WO2003027920A2

WO2003027920A2 - Method and system for delivering a voucher via a mobile communication device

Info

Publication number: WO2003027920A2
Application number: PCT/GB2002/004316
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christopher Denton
Original assignee: Intcentives Limited
Priority date: 2001-09-22
Filing date: 2002-09-23
Publication date: 2003-04-03
Also published as: GB0408921D0; GB0122868D0; AU2002334075A1; GB2398145A; WO2003027920A8

Abstract

A method and system for providing at least one voucher via at least one mobile communication device. The method comprises: storing voucher data for at least one merchant in a database of a server accessible via the mobile communication device; enabling at least one user to access the database and select at least one voucher via the at least one mobile communication device; and enabling access to the database and authorisation of the at least one voucher via the at least one mobile communication device. The system comprises: a server (1) having a database (2) for storing voucher data; a communication interface (4) coupled to the server for transferring information between the server and a mobile communication device (6) through a mobile communications network (5); and a processor (3) for selecting at least one voucher from the database.

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DELIVERING A VOUCHER VIA A MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE

The present invention relates to mobile communication systems, and more particularly to providing a secure method and system for delivering a voucher via a mobile communication device.

It is well known to incentivize a prospective purchaser to acquire products or services by means of vouchers and coupons . By providing a voucher or coupon to a user (customer) , the user is enabled to obtain a product or service at a reduced cost, or to obtain some additional product and/or service free of charge.

Incentivizing customers in this way is a recognised way of increasing business and customer loyalty, and as such, various incentive schemes have been devised.

EP 1 077 437 discloses a method and system for distributing electronic coupons using a wireless communications system in which merchants are connected to a central service provider responsible for issuing coupons. A mobile communication device is used to select and request a coupon from a coupon distribution server, which then forwards the requested electronic coupon to the mobile device. Additionally, the coupon distribution server may forward coupon registration information to a proprietary server, and the registration information may be used to validate the electronic coupon when redeemed.

A user presents either identification or coupon registration information (e.g. a registration number) at a point of sale (POS) terminal and the subject coupon is redeemed in conjunction with the purchase of the associated product or service from a merchant (supplier) . Confirmation of the validity of the coupon presented by the user can be obtained, for example, through the POS terminal from the distribution server or proprietary server at the time of coupon redemption. Alternatively, activated coupon information can be provided in advance to the retail establishment through any convenient means (e.g. electronic data transfer or email or even a fax list of active registration numbers) .

A disadvantage of the prior art method is that the POS terminal has to be networked or otherwise connected to the servers in order to validate the coupon. The operating costs associated with this may have the effect of dissuading various merchants from joining an incentive scheme, and thereby reduce the potential market. Furthermore, by having both the mobile communication device of the user and the POS terminal of the supplier connected the demand on the system resources is increased.

Alternatively, should the supplier opt for the use of fax lists detailing registration details, the supplier becomes dependent on the regular supply of potentially long and continually changing lists of registration numbers. Any delay in the provision of updated lists, or any errors in those lists, inevitably disadvantages the supplier and the user. The incentives industry would benefit from a voucher system in which a voucher is securely delivered to a user via a mobile communication device and at the same time the voucher can be authorised securely via the same mobile communication device.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for providing at least one voucher via at least one mobile communication device, the method comprising: storing voucher data for at least one merchant in a database of a server accessible via the mobile communication device; enabling at least one user to access the database and select at least one voucher via the at least one mobile communication device; and enabling access to the database and authorisation of the at least one voucher via the at least one mobile communication device.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the database may be updated following the authorisation of a voucher. Updating of the database may include updating records of previous uses of a voucher (s) . The database may maintain records such as the spending habits (statistics) of users, which may prove useful for potential targeted marketing campaigns. The database may include personal details of the user(s), which may be modified by the user(s) . Personal details may include a name and an address (postal and/or email) .

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a merchant may access the database and authorise a voucher via a mobile communication device. That is, the merchant and the user can use the same mobile communication device whilst undertaking a "face- to-face" transaction.

A preferred feature of the present invention is that in order for a user to access the database, a user may enter user identification information. Similarly, in order for a merchant to access the database, a merchant may enter merchant identification information. The user and the merchant identification information must include at least one piece of unique information.

