US20090083156A1 - Systems and methods for facilitating the staffing of promotional events - Google Patents
Systems and methods for facilitating the staffing of promotional events Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090083156A1 US20090083156A1 US12/260,058 US26005808A US2009083156A1 US 20090083156 A1 US20090083156 A1 US 20090083156A1 US 26005808 A US26005808 A US 26005808A US 2009083156 A1 US2009083156 A1 US 2009083156A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- event
- card
- purchase
- cards
- coordinator
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
- G06Q20/04—Payment circuits
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
- G06Q20/08—Payment architectures
- G06Q20/10—Payment architectures specially adapted for electronic funds transfer [EFT] systems; specially adapted for home banking systems
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
- G06Q20/08—Payment architectures
- G06Q20/10—Payment architectures specially adapted for electronic funds transfer [EFT] systems; specially adapted for home banking systems
- G06Q20/105—Payment architectures specially adapted for electronic funds transfer [EFT] systems; specially adapted for home banking systems involving programming of a portable memory device, e.g. IC cards, "electronic purses"
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
- G06Q20/08—Payment architectures
- G06Q20/20—Point-of-sale [POS] network systems
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
- G06Q20/30—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices or networks
- G06Q20/34—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices or networks using cards, e.g. integrated circuit [IC] cards or magnetic cards
- G06Q20/342—Cards defining paid or billed services or quantities
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
- G06Q20/38—Payment protocols; Details thereof
- G06Q20/40—Authorisation, e.g. identification of payer or payee, verification of customer or shop credentials; Review and approval of payers, e.g. check credit lines or negative lists
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/02—Marketing; Price estimation or determination; Fundraising
- G06Q30/0207—Discounts or incentives, e.g. coupons or rebates
- G06Q30/0217—Discounts or incentives, e.g. coupons or rebates involving input on products or services in exchange for incentives or rewards
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q30/00—Commerce
- G06Q30/06—Buying, selling or leasing transactions
- G06Q30/0601—Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q40/00—Finance; Insurance; Tax strategies; Processing of corporate or income taxes
- G06Q40/12—Accounting
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F7/00—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus
- G07F7/02—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by keys or other credit registering devices
- G07F7/025—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by keys or other credit registering devices by means, e.g. cards, providing billing information at the time of purchase, e.g. identification of seller or purchaser, quantity of goods delivered or to be delivered
Definitions
- a number of companies such as product manufacturers and product distributors use event coordinators to coordinate product demonstrations in public areas such as retail stores.
- the event coordinator directs event operators to buy the demonstration products from retail stores and distribute or demonstrate the products within the retail stores on a given date for a given time duration.
- the manufacturer or the event coordinator may specify the location and time of the demonstration event.
- a cooking utensil manufacturer asks an event coordinator to coordinate an event demonstrating its cooking utensils.
- the event coordinator then directs event operators to go to a retail store, purchase the cooking utensils, purchase food, and present a food preparation demonstration in the retail store with the purchased cooking utensils and food.
- the event operator sets up a booth with promotional items and advertisements, so that the event operator can introduce and promote the products.
- the event operator distributes products to customers of the retail store at a reduced price or free of charge.
- the bank 110 can include a collection of banks and/or other financial institutions (e.g., a credit card service that issues debits cards).
- the product manufacturer 100 , the event coordinator 102 , the agency 104 , the event operator 105 , the fund distribution service 108 , and the bank 110 can exist as one entity or a plurality of entities.
- employees of the product manufacturer 100 can provide the services of the event coordinator 102 , the agency 104 and the event operators 105 .
- the event coordinator 102 can include the fund distribution service 108 and the bank 110 as its own internal financial service facilities.
- the fund distribution service 108 later bills the event coordinator 102 for the amount purchased on the cards 702 .
- the cards 702 assist the event coordinator 102 or the agency 104 in verifying that the event operators 105 made the specified purchases for the demonstration.
- the cards 702 also help verify that the event operators 105 conducted the events at the date, time and location specified by the event coordinator 102 or the agency 104 .
- the process returns to the block 404 to allow the event operator 105 to re-enter the card ID, the PIN number, or the event ID.
- the decision block 412 if the information has been rejected more than two times, there is a presumption that the information was rejected for a reason other than a mistaken entry, and the card is blocked at a block 414 .
- the card administration system updates the card's status to a blocked status, so that the card can no longer be used by an event operator 105 .
- the number of rejections allowed is a variable that can be modified by the event coordinator 102 or the fund distribution service 108 .
- FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of the card reading device 202 placed near the cash register 240 within the retail store 106 .
- the configuration allows for the event operator 105 to use the card 702 by swiping or inserting it at the card reading device 202 .
- One embodiment of the card reading device 202 is Master Card's Maestro card reading device.
- the process advances to a block 808 , where the card reading device 202 sends data through the point-of-sale network 212 to the fund distribution service 108 .
- the sent data includes the total purchase amount, the card ID of the card 702 , and optionally other information, such as the identifications of the items to be purchased, the current date and time, and the identification of the retail store 106 .
- the card reading device 202 sends data to a card administration system maintained by the fund distribution service 108 , by the event coordinator 102 , or jointly by the fund distribution service 108 and the event coordinator 102 .
- a card information database at the fund distribution service 108 is connected to a card administration system of the event coordinator 102 .
- the fund distribution service reduces the card balance in the card information database, and notifies the card administration system to reduce the card balance in the card administration system. The process then advances to an end block 818 .
Abstract
This invention relates to the methods of coordinating product and service demonstrations. An event coordinator directs event operators to conduct a product or service demonstration event. The event coordinator provides event operators with cards, such as debit cards, credit cards, or smart cards, to purchase items needed for the demonstration. The event operator contacts a card administration system to activate the card. The card administration system verifies that the provided card ID and event ID are valid, and associates an authorized budget of the demonstration event with the card. The event operator then purchases items with the card, and conducts demonstrations.
Description
- This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/013,826, filed Dec. 7, 2001, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The invention relates generally to the methods for remotely managing financial expenditures by employees, and more particularly to the methods for coordinating product and service demonstrations.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- A number of companies such as product manufacturers and product distributors use event coordinators to coordinate product demonstrations in public areas such as retail stores. In a typical scenario, the event coordinator directs event operators to buy the demonstration products from retail stores and distribute or demonstrate the products within the retail stores on a given date for a given time duration. The manufacturer or the event coordinator may specify the location and time of the demonstration event. For example, a cooking utensil manufacturer asks an event coordinator to coordinate an event demonstrating its cooking utensils. The event coordinator then directs event operators to go to a retail store, purchase the cooking utensils, purchase food, and present a food preparation demonstration in the retail store with the purchased cooking utensils and food. Typically the event operator sets up a booth with promotional items and advertisements, so that the event operator can introduce and promote the products. Often the event operator distributes products to customers of the retail store at a reduced price or free of charge.
- The event operator is usually an employee of an agency contracted by the event coordinator. In another embodiment, the event operator is an employee of the event coordinator. The term “employee” is used in the present application to include independent contractors. In typical situations, the event coordinator will utilize an agency's event operators, because the event coordinator does not have its own employees physically located in the geographical locale in which the products are to be demonstrated. The event operators are provided funds, typically in the form of cash or checks, for buying the demonstration products. The event coordinator must rely on the trustworthiness of agencies to direct employees to the demonstration locations. The event coordinator must also rely on the trustworthiness of the event operators to use the provided funds to purchase the demonstration products, instead of using the funds for their personal purposes. The event coordinator must further rely on the trustworthiness of the event operators to work in the specified demonstration location on the specified date for the specified time period.
- The event operators need to be provided funds to purchase necessary items in order to conduct the demonstration event. Credit cards can be used to make purchases without the use of cash. However, many conventional credit cards do not deduct the purchase amount from a sum of money held by the consumers. Rather, credit cards in effect provide a loan to the consumer to be paid back at a later time. If credit cards are provided to the event operators to make required purchases, the event coordinator cannot control the amount and nature of purchases. Debit cards allow a consumer to make a purchase for products without the use of cash by directly deducting the purchase amount from the consumer's bank account. Debit cards also provide a similar advantage to credit cards in that a record of purchases can be tracked according to usage of the card. With cash purchases, only the consumer can keep track of the purchases by collecting receipts.
- One aspect of the invention relates to a method of coordinating product or service demonstrations. The method includes the acts of receiving a request from a vendor to organize a demonstration event, defining the demonstration event in a card administration system, providing cards to event operators, instructing the event operators to activate the cards by contacting the card administration system, instructing the event operators to use the activated cards to purchase items for conducting the event, and instructing the event operators to use the purchased items to conduct the event. A card can be a debit card, a smart card, a credit card, a hybrid debit-credit card that allows a user to spend a percentage of deposited money and use the deposit as security, and the like. The event can be a product demonstration event to display, promote, or distribute products. The event can also be a service demonstration event to introduce or promote services. Examples of services may include travel agency services, financial services, and other services. A vendor is typically an entity that provides the demonstrated products or services.
- Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of conducting a product or service demonstration event. The method includes the acts of receiving an instruction for conducting a demonstration event, receiving a card, activating the card by contacting a card administration system, using the card to purchase items for conducting the demonstration event, and using the purchased items to conduct the demonstration event.
- Still another aspect of the invention relates to a method of facilitating a product or service demonstration event. The method includes the acts of receiving instructions from an event coordinator to conduct the demonstration event, receiving cards from the event coordinator, assigning cards to event operators, directing event operators to activate the assigned cards by contacting a card administration system, directing event operators to use the activated cards to purchase items for conducting the demonstration event, directing event operators to use the purchased items to conduct the demonstration event, and compensating event operators for conducting the demonstration event.
- Yet another aspect of the invention relates to a method of providing cards for conducting product or service demonstrations. The method includes the acts of issuing cards and creating records for the issued cards. Each of the created card records includes a card identifier of the card and a balance of the card. The method further includes the act of creating records for demonstration events. Each of the created event records includes an event identifier of the event and an authorized budget of the event. The method further includes receiving activation requests, wherein each of the activation requests provides at least a card identifier of a requesting card and an event identifier of a requesting event. The method further includes the acts of incrementing the balance of the requesting card by the authorized budget of the requesting event and authorizing a retail request to use one of the cards to purchase items, if the total purchase amount does not exceed the balance of the card.
