ASP-Hosted Sales System for Destination Event Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computerized management systems for destination events, which involve multiple service providers and large gatherings, are inefficient due to their reliance on client-server models that require significant maintenance, customization, and expertise, creating barriers for effective utilization by Convention Visitor Bureaus (CVBs) and service providers in responding to requests for proposals (RFPs).
Innovation Solution
An integrated computerized sales system with a secure Member User Interface (MUI) hosted by an Application Service Provider (ASP), allowing multiple independent service providers to access and contribute information directly over the Internet, automating responses to RFPs and reducing the need for manual data entry and communication, thus simplifying the management of destination events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a client-server model is used for managing destination events with multiple service providers, then the system can coordinate information among multiple providers, but the system requires significant maintenance, customization, and IT expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an Application Service Provider (ASP) as an intermediary between the CVB and multiple service providers. The ASP hosts a centralized database and web-based application that mediates information exchange, eliminating the need for the CVB to maintain complex client-server infrastructure while enabling coordination among multiple providers.
Solution Approach 2:
Service providers are empowered to independently access the ASP-hosted system through web browsers, view RFPs, submit responses, and update their own service availability information without requiring IT staff or complex configuration. This self-service capability reduces the burden on the CVB while maintaining system adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a client-server model is used for destination event management, then multiple service providers can be coordinated, but it requires significant maintenance and customization
Solution Approach 1:
The ASP acts as a maintenance intermediary, hosting and maintaining the database and application infrastructure. This transfers the maintenance burden from the CVB to the ASP, which specializes in providing maintained services to multiple clients simultaneously, thereby easing the maintenance burden on individual organizations.
Solution Approach 2:
The ASP infrastructure is designed to serve multiple CVBs and numerous service providers simultaneously through a single centralized system. This universal platform handles diverse RFPs, service types, and provider needs through standardized web-based interfaces, eliminating the need for separate customized installations for each organization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual processes are used for responding to RFPs, then flexibility in handling unique requests is maintained, but time-consuming manual data entry and communication are required
Solution Approach 1:
Service providers independently access the ASP system through web browsers to view RFPs, review their service availability in real-time, and submit responses without requiring manual data entry by CVB staff. The system automatically collects and consolidates responses from multiple providers, dramatically reducing the time required while maintaining flexibility in handling unique RFP requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Service providers pre-populate their service availability information in the ASP database before RFPs are issued. When an RFP is released, the system can immediately query and display relevant availability data, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual data collection and entry during the RFP response process.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional management systems are used, then service providers can be coordinated, but IT expertise is required for effective utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical client-server software installation and configuration model with a web-based access model. Service providers interact with the system through standard web browsers using familiar web interface conventions, eliminating the need to learn or configure complex desktop applications or server infrastructure while preserving full coordination functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated computerized sales system for destination events includes a member user interface (MUI) hosted by an application service provider (ASP) and accessible to a plurality of independent service providers that are members of a convention visitor bureau (CVB) organization. Members periodically log into the MUI to review information on a request for proposal (RFP) from a potential destination event organizer. The MUI includes a tentative response booking agreement (TRBA) electronic form to be completed by a member for any services responsive to the RFP that the member is willing to make available. A projected service availability database automatically incorporates information from the TRBA and is accessible only by the CVB. The projected service availability database is reviewed by the CVB in order to prepare a response to the RFP that includes information about services from members of the CVB that is then communicated to the potential destination event organizer.