WO2001095586A2 - Systeme et procede pour la dissemination d'informations sur un reseau de communication en fonction de profils de consommateurs predefinis - Google Patents

Systeme et procede pour la dissemination d'informations sur un reseau de communication en fonction de profils de consommateurs predefinis Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2001095586A2
WO2001095586A2 PCT/US2001/018150 US0118150W WO0195586A2 WO 2001095586 A2 WO2001095586 A2 WO 2001095586A2 US 0118150 W US0118150 W US 0118150W WO 0195586 A2 WO0195586 A2 WO 0195586A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
user
server
information
computer
communication module
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2001/018150
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2001095586A3 (fr
Inventor
Shai Bar-Lavi
Robert Hopwood
Shlomo Shur
Original Assignee
Valueflash.Com, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Valueflash.Com, Inc. filed Critical Valueflash.Com, Inc.
Priority to AU2001268177A priority Critical patent/AU2001268177A1/en
Publication of WO2001095586A2 publication Critical patent/WO2001095586A2/fr
Publication of WO2001095586A3 publication Critical patent/WO2001095586A3/fr

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
    • H04L67/34—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications involving the movement of software or configuration parameters 
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L65/00—Network arrangements, protocols or services for supporting real-time applications in data packet communication
    • H04L65/60—Network streaming of media packets
    • H04L65/61—Network streaming of media packets for supporting one-way streaming services, e.g. Internet radio
    • H04L65/612—Network streaming of media packets for supporting one-way streaming services, e.g. Internet radio for unicast
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L65/00—Network arrangements, protocols or services for supporting real-time applications in data packet communication
    • H04L65/60—Network streaming of media packets
    • H04L65/70—Media network packetisation
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
    • H04L67/01—Protocols
    • H04L67/02—Protocols based on web technology, e.g. hypertext transfer protocol [HTTP]
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L67/00—Network arrangements or protocols for supporting network services or applications
    • H04L67/2866—Architectures; Arrangements
    • H04L67/30—Profiles
    • H04L67/306—User profiles
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L69/00—Network arrangements, protocols or services independent of the application payload and not provided for in the other groups of this subclass
    • H04L69/30—Definitions, standards or architectural aspects of layered protocol stacks
    • H04L69/32—Architecture of open systems interconnection [OSI] 7-layer type protocol stacks, e.g. the interfaces between the data link level and the physical level
    • H04L69/322—Intralayer communication protocols among peer entities or protocol data unit [PDU] definitions
    • H04L69/329—Intralayer communication protocols among peer entities or protocol data unit [PDU] definitions in the application layer [OSI layer 7]

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to information transfer and gathering, and more
  • America Online and on popular websites, such as Yalioo.com, in attempts to lure Internet users to view their products. Such advertising is random and untargeted and thus has had a limited rate of response.
  • One technique used to gather user interest information is through product registration cards as part of an online registration process in which the responder is asked to provide his or her E-mail address and to indicate if he or she wishes to receive further communication from advertisers.
  • This approach to identifying potential recipients is somewhat random and untargeted. In addition, it is not as effective as might be desired in relation to those who spend limited time online, or for products which are primarily not used in conjunction with a personal computer.
  • advertisements of like products are sent by electronic mail to the registrants.
  • the recipients can be notified by • E-mail to visit a Web site identified in the message at which both content of interest and advertising is presented. Sometimes a notification is transmitted which appears on the user's screen, either in the form of a "pop-up window" or icon.
  • the profit for the provider is typically derived from paid advertising of other enterprises delivered with the transmitted information.
  • Providers offer advertisement in the form of streaming banners encouraging visitors interested in the subject matter to click or select the banner, thereby hyperlinking to the advertiser.
  • providers offer awards by way of credits or points to users who access or interact with site contents. For example, users are enticed to sign on or register with the provider with a chance of winning money or points. The points can then be used as credit toward purchases of goods or in exchange for travel bonuses, like airline mileage points.
  • the provider itself may also utilize the transaction as a vehicle for promoting products or services of its own.