-
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the relationships between the entities involved in coordinating product and service demonstrations. -
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the functional elements of the system for coordinating product and service demonstrations. -
FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a process of distributing cards to event operators and conducting demonstrations. -
FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of the process of an event operator activating a card. -
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of the process of a card administration system activating a card. -
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of a card reading device and a cash register. -
FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of a card. -
FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a card purchase authorization process. -
FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of a computer screen for maintaining event records in a card administration system. -
FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of a computer screen for maintaining card records in a card administration system. -
FIG. 1 is a block diagram that illustrates the relationships between entities involved in coordinating product and service demonstrations. The entities include aproduct manufacturer 100, anevent coordinator 102, anagency 104, anevent operator 105, aretail store 106, afund distribution service 108, and abank 110. Theproduct manufacturer 100 can also be a service vendor that provides services. A service vendor can be, for example, a travel agency, a transportation company, a financial brokerage firm, a real estate agency, an Internet service provider, and the like. - Optionally, the
bank 110 can include a collection of banks and/or other financial institutions (e.g., a credit card service that issues debits cards). Optionally, theproduct manufacturer 100, theevent coordinator 102, theagency 104, theevent operator 105, thefund distribution service 108, and thebank 110, can exist as one entity or a plurality of entities. For example, employees of theproduct manufacturer 100 can provide the services of theevent coordinator 102, theagency 104 and theevent operators 105. For another example, theevent coordinator 102 can include thefund distribution service 108 and thebank 110 as its own internal financial service facilities. - In one embodiment, the
product manufacturer 100 contacts theevent coordinator 102 to request a demonstration of a particular product. A service vendor can also contact theevent coordinator 102 to request a demonstration of a particular service. Theevent coordinator 102 directs its own employees or employees from theagency 104 to work asevent operators 105 at theretail store 106. In particular, theevent operators 105 are directed by theevent coordinator 102 or theagency 104 to demonstrate a given product at a given demonstration location on a given date. Theevent coordinator 102 orders a supply of cards 702 (seeFIG. 7 ) from thefund distribution service 108 to be used by theevent operators 105 for purchasing the items necessary for the demonstration. In one embodiment, theevent coordinator 102 provides funds to thebank 110 to be held in trust for thefund distribution service 108. The funds cover the total authorized budget for the demonstration events. For anevent operator 105 using a givencard 702, the authorized budget is the amount sufficient for purchasing one or more of the items to be demonstrated. The authorized budget is also sufficient for purchasing ancillary items in order to conduct the demonstration. For example, the authorized budget for demonstrating a food product may include funds to purchase the food product and funds to purchase paper plates, forks, and the like, for demonstrating the food product. In another example, the authorized budget for the demonstration of a travel agency service includes the funds to purchase items such as pens and paper to prepare for visual presentation of the service to customers of the retail store. The budget may also include funds to purchase other items such as food and souvenirs to be given to customers of the retail store. - In another embodiment, the
fund distribution service 108 later bills theevent coordinator 102 for the amount purchased on thecards 702. Thecards 702 assist theevent coordinator 102 or theagency 104 in verifying that theevent operators 105 made the specified purchases for the demonstration. Thecards 702 also help verify that theevent operators 105 conducted the events at the date, time and location specified by theevent coordinator 102 or theagency 104. - The
fund distribution service 108 provides theevent coordinator 102 withcards 702 that include respective card ID information. In one embodiment, eachcard 702 is also associated with a respective PIN number that identifies thecard 702. Companies such as GE Capital, American Express, or Comdata Corporation can be used as thefund distribution service 108. Theevent coordinator 102 can also create its ownfund distribution service 108. Thecard 702 can be a debit card, a credit card, a smart card, or another type of computer accessible storage medium. A credit card typically stores information on a magnetic strip of the credit card. A smart card typically stores information in a microchip of the smart card. Information can also be stored on other computer accessible storage medium such as floppy disks or optical disks. For convenience, all of the various embodiments are referred to in the present application ascards 702. - In one embodiment described below, the
event coordinator 102, thefund distribution service 108, or both entities can use a card administration system to automate the card administration process. Thefund distribution service 108 provides thecards 702 to theevent coordinator 102, theagency 104, or theevent operator 105. A balance is associated with eachindividual card 702. Thecard 702 can be deactivated after the demonstration is completed. - In one embodiment, the
event coordinator 102 uses the card administration system to maintain records for thecards 702 and records for the demonstration events. Theevent coordinator 102 typically assignsmultiple cards 702 to eachagency 104. Theevent coordinator 102 can also change the PIN numbers of thecards 702 assigned to theagency 104. In one embodiment, some or all of thecards 702 assigned to anagency 104 share the same PIN number, therefore reducing the number of PIN numbers that theagency 104 needs to maintain. - Prior to starting the demonstration, the
event operator 105 activates thecard 702 he or she will be using by contacting a card administration system. Theevent operator 105 contacts the card administration system using an automated device through a communication medium such as a telephone line or a computer network. The automated device can be a Voice Recognition Unit (VRU) that accepts input by voice recognition, or a device that accepts input from the keypad of a telephone (including a cellular phone), from the keyboard of a computer or personal digital assistant, or from other wired or wireless electronic devices. Theevent operator 105 provides the automated device with a card ID and an event ID. After receiving the card ID and the event ID, the card administration system authorizes thecard 702 with the provided card ID to be used for the event with the provided event ID. The card administration system associates thecard 702 with the event's authorized budget. In another embodiment, theevent coordinator 102 or theagency 104 contacts the card administration system directly or through the automated device to activate thecards 702 that will be used byevent operators 105. The card administration system can be administered by theevent coordinator 102, thefund distribution service 108, or a third party. - The
event operator 105 uses the authorizedcard 702 to purchase items at theretail store 106. The card ID and the PIN number are forwarded from theretail store 106 to thefund distribution service 108. Thefund distribution service 108 verifies that the forwarded card ID and the PIN number matches the card ID and the PIN number stored at thefund distribution service 108, authorizes theretail store 106 purchase, reduces the card's 702 balance by the purchase amount, and optionally deducts the purchase amount from the event coordinator's funds inbank 110. In one embodiment, thefund distribution service 108 also verifies that the event associated with thecard 702 represents an event that is still open. -
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the functional elements of the system for coordinating product and service demonstrations. Theretail store 106 includes a plurality ofevent operators 105 shown at a plurality ofdemonstrations 206, a plurality ofcash registers 240, a plurality ofcard reading devices 202, a plurality oftime recording devices 204, and a plurality ofaisles 210. Thecard reading devices 202 and thecash registers 240 are preferably located in close proximity at checkout lanes of theretail store 106. Each of theevent operators 105 may be any individual or group of individuals that assist with the demonstration of a good or service. - The
product manufacturer 100 issues a request to theevent coordinator 102 to conduct a product demonstration event. Theevent coordinator 102 requests and receivescards 702 from thefund distribution service 108 to be used to purchase items for conducting the event. Theevent coordinator 102 also identifies to thefund distribution service 108 an account at abank 110 from which the event coordinator's funds will be used to support the purchases. Thecards 702 are assigned to theevent operators 105 to be used as described below. - When an
event operator 105 enters theretail store 106, theevent operator 105 swipes or inserts acard 702 at thetime recording device 204 to record his or her work starting time. Thetime recording device 204 records the time and sends the time entry data and the card ID to the point-of-sale network 212. Optionally, thetime recording device 204 can be a kiosk, wireless device, PDA, cellular phone, or any other device capable of recording time entries. In one embodiment, thecard reading device 202 also functions as atime recording device 204 to record time entries. The point-of-sale network 212 is preferably a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). One skilled in the art will recognize that the point-of-sale network 212 can also be the Internet, a cable television (CATV) network, a satellite network, or any other communications network. When theevent operator 105 has completed the demonstration and is ready to exit theretail store 106, he or she swipes or inserts thecard 702 at thetime recording device 204 to record his or her work ending time. The point-of-sale network 212 sends the time entry data to theevent coordinator 102. Optionally, the identity or location of theretail store 106 is also sent to theevent coordinator 102, so that theevent coordinator 102 can verify that theevent operator 105 went to the specifiedretail store 106. The point-of-sale network 212 sends data to theevent coordinator 102 through thefund distribution service 108 and thenetwork 218. Thenetwork 218 is preferably a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). One skilled in the art will recognize that thenetwork 218 can also be the Internet, a cable television (CATV) network, a satellite network, or any other communications network. In another embodiment, the point-of-sale network 212 sends data directly to theevent coordinator 102. - After recording his or her work starting time, the
event operator 105 then purchases the items needed for the product or service demonstration by searching through theaisles 210 of theretail store 106. Theevent operator 105 takes the items to thecash register 240 and purchases the items by swiping or inserting thecard 702 at thecard reading device 202. In one embodiment in which thecard reading device 202 can function as atime recording device 204, theevent operator 105 records work starting time by swiping or inserting thecard 702 at thecard reading device 202 at thecash register 240 at the same time as purchasing an item or before the purchase of an item. - In one embodiment, the
event operator 105 purchases items at anautomated cash register 240, without the help of a store employee. Theevent operator 105 swipes or inserts thecard 702 at thecard reading device 202. The automatedcash register 240 then authorizes the purchase. - When the
event operator 105 purchases the items by swiping or inserting thecard 702, data received by thecard reading device 202 is sent from the point-of-sale network 212 to thefind distribution service 108, which determines if the purchase amount falls within the balance of thecard 702. If the purchase amount falls within the balance, the purchase is authorized and the purchase amount is deducted from the balance on thecard 702. In one embodiment, the identities of the items to be purchased are also sent to thefund distribution service 108. The identity of an item can include an item identifier such as an UPC (Uniform Product Code) code, or an item name. The identities of the items are compared against a list of authorized items for the event associated with thecard 702, to ensure that theevent operator 105 purchased the authorized items, instead of other items for personal use. In one embodiment, the identities of authorized items are stored on thecard 702. A smart card is preferably used to store the identities of authorized items. Other information, such as the location or identity of theretail store 106, can also be sent to thefund distribution service 108 to ensure that theevent operator 105 is at the correct location. After theevent operator 105 completes the purchase, theevent operator 105 conducts thedemonstration 206 using the purchase items. If the purchase amount exceeds the balance, the purchase will be rejected. - The point-of-
