Method and system for tracking and billing for technology usage

Abstract

A system is provided with at least one differentiating, chargeable technology. Methods of selling and pricing the system are disclosed allowing the system to be sold at a reduced initial purchase price. The execution by a user of the system of the chargeable technology is tracked and charged for on a per-usage basis. Systems and methods are disclosed for tracking, recording and reporting data regarding the execution of the chargeable teachnology.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to the field of data processing systems and computer technology. More specifically, the invention relates to the provision of differentiated technology and the tracking and billing of usage of such technology. Background technique [0002] In the field of data processing systems, ie, computers of all types including personal computers, laptops, servers, mainframes, etc., the capabilities of systems have improved enormously faster than the demands of the applications used on such machines. Thus, almost any computer available for purchase, especially in the personal computer (PC) market, will technically meet the basic needs of a potential purchaser. In fact, many would-be buyers are troubled by the technology's potential when considering a purchase. [0003] In this environment, the computer itself was becoming an everyday commodity, almost interchangeable in the eyes of the buyer despite being made or supplied by differe...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

First, the user must contact the vendor to obtain authorization to use

This causes a delay between deciding to use the technology and being able to use it

Depending on the technology involved, this delay can be quite problematic

Second, the user may not be able to contact the seller immediately

If the online contact method is used, the user's system may not be able to connect to the network, or the user's or the vendor's system may malfunction when the need for this technology arises

Other contact methods may not be available during non-working hours, holidays, etc.

Third, the user must purchase either unlimited use rights or the right to use the technology a certain number of times

Unlimited uses may be far more than a user's anticipated needs, but depending on the options offered by the vendor, estimating how many uses will be required can be difficult—buy too many and waste money, too few and have to go through and buy more times later annoyance

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