EP1671205A2 - Content management system for creating and maintaining a database of information utilizing user experiences - Google Patents
Content management system for creating and maintaining a database of information utilizing user experiencesInfo
- Publication number
- EP1671205A2 EP1671205A2 EP04784545A EP04784545A EP1671205A2 EP 1671205 A2 EP1671205 A2 EP 1671205A2 EP 04784545 A EP04784545 A EP 04784545A EP 04784545 A EP04784545 A EP 04784545A EP 1671205 A2 EP1671205 A2 EP 1671205A2
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- computer
- user
- request
- database
- users
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/02—Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F16/00—Information retrieval; Database structures therefor; File system structures therefor
- G06F16/90—Details of database functions independent of the retrieved data types
- G06F16/95—Retrieval from the web
- G06F16/958—Organisation or management of web site content, e.g. publishing, maintaining pages or automatic linking
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to systems for creating, maintaining and using database information. More particularly, it relates to a system for automatically creating and maintaining a database of information utilizing user opinions, experiences and knowledge. Even more particularly, it relates to an Internet system related to assisting a population of users to automatically maintain the database content and to improve the usefulness and quality of the database information with no substantial direct, day-to-day management by the website owner- manager.
- Corporate on-line shared information services also present difficulties for the system operators and managers. Specifically, they require a high degree of human intervention to maintain.
- Corporate on-line information services permit users to comment on and rate subjects within their site and routinely remove those that are out of date or inappropriate either manually or by automated means based on the age of the comment or rating.
- the current methods lack precision because of the ambiguous nature of the ratings and comments. The ambiguity requires a high level of human intervention if the information is to remain current and appropriate.
- Corporate on-line information services sometimes use groups or "populations" or "communities” of contributors, i.e., a population of users, to input and maintain the subject content of the database. These communities may be organized geographically, by functional area, or by subject matter expertise.
- OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, it is an object and feature of this invention to provide such a system to develop and maintain content in a database of subjects (e.g., a product, a service, a leisure activity, an experience or a topic), which content can be easily and uniquely searched by users to help them make informed decisions about the database subjects that are particularly relevant to their needs and desires. It is another object and feature of this invention to provide a system for collecting user opinions and/or reviews regarding the database subjects and for utilizing the user opinions and/or reviews to support database searches and more informed decision-making about the subjects.
- a database of subjects e.g., a product, a service, a leisure activity, an experience or a topic
- a system for collecting user opinions and/or reviews regarding the database subjects and for utilizing the user opinions and/or reviews to support database searches and more informed decision-making about the subjects.
- Yet another object and feature of the invention is to enable people with diverse backgrounds and qualifications to contribute content to the database and to express opinions or reviews in the form of ratings of database subjects, all in a way that improves the usefulness and quality of the information being added or rated. It is still another object and feature of the invention to reduce the need for centralized control and management of the database content and the contributor community by leveraging the talents, skills, and efforts of the user community to maintain the quality of the database content and the performance of the contributors. It is another object and feature of the present invention to provide a system for encouraging people to create, maintain and provide opinions on the database content. Yet another object and feature of the invention is to attract users and develop user loyalty through personal involvement and content contribution by way of participation in the rewards of the success of the web site.
- Another primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide a means for accessing the various functions of the present invention from within other software operating on the user's personal computer, laptop, or personal digital assistant Additional objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description that follows and in part will be apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objects, features and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instrumentalities and combinations pointed out in the appended claims.
- this invention provides an Internet client-server system, relating to assisting a group of users with at least one common goal ⁇ to capture and search, in at least one database, offered knowledge, relevant to such at least one common goal, of a plurality of such users for the benefit of at least one of such users, comprising: computer interface means for individually capturing at least one experience of at least some of such plurality of such users; computer database means for storing such captured at least one experience associated with at least one of a plurality of kinds of experience; computer interface means for user-searching to select at least one desired kind of such stored at least one experience; computer processor means for performing such user-searching; computer interface means for presenting search results of such performed user-searching; computer processor means for automatically selecting, relating to at least one request formulated to request specified knowledge about at least one of such plurality of kinds of experience, at least one user of such plurality of users to receive such at least one request for such specified knowledge; computer processor means for automatically sending such at
- this invention provides an Internet client-server system relating to assisting a group of users with at least one common goal to capture and search, in at least one database, offered knowledge, relevant to such at least one common goal, of a plurality of such users for the benefit of at least one of such users, comprising: computer interface means for individually capturing at least one experience of at least some of such plurality of such users; computer database means for storing such captured at least one experience associated with at least one of a plurality of kinds of experience; computer interface means for user-searching to select at least one desired kind of such stored at least one experience; computer processor means for performing such user-searching; computer interface means for presenting search results of such performed user-searching; and computer integration means for providing from within at least one other computer-based system at least one first button for accessing such interface means for user-searching to select at least one desired kind of such stored at least one experience.
- Such a Internet client-server system further comprising: computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one second button for accessing such computer interface means for individually capturing at least one experience of at least some of such plurality of such users; and computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one third button for accessing computer interface means for formulating at least one request for such specified knowledge.
- Such a Internet client-server system further comprising: computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one other button for accessing computer interface means for approving such at least one stored experience; computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one additional other button for accessing computer interface means for responding to such at least one formulated request for such specified knowledge; computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one yet additional other button for accessing computer interface means for displaying at least one web page of such Internet client-server system. Also, it provides such a Internet client-server system wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based email system.
- Such a Internet client-server system wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based word processing system. And, it provides such a Internet client-server system wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based spreadsheet system. Further, it provides such a Internet client-server system wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based presentation preparation system. Even further, it provides such a Internet client-server system wherein such at least one other computer-based system is manufactured by Microsoft Corporation.
- Such a Internet client-server system further comprising: computer processor means for automatically selecting, for at least one request formulated for such specified knowledge about at least one of such plurality of topics, at least one user of such plurality of selected users to receive such at least one request for such specified knowledge; computer processor means for automatically sending such at least one request for such specified knowledge to such at least one user; computer processor means for receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such specified knowledge; and computer processor means for adding such received specified knowledge to such at least one database.
- this invention provides an Internet client-server program, relating to assisting at least one group of users having at least one common goal to capture and search, in at least one database, offered knowledge, relevant to such at least one common goal, of a plurality of such users for the benefit of at least one of such users, comprising the steps of: individually capturing for such at least one database at least one experience of at least some of such plurality; storing in such at least one database such experience; user'-searching to select at least one desired kind of stored experience; performing such user-searching; and presenting search results; wherein such at least one database may be initially and continuously seeded by the steps of formulating at least one request for such knowledge relevant to such at least one common goal, automatically selecting at least one user of such group of users to receive such at least one request for such relevant knowledge, automatically sending such at least one request for such relevant knowledge to such at least one user, receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such relevant knowledge, and adding such received relevant knowledge to such
- this invention provides an Internet client-server program, relating to assisting at least one group of users having at least one common goal to capture and search, in at least one database, offered knowledge, relevant to such at least one common goal, of a plurality of such users for the benefit of at least one of such users, comprising the steps of: individually capturing for such at least one database at least one experience of at least some of such plurality; storing in such at least one database such experience; user-searching, using at least one natural-language word, to select at least one desired kind of stored experience; performing such user-searching; presenting search results; and providing from within at least one other computer-based system at least one first button for user-searching to select at least one desired kind of stored experience.
- Such a Internet client-server program further comprising the steps of: providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one second button for individually capturing for such at least one database at least one experience of at least some of such plurality; and providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one third button for formulating at least one request for such specified knowledge.
- Such a Internet client-server program further comprising the steps of: providing from within at least one other computer-based system at least one other button for approving such at least one stored experience; providing from within at least one other computer-based system at least one additional other button for responding to such at least one formulated request for such specified knowledge; providing from within at least one other computer-based system at least one yet additional other button for displaying at least one web page of such Internet client-server system.
- a Internet client-server program wherein such at least one other . computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based email system.
- such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based word processing system.
- Such a Internet client-server program wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based spreadsheet system. Even further, it provides such a Internet client- server program wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based presentation preparation system. Moreover, it provides such a Internet client- server program wherein such at least one other computer-based system is manufactured by Microsoft Corporation.
- Such a Internet client-server program further comprising the steps of: initially and continuously seeding such at least one database; wherein such step of initially and continuously seeding such at least one database comprises the steps of formulating at least one request for such knowledge relevant to such at least one common goal, automatically selecting at least one user of such group of users to receive such at least one request for such relevant knowledge, automatically sending such at least one request for such relevant knowledge to such at least one user, receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such relevant knowledge, and adding such received relevant knowledge.to such at least one database.
