Optimizing object displays on user interfaces

A computing device receives a request to render a listing of item entries on a user interface, receives a notification of selection of a user interface element on the user computing device requesting presentation of objects corresponding to each of the item entries, and determines first objects that correspond to the first item entry in the listing of item entries. The computing device analyzes each of the first objects that correspond to the first item entry by determining that the user has a preferred first object, determining that the first objects comprise the preferred first object, determining that the user has a preferred provider, and determining availability of the preferred first object at the preferred provider. The computing device renders the preferred first object in a first highlighted position on the user interface with each remaining first object that corresponds to the first item entry in a non-highlighted first position.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The technology disclosed herein relates to optimizing presentation of objects on a user interface.

BACKGROUND

Users often create lists that comprise generalized terms and item descriptions. The user is then required to transform these lists of generalized terms into corresponding objects. However, multiple objects can correspond to each generalized term. Conventional systems require the user to perform online searches for each generalized term to return multiple objects.

Additionally, conventional systems return a listing of the multiple objects without reference to the user's preference or intent when entering the generalized term. Without mapping the user's intent to the multiple objects, the user is presented with a random, non-optimized listing of multiple objects.

SUMMARY

Techniques herein provide computer-implemented methods to optimize object display on a user interface. In an example, one or more computing devices receives a request to render a listing of item entries on a user interface of a user computing device, the listing of item entries comprising two or more item entries. The one or more computing devices receives a notification of selection of a user interface element on the user computing device requesting presentation of objects corresponding to each of the two or more item entries and determines two or more first objects that correspond to a first item entry in the listing of item entries. The one or more computing devices analyzes each of the two or more first objects that correspond to the first item entry by determining that a user of the user computing device has a preferred first object, determining that the two or more first objects comprise the preferred first object, determining that the user of the user computing device has a preferred provider, and determining availability of the preferred first object at the preferred provider. The one or more computing devices renders the preferred first object in a first highlighted position on the user interface of the user computing device with each remaining first object that corresponds to the first item entry in a non-highlighted first position. In an example, the first highlighted position comprises a position on a leftmost edge of a display of the two or more first objects that correspond to the first item entry. In another example, each remaining first object that correspond to the first item entry are displayed on the right of the first highlighted position.

In certain other example aspects described herein, systems and computer program products to optimize item display on a user interface are provided.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Overview

Embodiments herein provide computer-implemented techniques to optimize presentation of items displayed on a user interface. In an example, a user accesses a list of items on a user computing device. In an example, the user presses a user interface element or directs an application on the user computing device to find available recommended objects that correspond to the items entered on the list. An example user interface element comprises a button or control to recommend objects that correspond to the items on the list of items.

In response to receiving the request to provide recommended objects corresponding to items on the list of items, a management computing system identifies objects that correspond to each item on the list and determines where each identified object is located. The management computing system also determines whether the user has preferences or defined rules regarding which objects/locations are preferred by the user. In an example, the management computing system determines the user's preferences based on the user's past behaviors and/or selected rules. In another example, the user has a preference to travel to the fewest number of locations to obtain objects. In yet another example, the user has two or more preferences that are applied in combination or in sequential order.

In an example, the management computing system determines an optimized presentation of each object that corresponds to each item on the user's list based on the user's preferences. An example optimized presentation comprises a first object shown in a highlighted position. An example highlighted position comprises a position on the left-most edge of the listing of objects with additional objects corresponding to the item on the user's list displayed to the right of the highlighted product. In other examples, the highlighted product is positioned in the center of the user interface or in a position that comprises stylized text, an icon, or badge indicating that the object and/or location is preferred.

In an example, the management computing system determines whether the user has a preference for or a history of selecting an object matching an item on the list and whether user has a preference for or history of selecting objects at a particular location. In these example, the management computing system maps an identified objects to known selections and user preferences to predict the user's intent when entering the item on the list. In another example, the management computing system determines that an object is available from a location that has a different object presented in a highlighted position. In this example, the management computing system infers that the user is likely visiting the location for one object, so it presents a second object from the same location in a highlighted position.

In an example, the optimized listing of available objects is displayed on the user interface of the user computing device. In an example, the optimized listing comprises two or more objects shown with at least one of the two or more objects shown in a highlighted display position. In this example, showing the object in the highlighted display position directs the user's attention to the object. In an example, the determination of the optimized listing is performed in real time or near real time so that once the user presses the user interface element to search the list, the optimized display is returned to the user computing device.

By using and relying on the methods and systems described herein, the system to optimize object presentation provides improvements and enhancements over conventional systems, for instance by improving the way the data is processed to address a complex combinatorial problem. The product management computing system processes multiple streams of data, user parameters, multiple merchant inventories, multiple product possibilities, and multiple user preferences to determine the optimized presentation of items. In order to adequately search, identify, and present valid products for presentation from such a complex data set, efficient computer methods for analyzing the data set are needed. The system improves computer functionality by improving the way the data is processed to address the complex combinatorial problem and to improving computer functionality by reducing the complexity of the data set such that it can be analyzed using more computationally efficient bitwise operations.