User identification information may comprise a membership number and a password. Alternatively, a username could be provided instead of a membership number. User identification information may also comprise a personal identification number (PIN) . Merchant identification information may comprise a personal identification number (PIN) and/or a loyalty number if the merchant is a member of a loyalty scheme that may be operated in conjunction with embodiments of the present invention.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a merchant may be remote from a user, in contrast to a face-to-face transaction. In such circumstances the merchant may provide the user with merchant identification information, thereby enabling the user to enter the merchant identification information, access the database and authorise a voucher via a mobile communication device. The present invention can provide any suitable type of voucher; such as a percentage-off discount voucher, a set amount off voucher, a gift voucher or an offer of complimentary goods or services. Alternatively, a combination of any of the various types of vouchers may be provided.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a mobile communication device may be used to input an initial total bill which is communicated to the server, the server having a processor coupled to the database that processes the initial total bill in conjunction with the voucher data in order to produce a final amount due which is displayed on the mobile communication device. For example, the processor may calculate a percentage discount amount based on the initial total bill and the voucher data, the voucher data setting the level of percentage discount to be applied to the initial total bill, and the processor deducting the percentage discount amount from the initial total bill in order to produce the final amount due. Alternatively, the voucher data may be a set amount off, and the processor deducts the set amount off from the initial total bill in order to produce the final amount due.

The voucher data may also be an offer of complimentary goods or services, in which case the processor processes the initial total bill in conjunction with the offer of complimentary goods or services in order to produce the final amount due. Furthermore, the initial total bill may be processed in conjunction with a combination of the different voucher data types hereinbefore described.

According to another embodiment of the invention a merchant may modify the voucher data that is stored in the database. This may involve modifying any or all of the following variables: the type of voucher (s) ; the amount or the level of percentage discount of a voucher (s); and the particular combination of a plurality of vouchers.

A merchant may also set an expiry date for a voucher. Alternatively, a merchant could deactivate a voucher after the voucher has been used once, or the merchant could specify the number of times that a voucher can be redeemed before deactivation. A merchant may deactivate a voucher (s) from further use via the mobile communication device during a particular transaction.

A merchant may also modify the merchant identification information. Accordingly, a merchant may change his or her personal identification number. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the merchant identification information may include a plurality of personal identification numbers in respect of staff that are in the employ of the merchant. In such circumstances the merchant may add or remove personal identification numbers.

According to the present invention there may also be provided one or more courtesy pages that are displayed on the mobile communication device after a transaction is completed. In addition, the name(s) of the user(s) and/or the merchant (s) may be displayed on the mobile communication device during a transaction.

The procedure of the present invention may be configured to operate using any mobile service or protocol. Furthermore, the mobile communication device (s) can be any or all of the following: a Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) enabled mobile phone; a General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) enabled phone; a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) device; and a two-way pager.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the server may be connected to the Internet and the mobile communication device communicates with the server via the Internet .

The server may be managed by the merchant (s) or by a third-party service provider.

Any or all of the user(s), the merchant (s) or the third-party service provider may be provided with details of each transaction via email or other suitable means of communication such as by post or facsimile.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a system for providing at least one voucher via at least one mobile communication device, the system comprising: a server having a database for storing voucher data for at least one merchant; a communications interface coupled to the server for communication with at least one mobile communication device through a mobile communications network for receiving information from the at least one mobile communication device and delivering at least one voucher to the at least one mobile communication device; and a processor for selecting at least one voucher stored in the database and for delivering a corresponding at least one voucher to the at least one mobile communication device via the communications interface in response to the information received from the at least one mobile communication device.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the information received from a mobile communication device comprises an initial total bill and the processor is used to process the initial total bill in conjunction with the voucher data in order to calculate a final amount due, which is delivered via the communications interface for display on a mobile communication device.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the processor calculates a percentage discount amount based on the initial total bill and the voucher data, the voucher data setting the level of percentage discount to be applied to the initial total bill, and the processor deducts the percentage discount amount from the initial total bill in order to produce the final amount due. Alternatively, the voucher data may be a set amount off, and the processor deducts the set amount off from the initial total bill in order to produce the final amount due.

The system may be configured so as to operate using any mobile service or protocol. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the communications interface performs communication via the Internet.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a server for providing a voucher via a mobile communication device, the server comprising: a database for storing voucher data for at least one merchant; a communications interface for communication with the mobile communication device through a mobile communications network for receiving information from the mobile communication device and delivering a voucher to the mobile communication device; and a processor for selecting a voucher stored in the database and for delivering said voucher to the mobile communication device via the communications interface in response to the information received from the mobile communication device.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided software which when run on a server, causes the server to perform the steps of: storing voucher data for at least one merchant in a database accessible via a mobile communication device; enabling at least one user to access the database and select a voucher via the mobile communication device; and enabling access to the database and authorisation of the voucher via the mobile communication device.