- this invention provides a business system, for a developer, relating to use by customers having websites, of web computer systems of the type involving supporting a community of users interacting with at least one database to search for particular subject information, comprising the steps of: providing such computer systems to comprise software management systems to directly manage such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management; and providing variables in such software management systems to be configurable by such customer without affecting such direct management operations; wherein such software management systems comprise automatically measuring efforts of each user of such community, automatically setting of goals for each user of such community, and automatically managing at least one reward system to reward management efforts of each user of such community; wherein such at least one database may be initially and continuously seeded by the steps of formulating at least one request for such particular subject information; automatically selecting at least one such user to receive such at least one request for such particular subject information; automatically sending such at least one request for such particular subject information to such at least one user; receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such
- this invention provides a business system, for a developer, relating to use by customers having websites, of web computer systems of the type involving supporting a community of users interacting with at least one database to search for particular subject information, comprising the steps of: providing for such computer systems to comprise software management systems to directly manage such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management; providing for variables in such software management systems to be configurable by such customer without affecting such direct management operations; and providing from within at least one other computer-based system at least one first button to so search for such particular subject information; and wherein such software management systems comprise automatically measuring efforts of each user of such community, automatically setting of goals for each user of such community, and automatically managing at least one reward system to reward management efforts of each user of such community.
- a business system further comprising: providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one second button to individually capture for such at least one database at least one such particular subject information; and providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one third button for formulating at least one user request for at least one such particular subject information.
- a business system further comprising: providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one other button for approving at least one such particular subject information; providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one additional other button for responding to such at least one request for such particular subject information; and providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one yet additional other button for displaying at least one web page of such web computer system.
- Such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based email system. Further, it provides such a business system wherein such at least one other computer- based system comprises at least one computer-based word processing system. Even further, it provides such a business' system wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based spreadsheet system. Moreover, it provides such a business system wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based presentation preparation system. Additionally, it provides such a business system wherein such at least one other computer-based system is manufactured by Microsoft Corporation.
- such at least one database may be initially and continuously seeded by the steps of: formulating at least one request for such particular subject information; automatically selecting at least one such user to receive such at least one request for such particular subject information; automatically sending such at least one request for such particular subject information to such at least one user; receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such particular subject information; and adding such received particular subject information to such at least one database.
- this invention provides a business system, supplied by a developer, relating to use by customers having websites comprising web server computer systems of the type involving supporting a community of users, having client computer systems, interacting with at least one database to search for particular subject information, comprising providing, for website use: computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management; and computer software means for permitting such customer to configure a large set of variables in such computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users without affecting full operation of such direct automatic management; wherein such computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management comprises computer software means for automatically measuring efforts of each user of such community, computer software means for automatic setting of goals for each user of such community, and computer software means for automatically managing a reward system to reward efforts of each user of such community; and computer software means for formulating at least one request for such particular subject information, automatically selecting at least one such user to receive such at
- this invention provides a business system, supplied by a developer, relating to use by customers having websites comprising web server computer systems of the type involving supporting a community of users, having client computer systems, interacting with at least one database to search for particular subject information, comprising providing, for website use: computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management; and computer software means for permitting such customer to configure a large set of variables in such computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users without affecting full operation of such direct automatic management; wherein such computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management comprises computer software means for automatically measuring efforts of each user of such community, computer software means for automatic setting of goals for each user of such community, and computer software means for automatically managing a reward system to reward efforts of each user of such community; and computer integration means for providing from within at least one other computer-based system at least one first button for accessing at least one such
- Such a business system further comprising: computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one second button to individually capture for such at least one database at least one such particular subject information; and computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one third button for formulating at least one user request for at least one such particular subject information.
- Such a business system further comprising: computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one other button for approving at least one such particular subject information; computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one additional other button for responding to such at least one request for such particular subject information; and computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one yet additional other button for displaying at least one web page of such web computer system.
- computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one other button for approving at least one such particular subject information
- computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one additional other button for responding to such at least one request for such particular subject information
- computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one yet additional other button for displaying at least one web page of such web computer system.
- Such a business system wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based spreadsheet system. Additionally, it provides such a business system wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based presentation preparation system. Also, it provides such a business system wherein such at least one other computer-based system is manufactured by Microsoft Corporation.
- this invention provides a business system, supplied by a developer, relating to usb by customers having websites comprising web server computer systems of the type inyolving supporting a community of users, having client computer systems, interacting with at leasjt one database searching for particular subject information, comprising providing, for website Use: computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management; computer software means for permitting such customer to configure a large set of variables in such computer sqftware means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such corrimunity of users without affecting full operation of such direct automatic management; where ⁇ n such computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management comprises computer software means for automatically measuring efforts of each user of such community, computer software means for automatic setting of goals for each user of such community, and computer software means for automatically managing a reward system to reward efforts of each user of such community; computer processor means for formulating at least one request for such particular subject information
- this invention provides a computer system, relating to assisting automatic request and receipt of specified information about at least one plurality of topics from at least one plurality of selected users to create at least one database of such information and to improve the usefulness and quality of such at least one database without substantial management, comprising the steps of: formulating at least one request for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics; automatically selecting at least one user of such plurality, of selected ujsers to receive such at least one request for such specified information; automatically sending such at least one request for such specified information to such at least one user; receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such specified information; and adding such received specified information to such at least one database.
- the step of formulating at least one request for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics comprises the steps of: identifying at least one topic for which such specified information is to be requested; formulating such at least one request for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics; assigning at least one priority to each such at least one request; and assigning each such at least one request to at least one primary topic.
- the step of automatically sending such at least one request for such specified information to such at least one user comprises the steps of: setting the daily maximum number of such requests to be sent to such at least one user; specifying the timeframe for re-sending each such at least one request to such at least one user; selecting each such at least one user to receive such at least one request; sending such at least one request to such at least one user; recording content of such at least one request and delivery information for such at least one user; and adding at least one transmittal record, which includes at least one identifier of such at least one request, of delivery information for such at least one user and date and time of transmission, to such at least one database.
- the step of sending such at least one request to such at least one user comprises the steps of: identifying such plurality of users with known expertise in such primary topic of such at least one request; for each such at least one request, referring to the latest such at least one transmittal record for each identified at least one user and such at least one request combination; selecting only those users who have not received such request within the defined timeframe; limiting the number of such requests sent daily to each of such selected users knowledgeable about such at least one of such plurality of topics; limiting the number of such selected users which may receive such at least one request to a daily maximum percentage of all possible such selected users; and sending such at least one request to selected at least one user who has not received such at least one request within such specified timeframe for each such at least one request.
- the step of adding such received specified information to such at least one database comprises the steps of: adding at least one receipt record, which includes at least one identifier of such at least one request, reply information for such at least one user and date and time of receipt of, to such at least one database; approval of such at least one reply information by such at least one authorized user; adding such at least one reply information to such at least one database.
- the. specified information about the at least one plurality of topics comprises at least one rating of at least one reply of at least one other user.
- such at least one selected user comprises a person knowledgeable about such at least one selected topic.
- this invention provides a computer system, relating to assisting automatic request and receipt of specified information about at least one plurality of topics from at least one plurality of selected users to create at least one database of such information and to improve the usefulness and quality of such at least one database without substantial management: processor means for automatically selecting, for at least one request formulated for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics, at least one user of such plurality of selected users to receive such at least one request for such specified information; processor means for automatically sending such at least one request for such specified information to such at least one user; processor means for receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such specified information; and processor means for adding such received specified information to such at least one database.
- processor means for automatically selecting, for at least one request formulated for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics, at least one user of such plurality of selected users to receive such at least one request for such specified information comprises: processor means for identifying at least one topic for which such specified information is to be requested; computer input means for assisting formulating such at least one request for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics; computer input means for assisting assigning at least one priority to each such at least one request; computer input means for assisting assigning each such at least one request to at least one primary topic; and processor means for automatically selecting at least one user of such plurality of selected users to receive such at least one request for such specified information.
- processor means for automatically sending such at least one request for such specified information to such at least one user comprises: computer input means for assisting setting the daily maximum number of such requests to be sent such to at least one user; computer input means for assisting specifying the timeframe for re-sending each such at least one request to such at least one user; processor means for selecting each such at least one user to receive such at least one request; processor means for sending such at least one request to such at least one user; processor means for recording content of such at least one request and delivery information for such at least one user; and processor means adding at least one transmittal record, which includes at least one identifier of such at least one request, of delivery information for such at least one user and date and time of transmission, to such at least one database.
- processor means for sending such at least one request to such at least one user comprises: processor means for identifying such plurality of users with known expertise in such primary topic of such at least one request; for each such at least one request, processor means for referring to the latest such at least one transmittal record for each identified at least one user and such at least one request combination; processor means for selecting only those users who have not received such request within the defined timeframe; processor means for limiting the number of such requests sent daily to each of such selected users knowledgeable about such at least one of such plurality of topics; processor means for limiting the number of such selected users which may receive such at least one request to a daily maximum percentage of all possible such selected users; and processor means for sending such at least one request to selected at least one user who has not received such at least one request within such specified timeframe for each such at least one request.