  • CDs music Compact Disks
  • DND's Digital Versatile Disks
  • Such individuals (usually adolescents or young adults) would enjoy having access to personal information about their favorite performers as well as concert schedules, announcements of new releases, etc., but if they are not regular users of online communication, there has not been a completely effective way to encourage them to make themselves known to the music companies and to use the Internet as a medium for enhancing their enjoyment of the products they have purchased. Encouraging such use of the Internet could produce benefits for consumers as well as information providers.
  • an enterprise which develops a list of individuals interested in a particular country and western artist and in such music in general can sell access to this information to recording companies, which in turn can provide enhancement content such as announcements of impending releases of new recordings, concert schedule information, background information on the performers, recorded interviews, news of online chats with performers, etc. and advertising with respect to other products for distribution by the list proprietor.
  • Another known technique of gathering user behavioral characteristics is by tracking the traverse paths of users through the various sites on the Internet in a given online session.
  • a behavioral profile can be gathered on the user and such profile can be stored and possibly used for targeted advertising.
  • improving the ability to gather lists of receptive users in different categories is not enough, as existing models for dissemination of information (both content and advertising) are also not completely satisfactory.
  • the profile information gathered on users may often be outdated.
  • the audience like commercials that are repeated too often and become stale as a result, the audience likewise loses interest in repeated advertising targeted towards them based on outdated profile information.
  • the stored profile information lacks the ability to reflect the shifting interests of users. Accordingly, a need exists for an apparatus and a method for 1) providing content of interests to targeted web users; 2) attracting user interaction with interactive content; 3) gathering user behavioral information on web users in real time; and 4) delivering profile- based information to the user.
  • the present invention seeks to avoid the problems inherent in previously known practices and technology by providing improved techniques for reaching potential recipients, for simplifying the initial response by interested individuals, and for facilitating the gathering and organizing of marketing information from those individuals.
  • the invention further seeks to provide cost-effective use of the profile information in marketing and advertising, to assure convenient access by recipients to information selected in accordance with their profiles, and to facilitate use of newly developed technology with developed technology without depending on recipients to take steps to upgrade their software.
  • An object of the present invention is to give content providers and retailers a highly efficient computer-based direct marketing mechanism that will allow them to provide their client base with personalized real-time information, products and services.
  • the dynamic and real-time characteristics of Internet usage are captured in this invention, affording a non- intrusive yet highly targeted interactive direct marketing application.
  • a method and apparatus facilitates a unique and highly personalized delivery of information and marketing products and services to individuals through their computer desktops.
  • the method includes embedding communication modules ("comm modules") on a user's PC desktop, usually in the form of an icon, and provides pre-determined and highly targeted information to the user on a real time basis or whenever the user's PC is connected to the Internet.
  • communication modules usually in the form of an icon
  • a system includes a communication structure having one or more servers and a plurality of the comm modules installed on each of a plurality of remotely located personal computers.
  • the computers and the servers are connected together over a communication network such as the Internet.
  • multimedia entertainment or other information content and advertising created by various content providers, as well as profile information of the users of the computers containing the comm modules.
  • the information and advertising content stored on the servers is organized according to the user profiles and is selectively made available in accordance with the user profiles for viewing as Web pages.
  • One feature of the method according to the present invention is the preferred manner in which the comm modules are made available for installation on the client-side computers.
  • the comm modules are downloaded from the server side of the system, they are preferably distributed as an adjunct to the information, advertising or entertainment content of a multimedia product such as a CD or DVD.
  • a multimedia product such as a CD or DVD.
  • These may be commercially produced entertainment products sold through normal commercial channels, or specially produced samplers or the like distributed as promotional items through mass mailings, in conjunction with the sale of related products, etc.
  • DVD will feature some form of entertainment, such as a music or sports video, from a specific marketer, which will entice the recipient to load the program onto the PC.
  • Such a sampler CD or DVD can also be distributed to concert goers or as part of a promotional program such as a giveaway in records stores, entertainment retailers and the like.
  • the comm module is installed on the recipient's computer as described below.
  • the CD will install a Web interface, as well as audio and video players to the user's PC and then automatically open the Web interface page, connecting the user to the marketer's Web site.
  • the CD installs the comm module as a desktop tray icon and gives the user the option to register with the marketer for additional products and services.
  • the marketer With a completed registration application, the marketer now has a complete profile of the user stored on a main server.
