EP1155391A1

EP1155391A1 - A system, method and apparatus for interactive data presentation on a network

Info

Publication number: EP1155391A1
Application number: EP99960620A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Billy Steven Star; Joseph Matthew Lott
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1998-12-03
Filing date: 1999-11-30
Publication date: 2001-11-21
Also published as: CA2353551A1; JP2002531200A; AU1747900A; HK1043854A1; WO2000033281A1; EP1155391A4

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention for presenting interactive data to a user on a network comprises a primary program and an interactive data module. The primary program is any type of program that a user may desire to view and comprises a plurality of intervals that form the totality of the primary program. The interactive data module is segmented into a plurality of performance levels, wherein each performance level includes a predefined goal that the user must accomplish in a given time period. The performance levels of the interactive data module are presented between the intervals of the primary program. The placement of a performance level in-between the intervals is similar to a television advertisement, or series of television advertisements, which are placed in the commercial breaks during the television program. If the user accomplishes each goal for each performance level, the user achieves a predefined reward.

Description

A SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FORINTERACTIVE DATA PRESENTATION ONANETWORK

Related Application This application claims priority from provisional patent application entitled, A

Method, Apparatus And System On A Wide Area Network For Interactive Data Distribution, Serial No. 60,110,812 to Billy S. Star and Joseph M. Lott, filed on December 3, 1998, which is fully incorporated herein by reference.

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates, generally, to a system, method and apparatus for interactive data presentation on a network, and more specifically, in preferred embodiments, to a system, method and apparatus for creating and embedding an interactive data presentation within a primary program for presentation on a network.

Background of the Invention Wide area networks, such as the Internet or World Wide Web ("WWW"), have evolved to make information accessible on a global basis and to further provide global marketplaces. Indeed, network users can access the WWW for any need, including, research, exchange of information with other users, purchase merchandise and entertainment.

Currently, retailers and distributors on networks promote their products and services by a variety of promotional means. For instance, one method of advertising is a banner advertisement, which is frequently used on web pages. The banner advertisement is a portion of the web page that contains promotional information. However, the banner advertisement does not typically contain the full advertisement. To review the advertisement, the user must affirmatively interact with the banner to link, or access, the product page associated with the product or service promoted on the banner advertisement. Other types of advertisements employ a window that is presented to the user upon the activation of a web page. To view this type of advertisement, the user must wait for the information to download into the window. As such, these windows can be closed by the user prior to the presentation of the advertisement, thereby defeating the purpose of the advertisement. Although the above advertising modalities are currently useful, it is increasingly unclear the extent to which such advertisements are effective. Indeed, many banner advertisements are rarely engaged, and full frame window advertisements are usually closed by the user before the advertisement can be downloaded for review by the user. As these advertising modalities are disruptive of user activity, in most instances, the advertisements are avoided by the user.

One of the more effective advertising techniques employed has been in the area of television and radio. Television advertising, which is similar to radio advertising, is designed such that the information for the product or service is interspersed during and between the television programming. Indeed, "breaks", or interruptions, during the primary program are specifically created such that the advertisements, commonly known as "commercials", could be inserted. In general, the commercials are short messages that promote a particular product or service, wherein the commercial lasts for about 15 or 30 seconds.

The advantage to placing commercials between predefined interruptions in the primary program is that the audience is generally a captive audience for purposes of the primary program, that is, the audience has usually voluntarily chosen to view the primary program. As such, the audience is usually present at the beginning of the commercial. However, as is commonly known, the novelty of these short diversions diminished, as did the attention of the audience. Indeed, one disadvantage with television commercials is the inability to keep the audience captive such that they remain watching for the entirety of the commercial. Commercial breaks soon became a break in the primary program that allowed the audience to engage in other activities. Thus, similar to current advertising modalities on the WWW, television type advertising fails in that it cannot always maintain the attention of the audience. As evinced from above, there is a need in the industry for a manner of presenting target data to users, for example, promotional information or advertising, that sufficiently maintains the interest of the user such that the user is exposed to the advertisement or other target data in its entirety. A further need exists to present the target data in a manner that is not disruptive of a user's activities, but rather, engages the user such that the user is exposed to the target data. Summary of the Disclosure

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a system, method and apparatus for - interactive data presentation on a network. In preferred embodiments, the present invention relates to a system, method and apparatus for creating, embedding and displaying an interactive data presentation within a primary program for presentation on a network.