- processor means for adding such received specified information to such at least one database comprises: processor means for adding at least one receipt record, which includes at least one identifier of such at least one request, reply information for such at least one user and date and time of receipt of, to such at least one database; processor means for approval of such at least one reply information by such at least one authorized user; and processor means for adding such at least one reply information to such at least one database.
- the specified information about the at least one plurality of topics comprises at least one rating of at least one reply of at least one other user.
- such at least one selected user comprises a person knowledgeable about such at least one selected topic.
- this invention provides a computer method relating to automatically transferring displayed information between computer programs comprising the steps of: establishing at least one inter-program link between at least one first computer program and at least one second computer program; starting such at least one first computer program; highlighting information within at least one first display area controlled by such at least one first program; accessing such at least one second computer program using such at least one inter-program link; and automatically transferring such highlighted information to at least one second display area controlled by such at least one second computer program.
- GLOSSARY OF GENERAL TERMS AND ACRONYMS The following terms and acronyms explained below as background and are used throughout the detailed description: Client-Server.
- a model of interaction in a distributed system in which a program at one site sends a request to a program at another site and waits for a response.
- the requesting program is called the "client,” and the program which responds to the request is called the “server.”
- the client is typically a "Web browser” which runs on a user's computer; the program which responds to Web browser requests at a Web site is commonly referred to as a "Web server.”
- DNS Domain Name System
- An Internet service that translates domain names (which are alphabetic identifiers) into IP addresses (which are numeric identifiers for machines on a TCP/IP network).
- This term is used interchangeably with the term "subject” and is intended to have the same definition.
- HyperText Markup Language HTML
- HTML HyperText Markup Language
- HTML tags can be used to create links to other websites and other Web documents (commonly referred to as "hyperlinks").
- HTTP HyperText Transport Protocol
- HTTP includes a number of different types of messages that can be sent from the client to the server to request different types of server actions. For example, a "GET" message, which has the format GET, causes the server to return the document or file located at the specified Universal Resource Locator (URL).
- URL Universal Resource Locator
- Internet A collection of interconnected (public and/or private) networks that are linked together by a set of standard protocols to form a distributed network.
- Java A general purpose programming language developed by Sun Microsystems. Java has a number of features that make the language well-suited for use on the World Wide Web. Small Java applications are called Java applets and can be downloaded from a Web server and run on a personal computer by a Java-compatible Web browser, such as Netscape Navigator or Microsoft Explorer. Java Servlets. A small Java-based program designed to perform a specific task within a Web server environment. Java Servlets are analogous to Java applets except they are designed to only run on the Web server.
- Java Virtual Machine A set of applications that create a run time environment for executing Java code.
- JRun A server-side extension that allows a Web server to execute Java Servlets for the processing and display of information.
- JRun is a widely adopted engine for developing and deploying server-side Java applications that use Java Servlets and JavaServer Pages (JSP).
- Java Database Connectivity JDBC
- JDBC Java API developed by JavaSoft, a subsidiary of Sun Microsystems of Mountain View, California. JDBC enables Java programs to execute SQL statements, which allows Java programs to interact with any SQL-compliant database.
- JDBC relational database management systems
- ODBC Open DataBase Connectivity
- TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol
- TCP/IP A standard Internet protocol (or set of protocols) which specifies how two computers exchange data over the Internet.
- TCP/IP handles issues such as packetization, packet addressing, handshaking and error correction.
- URL Uniform Resource Locator
- the port specification is optional, and if none is entered by the user, the Web browser defaults to the standard port for whatever service is specified as the protocol. For example, if HTTP is specified as the protocol, the Web browser will use the HTTP default port.
- the machine address in this example is the domain name for the computer or device on which the file is located.
- User. Term used to refer to either guests or contributors, or both, where no distinction of role is required.
- World Wide Web Used herein to refer generally to both (1) a distributed collection of interlinked, user-viewable hypertext documents (commonly referred to as "Web documents", “Web pages”, “electronic pages” or “home pages") that are accessible via the Internet, and (2) the client and server software components that provide user access to such documents using standardized Internet protocols.
- FIG. 1 is diagrammatical overview of the Internet communications used in the instant system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is diagrammatical overview of the website computer system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is diagrammatical overview of the relationship among the website servers and the users according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a diagrammatical view of the preferred instant software system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a diagrammatical view of the activity database according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is a diagrammatical view of the experience management automation according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a diagrammatical view of reporting management automation according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a diagrammatical view of the user management automation according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a diagrammatical view of the awards and contests management automation according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 is a diagrammatical view of the e-mail management automation according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 11 is a diagrammatical view of a preferred business method according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a preferred method of initially and continuously requesting user participation in adding subjects (such as experiences or Sales Advice) to the database according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 13 is a schematic view of a preferred irieth ⁇ d of initially and continuously requesting user participation in rating the quality and value of subjects (such as experiences or Sales Advice) in the database according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a preferred method of initially and continuously requesting user participation in adding subjects (such as experiences or Sales Advice) to the database according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 13 is a schematic view of a preferred irieth ⁇ d of initially and continuously requesting user participation in rating the quality and value of subjects (such as experiences or Sales
- FIG. 14 is a detail logic diagram of the set up and automation of requesting user participation in adding subjects to the database according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 15 is a detail logic diagram of the set up and automation of requesting user participation in rating the quality and value of subjects (such as experiences or Sales Advice) in the database according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 16 is a sample of a preferred login screen for the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 17 is a sample of a preferred home page screen for the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 18 illustrates a sample preferred screen for Mypage of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 19 provides a sample of the preferred first set up and management screen for the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 20 provides a sample preferred screen for the adding a new question (request for information) to the database for the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG.21 illustrates a sample preferred screen for inputting or editing the content of an email message requesting information about a topic from a selected user for the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 22 illustrates the details of an email message requesting information about a topic from a selected user for the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 20 provides a sample preferred screen for the adding a new question (request for information) to the database for the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG.21 illustrates a sample preferred screen for inputting or editing the content of an email message
- FIG. 23 illustrates a sample of an email, received by a user, requesting information regarding a specific issue as automatically generated by the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention:
- FIG. 24 illustrates a sample of an email; received by a user, after response by the user to the request for information regarding a specific issue as automatically generated by the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 25 provides a sample email automatically generated and sent to a user with approval authority after receipt by the system of response to an email request by a user. This email message is generated by the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 24 illustrates a sample of an email; received by a user, after response by the user to the request for information regarding a specific issue as automatically generated by the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 25 provides a sample email automatically generated and sent to a user with approval authority after receipt by the system of
- FIG. 26 illustrates sample screen display a list of submitted information and rating awaiting approval by an authorized user according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 27 illustrates the detail review and approval screen utilized by an authorized user to review information submitted by another user which was requested by the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 28 illustrates confirmation and thank you screen presented to a user after approving information submitted as a result of a request from the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 29 is a sample screen which presents the listing of all unanswered questions (requests for information) sent to a user by the dynamic content generation module of the system and a summary count of the user's overall status with regard to questions (requests for information) received from the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 30 illustrates the screens used to respond to an unanswered question (request for information) sent to others by in the user's area of expertise the dynamic content generation module of the system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 31 is an example of screen that presents a list of questions (requests for information), sent from the dynamic content generation module of the system to users, which have not been answered.
- FIG. 32 is an example of screen which permits authorized users to modify key parameters to automatically control the frequency and quantity of requests sent to selected users according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 33 is an example of screen that preferably permits authorized users to set the number of question each expert in a functional area of the company may receive each day according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 34 illustrates an example of the initial screen for setting up toolbar integration with Microsoft Office products according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 35 illustrates an example of the installation start screen for Microsoft Office toolbar integration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 36 illustrates an example of the verify user id and password screen which ensures only authorized users can install Microsoft Office toolbar integration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 37 illustrates an example of the Microsoft Outlook Options dialog box which includes an additional tab for the present invention according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 38 illustrates an example of the options screen for the present invention accessed from within the Microsoft Outlook Options dialog box after installation of the Microsoft Office toolbar integration module according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 39 illustrates an example of how integration toolbar of the present invention is included within Microsoft Outlook, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 37 illustrates an example of the verify user id and password screen which ensures only authorized users can install Microsoft Office toolbar integration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 37 illustrates an example of the Microsoft Outlook Options dialog box which includes an additional tab for the present invention according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 38 illustrates an example of the options screen for the
- FIG. 40 illustrates an example screen display after the present invention was selected using the "StreetSmarts" text link from the integration toolbar from within Microsoft Outlook, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 41 is a diagrammatic representation of the various text links available on the integration toolbar of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 42 is an example dialog presented to a user after selecting the "Ask Question” text link on the integration toolbar of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 41 is a diagrammatic representation of the various text links available on the integration toolbar of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 42 is an example dialog presented to a user after selecting the "Ask Question” text link on the integration toolbar of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 43 is an example dialog box presented to ⁇ user after selecting the "Add Category” button from within the "Ask a Question” dialog box of the present invention which permits a user to complete and submit a question to the other users of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 44 is an example dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Add . Attachment” button from within the "Ask a Question” dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to add a document as an attachment to a question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 43 is an example dialog box presented to ⁇ user after selecting the "Add Category" button from within the "Ask a Question” dialog box of the present invention which permits a user to complete and submit a question to the other users of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 44 is an example dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Add . Attachment" button from within the "Ask a Question” dialog box of the
- FIG. 45 is an example dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Add Link” button from within the "Ask a Question” dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to add an URL address link to a question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG.46 is an example Ask a Question dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Options" button from within the "Ask a Question” dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to select additional options for the current question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 47 illustrates an example dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Attachments" button from within the "Options" dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to select attachment options for the current question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 48 is an example dialog box presented, to a user after selecting the "Recipients" button from within the "Options" dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to select additional individuals and/or functional areas to receive the current question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 49 illustrates an example dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Address Book” button from within the "Select Recipients” dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to select particular individuals to receive the current question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 50 is an example screen display of a completed "Ask a Question" dialog according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 51 is an example Add Advice dialog presented to a user after selecting the "Add Advice” text link on the integration toolbar of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 52 illustrates an example dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Keywords" button from within the "Add Advice" dialog box of the present invention . permitting a user to select particular keywords for association with the current item of advice, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 53 is an example screen display of a completed "Add Advice" dialog according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 54 is an example Unanswered Questions Queue dialog presented to a user after selecting the "Questions (n)" text link on the integration toolbar of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 55 presents an example Unapproved Advice Queue dialog presented to a user after selecting the "Approvals (n)" text link on the integration toolbar of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 56 illustrates the screen display used to review and approve submitted advice according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 57 illustrates how the integration toolbar of the present invention is presented from within Microsoft Excel, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 58 illustrates how the integration toolbar of the present invention is presented from within Microsoft Word, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention!.