A particular advantage of the present invention is that it can be used by any individual, at any worldwide location, and with any supplier of goods or services (merchant) . Furthermore, the voucher is delivered securely to the mobile communication device at the user's request, at any time in any place, and then the voucher is securely authorised using the same mobile communication device. As a result of this, the merchant does not actually have to maintain an Internet connection to the server, or indeed have a connection at all, if he so chooses.

That is, the merchant could join the incentive scheme and conduct his business with a third-party service provider via other forms of communication, such as by post or email. In its most fundamental configuration, the only necessary connection to the server is provided by a mobile communication device. Accordingly, the present method and system is very flexible, which maximises the potential market. By having only one connection to the server, operating costs are reduced, and the demand on the network resources is minimised.

In addition to the identification of the user(s) and the merchant (s) using membership numbers/usernames, PINs and password verification, embodiments of the present invention also have the advantage that the user and merchant are both present during a face-to-face transaction, and this provides an extra level of security.

However, according to another important embodiment of the invention, the user(s) and the merchant (s) can be remote from one another. In order to authorise the voucher (s), the user contacts the merchant, perhaps by telephone (which may be the mobile communication device in some embodiments of the invention) or email, and the merchant provides the user with the necessary merchant identification information to enter into the mobile communication device and thereby access and authorise the voucher (s) . Of course, the user can provide the merchant with user personal identification information so that the merchant can verify that the user is entitled to the voucher (s) before providing the user with the necessary merchant identification information for authorisation of the voucher (s) .

The voucher (s) can be deactivated after a single use or left active for multiple use. The merchant has the option of deactivating the voucher at any time via the mobile communication device. For example, in embodiments of the invention the merchant has the option of selecting whether or not further use of the voucher is to be allowed in response to a prompt on the display of the mobile communication device.

The voucher (s) can be any type of voucher or offer, such as a set amount-off discount voucher, a gift voucher, a percentage-off discount voucher, an offer of complimentary goods or services, or any combination. In the case of discount vouchers the merchant may enter the total bill into the mobile communication device and then the discount will be calculated and the total bill or complimentary items are displayed on the mobile communication device.

Another feature of this invention is that it may be branded to any individual company, firm or organisation .

For a better understanding of the invention embodiments of it will now be described with reference to the accompanying examples and drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is a schematic illustrating a system according to the present invention;

Figs. 2A-2E are screen captures of a mobile communication device operating according to the present invention.

Figs. 3A-3H are screen captures of a mobile communication device operating according to the present ^■invention.

Fig. 1 shows the interrelationships between the various components of the system and a mobile communication device (6) . The server (1) is connected to a database (2), a processor (3) and a communications interface (4) . The communications interface enables the server to communicate with the mobile communication device (6) through a mobile communications network (5) . As a result, the server can receive information from the mobile communication device, and deliver one or more vouchers to the mobile communication device following selection of a voucher (s) from the database by the processor . An exemplary procedure by which the voucher is securely delivered is as follows. Initially, the details of the mobile communication device user and the merchant agreeing to honour the gift voucher, or offer the discount, or offer complimentary goods or services will be entered into a secure database on an online Internet server. The database for the user will hold registration details which may include any of the following forms of information: their name, username/membership number, a personal identification number (PIN) and a password. The database for the merchant will hold registration details including their company name, a personal identification number (PIN) and the voucher (s) offered. By entering required information (for example membership number and PIN) the user is permitted access to the database. That is, the user is able to communicate with the server by using a mobile communication device, such as a WAP-enabled mobile phone.

When the user wishes to make use of the voucher he finds the merchant details in the database via his mobile communication device. He then chooses the option "claim voucher", which is followed by a screen prompt requesting entry of the user's PIN and password. The database is then checked to see if the user is entitled to a particular voucher. The next screen might then display a message either stating that the user has already used his voucher, or that the voucher has expired.

Alternatively, the screen will display a message stating the user's name, PIN, the value of the voucher, and the name of the merchant . The screen prompt asks for the merchant's PIN, and asks for the total amount of the bill before the gift voucher value or before the discount has been deducted. The screen may further prompt the merchant to indicate whether the voucher should be allowed for use again. The user then passes the mobile communication device to the merchant to enter these details. Once entered the database is updated as to whether the voucher may be used again and the amount due is then displayed on the mobile communication device for the merchant and user to see. This whole procedure can also be tailored to operate using any mobile service or protocol.