sale network 212 sends the time entry data and the purchase data of theevent operators 105 from theretail store 106 to thefund distribution service 108. Thefund distribution service 108 then uses thenetwork 216 to issue a request to thebank 110 to transfer the purchase amounts from the funds of theevent coordinator 102 to an account of theretail store 106. In another embodiment, the point-of-sale network 212 directly sends the purchase data of theevent operators 105 to thebank 110. Thebank 110 optionally verifies that the purchase data received directly from the point-of-sale network 212 matches the purchase data received from thefund distribution service 108. Thebank 110 transfers the purchase amounts from the funds of theevent coordinator 102 to an account of theretail store 106. - After completing the demonstration, the
event operator 105 proceeds to thetime recording device 204 and swipes or inserts thecard 702 to record his or her work ending time. The total working time of theevent operator 105 is determined by deducting the recorded ending time from the recorded starting time. The recorded work starting time, the recorded work ending time and the total working time are sent from the point-of-sale network 212 to thefund distribution service 108. Thefund distribution service 108 sends the time entry data and the purchase data to theevent coordinator 102. In another embodiment, the time entry data and the purchase data are sent directly from the point-of-sale network 212 to theevent coordinator 102. - The
event coordinator 102 uses the received data to evaluate the work performance ofevent operators 105. Based on the evaluation, the event coordinator provides further instructions to theagency 104 or to theevent operators 105. Theevent coordinator 102 uses the purchase data to determine if theevent operators 105 are making the proper purchases. Theevent coordinator 102 sends a report of demonstration performance to theproduct manufacturer 100. Theevent coordinator 102 can also send the time entry data and the purchase data to theproduct manufacturer 100. In one embodiment, based on the report received from theevent coordinator 102, the data received from theevent coordinator 102, or both the report and the data, theproduct manufacturer 100 determines the amount of compensation to be paid to theevent coordinator 102. For example, the amount of compensation can be the total purchase amount on authorized purchases plus a fixed percentage. The amount of compensation can be adjusted based on the time entry data and the purchase data. For example, the amount of compensation can be adjusted based on the time duration of demonstrations, the number of demonstrations conducted on a certain date, the number of demonstrations conducted on a certain product, the number of demonstrations conducted at a certain location, and so forth. Theevent coordinator 102 uses the time entry data and the purchase data, the report, and feedback from theproduct manufacturer 100 to adjust future work assignments. For example, theevent coordinator 102 may decide to usemore event operators 105 in a certain area or on a certain product. - In one embodiment, the
card 702 employs smart card technology. Thecard 702 includes an imbedded computer chip, and thecard reading device 202 is a smart card reader. The event ID, the card ID, and the PIN number can be stored on thecard 702. In addition, the authorized budget and the authorized items for the event can be stored on thecard 702. Multiple event IDs for multiple events, the respective authorized budgets for the events, and the respective authorized items for the events, can also be stored on thecard 702. By entering an event ID at thecard reading device 202, theevent operator 105 can select an event to be associated with thecard 702. In another embodiment, theevent operator 105 contacts a card administration system and selects an event to be associated with thecard 702. -
FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a process for distributingcards 702 toevent operators 105 and for conducting demonstrations. The process begins at ablock 300. The process advances from theblock 300 to ablock 302, where theevent coordinator 102 receives a request from theproduct manufacturer 100 to organize a demonstration event at theretail store 106. The process then advances to ablock 304, where theevent coordinator 102 assigns an event ID for the given demonstration event. An event can be defined as activities in a single day, or a number of days. An event can be defined as demonstrations on a particular product, or on a number of products. An event can also be defined as demonstrations of a particular service, or a number of services. - The process advances from the
block 304 to ablock 306, where theevent coordinator 102 authorizes a budget for use by eachevent operator 105 in purchasing items for the demonstration event. The budget is associated with the event ID. The process then advances to a block 308, where theevent coordinator 102 assigns anagency 104 or a number of agencies to organize the event. In another embodiment, theevent coordinator 102 directly assignsevent operators 105 to conduct the event. - The process then advances to a
block 310, where the assignedagency 104requests cards 702 from thefund distribution service 108. In one embodiment, theevent coordinator 105requests cards 702 from thefund distribution service 108. In one embodiment, theagency 104 or theevent coordinator 102 has retainedcards 702 previously provided by thefund distribution service 108, and redistributes thecards 702 to theevent operators 105 for the current demonstration event. - The process advances to a
block 312, where theagency 104 assignsevent operators 105 to the event, and assignscards 702 to the assignedevent operators 105. In one embodiment, theevent coordinator 102 assignscards 702 to theevent operators 105 to conduct the event. - The process then advances to a
block 314, where anevent operator 105 activates thecard 702 prior to a demonstration. In one embodiment, theevent operator 105 activates thecard 702 by entering the event ID into thecard reading device 212 at the time of purchase. One embodiment of the activation process is described below in connection withFIG. 4 . Optionally, theevent operator 105 can activate thecard 702 by calling a toll-free phone number or by accessing an activation web site. The process then advances to ablock 316, where theevent operator 105 swipes or inserts his or hercard 702 at atime recording device 204 to record his or her work starting time. - The process then advances to a
block 318, where theevent operator 105 uses thecard 702 to purchase items needed for the demonstration. The process then advances to ablock 320 where theevent operator 105 performs the demonstration. The term “demonstration” is used broadly in the present application to refer to the display, distribution, promotion, or advertising of products and services. The process then advances to ablock 322, where theevent operator 105 records his or her work ending time at atime recording device 204. The process then proceeds to anend block 324. -
FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of the process of anevent operator 105 activating acard 702. The process begins at ablock 400. The process advances to ablock 402, where theevent operator 105 contacts a card administration system by calling a phone number, preferably a toll-free number, to activate thecard 702. In another embodiment, theevent operator 105 contacts the card administration system by accessing an activation web site. The process then advances to ablock 404, where theevent operator 105 enters information such as the card ID of thecard 702, the PIN number of thecard 702, and the event ID for the particular demonstration event. In one embodiment, the PIN number is the last four digits of the card ID. In another embodiment in which acard 702 is not associated with a PIN number, theevent operator 105 enters the card ID and the event ID. The process advances to adecision block 406, where the card administration system determines whether thecard 702 associated with the entered card ID has been blocked. In one embodiment to be described below, the card administration system updates a card's 702 status to “blocked” if a user has attempted unsuccessfully more than twice to activate the card. The card administration system also updates a card's 702 status to “blocked” if the card has been reported stolen, or if theevent operator 105 or theagency 104 in possession of thecard 702 has been terminated by theevent coordinator 102. If thecard 702 has been blocked, the process advances to anend block 408, and theevent operator 105 cannot use thecard 702. To “un-block” a card, a system administrator of the card administration system updates the status of the card. If thecard 702 has not been blocked, the process advances to adecision block 410. - At the
decision block 410, the information entered inblock 404 is either accepted or rejected. The card administration system verifies that the entered card ID, the entered PIN number and the entered event ID are valid. One embodiment of the card administration verification process is described below in connection withFIG. 5 . If the information is not valid and is thus rejected, the process advances to adecision block 412 to determine if the information has been rejected more than two times. - At the
decision block 412, if the information has not been rejected more than two times, the process returns to theblock 404 to allow theevent operator 105 to re-enter the card ID, the PIN number, or the event ID. At thedecision block 412, if the information has been rejected more than two times, there is a presumption that the information was rejected for a reason other than a mistaken entry, and the card is blocked at ablock 414. The card administration system updates the card's status to a blocked status, so that the card can no longer be used by anevent operator 105. In one embodiment, the number of rejections allowed is a variable that can be modified by theevent coordinator 102 or thefund distribution service 108. - If the information is accepted at the
decision block 410, the process advances to ablock 416, where thecard 702 is associated with an authorized budget for an event. The card administration system identifies the authorized budget for the provided event ID, and associates the budget with thecard 702. The balance of thecard 702 is updated to the amount of the budget. To help theevent coordinator 102 track the current use of thecard 702, the card administration system also associates the event with thecard 702. The process then advances to ablock 420, where theevent operator 105 uses thecard 702 to make purchases and conducts demonstration. The card administration system then deactivates thecard 702 at a later time, for example at the end of the last day of the demonstration event. In particular embodiments, eachevent operator 105 is instructed to contact the card administration system after completing his or her demonstration to deactivate thecard 702, by providing the card ID, PIN number, and an event ID for the event to be deactivated. The card administration system reduces the balance of thecard 702 to zero, thus preventing anevent operator 105 from using thecard 702 to make purchases for a deactivated event. The process then returns to theblock 402 to allow theevent operator 105 to activate thecard 702 for a subsequent demonstration. - In another embodiment, the
event coordinator 102 or theagency 104 providespre-activated cards 702 to theevent operators 105. Each of thecards 702 is already associated an authorized budget and optionally with an event ID. Theevent coordinator 102 or theagency 104 activates thecards 702 by contacting the card administration system using the process ofFIG. 4 , or by updating the card records in the card administration system using a system administrator's program. Therefore theevent operators 105 do not need to activate thecards 702. - In one embodiment, the card administration system is administered by the
event coordinator 102. Data on activatedcards 702, including the card ID, the PIN number, and the card balance are sent to thefund distribution service 108, which uses the data to authorize or rejectevent operator 105 purchases. -
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of the process of a card administration system activating acard 702. The card administration system stores records for events, including the respective event ID, authorized budget, and status for each event. The card administration system also stores records forcards 702, including the respective card ID, the PIN number, the status, the associated event ID, and the balance for each card. In one embodiment, a card record also includes an identifier of theagency 104 to which thecard 702 is assigned, or an identifier of theevent operator 105 to which thecard 702 is assigned. - The process starts from a