- FIG. 59 illustrates how the integration toolbar of the present invention is presented from within Microsoft PowerPoint, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- a method and system for creating and maintaining a database of subject material primarily related to sales and sales related activities, knowledge and success stories.
- users are provided the opportunity to search the database and to identify subject matter relevant to the users' needs either through a key word search or category browsing. Additionally, users may preferably search for experts with particular knowledge relevant to their needs. Users may also search for and review success stories.
- the present invention preferably comprises a computer system 1-8.
- the computer system 1-8 comprises input and output devices as is well known in the art.
- the computer system 1-8 preferably comprises a display screen or monitor 1-4, a keyboard 1-16, a printer 1-14, a mouse 1-6, etc.
- the computer system 1-8 further preferably comprises a database 1-2 for storage of the data and software comprising preferred embodiments of the present invention.
- the computer system 1-8 is preferably connected to the Internet 1-12 that serves as the presently preferred communications medium.
- the Internet 1-12 comprises a global network of networks and computers, public and/or private.
- the Internet 1-12 is the preferable connection method by the users 1-18, 1-20, 1-22 and 1-n in preferred embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 the computer system 1-8 is shown in more detail.
- the computer system 1-8 in a preferred embodiment comprises a database server.1-24 and a web server 1-26.
- the database server 1-24 preferably runs in a Windows Server (offered by Microsoft Corporation) operating system environment and preferably utilizes Oracle Database (offered by Oracle Corporation) as the database engine.
- the database server 1-24 preferably processes all background processes and email. Preferably all background processes are written in Java and run as separate execution threads on a pre-set schedule.
- the web server 1-26 also preferably runs in an operating system environment using Windows Server (offered by Microsoft Corporation). The web server 1-26 operates as the web server and the servlet engine. Preferably the web server software is written in JAVA.
- FIG. 3 a simplified functional diagram of a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.
- This figure shows the preferred relationships between a user 1-18 (as an example of any number of users 1-18, 1-20, 1-22, 1-n), the Internet 1-12, the web server 1-26 and the database server 1-24.
- a user 1-18 requests a page from the web site of the present invention operating on the web server 1-26.
- the user 1-18 is preferably connected via the Internet 1-12, and the web page request initiates a call to a Java servlet housed on the web server 1-26.
- the Java servlet is run by the JRun engine which makes at least one request to the database server 1-24, the database server 1-24 completes the servlet's request and transmits the requested data back to the web server 1-26.
- the web server 1-26 then transmits the completed HTML page containing the data requested by the user 1-18 through the Internet 1-12 to the user 1-18.
- FIG. 4 a high level functional diagram of the process flows and functions in a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.
- the client sets each management option preferably using the Configuration and Management Module, used herein refer to the subsystem of the instant overall system used by customers (website owners) to configure the instant system as preferred by such customer (at least embodying herein providing variables in such software management systems to be configurable by such customer without affecting such direct management operations; and computer software means for permitting such customer to configure a large set of variables in such computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users without affecting full operation of such direct automatic management).
- the Configuration and Management Module preferably comprises the following modules which will be explained in greater detail herein below: Subject Management, User Management, Rewards Management, E-Mail Set Up Requirements, and Reporting Parameters.
- the Configuration and Management Modules are coupled to the database tables.
- the database tables preferably comprise the following modules that will also be explained in greater detail herein below: Management Settings, Users, Subjects, History, and Status. (For more detailed descriptions of the Configuration and Management Modules see U.S. patent application publication number 20010047290, herein incorporated in total by reference.) Also shown is that the users may perform certain tasks or otherwise exercise functions, preferably comprising: Search for Subjects, View Subjects, Add/Change Subjects, Rate Subjects, Comment on Subjects, Approve Adds/Changes, and Ask/ Answer Questions (at least embodying herein computer interface means for individually capturing at least one experience of at least some of such plurality of such users; at least embodying herein individually capturing for such at least one database at least one experience of at least some of such plurality; at least embodying herein computer interface means for user-searching to select at least one desired kind of such stored at least one experience; at least embodying herein user-searching to select at least one desired kind of stored experience; at least embodying herein computer processor means for performing such user-
- the database 1-2 includes the following tables: Domain Tables: These tables contain the required reference information used to ensure accuracy and consistency of the subject content, guest and contributor information. And (see FIG. 4) these tables are preferably part of management settings.
- Application Status Tables These tables contain information necessary to manage user interactions such as the "state" or status of each active guest or contributor. Status information includes, but is not necessarily limited to, information such as user id, the last screen used, current screen in use, and start of the current session. See FIG. 4 under "Status”.
- System Tables These tables contain the parameters required to control the behavior of the system.
- the user tables contain all data relevant to registered users of the system. Information includes demographic, system role points earned, points goals, personal preferences, book marked subjects of personal interest. See FIG. 4 under "Users”.
- Subject Tables The subject tables contain all information collected about a subject. For example, all data describing the subject, location of the subject, guest ratings, guest comments, etc. are included here (at least embodying herein computer database means for storing such captured at least one experience associated with at least one of a plurality of kinds of experience; and at least embodying herein storing in such at least one database such experience). See FIG. 4 under "Subjects”. History Tables.
- the history tables contain all information collected about user activities, page views, etc. See FIG. 4 under "History”.
- FIG. 5 an overview functional diagram of the Activity Database of the main Database 1-2 (see FIG. 1 and FIG. 4) is shown.
- the Activity Database preferably comprises Activities performed by Users that cause data additions/changes to the Activity Database.
- the Users comprise: Guests and Users, (also called Contributors herein).
- the Users may take various actions or interact preferably as follows: Guests may View Subjects. In contrast, Users may View: Subjects, Overall Ratings, and Comments Made, and.
- Users may also: indicate Agreement with comments, rate comments of other users, ask questions of other users, answer questions from other users and may submit Modify Subject Requests, Delete Subject Requests, and Ratings Reset Requests.
- activities by the Users may preferably be reflected in the Activity Database.
- the Activity Database fields preferably comprise: Date/time, Subject, User ID, Activity completed, Words & ratings, Comment agreement, and Subject 3rd page viewed fields.
- FIG. 6 a high level functional diagram of the Subject Management Automation software is shown.
- the core of the Subject Management Automation software is preferably comprised within the Configuration and Management Module.
- the Configuration and Management Module performs Subject Management that preferably comprises the activities of allowing the Customer to: Set subject deletion overall rating threshold, number of months, and minimum rating count; Set ratings removal aging criteria; and Set use of approval queues and time frame for approvals to move (at least embodying herein providing such computer systems to comprise software management systems to directly manage such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management; at least embodying herein computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management).
- the customer preferably initially evaluates and sets each of these configuration and management options that are comprised within the Configuration and Management Module as desired.
- the Subject Management settings are preferably placed into the Subject Database where they affect and are stored in the Web Site Configuration & Management Settings table.
- Users may interact with the Subject Management Automation software and perform activities that preferably comprise: Search for Subjects, Add/Change Subjects, Rate Subjects, Comment on Subjects, Approve Adds/Changes, Ask Questions of other users, and Answer Questions from other users. These activities affect the Subject Database tables: Users; Subjects (Content); Activity History; and Application Status.