Accordingly, the voucher entitlement is authorised and delivered securely to the mobile communications device at the user's request. The voucher is securely accepted by the merchant, at the user's request, using the user's own mobile communications device.

If the merchant enters the total bill into the mobile communications device at least one of the following processes could occur: the percentage-off discount may be calculated; the set amount off may be calculated; or the discount offer for complimentary goods and services may be calculated. The mobile communications device will display the calculated result.

An important security feature of the present invention is that the voucher cannot be duplicated.

The following examples are intended to illustrate embodiments of the invention. Figures 2A to 2E illustrate by means of screen captures of a mobile communication device how a percentage-off discount voucher may be processed. In these figures, a WAP-enabled mobile phone is shown by way of example.

Mr "A" (in this example Mr Christopher Denton) has tc be registered on the database with a PIN and a password. Mr "A" visits a restaurant listed on the database, taking with him his mobile phone. When he is ready to ask for the bill he activates his mobile phone, establishes a connection with the server via the mobile phone network and Internet, and locates on the database of the server the entry for that restaurant. He then selects the option "claim voucher" which is displayed on the screen of the device. In response to this, the server causes a screen display to be shown which asks for his PIN and password, and then checks the database to see if Mr "A" is entitled to a (25%) discount. Once this is entered and checked the discount entitlement is authorised and displayed on the screen of the mobile communication device as in Fig. 2A.

The mobile communication device is then handed to the merchant who enters his/her PIN. The merchant then enters the total amount before discount (£120) and specifies whether further use of the voucher is to be allowed as in Fig. 2B.

The database is updated and the results page is then displayed on the mobile communication device stating that the transaction is now complete and the total amount due after discount (£90) . The merchant is then invited to return the mobile communication device to Mr "A" who then selects "continue" as in Fig. 2C.

5 A courtesy (summary or signing-off) page is then displayed on the mobile communication device, which includes the total amount payable after the discount (£90) , and if "yes" was selected to allow further use of the voucher, a message informing Mr "A" that he can

10 use the voucher again at this particular restaurant.

The procedure is concluded with a link back to the home page, as in Figs. 2D and 2E. The above procedure can also be tailored to operate using any mobile service or protocol .

■15

In the case of set amount off vouchers, the procedure is as follows. Mr "A" has to be registered on the database with a PIN and a password. Mr "A" visits (i.e. physically attends) a department store listed on

20 the database. When he is at the point of sale (POS) he must go to the department store entry on his mobile communication device and select "claim voucher". The server asks for his PIN and password and then checks the database to see if Mr "A" is entitled to a discount

25 (for example a £20 discount) . Once this is entered and checked the discount entitlement is authorised and displayed on the screen of the mobile communication device.

30 The mobile communication device is then handed to the merchant who enters his/her PIN. The merchant then enters the total amount before discount (£120) and an instruction of whether or not further use is to be allowed .

The database is updated and the results page is then displayed on the mobile communication device stating that the transaction is now complete and the total amount due after discount (£100) . The merchant is then invited to return the mobile communication device to Mr "A" who then selects "continue".

The courtesy page is then displayed on the mobile communication device, which includes the total amount payable after the discount (£100) , and if "yes" was selected to allow further use of the voucher, a message informing Mr "A" that he can use the voucher again at the department store. The procedure is concluded with a link back to the home page. The above procedure can also be tailored to operate using any mobile service or protocol .

In the case of an offer of complimentary goods or services, the procedure is as follows. Mr "A" has to be registered on the database with a PIN and a password. Mr "A" visits a golf course listed on the database, and presents himself at a cash desk or POS. When he is at the POS he must go to the golf course entry on his mobile communication device and select "claim voucher". The server asks for his PIN and password and then checks the database to see if Mr "A" is entitled to a discount (for example a 2 for 1 offer) . Once this is entered and checked the discount entitlement is authorised and displayed on the screen of the mobile communication device. The mobile communication device is then handed to the merchant (in this case, golf course manager or employee) who enters his/her PIN. The merchant then enters the total amount before discount (£40) and if further use is to be allowed.

The database is updated and the results page is then displayed on the mobile communication device stating that the transaction is now complete and the nature of the complimentary offer (for example, one free round of golf) . The merchant is then invited to return the mobile communication device to Mr "A" who then selects "continue" .