  • the comm modules avoids the problems inherent in previously known practices and technology by providing corporate customers with significantly more efficient marketing techniques.
  • client organizations are better able to reach potential recipients, to simplify the response by interested individuals, and to facilitate gathering marketing information from those interested individuals.
  • the comm module aids in the development of individualized recipient profiles, and in the cost-effective use of the profile information in marketing and advertising. This marketing technology allows convenient access by recipients to information selected in accordance with their profiles, and facilitates use of newly developed techniques without depending on recipients to take steps to upgrade their software.
  • comm modules are automatically installed on the user's computer the first time the distribution disks are used for their main purpose.
  • the comm module program is designed to run as part of the computer's start-up file, and when executed, it displays a small icon on the user's desktop. Thereafter, the first time a connection to the communication network is established, the user is automatically connected to the server-side of the system • and is presented with a series of profile inquiry pages from which a profile of the user can be developed. Information contained on the distribution disk itself may also be included in the user's profile.
  • the profile might identify that artist or group and the particular type of music as the user's primary interest.
  • the profile inquiry pages might also request information as to other artists, types of music and even other subjects about which the user would like to receive information.
  • the distribution disk is produced by the list proprietor, including paid advertising as well as information content can defray the cost of production, or even be profitable in the first instance. This facilitates free distribution of an enormous number of comm modules and creation of a correspondingly large population of potential users. Even with a response rate typical for unsolicited advertising (e.g., about 2 percent), the list proprietor will be able to generate profiles for a large body of users likely to be receptive to targeted marketing efforts.
  • the desktop icon changes state based on messages from the server.
  • the icon can flash, blink and emit audible tones alerting the user about the status of content availability. Users may then access the information at their convenience.
  • the comm module includes a mini Web browser designed to display downloaded information in the form of Web pages coded ' in hypertext markup language ("HTML").
  • HTML hypertext markup language
  • the design of the browser minimizes hard disk storage requirements, and imposes minimum demands on the system memory, while still providing all features necessary for communication with the servers and for display of full- featured Web pages. It is compatible with operating systems commonly in use, and is runtime configurable and upgradable via server configuration messages.
  • the comm module when the user establishes a connection to the communication network, the comm module sends a message to a routing server at a predetermined Internet address. (We refer to this message as a "heartbeat" as it is preferably repeated at regular intervals.) This immediately informs the server that the user is online, and ready to receive messages.
  • the server receives 'real-time' instantaneous feedback and information about the user, including every link within a website provided by the server the user clicks on, at the same time he does so.
  • This feature distinguishes the present invention from the prior art teachings on various techniques of "push technology" such as Internet mailing lists, in that the present invention allows for contemporaneous real-time communication and exchange of information with the user.
  • the real time and instantaneous nature of the feedback facilitates gathering of behavioral information 'of the moment' on the user.
  • the routing server Upon receipt of a new heartbeat message, the routing server sends a response that instructs the comm module where to send subsequent heartbeats.
  • This allows distribution of users to different servers based on load, client version, or other criteria.
  • a related feature of the invention is that each server can deliver the same routing message, allowing the real-time adjustment of server load, heartbeat frequency and other client behavior. It also permits convenient distribution of client behavior. It also permits convenient distribution of client software upgrades.
  • Another feature of the invention is a timed-response live link, where the user is rewarded for clicking on the link within a certain period of time. This link can be featured on a banner ad which hosts a quiz or trivia show, where the user is awarded a prize if he clicks on the link and answers within a certain amount of time, such as within 5 minutes.
  • the comm modules and the server system are designed to permit messaging between comm modules via the server. This creates the capability for chat or instant messaging between users having similar interests.
  • the comm module alerts the user audibly or visually when a message from another comm module user is available in addition to the other content delivery functions.
  • Yet a further feature of this invention is programming the comm module to access a specific database on the server side and to provide user-identifying information without any intervention on the part of the user. This permits, for example, direct access to airline frequent flier mileage data, stock quotes, and (with sufficient security and privacy systems in place), private financial information simply by clicking on the associated icon.
  • a method for communication between a server and a client comprising the steps of: embedding in a multimedia medium a communication module, the multimedia medium having a stored music program; distributing the audiovisual medium to the user; and installing in a computer the communication module upon playback of the music program stored in the audiovisual medium by the computer, the communication module having stored codes executable by the computer to establish a communication link with the server.