start block 500, and advances to ablock 502. At theblock 502, the card administration system receives a card ID provided by anevent operator 105. The process advances to adecision block 504, where the card administration system verifies that the provided card ID is valid. The card administration system verifies that the card ID is associated with an existingcard 702, and that thecard 702 is not blocked or already activated. If the card ID is not valid, the process returns to theblock 502 to prompt theevent operator 105 to re-enter the card ID. If the card ID is valid, then the process advances to ablock 506. - At the
block 506, the card administration system receives a PIN number from theevent operator 105. The process advances to adecision block 508, where the card administration system verifies that the provided PIN number is valid. The card administration system verifies that the PIN number is associated with thecard 702. If the PIN number is not valid, the process returns to theblock 506 to prompt theevent operator 105 to re-enter the PIN number. If the PIN number is valid, then the process advances to ablock 510. In one embodiment, acard 702 is not associated with a PIN number, and the actions of theblock 506 and theblock 508 are omitted. - At the
block 510, the card administration system receives an event ID from theevent operator 105. The process advances to adecision block 512, where the card administration system verifies that the provided event ID is valid. The card administration system verifies that the event ID is associated with an existing event that is still open. The card administration system maintains the events and the respective “open” or “closed” status for each event. If theevent coordinator 102 does not want to have demonstrations conducted for an event, theevent coordinator 102 directs the event status to be defined as “closed.” In one embodiment, the card administration system maintains a starting date and an ending date of each event. If the ending date for an event has expired, the event is automatically defined as a closed event, so thatevent operators 105 cannot usecards 702 for an event that has passed its scheduled ending date. An event having a starting date more than one day later than the current date is also defined as a closed event, so thatevent operators 105 can usecards 702 only for events scheduled to start on the current day or the next day, but cannot usecards 702 for events scheduled to start on a later future date. - If the event ID is not valid, the process returns from the
decision block 512 to theblock 510 to prompt theevent operator 105 to enter a valid event ID. If the event ID is valid, the process advances to ablock 514. At theblock 514, the card administration system associates the event ID with thecard 702. The process advances to ablock 516, where the card administration system associates the authorized budget of the event with thecard 702. The balance of thecard 702 is updated to be the amount of the authorized budget of the event. In another embodiment, the card administration system increases the balance of thecard 702 by the amount of the authorized budget of the event. The process then advances to anend block 518. - In one embodiment, each demonstration event is defined as an event starting and ending on a particular day. At the end of the day, the card administration system assigns an event status of “closed” to all events of the current day, and deactivates all
cards 702 associated with such events. The balance of a deactivatedcard 702 is reduced to zero. -
FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of thecard reading device 202 placed near thecash register 240 within theretail store 106. The configuration allows for theevent operator 105 to use thecard 702 by swiping or inserting it at thecard reading device 202. One embodiment of thecard reading device 202 is Master Card's Maestro card reading device. -
FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of acard 702. The top portion ofFIG. 7 illustrates the front of a debit card issued by “ABC BANK.” The bottom portion ofFIG. 7 illustrates the back of the debit card. Thecard 702 as shown inFIG. 7 includes acard number 704, anexpiration date 706, and acustomer name 708. Thecustomer name 708 is typically the name of theevent coordinator 102, but can also be the name of theagency 104 or the name of anevent operator 105. Thecard 702 also includes amagnetic strip 710, which stores card information such as thecard number 704. In another embodiment, thecard 702 does not include acustomer name 708. -
FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a card purchase authorization process. The process starts from ablock 802 and advances to ablock 804. At theblock 804, theevent operator 105 or aretail store 106 employee enters the total purchase amount for the items to be purchased into acard reading device 202. In one embodiment, theevent operator 105 or aretail store 106 employee scans the total purchase amount into thecard reading device 202. The process advances to ablock 806, where theevent operator 105 or theretail store 106 employee swipes or inserts thecard 702 at thecard reading device 202. In one embodiment, theevent operator 105 further enters a card PIN number into thecard reading device 202. The process advances to ablock 808, where thecard reading device 202 sends data through the point-of-sale network 212 to thefund distribution service 108. The sent data includes the total purchase amount, the card ID of thecard 702, and optionally other information, such as the identifications of the items to be purchased, the current date and time, and the identification of theretail store 106. In one embodiment, thecard reading device 202 sends data to a card administration system maintained by thefund distribution service 108, by theevent coordinator 102, or jointly by thefund distribution service 108 and theevent coordinator 102. In another embodiment, a card information database at thefund distribution service 108 is connected to a card administration system of theevent coordinator 102. When anevent operator 105 contacts the card administration system and activates acard 702, the card administration system updates the card balance in the card administration system, and notifies the fund distribution service's card information database to update the card balance. - The process advances from the
block 808 to adecision block 810, where a determination is made as to whether the requested purchase amount is greater than the card balance. If the purchase amount is greater than the card balance, the process advances to ablock 812, where the authorization request is rejected. The process then returns from theblock 812 to theblock 804, where theevent operator 105 or theretail store 106 employee can enter another purchase amount. If the purchase amount is less than or equal to the card balance, then the process advances from thedecision block 810 to ablock 814, where the purchase is authorized. Theevent operator 105 is thus allowed to purchase the items for conducting a demonstration event. The process advances to ablock 816, where the card balance is reduced by the purchase amount. In one embodiment in which the fund distribution service's card information database is connected to the event coordinator's card administration system, the fund distribution service reduces the card balance in the card information database, and notifies the card administration system to reduce the card balance in the card administration system. The process then advances to anend block 818. -
FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of a computer screen for maintaining event records in a card administration system. An event records table 902 inFIG. 9 displays event records stored in the card administration system. Each event record includes anevent ID 904 that identifies the event, anevent status 906 of “open” or “closed,” anevent starting date 908, anevent ending date 910, an authorizedbudget 912 of the event, anagency ID 914 identifying the agency (or agencies) responsible for the event, andcard numbers 916 identifying cards that are associated with the event. Event operator identifiers (not shown) can also be associated with an event record, to identifyevent operators 105 who are responsible for conducting the event. The event operator identifiers can be entered by theevent operators 105 when they contact the card administration system to activate thecards 702. - The event records are preferably maintained by the
event coordinator 102. Theevent coordinator 102 creates and updates the event records. Theevent coordinator 102 assigns an authorizedbudget 912 to each event. Theevent coordinator 102 also assigns one ormore agencies 104 identified by theagency ID field 914 to conduct the event. Theevent status 906 can be maintained by a system administrator of theevent coordinator 102, or maintained automatically depending on theevent starting date 908 and theevent ending date 910. For example, an event whoseevent ending date 910 has expired (i.e., is earlier than the current date) is assigned anevent status 906 of “closed.” An event whoseevent starting date 908 has not arrived (i.e., is much later than the current date) is also assigned anevent status 906 of “closed.” - The event records can be maintained in a spreadsheet, a flat file database, a relational database, an object-oriented database, or a combination of the above. An event record can be maintained in separate tables. For example, the
event ID 904 and the authorizedbudget 912 can be maintained in an event-budget table, and other event information shown in table 902 except the authorizedbudget 912 can be maintained in a separate table. For another example, instead of being stored in the event records table 902, thecard numbers 916 can be stored in a card records table 1002 (seeFIG. 10 ). As described below, the card administration system can use theevent ID 1014 in the card records table 1004 to identify the card IDs associated with each event. Theevent ID 1014 of a card record stores the event ID associated with thecard 702. Thecard numbers 916 are then displayed in the event records table 902. -
FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of a computer screen for maintaining card records in a card administration system. A card records table 1002 inFIG. 10 displays card records stored in the card administration system. Each card record includes acard ID 1004, aPIN number 1006, acard status 1008 of “activated,” “deactivated,” or “blocked,” abalance amount 1010, anagency ID 1012 identifying the agency to which thecard 702 is assigned, and anevent ID 1014 identifying the event associated with thecard 702. A card record can also include an event operator identifier (not shown) that identifies theevent operator 105 to whom thecard 702 is assigned. The event operator identifiers can be entered by theevent operators 105 when they contact the card administration system to activate thecards 702. - The
card ID 1004 of acard 702 is typically issued by thefund distribution service 108. Theevent coordinator 102 assignscards 702 toagencies 104, and updates theagency ID field 1012. Theevent coordinator 102 or thefund distribution service 108 can optionally update thePIN number 1006 of acard 702. In one embodiment, eachagency 104 is assigned one or more fixed PIN numbers, to help theagency 104 and itsevent operators 105 to remember the PIN numbers. Theevent ID 1014 identifies the event associated with thecard 702. Theevent ID 1014 is entered by anevent operator 105 during the card activation process ofFIG. 4 . Thebalance amount 1010 is zero for deactivated or blockedcards 702. Forcards 702 that have been activated but have not been used for purchases, thebalance amount 1010 is equal to the authorized budget of the associated event. Thebalance amount 1010 of an activatedcard 702 is then reduced by the amount of purchase made by theevent operator 105. - The card records can be maintained in a spreadsheet, a flat file database, a relational database, an object-oriented database, or a combination of the above. A card record can be maintained in separate tables. Other tables can also be used. For example, an agency records table (not shown) can be used to keep track of the
cards 702 and the events assigned to eachagency 104. The agency record table includes the agency ID, the card numbers for cards assigned to theagency 104, the event IDs for events assigned to the agency, and the PIN numbers assigned to theagency 104. - Additional information can also be displayed in computer-generated reports or computer screens. For example, for each
card 702, a report or screen can display the item identifiers for the items purchased using thecard 702. Other purchase information can also be displayed, for example the item names for the purchased items, the price and quantity of the purchase items, the date and time of the purchase, the recorded work starting time, the work ending time, and the identity or location of theretail store 106. Computer-generated reports or computer screens can be used for many purposes, such as tracking the progress of acard 702, tracking the progress of an event, tracking the progress of anagency 104, and the like. - This invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the essential characteristics as described herein. The embodiments described above are to be considered in all respects as illustrative only and not restrictive in any manner. The scope of the invention is indicated by the following claims rather than by the foregoing description.
