AU2013204504A1

AU2013204504A1 - A Location Specific Application And System

Info

Publication number: AU2013204504A1
Application number: AU2013204504A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Reg Zegers
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-04-12
Filing date: 2013-04-12
Publication date: 2014-10-30

Abstract

The system and application of the present invention preferably provides an interface between the subscriber members and the business members by allowing the business members to be easily identified geographically and by category to a subscriber member. ------

Description

A LOCATION SPECIFIC APPLICATION AND SYSTEM TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to a location specific application and system. BACKGROUND ART [0002] A mobile application (or mobile app) is a software application designed to run on smartphones, tablet computers and other mobile devices. They are usually available through application distribution platforms, which are typically operated by the owner of the mobile operating system, such as the Apple App Store, Google Play, Windows Phone Store and BlackBerry App World. Some apps are free, while others have a price. Usually, they are downloaded from the platform to a target device, such as an iPhone, BlackBerry, Android phone or Windows Phone, but sometimes they can be downloaded to less mobile computers, such as laptops or desktops. [0003] The term "app" has become popular, and in 2010 was listed as "Word of the Year" by the American Dialect Society. Technologist Michael Saylor has referred to the newer mobile app enabled smartphones as "app-phones" for their distinction from the earlier smartphone models. He states that these app-phones can support many applications and programming languages and should be considered computers first and phones second. [0004] Mobile apps were originally offered for general productivity and information retrieval, including email, calendar, contacts, and stock market and weather information. However, public demand and the availability of developer tools drove rapid expansion into other categories, such as mobile games, factory automation, GPS and location-based services, banking, order-tracking, and ticket purchases. The explosion in number and variety of apps made discovery a challenge, which in turn led to the creation of a wide range of review, recommendation, and curation sources, including blogs, magazines, and dedicated online app discovery services. [0005] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country. SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0006] The present invention is directed to a location specific application and system, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice. [00071 With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a computer implemented location specific software application for operation on a mobile computing device having at least a processor with accessible memory, a display, and at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time, the application including access to at least one business member database including a unique entry for each business member having at least name details, location details, a category of goods or services offered by each respective business member and display rules for display of the unique entry of the business member and at least one subscriber member database including a unique entry for each subscriber member including identification of each subscriber member to identify each subscriber member and a subscriber member mobile computing device to the system, the application accepting input from the at least one input apparatus and producing and displaying an image on the display based on input and current location of the mobile computing device obtained from the accessible positioning system, such that the processor and memory of the mobile communications device stores and processes instructions which when executed by the processor, causes the processor to perform method steps including obtaining a location of the mobile computing device, searching the business member database to locate business member location details nearby to the obtained location, identifying a list of business members nearby to the obtained location based on the search, and preparing and displaying a results display image on the mobile computing device display including a map of the location of the mobile computing device with nearby business members identified thereon identifying each nearby business member geographically on the displayed map with an icon representative of the category of goods or services offered by the business members with each icon being a portal to a corresponding unique entry of the business member to be displayed on the display of the mobile computing device upon selecting of the icon represented on the displayed image. [0008] According to an alternative embodiment, the present invention resides in a location specific directory system including a mobile computing device having at least a processor with accessible memory, a display, at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time, and having access to at least one business member database including a unique entry for each business member having at least name details, location details, a category of goods or services offered by each respective business member and display rules for display of the unique entry of the business member and at least one subscriber member database including a unique entry for each subscriber member including identification of each subscriber member to identify each subscriber member and a subscriber member mobile computing device to the system, the mobile computing device accepting input from the at least one input apparatus and producing and displaying an image on the display based on input and current location of the mobile computing device obtained from the accessible positioning system, such that the processor and memory of the mobile communications device stores and processes instructions which when executed by the processor, causes the processor to perform method steps including obtaining a location of the mobile computing device, searching the business member database to locate business member location details nearby to the obtained location, identifying a list of business members nearby to the obtained location based on the search, preparing and displaying a results display image on the mobile computing device display including a map of the location of the mobile computing device with nearby business members identified thereon identifying each nearby business member geographically on the displayed map with an icon representative of the category of goods or services offered by the business members with each icon being a portal to a corresponding unique entry of the business member to be displayed on the display of the mobile computing device upon selecting of the icon represented on the displayed image. [0009] According to a further alternative embodiment, the present invention resides in a location specific directory method performed by a mobile computing device, the mobile computing device having at least a processor with accessible memory, a display, at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time, and having access to at least one business member database including a unique entry for each business member having at least name details, location details, a category of goods or services offered by each respective business member and display rules for display of the unique entry of the business member and at least one subscriber member database including a unique entry for each subscriber member including identification of each subscriber member to identify each subscriber member and a subscriber member mobile computing device to the system, the mobile computing device accepting input from the at least one input apparatus and producing and displaying an image on the display based on input and current location of the mobile computing device obtained from the accessible positioning system, such that the processor and memory of the mobile communications device stores and processes instructions which when executed by the processor, causes the processor to perform method steps including obtaining a location of the mobile computing device, searching the business member database to locate business member location details nearby to the obtained location, identifying a list of business members nearby to the obtained location based on the search, preparing and displaying a results display image on the mobile computing device display including a map of the location of the mobile computing -t device with nearby business members identified thereon identifying each nearby business member geographically on the displayed map with an icon representative of the category of goods or services offered by the business members with each icon being a portal to a corresponding unique entry of the business member to be displayed on the display of the mobile computing device upon selecting of the icon represented on the displayed image. [0010] According to still a further alternative embodiment, the present invention resides in a mobile computing device with location specific directory application, the mobile computing device having at least a processor with accessible memory, a display, at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time, and having access to at least one business member database including a unique entry for each business member having at least name details, location details, a category of goods or services offered by each respective business member and display rules for display of the unique entry of the business member and at least one subscriber member database including a unique entry for each subscriber member including identification of each subscriber member to identify each subscriber member and a subscriber member mobile computing device to the system, the mobile computing device accepting input from the at least one input apparatus and producing and displaying an image on the display based on input and current location of the mobile computing device obtained from the accessible positioning system, such that the processor and memory of the mobile communications device stores and processes instructions which when executed by the processor, causes the processor to perform method steps including obtaining a location of the mobile computing device, searching the business member database to locate business member location details nearby to the obtained location, identifying a list of business members nearby to the obtained location based on the search, preparing and displaying a results display image on the mobile computing device display including a map of the location of the mobile computing device with nearby business members identified thereon identifying each nearby business member geographically on the displayed map with an icon representative of the category of goods or services offered by the business members with each icon being a portal to a corresponding unique entry of the business member to be displayed on the display of the mobile computing device upon selecting of the icon represented on the displayed image. [0011] The location specific directory application of the present invention is preferably a software application designed to run on smartphones, tablet computers and another mobile device. The application of the present invention will preferably be available through an application distribution platform, which is typically operated by the owner of the mobile operating system, such as the Apple App Store, Google Play, Windows Phone Store and BlackBerry App World. The application of the present invention will normally be downloaded from the platform to a target mobile device. [0012] Preferably, the application is provided to operate on a mobile computing device with appropriate connections through the mobile computing device to a remote computer server or network of computers or servers in order to gain additional information to that present on the mobile computing device. The additional information may be obtained from the remote computer, server or network and by push notification from the remote computer, server or network to the mobile computing device or upon request from the mobile computing device. [0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention will preferably have a number of parties associated with the system with a party falling into one or more general types. The preferred types of parties associated with the system include a system administrator (which can be one or more people in one or more locations) business members and subscriber members. [0014] Preferably, the business members are members of the system who use the application and system of the present invention to raise their business profile to one or more of the subscriber members. [0015] The subscriber members are typically customers that the business members wish to attract to their business. [0016] The system and application of the present invention preferably provides an interface between the subscriber members and the business members by allowing the business members to be easily identified geographically and by category to a subscriber member. [00171 The system administrator is typically responsible for maintenance of the interface between the subscriber members and business members as well is providing and controlling access to the system for subscriber members and business members. [0018] As mentioned above, the mobile computing device can be any type however, it is typically a smart phone, computer tablet or other portable device having at least one communication pathway in order to communicate with the remote computer, server or network as well as the preferred location or positioning system in order to geographically locate the mobile computing device upon which the application is operating. [0019] Business members of the system of the present invention will normally subscribe to be a member, normally at a cost. The cost can be levied over any period but normally, a subscription fee will be calculated on a monthly basis. Normally, upon subscription to the system, the business member will be provided with a web browser-based content management system in order to create and/or update a business member profile. The business member profile will typically contain certain types of information relating to the business member for example including the business name, business address, the types of goods or services offered by the business, contact numbers or addresses such as instant message address, Skype address, Internet address, telephone numbers, fax numbers, email addresses and the like in order to provide as many different mechanisms for a subscriber member to contact the business member if and when they desire to. [0020] Using the provided web browser-based content management system, the business member may design a business member profile page in order to have a profile page ready to be displayed to a subscriber member if the subscriber member requests the page. Normally, information pertaining to the business member will be entered by the business member into an electronic template or form with certain fields indicating required information as opposed to information which may be optional. Normally, entry of information into a template and not directly into the profile page is preferred. Normally, the fillable template will be provided by the system administrator and the profile page will normally be generated or created by the system administrator utilising the information entered into the template as this will typically allow the system administrator to ensure that respective business member profile pages are consistent or relatively uniform in appearance so that subscriber members are familiar with the format of the profile page when it is presented to them. However, an expanded suite of design capabilities may be provided to a business member. Alternatively, a business member may select from one or more profile page template for use by them. There will normally be some bespoke aspects to the business member profile page allowed to the business member such as colours, trademarks, specific deals or offers which may be provided by the business member for addition to the profile page. [0021] Under normal circumstances, the business member will provide information for creation of the profile page by the system administrator which is then stored in the business member database and thereafter, the business member maintains the profile page through communication with the system administrator. However, the maintenance of the profile page may be direct provided that this is authorised by the system administrator. Normally, the profile pages are saved in the business member database located on the remote computer, server or network which is accessed or in communication with the mobile computing device for transmission and display of the profile page as required by the subscriber member. Importantly, the profile page normally includes one or more executable request buttons or areas (normally virtual buttons identified by a particular area on the profile page and which can be actuated by a subscriber member) to connect to the subscriber member to the business member at least by telephone but potentially using other communications pathways as well or in the alternative to the telephone. [0022] Each subscriber member will also preferably create or have created for them, a unique profile. Normally, the system administrator will create the subscriber member profile. Typically, the process is started when a potential subscriber member submits a request for membership to the system to the system administrator and provides information necessary for the identification of the subscriber member and also the subscriber member's particular mobile computing device, to the remote computer, server or network. Normally, there will be no cost to the subscriber member for membership to the system. There may be some scope within the system for use by subscribers on a one-off basis as opposed to periodic membership. [0023] Creation of the subscriber member profile will typically occur during setup phase after the subscriber member has downloaded the software application from an appropriate source which will be either the system administrator all another application provider such as those mentioned above. [0024] The subscriber member will normally download the application to their mobile computing device. The download of the application will normally include appropriate instructions to be stored in the memory of the mobile computing device in order to create and maintain links and associations with the remote computer, server or network in order to communicate with the databases stored thereon. [0025] The mobile computing device preferred for use in the present invention includes a processor with on-board memory, a display, at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time. Normally, the display will be a touchscreen as many mobile computing devices currently available have this feature. The advantages of the touchscreen include allowing a larger display and also allowing the display to function as a part of the input apparatus. [0026] The at least one input apparatus therefore will typically be formed or displayed on the display of the mobile computing device as required. The at least one input apparatus will normally take the form of a virtual keyboard including letters of the alphabet, numbers and/or symbols as well as one or more action icons to allow a user to implement action on the mobile computing device. [0027] The at least one input apparatus may include a combination of a virtual keyboard generated and displayed on the display of the mobile computing device and other action buttons provided on the mobile computing device itself as opposed to on the display. [0028] Typically, a portion of the image displayed on the display of the mobile computing device will be provided as visual feedback reflecting the input provided by the user of the mobile computing device. [0029] The mobile computing device also preferably has an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time. This accessible positioning system will normally include one or more hardware modules provided in the mobile computing device in order to access will be recognised by a second portion of a positioning system. Normally, a receiver to receive messages from a number of satellites is included in the mobile computing device and the receiver, together with the processor in instructions stored in the memory of the mobile computing device allow the receiver to use the messages received to calculate the position mobile computing device. The Global Positioning System (GPS) is perhaps the best known and most widely used commercially available positioning system and may be used according to the present invention. [0030] The mobile computing device normally provides access to one or more communications pathways in order to communicate with the remote computer, server or network in order to access at least the business member database. The subscriber member database may be communicated with by the mobile computing device or the application to ensure that the mobile computing device requesting data from the remote computer, server or network or to which data is to be sent, use a mobile computing device of a subscriber member of the system. This functionality is normally accomplished through a login facility in which the subscriber member uses the mobile computing device to log into the system. [0031] The login process may use login details that the subscriber member has developed for another application or use. For example, the subscriber member may use a Facebook or Twitter account login or similar or alternatively login details for an email system such as Gmail or Hotmail in order to access the system of the present invention. Normally, details of the subscriber member login will be stored in the subscriber member profile in the at least one subscriber member database and as a login request is received, the remote computer, server or network will typically ensure that the login details supplied match those of a subscriber member before allowing access to the system and the databases on the system.