  • the communication module includes a browser for facilitating communication between the server and the user, and the server directs communications to the user through the browser.
  • the communication link between the server and the user is preferably via TCP/IP.
  • the communication module includes codes for causing the computer to monitor usage in connection with the window by the user, and forwarding the usage information to the server.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the architecture of a communication system according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a diagram of software functions and applications on the client side of the communications system.
  • FIG. 3 is the diagram of the software functions on the server side of the communications system.
  • FIG. 4 is block flow diagram showing the functionality of a method and system according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is an example welcoming screen presented to a user the first time he or she accesses the server side of the system after installation.
  • FIG. 6 is a sample registration screen.
  • FIG. 7 is a sample personal e-messenger user interface for displaying targeted messages to the user.
  • FIG. 1 A system suitable for practice of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. This is constructed on a client-server model.
  • the client side generally denoted at 10, is comprised of a first user installation 12 and one or more additional user installations generally denoted at 14.
  • User installation 12 includes a network interface unit 16 such as a modem, by which the user's computer is connected to the communication network 18.
  • the additional user installations 14 similarly include network interfaces (not shown) for connection to communication network 18.
  • the server side of the system is comprised of a master server 22 connected to communication network 18 through a network interface 24, a secondary server 26 connected to communication network 18 through a network interface 28, a first content provider installation 30 connected to the communication network through a network interface 32 and a second content provider installation 34 comiected to the network through a network interface 36.
  • server side 20 is illustrated in simplified form and that the respective servers and network interfaces are components of complete server installations including facilities for providing various functions as described herein.
  • only one secondary server installation and two content provider installations are shown. In general, additional secondary server installations may be provided and there will be more than two content provider installations.
  • this is a personal computer of any conventional or desired type and includes a central processing unit 38, suitable storage such as a hard drive 40, memory 42, input devices such as keyboard 44 and CD-ROM or DVD drive 46, an audio card and associated loud speakers 50, and a video display adapter 52 and associated monitor 54.
  • suitable storage such as a hard drive 40, memory 42, input devices such as keyboard 44 and CD-ROM or DVD drive 46, an audio card and associated loud speakers 50, and a video display adapter 52 and associated monitor 54.
  • the architecture of other user installations 14 may be the same as that of user installation 12.
  • the invention is ⁇ intended for use on computers running any suitable operations such as the Microsoft® Windows® or Macintosh® operating systems.
  • master server 22 and secondary server 26 may be of similar physical construction. Generally speaking, profile information about the universe of users and the information generated by the content providers is duplicated on master server 22 and secondary server 26, but master server 22 preferably also provides routing functions for traffic management, synchronization of user information and provider content on all servers, software updates for the user installations and transmission of other information necessary to ensure proper functioning of the system.
  • Servers 22 and 26, and respective network interfaces 24 and 28 may be personal computers running the Microsoft® Windows® NT operating system, or other desired operating system, and including customary data storage and other peripheral equipment typically employed in server installations.
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 The software functions associated with client side 10 and server side 20 of the system are illustrated respectively in FIGS. 2 and 3, in which it will be understood that the arrowheads on the connecting lines indicate information and control flow.
  • the actual software implementation may be accomplished within the scope of this invention in a variety of ways using conventional object oriented programming techniques and commercially available programming languages such as Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Extensible Markup Language (XML), Javascript, Java, C , etc.
  • HTML Hypertext Markup Language
  • XML Extensible Markup Language
  • Javascript Java, C
  • the required database functions can be implemented using any commercially available database management system such as Microsoft SQL Server.
  • the software is preferably distributed to the user as an adjunct to the entertainment or information content of a multi-media product such as a music CD or DVD (shown in outline at 94).
  • the entertainment content of the CD or DVD preferably includes a music program such as a popular song of a known artist.
  • the DVD can be played using a traditional CD or DVD player.
  • the content may include a video which is displayed as the song is played over speakers.
  • the embedded software installs the communication module in that computer.
  • the software includes an installation-update manager 96, a communication manager 98, a browser 100, a user profile manager 102 and associated user profile data 104, an online presence identification or "heartbeat" generator 106, and an icon manager 110 and associated icon database 112.