Claims (14)
1. A system for coordinating product or service demonstrations, comprising:
a computer readable medium comprising a plurality of purchase card records, the purchase card records comprising (a) identification of a purchase card holder, (b) identification of a purchase card status, and (c) identification of one or more promotional events;
a first module in communication with the computer readable medium, the first module configured to update the purchase card records to associate a particular purchase card with one or more scheduled promotional events; and
a second module in communication with the computer readable medium, the second module configured (1) to receive point-of-sale purchase data over a network, (2) to identify a purchase card within the purchase card records that was used to generate the point-of-sale purchase data, and (3) to update the purchase card records to associate the received purchase data with the purchase cards used to generate the purchase data.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the purchase card records further comprise a purchase card personal identification number.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the purchase card records further comprise a purchase card balance amount.
4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the purchase card records further comprise identification of an agency associated with the card holder.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the point-of-sale purchase data comprises information on the day and time on which a purchase was made.
6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the point-of-sale purchase data comprises information on the retail location at which a purchase was made.
7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the point-of-sale purchase data comprises information on the goods or services purchased.
8. A computer-implemented method for coordinating promotional events, comprising:
creating purchase card records for a plurality of purchase cards in a computer readable medium, the purchase card records comprising (a) a card holder identifier, (b) a purchase card status identifier, and (c) identifiers for one or more scheduled promotional events;
receiving identities of a first plurality of purchase cards enrolled to be used in connection with a first promotional event;
receiving identities of a second plurality of purchase cards to be used in connection with a second promotional event;
updating the purchase card records to associate each of the purchase cards of the first plurality with the first promotional event, and to further associate each of the purchase cards of the second plurality with the second promotional event;
receiving information over a network generated through use of the first plurality of purchase cards and second plurality of purchase cards in card-readers; and
updating the purchase card records by storing the portions of the received information generated by use of particular purchase cards in association with those particular purchase cards.
9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the information received over a network comprises point-of-sale purchase data.
10. The method of claim 8 , wherein the point-of-sale purchase data comprises information on the date and time for which a purchase is made.
11. The method of claim 8 , wherein the point-of-sale purchase data comprises information on the location at which a purchase is made.
12. The method of claim 8 , wherein the point-of-sale purchase data comprises information on goods and services purchased.
13. A computer system programmed to perform the method of claim 8 .
14. A computer-readable medium having stored thereon executable computer code that embodies the method of claim 8 .
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/260,058 US20090083156A1 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2008-10-28 | Systems and methods for facilitating the staffing of promotional events |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US26904701P | 2001-02-15 | 2001-02-15 | |
US30580501P | 2001-07-16 | 2001-07-16 | |
US33634001P | 2001-10-18 | 2001-10-18 | |
US10/013,826 US7444305B2 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2001-12-07 | Methods of coordinating products and service demonstrations |
US12/260,058 US20090083156A1 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2008-10-28 | Systems and methods for facilitating the staffing of promotional events |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/013,826 Continuation US7444305B2 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2001-12-07 | Methods of coordinating products and service demonstrations |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090083156A1 true US20090083156A1 (en) | 2009-03-26 |
Family
ID=29716241
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/013,826 Expired - Fee Related US7444305B2 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2001-12-07 | Methods of coordinating products and service demonstrations |
US12/260,058 Abandoned US20090083156A1 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2008-10-28 | Systems and methods for facilitating the staffing of promotional events |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/013,826 Expired - Fee Related US7444305B2 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2001-12-07 | Methods of coordinating products and service demonstrations |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US7444305B2 (en) |
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050192883A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2005-09-01 | Sandra Cotten | Promotional event tracking system |
US20060047551A1 (en) * | 2004-08-26 | 2006-03-02 | Sandra Cotten | System and method for staffing promotional events with qualified event personnel |
US20070239614A1 (en) * | 2002-07-10 | 2007-10-11 | Union Beach, L.P. | System and method for the storage of data in association with financial accounts |
US20090234766A1 (en) * | 2002-07-09 | 2009-09-17 | Tannenbaum Mary C | Administration of Financial Accounts |
US20120117223A1 (en) * | 2010-11-05 | 2012-05-10 | International Business Machines Corporation | Changing an event identifier of a transient event in an event notification system |
US20190156004A1 (en) * | 2017-11-21 | 2019-05-23 | Bank Of America Corporation | Dynamic Device Activation Control |
WO2023137150A1 (en) * | 2022-01-14 | 2023-07-20 | Artistic Eating Inc. | Saas platform, mobile application, and interface for management between coordinator, vendors, and attendees |
Families Citing this family (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7925531B1 (en) | 1995-11-13 | 2011-04-12 | TrialCard Incorporated | Method of delivering goods and services via media |
US7444305B2 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2008-10-28 | Mass Connections, Inc. | Methods of coordinating products and service demonstrations |
US7494055B2 (en) * | 2002-09-17 | 2009-02-24 | Vivotech, Inc. | Collaborative negotiation techniques for mobile personal trusted device financial transactions |
US20050222904A1 (en) * | 2004-03-31 | 2005-10-06 | Sandra Cotten | Prepaid monetary card for incentivizing return customers |
EP2556596B1 (en) | 2010-04-05 | 2018-05-23 | Mastercard International Incorporated | Systems, methods, and computer readable media for performing multiple transactions through a single near field communication (nfc) tap |
US8799087B2 (en) | 2010-10-27 | 2014-08-05 | Mastercard International Incorporated | Systems, methods, and computer readable media for utilizing one or more preferred application lists in a wireless device reader |
Citations (63)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US550359A (en) * | 1895-11-26 | Exhaust-pump | ||
US4654793A (en) * | 1984-10-15 | 1987-03-31 | Showdata, Inc. | System and method for registering and keeping track of the activities of attendees at a trade show, convention or the like |
US4723212A (en) * | 1984-07-18 | 1988-02-02 | Catalina Marketing Corp. | Method and apparatus for dispensing discount coupons |
US5025372A (en) * | 1987-09-17 | 1991-06-18 | Meridian Enterprises, Inc. | System and method for administration of incentive award program through use of credit |
US5056019A (en) * | 1989-08-29 | 1991-10-08 | Citicorp Pos Information Servies, Inc. | Automated purchase reward accounting system and method |
US5117353A (en) * | 1989-05-05 | 1992-05-26 | Staff-Plus, Inc. | System for use in a temporary help business |
US5255183A (en) * | 1990-05-29 | 1993-10-19 | Interactive Voice Data System Inc. | Telephone-based personnel tracking system |
US5255182A (en) * | 1992-01-31 | 1993-10-19 | Visa International Service Association | Payment card point-of-sale service quality monitoring system, apparatus, and method |
US5397881A (en) * | 1993-11-22 | 1995-03-14 | Mannik; Kallis H. | Third millenium credit card with magnetically onto it written multiple validity dates, from which is one single day as the credit card's validity day selected day after day by the legitimate card owner |
US5500513A (en) * | 1994-05-11 | 1996-03-19 | Visa International | Automated purchasing control system |
US5508977A (en) * | 1994-06-16 | 1996-04-16 | Simplex Time Recorder Company | Service technician time recorder |
US5592376A (en) * | 1994-06-17 | 1997-01-07 | Commonweal Incorporated | Currency and barter exchange debit card and system |
US5646839A (en) * | 1990-05-29 | 1997-07-08 | Mcic Communications Corporation | Telephone-based personnel tracking system |
US5649118A (en) * | 1993-08-27 | 1997-07-15 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Smart card with multiple charge accounts and product item tables designating the account to debit |
US5649114A (en) * | 1989-05-01 | 1997-07-15 | Credit Verification Corporation | Method and system for selective incentive point-of-sale marketing in response to customer shopping histories |