Embodiments of the present invention for presenting interactive data to a user on a network comprises a primary program, an interactive data module and a user interface. The primary program is any type of program that a user may desire to view. The primary program comprises a plurality of intervals, wherein the intervals are sequentially presented to the user with "breaks" such that the primary program is presented in its totality.

The interactive data module comprises a plurality of performance levels, target data and a predefined reward. The interactive data module is segmented into the performance levels, wherein each performance level includes a predefined goal that the user must accomplish in a given time period. If the user accomplishes the goal within the given time period, the user advances to the next performance level; otherwise, the user must repeat the given performance level until the goal is achieved. If the user accomplishes each goal for each performance level, the user achieves the predefined reward.

The target data is embedded into the interactive data module and is predefined by the provider, such as, an advertisement for a product or service that the provider desires to promote. The performance levels of the interactive data module are presented between the intervals of the primary program. The placement of a performance level in-between the intervals is similar to a television advertisement, or series of television advertisements, which are placed in the commercial breaks during the television program.

If the user graduates through all of the performance levels prior to the completion of the primary program, or within the given number of interludes allotted for the performance of the interactive data module, the user receives the predefined reward which is a prize for successfully completing the interactive data module. To access the system, the user engages a user interface, such as, a menu.

A feature of embodiments of the instant invention is the interspersing of an interactive program with a primary program. An advantage to this feature is that the provider can more easily retain the user's attention.

A further feature of embodiments of the instant invention is that target data is embedded into the interactive data. An advantage to this feature is that the user is exposed to the information that the provider or sponsor desires the user to view without interrupting the- user's activities. A further advantage to this feature is that the user is voluntarily exposed to the target data as the user voluntarily engages in the interactive program. A still further feature of embodiments of the present invention is that a reward is offered to the user. An advantage to this feature is that the user is provided with an incentive to participate in the interactive program and thereby voluntarily reviews the target data which is embedded in the interactive program.

The above and other features and advantages of embodiments of this invention will be apparent from the following more detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of illustrative embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The detailed description of embodiments of the invention will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals designate corresponding parts in the figures.

Figure 1 is a network system environment in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the instant invention.

Figure 2 is a representation of a primary program in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a representation of an interactive data module in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a representation of the primary program interspersed with the interactive data module in accordance with the embodiment in Figures 2 and 3. Figure 5 is a preferred embodiment of a reward form.

Figure 6 is a user interface in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 7 is a listing of primary programs in accordance with the preferred embodiment of Figure 6. Figure 8 is a block diagram of the operation of the system for presenting predefined data to users in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

Embodiments of the instant invention are directed to a system, method and apparatus for displaying content to users on a wide area network. Embodiments of the instant invention employ a network of computers and programs for retrieving and displaying content to users on a wide area network, such as, the WWW or the Internet.

Hardware Environment:

Preferred embodiments of the instant invention operate with a network comprising a plurality of networked computers, such as, for example, at least one user computer and at least one provider computer which are coupled together in a communications network, such as, for example, the Internet or WWW. Figure 1 depicts a simplified representation of an example network system 10 that is operated in accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention.