- the Subject Database tables' content and/or changes are preferably input to the Background Processes Module which will preferably: Remove subjects with overall ratings below threshold; Calculate each user's personal credibility rating for use in calculating the subject ratings; Remove old ratings and recalculate ratings; and Remove old comments.
- the Subject Database tables content and/or changes are also preferably input to the Reporting Module which will assist implementation of the working of Approval Queues for subject additions, updates, and deletions. Referring to FIG. 7, a high level functional diagram of the Reporting Management Automation software is shown.
- the core of the Reporting Management Automation software is preferably comprised within the Configuration and Management Module.
- the Configuration and Management Module comprises Reporting Parameters that preferably comprises the activity of allowing the Customer to Set Reporting parameters, time frame and level of detail.
- the customer preferably initially evaluates and sets the configuration and management options for the Reporting Parameters that are comprised within the Configuration and Management Module as desired.
- the Reporting Management settings are preferably placed into the Subject Database where they affect and are stored in the Web Site Configuration & Management Settings table.
- Users may interact with the Reporting Management Automation software and preferably perform activities that: Search for Subjects, Add/Change Subjects, Rate Subjects, Comment on Subjects, Approve Adds/Changes, Ask Questions of other users, and Answer Questions from other users. These activities affect the Subject Database tables: Users; Subjects (Content); Activity History; and Application Status.
- the Subject Database tables content and/or changes are preferably input to the Customer/Management Reporting module which will perform the functions of providing reporting for: Overall User Status; Overall Status; Overall Content Status; Detail Content Status; Overall Status; and Detail Status.
- the Customer/Management Reporting module which will perform the functions of providing reporting for: Overall User Status; Overall Status; Overall Content Status; Detail Content Status; Overall Status; and Detail Status.
- FIG. 8 a high level functional diagram of the User Management Automation software is shown.
- the core of the User Management Automation software is preferably comprised within the Configuration and Management Module.
- the Configuration and Management Module comprises User Management Automation software that comprises preferably activities to: Set goals for and users; and Set standards of performance (at least embodying herein automatically setting of goals for each user of such community; at least embodying herein computer software means for automatic setting of goals for each user of such community).
- the customer initially evaluates and sets the configuration and management options for the User Management Automation software, comprised within the Configuration and Management Module, as desired.
- the User Management settings are placed into the Subject Database where they preferably affect system operation and are stored in the Web Site Configuration & Management Settings table (at least embodying herein providing such computer systems to comprise software management systems to directly manage such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management; at least embodying herein computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management).
- Web Site Configuration & Management Settings table at least embodying herein providing such computer systems to comprise software management systems to directly manage such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management; at least embodying herein computer software means for direct automatic management of such at least one database and such community of users essentially without customer website management.
- Users may interact with the User Management Automation software and perform activities that preferably: Search for Subjects, Add/Change Subjects, Rate Subjects, Comment on Subjects, Approve Adds/Changes, Ask Questions of other users, and Answer Questions from other users. These activities affect the Subject Database tables: Users; Subjects (Content); Activity History; and Application Status.
- the Subject Database tables content and/or changes are preferably input to the Reporting module which provides information to the Users preferably comprising: Reports "to do's" to users; Activity Counts (adds, updates, ratings, comments, approvals; Reports progress against goals for users; Report comments made; and Report top "x" number of contributors.
- FIG. 9 a high level functional diagram of the Rewards Management Automation software is shown.
- the core of the Rewards Management Automation software is preferably comprised within the Configuration and Management Module.
- the Configuration and Management Module comprises the Rewards Management software that comprises, preferably, activities to: Set point values for each user & activity; Set dollar ($) value of points (optionally); Set up contest parameters e.g.: Number of entry points parameter, winners are selected randomly from the entrants, etc.; and set the setting of the % or the number (#) of people on the top lists (Top 100 subjects, top Contributors, Top Ratings, etc.).
- the customer initially evaluates and sets the configuration and management options for the Rewards Management that are comprised within the Configuration and Management Module as desired.
- the Rewards Management settings are placed into the Subject Database where they preferably affect and are stored in the Web Site Configuration & Management Settings table (at least embodying herein automatically managing at least one reward system to reward management efforts of each user of such community; at least embodying herein computer software means for automatically managing a reward system to reward efforts of each user of such community).
- Users. may interact with the Rewards Management Automation software and perform activities that preferably: Search for Subjects, Add/Change Subjects, Rate Subjects, Comment on Subjects, Approve Adds/Changes, Ask Questions of other users, and Answer Questions from other users.
- the Subject Database tables content and/or changes are preferably input to the Reporting module which provides information preferably comprising: Report points earned and money equivalent (optional); and Report contest winners.
- FIG. 10 a high level functional diagram of the E-mail Management Automation software is shown.
- the core of the E-mail Management Automation software is preferably comprised within the Configuration and Management Module.
- the Configuration and Management Module performs E-mail Management that preferably comprises the E-mail Set Up Requirements activities of allowing the Customer to: Set content for automatic e-mail messages, and Set Default e-mails addresses.
- the customer For each of these activities, the customer preferably initially evaluates and sets each of these configuration and management options that are comprised within the Configuration and Management Module as desired.
- the E-mail Management settings are preferably placed into the Subject Database where they affect and are stored in the Web Site Configuration & Management Settings table.
- Users may interact with the E-mail Management Automation software and preferably perform activities that: Search for Subjects, Add/Change Subjects, Rate Subjects, Comment on Subjects, Approve Adds/Changes, Ask Questions of other users, and Answer Questions from other users.
- the Subject Database tables content and/or changes are preferably input to the E-mail Module which will preferably provide for Automated e-mail notices comprising: Motivational emails of lives touched, etc.; Contest Winners; Information of Interest (Subjects, etc.); and 'On the fly' emails to individual users.
- Web Site Automated Management Preferably the Background Processes Module will preferably: Remove subjects (advice) with overall ratings below threshold; Remove subjects whose expiration date has passed with poor word ratings (optional); Calculate each user's personal credibility rating for ratings; Remove old ratings and recalculate ratings; and Remove old comments.
- the Website preferably comprises components and associated programming of: Questions and Answers, Content & Ratings (of usefulness in one ore more steps of a licensee defined sales cycle) Dynamic Content Generation (DCG), Toolbar Integration, Management, Reporting, SA Spy and Rewards/Performance Management.
- the Website interaction between the User Community (typically sales and sales related personnel) and the Website comprises not only rewards, but also performance feedback with regard to usage and contribution levels.
- the Website accepts content through interface software from .Customer's various existing systems, providing users a much broader and deeper set of Content available in a single database.
- the User Community may also obtain required information through the Question and Answer process which provides methods for experts to respond to questions posed by Users and make the questions and responses available to the User Community in the same manner as all other Entries. Additionally, Users may request automatic desktop notification of new Entries in their areas of interest through configuration and installation of the SA Spy module. A variety of reports are also available to the User Community which provide summary information and permit "drill down" to successively greater levels of detail.
- the User Community now provides to the Website not merely Entries and Overall Ratings, but instead Entries, Usefulness Ratings and where in the sales cycle the Entry is most useful.
- the Website essentially does not require Management by a Deveioper/Operator/Site Manager and that the software of the Website performs management functions substantially automatically. (For more detailed descriptions of the automated management methods see U.S. patent application publication number 20010047290, herein inco ⁇ orated totally by reference.)
- the Website substantially automatically interacts with the User Community to establish and maintain breadth, quality and currency of the Content through the Dynamic Content Generator (DCG).
- DCG Dynamic Content Generator
- Customers license the web site software from the developer based on the expected number of persons who will be granted access.
- the dynamic content generation module is preferably intended to assist web site managers or management in the initial creation of database content ("seeding") and then to continuously assist in the updating and evaluation of existing content. Once initial parameters and requests are established the process is capable of operating largely without management intervention.
- the web site manager or management is preferably required to make adjustments only when additional areas of information are required or other parameters require modification. All user responses are reviewed and, if approved, added to the database as an experience, sales advice or other information accessible by other system users.
- the dynamic content generation module through active solicitation of selected expert users, can preferably dramatically increase the amount and quality of database content.
- the dynamic content generation module preferably may also be used to actively request ratings of existing database entries by selected expert users. Referring now to FIG. 12, a preferred content generation process for initially and continuously requesting user participation in adding information (such as experiences or sales advice) to the database is shown.
- the process of requesting information starts with initial step of system set up 1011 in which the application is made available and web site manager completes initial training and familiarization:
- the web site manager will also review and complete the required'email forms used for sending the appropriate questions and receiving the responses as shown in FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 both at the outset of system startup and during the life of the system (at least embodying herein initially and continuously seeding such at least one database).
- the email form is a "merge document" which permits variables to be inserted in the standard text of the email message so that each recipient only receives questions appropriate to their area of expertise.
- An example of completed merged email forms is shown in FIG. 23.
- An example of merged email form completed by a user is shown in FIG. 24.