[00321 Normally, a login prompt is produced and displayed as a displayed image on the display of the mobile computing device and including at least one action button. This will normally allow input or selection of the desired login information into an input template and which also prompts input of the login information provided by action in the form of a submission to the remote computer, server or network. This will normally be a two-part process in which the subscriber member will normally select the desired login type if permitted followed by entry of the subscriber member's particular identification information and password followed by the submission step. Upon submission, the entered details will be sent to the remote computer, server or network for authorisation. [0033] Therefore, the mobile computing device is typically used to create a login request which is then sent via a communications pathway to the remote computer, server or network were upon the system of the present invention checks the subscriber member database for a match and allows access to the system if the match occurs and denies access to the system is matched is not occur. [0034] Upon the subscriber member being granted access to the system following login, a number of actions typically occur. These actions include (a) determination of the location of the mobile computing device using the positioning system; (b) accessing the subscriber member profile which matches the login details and pushing the subscriber member profile information to the mobile computing device in order to load any stored preferences of the subscriber member into the application for use by the subscriber member on the mobile computing device; and (c) using the determined location of the mobile computing device as a parameter of the search conducted of the business member database for business members in the geographical area in which the mobile computing device is positioned. [0035] Clearly step (a) above must occur before step (c) can occur but step (b) may occur contemporaneously with either step (a) or step (c), before or after either one or more of these steps. Generally, all three steps are undertaken before the production of a results display image on the mobile computing device display. [0036] Initially, the search of the business member database for business members located in the nearby area to the determined location of the mobile computing device will be limited to a predetermined search and radius surrounding the mobile computing device. This initial search IV radius can be set or adjusted by the subscriber member or the system administrator. The predetermined an initial search radius can be 1 km although larger distances such as 3 km, 5 km or 10 km can be used depending upon the preset parameter. [00371 Once the search of the business member database has been completed and matching business members identified, the application will then typically use the processor of the mobile computing device and the display of the mobile computing device to create a display a results display image. [00381 The results display image is preferably based upon a map of the particular locality. The map can be obtained from a third-party or may be generated by the application or the remote computer, server or network. Normally, the mobile computing device will be located approximately centrally on the map in the results display image which is created and displayed. [0039] The map can take any form. For example, the map can be a schematic view, a symbolic view or a more realistic representation based on photography for example. Any combination of these views may be used and it is preferred that the option be given to the subscriber member to select a default representation for the map to be generated and also to change the default representation as desired. Normally, the map will be presented as a street map with other geographic features shown thereon as well. Where presented as a more realistic representation, this is typically based on satellite or aerial images in order to give the more realistic view of the location. Further, a "street view" may be available in addition or alternative to the street map, satellite or aerial image in order to assist with a subscriber member identifying the location of a particular business member. [0040] Preferably, the results display image is generated and displayed including one or more icons indicating the location and relative location of the business members in the nearby area on the generated and displayed image together with the type or category of respective business member indicated by each of the one or more icons. Normally, the icons will be illustrated as an overlay on the map and indicate the particular location of the business members. The icons will normally be category specific with a particular icon used for each business member in a particular category and all business members in a particular category identified using the same icon although in different locations depending upon the location of the business member. In other words, an icon is used to pictorially illustrate the position of the business member relative to the mobile computing device as well as the particular category which the business member has been allocated by either the business member or the system administrator.