US5717867A (en) * | 1993-06-21 | 1998-02-10 | Mirage Resorts, Incorporated | Employee time entry and accounting system |
US5748908A (en) * | 1995-06-07 | 1998-05-05 | Yu; Mason K. | Automated, classified expenditure data card recording system |
US5749075A (en) * | 1995-06-06 | 1998-05-05 | Interactive Media Works, L.L.C. | Method for providing prepaid internet access and/or long distance calling including the distribution of specialized calling cards |
US5798508A (en) * | 1996-12-09 | 1998-08-25 | Walker Asset Management, L.P. | Postpaid traveler's checks |
US5893080A (en) * | 1995-07-25 | 1999-04-06 | Bottomline Technologies, Inc. | Disbursement system and method |
US5903633A (en) * | 1995-03-27 | 1999-05-11 | Smarttalk Teleservices, Inc. | Method and apparatus for prepaid phone card activation and billing |
US5978768A (en) * | 1997-05-08 | 1999-11-02 | Mcgovern; Robert J. | Computerized job search system and method for posting and searching job openings via a computer network |
US5995965A (en) * | 1996-11-18 | 1999-11-30 | Humetrix, Inc. | System and method for remotely accessing user data records |
US6032134A (en) * | 1998-11-18 | 2000-02-29 | Weissman; Steven I. | Credit card billing system for identifying expenditures on a credit card account |
US6038547A (en) * | 1998-01-07 | 2000-03-14 | Casto; Robin L. | Construction tracking and payment method and system |
US6049776A (en) * | 1997-09-06 | 2000-04-11 | Unisys Corporation | Human resource management system for staffing projects |
US6052675A (en) * | 1998-04-21 | 2000-04-18 | At&T Corp. | Method and apparatus for preauthorizing credit card type transactions |
US6078891A (en) * | 1997-11-24 | 2000-06-20 | Riordan; John | Method and system for collecting and processing marketing data |
US6185545B1 (en) * | 1998-11-17 | 2001-02-06 | Prenet Corporation | Electronic payment system utilizing intermediary account |
US20010001856A1 (en) * | 1999-10-28 | 2001-05-24 | Gould David B. | Prepaid cash equivalent card and system |
US6272467B1 (en) * | 1996-09-09 | 2001-08-07 | Spark Network Services, Inc. | System for data collection and matching compatible profiles |
US6289340B1 (en) * | 1999-08-03 | 2001-09-11 | Ixmatch, Inc. | Consultant matching system and method for selecting candidates from a candidate pool by adjusting skill values |
US20010034630A1 (en) * | 2000-04-21 | 2001-10-25 | Robert Half International, Inc. | Interactive employment system and method |
US6325292B1 (en) * | 1997-05-06 | 2001-12-04 | Richard P. Sehr | Card system and methods utilizing collector cards |
US6334133B1 (en) * | 1998-12-21 | 2001-12-25 | Frontline Data, Inc. | System and method for performing substitute fulfillment |
US20020046341A1 (en) * | 2000-02-28 | 2002-04-18 | Alex Kazaks | System, and method for prepaid anonymous and pseudonymous credit card type transactions |
US20020072946A1 (en) * | 1999-12-13 | 2002-06-13 | Richardson Mary L. | Method and system for employment placement |
US20020082925A1 (en) * | 2000-12-27 | 2002-06-27 | Herwig Nathaniel C. | Method and apparatus for utilizing a smart card to maintain a retail application on a number of portable, wireless hand-held computing devices |
US6422463B1 (en) * | 1999-12-31 | 2002-07-23 | Jonathan C. Flink | Access control system |
US20020156725A1 (en) * | 2001-04-23 | 2002-10-24 | Harara Marwan Ahmed | Method and means for conducting cashless financial transactions |
US20020169747A1 (en) * | 2001-05-10 | 2002-11-14 | Chapman Thomas F. | Systems and methods for notifying a consumer of changes made to a credit report |
US20020169720A1 (en) * | 2001-05-12 | 2002-11-14 | Wilson Phillip C. | Method for cardholder to place use restrictions on credit card at will |
US6502745B1 (en) * | 1994-06-06 | 2003-01-07 | Call Processing, Inc. | Pre-paid card system and method |
US20030046249A1 (en) * | 2001-08-31 | 2003-03-06 | Robert Wu | Prepaid card terminal and method for implementing prepaid cards |
US20030050043A1 (en) * | 2001-09-13 | 2003-03-13 | Seamless Distribution Ab | Method and system for refilling mobile telephone prepaid phone cards via electronic distribution of refill codes |
US20030055755A1 (en) * | 2001-09-14 | 2003-03-20 | James Shuder | Timecard processing in a procurement management system |
US20030061163A1 (en) * | 2001-09-27 | 2003-03-27 | Durfield Richard C. | Method and apparatus for verification/authorization by credit or debit card owner of use of card concurrently with merchant transaction |
US20030074287A1 (en) * | 2001-10-17 | 2003-04-17 | James Shuder | Method and system for processing timecard related information in a purchase order procurement system |
US6567784B2 (en) * | 1999-06-03 | 2003-05-20 | Ework Exchange, Inc. | Method and apparatus for matching projects and workers |
US20030229583A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2003-12-11 | Sandra Cotten | Methods of coordinating products and service demonstrations |
US6735570B1 (en) * | 1999-08-02 | 2004-05-11 | Unisys Corporation | System and method for evaluating a selectable group of people against a selectable set of skills |
US6751650B1 (en) * | 2000-01-31 | 2004-06-15 | Journyx, Inc. | Method and apparatus for monitoring contractor performance |
US20040139318A1 (en) * | 2002-11-06 | 2004-07-15 | Digital Interactive Entertainment, Llc | Activation and personalization of downloadable content |
US20040204948A1 (en) * | 2003-04-09 | 2004-10-14 | Carol Singletary | Internet service for the travel medical professional staffing industry |
US20040205023A1 (en) * | 2003-04-08 | 2004-10-14 | First Data Corporation | Money transfer convenience card, systems and methods |
US6829596B1 (en) * | 2000-05-23 | 2004-12-07 | Steve Frazee | Account/asset activation device and method |
US20050192883A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2005-09-01 | Sandra Cotten | Promotional event tracking system |
US20050209014A1 (en) * | 2004-03-18 | 2005-09-22 | Kim Ki Y | Portable golf practicing apparatus |
US20050222904A1 (en) * | 2004-03-31 | 2005-10-06 | Sandra Cotten | Prepaid monetary card for incentivizing return customers |
US20060010023A1 (en) * | 2000-10-02 | 2006-01-12 | On Vantage, Inc. | System, method and computer program product for managing meeting planning operations |
US20060047551A1 (en) * | 2004-08-26 | 2006-03-02 | Sandra Cotten | System and method for staffing promotional events with qualified event personnel |
US7024395B1 (en) * | 2000-06-16 | 2006-04-04 | Storage Technology Corporation | Method and system for secure credit card transactions |
US7043443B1 (en) * | 2000-03-31 | 2006-05-09 | Firestone Lisa M | Method and system for matching potential employees and potential employers over a network |
Family Cites Families (74)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1111580A (en) * | 1914-02-09 | 1914-09-22 | Samuel M Herber | Oil distillation. |
NL267291A (en) * | 1959-05-14 | 1900-01-01 | ||
NL264945A (en) * | 1960-05-23 | |||
US3080435A (en) * | 1960-07-18 | 1963-03-05 | Shell Oil Co | Dehydrogenation process |
NL285285A (en) * | 1961-11-10 | |||
US3553279A (en) * | 1968-03-29 | 1971-01-05 | Texas Instruments Inc | Method of producing ethylene |
US3558474A (en) * | 1968-09-30 | 1971-01-26 | Universal Oil Prod Co | Slurry process for hydrorefining petroleum crude oil |
US3679577A (en) * | 1968-11-29 | 1972-07-25 | Shell Oil Co | Molten salt hydrofining process |
BE758565A (en) * | 1969-11-18 | 1971-05-06 | Shell Int Research | PROCEDURE FOR THE CATALYTIC HYDROGENATING CONVERSION OF A RESIDUAL CARBON HYDROGEN OIL |
US3716478A (en) * | 1970-02-10 | 1973-02-13 | Agency Ind Science Techn | Hydrogenation treatment of hydrocarbon oil |
US3745109A (en) * | 1970-10-01 | 1973-07-10 | North American Rockwell | Hydrocarbon conversion process |
US3766054A (en) * | 1970-12-23 | 1973-10-16 | Mobil Oil Corp | Demetalation of hydrocarbon charge stocks |
US3716479A (en) * | 1970-12-23 | 1973-02-13 | Mobil Oil Corp | Demetalation of hydrocarbon charge stocks |
US3677932A (en) * | 1971-03-12 | 1972-07-18 | Shell Oil Co | Molten salt hydroconversion process |
US3812028A (en) * | 1971-05-18 | 1974-05-21 | Standard Oil Co | Hydrotreatment of fossil fuels |
US3871636A (en) * | 1971-08-03 | 1975-03-18 | Mccord Corp | Energy absorbing device |
US3786138A (en) * | 1971-08-16 | 1974-01-15 | Atlantic Richfield Co | Hydrogen generation |
US3932635A (en) * | 1972-04-24 | 1976-01-13 | Syntex Corporation | Novel cyclic progestogen-interrupted estrogen oral contraceptive regimens |
US3901792A (en) * | 1972-05-22 | 1975-08-26 | Hydrocarbon Research Inc | Multi-zone method for demetallizing and desulfurizing crude oil or atmospheric residual oil |
JPS5139645B2 (en) * | 1972-12-30 | 1976-10-29 | ||
US3876532A (en) * | 1973-02-27 | 1975-04-08 | Gulf Research Development Co | Method for reducing the total acid number of a middle distillate oil |
US3948759A (en) * | 1973-03-28 | 1976-04-06 | Exxon Research And Engineering Company | Visbreaking a heavy hydrocarbon feedstock in a regenerable molten medium in the presence of hydrogen |
US3887455A (en) * | 1974-03-25 | 1975-06-03 | Exxon Research Engineering Co | Ebullating bed process for hydrotreatment of heavy crudes and residua |
US3960708A (en) * | 1974-05-31 | 1976-06-01 | Standard Oil Company | Process for upgrading a hydrocarbon fraction |
US3960706A (en) * | 1974-05-31 | 1976-06-01 | Standard Oil Company | Process for upgrading a hydrocarbon fraction |
US4051015A (en) * | 1976-06-11 | 1977-09-27 | Exxon Research & Engineering Co. | Hydroconversion of heavy hydrocarbons using copper chloride catalyst |
US4115324A (en) * | 1977-06-10 | 1978-09-19 | Nippon Mining Co., Ltd | Catalyst for treating heavy oils |
US4271042A (en) * | 1977-12-20 | 1981-06-02 | Mobil Oil Corporation | Process for demetalation and desulfurization of petroleum oils |
JPS55102684A (en) * | 1979-01-06 | 1980-08-06 | Mitsui Eng & Shipbuild Co Ltd | Thermal cracking of hydrocarbon and its device |
