System and method for two-way communication between media consumers and media providers

Abstract

A method is provided for interaction between content providers and consumers on a communication system. The method includes acquiring data from the consumers regarding electronic commerce transactions conducted through the communication system. Content provider media assets are managed using the communication system for distribution of the assets to the consumers. The management of the content provider media assets is adjusted based on the acquired data from consumers regarding electronic commerce transactions, so as to generate a schedule for delivery of content provider media assets to the consumers that is based on the consumer's electronic commerce history.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is related to co-pending application Ser. No. 10 / 359,770, filed on Feb. 7, 2003 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ filed on Sep. 22, 2004.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to a method for 2-way communication between media consumers and media providers. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method for scheduling, licensing and delivery of digital content and for establishing a method for customers to use and transact on digital goods. BACKGROUND OF INVENTION [0003] The home entertainment market has been increasingly moving to an on-demand business model that has been fueled by a reduction in digital media distribution costs, an increase in the adoption of broadband access as well as in consumer enthusiasm for digital media in general. A study by Forrester Research on August 2004, found that broadband customers spend more time online participating in high-bandwidth activities s...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011] The present invention looks to overcome the drawbacks associated with the prior art and provides a system and method for an integrated business process solution (IBPS) that incorporates the full-lifecycle of content production and distribution with a simplified process for delivering preferences-based content. The present invention further provides an automated method for streamlining the content execution and delivery process while intelligently meeting the needs of end-consumers.

[0013] It is another object of the present invention to offer a process that provides a guideline for the digital distribution of content. In doing so, it establishes a framework that supports the exchange of any type of digital content, such as video, audio, forms, applications, data and games over devices, such as PCs, TVs or game consoles. The framework of the present invention is also configured to deliver digital media based on consumer preferences, simplify the purchase process by reducing the number of steps required for transactions and to automate the workflow for editing, validating, scheduling and publishing data.

[0014] It is yet another object of the present invention to simplify the asset sharing process to facilitate collaboration on marketing campaigns, enable one-step publishing of assets to multiple distribution channels and to reduce content duplication and redundancies. Additionally, the housing of information in one place enables those in the workflow process to reduce the amount of time required to locate relevant assets, thereby increasing productivity.

Problems solved by technology

However, problems exist on both sides of the digital content transaction process.

From the content consumption perspective, the process of purchasing and interacting with devices is cumbersome.

These steps often create a transaction hurdle as they require that the customer take time and effort to manually enter and reenter this information for each purchase.

Since data entry, particularly on devices, is more difficult, the barrier to complete a transaction is raised.

Thus, simplifying the purchase process is not necessarily enough to create a gratifying media experience.

Customers are exposed to a plethora of information that is increasingly difficult to navigate through.

Nonetheless, content providers experience difficulties in efficiently meeting the demands of their customers while sustaining productivity.

This can be a difficult feat considering the shear volume of customer information that also flows through these systems (such as a cable company's systems).

Moreover, when data is recorded in multiple systems, locations and formats, finding relevant assets and responding appropriately becomes an even greater challenge.

The use of multiple, distinct and incompatible systems adds to the amount of manual intensive steps.

The inevitable occurrence of change further exacerbates productivity issues.

For example, when new products or campaigns are added, workflow changes occur that result in bottlenecks in the distribution process.

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