Systems & Methods to reduce wait time in the service sector and just in time demand management
First Claim
1. A method to predict waiting time for customers/buyers in the service sector where there is volatility in determining the exact time of service. This method would look at past data of the service professional, information about the customers already waiting and ahead in queue to determine the most likely wait time for the customer. This time could either be an exact time or a small window wherein the service is most likely to be rendered. The method involves self learning (using neural networks, statistical modeling, etc.) based on prior history
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Abstract
Systems and Methods are provided to actively manage waiting time in the service sector where there is volatility in determining when exactly the service will be performed. In the service sector where buyers are waiting for service (for example Physician'"'"'s Office, Hospital, Automobile Repair Shops, Restaurants, DMV offices, etc.), this method can be used to control the flow of customers so that they do not have to spend time in the waiting room for the next available service professional. The demand can be actively managed for just in time customer arrival to increase efficiency and satisfaction. This system can be monetized by providing “moment of truth” advertising at the point of service via the same mechanism used to communicate the waiting time or a different medium (including but not limited to mobile phone, PDA, internet, websites, email, phone call, SMS, etc.)
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Citations
15 Claims
- 1. A method to predict waiting time for customers/buyers in the service sector where there is volatility in determining the exact time of service. This method would look at past data of the service professional, information about the customers already waiting and ahead in queue to determine the most likely wait time for the customer. This time could either be an exact time or a small window wherein the service is most likely to be rendered. The method involves self learning (using neural networks, statistical modeling, etc.) based on prior history
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11. The method of delivering targeted advertising at the time the service has/will be performed so as to deliver maximum value to the consumer &
- advertiser. The advertisement content would be determined by analyzing the specific situation of the buyer including type of service request, location, demographical information, and other information that is available. This advertisement can be delivered via multiple mechanisms (including but not limited to mobile phone, PDA, internet, websites, email, phone call, SMS, &
mail). The advertisement could involve the use of coupons or offer numbers that can be redeemed at retailers. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14, 15)
- advertiser. The advertisement content would be determined by analyzing the specific situation of the buyer including type of service request, location, demographical information, and other information that is available. This advertisement can be delivered via multiple mechanisms (including but not limited to mobile phone, PDA, internet, websites, email, phone call, SMS, &
Specification