The network system 10 includes at least two user computers 12 and at least one provider, or content, computer 14 coupled for communication therebetween by the remainder of the network, generally represented at 16. In the illustrated embodiment, three user computers 12 and one provider computer 14 are shown in the network system. It will be understood that further embodiments may employ any suitable number of user and provider computers. The network system 10 may comprise a closed or intranet configuration, an open or public-access network configuration or combinations of such configurations, as is well known in the art. For example, the user and provider computers 12 and 14 may be included in smaller, interconnected networks which compose the overall network system 10. In an Internet embodiment, the network system 10 comprises a combination of a large number of interconnected internets and intranets. For purposes of simplifying the present disclosure, the various hardware components (for example, host servers, routers, connectors) and software necessary for communication between computers on the network system are not described herein in detail. Such hardware and software are well within the scope of one of ordinary skill in the art and are at least partially dependent upon the type of network system employed and the desired application of use. The user computer 12 may comprise any suitable network device capable of communicating with other network devices in the network system. In preferred embodiments, the user computer 12 comprises a programmable processor capable of operating in accordance with programs stored on one or more computer readable media (for example, but not limited to floppy disc, hard disc, computer network, random access memory (RAM), CD Rom, or the like), a display device for providing a user-perceivable display (for example, but not limited to visual displays, such as cathode ray tube CRT displays, light- emitting-diode LED or liquid-crystal-diode LCD displays, plasma displays or the like, audio displays or tactile displays), and a user input device (for example, but not limited to, a keyboard, mouse, microphone, or the like). In one preferred embodiment, the user computer comprises a personal computer system having a CRT display, a keyboard and a mouse user- input device. The user computer 12 is controlled by suitable software, including network communication and browser software to allow a user to request, receive and display information (or content) from or through a content provider computer 14 on the network system 10. In preferred embodiments, the user computer 12 employs a program, such as a browser, for displaying content received from a provider computer 14. The provider computer 14 may comprise any suitable network device capable of providing content (data representing text, hypertext, photographs, graphics video and/or audio) for communication over the network. In preferred embodiments, the provider computer comprises a programmable processor capable of operating in accordance with programs stored on one or more computer readable media (for example, but not limited to, floppy disks, hard disks, random access memory RAM, CD-ROM), to provide content for communication to a user computer 12. The provider computer may comprise, for example, but is not limited to, a personal computer, a mainframe computer, network computer, portable computer, personal data assistant (such as, a 3Com Palm Pilot), or the like. The provider computer 14 may include one or more internal data storage devices (not shown) for storing content for communication to a user computer 12. Alternatively, or in addition, the provider computer 14 may be coupled to an external data storage device, computer or other means, from which the provider computer 14 may obtain content for communication to a user computer 12. In one embodiment, the external device may comprise a further network device coupled in the network 16.

General Description of Preferred Embodiments:

Embodiments of the present invention for presenting interactive data to a user on a network comprises a primary program 18, an interactive data module 20 and a user interface 22. The primary program 18 is a program of a predefined duration and is any type of program, including, but not limited to, a documentary, a soap opera, a weekly series or a movie. If the primary program 18 is in an analog format, the primary program 18 must be digitized prior to its importation onto the provider computer 14 or any other storage means, such as, a server. In one embodiment, the importation of the primary program 18 onto the provider computer 14 is accomplished through the use of a video input card, a sound input card, and capturing software. Any capturing software that is capable of importing the primary program 18 onto the provider computer is suitable, including, but not limited to, VidCap32 or Adobe Premiere.

To maximize the speed of access to the end user on the network, the primary program 18 is converted to streaming data. In some embodiments, software programs such as Real Publisher from Real Networks, or QuickTime 3.0 from Apple are used for streaming the programming of the primary program, although any software capable of streaming the programming is suitable. In addition to streaming, other parameters of the primary program 18 can be adjusted so as to maximize the transfer time to the users, including, but not limited to, the size of the viewing screen, the frame rate, audio sampling rate, contrast and color usage. The primary programs can be obtained from any source, or a combination of sources.

For instance, in some embodiments, a provider, such as, a web host, produces the primary programs. However, in some embodiments, the primary programs are owned by other parties. In these instances, it might be necessary to obtain the appropriate rights, such as, rights of performance, prior to use of the primary programs. With reference to Figure 2, the primary program 18 comprises a plurality of segments or intervals 24, wherein the intervals 24 are portions of the primary program. In preferred embodiments, the intervals 24 are sequentially presented such that when viewed by the user, the primary program 18 is presented from beginning to end.

