Apparatus and Method for Ensuring a Real-Time Connection Between Users and Selected Service Provider Using Voice Mail
First Claim
1. A method comprising:
- receiving a selection from a user for a selected service provider;
initiating a first connection between the user and the selected service provider for a live conversation via a real-time communications link;
in response to a failure to establish the first connection, recording a message from the user to the selected service provider;
initiating a second connection between the selected service provider and the user via the real-time communications link in response to the service provider reviewing the message; and
collecting a premium fee for a connection initiation.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A method and apparatus are described for ensuring a real-time connection between users and selected service providers using voice mail. The system enables seekers of a wide array of services to select, contact, converse, and pay for a service provider using a communications device such as the telephone. A seeker locates a service provider by providing the name of a profession, which is recognized by the system'"'"'s software. Once a service provider is selected, the system connects the seeker with the service provider for a live conversation. However, during service provider unavailability, the system enables the seeker to leave a voice mail message for the service provider and reconnects the user and service provider once the message is reviewed by the service provider. The system automatically bills the seeker for the time spent conversing with the service provider and compensates the service provider.
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Citations
10 Claims
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1. A method comprising:
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receiving a selection from a user for a selected service provider;
initiating a first connection between the user and the selected service provider for a live conversation via a real-time communications link;
in response to a failure to establish the first connection, recording a message from the user to the selected service provider;
initiating a second connection between the selected service provider and the user via the real-time communications link in response to the service provider reviewing the message; and
collecting a premium fee for a connection initiation. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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Specification