- the web site manager or management preferably reviews the at least two hundred predefined questions delivered with the application and identifies those areas, or topic categories, which are highest priority for building information content in the database (at least embodying herein identifying at least one topic for which such specified information is to be requested; at least embodying herein processor means for identifying at least one topic for which such specified information is to be requested).
- the web site manager will begin to formulate requests for information in each high priority area in step formulate/edit questions 1014 (at least embodying herein formulating such at least one request for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics; at least embodying herein assigning each such at least one request to at least one primary topic; at least embodying herein computer input means for assisting formulating such at least one request for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics; at least embodying herein computer input means for assisting assigning each such at least one request to at least one primary topic).
- formulate/edit questions 1014 at least embodying herein formulating such at least one request for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics; at least embodying herein assigning each such at least one request to at least one primary topic; at least embodying herein computer input means for assisting formulating such at least one request for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics; at least embodying herein computer input means for assisting assigning each such at least one request to at least one primary topic).
- the priorities assigned to questions are used to ensure the most important questions (requests for information) are sent to users most often (at least embodying herein assigning at least one priority to each such at least one request; at least embodying herein computer input means for assisting assigning at least one priority to each such at least one request).
- the web site manager or authorized user is presented with the home page as shown in FIG. 17.
- the authorized user selects the text link "set up center” and from the set up center page (FIG. 34) the user may select the text link "Dynamic Content Generation Admin" which will present the Content Question Selection screen which presents a list of questions, an example of the screen is shown in FIG. 19.
- the authorized user preferably then selects the text link "Mypage” to move to the Mypage screen as shown in FIG. 18 and from Mypage (FIG. 18) the user may select the text link "Dynamic Content Generation Admin" which will present the Content Question Selection screen which presents a list of questions, an example of the screen is shown in FIG. 19.) Selecting the "edit” text link associated with any question preferably presents a detail screen for editing an existing question as shown in FIG. 20. The same screen is preferably used for adding new questions when the authorized user selects the "add a new question” text link as shown in FIG. 19. As shown in FIG.
- each question is assigned a priority value and associated with a topic area (category is used throughout interchangeably with topic area) and the frequency with which each question is re-sent to expert users in the question's primary category (topic area).
- topic categories or categories are used to organize database content and to provide a means for classifying the expertise of users.
- the web-site manager or management sets the number of dynamic content generation questions each expert may receive each day and the percentage of experts to receive question each day (at least embodying herein limiting the number of such requests sent daily to each of such selected users knowledgeable about such at least one of such plurality of topics; at least embodying herein processor means for limiting the number of such requests sent daily to each of such selected users knowledgeable about such at least one of such plurality of topics).
- 33 illustrates the functional area administration screen where the value for the number of questions per day is set for each functional area and the timeframe for re-sending the questions (typically an organizational unit) (at least embodying herein setting the daily maximum number of such requests to be sent to such at least one user; at least embodying herein specifying the timeframe for re-sending each such at least one request to such at least one user; at least embodying herein computer input means for assisting setting the daily maximum number of such requests to be sent such to at least one user; computer input means for assisting specifying the timeframe for re- sending each such at least one request to such at least one user).
- the timeframe for re-sending the questions typically an organizational unit
- the functional area administration screen is preferably accessed from the set up center page (FIG. 34), or optionally, when used, from the Mypage screen as illustrated in FIG. 18.
- FIG. 32 is an example of preferred system administration screen where the percentage of expert users to receive questions each day is set.
- the administration screen as shown in FIG. 32 is preferably accessed the from the set up center page (FIG. 34), or optionally, when used, from the from Mypage (FIG.
- the dynamic content generation process is configured to generate questions (requests for information) each day.
- the dynamic content generation module uses the parameters and questions to send email forms to expert users each day.
- FIG. 14 The logic process utilized for selecting each addressee is presented in FIG. 14. The process of requesting information from expert users continues each day until all questions in the database have been considered. Additionally, questions are considered in order of priority to ensure the highest priority questions (requests for information) are requested most often. Referring now to FIG. 14.
- step 14 preferably the process begins with selection of an active question from the database, as shown in step get next question 3011 (at least embodying herein formulating at least one request for such knowledge relevant to such at least one common goal; and at least embodying herein formulating at least one request for such particular subject information; at least embodying herein formulating at least one request for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics; at least embodying herein processor means for automatically selecting, for at least one request formulated for such specified information about at least one of such plurality of topics, at least one user of such plurality of selected users to receive such at least one request for such specified information).
- a user identified as expert in the topic category associated with the question is selected in step get next expert in category 3012. In the step max today?
- 3013 preferably the number of information requests sent to the selected expert user is compared to the maximum number allowed for the expert user's functional area (see FIG. 33) (at least embodying herein limiting the number of such selected users which may receive such at least one request to a daily maximum percentage of all possible such selected users; at least embodying herein processor means for limiting the number of such selected users which may receive such at least one request to a daily maximum percentage of all possible such selected users). If number of questions sent on this day exceeds the maximum preferably the expert user is exempted and control is returned to the step get next expert in category 3012. If the number of questions sent on this day does not exceed the maximum number of questions, control preferably passes to the step in timeframe? 3014.
- this question may be asked of any expert user (at least embodying herein for each such at least one request, referring to the latest such at least one transmittal record for each identified at least one user and such at least one request combination; at least embodying herein for each such at least one request, processor means for referring to the latest such at least one transmittal record for each identified at least one user and such at least one request combination).
- the expert user is exempted from the question and control is returned to the step get next expert in category 3012 (at least embodying herein selecting only those users who have not received such request within the defined timeframe; at least embodying herein processor means for selecting only those users who have not received such request within the defined timeframe).
- control is preferably passed to the step add expert to selection pool 3015 where the expert user will be included in the pool of experts eligible to receive the question (at least embodying herein sending such at least one request to selected at least one user who has not received such at least one request within such specified timeframe for each such at least one request; at least embodying herein processor means for sending such at least one request to selected at least one user who has not received such at least one request within such specified timeframe for each such at least one request).
- control passes to step any more experts? 3016 where the next expert user in the topic category for the current question is found until all expert users have been considered.
- step randomly select expert 3017 where eligible expert users are selected to receive the current question (at least embodying herein computer processor means for automatically selecting, relating to at least one request formulated to request specified knowledge about at least one of such plurality of kinds of experience, at least one user of such plurality of users to receive such at least one request for such specified knowledge; at least embodying herein automatically selecting at least one user of such group of users to receive such at least one request for such relevant knowledge; at least embodying herein automatically selecting at least one such user to receive such at least one request for such particular subject information; at least embodying herein automatically selecting at least one user of such plurality of selected users to receive such at least one request for such specified information; at least embodying herein selecting each such at least one user to receive such at least one request; at least embodying herein processor means for automatically sending such at least one request for such specified information to such at least one user; at least embodying herein processor means for automatically selecting at least one user of such plurality of selected users
- the percentage of eligible expert users selected is preferably compared to the percentage specified to receive questions each day in the step max % of pool? 3018. If the percentage selected is less than the maximum percentage (as shown in FIG. 32) the random selection process preferably continues and the questions are merged with the email form as shown in FIG.
- step send question 3019 at least embodying herein computer processor means for automatically sending such at least one request for such specified knowledge to such at least one user; and at least embodying herein automatically sending such at least one request for such relevant knowledge to such at least one user; at least embodying herein automatically sending such at least one request for such particular subject information to such at least one user; at least embodying herein automatically sending such at least one request for such specified information to such at least one user; at least embodying herein sending such at least one request to such at least one user; at least embodying herein adding at least one transmittal record, which includes at least one identifier of such at least one request, of delivery information for such at least one user and date and time of transmission, to such at least one database; at least embodying herein processor means for sending such at least one request to such at least one user; ;at least embodying herein processor means adding at least one transmittal record, which includes at least one identifier of such at least one request, of delivery information for such at least one user and date and time of transmission, to such at least one
- step 1018 preferably the messages received from the step select addressees for each question 1017 are sent to each addressee by a typical email server.
- step track addressees and messages sent 1019 each question sent and the date and time are recorded when the merged form is sent to the email server (at least embodying herein recording content of such at least one request and delivery information for such at least one user; at least embodying herein processor means for recording content of such at least one request and delivery information for such at least one user).
- This history is used to determine the last date a question was sent to each expert user in step in timeframe?
- each expert user receives the merged email form as shown in FIG. 22. After receiving the message the expert user replies to the message by completing the form appropriately, as shown in FIG. 24 and sending it back to the originating email address.
- the software preferably monitors the email "box" associated with the email address reserved for user's responses and evaluates each incoming email message, if the type of email message is a response to a question the information is reformatted and added to the review queue for review and approval by other authorized users (at least embodying herein computer processor means for receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such specified knowledge; and at least embodying herein receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such relevant knowledge; at least embodying herein receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such particular subject information; at least embodying herein receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such specified information; at least embodying herein processor means for receiving at least one reply from such at least one user to such at least one request for such specified information).
