Call Tracking via Back Channel Messaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing call tracking methods require separate telephone numbers, which are limited in inventory, making it difficult to effectively track calls responsive to advertisements without relying on a finite number of call tracking numbers.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing back channel messaging and data channel communications to track call information, allowing for the identification and storage of call details without the need for separate call tracking numbers, by using a communication device's unique identification and associating call information with user-selectable options related to advertisements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate call tracking numbers are assigned to service providers, then call tracking capability is achieved, but telephone number inventory is limited and exhausted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a back channel messaging system as an intermediary between the advertisement platform and the service provider. Instead of using separate telephone numbers, the system uses data channel communications and back channel messages to transmit call tracking information, thereby eliminating the need for additional telephone number inventory while maintaining call tracking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical telephone number-based tracking system with an electronic data communication system. Call tracking is achieved through electronic messages transmitted over data networks, substituting the physical telephone number resource with an electronic information-based tracking mechanism
2Loss of information
If traditional call tracking methods are used, then call information can be tracked, but separate telephone numbers are required for each tracked call
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the call tracking function with the existing advertisement delivery system. By combining these functions into a single integrated system that uses the same communication infrastructure, the patent eliminates the need for separate tracking numbers and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive call information tracking
3Quantity of substance
If data channel communications are used for call tracking, then telephone number inventory limitations are overcome, but new communication infrastructure is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing data network infrastructure universal by enabling it to serve dual purposes: delivering advertisements and tracking call information. This multi-functionality approach allows the same communication channels to handle both marketing content delivery and analytics data collection, eliminating the need for dedicated tracking infrastructure
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer-readable media are provided to track call information pertinent to calls responsive to advertisements. A message may be received via a data network from a communication device running an application. The application may be associated with a communication reference. Responsive to selection of a user-selectable option that may correspond to an advertisement presented via the communication device, the message may be sent, via the data network, to a call information handling system. The message may indicate call information. Unique identification of the communication device and/or a user may be determined. The call information may be stored in a tracking information repository in association with the unique identification.