The intervals 24 are of a predefined duration of time t. Generally, the time durations for each interval (tl, t2, t3, t4) are approximately equal, however, in some embodiments, the time duration for one or more of the intervals 24 can differ. For instance, in one embodiment (not shown), tl is equivalent to t2, but tl is greater than t3 and less than t4. The interactive data module 20 is interactive in nature and is intended to engage the user. The interactive data module 20 can include any type of interactive means, including, - but not limited to, a survey, a game, a trivia questionnaire, a combination thereof, or any other means suitable for requiring interactive involvement with the user. Generally, the interactive data module 20 is of an overall time duration that is shorter than the primary program 18 and requires varying levels of skill on the part of the user. As stated above, the interactive data module 20 can merely require the user to participate in a survey or can require the user to demonstrate mental skills or skills involving dexterity, such as, skills required for a video arcade. With reference to Figure 3, the interactive data module 20 comprises a plurality of performance levels 26, target data 28 and a predefined reward 30. The interactive data module 20 is segmented into the performance levels 26, wherein each performance level 26 includes a predefined goal 32 that the user must accomplish in a given time period. In some preferred embodiments, the time period in which to accomplish the goal 32 is 30 seconds, however, other time periods, including, but not limited to, 15, 45 or 60 seconds can also be suitable. In preferred embodiments, the time periods to accomplish the goals are similar to the time period for a television or radio commercial, or a set of commercials.

In one embodiment, with the exception of the first performance level, each performance level 26 builds upon, or evolves from the previous performance level. For instance, if the interactive data module 20 is a series of rooms that a user must traverse to reach a particular room which contains a prize, the entering and exiting of a room in the first performance level 26 is necessary in order to allow the user to enter the next room at the second performance level. In this manner, the advancement to subsequent performance levels 26 is dependent upon the accomplishments of the previous performance levels 26. As stated above, if the user accomplishes the goal 32 within the given time period, the user advances to the next performance level. If the user fails to reach the goal 32 within the given time period, the user must repeat the given performance level 26 until the goal 32 is achieved. As the user achieves each goal 32 of a given performance level 26, the user advances through the performance levels. If the user accomplishes each goal 32 for each performance level, the user achieves the predefined reward 30.

The target data 28 is embedded into, or coupled with, the interactive data module 20. The target data 28 is predefined by the provider, and can include an advertisement for a product or service that the provider desires to promote or that the provider is paid to promote by an advertiser or sponsor. The target data 28 can be textual, graphic or auditory, such as.-a jingle. In general, the target data 28 is the advertisements of a sponsor of the primary program. In one embodiment, the target data 28 is the subject matter of the interactive data module. For instance, in one embodiment, the interactive data module 20 is directed to a game that requires the user to find hidden food products that are sold by a particular company. In this instance, the company's logo, as well as, the names of the food products, and characters which are normally associated with the food products, if any, can be included in the presentation of the interactive data module 20. In this manner, the subject of the interactive data module 20 is the target data 28, that is, the information that the sponsor desires the user to view.

In another embodiment, the target data 28 can merely be associated with, or related to, the subject matter of the interactive data module. For instance, an interactive football game can include the logo of the manufacturer of an athletic shoe. In this manner, the user is presented with the desired target data 28 during the interactivity with the module even though the target data 28 is not the direct subject matter of the interactive data module.

Overall, the intervals 24 of the primary program 18 are not contiguously played or performed; rather, the cessation of an interval 24 is succeeded by an interlude 31, or predefined amount of time, prior to the commencement of the subsequent interval 24. In this manner, the primary program 18 is suspended for a given amount of time after each interval 24 has been presented to the user.

With reference to Figure 4, a performance level 26 of the interactive data module 20 is placed in the interlude 31, that is, between the intervals 24 of the primary program. This placement of a performance level 26 in-between the intervals 24 of the primary program 18 is similar to a television advertisement, or series of television advertisements, which are placed in the commercial breaks during the television program. The user is tasked with the challenge of reaching the goal 32 of a particular performance level 26 during the period of time of the interlude 31, which corresponds to the time period allotted for the given performance level. If the user reaches the goal, the user advances to the next performance level 26 and is presented with the next performance level 26 at the next "commercial break" of the primary program. In some embodiments, if the user achieves the goal 32 of the performance level 26 prior to the expiration of the interlude 31, the subsequent performance level 26 can commence.

