Social Network Coupon Distribution via Node Linking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional coupon distribution methods, such as printed media and manufacturer websites, fail to effectively reach a wide audience and lack viral promotion mechanisms, limiting the reach and engagement of coupon offers.
Innovation Solution
A computer system architecture that integrates social networking platforms to unlock digital offers, such as coupons, by requiring users to 'like' or link their profile with the offer node, which then becomes accessible and can be shared within their social network, promoting viral distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If traditional coupon distribution methods (printed media, manufacturer websites) are used, then the coupon distribution system is simple and easy to implement, but the reach and engagement of coupon offers are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces social networking sites as an intermediary platform between coupon providers and potential customers. Instead of directly distributing coupons through traditional channels, the system uses social networks to facilitate indirect distribution, where users share coupons within their social circles, thereby expanding reach without requiring complex direct distribution infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the coupon distribution system universal by integrating with existing social networking platforms. The system leverages the universal access to social networks by users to distribute coupons, eliminating the need for separate complex distribution channels and utilizing the multi-functional capability of social networks for both communication and commerce
2Adaptability or versatility
If printed coupons are distributed with newspapers and magazines, then the distribution process is straightforward, but the ability to dynamically select coupons based on purchased products is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic coupon selection by allowing the system to adaptively choose and present different coupons based on real-time data about what products users have purchased. The coupon distribution mechanism dynamically adjusts its behavior based on user actions, transitioning from static pre-printed coupons to dynamic, context-aware coupon selection
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback loops where user purchasing behavior is monitored and used to inform future coupon selections. The system learns from user interactions and adjusts its coupon distribution strategy accordingly, creating a feedback-driven dynamic selection mechanism that improves adaptability over time
3Quantity of substance
If manufacturer websites are used for coupon distribution, then coupon control and tracking are easy, but the ability to reach each potential customer directly is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses social networking sites as intermediaries to bridge the gap between coupon control and broad customer reach. The system maintains control over coupon distribution while leveraging social networks to amplify reach, allowing coupons to be shared across multiple user networks without compromising tracking or control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables coupon replication and sharing across multiple social network contexts. Instead of limiting each customer to a single coupon instance, the system allows coupons to be copied and distributed through social sharing mechanisms, multiplying the effective reach while maintaining individual tracking through unique identifier systems
Data Source
AI summary
A server receives an indication that a user of a client device has selected social network data associated with a social network provider that maintains a social graph. The selected social network data indicates approval of a coupon offer by the user. In response to receiving the indication, the server computer provides the coupon to the user and sends a link message that causes a user node that is associated with the user to be linked, within the social graph, with a coupon node that is associated with the coupon offer. A message including data associated with the coupon offer is sent to a subset of a set of other users identified, in the social graph that the social network provider maintains, as connected to the user.