Patent ID: 8548423
Filing Date: 2013-10-01
Classification: G06Q,H04W

Abstract:
1. A method of conducting neighborhood watch employing a plurality of mobile devices communicatively coupled to a server, the method comprising: creating and managing user groups, by the server, including forming a primary group at the server, the primary group comprising user contact information for a group of users, wherein each of the group of users is associated with one of the plurality of mobile devices, wherein each of the group of users is typically resident in a neighborhood; sending one of an anonymous message, a regular message or an observation report by a first one of the users, employing a first mobile device among the plurality of mobile devices, to all the members of the primary group; receiving the one of an anonymous message, the regular message or the observation report by the members of the primary group employing an associated one of the plurality of mobile devices; providing instruction in the form of a guided activity, by a second one of the users from the primary group employing a second mobile device among the plurality of mobile devices, wherein the guided activity is communicated to all the members of the primary group and wherein the guided activity provides instructions on conducting a task, collecting data, reporting information, making observation reports regarding a task conducted, reporting on something noticed and reporting on a situation witnessed; retrieving the guided activity by the members of the primary group employing associated ones of the plurality of mobile devices; and coordinating group activities by the members of the primary group, wherein group activities comprises attending a meeting, conducting a neighborhood watch activity, and conducting assigned tasks; wherein the observation report comprises a set of user inputs provided by the first one of the users in response to a form presented to the first one of the users, wherein the form comprises a plurality of user prompts soliciting the set of user inputs.