The courtesy page is then displayed on the mobile communication device, which includes the complimentary offer (one free round of golf) , and if "yes" was selected to allow further use of the voucher, a message informing Mr "A" that he can use the voucher again at the golf course. The procedure is concluded with a link back to the home page. The above procedure can also be tailored to operate using any mobile service or protocol .

Further embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to Figures 3A to 3H, which correspond to the technical description and complementary prototype source code provided in Steps 1 to 8 below. The invention has been assigned the name "M+Voucher" in the following description, but it is not intended to be a limiting term. The invention may be marketed under a variety of names, such as "Mi Voucher" and "evoucher". Step 1 (see Fig . 3A)

To access M+Voucher enter the wapsite address into the wireless device (this could have been previously book marked on the device for ease of use) . In this case the wapsite address is http: //intcentives . com. The wireless device could be a WAP enabled phone, a GPRS phone, a PDA device or any other wireless communication device which supports the wml/xml protocol. The algorithm is transparent to the platform. The wapsite could provide any number of options or just one option could be given to the User. In this case the User has 5 options.

Select "Enter Site".

Prototype Source Code

<?xml version="l .0"?>

<!D0CTYPE wml PUBLIC " -//WAPFORUM//DTD WML 1.1//EN" "http : //www. wapforum. org/DTD/wml_l .1.xml" > <wml>

<card id="default .wml" title="Intcentives Ltd."> <a href="AboutUs .wml" >About Us</aχbr/> <a href="EnterSite . wml" >Enter Site</axbr/>

<a href="MembersArea .wml" >Members Area</aχbr/> <a href="JoinOnline .wml" >Join Online</axbr/> <a href="ContactUs .wml" >Contact Us</aχbr/>

</card>

</wml>

Step 2 (see Fig. 3B)

Upon entering the site there could be a choice of categories .

In this case there are 8 different categories. M+Voucher can be customised to provide any number of categories .

M+Voucher can also be customised to provide individual vouchers to individual merchants. This will depend on promotional requirements.

Select a category; in this case "Fine Dining" is selected.

Prototype Source Code

<?xml version="1.0"?>

<!D0CTYPE wml PUBLIC " -//WAPFORUM//DTD WML 1.1//EN" "http: //www. wapforum.org/DTD/wml_l .1.xml">

<wml>

<card id="EnterSite.wml" title="Enter Site">

<a href="FDIndex. wml" >Fine Dining</axbr/> <a href="CDIndex. wml " >Casual Dining</aχbr/> <a href="HIndex. wml " >Hotels</aχbr/> <a href="HTIndex. wml" >Holidays and Travel</axbr/> <a href="AMIndex. wml ">Arts and Music</axbr/> <a href="SSIndex. wml" >Sports and Special Events</axbr/> <a href="SMIndex. wml" >Shopping Mall</aχbr/> <a href="ETIndex. wml ">E-Tailers</axbr/> <a href="default .wml" >Home</a>

</do>

</do> </card>

</wml>

Step 3 (see Fig. 3C)

After selecting Fine Dining there could be a selection of different towns. Here, a "town" is a geographical area containing one or more merchants taking part in the voucher scheme so that the user may be able to obtain a discount . In this case there are 6 to choose from.

M+Voucher can be customised to provide any number of towns or one town.

Select a town, in this case "Altrincham" is selected. Prototype Source Code

^■ <?xml version="l .0"?>  <!DOCTYPE wml PUBLIC " -//WAPFORUM//DTD WML 1.1//EN" "http : //www. wapforum. org/DTD/wml_l .1.xml" >

<wml>

<a href="FDAltr . wml " >Altrincham</axbr/>

<a href="FDBarton. wml" >Barton-upon-Humber</aχbr/> <a href="FDBeverley. wml" >Beverley</axbr/>

<a href="FDBlackpool . wml " >Blackpool</aχbr/>

<a href="FDBoston. wml ">Boston</axbr/>

<a href="FDBourne . wml">Bourne</axbr/>

</do> <do type="prev" label="Back">

<prev/>

</do>

</card>

</wml> Step 4 (see Fig . 3D)

After selecting Altrincham the user needs to select the merchant required in Altrincham.

In this case "Raimondo's" is selected.

Any number of details about the merchant can be displayed.

In this case the street address, the town, the county, the postcode and the telephone number is displayed.

The phone number could be selected to call the merchant .

The details of the offer provided by M+Voucher could then be displayed. In this case, 25% off the total bill, one to four people, no restrictions, no pre-warning.

Select "Claim Voucher".