1[ 1 [00411 Possible categories which may be used include banks or automatic teller machines, petrol stations, parking stations, food and drinks (which may be further divided into subcategories such as pubs or taverns, restaurants, cafes, fast food, supermarkets or other), entertainment (which may be further divided into subcategories such as movies, theme parks, theatres, outdoor recreation, clubs or other), accommodation or real estate (which may be further divided into subcategories such as hotels, motels or hostels, resorts, caravan parks, bed-and breakfast's, real estate agents, aged care facilities or other), defence (which may be further divided into subcategories such as Army, air force, navy or suppliers), transport or vehicles (which may be further divided into subcategories such as taxis, rental cars, flights, trains, bus charters, car sales, or other), medical (which may be further divided into subcategories such as medical clinics, hospitals, pharmacies, veterinary care, or other), trades and services (which may be further divided into subcategories such as mechanics, builders, plumbers, locksmiths, electricians, Handyman services or other), retail stores (which may be further divided into subcategories such as ladies fashion, men's fashion, sports, footwear or other), mining and suppliers, or finance (which may be further divided into subcategories such as home loans, short term loans, pawnbrokers or other). [0042] Normally a specific icon will be designated for each category and/or subcategory with the particular icon chosen to represent visually the category or subcategory in relation to which the icon is used. [00431 Preferably, the generated and displayed nearby results display image is the default view presented to a subscriber member upon login. [0044] One or more filters can be applied by the subscriber member once the nearby image has been generated and displayed in order to change or adapt the generated and displayed image according to the desires of the subscriber member. For example, the filters may include the ability to filter business members by category or subcategory, filter by distance from the mobile computing device and/or filter by review results, popularity, quality or any other parameter which may be useful to the subscriber member. Any combination of filters can be used or applied either sequentially or concurrently. [0045] It is also preferred that each subscriber member have a "favourites" filter in that the subscriber member can designate a particular business member as being a favourite supplier and this designation is then saved into the particular subscriber member profile for loading at each use of the application upon login.

[00461 Further, search capabilities may be provided in the application of the present invention. A search initiation virtual but will normally be provided on each generated and displayed results image allowing input of search parameters or terms by the subscriber member. Once search premises or terms have been provided by the subscriber member, a request for the search will normally be pushed to the remote computer, server or network whereupon the search is conducted of the at least one business member database and the results pushed to the mobile computing device again for generation and display of a results image according to the results returned. [00471 The generated and displayed results image may include a list of the business members in the nearby locality. This list may be hidden visible or capable of both upon the user's preference. [0048] Scrolling capabilities may be provided within the generated and displayed results image and/or in the list. It is particularly preferred that the subscriber member will be allowed to move the focus of the map image upon which the business members are identified. Movement by the subscriber member may prompt a new image to be generated and displayed based on information requested from the remote computer, server or network which corresponds to the movement of the map or image by the subscriber member. [0049] Normally, a category filter bar is included in the generated and displayed results image. It is preferred that the category filter bar is provided extending laterally across the image. Normally the category filter bar will be provided in the form of a list identifying the particular categories and/or subcategories in order for the user to scroll through the list and select the category or subcategory desired. [0050] Vertical scrolling may be provided through the list of business members in a category or subcategory. Normally, access to each of the lists provided will be as a result of the subscriber member tapping or otherwise scrolling through the list in order to produce a particular result required by the subscriber member. Once the subscriber member has located the business member of choice, a business member profile page is typically generated on the display of the mobile computing device upon selection, normally by tapping or similar action, by the subscriber member. [0051] Further, it is preferred that a menu bar is generated and displayed as a part of the results image with selection buttons provided for navigation and selection of action items located on the generated in displayed image.