Once the interlude 31 time period expires, the next interval of the primary program 18 commences. In one preferred embodiment, the interactive data module 20 is terminated via the use of meta refresh tags or any other means, such as, cookies or small tracking files, capable of terminating the performance level 26 of the interactive data module, and directing the user to the appropriate position in the primary program. The cookie provides the ability for the user's specific placement in the interactive data module 20 to be 'remembered' or logged. In this manner, the user is able to rejoin the interactive data module 20 at the exact place where the user left during the last commercial. Thus, if desired, the user can rejoin the interactive data module 20 at any place in a particular performance level 26 and is not required to recommence the performance level 26 at its beginning at the next interlude. Similar means are employed to terminate the primary program 18 at the expiration of the time period t for the given interval 24. If the user graduates through all of the performance levels 26 prior to the completion of the primary program, or within the given number of interludes 31 allotted for the performance of the interactive data module 20, the user receives the predefined reward 30. The predefined reward 30 is a prize that is awarded to the user. The reward 30 can include, but is not limited to, coupons, entries into drawings, gift certificates, discounts, free promotional items and tickets. It is to be understood that in some embodiments, no prize is awarded and the user's reward 30 is the sense of accomplishment. When the user completes the final performance level 26 successfully, a reward form 34 is presented to the user. With reference to Figure 5, the form 34 requests the user to user information 35 necessary to award the prize. The form 34 includes a submit button 36 which the user depresses to transmit the form to the provider computer. In some embodiments, the form can be printed via a print button 37 and redeemed at a retailer or service center which is operated by the sponsor of the target data 28. The user is notified of the reward 30 which is then forwarded to the user by any suitable means, including, but not limited to, the network and postal services.

With reference to Figure 6, in preferred embodiments, the user interface 22 is a menu comprising a program selection section 40, user information section 42 and a submit button 44. The menu 22 is accessible on a web site from the user's browser. With reference to Figure 7, in one embodiment, the program selection section 40 lists a selection of the types of primary programs 46 from which the user can choose. For instance, the menu will allow a user to select from programming, such as, sports, educational, movies, comedy, drama, action, mystery, sit-coms and re-runs. Once the user has selected the type of programming the user desires to watch, the user will be given a selection of programs 47 from which to choose. In one embodiment, a pull down menu lists the selection of the primary programs 47 for a particular type of selection. The user then chooses the specific program to view by any suitable means, including, but not limited to, checking a box next to the selection, highlighting and clicking on the selection.

The user information section 42 is an information gathering section which can be used to formulate a profile of the user. The user information section 42 allows the users to indicate their preferences for a variety of information, such as, types of movies, foods, hobbies, sports. In one preferred embodiment, the preferences are a series of boxes that the user selects, although any manner of obtaining user information is suitable, including, but not limited to, presenting questions to the user and fill-in the blank. Once the user has marked the appropriate boxes for the specific primary program 18 selection and user information, the user depresses the submit button 44. The information is then transmitted to the primary computer which retrieves the primary program 18 and selects the interactive data module. If no user data is included, the interactive data module 20 is selected based upon the selection of the primary program. If however, the user information section 42 is included in the menu and the user chooses to indicate preferences, the selection of the interactive data module 20 can also be based, in part, on the user information.

