Personal URL Conference Calling Access Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current conference calling systems are inefficient due to the complexity of initiating calls, requiring multiple numbers and codes, which are often misdialed, leading to frustration and wasted time, especially when trying to join calls from mobile devices.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a personal URL assigned to the conference call organizer, allowing participants to join calls by entering their phone number on a web page, with the option to use VoIP, eliminating the need for traditional dial-in numbers and codes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional conference calling systems use multiple dial-in numbers and codes, then conference calls can be initiated, but the complexity of managing and entering these numbers increases, leading to user frustration and errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the conference call access mechanism from traditional multi-number dialing systems and consolidates it into a single personal URL. This URL serves as the sole access point, eliminating the need for participants to manage multiple dial-in numbers, conference room numbers, and access codes. The system takes out the complexity of number management from the user interface and handles it server-side through URL routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The personal URL serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the conference call identifier, the dial-in number, the access code, and the invitation mechanism all in one. This universal access method allows participants to join conference calls from any device (mobile, desktop, landline) without needing to learn or remember different types of access information for different scenarios.
2Reliability
If conference calling systems provide comprehensive dial-in information, then participants can join calls, but the amount of information to remember and manage increases, causing frustration and time waste
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the essential access information from the overwhelming array of dial-in numbers and codes, distilling it down to a single personal URL. This extracted URL contains all necessary routing information server-side, so participants receive only the critical information needed to join the call without being burdened by extraneous details.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring participants to remember and manually enter multiple numbers and codes, the system provides a copyable personal URL that can be easily shared via email, text message, or other communication channels. This digital copy replaces the need for participants to retain multiple pieces of access information in memory or written form.
3Productivity
If traditional systems require multiple numbers and codes for conference calls, then calls can be initiated, but the time required to look up and enter correct information increases, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The organizer's personal URL is prepared in advance and can be shared with participants before the conference call. This preliminary provision of access information eliminates the need for participants to search for or look up dial-in numbers and codes at the moment they need to join the call, significantly reducing wait time and improving productivity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conference calling systems use non-memorable numbers and codes, then calls can be initiated, but participants must keep information on hand and switch between devices, increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical dialing system (entering multiple numbers on a phone keypad) with a digital web-based system where participants simply enter a URL into a browser. This substitution works universally across all devices with web browsing capability, from smartphones to desktop computers, eliminating the need to remember complex numerical sequences while maintaining device versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for managing conference calling using a URL assigned to a conference call organizer. One method includes receiving, from a conference call organizer, a request to be placed into a conference call associated with a URL assigned to the organizer; and receiving, from a prospective conference call participant, a request to be placed into the conference call associated with the URL. Another method includes receiving, from a first user, through a web page of a URL assigned to the first user, a first phone number at which the first user can be called; receiving, from a second user, through the web page of the URL, a second phone number at which the second user can be called; and initiating phone calls to the first user at the first number and the second user at the second number.