[00521 Resizing of portions of the generated in displayed results image is typically possible through touch and drag functionality or similar. This may allow resizing of portions of the generated in displayed image such as for example the map portion of the image or the list portion of the image for easy viewing by the subscriber member. [0053] Still further, it is preferred that a search bar is provided to allow the subscriber member to perform searches. Activation of the search functionality properly produces an image of a virtual keyboard as discussed above for the entry of one or more search parameters thereinto. The subscriber member can submit search requests which the application using the communications links provided to the mobile computing device transmits to the remote computer, server or network to search for matches to the one or more search parameters will stop upon completion of the search, one or more results, if any, are returned to the application and the mobile computing device for generation in display of a results image again with matching business members identified using icons positioned relative to a map or similar. [0054] It is preferred that the subscriber member can view the categories or subcategories and this will preferably list any available category with drill down possible through the categories into subcategories as desired. Again, upon selection of a particular category or subcategory, and image may be generated and displayed on the mobile computing device display including the results. [0055] Normally, where results are returned, the results are displayed on the map and other icons which do not match the search results are removed from the map. [0056] A favourites selection may be possible by the subscriber member. Again, this may identify the favourites of the subscriber member on the results image and remove other icons. The favourites selection may generate an display a results image of all favourites in a particular locality or alternatively may filter the results by category and/or location, preferably both. [00571 Once a business member has been identified and selected by a subscriber member, a business member profile page is typically generated based on the business member profile page stored in the business member profile in the at least one business member database. Each business member profile page will normally include a title bar which features navigation tools, the business name and a link to the subscriber member notification area, a cover banner and profile photo or image for branding purposes, a link to review events available for the business member, a link to view system administrator deals in relation to this business member or any other one or more business members, an action button to be connected directly to the business 1 -r member as well as category information, business schedules, rating information by other subscriber members, contact details, any social media accounts that the business member may have and additional information about the business member. One of the additional pieces of information which may be provided he is an address and/or map for the location including preferably directions to the business member location, a photo gallery to add photos relating to the business member any deal information for promotions and the business members calendar of events. [00581 Still further, the business member page may include further action button to allow the subscriber member to view special deals and/or events relating to this business member either in a list format or preferably, in the form of a calendar through which navigation is possible to see current, past and preferably future events. [0059] Literally, all produced and displayed results pages have a subscriber member notification link with an indicator showing a number of new or unreviewed notifications which are typically provided to the particular subscriber member using a push methodology. In particular, one or more business members and/or system administrator may be capable of creating and issuing push notifications to be sent to any one or more subscriber members in relation to special promotions and/events occurring in relation to any one or more of the business members. Once the notification link is selected for view, a results list of notifications will typically be produced and displayed allowing a subscriber member to view particular notifications as desired. Once notification has been viewed, the notification is typically retained, but the indicator showing the number of new or unreviewed notifications will typically be adjusted to reflect only unreviewed or new notifications. [0060] The notifications can be presented in any format and may be provided in different categories themselves allowing navigation through any new or old notifications. [0061] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention. [0062] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [00631 Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows: [0064] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a top level of an application hierarchy map according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0065] Figure 2A is a schematic illustration of the portion identified in the hierarchy map illustrated in Figure 1 using reference letter A. [0066] Figure 2B is a schematic illustration of the portion identified in the hierarchy map illustrated in Figure 1 using reference letter B. [00671 Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of a splash screen produced and displayed upon initiation of the application according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0068] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a welcome screen produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0069] Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of a "nearby" in default mode screen produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [00701 Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of a nearby screen - navigating categories produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [00711 Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of a nearby screen - vertical scroll produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0072] Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of a search bar screen produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0073] Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of a categories screen produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0074] Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of a categories screen with drill down data produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [00751 Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of a favourites screen produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[00761 Figure 12 is a schematic illustration of a settings screen produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [00771 Figure 13 is a schematic illustration of a business page screen produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0078] Figure 14 is a schematic illustration of a business page screen with address, map and photos produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [00791 Figure 15 is a schematic illustration of a business page screen with deals and events produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0080] Figure 16 is a schematic illustration of a business page screen with calendar of events produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0081] Figure 17 is a schematic illustration of a deal notification screen produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [0082] Figure 18 is a schematic illustration of an upcoming events notification screen produced and displayed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS [0083] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, a location specific application and implementation device is provided. [0084] The location specific directory system of the preferred embodiment includes a mobile computing device having at least a processor with accessible memory, a display, at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time, and having access to at least one business member database including a unique entry for each business member having at least name details, location details, a category of goods or services offered by each respective business member and display rules for display of the unique entry of the business member and at least one subscriber member database including a unique entry for each subscriber member including identification of each subscriber member to identify each subscriber member and a subscriber member mobile computing device to the system, the mobile computing device accepting input from the at least one input apparatus and producing and displaying an image on the display based on input and current location of the mobile computing device obtained from the accessible positioning system, such that the processor and memory of the mobile communications device stores and processes instructions which when executed by the I / processor, causes the processor to perform method steps including obtaining a location of the mobile computing device, searching the business member database to locate business member location details nearby to the obtained location, identifying a list of business members nearby to the obtained location based on the search, preparing and displaying a results display image on the mobile computing device display including a map of the location of the mobile computing device with nearby business members identified thereon identifying each nearby business member geographically on the displayed map with an icon representative of the category of goods or services offered by the business members with each icon being a portal to a corresponding unique entry of the business member to be displayed on the display of the mobile computing device upon selecting of the icon represented on the displayed image. [0085] The location specific directory application of the present invention is provided as a software application designed to run on smartphones, tablet computers and another mobile device. The application of the present invention will preferably be available through an application distribution platform, which is typically operated by the owner of the mobile operating system, such as the Apple App Store, Google Play, Windows Phone Store and BlackBerry App World. The application of the present invention will normally be downloaded from the platform to a target mobile device. [0086] Preferably, the application is provided to operate on a mobile computing device with appropriate connections through the mobile computing device to a remote computer server or network of computers or servers in order to gain additional information to that present on the mobile computing device. The additional information may be obtained from the remote computer, server or network and by push notification from the remote computer, server or network to the mobile computing device or upon request from the mobile computing device. [00871 The application of the preferred embodiment is provided according to the hierarchy maps illustrated in Figures 1, 2A and 2B. [0088] The subscriber member will normally download the application to their mobile computing device, which in most cases will be a smartphone or tablet device. The download of the application includes appropriate instructions to be stored in the memory of the smartphone or tablet in order to create and maintain links and associations with the remote computer, server or network in order to communicate with the databases stored thereon. [0089] The smartphone or tablet will normally include a processor with on-board memory, a display, at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially 10 in real time. Normally, the display will be a touchscreen as many smartphone and tablets currently available have this feature. The advantages of the touchscreen include allowing a larger display and also allowing the display to function as a part of the input apparatus. [0090] The input apparatus therefore is normally formed or displayed on the display of the mobile computing device as required. The input apparatus will normally take the form of a virtual keyboard including letters of the alphabet, numbers and/or symbols as well as one or more action icons to allow a user to implement action on the smartphone or tablet. [0091] The input apparatus may include a combination of a virtual keyboard generated and displayed on the display of the mobile computing device and other action buttons provided on the smartphone or tablet itself as opposed to on the display. [0092] Typically, a portion of the image displayed on the display of the smartphone or tablet is provided as visual feedback reflecting the input provided by the user of the mobile computing device. [0093] The smartphone or tablet also preferably has an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time. This accessible positioning system will normally include one or more hardware modules provided in the mobile computing device in order to access will be recognised by a second portion of a positioning system. Normally, a receiver to receive messages from a number of satellites is included in the mobile computing device and the receiver, together with the processor in instructions stored in the memory of the mobile computing device allow the receiver to use the messages received to calculate the position mobile computing device. The Global Positioning System (GPS) is perhaps the best known and most widely used commercially available positioning system and may be used according to the present invention. [0094] The smartphone or tablet normally provides access to one or more communications pathways in order to communicate with the remote computer, server or network in order to access at least the business member database. The subscriber member database may be communicated with by the smartphone or tablet or the application to ensure that the mobile computing device requesting data from the remote computer, server or network or to which data is to be sent, is a smartphone or tablet of a subscriber member of the system. This functionality is normally accomplished through a login facility in which the subscriber member uses a portion of the application and the smartphone or tablet to log into the system. [0095] The login process may I[9/ [00961 As illustrated in Figure 3, a splash screen is produced and displayed when the application is opened. A login prompt is produced and displayed as a displayed image on the display of the mobile computing device including at least one action button. The preferred login prompt illustrated in Figure 4 allows a user to use login details that the subscriber member has developed for another application or use. For example, the subscriber member may use a Facebook or Twitter account login or similar in order to access the system of the present invention. Normally, details of the subscriber member login will be stored in the subscriber member profile in the at least one subscriber member database and as a login request is received, the remote computer, server or network will typically ensure that the login details supplied match those of a subscriber member before allowing access to the system and the databases on the system. [00971 Once a user selects which of the Facebook or Twitter account logins that they wish to use, a login screen allowing input or selection of the desired login information into an input template and which also prompts input of the login information provided by action in the form of a submission to the remote computer, server or network. This will normally be a two-part process in which the subscriber member will normally select the desired login type if permitted followed by entry of the subscriber member's particular identification information and password followed by the submission step. Upon submission, the entered details will be sent to the remote computer, server or network for authorisation. [0098] Therefore, the smartphone or tablet creates a login request which is then sent via a communications pathway to the remote computer, server or network were upon the system of the present invention checks the subscriber member database for a match and allows access to the system if the match occurs and denies access to the system is matched is not occur. [0099] Upon the subscriber member being granted access to the system following login, a number of actions typically occur. These actions include: (d) determination of the location of the smartphone or tablet using the positioning system; (e) accessing the subscriber member profile which matches the login details and pushing the subscriber member profile information to the smartphone or tablet in order to load any stored preferences of the subscriber member into the application for use by the subscriber member on the smartphone or tablet; and (f) using the determined location of the smartphone or tablet as a parameter of the search conducted of the business member database for business members in the geographical area in which the smartphone or tablet is positioned.