Prototype Source Code

<?xml version="l .0"?>

<!DOCTYPE wml PUBLIC " -//WAPFORUM//DTD WML 1.1//EN" "http : //www. wapforum. org/DTD/wml_l .1.xml" >

<wml>

<card id="FDAltr . wml" title="Fine Dining" > Raimondo ' s 6 The Downs Altrincham

Cheshire

WA14 2PU

Tel: 0161 9280912 Member's Discount

25% off the total bill, one to four people, no restrictions no pre-warning.

<a href="MVFDl .wml">Claim Voucher</a> <a href="default .wml " >Home</a>

</do> <do type="accept " label="Claim Voucher" >

</do>

</do> </card>

</wml>

Step 5 (see Fig. 3E)

After selecting Claim Voucher the wml browser will hold several environmental variables and user variables . The primary user variable will be the unique ID of the merchant's listing and will be passed into the first stage of the M+Voucher algorithm. This is essential for authentification against the user to verify the user's entitlement to M+Voucher with this particular merchant. The user is prompted in the browser for their own personal and unique username/membership number and password though not restricted to, and/or any other form of user identification.

In this case "Membership Number" and "Password" need to be entered into the device. These details are already held on a database, which is located on an Internet server.

Select "Continue".

Prototype Source Code

<?xml version="l.0"?>

<!DOCTYPE wml PUBLIC " -//WAPFORUM//DTD WML 1.1//EN" "http: //www. wapforum.org/DTD/wml_l .1.xml">

<wml>

<card id="MVFDl . wml " title="Welcome to M+Voucher">

Please enter your membership number and password to enable your M+Voucher to be authorised

Membership No: <input name="title" type=" text "/>

Password: <input name="title" type="password"/xbr/>

<a href="MVFD2.wml" >Continue</a>

Step 6 (see Fig. 3F)

After selecting Continue the ID of the merchant's listing, the username and the password are all sent into the next script which will firstly authenticate the user and will extract the user's name from the SQL database and use it for display on this next screen. It will also dynamically select the discount from the merchant's listing entry in the database and will display it on this same screen. At this point the authentification emphasis shifts from the user to the merchant and they are challenged for their merchant

PIN. This is cross-referenced against the merchant's ID variable which will be inherited from the initial M+Voucher process.

a) In the case where the merchant and the user are in a face-to-face situation, the device is passed to the merchant .

In this case the restaurateur or the restaurateur's member of staff. The merchant enters his/her "PIN".

This information is already held on a database, which is located on an Internet server.

The merchant enters the "Total Bill Before

Discount" . The merchant also selects "Yes" or "No" to allow or disallow further use of the M+Voucher at this establishment . The merchant then selects "Continue".

b) In the case where the merchant and the user are NOT in a face-to-face situation. The merchant tells the user which digits to enter as the "PIN".

This information is already held on a database, which is located on an Internet server. The merchant tells the user what to enter as the "Total Before Discount".

The merchant also tells the user whether to select "Yes" or "No" to allow or disallow further use of the M+Voucher at this establishment.

The user then selects "Continue".

Prototype Source Code

<?xml version="l .0 "?>  <!DOCTYPE wml PUBLIC " -//WAPFORUM//DTD WML 1.1//EN" "http: //www.wapforum.org/DTD/wml_l .1.xml">

<wml>

<card id="MVFD2.wml" title= "M+Voucher Authorised" >

This M+Voucher entitles Mr Christopher Denton to 25% off the total bill 1-4 people, no restrictions no pre- warning Merchant Enter : Pin: <input name="title" type="text "/>

Total Before Discount: <input name="title" type="text"/>

Allow Further Use: <select name="x" iname="i"> <option value="y">yes</option>

</select>

<a href="MV3.wml" >Continue</a>

</do>

</card> </wml>

Step 7 (see Fig. 3G)

After selecting continue the server will process the new variables and using the discount code held in the database, will calculate the new total amount due and will again stream in wml format to the browser, the new total amount due .

A Transaction Report is displayed and selecting continue will also initiate the Internet Server to send a Transaction Report Email to the email address, which is relevant to the PIN that was entered.

This email address is already held on a database, which is located on an Internet server. The discount could be

1. a percentage off

2. complimentary goods or services to be received 3. or a set amount off such as a gift voucher. In this case a percentage off is calculated by the Internet server.

The Transaction Report could contain any number of details including "Total Amount Due".