In operation, with reference to Figure 8, the user selects a primary program 18 from the menu 48. As described above, if the menu includes a user preference section, the user is invited to submit user profile information. Once the primary program 18 is selected, the request is transmitted to the provider computer. Although the user is unaware of the selection of the interactive data module, prior to the commencement of the primary program, the interactive data module 20 is selected. In this embodiment, the primary program 18 is segmented into intervals II, 12, 13 and 14. Similarly, the interactive data module 20 is segmented into performance levels PI, P2 and P3. Once the interactive data module 20 is selected, the primary program 18 is commenced 50 and interval II is presented to the user. The interval II plays until the interval is completed. Upon the completion of the interval II, a first "commercial break" occurs. During the first commercial break the interactive data module 20 commences 52 and performance level PI is initiated. The user plays, or responds to performance level PI for the predetermined amount of time 54. Once the time period for the performance level PI expires, interval 12 begins to play 56 and plays through completion. At the expiration of interval 12, a determination is made as to whether the user completed performance level PI and achieved the preestablished goal 58. If the user achieved the goal 32 for performance level PI, performance level P2 is presented to the user 60. If the user did not achieve the goal 32 for performance level PI, performance level PI is replayed for the user 62. At the expiration of the time period for performance level PI or P2, interval 13 is played 64. Upon the completion of interval 13, a determination is made as to whether the user completed the goal 32 of the previously played performance level 66. If the user achieved the goal 68, then the subsequent performance level 26 is presented to the user. Thus, in this instance, performance level P2 or P3 might be played. For instance, if the user failed performance level PI during the first attempt, but succeeded on the second attempt, then performance level P2 will be presented. However, if the user has successfully completed each performance level, then performance level P3 will be presented to the user. However, if the user has failed to achieve the goal 32 of the previous performance level, that performance level 26 will be presented again. At the expiration of the time period for the final performance level, interval 14 is presented to the user 72. At the conclusion of interval 14, and the primary program, a determination is made as to whether the user has achieved the goal 32 for the highest performance level 74, that is, performance level P3. If the user has achieved the goal 32 for performance level P3, the user has, by design, completed the goals for all of the performance levels, that is, performance levels PI and P2. If the user has achieved the goals for all of the performance levels, the user is awarded the predefined reward 76. If the user has not achieved the goals for all of the performance levels, no award is issued 78. In some embodiments, the reward 30 is presented upon the achievement of the goal 32 of the final performance level 26 and is not delayed until the end of the primary program. It is to be understood that a user can play throughout the length of time of the interlude. Thus, in some instances, a user might complete more than one performance level 26 prior to the commencement of the next segment 20 of the primary program. In these instances, the user's "place" is saved such that at the next interlude, the user will begin interaction with the appropriate performance level.

In addition to the embodiments described above, in other embodiments, tracking technology can be included in the interactive data system. The tracking technology, such as, software, allows the tracking and documenting of any type of statistical data that can be predefined by the sponsor or provider. For instance, information regarding the identification of the user, the geographic location of the user, the times that the user participates in the program and the general levels of skill the user is capable of achieving can be tracked. The collected variable can be recorded in a database or log file. This information can also be used to determine the type of interactive data module 20 to present to the user if the user decides to view more than one primary program. Thus, a more targeted and enjoyable type of interactive data module 20 can be presented to the particular user. In one embodiment, custom CGI programming records the Environment ("ENN") variables obtained from common Internet protocols. It is to be understood that the interactive data modules can be created to complement any type of primary program 18 or promote any desired target data. Indeed, sets of interactive data modules can be created that are theme oriented or target data 28 oriented. Further still, sets of interactive data modules can be created that are directed to a type of target data 28 or directed to unrelated target data. Although some features of the interactive data module 20 has been discussed above, an explanation of at least one embodiment of the method of creating the interactive data module 20 will be presented.

The method of creating the interactive data module 20 comprises creating an event sequence having a plurality of performance levels, determining the final goal 32 or reward 30 and developing the event sequence. The event sequence is the story-line or sequence of activities that the user will encounter throughout the interactive data module. In some embodiments, a story board or flowchart is created which sets forth the event sequence. In preferred embodiments, the event sequence is a series of steps that a user must accomplish, wherein the story-line of the interactive data module 20 is designed to expose the user to specified target data 28 and could further include a message regarding the benefits of the target data.

For each performance level, at least one attainable goal 32 is determined. It is to be understood that each performance level 26 is not limited to a single goal, but could include multiple goals depending upon the length of the primary program, the time allotted for the - interactive data module, and the skill level or difficulty of each goal. Typically, the goals should be attainable within a predefined amount of time, such as 30 or 60 seconds. Each performance level 26 is designed so as to require some skill from the user, such as, for example, reasoning skills; hand-eye coordination; knowledge regarding trivia, history, or sports; or specialized skills in math or spelling.

Once the concept of the event sequence and/or the subject matter of the event sequence is determined, the final reward 30 is determined. The final reward 30 is one of the incentives for the user to participate in the interactive data module, and as discussed above, can include, for example, coupons, entries into drawings, gift certificates, discounts, free promotional items and tickets.

The development of the event sequence includes programming graphics and text into a series of programs that can be executed for the user. Indeed, text, graphics and other embellishments, such as, sounds, are imported into the event sequences in the appropriate places in the story line to create the story or events.

The development of the event sequences is accomplished via software programs. The choice of software programs, or developmental tools, depends, in part, on the type of interactive data module 20 that is to be created. Some suitable development tools include, but are not limited to, Macromedia Flash and Director.