[0100] Clearly step (a) above must occur before step (c) can occur but step (b) may occur contemporaneously with either step (a) or step (c), before or after either one or more of these steps. Generally, all three steps are undertaken before the production of a "Nearby" results display image on the smartphone or tablet display. [0101] Initially, the search of the business member database for business members located in the nearby area to the determined location of the smartphone or tablet is limited to a predetermined search radius surrounding the smartphone or tablet. This initial search radius can be set or adjusted by the subscriber member or the system administrator. The predetermined an initial search radius can be 1 km although larger distances such as 3 km, 5 km or 10 km can be used depending upon the preset parameter. [0102] Once the search of the business member database has been completed and matching business members identified, the application will then use the processor of the smartphone or tablet and the display of the smartphone or tablet to create a display a "Nearby" results display image. [01031 The "Nearby" results display image is preferably based upon a map of the particular locality. The map can be obtained from a third-party or may be generated by the application or the remote computer, server or network. Normally, the mobile computing device will be located approximately centrally on the map in the "Nearby" results display image which is created and displayed. [0104] The map can take any form and in the illustrated embodiment, the map is presented as a street map with other geographic features shown thereon as well as illustrated in Figure 5. [0105] The "Nearby" results display image as illustrated in Figure 5 is generated and displayed including one or more icons indicating the location and relative location of the business members in the nearby area on the generated and displayed image together with the type or category of respective business member indicated by each of the one or more icons. [0106] The icons are illustrated as an overlay on the map and indicate the particular location of the business members. The icons are category specific with a particular icon used for each business member in a particular category and all business members in a particular category identified using the same icon although in different locations depending upon the location of the business member. In other words, an icon is used to pictorially illustrate the position of the business member relative to the mobile computing device as well as the particular category which the business member has been allocated by either the business member or the system administrator. [01071 The preferred embodiment includes categories as follows: " banks or automatic teller machines, e petrol stations, e parking stations, " food and drinks (which may be further divided into subcategories such as pubs or taverns, restaurants, cafes, fast food, supermarkets or other), e entertainment (which may be further divided into subcategories such as movies, theme parks, theatres, outdoor recreation, clubs or other), e accommodation or real estate (which may be further divided into subcategories such as hotels, motels or hostels, resorts, caravan parks, bed-and-breakfasts, real estate agents, aged care facilities or other), e defence (which may be further divided into subcategories such as Army, air force, navy or suppliers), " transport or vehicles (which may be further divided into subcategories such as taxis, rental cars, flights, trains, bus charters, car sales, or other), " medical (which may be further divided into subcategories such as medical clinics, hospitals, pharmacies, veterinary care, or other), " trades and services (which may be further divided into subcategories such as mechanics, builders, plumbers, locksmiths, electricians, Handyman services or other), " retail stores (which may be further divided into subcategories such as ladies fashion, men's fashion, sports, footwear or other), or " finance (which may be further divided into subcategories such as home loans, short-term loans, pawnbrokers or other). [01081 Normally a specific icon will be designated for each category and/or subcategory with the particular icon chosen to represent visually the category or subcategory in relation to which the icon is used. [0109] Preferably, the generated and displayed nearby results display image as illustrated in Figure 5 is the default view presented to a subscriber member upon login. This screen features a map with all of the nearby establishment plotted on the map and giving the user an idea of the businesses distance from the current location. It also includes a search field above the map and below it, features a slidable category navigation and the corresponding list of nearby businesses.