Various examples will be explained in more detail in the following description, read in conjunction with the figures illustrating the program flow.

Turning now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent like (but not necessarily identical) elements throughout the figures, example embodiments are described in detail.

Example System Architectures

FIG. 1is a block diagram depicting a system to optimize object presentation, in accordance with certain example embodiments. As depicted inFIG. 1, the example operating environment100comprises systems110and130and user computing device120that are configured to communicate with one another via one or more networks140via network computing devices. In another example, two or more of these systems (including systems110and130and user computing device120) are integrated into the same system. In some examples, a user associated with a device must install an application and/or make a feature selection to obtain the benefits of the techniques described herein.

Each network140comprises a wired or wireless telecommunication mechanism by which network systems (including systems110and130and user computing device120) can communicate and exchange data. For example, each network140can include, be implemented as, or may be a part of, a storage area network (SAN), personal area network (PAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a wireless local area network (WLAN), a virtual private network (VPN), an intranet, an Internet, a mobile telephone network, a card network, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), near field communication network (NFC), any form of standardized radio frequency, infrared, sound (for example, audible sounds, melodies, and ultrasound), other short range communication channel, or any combination thereof, or any other appropriate architecture or system that facilitates the communication of signals, data, and/or messages (generally referred to as data). Throughout this specification, it should be understood that the terms “data” and “information” are used interchangeably herein to refer to text, images, audio, video, or any other form of information that can exist in a computer-based environment.

In an example, each network system (including systems110and130and user computing device120) comprises a device having a communication module capable of transmitting and receiving data over the network140. For example, each network system (including systems110and130and user computing device120) may comprise a server, personal computer, mobile device (for example, notebook computer, handheld computer, tablet computer, netbook computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), video game device, GPS locator device, cellular telephone, Smartphone, or other mobile device), a television with one or more processors embedded therein and/or coupled thereto, an appliance with one or more processors embedded therein and/or coupled thereto, or other appropriate technology that comprises or is coupled to a web browser or other application for communicating via the network140. In the example depicted inFIG. 1, the network systems (including systems110and130and user computing device120) are operated by merchants, users, and product management computing system operators, respectively.

The merchant computing system110comprises an application115and a data storage unit119. In an example, the merchant operates a brick and mortar commercial store and maintains an inventory of items within the physical store that may be purchased by the user within the store location. In another example, the merchant operates an online store and maintains an inventory of items that may be purchased by the user and shipped to the user's address. In another example, the merchant operates both a brick and mortar commercial store and an online store, offering the user the option to travel to the store or have items delivered.

In an example, the merchant maintains an inventory of items available for purchase and a purchase price associated with each item. The application115is a program, function, routine, applet or similar entity that exists on and performs its operations on the merchant computing system110. For example, the application115may be one or more of a shopping application, merchant computing system110application, an Internet browser, or other suitable application operating on the merchant computing system110that allows the merchant to maintain an inventory of items and communicate with the product management computing system130. In some examples, the merchant must install an application115and/or make a feature selection on a merchant computing device to obtain the benefits of the techniques described herein.

In an example, the data storage unit119may be a memory unit resident on the merchant computing system110. An example data storage unit110enables storage of item inventory and item prices for retrieval by or communication to the product management computing system130. In an example, the data storage unit119can include any local or remote data storage structure accessible to the merchant computing system110suitable for storing information. In an example, the data storage unit119stores encrypted information, such as HTML5 local storage.

In an example, a user can view an optimized display of desired items on a user computing device120. An example user computing device120comprises a user interface121, an application125, and a data storage unit129. In an example, the user computing device120may be a personal computer, mobile device (for example, notebook, computer, tablet computer, netbook computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), video game device, GPS locator device, cellular telephone, Smartphone or other mobile device), television, wearable computing devices (for example, watches, rings, or glasses), or other appropriate technology that comprises or is coupled to a web server (or other suitable application for interacting with web page files) or that comprises or is coupled to an application125.

The user can use the user computing device120to create a list of desired items and view an optimized display of the desired items via the user interface121and the application125. For example, the user interface121comprises a touch screen, a voice-based interface, or any other interface that allows the user to provide input and receive output from the application125. In an example, the user interacts with the application125via the user interface121.

The application125is a program, function, routine, applet or similar entity that exists on and performs its operations on the user computing device120. For example, the application125may be one or more of a shopping application, an Internet browser, a user interface121application, or other suitable application operating on the user computing device120. In some examples, the user must install an application125and/or make a feature selection on the user computing device120to obtain the benefits of the techniques described herein.