- track responses 1022 preferably the all question responses are recorded and used to report overall performance to the user.
- This performance information is displayed on the DCG Dashboard as shown in FIG. 29 (at least embodying herein adding at least one receipt record, which includes at least one identifier of such at least one request, reply information for such at least one user and date and time of receipt of, to such at least one database; at least embodying herein processor means for adding at least one receipt record, which includes at least one identifier of such at least one request, reply information for such at least one user and date and time of receipt of, to such at least one database).
- review and approve responses 1023 preferably the usual review methods are used to review each response for approval of user submitted questions and responses Users authorized to review and approve submissions will receive email notification (see FIG. 23) that a response to the email request has been submitted.
- the reviewer then preferably accesses their queue of submitted subjects waiting for approval (see FIG. 26), selects the desired item and reviews it making any necessary changes and either approves or disapproves it (See FIG. 27 and FIG.
- the response to the question is found to be satisfactory it is approved by the reviewer to be added to the database (at least embodying herein approval of such at least one reply information by such at least one authorized user; at least embodying herein processor means for approval of such at least one reply information by such at least one authorized user; at least embodying herein adding such at least one reply information to such at least one database; at least embodying herein processor means for adding such at least one reply information to such at least one database).
- the response is not satisfactory, preferably it is returned to the user for correction.
- update database content 1024 preferably the approved response is added to the database and made available to all authorized users.
- the web site manager or management may choose to repeat the cycle by starting the step identify areas of importance 1012. Rating Requests
- the rating request portion of the dynamic content generation module is preferably intended to assist web site managers and management in the ongoing evaluation of database content.
- the process is capable of operating largely without management intervention.
- the web site manager or management is preferably required to make adjustments only when additional areas of information are required or other parameters require modification.
- a preferred typical rating request process for initially and continuously requesting user ratings of database information (such as experiences or sales advice) is shown ('wherein the specified information about the at least one plurality of topics comprises at least one rating of at least one reply of at least one other user).
- the process of requesting ratings starts with initial step of system set up 1011 in which the application is made available and web site manager and management complete initial training and familiarization.
- set rating request frequency 2014 the web site manager or management decides whether rating requests are required and, if so, sets the frequency in days in which ratings are requested of users.
- each entry in the database (such as experiences or sales advice) is subject to a review request after a prescribed number of days.
- FIG. 32 An example of the screen for setting both parameters is shown in FIG. 32.
- the administration screen as shown in FIG. 32 is preferably accessed from the set up center page (FIG. 34), or optionally, when used, from the from Mypage (FIG. 18), by selecting the link "system admin" then selecting the system parameters tab and then selecting the content management tab.
- the process for selecting content for ratings operates automatically each day as shown in step select content and addressees 2015. Referring now to FIG. 15, a schematic of the logic process utilized in step select content and addressees 2015 is presented.
- the process of sending ratings requests to expert users continues each day until all expert users in the database have been considered (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one selected user comprises a person knowledgeable about such at least one selected topic).
- the process begins with selecting an expert user in the step get next expert 4011. Once the expert user is obtained the next step, get subject 4012 uses the expert user's primary topic area of expertise (category) to locate subjects (experiences or sales advice) whose primary topic area matches the expert user's primary topic area of expertise. Once a subject is obtained the elapsed time since the selected expert user last submitted a rating on the current subject is preferably compared to the rating frequency in days within which subject ratings may be requested.
- control is preferably passed to the step add subject to selection pool 4014 where the subject will be included in the pool of subjects eligible to rated. Preferably control then passes to step any more subjects? 4015 where the next subject in the topic category for the current expert user is found until all subjects have been evaluated. Once all subjects in the current expert user's topic area expertise are evaluated control is preferably passed to step randomly select subject 4016 where eligible subjects are randomly selected for generation of a rating request to the current expert user.
- max today? 4017 where preferably the number of requests sent to the selected expert user is compared to the maximum number allowed for the expert user's functional area (see FIG. 33). If number of requests sent on this day exceeds the maximum preferably the expert user is exempted and control is returned to the step get next expert 4011. If the number of requests sent on this day does not exceed the maximum number of requests (as shown in FIG. 33), control preferably passes to the step send rating request 4018. In the step send rating request 4018 the process preferably continues and the rating requests are merged with the appropriate email form and are sent to the email server. This process is preferably repeated until all expert users in the database have been have been considered. Referring now to FIG.
- step 2017, preferably the messages received from the step select content and addressees 2015 are sent to each addressee by a typical email server.
- step addressee responds to rating request 2018 each expert user receives the merged email form. After receiving the message the expert user replies to the message by completing the form appropriately and sending it back to the originating email address.
- the software preferably monitors the email "box" associated with the email address reserved for user's responses and evaluates each incoming email message, if the type of email message is a response to a rating request the information is reformatted and the appropriate subject rating is updated as shown in step update database content 2021.
- track responses 2020 preferably the all rating request responses are recorded and used to report overall performance to the user. This performance information is displayed on the DCG Dashboard as shown in FIG. 29.
- management may review the quality and quantity of information in the database in step evaluate database content 2022 using the available reporting tools (For more detailed descriptions and example reports see U.S. patent application publication number 20010047290, herein inco ⁇ orated totally by reference.).
- the dynamic content generation module also provides a facility to permit expert users, who receive requests to answer questions and rate existing subjects, to review their performance and open tasks.
- this information is presented on the user's home page in the "To Do" section, as shown in FIG. 17.
- the user may select any count in the "To Do: section for unanswered questions and then complete the request using the review queue screen as shown in FIG. 26 and preferably select any displayed unanswered questions and complete the request using the answer question screen as shown in FIG 30.
- this information may be presented in the DCG Dashboard screen as shown in FIG. 29.
- DCG Dashboard screen Users may optionally access the DCG Dashboard screen, when used, from their Mypage screen as shown in FIG. 18, by selecting the "DCG Dashboard” text link displayed within the review queue box. Once on the DCG Dashboard screen (FIG. 29) the user may select any displayed unanswered questions and complete the request using the answer question screen as shown in FIG 30. Additionally, the user optionally may select the text link "view unanswered questions in my area of expertise" which will preferably present a list of unanswered questions in the user's area of expertise, as shown in FIG. 31.
- Integration Toolbar According the a preferred embodiment of the present invention, preferably, as a means of promoting use of the instant system applicant provides a method of accessing several primary features of the instant system while the user is working in any one of several Microsoft applications, including Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint and Microsoft Outlook.
- the integration toolbar operates essentially in the same manner for all Microsoft applications. However, additional functions are available from within Microsoft Outlook because it permits the presentation of browser content within its primary window.
- each user may access this screen by selecting the text link "set up center” text link at the top of the home page (see FIG. 17).
- Each user may preferably then select the text link "Outlook Integration” shown near the bottom of the set up center page (FIG. 34 (2of 2)).
- FIG. 35 which is an example of the installation start screen for Microsoft Office toolbar integration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is presented to each user after selecting the text link "Outlook Integration".
- This screen describes the integration toolbar installation process and then permits the user to start the download and installation process by selecting the "Start Install” button.
- the verify user id and password screen which ensures only authorized users can install Microsoft Office toolbar integration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is preferably presented immediately after the user selects the "Start Install" button from the previous screen.
- the user is required to enter a valid user id and password before the installation process will proceed.
- the installation of the integration toolbar 5001 preferably proceeds without further user intervention.
- the user may receive error or warning messages to ensure various Microsoft Office applications are closed, however, preferably no further user action is required.
- the Microsoft Outlook Options dialog box will include an additional tab for the present invention according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, after successful installation of the integration toolbar 5001.
- This integration toolbar settings tab 5002 (shown as “StreetSmarts”) permits the user to complete or modify the variables associated with the instant invention as it relates to Microsoft Outlook.
- the user may select the integration toolbar settings tab 5002 to access the variables which may be modified by the user.
- the integration toolbar options screen for the present invention accessed from within the Microsoft Outlook Options dialog box after installation of the Microsoft Office toolbar integration module, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention preferably provides the user the ability make the preferred website, their user id and password and to download the current list of categories used for classifying subjects and questions.
- the user may uncheck the checkbox for "use internal browser” which will force the toolbar to start the application in a browser window outside the integrated application.
- FIG. 39 an example of haw integration toolbar 5001 of the present invention is included within Microsoft Outlook, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.
- the integration toolbar 5001 is preferably displayed for direct access of the present invention by the user.
- a user may use Microsoft Outlook in a routine manner (at least embodying herein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based email system; at least embodying herein wherein such at least one other computer-based system is manufactured by Microsoft Co ⁇ oration).