The list of nearby businesses corresponds to the pins plotted on the map which are represented by icons. A main menu bottom bar appears across the bottom of the screen and is the applications main navigation which is present on all screens with links to the Nearby, Categories, Favourites and settings pages. The user can input information into the search field in order to search the applications directory data. Navigation on this page is by touch and drag. A number of action buttons are present on this page including each of the icons illustrated in the map as well as each of the entries in the list as well as any menu bars. [0110] As illustrated in Figure 6, as a supplement to the map with icons illustrating locations, list below the map is provided to provide a linear description of the establishments. The items in the listing are listed according to their proximity to the user with the nearest establishment appearing at the top of the list. Due to the wide number of business categories, a slidable horizontal navigation is also provided. By default, the items are all in you rated under "All Categories" on the leftmost as illustrated in Figure 5. If a user wishes to narrow down list to a particular category, they can do so by sliding the category menu as illustrated in Figure 6. The user can slide/fling the menu to the left to reveal the rest of the sections. They can then select from any of the menu items to narrow down nearby items. In the case illustrated in Figure 6, the user is viewing nearby businesses in the accommodation category. The map will also automatically limit the icons illustrated on the map to those that pertain to the current selection of the user. Each list item included in the list would preferably include a photo or logo of the business, category icon illustrating the category of the business, the business name, a pin or icons stating the distance of the establishment from the user's current location, the exact address of the establishment and typically an arrow or similar feature that would link the item to its main business profile page. [0111] As illustrated in Figure 7, a further navigation tool is provided on the nearby screen with the option to vertically scroll through the list in order to see more of the items on the list. The horizontal bar on top of the categories, apart from serving as a label holder for the title of the page, also serves as a control bar that allows movement of the bar up and down for navigation. The control bar can be dragged to a desired location on the screen in order to enlarge or reduce the size of the list. When the control bar is in position, the items within the list can be scrolled vertically in order to reveal more items on the list. By default, the control bar is typically at the centre of the screen with the map above. If the user comes from another area of the application in returns to this page, the control bar defaults to the central position. [0112] As illustrated in Figure 8, the three main pages viewed by user, namely the Nearby page, the categories page and the Favourites page all feature a search bar on the top of the generated and displayed image. If selected, the devices generic soft keyboard panel is displayed and this allows the user to enter a query into the search bar. Upon typing, the application will autosearch and display results relevant to the user's search. The user can then select any of the result items generated by the Or tap on "search" at the bottom right corner of the generated and displayed image to finalise the list and make further selections from that point. Depending upon where the user chose to utilise the search bar, the results would normally appear in a default appearance. That is if the search is initiated from the Nearby page, the default results would be as a map and a list below, if utilised from the category screen, then the default view would be as a category with items beneath inner list and if utilised from the Favourite screen, a simple list item would be provided. [01131 Business members of the system of the present invention will normally subscribe to be a member, normally at a cost. The cost can be levied over any period but normally, a subscription fee will be calculated on a monthly basis. Normally, upon subscription to the system, the business member will be provided with a web browser-based content management system in order to create and/or update a business member profile. The business member profile will typically contain certain types of information relating to the business member for example including the business name, business address, the types of goods or services offered by the business, contact numbers or addresses such as instant message address, Skype address, Internet address, telephone numbers, fax numbers, email addresses and the like in order to provide as many different mechanisms for a subscriber member to contact the business member if and when they desire to. [0114] Using the provided web browser-based content management system, the business member may design a business member profile page in order to have a profile page ready to be displayed to a subscriber member if the subscriber member requests the page. Normally, information pertaining to the business member will be entered by the business member into an electronic template or form with certain fields indicating required information as opposed to information which may be optional. Normally, entry of information into a template and not directly into the profile page is preferred. Normally, the fillable template will be provided by the system administrator and the profile page will normally be generated or created by the system administrator utilising the information entered into the template as this will typically allow the system administrator to ensure that respective business member profile pages are consistent or relatively uniform in appearance so that subscriber members are familiar with the format of the profile page when it is presented to them. However, an expanded suite of design capabilities may be provided to a business member. Alternatively, a business member may select from one or more profile page template for use by them. There will normally be some bespoke aspects to the business member profile page allowed to the business member such as colours, trademarks, specific deals or offers which may be provided by the business member for addition to the profile page. [0115] Utilising the content management system provided to the business members, a business member is able to add keywords to their profile which are then searchable by subscriber members. [0116] As illustrated in Figure 9, all business members within the application are classified under a predefined list of categories. Each first level category is assigned a particular colour and icon for easy identification throughout the application. Each category may also have one or more sub levels for more specific classifications. Each of the items, when tapped, would open the next level. This is illustrated in Figure 10. [01171 When any of the categories are selected from the screen illustrated in Figure 9, a further screen is generated and displayed revealing more data for the chosen category. As illustrated in the screenshot Figure 10, the title of the categories given, a slidable subcategory menu is given beneath that and then a list of items within each of the subcategories produced below. As the subcategories changed by activation of each of the horizontal subcategory titles the appropriate items are generated and displayed in the list. By default, items are shown under "All" and users can then narrow down their search by tapping on any one of the subcategory titles. All categories would typically be listed in alphabetical order under the category section. Each item would also link to a business members corresponding profile page. [0118] As illustrated in Figure 11, each business member profile page provided within the application will have an icon such as a heart icon illustrated on a portion of the page. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 11, the heart icon is illustrated in the upper right comer of the business member profile page. The heart icon will enable users to add the particular business member profile page as a favourite which it therefore will allow the business member to push notifications in relation to any deals or events to the subscriber member. All favourite business members are typically listed on the Favourites section of the application as illustrated in Figure 11. The Favourites section of the application features a slidable menu that behaves much like the category slides of the other two main pages "Nearby and Categories). The main difference with the Favourites slidable menu is that all items listed within this section are limited to business members that have been marked by the user as a favourite. By default, all business items are listed according to the date the item was made a favourite. An edit button is also provided to allow the user to move/we arrange the favourites and also to remove business members from the favourites list according to their preference. [0119] Illustrated in Figure 12 is a setting screen which lists a number of general functions that a user can use to configure the application in order to maximise the use or preferences. The settings possible are the radius to be used for the Nearby search, whether notifications are allowed, a default login type and also contact information. This page will also preferably allow the user to log out from the application if they choose to switch user accounts. [0120] One form of a business member profile page is illustrated in Figure 13. The business member profile page is the final or lowest level of result that can be returned. Ultimately, the user will arrive at a business member profile page. All business members within the system of the present invention aha provided with a profile page and it features contact and other details for each business. In particular, each profile page will be provided with a title bar including a back button to return to the next level up, a business name and a notification section. The profile page will also include a banner and typically a profile photo from branding purposes. The profile page will also provide a link to view events which will be held by the business member and also a link to view deals provided to subscriber members from the particular business member. Importantly, an action button will be provided to allow a user to contact the business member directly via the telephone. The business member profile page will also typically include identification of the particular category into which the business fits, any business schedules as well as subscriber member ratings of the business based on their experiences with the business. [0121] In order to navigate on the business member profile page, a user can scrawl the page and down to view other sections provided within the profile page. A lower portion of the profile page illustrated in Figure 13 is illustrated in Figure 14. The other sections illustrated on this a lower portion include the address and map for the location of the business together with directions to the business, a photo gallery in order to allow the business member to adult logo or other images within the page, any deals for promotions and the business members calendar of events. Illustrated below the photo gallery in Figure 14 is a section for deals or promotions that the business member could add into the profile page using the content management system provided to them upon subscription. Users can choose to claim deals that would then be added directly to their notification section of the application either individually or fire the "claim all" button provided. [0122] A business profile page deals and events screenshot is illustrated in Figure 15. When the user taps on the deals but illustrated in Figure 14, the application would immediately scroll down to this section for viewing. The same would typically occur for the events section for the business member which would then give an overview of the upcoming business events. Each item would typically listed date, the event and a reminder but that would send the event to the user's notification section and could be set to notify the user on the exact date of the event. A further button is also provided in order to view the business calendar of the business member. [01231 A preferred embodiment of business calendar of a business member is illustrated in Figure 16. From the content management system, a business member could upload events in order to promote their products or services that could be included in a main calendar page as illustrated in Figure 16. Display of a calendar with event dates as provided in Figure 16 allows the user to tap a particular date in order to view details for the event on that selected day. Navigation is also provided in terms of years and months across the top of the calendar if the user chooses to view a business event in a particular month or date. [0124] As mentioned above, a notification section is provided which is typically consistent on all pages generated and displayed and preferably, is displayed in the upper right-hand comer of all of the pages. The notification section provides an indication of the number of notifications pending for a particular user. When a user marks a business member as a favourite, the user's favourite businesses can then list special deals will events which would then be pushed to the particular user smart phone or tablet and a notification badge (number within a red circle close bracket would then be displayed in order to