In an example, the data storage unit129enables storage of user contact details for retrieval of a product management computing system130account. In an example, the data storage unit129can include any local or remote data storage structure accessible to the user computing device120suitable for storing information. In an example, the data storage unit129stores encrypted information, such as HTML5 local storage.

In an example, the user communicates with the product management computing system130using the application125and the user interface121. An example product management computing system130comprises a product list unit131, a shopping unit133, and a data storage unit139. An example product list unit131communicates with the user computing device120to create a listing of desired items, add items to an existing list, delete items from a list, and otherwise manipulate the list and/or items on the list. In an example the user manipulates user interface elements displayed on the user interface121of the user computing device120to manipulate the list and/or items on the list. In an example, the listing of items comprises a shopping list and each item comprises a product. An example shopping list is shown inFIG. 4.

In an example, the user manipulates a user interface element displayed on the user interface121of the user computing device120to instruct the product management computing system130to present an optimized display of products available for purchase that correspond to the items displayed on the shopping list. An example shopping unit133communicates with the one or more merchant computing systems110to determine availability and pricing associated with each item on the user's shopping list. An example shopping unit133retrieves user preferences, shopping history, and related user information to present an optimized display listing on the user interface121of the user computing device120. In an example, the optimized display listing comprises a listing of one or more products corresponding to the user's shopping list. An example optimized display of available products is shown inFIGS. 7 and 8.

The shopping lists, user preferences, shopping history, and related information are saved in the data storage unit139. In an example, the data storage unit139can include any local or remote data storage structure accessible to the product management computing system130suitable for storing information. In an example, the data storage unit139stores encrypted information, such as HTML5 local storage.

It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are example and other means of establishing a communications link between the computers and devices can be used. Additionally, those having ordinary skill in the art and having the benefit of the present disclosure will appreciate that the computing devices illustrated inFIG. 1can have any of several other suitable computer system configurations. For example a user computing device120embodied as a mobile phone or handheld computer may not include all the components described above.

In examples, the network computing devices and any other computing machines associated with the technology presented herein may be any type of computing machine such as, but not limited to, those discussed in more detail with respect toFIG. 9. Furthermore, any functions, applications, or components associated with any of these computing machines, such as those described herein or any others (for example, scripts, web content, software, firmware, hardware, or modules) associated with the technology presented herein may by any of the components discussed in more detail with respect toFIG. 9. The computing machines discussed herein may communicate with one another, as well as with other computing machines or communication systems over one or more networks, such as network140and2080. The network140and2080may comprise any type of data or communications network, including any of the network technology discussed with respect toFIG. 9.

Example Processes

The components of the example operating environment100are described hereinafter with reference to the example methods illustrated inFIGS. 2-3 and 5-6. The example methods ofFIGS. 2-3 and 5-6may also be performed with other systems and in other environments. The operations described with respect to any of theFIGS. 2-3 and 5-6can be implemented as executable code stored on a computer or machine readable non-transitory tangible storage medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, ROM, EEPROM, nonvolatile RAM, CD-ROM, etc.) that are completed based on execution of the code by a processor circuit implemented using one or more integrated circuits; the operations described herein also can be implemented as executable logic that is encoded in one or more non-transitory tangible media for execution (e.g., programmable logic arrays or devices, field programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, application specific integrated circuits, etc.).

FIG. 2is a block flow diagram depicting a method to method to optimize object presentation, in accordance with certain examples. The method200is described with reference to the components illustrated inFIG. 1.

In block210, a shopping list is displayed on the user interface121of the user computing device120. The method to display the shopping list on the user interface121is described in more detail hereinafter with reference to the methods described inFIG. 3. In an example, the shopping list comprises a listing of one or more terms entered by or on behalf of the user. An example listing of terms comprises generalized terms describing one or more items desired by the user. In an example, the generalized terms comprise an item description or broad category that corresponds to a shopping list item. For example, the generalized term is “milk” instead of the specific terms “Brand A Organic Skim Milk.” In other examples, the listing of terms comprises specific terms entered by or on behalf of the user. In this example, the user enters or the product management computing system130determines the specific terms corresponding to the user's desired item.

FIG. 3is a block flow diagram depicting a method210to display a shopping list on a user interface121, in accordance with certain examples, as referenced in block210. The method210is described with reference to the components illustrated inFIG. 1.

In block310, the user accesses a shopping list. In an example, the user opens or accesses an application125on the user computing device120. The application125comprises a shopping list application125or web browser application125that enables the user computing device120to display the shopping list. In an example, the user has previously created and added items to the shopping list. In this example, the shopping list comprises a listing of one or more items or products that the user desires to purchase.

In an example the shopping list and/or application125comprises a user identifier or account identifier that enables the product management computing system130to identify the user or the user computing device120. In another example, the user can create more than one shopping list. In this example, the user selects the desired shopping list using the application. For example, the user interface121displays an identifier or user interface element representing each of the one or more shopping lists and the user selects the desired shopping list by pressing or activating the user interface121element. In an example, each shopping list comprises an identifier that enables the product management computing system130to identify the particular shopping list.

