E-commerce Price Comparison Engine with Automated Coupon Application
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Solution Overview
Problem
E-commerce users face difficulties in finding the best prices across multiple vendors due to the need to manually search for and test electronic coupon codes and compare prices, which is time-consuming and inefficient, and existing solutions do not provide automated tracking of affiliate purchases for cash back without user registration.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that automatically detects and applies the best electronic coupon codes and compares prices across multiple e-commerce vendors, using a browser plug-in or background service to track websites and apply coupons, cash back, and price comparisons, while allowing anonymous tracking of affiliate purchases for cash back without user account creation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If users manually search for and test electronic coupon codes across multiple vendors, then they can find the best price, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically collecting and storing coupon codes, pricing information, and product data from multiple vendors in advance. When a user searches for a product, the comparison is already prepared or can be quickly generated, eliminating the need for manual real-time testing of each coupon code.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically testing coupon codes, calculating net prices including taxes and shipping, and identifying the best deal without requiring user intervention. The automated system monitors vendor prices and coupon validity, continuously maintaining accurate comparison data.
2Measurement precision
If users visit multiple websites to compare product prices and information, then they can find the best deal, but the process takes significant time
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the functions of multiple vendor websites into a single comparison interface. It aggregates product listings, pricing, coupon codes, and net price calculations from multiple sources simultaneously, presenting all comparison data in one location rather than requiring users to navigate between multiple sites.
Solution Approach 2:
The system acts as an intermediary between users and multiple vendor websites. It collects data from various vendors through automated methods, processes the information centrally, and delivers consolidated comparison results to users, eliminating the need for direct user interaction with multiple vendor sites.
3Productivity
If the system automatically compares products and services across multiple merchants, then users receive maximum benefit, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the complex comparison task into distinct functional modules: data collection from vendors, coupon code validation, tax calculation, shipping cost computation, net price calculation, and result presentation. Each module handles a specific aspect of the comparison process, making the overall system more manageable and maintainable despite its comprehensive functionality.
4Measurement precision
If the system provides automated coupon application and price comparison, then user savings are maximized, but the ease of operation changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically applying the best coupon codes and presenting the optimal purchase decision without requiring user action. Users simply view the comparison results and follow the provided link to complete their purchase, eliminating the need for manual coupon code entry and application while ensuring maximum savings are achieved.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to a system, method, and computer program for providing maximum savings in electronic commerce. Specifically, during a shopping experience, several products or service inputs, such as: electronic coupon codes, sales taxes, cashback rebates, customer loyalty programs, etc. are calculated and compared against numerous competitor retailer stores to ascertain the lowest price. Several optimization schemes are also disclosed which enhance a user experience.