  • Software installation-update manager 96 controls installation of the comm module from input medium 94 to the user's computer. This software component functions as a setup program to create a folder on the user's hard drive 40 (see FIG.
  • the functions of the icon manager 110 are invoked to place an icon representing the entertainment or other information content of the distribution medium 94 on the user's desktop. This may be placed, for example, in the system tray on a computer running Windows 95 or Windows 98, or directly on the desktop if the computer is running a Macintosh operating system.
  • Specific software code required to accomplish the functions described above will depend on the particular operating system, and the creation of actual codes to implement the f nctions of the invention should be readily apparent to one ordinarily skilled in the art based on the disclosure of the present invention.
  • Installation manager 96 completes the installation process by making any necessary changes in various system files (such as the registry files used by the Microsoft Windows 95 and 98 operating systems), and then gives the user the option to immediately log on to the server side of the system through network interface 16 and communication network 18 (see FIG. 1).
  • the operations involved in an online session are controlled by communications manager 98.
  • This is preferably a command processor programmed to initiate online communication when the user clicks on desktop icon 118, and to operate heartbeat generator 106 to transmit the heartbeat signal indicating the user's presence online to master server 22.
  • the specific Internet address (URL) of the master server 22 is hard coded in master server URL memory 108.
  • Communication manager 98 also provides control over the operation of browser 100.
  • the functions of browser 100 may be accomplished by the use of an existing commercially available product such as the Microsoft Internet Explorer® or the Netscape Navigator®.
  • the features provided may include viewers for advanced multimedia effects to provide the maximum possible enhancement of the user's online experience.
  • user profile information is created on Web pages and is managed and stored on the server side of the system, user profile data 104 may also be stored locally, for example, to permit automated log-on for access to confidential information.
  • the user profile manager 102 is shown separate from communication manager 98, but the profile management functions may alternatively be included as part of the command processor functions of communication manager 98.
  • the software functions associated with master server 22 are illustrated in FIG. 3. These functions include heartbeat manager 130, traffic manager 132, user profile database manager 134, client software configuration manager 136 and Web page distribution manager 138, all of which provide command processor functionality to control the storage and delivery of information to and from the comm modules, and the various content providers such as 30 and 34 shown in FIG. 1.
  • Heartbeat manager 130 responds to incoming heartbeat signals to identify which users are online at a given time.
  • heartbeat manager 130 detects an incoming heartbeat signal it accesses the user profile database 140 through user profile database manager 134 to determine the identity of the user, and updates a list of users online stored in online users database 142.
  • traffic manager 132 accesses the information in the online users database 142 and estimates the volume of traffic.
  • User profile database manager 134 and associated user profile database 140 manage and store demographic information for each of the users who have provided profile infonnation.
  • Comm module configuration information e.g. version number
  • Profile information is generated when a user fills in blanks on a series of profile inquiry Web pages displayed by the user's browser.
  • Client software configuration manager 136 and associated software database 148 are both responsible for ensuring that the most current version of the comm module has been downloaded to each user.
  • Updated user software created by the proprietor of the server side of the system is stored in software database 148.
  • configuration manager 136 is called to access user profile database 140 to identify the user's version of the comm module. If software modifications have been made since the last update of the user's software, the current version of the software is downloaded to that user, and the functions of the software installation update manager 96 (see FIG. 2) are invoked to update the user's comm module.
  • software configuration manager 138 may simply query each user as it logs on to the server to determine the version of its software and to initiate a download of an updated version if necessary.
  • Content database 146 is the repository of the information intended for delivery to the users. Stored information is catalogued according to predefined properties correlated with the various elements of the user profiles. For example, content data may be categorized as information about a particular artist, a particular type of music, a particular category of news
  • distribution manager 138 Whenever a particular user logs onto the server for the first time, distribution manager 138 provides the user access to a gateway page inviting creation of a profile of that user ' . If user profile manager 134 recognizes the user logging on as one who has already created a profile, access is provided to a "members only" home page from which additional information can be viewed by clicking on HTML hot links in a conventional manner. If the user has established more than one profile, each will be associated with a separate icon on his or her desktop and with a separate heartbeat. When the user clicks on the icon corresponding to his interest at that time, the identifying heartbeat associated with that icon is transmitted, and the gateway or member page is invoked corresponding to the user's icon selection.