In block320, the product management computing system130receives the request to display the shopping list on the user interface121of the user computing device120. In an example, the application125transmits a request to the product management computing system130that comprises one or more identifiers that enable the product management computing system130to identify the requested shopping list. In an example, the one or more identifiers comprise the user account identifier and/or the shopping list identifier.

In block330, the product management computing system130retrieves the requested shopping list. In an example, the product management computing system130determines which shopping list corresponds to the one or more identifiers included in the request and retrieves the corresponding shopping list from the data storage unit139.

In block340, the shopping list is displayed on the user interface121of the user computing device120. In an example, the product management computing system130transmits the retrieved shopping list to the application125for display on the user interface121. In an example, the displayed shopping list comprises a listing of one or more products and a user interface121element that allows the user to add additional items to the shopping list. In another example, the displayed shopping list comprises a user interface121element that allows the user to instruct the application125to search for available products that correspond to the items on the shopping list.

The method210then proceeds to block220inFIG. 2.

FIG. 4illustrates an example shopping list400displayed on a user interface121of a user computing device120. In this example, the shopping list400comprises the following five items: size 1 diapers410a, milk410b, paper towels410c, laundry detergent410d, and hand soap410e. In an example, the five items410athrough410eare displayed in a vertical list with a single item on each line of the shopping list400.

In another example, each item (410athrough410e) comprises a user interface121element on the left-most edge of each line on the list. For example, the user interface121element comprises a checkbox or button that is selectable by the user. In an example, the user can select the user interface121element to cross-off or indicate that an item was purchased. In another example, the user can swipe across the listed item to delete or cross-off the item.

In an example, the user can add additional items to the shopping list400by selecting the “Add Item” user interface element430. In an example, when the “Add Item” user interface element430is selected, the user interface121displays a keyboard that allows the user to type in a desired item. In another example, the user can speak into a microphone component of the user computing device120to add an additional item. In an example, the user interface121displays the additional item in the listing of items410.

In an example, the user can select a “Shop Your List” user interface element440to instruct the product management computing system130to search for available products that correspond to each item410athrough410elisted in the shopping list400.

Returning toFIG. 2, in block220, the user selects a user interface121element that instructs the product management computing system130to search for available products that correspond to each item listed in the shopping list. Continuing with the previous example inFIG. 4, the user selects the “Shop Your List” user interface element440by pressing or hovering over the displayed user interface121element.

In block230, the product management computing system130receives the request to shop the user's shopping list. In an example, the application125receives the user's selection of the user interface121element and communicates a request to the product management computing system130. In this example, the request comprises an identifier for each product on the shopping list. In another example, the request further comprises an account identifier that corresponds to the user and/or the shopping list. In this example, the account identifier enables the product management computing system130to identify the user's account.

An example user's account comprises user preferences and/or shopping history. In an example, the product management computing system130maintains a history of prior purchases and/or selections made by the user. In this example, the product management computing system130can analyze the user's history to determine user preferences. For example, the user has previously purchased Brand AA chips on multiple occasions. The product management computing system130can determine that the user has a preference for Brand AA chips based on the multiple prior purchases.

In another example, the user defines or selects preferences. For example, the user can select options that instruct the product management computing system130that the user prefers the cheapest product choices, or that the user prefers to order/shop at the fewest number of merchant locations. In another example, the user can select options that instruct the product management computing system130that the user prefers Merchant CC, Brand BB products, whole milk, and/or organic products. In another example, the product management computing system130can analyze user actions and/or receive notices of user actions/preferences from another computing system to deduce user preferences. In an example, the user preferences and user purchase history are stored in the data storage unit139for retrieval and analysis by the product management computing system130. In an example, the user preferences are continuously updated.

In block240, the product management computing system130retrieves the user's purchase history and/or user preferences. In an example, the product management computing system130identifies the user account using the account identifier that corresponds to the user and/or the shopping list from the request to shop the user's shopping list.

In block250, the product management computing system130determines which products correspond to each item listed on the shopping list. In an example, the product management computing system130identifies each product using the product identifiers from the request to shop the user's shopping list. In this example, the product management computing system130cross-references each product identifier with known products to identify the corresponding products.