JPS55104920A (en) * | 1979-01-30 | 1980-08-11 | Nippon Mining Co Ltd | Manufacture of lightened oil and hydrogen from heavy oil |
US4591426A (en) * | 1981-10-08 | 1986-05-27 | Intevep, S.A. | Process for hydroconversion and upgrading of heavy crudes of high metal and asphaltene content |
US4389301A (en) * | 1981-10-22 | 1983-06-21 | Chevron Research Company | Two-step hydroprocessing of heavy hydrocarbonaceous oils |
US4376037A (en) * | 1981-10-16 | 1983-03-08 | Chevron Research Company | Hydroprocessing of heavy hydrocarbonaceous oils |
US4427535A (en) * | 1981-11-02 | 1984-01-24 | Hydrocarbon Research, Inc. | Selective operating conditions for high conversion of special petroleum feedstocks |
US4437980A (en) * | 1982-07-30 | 1984-03-20 | Rockwell International Corporation | Molten salt hydrotreatment process |
US4460707A (en) * | 1982-12-28 | 1984-07-17 | Union Oil Company Of California | Hydroprocessing catalyst and method for preparing it |
US4498979A (en) * | 1983-09-12 | 1985-02-12 | Exxon Research & Engineering Co. | Hydrodesulfurization process with conversion of heavy hydrocarbons utilizing a catalyst containing a group IIA metal component |
US4564439A (en) * | 1984-06-29 | 1986-01-14 | Chevron Research Company | Two-stage, close-coupled thermal catalytic hydroconversion process |
US4659454A (en) * | 1984-12-21 | 1987-04-21 | Mobil Oil Corporation | Hydrocracking of heavy feeds plus light fractions with dispersed dual function catalyst |
US4665261A (en) * | 1985-06-21 | 1987-05-12 | Atlantic Richfield Company | Hydrocarbon conversion process using a molten salt |
US5108581A (en) * | 1985-09-09 | 1992-04-28 | Exxon Research And Engineering Company | Hydroconversion of heavy feeds by use of both supported and unsupported catalysts |
US4661265A (en) * | 1985-09-30 | 1987-04-28 | Amoco Corporation | Catalyst deoiling process |
DE3623430A1 (en) * | 1986-07-11 | 1988-01-28 | Veba Oel Entwicklungs Gmbh | METHOD FOR HYDROGENATING TREATMENT WITH CHLORBIPHENYLENE AND THE LIKE CONTAMINATED MINERAL OILS |
US4917789A (en) * | 1987-02-03 | 1990-04-17 | Fina Technology, Inc. | Catalytic dewaxing process |
DE3710021A1 (en) * | 1987-03-30 | 1988-10-20 | Veba Oel Entwicklungs Gmbh | METHOD FOR HYDROGENATING CONVERSION OF HEAVY AND RESIDUAL OILS |
US4937218A (en) * | 1988-09-06 | 1990-06-26 | Intevep, S.A. | Catalytic system for the hydroconversion of heavy oils |
US4937221A (en) * | 1989-06-09 | 1990-06-26 | Institute Of Gas Technology | Mixed-solid solution tri-metallic oxide/sulfide catalyst and process for its preparation |
US5124024A (en) * | 1989-11-20 | 1992-06-23 | Nova Husky Research Corporation | Method for extending hydroconversion catalyst life |
US5039489A (en) * | 1990-04-17 | 1991-08-13 | Gleaves John T | Apparatus for catalyst analysis |
US5171727A (en) * | 1991-08-26 | 1992-12-15 | Uop | Method of preparing a catalyst for the hydroconversion of asphaltene-containing hydrocarbonaceous charge stocks |
US5320741A (en) * | 1992-04-09 | 1994-06-14 | Stone & Webster Engineering Corporation | Combination process for the pretreatment and hydroconversion of heavy residual oils |
US5223472A (en) * | 1992-04-14 | 1993-06-29 | Union Oil Company Of California | Demetallation catalyst |
US5462651A (en) * | 1994-08-09 | 1995-10-31 | Texaco Inc. | Hydrodearomatization of hydrocarbon oils using novel "phosphorus treated carbon" supported metal sulfide catalysts |
JP3668262B2 (en) * | 1994-06-28 | 2005-07-06 | 株式会社浅井ゲルマニウム研究所 | Method for separating and recovering organic germanium compounds |
US5620592A (en) * | 1994-07-29 | 1997-04-15 | Chevron U.S.A. Inc. | Low macropore resid conversion catalyst |
NO303837B1 (en) * | 1994-08-29 | 1998-09-07 | Norske Stats Oljeselskap | Process for removing substantially naphthenic acids from a hydrocarbon oil |
US5550359A (en) * | 1994-09-14 | 1996-08-27 | Mikohn Gaming Corporation | Time and attendance system and method therefor |
US5885441A (en) * | 1997-04-11 | 1999-03-23 | Intevep, S.A. | Steam conversion process and catalyst |
US6210564B1 (en) * | 1996-06-04 | 2001-04-03 | Exxon Research And Engineering Company | Process for desulfurization of petroleum feeds utilizing sodium metal |
FR2764213B1 (en) * | 1997-06-10 | 1999-07-16 | Inst Francais Du Petrole | HYDROCARBON CHARGE HYDROTREATMENT CATALYST IN A FIXED BED REACTOR |
US6582590B1 (en) * | 1997-07-15 | 2003-06-24 | Exxonmobil Research And Engineering Company | Multistage hydroprocessing using bulk multimetallic catalyst |
US6620313B1 (en) * | 1997-07-15 | 2003-09-16 | Exxonmobil Research And Engineering Company | Hydroconversion process using bulk group VIII/Group VIB catalysts |
US5928502A (en) * | 1997-08-29 | 1999-07-27 | Exxon Research And Engineering Co. | Process for reducing total acid number of crude oil |
US5871636A (en) * | 1997-08-29 | 1999-02-16 | Exxon Research And Engineering Company | Catalytic reduction of acidity of crude oils in the absence of hydrogen |
US5897769A (en) * | 1997-08-29 | 1999-04-27 | Exxon Research And Engineering Co. | Process for selectively removing lower molecular weight naphthenic acids from acidic crudes |
US5914030A (en) * | 1997-08-29 | 1999-06-22 | Exxon Research And Engineering. Co. | Process for reducing total acid number of crude oil |
US5928501A (en) * | 1998-02-03 | 1999-07-27 | Texaco Inc. | Process for upgrading a hydrocarbon oil |
US6096192A (en) * | 1998-07-14 | 2000-08-01 | Exxon Research And Engineering Co. | Producing pipelinable bitumen |
US6218333B1 (en) * | 1999-02-15 | 2001-04-17 | Shell Oil Company | Preparation of a hydrotreating catalyst |
US6509291B2 (en) * | 2000-04-11 | 2003-01-21 | Akzo Nobel N.V. | Process for sulfiding a catalyst containing an S-containing additive |
US6524469B1 (en) * | 2000-05-16 | 2003-02-25 | Trans Ionics Corporation | Heavy oil upgrading process |
US6203313B1 (en) * | 2000-06-09 | 2001-03-20 | Rebbecca L. Holmes | Candle having reconfigurable shape |
US6454932B1 (en) * | 2000-08-15 | 2002-09-24 | Abb Lummus Global Inc. | Multiple stage ebullating bed hydrocracking with interstage stripping and separating |
US6547957B1 (en) * | 2000-10-17 | 2003-04-15 | Texaco, Inc. | Process for upgrading a hydrocarbon oil |
-
2001
- 2001-12-07 US US10/013,826 patent/US7444305B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2008
- 2008-10-28 US US12/260,058 patent/US20090083156A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (65)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US550359A (en) * | 1895-11-26 | Exhaust-pump | ||
US4723212A (en) * | 1984-07-18 | 1988-02-02 | Catalina Marketing Corp. | Method and apparatus for dispensing discount coupons |
US4654793A (en) * | 1984-10-15 | 1987-03-31 | Showdata, Inc. | System and method for registering and keeping track of the activities of attendees at a trade show, convention or the like |
US5025372A (en) * | 1987-09-17 | 1991-06-18 | Meridian Enterprises, Inc. | System and method for administration of incentive award program through use of credit |
US5649114A (en) * | 1989-05-01 | 1997-07-15 | Credit Verification Corporation | Method and system for selective incentive point-of-sale marketing in response to customer shopping histories |
US5117353A (en) * | 1989-05-05 | 1992-05-26 | Staff-Plus, Inc. | System for use in a temporary help business |
US5056019A (en) * | 1989-08-29 | 1991-10-08 | Citicorp Pos Information Servies, Inc. | Automated purchase reward accounting system and method |
US5646839A (en) * | 1990-05-29 | 1997-07-08 | Mcic Communications Corporation | Telephone-based personnel tracking system |
US5255183A (en) * | 1990-05-29 | 1993-10-19 | Interactive Voice Data System Inc. | Telephone-based personnel tracking system |
US5255182A (en) * | 1992-01-31 | 1993-10-19 | Visa International Service Association | Payment card point-of-sale service quality monitoring system, apparatus, and method |
US5717867A (en) * | 1993-06-21 | 1998-02-10 | Mirage Resorts, Incorporated | Employee time entry and accounting system |
US5649118A (en) * | 1993-08-27 | 1997-07-15 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Smart card with multiple charge accounts and product item tables designating the account to debit |
US5397881A (en) * | 1993-11-22 | 1995-03-14 | Mannik; Kallis H. | Third millenium credit card with magnetically onto it written multiple validity dates, from which is one single day as the credit card's validity day selected day after day by the legitimate card owner |
US5500513A (en) * | 1994-05-11 | 1996-03-19 | Visa International | Automated purchasing control system |
US6502745B1 (en) * | 1994-06-06 | 2003-01-07 | Call Processing, Inc. | Pre-paid card system and method |
US5508977A (en) * | 1994-06-16 | 1996-04-16 | Simplex Time Recorder Company | Service technician time recorder |
US5592376A (en) * | 1994-06-17 | 1997-01-07 | Commonweal Incorporated | Currency and barter exchange debit card and system |
US5687323A (en) * | 1994-06-17 | 1997-11-11 | Commonweal Incorporated | Dual currency debit card |
US5903633A (en) * | 1995-03-27 | 1999-05-11 | Smarttalk Teleservices, Inc. | Method and apparatus for prepaid phone card activation and billing |
US5749075A (en) * | 1995-06-06 | 1998-05-05 | Interactive Media Works, L.L.C. | Method for providing prepaid internet access and/or long distance calling including the distribution of specialized calling cards |
US5748908A (en) * | 1995-06-07 | 1998-05-05 | Yu; Mason K. | Automated, classified expenditure data card recording system |
US5893080A (en) * | 1995-07-25 | 1999-04-06 | Bottomline Technologies, Inc. | Disbursement system and method |
US6272467B1 (en) * | 1996-09-09 | 2001-08-07 | Spark Network Services, Inc. | System for data collection and matching compatible profiles |
US5995965A (en) * | 1996-11-18 | 1999-11-30 | Humetrix, Inc. | System and method for remotely accessing user data records |
US5798508A (en) * | 1996-12-09 | 1998-08-25 | Walker Asset Management, L.P. | Postpaid traveler's checks |