  • the overall functionality of the software as described above is illustrated in block flow diagram form in FIG. 4.
  • the process begins at step 56 when a new user acquires a multimedia product containing the comm module in addition to its entertainment or other information content.
  • the multimedia product may be acquired in various ways including direct retail purchase, complimentary mass distribution of product samplers, etc.
  • Another way in which the software may be distributed is by inclusion in an entertainment product created online by individual users and then delivered in the form of the
  • CD ROM for DVD.
  • the user places the multimedia product in his or her CD ROM or DVD drive 46 (see FIG. 1).
  • Software installation manager 96 then installs the comm module, including Web browser 100 along with available multimedia viewers (step 60).
  • Installation manager 96 then installs an active icon on the user's desktop at step 62, opens Web browser
  • the user's network interface software 120 (see FIG. 2) is invoked to establish a connection to master server 22 (see FIG. 3) at the URL hand coded in URL memory 108 (see FIG. 2).
  • the comm module then transmits the heartbeat signal to the server (step 72).
  • Traffic manager 132 (see FIG. 3) determines whether to adjust traffic on the system, and if necessary, sends a command containing the URL of the server with which farther communication is to take place (step 73).
  • the heartbeat signal is then analyzed, and identified as that of a new user or a previously registered user (step 74).
  • a new user welcoming screen is presented by browser 100 and the user is invited to register (step 76). If the user accepts the invitation, he or she is prompted to complete a series of Web page forms on which the user provides information which will form his or her profile (step 78). After the user has completed the registration process, at step 80, the user's profile is stored on the server in user profile database 140 (FIG. 3). Then the user online list is updated (step 82) and the new information is transmitted to the other servers to update their profile databases and online lists (step 84). If the user is identified as previously registered, a "members only" welcoming screen is displayed and only the list of users on line is updated (step 85). The "members only” screen is also displayed for new users when the registration process has been completed.
  • Content to be made accessible to the users is uploaded to the master server by the various content providers at step 86. It is then organized according to the various user profiles at step 88 and distributed to secondary server 26 at step 90 (see FIG. 1).
  • master server 22 determines if there is new content not aheady viewed by that user. If so, master server 22 sends a notification to that user's comm module over the communication network (step 91). When the notification is received, the comm module responds by changing the state of the user's desktop icon, and by providing an audible indication, if the user has selected this as an option (step 92). Then, at step 94, the user may browse the content on the server associated with his or her stored profile. In another example of a preferred embodiment as a matter of illustration, and not by way of limitation, FIG.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a welcoming screen comprising a Desktop Spew icon 202, which indicates that the icon is also in the taskbar (200).
  • the taskbar icon 200 brings up a graphic user interface 198, which is a conventional HTML document (in this case, an Atlantic Records site) and includes a live link 204 consisting of the words,
  • a registration screen such as that illustrated in FIG. 6 is presented.
  • the user fills in the required elements of his first and last name and E-mail address (lines 212 - 216), and optional information such as his home address, city, state, zip code, country, gender and age (lines 218-230).
  • a user profile is generated, and the profile is then used to customize any information the user receives so that such information pertains to that particular user's interests, age group, etc. This is advantageous in reducing irrelevant and unwanted messages being sent to a user, therefore resulting in a greater advertising success rate by targeting specific users with information tailored to their individual interests and demographic information.
  • the registration screen also contains a check-off box 232, which users under the age of 18 are to click on to indicate that parental or guardian permission to download Desktop Spew has been granted.
  • the user can indicate his music preference at 234, and a live link 236 is provided to access a privacy notice discussing online security. The user signifies completion of the information by clicking on "Continue" link 238.
  • FIG. 5 also presents an ad banner 210 which is an HTML document and links the user to a page describing the ad in more detail.
  • This ad bamier is an eye-catching way of advertising and grabbing a user's attention while the user is accessing a site, while at the same time not being unduly intrusive. If the user chooses to find out more about the advertisement, he can do so by clicking on the ad banner whenever he wishes.