In an example, an item listed on the shopping list is specific enough to enable the product management computing system130to identify a known product. Continuing with the previous example fromFIG. 4, “Diapers size 1”410afrom the shopping list400will return a result of size 1 infant diapers of various brands. In another example, an item on the shopping list may return more than one type of specific product. Continuing with the previous example, “Milk”410bfrom the shopping list400can return various different types of milk (for example, whole milk, condensed milk, powdered milk, chocolate milk), various different sizes (for example, half gallon, one can, one pint), and various different brands (for example, Brand A, Brand B, Brand C). In an example, the product management computing system130creates a predictive model or trains a classifier model to predict a known product that corresponds to the item listed on the shopping list based on prior product suggestions, the user's purchase history, and/or user preferences. In an example, the predictive model is an artificial neural network or other form of adaptive system model, wherein the system analyzes data and relationships to find patterns in data. In another example, the classifier model is a Gaussian Mixture Model, decision tree, Markov Decision Process, or other mathematical framework for modeling decision making. In an example, the model is trained based on historical data to predict a user's purchase intent based on previous products selected after entry of an item on a shopping list and user preference data received by the product management computing system130. In an example, the process is an ongoing learning process, wherein data is continuously added to the product management computing system130and the model is continuously updated.

In block260, the product management computing system130queries inventories of multiple merchant computing systems110for each product to determine product availability. In an example, the product management computing system130transmits a request to each merchant computing system110to determine whether each product is available at the merchant. In another example, the merchant computing systems110routinely communicate inventory to the product management computing system130. In yet another example, the product management computing system130queries an online system or central database to determine where each product is available.

In block270, the product management computing system130queries the price of each product at each of the merchants where the product is available. In an example, the product management computing system130transmits a request to each merchant computing system110to determine a price of each corresponding product available at the merchant. In another example, the merchant computing systems110routinely communicate prices to the product management computing system130. In yet another example, the product management computing system130queries an online system or central database to determine pricing of each product.

In block280, the product management computing system130prepares an optimized listing of products for display on the user interface121of the user computing device120. The method to optimize the display of products is described in more detail hereinafter with reference to the methods described inFIGS. 5-6.

FIGS. 5-6are block flow diagrams depicting a method280to optimize the display of products, in accordance with certain examples, as referenced in block280. The method280is described with reference to the components illustrated inFIG. 1. In an example, the methods described inFIGS. 5-6are repeated for each item listed on the shopping list. In an example, the product management computing system130is determining an optimized order to present the product(s) identified in block250as corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list based first on the user's preferences for or against particular brands, merchants, and products.

In block510, the product management computing system130determines whether the user has a preference for or a history of purchases for a product matching an item on the shopping list. In an example, the product management computing system130cross references the product(s) identified in block250as corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list to the user's purchase history and/or user preferences identified in block240to identify prefered products. In another example, the product management computing system130maps an identified product to known product purchases and user preferences to predict the user's intent when entering the item on the shopping list. For example, the product management computing system130can predict that the user intended to purchase Brand BB chips based on the user's known preference for Brand BB chips, even if the user only entered “chips” on the shopping list.

In yet another example, the product management computing system130creates a predictive model or trains a classifier model to predict a preferred product based on the user's purchase history and/or user preferences. In an example, the predictive model is an artificial neural network or other form of adaptive system model, wherein the system analyzes data and relationships to find patterns in data. In another example, the classifier model is a Gaussian Mixture Model, decision tree, Markov Decision Process, or other mathematical framework for modeling decision making. In an example, the model is trained based on historical data to predict a user's purchase intent based on previous products purchased after entry of an item on a shopping list and user preference data received by the product management computing system130. In an example, the process is an ongoing learning process, wherein data is continuously added to the product management computing system130and the model is continuously updated.

In block520, the product management computing system130determines whether the user has a preferred product that corresponds to the identified product. If the user has a preferred product, the method280proceeds to block530inFIG. 5.

In block530, the product management computing system130determines whether the user has a preference for or history of purchases at a particular merchant. In an example, the product management computing system130cross references a list of merchant to the user's purchase history and/or user preferences identified in block240to identify one or more preferred merchants. In another example, the product management computing system130maps an identified preferred product to known merchant purchases and user preferences to predict the user's intent when entering the item on the shopping list. For example, the product management computing system130can predict that the user intended to purchase Brand BB chips from Merchant ABC based on the user's known preference for purchasing products at Merchant ABC, even if the user only entered “chips” on the shopping list.

In another example, the user defines one or more merchants as a “preferred merchant” when entering user preferences. In yet another example, the product management computing system130creates a predictive model or trains a classifier model to predict a preferred product based on the user's purchase history and/or user preferences. In an example, the model is trained based on historical data to predict a user's purchase intent based on previous purchases at particular merchants after entry of an item on a shopping list and user preference data received by the product management computing system130.

In block540, the product management computing system130determines whether the user has a preferred merchant. If the user does not have a preferred merchant, the method280proceeds to block550inFIG. 5.

In block550, the product management computing system130presents the preferred product first in a string of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. In this example, the product management computing system130has identified a preferred product in block520, but did not identify a preferred merchant in block540. The product management computing system130presents the preferred product in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. An example highlighted position comprises a position on the left-most edge of the listing of products. In this example, additional products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list are list to the right of the preferred product. In another example, the preferred product is positioned in the center of the user interface121. In yet another example, the preferred product is highlighted, comprises stylized text, or comprises an icon or badge indicating that the product is preferred.