let the user know of the new addition. Upon tapping the notification section button, the page illustrated in Figure 17 would preferably fly out showing a tabbed navigation for the particular deals and events. New items are typically identified on the upper half of the page and each item will also list the category of the business offering the deal, the business name, the title of the deal and a brief description of the deal available. [0125] If a user selects the upcoming events button from the navigation bar on the page illustrated in Figure 17, the upcoming events page is highlighted showing a listing of all of the events created by a user's favourite businesses. Both tabbed pages can be scrolled vertically to view more items in the list. Each event item typically details the category of the business, the name of the business, the date and time of the event, the title of the event, a brief description of the event, a reminder button in order to include the item within the user's calendar in order to allow for push reminders to be sent to the subscriber member via their smart phone or tablet and a button allowing removal of the item from the notification section. [01261 According to the preferred embodiment, the present invention will preferably have a L- I number of parties associated with the system with a party falling into one or more general types. The preferred types of parties associated with the system include a system administrator (which can be one or more people in one or more locations) business members and subscriber members. [01271 Preferably, the business members are members of the system who use the application and system of the present invention to raise their business profile to one or more of the subscriber members. The subscriber members are typically customers that the business members wish to attract to their business. [01281 The system and application of the present invention preferably provides an interface between the subscriber members and the business members by allowing the business members to be easily identified geographically and by category to a subscriber member. [0129] The system administrator is typically responsible for maintenance of the interface between the subscriber members and business members as well is providing and controlling access to the system for subscriber members and business members. [0130] An alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 19. In particular, the navigation screens are illustrated in Figure 19. The logo screen 10 can be tapped to advance to the login screen 11. The login screen 11 has the ability to either logging if an existing user of the system or to register if not an existing user of the system. Alternatively, the login screen provides the ability to login using a username and password used for access to social networking sites such as Facebook or Twitter. [0131] If the user is not an already registered user of the system, the user can tap the register icon on the login screen 11 which will load the registration screen 12. The registration screen of the preferred embodiment allows the user to take a photo of themselves through an icon provided to load with their profile as well as other information such as the user's full name, username, preferred password, confirmation of the preferred password and a contact email address. Once this information has been entered, then the user will tap the "Join" button which then takes them to the preferred home screen 13 once the registration is confirmed. [0132] If the user is a registered user, the user can tap the login function which takes the user to the login entry screen 14. This screen includes a preferred logo for the system as well as the ability for the user to enter their username and their password. If the user knows, and enters this information, the user can then enter the system by tapping the login button. If the user has forgotten their password the user can activate the "forgot password" screen 15. This allows the user to recover a lost or forgotten password and forward the password to an email address which -0U the user can enter on the "forgot password" screen 15. [01331 As mentioned above, the user can choose to login using an existing login and password used for another system. According to the embodiment illustrated, login using Facebook or Twitter information is possible. From the login screen 11, if the user chooses to login using their Facebook details, the system of the preferred invention will query the remote third-party Facebook server requesting those details and entry to the system of the present invention using those details. The system of the present invention will also request optional permissions which may be allowed or not according to the user preference. This is illustrated in the permissions screen 16. [0134] From the login screen 11, if the user chooses to login using their Twitter details, the system of the present invention will request authorisation for the system of the present invention to use the associated Twitter account with clarification as to what the system of the present invention will be able to do in relation to Twitter if the user agrees. This will also prompt entry of the username and password from the Twitter account. This is illustrated in the Twitter permissions screen 17. [01351 If the user successfully logs in via either Facebook or Twitter, they are directed towards the home screen 13. [01361 If the user chooses to take a photo when on the registration screen, a photo selection screen 18 will be generated allowing the user to take a photo or choose a photo from an album which may be present on the device upon which the system is operating or upon a remote device which is accessible by the system of the present invention. [01371 The home screen 13 has a scrollable list of categories 19. These categories are preferred categories at this stage and will likely also be extended to include Tourism and hospitality as a category. [01381 From the application home screen 13, the various portions of the system of the present invention can be accessed. For example, as illustrated in Figure 20, a side navigation facility can be accessed using an initiator icon in the top left-hand of the home screen. Tapping the initiator icon opens a side navigation screen 20. The side navigation screen includes various menu options which the user can use to access further portions of the system. As one example, a favourites screen 21 is illustrated in Figure 20. [01391 When the user selects a category from the home screen 13, activation of this category by tapping the category bar opens a particular category screen 22. The category screen provides a list of business members in the particular locality chosen together with salient descriptive information. As illustrated in Figure 20, the business members are listed in order of distance from the particular location of the user at the instant in time. [0140] The category screen 22 also has a search facility which opens a map screen 23 showing the locations of the business members from the categories screen 22 indicated thereon. If the user selects one of the business members from the map screen 23, then the user is taken to the business member home screen 24 which can also be accessed directly from the category screen 22. [0141] The business member home screen 24 includes relatively detailed information relating to the particular business member including potentially a photograph of their business, the address of the business with potential links to a map, the ability to contact the business directly, information about any deals that the business may be offering as well as an indication of any events that the business may be running. The business member home screen 24 has an icon in the top right hand side that allows the user to share this business member home screen with other people through a share screen 25 which according to the embodiment illustrated, allows sharing via Facebook, Twitter, email or by text message. [0142] As mentioned above, the business member home screen 24 allows the user the ability to contact the business member. Activation of the contract portion on the business member home screen 24 produces a contact screen 26 with the contact details of the particular business member. [01431 From the side navigation screen 20, the user also has the ability to view any deals which the user may have indicated are preferred by them. This will typically open a deals screen 27 which has a list of special offers by the business members that the user has indicated our favourites. Activation of any one of the links on the deals screen 27 produces a more detailed entry 28 indicating the actual deal which is available. [0144] An important aspect of the present invention is that the users of the system may be provided with the ability to "check-in". Users preferably receive discounts with business members based on their "check-in" habits. Large volumes of user check-ins gains better discounts. Each registered business member typically will provide a number of tiers of discounts with different offers depending upon the volume of check-ins by a particular user. For example, a tier one discount may be $10 off for one number of check-ins, a tier two discount may be a percentage off a purchase for a large number of check-ins and tier three may be offered for an even larger number of check-ins and may be a greater percentage discount. [0145] One preferred manner of navigation through the system of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 21. The side navigation screen 20 illustrated in figure 21, shows the side navigation through the other three sections of the side navigation menu. One of the side navigation menu items is a profile item which when activated, produces a profile screen of the user with salient information particularly in relation to the events or offers related to that user. The notifications menu item, when activated produces a notification screen 30 which lists the deals available from particular business members which the user may have indicated are favourites. The user will typically have the ability to claim a deal through this notification screen 30 as well. [01461 In an upper portion of the notification screen 30, the user has the ability to change between the deals offered by business members and the events offered by business members. Activation of the events link will take the user to an events page which lists the events offered by business members which the user may have indicated a favourites with the ability to add the events to a calendar. [01471 The user also has the ability to change the settings through activation of the settings menu item on the side navigation screen 20. This will typically open a settings screen showing the settings of the user and allowing the user to change the settings. [01481 From the business member homepage, the user has the ability to view photos saved in an album. Tapping the photo icon on the business member homepage 24 will typically open an album screen 33 allowing the user to view photos that are related to the business member. Activation of the map icon on the business member homepage 24 will typically open an individual business member map screen 34 showing the business member location. This functionality is illustrated in Figure 22. [0149] An example of the business member setup is illustrated in Figure 23. Typically, the category that the business member falls into will be set by the system administrator. Once the business member has applied for membership, the business member can then access the business setup page to set up their particular business member profile. The business member profile will typically include information as provided in the entry area illustrated in Figure 23. This is also preferably available through the same interface that the users access the system through. The business member has the ability to enter information and edit information within their own -Y I business member entry including the ability to add deals and events to their business member homepage or profile. [0150] Figure 24 shows some examples of actual screenshots from a prototype of the system of the present invention. Figure 25 shows an actual screenshots of the home screen of the system of the present invention. Figure 26 an actual screenshots of an accommodation business member. Figure 27 shows the contact page 26 of the business member illustrated in Figure 26. Figure 28 is an actual screenshots of an accommodation category page 22. Figure 29 is an actual screenshot of a search facility to search for a particular event, in this case music gigs within a particular location range of the user. Figure 30 is an actual screenshot of a date page which allows the user to set a date of a particular event to search for. [0151] Figure 31 is a screenshot of an event page which is returned which matches the user's search. If multiple events match the user's search, then a list of events and their distance from the user is produced, one for which is illustrated in Figure 32. The user can then select an event from that screen which produces the screenshot of the form illustrated in Figure 31 directed towards the particular event which allows the user to add the event to their calendar, buy tickets, see information in relation to the event, see the event location and allow the user to add that event to their favourites or view the location on a map. [0152] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'comprise' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers. [01531 Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations. [0154] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

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Claims

1. A computer implemented location specific software application for operation on a mobile computing device having at least a processor with accessible memory, a display, and at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time, the application including access to at least one business member database including a unique entry for each business member having at least name details, location details, a category of goods or services offered by each respective business member and display rules for display of the unique entry of the business member and at least one subscriber member database including a unique entry for each subscriber member including identification of each subscriber member to identify each subscriber member and a subscriber member mobile computing device to the system, the application accepting input from the at least one input apparatus and producing and displaying an image on the display based on input and current location of the mobile computing device obtained from the accessible positioning system, such that the processor and memory of the mobile communications device stores and processes instructions which when executed by the processor, causes the processor to perform method steps including obtaining a location of the mobile computing device, searching the business member database to locate business member location details nearby to the obtained location, identifying a list of business members nearby to the obtained location based on the search, and preparing and displaying a results display image on the mobile computing device display including a map of the location of the mobile computing device with nearby business members identified thereon identifying each nearby business member geographically on the displayed map with an icon representative of the category of goods or services offered by the business members with each icon being a portal to a corresponding unique entry of the business member to be displayed on the display of the mobile computing device upon selecting of the icon represented on the displayed image.

2. A location specific directory system including a mobile computing device having at least a processor with accessible memory, a display, at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time, and having access to at least one business member database including a unique entry for each business member having at least name details, location details, a category of goods or services offered by each respective business member and display rules for display of the unique entry of the business member and at least one subscriber member database including a unique entry for each subscriber member including identification of each subscriber member to identify each subscriber member and a subscriber member mobile computing device to the system, the mobile computing device accepting input from the at least one input apparatus and producing and displaying an image on the display based on input and current location of the mobile computing device obtained from the accessible positioning system, such that the processor and memory of the mobile communications device stores and processes instructions which when executed by the processor, causes the processor to perform method steps including obtaining a location of the mobile computing device, searching the business member database to locate business member location details nearby to the obtained location, identifying a list of business members nearby to the obtained location based on the search, preparing and displaying a results display image on the mobile computing device display including a map of the location of the mobile computing device with nearby business members identified thereon identifying each nearby business member geographically on the displayed map with an icon representative of the category of goods or services offered by the business members with each icon being a portal to a corresponding unique entry of the business member to be displayed on the display of the mobile computing device upon selecting of the icon represented on the displayed image.

3. A location specific directory method performed by a mobile computing device, the mobile computing device having at least a processor with accessible memory, a display, at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time, and having access to at least one business member database including a unique entry for each business member having at least name details, location details, a category of goods or services offered by each respective business member and display rules for display of the unique entry of the business member and at least one subscriber member database including a unique entry for each subscriber member including identification of each subscriber member to identify each subscriber member and a subscriber member mobile computing device to the system, the mobile computing device accepting input from the at least one input apparatus and producing and displaying an image on the display based on input and current location of the mobile computing device obtained from the accessible positioning system, such that the processor and memory of the mobile communications device stores and processes instructions which when executed by the processor, causes the processor to perform method steps including obtaining a location of the mobile computing device, searching the business member database to locate business member location details nearby to the obtained location, identifying a list of business members nearby to the obtained location based on the search, preparing and displaying a results display image on the mobile computing device display including a map of the location of the mobile computing device with nearby business members identified thereon identifying each nearby business member geographically on the displayed map with an icon representative of the category of goods or services offered by the business members with each icon being a portal to a corresponding unique entry of the business member to be displayed on the display of the mobile computing device upon selecting of the icon represented on the displayed image.

4. A mobile computing device with location specific directory application, the mobile computing device having at least a processor with accessible memory, a display, at least one input apparatus and an accessible positioning system updated substantially in real time, and having access to at least one business member database including a unique entry for each business member having at least name details, location details, a category of goods or services offered by each respective business member and display rules for display of the unique entry of the business member and at least one subscriber member database including a unique entry for each subscriber member including identification of each subscriber member to identify each subscriber member and a subscriber member mobile computing device to the system, the mobile computing device accepting input from the at least one input apparatus and producing and displaying an image on the display based on input and current location of the mobile computing device obtained from the accessible positioning system, such that the processor and memory of the mobile communications device stores and processes instructions which when executed by the processor, causes the processor to perform method steps including obtaining a location of the mobile computing device, searching the business member database to locate business member location details nearby to the obtained location, identifying a list of business members nearby to the obtained location based on the search, preparing and displaying a results display image on the mobile computing device display including a map of the location of the mobile computing device with nearby business members identified thereon identifying each nearby business member geographically on the displayed map with an icon representative of the category of goods or services offered by the business members with each icon being a portal to a corresponding unique entry of the business member to be displayed on the display of the mobile computing device upon selecting of the icon represented on the displayed image.