  • the graphic user interface 198 in FIG. 5 also contains live link 206 comprising the words "my spew" which links the user back to the registration screen FIG. 6, thus enabling the user to make any desired changes to his profile. This live link on the graphic user interface 198 makes it easy to update one's profile whenever the user desires.
  • Banner 211 of FIG. 5 serves as an interaction/advertisement area wherein a banner designed for user attraction and interaction is placed.
  • the banner can be in the form of another advertisement from another content provider or advertiser, or preferably, the banner is a streaming video attraction such as a video game or a quiz question involving user interaction.
  • banner 211 features the trivia-type game 'Jeopardy.'
  • a prize is awarded if the user clicks on the banner and provides a correct answer within a certain period of time, for example within 5 minutes.
  • the award can be a credit or point which the user can accumulate for use as award points or money toward purchases on sites hyperlinked to sponsors of the server.
  • FIG. 5 also illustrates a set of live links (208), comprising a menu of channels organized according to content which the user can access anytime by selectively clicking on the desired channel.
  • This menu reduces desktop clutter since it reduces the presence of numerous icons on the desktop, and instead organizes them into a plurality of individual channels according to subject matter.
  • Exemplary presentations from the selection of channels include: a screen comprising live links which connect the user to various video clips (Instavid); a screen which contains live links to a past event section, a home page, an artist interview section, various albums or movies which include audio and video clips for the user to sample, and a link which lists upcoming events (Digital Arena); a screen which allows the user to search for a specific artist or title by providing specific information, a navigation bar which allows the user to link to various other channels without having to go back to the graphic user interface box, a billboard ad, an icon linking the user to a home page and a banner ad (Artists & Music).
  • each sponsor presents a 'store' channel for selection and electronic shopping by the user of the goods and services offered by the sponsor.
  • a screen is produced having some of the same features mentioned above such as a banner ad and a home page link; it also includes an icon entitled "Pick of the Day", a list of separate shopping categories, a live link to an online security site, a group of album billboards categorized according to status, and a set of links directed towards customer service.
  • the screen also contains a search engine allowing the user to conduct a search based on genre, a keyword, or alphabetically. Upon entering this information, the user then clicks on a hyperlink to initiate the search.
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 An additional feature of the system is illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. This feature is an instant messaging capability between users logged onto the system. This functionality is provided by means of a user to user chat manager 174 in association with online users database 142 (see FIG. 3). Chat manager 174 periodically transmits information to each user identifying those users presently online. This information is detected at each comm module by user to user chat manager 114 and stored in the local online users database 116.
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 Another feature of the system illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 is the real-time user profiling capability.
  • This capability is provided by user profile manager 134, user profile database 140, and heartbeat manager 130.
  • the profile manager 134 monitors each action (or click) performed by the user while the communication link between main server 20 and user 14 is maintained.
  • the actions of the user that are monitored include the paths of traverse by the user.
  • each traverse is time stamped by user profile manager 134 for tracking 'where the user went and for how long.' This process is performed as the information gathered is stored in user . profile database 140 for subsequent processing and analysis.
  • FIG. 7 is an example of a personal e- messenger user interface which will appear after the user enters the required information in the registration screen (FIG. 6) and clicks on the Desktop Spew icon 200.
  • This interface is an example featuring Atlantic Records and includes a message box 705 for displaying incoming messages targeted towards the user according to information collected from the user.
  • a scrolling tool 710 allows the user to scroll forwards or backwards through the messages. The messages will flash across message box 705 in response to the user's scroll selection.
  • the message box 705 contains a link which the user can click on if he wants to access a more detailed version of the message.
  • the user interface also contains a live link 715 displaying news flashes and highlights. The user can click on the highlight or headline that interests him to find out about that particular article in more detail.
  • a key advantage of the present invention is the use of the direct linkage between the central server 20 and user 14 upon the user accessing the Internet. This feature differs from the traditional profiling and communication techniques to attract or reach a user or potential customer.
  • traditional web-based profiling and communication methods when a user opens his browser 100 to access the Internet, the user's browser generates an HTTP message to get the information for the desired web page.
  • the web site in response to the HTTP message transmits one or more messages back containing the information to be displayed by the user's browser.
  • an advertising server provides additional information including objects such as banner advertisements to be displayed with the information provided from the web site.
