Systems and methods for ordering and distributing incentive messages
Inactive Publication Date: 2006-02-16
THE WESTERN UNION CO
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- Abstract
- Description
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- Application Information
AI Technical Summary
Benefits of technology
[0006] One particular embodiment of the present invention provides a method for distributing an incentive message that includes a trophy and a redemptive code. In the embodiment, the trophy is detachable from the redemptive code. The method further includes receiving a request for the incentive message from a recipient point-of-contact, receiving a payment for the requested incentive message, and transferring the requested incentive message to the recipient point-of-contact. In some cases, the method further includes receiving the redemptive code, and providing a value at least in part based on the redemptive code. Such value can include, but is not limited to, cash and / or merchandise. Further instances can also include receiving a personal identification in relation to the redemptive code, accessing an file associated with the redemptive code that identifies at least one redeemer, and comparing the at least one redeemer with the personal identification. As just one particular example, the personal identification may be a driver's license. Obtaining a driver's license can add a degree of security.
Problems solved by technology
Unfortunately, with either of these systems, there is no means for attaching or transmitting therewith an actual negotiable payment instrument, such as a check or money order, which is cashable by the payee by depositing the same into the banking system, which processes the instrument through normal bank clearing channels.
However, as the BidPay.com web site explains, money orders are only available for auction related purchases.
Additionally, the BidPay.com web site does not provide for nor is there a suggestion or reason for the purchaser to include a personalized greeting message and selected graphic image to the seller on the “accounting stub” portion of the money order.
Method used
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[0033] The present invention is directed to systems, methods and articles for enabling an individual or entity to order a paper greeting message that can be customized or personalized and having included therewith or attached thereto a negotiable instrument. In some cases herein, the paper greeting message / payment instrument combination is referred to as a “gift-gram”, or “incentive message.” As used herein, the person ordering the gift-gram will generally be referred to the “sender” or “requester.” The person to whom the gift-gram is sent will generally be referred to as the “recipient.” In various cases, the recipient of the gift-gram will also be the payee identified on the payment instrument portion of the gift-gram; however, it is within the scope of present invention that the gift-gram could be mailed to a specific recipient and the payment instrument could be made out to a different payee. For example, a grandparent could mail the gift-gram to the ant at the parent's address ...
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Systems and methods associated with ordering, producing and / or distributing incentive messages. Systems can include means for receiving requests for incentive messages, for receiving payment for the incentive messages, and for transferring the incentive message to a receiver. Such incentive messages can include a trophy and a redemptive code.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 187,475, entitled “Systems And Methods For Ordering And Distributing Incentive Messages”, and filed on Jun. 28, 2002, which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 737,912, entitled “Online Method and System for Ordering and Having Delivered a Paper Greeting Message and Payment Instrument”, and filed on Dec. 15, 2000; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 010,068, entitled “Electronic Gift Greeting”, and filed on Dec. 6, 2001. The entirety of each of the preceding applications is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.FIELD OF THE PRESENT INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates broadly to the transmission of customized messages and, more particularly, to the creation and delivery of a customized paper greeting message having a negotiable payment instrument included therewith or attached thereto. BACKGROUND O...
Claims
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Login to View More IPC IPC(8): G06Q30/00G06Q40/00G06Q20/00
CPCG06Q20/02G06Q20/10G06Q30/02G06Q30/0213G06Q40/12G06Q30/0236G06Q30/0239G06Q30/0601G06Q40/128G06Q30/0225
InventorCOWELL, JAMES E.KARAS, PETER M.DEMARK, MICHELELYON, KAREN
OwnerTHE WESTERN UNION CO