- any text link from the integration toolbar 5001 that function of the present invention is presented to the user (at least embodying herein computer integration means for providing from within at least one other computer-based system at least one first button for accessing such interface means for user-searching to select at least one desired kind of such stored at least one experience; at least embodying herein providing from within at least one other computer-based system at least one first button for i ⁇ ser-searching to select at least one desired kind of stored experience; at least embodying herein providing from within at least one other computer-based system at least one first button to so search for such particular subject information; at least embodying herein computer integration means for providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one second button for accessing such computer interface means for individually capturing at least one experience of at least some of such plurality of such users; at least embodying herein providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one second button for individually capturing for such at least one database at least one experience of at least some of such plurality; at least embodying herein providing
- yet additional other button for displaying at least one web page of such Internet client-server system; at least embodying herein providing from within such at least one other computer-based system at least one yet additional other button for displaying at least one web page of such web computer system; at least embodying herein establishing at least one inter-program link between at least one first computer program and at least one second computer program).
- Microsoft Outlook When the user has completed use of the present invention he or she may return to Microsoft Outlook by selecting any of the Microsoft Outlook functions displayed on the screen.
- an example screen display after the present invention was selected using the "StreetSmarts" text link from the integration toolbar 5001 from within Microsoft Outlook demonstrates a preferred method of displaying the present invention "inside" Microsoft Outlook.
- selecting the "StreetSmarts" text link from the integration toolbar 5001 displays the home page of the present invention which then permits the user to access any function or area of the present invention without restriction just as if the present invention had been started from within a browser.
- FIG. 41 a diagrammatic representation of the integration toolbar 5001 of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shows various text links available to the user.
- the "StreetSmarts” text link permits the user to start the present invention from within Microsoft Outlook as shown in FIG. 40.
- the combination of "Search Advice” text link and entry field is a shortcut that permits a user to immediately search for all subject entries in subject database of the present invention using the keyword search methods (For more detailed descriptions of the keyword search methods see U.S. patent application publication number 20010047290, herein inco ⁇ orated totally by reference.).
- the "Ask Question” text link is a shortcut which permits the user the immediately formulate a question and submit it to the users of the present invention. (Refer to FIG. 42 through FIG.
- the "Add Advice” text link is a shortcut which permits the user to immediately formulate a subject entry for the subject database (at least embodying herein starting such at least one first computer program).
- the "Question (n)” text link is a shortcut which permits the user to immediately access a display of all questions assigned to the user which are awaiting a response by the user.
- the number in parentheses represents a count of the number of items in the queue.
- the "Advice (n)” text link is a shortcut which permits the user to immediately access a display of all subject submissions which are awaiting a approval action by the user. (Refer to FIG.
- the number in parentheses represents a count of the number of items in the queue.
- FIG. 42 shown is the "Ask a Question” dialog presented to a user after selecting the "Ask Question” text link on the integration toolbar 5001 of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- this dialog is presented to the user in the same manner as all other displays from within Microsoft Outlook.
- the user may enter the question in the text box then select one or more of the various buttons to complete the question before submitting it.
- FIG. 43 shown is an example of the "Add Category” dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Add Category” button from within the "Ask a Question” dialog box (FIG.
- the user will use the Add Category dialog box to classify the question in the most appropriate category which ensures the question will be routed to the most appropriate expert(s).
- the user may select one or more categories, as appropriate.
- FIG. 44 shown is an example Add Attachment dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Add Attachment" button from within the "Ask a Question” dialog box of (FIG. 42) the present invention permitting a user to add a document as an attachment to a question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the user may be attached to the question when it is submitted to permit the expert the opportunity to review the document while answering the question. Selecting a document and selecting the Open button will associate the document with the question and return the user to the "Ask a Question" dialog box.
- FIG. 45 shown is an example "Add Link” dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Add Link” button from within the "Ask a Question” dialog box (FIG. 42) of the present invention permitting a user to add an URL address link to a question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the user may specify and describe a particular URL which may be relevant to the question being posed.
- the expert then has the opportunity to review the associate web content while answering the question.
- Selecting the "OK” button will preferably associate the URL address with the question and return the user to the "Ask a Question” dialog box (FIG. 42).
- FIG. 46 shown is an example "Options" dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Options" button from within the "Ask a Question” dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to select additional options for the current question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the user may use the "Options" dialog to specify particular recipients or functional areas of the organization which the user believes may be best able to answer the question.
- the user may preferably also use this dialog box to modify the default attachment setting for the current question.
- FIG. 47 illustrated is an example "Attachments Settings” dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Attachments” button from within the "Options" dialog box (FIG. 46) of the present invention permitting a user to select attachment options for the current question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the user may choose to have the original attachment returned with the answer or to receive only the answer without the original attachment.
- the user also has the option to select the "Attachments” button to associate additional attachments with the current question.
- the user also has the option to select the "Add Link” button to associate additional URL addresses with the current question. Selecting the "OK” button will preferably return the user to the "Options" dialog box (FIG. 46).
- FIG.48 illustrated is an example "Recipients” dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Recipients” button from within the "Options" dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to select additional individuals and/or functional areas to receive the current question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the user may enter the email addresses of the intended recipients in the text box or selecting them from an address book, including the Microsoft Outlook address book by selecting the "Address Book" button.
- Selecting the "OK” button will preferably return the user to the "Options" dialog box (FIG. 46).
- FIG. 49 illustrated is an example "Address Book” dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Address Book” button from within the "Select Recipients" dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to select particular individuals to receive the current question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the user may use the Microsoft Outlook address book as a source of names and email address to whom the question will be sent.
- Selecting the "OK” button will preferably will result in the addressees receiving the question and return the user to the "Options" dialog box (FIG. 46).
- FIG. 46 illustrated is an example "Address Book” dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Address Book” button from within the "Select Recipients” dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to select particular individuals to receive the current question, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the user may use the Microsoft Outlook address
- FIG. 50 shown is an example screen display of a completed "Ask a Question” dialog according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- a summary of the question is presented for review and to permit the user to make any changes any of the items before submitting it. Selecting the "OK" button will preferably submit the question and return the user to the previously active window within Microsoft Outlook.
- FIG. 51 illustrated is an example "Add Advice” dialog presented to a user after selecting the "Add Advice” text link on the integration toolbar 5001 of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the user may enter a title for the advice and the narrative of the information to be shared in the text box then select one or more of the various buttons to complete the advice before submitting it.
- the user may highlight text within a document before selecting the "Add Advice text link to automatically "paste' the highlighted text into the narrative text box.
- FIG. 51 An example of this feature is shown in FIG. 51 where the highlighted text from the document has been pasted into the narrative text box (at least embodying herein highlighting information within at least one first display area controlled by such at least one first program; at least embodying herein accessing such at least one second computer program using such at least one inter-program link; at least embodying herein automatically transferring such highlighted information to at least one second display area controlled by such at least one second computer program).
- the user may then select the "Add Category” button to add one or more categories to classify the advice in the same manner as described with reference to FIG. 43.
- the user may select the "Add Attachment” button to add one or more attachment to the advice in the same manner as described with reference to FIG. 44 through FIG. 47.
- the user may select the "Add Link” button to add one or more URL links to the advice in the same manner as described with reference to FIG. 44 through FIG. 47.
- the user may also select the "Options” button to set the attachment and URL link options as described with reference to FIG. 46 and FIG. 47. Referring now to FIG.
- FIG. 52 illustrated an example dialog box presented to a user after selecting the "Keywords button from within the "Add Advice” dialog box of the present invention permitting a user to select particular keywords for association with the current item of advice, according to a preferred embodiment, of the present invention.
- the user may select one or more keywords displayed which will best describe the advice and assist others in finding the advice after inclusion in the subject database. Selecting the "OK" button will preferably associate. the selected keywords with the advice and return the user to the "Add Advice" (FIG. 51) dialog.
- FIG. 53 shown is an example screen display of a completed "Add Advice" dialog according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- a summary of the advice is presented for review and to allow the user to make any changes any of the items before submitting it.
- Selecting the "OK” button will preferably submit the advice and return the user to the previously active window within Microsoft Outlook.
- FIG. 54 shown is an example "Ask Questions” dialog presented to a user after selecting the "Questions (n)" text link on the integration toolbar of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the "Ask Questions” dialog presents a list of questions awaiting answers from the user.
- FIG. 55 illustrated is an example "Approvals" dialog presented to a user after selecting the "Approvals (n)" text link on the integration toolbar of the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the "Approvals” dialog presents a list of advice that has been submitted for approval by the user.
- the user may select any one of the items on the list and approve or disapprove it in the manner as described with reference to FIG. 56.
- FIG. 56 shown is an illustration of the screen display, used to review and approve submitted advice according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- each user authorized to review and approve advice submitted for inclusion in the subject database will use this screen display.
- each authorized user will review and edit advice submissions for accuracy appropriateness and completeness.
- all aspects of a submitted advice may be modified by the approving user.
- the approving user will either approve the submitted advice or disapprove it and optionally provide an explanation for use by the user who submitted the advice.
- FIG. 57 shown is an illustration of the integration toolbar 5001 of the present invention presented within Microsoft Excel, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one other computer-based system comprises at least one computer-based spreadsheet system).
Abstract
Description
Claims
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WO2005029281A3 (en) | 2007-01-18 |
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