  • the computers supporting the browser, the web site and the advertising server are different nodes on the Internet.
  • the user's browser Upon clicking through or otherwise selecting the advertisement object, which may be an image such as an advertisement banner, an icon or a video or an audio clip, the user's browser is hyperlinked to the advertiser's web site for that advertisement object.
  • the web-site server or the advertising server retrieves information from: (i) the user's IP address, (ii) a cookie if the browser is cookie enabled and stores cookie information, (iii) a substring key indicating the page in which the advertisement to be provided from the server is to be embedded, and (iv) MIME header information indicating the browser type and version, the operating system of the computer on which the browser is operating and the proxy server type.
  • the advertising server Upon receiving the request in the message, the advertising server determines which advertisement or other object to provide to the user's browser and transmits the messages containing the object such as a banner advertisement to the user's browser using the HTTP protocol.
  • the object such as a banner advertisement
  • the HTTP protocol Preferably contained within the HTTP message is a unique identifier for the advertiser's web page appropriate for the advertisement. That advertisement object is then displayed on the image created by the user's browser as a composite of the web page plus the object transmitted back by the advertising web server.
  • the user's browser When the user clicks on the banner or other advertising object displayed by the user's browser, the user's browser again transmits a message to the ad server.
  • the ad server notes the address of the computer of the browser (as identified above) that generated the message and transmits back the URL of the advertiser's web page so that the user's browser generates a message to contact the advertiser's web site.
  • the preferred features of the present invention including targeted distribution of embedded 'comm module' media, featured interaction attractions presented to users online for interaction, and real-time monitoring of user online activities, all operate to ⁇ yield increased interaction by targeted users with the website, which in turn results in increased commercial activities or transactions through the website.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Computer Security & Cryptography (AREA)
  • Information Transfer Between Computers (AREA)
  • Management, Administration, Business Operations System, And Electronic Commerce (AREA)
  • Two-Way Televisions, Distribution Of Moving Picture Or The Like (AREA)
  • Information Retrieval, Db Structures And Fs Structures Therefor (AREA)
  • User Interface Of Digital Computer (AREA)

Abstract

Cette invention se rapporte à un système et à un procédé permettant de distribuer via l'Internet des informations à des utilisateurs intéressés selon des préférences prédéfinies. Cette invention présente des techniques améliorées permettant d'atteindre des destinataires potentiels, de simplifier la réponse initiale par des personnes intéressées et de faciliter le regroupement et l'organisation d'informations provenant de ces personnes. Cette structure de communication comprend un ou plusieurs serveurs et plusieurs modules de communication côté client spécialisés (appelés 'modules communs'). Les serveurs stockent des contenus d'informations multimédia de type divertissements, publicités ou autres, ainsi que des informations de profils pour les utilisateurs des modules communs. Les informations ainsi stockées sont organisées en fonction des profils d'utilisateurs et elles sont rendues sélectivement disponibles pour un téléchargement à la demande. Les modules communs sont rendus de préférence disponibles pour être installés sur les ordinateurs côté client par distribution sous la forme de pièces jointes au contenu d'informations, de divertissements ou de publicités d'un produit multimédia, tel qu'un CD-ROM ou un DVD. Les informations de profil sont élaborées la première fois que l'utilisateur se connecte au réseau après l'installation du logiciel. Le module commun affiche sur le plan de travail de l'utilisateur une petite icône qui change d'état chaque fois qu'apparaissent de nouvelles informations sur le serveur correspondant au profil d'utilisateur. Les utilisateurs peuvent ensuite accéder à ces informations à leur convenance. Le module commun contient un mini-navigateur Web programmé pour afficher des pages Web toutes fonctions. Il est compatible avec les systèmes d'exploitation couramment utilisés et il est configurable en version exécutable et extensible via des messages de configuration du serveur. Lorsque l'utilisateur se connecte au réseau, le module commun se connecte directement à un serveur de routage à une adresse Internet prédéterminée.
PCT/US2001/018150 2000-06-06 2001-06-05 Systeme et procede pour la dissemination d'informations sur un reseau de communication en fonction de profils de consommateurs predefinis WO2001095586A2 (fr)

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JP2001351014A (ja) 2001-12-21
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JP2001350790A (ja) 2001-12-21

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