In this case "Total Amount Due" is displayed. The Transaction Report Email could contain details such as user's name, user's membership number, total before discount, further use is allowed or disallowed and total amount due. Then : a) In the case where the merchant and the user are in a face-to-face situation, the device is returned to the user.

The user selects "Continue'

b) In the case where the merchant and the user are NOT in a face-to-face situation the merchant can ask the user to quote his/her name and membership number, these two details can be checked against the details on the Transaction Report Email. If either of these details that the user quotes do not correspond with the details contained in the email, then the merchant has the right to decline the user the use of their M+Voucher. Or if the Transaction Report Email show that the user selected Yes to allow further use and the merchant had asked that No be selected, then the merchant has the right to decline the user the use of their

M+Voucher .

The user selects "Continue". Prototype Source Code

<?xml version="l .0"?>  <!DOCTYPE wml PUBLIC " -//WAPFORUM//DTD WML 1.1//EN" "http: //www. wapforum.org/DTD/wml_l .1.xml">

<wml>

Thank you, this M+Voucher transaction is now complete .

Total Amount Due: £

Please return the phone to Mr Christopher Denton

<a href="MV4.wml" >Continue</a>

</do>

</card>

</wml>

Step 8 (see Fig. 3H)

After selecting Continue a courtesy page could be displayed on the device. This could include any number of details including

Total Amount Due and whether use for your M+Voucher is allowed or disallowed on a future visit .

In this case the "Total Amount Payable" and "You can use your M+Voucher again on a future visit."

The user could then choose from a number of different options .

In this case "Home" or "M+Pay".

M+Pay will link the user to a mobile payment site.

Prototype Source Code

<?xml version="l .0"?>

<!D0CTYPE wml PUBLIC " -//WAPFORUM//DTD WML 1.1//EN" ^" "http: //www. wapforum.org/DTD/wml 1.1.xml">

:wml:

We hope you enjoyed your visit, thank you for using your Intact membership . Total Amount Payable: £

You can use your M+Voucher again on a future visit.

M+Pay enables payment via your Device

_<go href="default .wml "/> <do type="accept " label="M+Pay"> <go href="default .wml"/> </do> </card>

</wml>

Claims

1. A method for providing at least one voucher via at least one mobile communication device, the method comprising:

storing voucher data for at least one merchant in a database of a server accessible via the mobile communication device; enabling at least one user to access the database and select at least one voucher via the at least one mobile communication device; and enabling access to the database and authorisation of the at least one voucher via the at least one mobile communication device.

2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the database is updated following the authorisation of the at least one voucher.

3. A method according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein at least one merchant accesses the database and authorises the at least one voucher via the at least one mobile communication device.

4. A method according to any of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the at least one voucher is a percentage-off discount voucher type.

5. A method according to any of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the at least one voucher is a set amount off voucher type .

6. A method according to any of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the at least one voucher is an offer of complimentary goods or services type of voucher.

7. A method according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one voucher is a combination of any of the vouchers according to claims 4 to 6.

8. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one mobile communication device is used to input an initial total bill which is communicated to the server, the server having a processor coupled to the database that processes the initial total bill in conjunction with the voucher data in order to produce a final amount due which is displayed on the at least one mobile communication device.

9. A method according to claim 8, wherein the processor calculates a percentage discount amount based on the initial total bill and the voucher data, the voucher data setting the level of percentage discount to be applied to the initial total bill, and the processor deducts the percentage discount amount from the initial total bill in order to produce the final amount due .

10. A method according to claim 8, wherein the voucher data is a set amount off, and the processor deducts the set amount off from the initial total bill in order to produce the final amount due.

11. A method according to claim 8, wherein the voucher data is an offer of complimentary goods or services, and the processor processes the initial total bill in conjunction with the offer of complimentary goods or services in order to produce the final amount due.

12. A method according to claim 8, wherein the initial total bill is processed in conjunction with the voucher data by a combination of any of the methods of claims 9 to 11.

13. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein in order for the at least one user to access the database, the at least one user enters user identification information.

14. A method according to any of claims 3 to 13, wherein in order for the at least one merchant to access the database, the at least one merchant enters merchant identification information.

15. A method according to any of claims 3 to 13, wherein the at least one merchant is remote from the at least one user, and the at least one merchant provides the at least one user with merchant identification information, thereby enabling^' the at least one user to enter the merchant identification information, access the database and authorise the at least one voucher via the at least one mobile communication device.

16. A method according to claim 13, wherein the user identification information comprises a membership number and a password.

17. A method according to any of claims 13 to 16, wherein the identification information comprises a personal identification number.

