Discrete Choice Modeling for Multi-Channel Traffic Forecasting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current systems for collecting, forecasting, and displaying transaction traffic from various communication methods are unable to coordinate or forecast information across multiple communication types, such as voice, SIP, VoIP, email, and instant messaging, leading to ineffective predictions and resource allocation in Work Force Management systems.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of Discrete Choice Modeling (DCM) using Multinomial Logit Estimation, which collects data from multiple communication channels, performs numeric transformations, calculates discrete choice probabilities, and forecasts future usage values, allowing for more accurate predictions of communication channel usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a singular communication system collects information on only one type of communication method, then the system complexity is reduced, but the ability to forecast and coordinate information across multiple communication types is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidability to handle multiple communication mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a universal communication analytics platform that can collect, process, and analyze data from multiple communication types (voice, email, chat, social media) through a single integrated framework. The discrete choice modeling engine serves multiple functions: forecasting communication traffic, analyzing customer preferences, and optimizing resource allocation across diverse communication channels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system segments communication data by type and source while maintaining a unified analysis structure. Each communication channel (voice, email, chat) is processed through separate data collection modules but is then integrated into a common discrete choice model that handles all communication types consistently, allowing complex multi-channel analysis without overwhelming system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If Work Force Management systems perform predictions on a single communication type, then the prediction accuracy for that specific type may be maintained, but the overall ability to assess communication traffic across various formats is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprediction accuracyVSAvoidcommunication traffic assessment capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system transforms communication data from multiple types into a unified set of parameters that can be processed by the discrete choice model. By converting diverse communication metrics into standardized choice probability parameters, the system maintains prediction accuracy while extending capability across multiple communication formats. The model adjusts parameters dynamically based on the specific communication type being analyzed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If customers are allowed to switch between different communication methods based on their preferences, then customer satisfaction and communication effectiveness improve, but the complexity of tracking and predicting communication behavior increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomer communication flexibilityVSAvoidtracking and predicting communication behavior
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The discrete choice model continuously learns from customer communication patterns and provides feedback predictions about future communication choices. The system analyzes historical data to understand customer preferences and updates its models in real-time, enabling accurate prediction of communication method selection without requiring complex manual tracking. The feedback loop automatically adapts to changing customer behaviors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS8184547B2Discrete choice method of reporting and predicting multiple transaction types
Publication Date: 2012.05.22 ALVARIA INC
  • US8184547B2 patent drawing
  • US8184547B2 patent drawing
  • US8184547B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The method for and system or apparatus for forecasting future communication transaction traffic from a customer include the steps of or structure for: collecting communication channel data on at least first and second communication channels; performing a numeric transformation to the data; calculating a discrete choice probability for each communication channel; and forecasting future period usage values for a user on a communication channel.