In addition to the text, graphics and other embellishments, a signal, such as, a meta refresh tag or command from within the secondary programming, which is triggered by a user action, is included at the end of each performance level. When activated, the signal indicates that the user has completed the performance level 26 or that the time allotted for the performance level 26 has expired. In one preferred embodiment, the signal is a custom scripting language. For example, with the use of the tool Director, a Director native scripting language, known as Lingo, can be used. In addition to alerting the program that the time for the performance level 26 has expired, the signal interfaces with tracking management software, wherein the tracking management software tracks or memorizes the user's position of achievement in the performance level 26 such that the user commences the interactive data module 20 in the appropriate position at the next commercial break. Thus, the performance level 26 of the user is determined by the interactive data module 20 at the next interlude 31. To determine the user's level of achievement, the custom script sends commands to the tracking software. The tracking software responds to the custom script with an indication of the user's position.

Although the foregoing described the invention with embodiments having particular forms that have been illustrated and described, this is not intended to limit the invention. Rather, the foregoing is intended to cover all modifications and alternative constructions falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as expressed in the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An apparatus for presenting predefined data to a receiver on a network, comprising: a primary program segmented into predefined intervals, wherein each predefined interval has a predetermined duration; and an interactive module, wherein the interactive module comprises: a plurality of performance levels, wherein each performance level has a predetermined duration and a predefined goal; and a predefined award; wherein a performance level of the interactive module succeeds a predefined interval of the primary program such that an alternating presentation of the primary program and the interactive module can be achieved.

2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of performance levels comprises a first performance level having a first predefined goal and a second performance level having a second predefined goal, wherein the receiver must achieve the first predefined goal prior to proceeding to the second performance level.

3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined data is presented to the receiver in at least one of the performance levels.

4. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined data is related to the predefined award.

5. A method for presenting predefined data to a receiver on a network, comprising: segmenting a primary program into predefined intervals, wherein each interval is of a predetermined duration; segmenting an interactive module into a plurality of performance levels, wherein each performance level is of a predetermined duration and wherein each performance level has a predefined goal; alternating the presentation to the receiver of a predefined interval of the primary program and a performance level of the interactive module; repeating the alternating presentation to the receiver of the predefined intervals of the primary program and a performance level of the interactive module until all of the predefined intervals have been presented.

6. A method as claimed in claim 5, wherein presenting a predefined interval comprises: presenting a first predefined interval to a receiver succeeded by a first performance level having a first predefined goal; and presenting a second predefined interval to a receiver succeeded by either the first performance level or a second performance level, wherein the presentation of the first performance level or the second performance level is determined by the achievement of the first goal by the receiver.

7. A process for creating an interactive data module with a primary program for presentation to a receiver on a network, comprising: defining the subject matter for the interactive data module; determining the mode of interactivity for the interactive data module; defining an award; developing the interactive data module; segmenting the interactive data module into a plurality of performance levels, wherein each performance level comprises: at least one interactive task; and a predefined goal, wherein achievement of the goal is determined by the successful completion of the task; incorporating the interactive module with the primary program for presentation on the network.

8. A process for developing data presentation programming with interactive data modules for presentation on a network, comprising: selecting a primary program; formatting the primary program for presentation on the network; defining the subject matter for the interactive data module; determining the mode of interactivity for the interactive data module; defining an award; segmenting the primary program into a plurality of segments, wherein each segment is a predefined amount of information; segmenting the interactive data module into a plurality of performance levels, wherein each performance level comprises: at least one interactive task; and a predefined goal, wherein achievement of the goal is determined by the successful completion of the task; incorporating the segments of the primary program with the performance levels of the interactive data module.

9. A process for developing data presentation as claimed in claim 8, wherein formatting the primary program is digitization of the primary program.

10. An apparatus for presenting predefined data to a receiver on a network, comprising: a primary program segmented into predefined intervals, wherein each predefined interval has a predetermined duration; and an interactive module, wherein the interactive module comprises a performance level, wherein the performance level has a predetermined duration and a predefined award; wherein the performance level of the interactive module succeeds a predefined interval of the primary program such that an alternating presentation of the primary program and the interactive module is achieved.