18. A method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the merchant identification information comprises a loyalty number.

19. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one merchant can modify the voucher data that is stored in the database.

20. A method according to claim 19, wherein the at least one merchant can modify the type of the at least one voucher.

21. A method according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the at least one merchant can modify the amount or the level of percentage discount of the at least one voucher.

22. A method according to any of claims 19 to 21, wherein the at least one merchant can modify the combination of a plurality of vouchers.

23. A method according to any of claims 19 to 22, wherein the at least one merchant can set an expiry date for the at least one voucher.

24. A method according to any of claims 19 to 23, wherein the at least one merchant can deactivate the at least one voucher after the at least one voucher has been used once .

25. A method according to any of claims 19 to 23, wherein the at least one merchant can specify the number of times that the at least one voucher can be redeemed before deactivation.

26. A method according to any of claims 14 to 25, wherein the at least one merchant can modify the merchant identification information.

27. A method according to claim 26, wherein the at least one merchant can change their personal identification number.

28. A method according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the merchant identification information includes a plurality of personal identification numbers and the at least one merchant can add or remove personal identification numbers in respect of staff that are in the employ of the at least one merchant.

29. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the database includes personal details of the at least one user.

30. A method according to claim 29, wherein the at least one user can modify the personal details.

31. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the database includes updated records of previous uses of the at least one voucher.

32. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one courtesy page is displayed on the mobile communication device after a transaction is completed.

33. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the name of the at least one user is displayed on the mobile communication device during a transaction.

34. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the name of the at least one merchant is displayed on the mobile communication device during a transaction.

35. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the procedure is configured to operate using any mobile service or protocol'.

36. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one mobile communication device is a WAP enabled mobile phone.

37. A method according to any of claims 1 to 35, wherein the at least one mobile communication device is a GPRS enabled phone.

38. A method according to any of claims 1 to 35, wherein the at least one mobile communication device is a PDA device .

39. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the server is connected to the Internet and wherein the mobile communication device communicates with the server via the Internet .

40. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the server is managed by the at least one merchant .

41. A method according to any of claims 1 to 39, wherein the server is managed by a third-party service provider.

42. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one merchant is provided with details of each transaction via email.

43. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one user is provided with details of each transaction via email. ^"

44. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the third-party service provider is provided with details of each transaction via email.

45. A system for providing at least one voucher via at least one mobile communication device, the system comprising:

a server having a database for storing voucher data for at least one merchant; a communications interface coupled to the server for communication with at least one mobile communication device through a mobile communications network for receiving information from the at least one mobile communication device and delivering at least one voucher to the at least one mobile communication device; and a processor for selecting at least one voucher stored in the database and for delivering a corresponding at least one voucher to the at least one mobile communication device via the communications interface in response to the information received from the at least one mobile communication device.

46. A system according to claim 45, wherein the information received from the at least one mobile communication device comprises an initial total bill and the processor is used to process the initial total bill in conjunction with the voucher data in order to calculate a final amount due which is delivered via the communications interface for display on the at least one mobile communication device.

47. A system according to claim 46, wherein the processor calculates a percentage discount amount based on the initial total bill and the voucher data, the voucher data setting the level of percentage discount to be applied to the initial total bill, and the processor deducts the percentage discount amount from the initial total bill in order to produce the final amount due .

48. A system according to claim 46, wherein the voucher data is a set amount off, and the processor deducts the set amount off from the initial total bill in order to produce the final amount due.

49. A system according to claim 46, wherein the voucher data is an offer of complimentary goods or services, and the processor processes the initial total bill in conjunction with the offer of complimentary goods or services in order to produce the final amount due.

50. A system according to any of claims 45 to 49, configured so as to operate using any mobile service oi protocol .

51. A system according to any of claims 45 to 50, wherein the communications interface performs communication via the Internet.

52. A server for providing a voucher via a mobile communication device, the server comprising:

a database for storing voucher data for at least one merchant ; a communications interface for communication with the mobile communication device through a mobile communications network for receiving information from the mobile communication device and delivering a voucher to the mobile communication device; and a processor for selecting a voucher stored in the database and for delivering said voucher to the mobile communication device via the communications interface in response to the information received from the mobile communication device.

53. Software which when run on a server, causes the server to perform the steps of: storing voucher data for at least one merchant in a database accessible via a mobile communication device; enabling at least one user to access the database and select a voucher via the mobile communication device; and enabling access to the database and authorisation of the voucher via the mobile communication device.