From block550, the method280continues to block590inFIG. 5.

FIG. 7illustrates an example optimized display700of products on a user interface121of a user computing device120. In this example, the items from the shopping list400(size 1 diapers410a, milk410b, paper towels410c, laundry detergent410d, and hand soap410e) are displayed in a vertical list with one or more products corresponding to each item displayed in a horizontal list on each vertical line. In another example, the vertical listing of extends beyond the visible user interface121screen. In this example, a scroll bar element750is presented to allow the user to view different portions of the user interface121display700a.

In this example, the user entered “diapers size 1”410aon the shopping list800. The product management computing system130determined Brand A size 1 diapers, Brand B size diapers, and Brand C size 1 diapers correspond to the first item410aon the user's shopping list400. The product management computing system130also determined that Merchant X, Merchant Y, and Merchant Z have size 1 diapers that correspond to the first item410aon the user's shopping list400.

Continuing with this example, the product management computing system130then determined that the user has a preference for Brand A diapers based on the user's purchase history and/or user preferences. The product management computing system130can then predict that the user intends to purchase Brand A size 1 diapers710abased on the user's known preference for Brand A diapers, even if the user only entered “size 1 diapers”410aon the shopping list400. In this example, the product management computing system130lists the preferred Brand A size 1 diapers first in position710aand highlights the product as a preferred product using a design element730a.

Returning to block540inFIG. 5, if the user has a preferred merchant, the method280proceeds to block560inFIG. 5.

In block560, the product management computing system130determines whether the preferred product is available at the preferred merchant. In an example, the product management computing system130cross-references the product inventories identified in block260with the preferred merchant identified in block540for the preferred product identified in block520to determine whether the preferred merchant has sufficient inventory of the preferred product. In an example, sufficient inventory comprises one or more units of the preferred product.

In block570, the product management computing system130determines whether preferred merchant has sufficient inventory of the preferred product. If the preferred merchant does not have sufficient inventory of the preferred product, the method280proceeds to block550inFIG. 5and the product management computing system130presents the preferred product first in a string of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. In this example, the product management computing system130has identified a preferred product in block520and a preferred merchant in block540, but the preferred merchant did not have sufficient inventory of the preferred product in block570. The product management computing system130presents the preferred product in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. An example highlighted position comprises a position on the left-most edge of the listing of products. In this example, additional products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list are list to the right of the preferred product. In another example, the preferred product is positioned in the center of the user interface121. In yet another example, the preferred product is highlighted, comprises stylized text, or comprises an icon or badge indicating that the product is preferred.

Continuing with the previous example, inFIG. 7, the product management computing system130determined that the user has a preference for Merchant Y, but Merchant Y does not have the preferred Brand A size 1 diapers. The product management computing system130lists the Brand B diapers sold by preferred Merchant Y in the second position to the right of the first position710aand highlights the merchant as a preferred merchant using a second design element740a. The product management computing system130lists the Brand C diapers sold by Merchant Z in the third position to the right of the second position. In an example, a user interface element760(for example an arrow) is presented if all of the products presented on the horizontal line are not visible on the user interface121. The arrow allows the user to scroll and view the remaining products.

Returning to block570inFIG. 5, if the preferred merchant has sufficient inventory of the preferred product, the method280proceeds to block580inFIG. 5.

In block580, the product management computing system130presents the preferred product from the preferred merchant first in a string of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. In this example, the product management computing system130has identified a preferred product in block520, a preferred merchant in block540and confirmed that the preferred merchant has sufficient inventory of the preferred product in block570. The product management computing system130presents the preferred product from the preferred merchant in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. An example highlighted position comprises a position on the left-most edge of the listing of products. In this example, additional products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list are list to the right of the preferred product from the preferred merchant. In another example, the preferred product from the preferred merchant is positioned in the center of the user interface121. In yet another example, the preferred product from the preferred merchant is highlighted, comprises stylized text, or comprises an icon or badge indicating that the product is preferred.

Continuing with the previous example,FIG. 7illustrates an example optimized display700of products on a user interface121of a user computing device120. In this example, the items from the shopping list400(size 1 diapers410a, milk410b, paper towels410c, laundry detergent410d, and hand soap410e) are displayed in a vertical list with one or more products corresponding to each item displayed in a horizontal list on each vertical line.

In an example, the user entered “milk”410bon the shopping list400. The product management computing system130determined Brand D milk, Brand E milk, and Brand F milk correspond to the second item410bon the user's shopping list400. The product management computing system130also determined that Merchant X, Merchant Y, and Merchant Z have milk that correspond to the second item410bon the user's shopping list400.

Continuing with this example, the product management computing system130then determined that the user has a preference for Brand D milk based on the user's purchase history and/or user preferences. The product management computing system130can then predict that the user intends to purchase Brand D milk710bbased on the user's known preference for Brand D milk, even if the user only entered “milk”410bon the shopping list400. In this example, the product management computing system130lists the preferred Brand D milk first in position710band highlights the product as a preferred product using a design element730b.