US6325292B1 (en) * | 1997-05-06 | 2001-12-04 | Richard P. Sehr | Card system and methods utilizing collector cards |
US5978768A (en) * | 1997-05-08 | 1999-11-02 | Mcgovern; Robert J. | Computerized job search system and method for posting and searching job openings via a computer network |
US6049776A (en) * | 1997-09-06 | 2000-04-11 | Unisys Corporation | Human resource management system for staffing projects |
US6078891A (en) * | 1997-11-24 | 2000-06-20 | Riordan; John | Method and system for collecting and processing marketing data |
US6038547A (en) * | 1998-01-07 | 2000-03-14 | Casto; Robin L. | Construction tracking and payment method and system |
US6052675A (en) * | 1998-04-21 | 2000-04-18 | At&T Corp. | Method and apparatus for preauthorizing credit card type transactions |
US6185545B1 (en) * | 1998-11-17 | 2001-02-06 | Prenet Corporation | Electronic payment system utilizing intermediary account |
US6032134A (en) * | 1998-11-18 | 2000-02-29 | Weissman; Steven I. | Credit card billing system for identifying expenditures on a credit card account |
US6334133B1 (en) * | 1998-12-21 | 2001-12-25 | Frontline Data, Inc. | System and method for performing substitute fulfillment |
US6567784B2 (en) * | 1999-06-03 | 2003-05-20 | Ework Exchange, Inc. | Method and apparatus for matching projects and workers |
US6735570B1 (en) * | 1999-08-02 | 2004-05-11 | Unisys Corporation | System and method for evaluating a selectable group of people against a selectable set of skills |
US6289340B1 (en) * | 1999-08-03 | 2001-09-11 | Ixmatch, Inc. | Consultant matching system and method for selecting candidates from a candidate pool by adjusting skill values |
US20010001856A1 (en) * | 1999-10-28 | 2001-05-24 | Gould David B. | Prepaid cash equivalent card and system |
US20020072946A1 (en) * | 1999-12-13 | 2002-06-13 | Richardson Mary L. | Method and system for employment placement |
US6422463B1 (en) * | 1999-12-31 | 2002-07-23 | Jonathan C. Flink | Access control system |
US6751650B1 (en) * | 2000-01-31 | 2004-06-15 | Journyx, Inc. | Method and apparatus for monitoring contractor performance |
US20020046341A1 (en) * | 2000-02-28 | 2002-04-18 | Alex Kazaks | System, and method for prepaid anonymous and pseudonymous credit card type transactions |
US7043443B1 (en) * | 2000-03-31 | 2006-05-09 | Firestone Lisa M | Method and system for matching potential employees and potential employers over a network |
US20010034630A1 (en) * | 2000-04-21 | 2001-10-25 | Robert Half International, Inc. | Interactive employment system and method |
US6829596B1 (en) * | 2000-05-23 | 2004-12-07 | Steve Frazee | Account/asset activation device and method |
US7024395B1 (en) * | 2000-06-16 | 2006-04-04 | Storage Technology Corporation | Method and system for secure credit card transactions |
US20060010023A1 (en) * | 2000-10-02 | 2006-01-12 | On Vantage, Inc. | System, method and computer program product for managing meeting planning operations |
US20020082925A1 (en) * | 2000-12-27 | 2002-06-27 | Herwig Nathaniel C. | Method and apparatus for utilizing a smart card to maintain a retail application on a number of portable, wireless hand-held computing devices |
US7444305B2 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2008-10-28 | Mass Connections, Inc. | Methods of coordinating products and service demonstrations |
US20030229583A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2003-12-11 | Sandra Cotten | Methods of coordinating products and service demonstrations |
US20050192883A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2005-09-01 | Sandra Cotten | Promotional event tracking system |
US20020156725A1 (en) * | 2001-04-23 | 2002-10-24 | Harara Marwan Ahmed | Method and means for conducting cashless financial transactions |
US20020169747A1 (en) * | 2001-05-10 | 2002-11-14 | Chapman Thomas F. | Systems and methods for notifying a consumer of changes made to a credit report |
US20020169720A1 (en) * | 2001-05-12 | 2002-11-14 | Wilson Phillip C. | Method for cardholder to place use restrictions on credit card at will |
US20030046249A1 (en) * | 2001-08-31 | 2003-03-06 | Robert Wu | Prepaid card terminal and method for implementing prepaid cards |
US20030050043A1 (en) * | 2001-09-13 | 2003-03-13 | Seamless Distribution Ab | Method and system for refilling mobile telephone prepaid phone cards via electronic distribution of refill codes |
US20030055755A1 (en) * | 2001-09-14 | 2003-03-20 | James Shuder | Timecard processing in a procurement management system |
US20030061163A1 (en) * | 2001-09-27 | 2003-03-27 | Durfield Richard C. | Method and apparatus for verification/authorization by credit or debit card owner of use of card concurrently with merchant transaction |
US20030074287A1 (en) * | 2001-10-17 | 2003-04-17 | James Shuder | Method and system for processing timecard related information in a purchase order procurement system |
US20040139318A1 (en) * | 2002-11-06 | 2004-07-15 | Digital Interactive Entertainment, Llc | Activation and personalization of downloadable content |
US20040205023A1 (en) * | 2003-04-08 | 2004-10-14 | First Data Corporation | Money transfer convenience card, systems and methods |
US20040204948A1 (en) * | 2003-04-09 | 2004-10-14 | Carol Singletary | Internet service for the travel medical professional staffing industry |
US20050209014A1 (en) * | 2004-03-18 | 2005-09-22 | Kim Ki Y | Portable golf practicing apparatus |
US20050222904A1 (en) * | 2004-03-31 | 2005-10-06 | Sandra Cotten | Prepaid monetary card for incentivizing return customers |
US20060047551A1 (en) * | 2004-08-26 | 2006-03-02 | Sandra Cotten | System and method for staffing promotional events with qualified event personnel |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050192883A1 (en) * | 2001-02-15 | 2005-09-01 | Sandra Cotten | Promotional event tracking system |
US7797191B2 (en) | 2001-02-15 | 2010-09-14 | Mass Connections, Inc. | Promotional event tracking system |
US20090234766A1 (en) * | 2002-07-09 | 2009-09-17 | Tannenbaum Mary C | Administration of Financial Accounts |
US8083137B2 (en) | 2002-07-09 | 2011-12-27 | Niaco Data Mgmt. Ii, Llc | Administration of financial accounts |
US20070239614A1 (en) * | 2002-07-10 | 2007-10-11 | Union Beach, L.P. | System and method for the storage of data in association with financial accounts |
US20060047551A1 (en) * | 2004-08-26 | 2006-03-02 | Sandra Cotten | System and method for staffing promotional events with qualified event personnel |
US20120117223A1 (en) * | 2010-11-05 | 2012-05-10 | International Business Machines Corporation | Changing an event identifier of a transient event in an event notification system |
US8984119B2 (en) * | 2010-11-05 | 2015-03-17 | International Business Machines Corporation | Changing an event identifier of a transient event in an event notification system |
US20190156004A1 (en) * | 2017-11-21 | 2019-05-23 | Bank Of America Corporation | Dynamic Device Activation Control |
US10789340B2 (en) * | 2017-11-21 | 2020-09-29 | Bank Of America Corporation | Dynamic device activation control |
WO2023137150A1 (en) * | 2022-01-14 | 2023-07-20 | Artistic Eating Inc. | Saas platform, mobile application, and interface for management between coordinator, vendors, and attendees |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US7444305B2 (en) | 2008-10-28 |
US20030229583A1 (en) | 2003-12-11 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20090083156A1 (en) | Systems and methods for facilitating the staffing of promotional events | |
US7797191B2 (en) | Promotional event tracking system | |
US6343279B1 (en) | System integrating credit card transactions into a financial management system | |
US8538801B2 (en) | System and method for processing financial transactions | |
US7289970B1 (en) | Method to electronically track personal credit information | |
CA2518895C (en) | System and method for sales and inventory reconciliation | |
US20060178986A1 (en) | System and method for processing financial transactions using multi-payment preferences | |
US20050125343A1 (en) | Method and apparatus for monetizing personal consumer profiles by aggregating a plurality of consumer credit card accounts into one card | |
US20030191709A1 (en) | Distributed payment and loyalty processing for retail and vending | |
US20060085308A1 (en) | System and method for sales and service reconciliation | |
US20060089909A1 (en) | Cardless transaction system | |
US8364547B2 (en) | System for real-time sales and inventory reconciliation | |
US20130282480A1 (en) | System and method for collaborative affinity marketing | |
US20070005509A1 (en) | Tax tracker transaction card | |
JP2002542530A (en) | System and method for processing financial transactions | |
US20100153250A1 (en) | Service utilization id number settlement system | |
US20020032622A1 (en) | Shop management method and platform for performing the method | |
US20220398622A1 (en) | Method for banking integration within a product tree based multi-level marketing system | |
US20220398619A1 (en) | A method for credit card integration within a product tree based multi-level marketing system | |
JP4861604B2 (en) | System and method for processing financial transactions | |
JP2000305984A (en) | Method for point management and its implementation device, and recording medium where processing its program is recorded | |
JP3657263B2 (en) | Consideration payment management method and server, consideration payment management program, computer-readable recording medium, consideration payment management medium, and consideration payment recording medium | |
JP2002334254A (en) | Electronic coupon utilization system | |
JP2005522782A (en) | System and method for processing monetary transactions using various payment preferences | |
US20030023678A1 (en) | Device and process for enabling voluntary exchange of data for electronic points |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |