Apparatus and method for ensuring a real-time connection between users and selected service provider using voice mail
First Claim
1. A method implemented in a communication system, the method comprising:
- in response to a failure to establish real time communications between a user and a service provider selected by the user, deducting an amount from the selected service provider and recording a message; and
refunding an amount to the service provider in response to a connection between the user and the service provider established via the recorded message.
36 Assignments
0 Petitions
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.
-
Citations
11 Claims
-
1. A method implemented in a communication system, the method comprising:
-
in response to a failure to establish real time communications between a user and a service provider selected by the user, deducting an amount from the selected service provider and recording a message; and refunding an amount to the service provider in response to a connection between the user and the service provider established via the recorded message. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5)
-
-
6. A computer readable media storing instructions, the instructions causing a communication system to perform a method, the method comprising:
-
in response to a failure to establish real time communications between a user and a service provider selected by the user, deducting an amount from the selected service provider and recording a message; and refunding an amount to the service provider in response to a connection between the user and the service provider established via the recorded message. - View Dependent Claims (7, 8)
-
-
9. A communication system, comprising:
-
a first unit to establish real time communications between a user and a service provider selected by the user; and a second unit to deduct an amount from the selected service provider and to record a message in response to a failure to establish real time communications between the user and the service provider through a first connection attempt, and to refund an amount to the service provider in response to establishing a connection between the user and the service provider via the recorded message. - View Dependent Claims (10, 11)
-
Specification