The product management computing system130determined that the user has a preference for Merchant Y, and Merchant Y has sufficient inventory of the preferred Brand D milk. The product management computing system130lists the Brand D milk sold by preferred Merchant Y in the first position710band highlights the merchant as a preferred merchant using a second design element740b. The product management computing system130lists the Brand E and Brand F milk sold by Merchant Z and Merchant X in the second and third positions to the right of the first position710b. In an example, a user interface element760(for example an arrow) is presented if all of the products presented on the horizontal line are not visible on the user interface. The arrow allows the user to scroll and view the remaining products.

Returning toFIG. 5, from block580, the method280proceeds to block590. In block590, the product management computing system130determines whether there are additional items on the user's shopping list. If there are additional items on the user's shopping list, the method280repeats from block510until all items on the user's shopping list have products optimally presented. Returning to block590, if there are no additional items on the user's shopping list, the method280proceeds to block290inFIG. 2.

Returning to block520inFIG. 5, if the user does not have a preferred product, the method280proceeds to block610inFIG. 6. In block610, the product management computing system130determines whether the user has a preference for or a history of purchases at a particular merchant. In this example, the product management computing system130determined that the user does not have a preferred product at block520.

In an example, the product management computing system130determines whether the user has a preference for or history of purchases at a particular merchant. In an example, the product management computing system130cross references a list of merchant to the item on the user's shopping list to the user's purchase history and/or user preferences identified in block240to identify one or more preferred merchants. In another example, the product management computing system130maps an identified product to known merchant purchases and user preferences to predict the user's intent when entering the item on the shopping list. For example, the product management computing system130can predict that the user intended to purchase chips from Merchant MNO based on the user's known preference for purchasing products at Merchant MNO, even if the user only entered “chips” on the shopping list.

In another example, the user defines one or more merchants as a “preferred merchant” when entering user preferences. In yet another example, the product management computing system130creates a predictive model or trains a classifier model to predict a preferred product based on the user's purchase history and/or user preferences. In an example, the model is trained based on historical data to predict a user's purchase intent based on previous purchases at particular merchants after entry of an item on a shopping list and user preference data received by the product management computing system130.

In block615, the product management computing system130determines whether the user has a preferred merchant. If the user does not have a preferred merchant, the method280proceeds to block650inFIG. 6.

Returning to block615, if the product management computing system130determines that the user has a preferred merchant, the method280proceeds to block620. In block620, the product management computing system130determines whether the product is available at the preferred merchant. In an example, the product management computing system130cross-references the product inventories identified in block260with the preferred merchant identified in block615to determine whether the preferred merchant has sufficient inventory of a product. In an example, sufficient inventory comprises one or more units of the product.

In block625, the product management computing system130determines whether preferred merchant has sufficient inventory of the product. If the product management computing system130determines that the preferred merchant has sufficient inventory of the product, the method280proceeds to block630. In block630, the product management computing system130presents the product from the preferred merchant first in a string of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. In this example, the product management computing system130has identified products in block250, a preferred merchant in block615and confirmed that the preferred merchant has sufficient inventory of the product in block625. The product management computing system130presents the product from the preferred merchant in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. An example highlighted position comprises a position on the left-most edge of the listing of products. In this example, additional products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list are list to the right of the preferred product from the preferred merchant. In another example, the preferred product from the preferred merchant is positioned in the center of the user interface121. In yet another example, the preferred product from the preferred merchant is highlighted, comprises stylized text, or comprises an icon or badge indicating that the product is preferred.

Continuing with the previous example,FIG. 7illustrates an example optimized display700of products on a user interface121of a user computing device120. In this example, the items from the shopping list400(size 1 diapers410a, milk410b, paper towels410c, laundry detergent410d, and hand soap410e) are displayed in a vertical list with one or more products corresponding to each item displayed in a horizontal list on each vertical line.

In an example, the user entered “paper towels”410con the shopping list800. The product management computing system130determined Brand G paper towels, Brand H paper towels, and Brand I paper towels correspond to the third item410con the user's shopping list400. The product management computing system130also determined that Merchant X, Merchant Y, and Merchant Z have paper towels that correspond to the third item410con the user's shopping list400.

Continuing with this example, the product management computing system130determined that the user does not have a preference for any of Brand G, Brand H, or Brand I paper towels based on the user's purchase history and/or user preferences. The product management computing system130then determined that the user has a preference for Merchant Y, and Merchant Y has sufficient inventory of Brand G paper towels. The product management computing system130lists the Brand G paper towels sold by preferred Merchant Y in the first position710cand highlights the merchant as a preferred merchant using a design element740c. The product management computing system130lists the Brand H and Brand I paper towels sold by Merchant Z and Merchant X in the second and third positions to the right of the first position710c. In an example, a user interface element760(for example an arrow) is presented if all of the products presented on the horizontal line are not visible on the user interface. The arrow allows the user to scroll and view the remaining products.

