Network-based methods and systems for responding to customer requests based on provider presence information
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A network-based method for monitoring the presence of a provider comprising:
- maintaining a presence status in the network for each of one or more providers even when a provider is not active; and
forwarding information about one or more of the providers from the network to at least one customer based on at least the presence status.
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Abstract
An “always-on” network and associated systems enable customers to compare and select products and services offered by one or more providers faster than previously thought possible. In addition, communication connections may be established between customers and providers in real-time.
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Citations
23 Claims
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1. A network-based method for monitoring the presence of a provider comprising:
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maintaining a presence status in the network for each of one or more providers even when a provider is not active; and forwarding information about one or more of the providers from the network to at least one customer based on at least the presence status. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
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12. A network-based system for monitoring the presence of a provider, the system operable to:
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maintain a presence status in the network for each of one or more providers even when a provider is not active; and forward information about one or more of the providers from the network to at least one customer based on at least the presence status. - View Dependent Claims (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22)
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23. A device for accessing an always-on network comprising:
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one or more keys, wherein one of the keys is operable to access an application that connects the device to an always on network; and a transceiver for receiving information associated with one or more products or services provided by one or more providers or information related to a customer, and for sending an indication to the always-on network indicating the selection of one or more of the providers, wherein the selection is based on presence status, cost, location, or response time information, or a request to be connected to the customer.
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Specification