Returning toFIG. 6, the method280then proceeds to block640. In block640, the product management computing system130determines whether there are additional items on the user's shopping list. If there are additional items on the user's shopping list, the method280repeats from block510inFIG. 5until all items on the user's shopping list have products optimally presented. Returning to block640inFIG. 6, if there are no additional items on the user's shopping list, the method280proceeds to block290inFIG. 2.

Returning toFIG. 6, in block625, if the preferred merchant does not have sufficient inventory of the product, the method280proceeds to block650. In block650, the product management computing system130determine which merchants have sufficient inventory of products that correspond to the item on the shopping list. In this example, the product management computing system130has identified the products in block250and determined that the user does not have a preferred merchant in block615, or that the preferred merchant does not have sufficient inventory of the product in block625. The product management computing system130cross-references the identified products from block250with the product inventories identified in block260to identify which merchants have sufficient inventory of the product(s).

In block660, the product management computing system130determines whether a product that corresponds to the item from the shopping list (as identified in block250) is available from a merchant that has another product presented in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to a different item on the user's shopping list. For example, even though Merchant GHF is not a preferred merchant, a preferred product sold by Merchant GHF is presented first for another item on the user's shopping list. In this example, the product management computing system130would determine that a second product is available from Merchant GHF.

In block665, the product management computing system130determines whether a product is available from the same merchant that has a different product presented in a highlighted position in the listing of products. If the same merchant does not have a highlighted position for a different product, the method280proceeds to block680.

Returning to block665, if the product management computing system130determines that a product that corresponds to the item from the shopping list (as identified in block250) is available from a merchant that has another product presented in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to a different item on the user's shopping list, the method proceeds to block670. In block670, the product management computing system130presents the product that corresponds to the item from the shopping list (as identified in block250) that is available from the merchant in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. An example highlighted position comprises a position on the left-most edge of the listing of products. In this example, additional products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list are list to the right of the preferred product from the preferred merchant. In another example, the preferred product from the preferred merchant is positioned in the center of the user interface121. In yet another example, the preferred product from the preferred merchant is highlighted, comprises stylized text, or comprises an icon or badge indicating that the product is preferred.

Continuing with the previous example,FIG. 8illustrates an example optimized display700of products on a user interface121of a user computing device120. In this example, the items from the shopping list400(size 1 diapers410a, milk410b, paper towels410c, laundry detergent410d, and hand soap410e) are displayed in a vertical list with one or more products corresponding to each item displayed in a horizontal list on each vertical line.

In an example, the user entered “laundry detergent”410don the shopping list. The product management computing system130determined Brand J laundry soap correspond to the fourth item410don the user's shopping list400. The product management computing system130also determined that Merchant X, Merchant W, and Merchant Z have laundry detergent that correspond to the fourth item410don the user's shopping list400.

Continuing with this example, the product management computing system130determined that the user does not have a preference for any brand of laundry detergent based on the user's purchase history and/or user preferences. The product management computing system130also determined that the user does not have a preference for a merchant or that preferred Merchant Y does not have sufficient inventory of a product that corresponds to the entry of laundry detergent410d.

The product management computing system130determines that the Brand A size 1 diapers sold by Merchant X were previously listed in the first position710a. Because Merchant X also has sufficient inventory of Brand J laundry detergent, the product management computing system130lists the Brand J laundry detergent sold by Merchant X in the first position810d. In this example, the user is likely to order from or visit Merchant X for a different preferred product. By highlight the other available product from Merchant X, the user is presented with the most convenient location to obtain a second non-preferred product. The product management computing system130lists the Brand J laundry detergent sold by Merchant W and Merchant Z in the second and third positions to the right of the first position810d. In an example, a user interface element760(for example an arrow) is presented if all of the products presented on the horizontal line are not visible on the user interface. The arrow allows the user to scroll and view the remaining products.

Returning toFIG. 6, the method280then proceeds to block680. In block680, the product management computing system130determines a price associated with each remaining product. In an example, the product management computing system130retrieves the prices queried in block270and determines the price for each remaining product that corresponds to an item on the shopping list.

In block690, the product management computing system130presents the least expensive product that corresponds to the item from the shopping list (as identified in block250) in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. An example highlighted position comprises a position on the left-most edge of the listing of products. In this example, additional products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list are list to the right of the preferred product from the preferred merchant. In another example, the preferred product from the preferred merchant is positioned in the center of the user interface121. In yet another example, the preferred product from the preferred merchant is highlighted, comprises stylized text, or comprises an icon or badge indicating that the product is preferred.

Continuing with the previous example,FIG. 8illustrates an example optimized display700of products on a user interface121of a user computing device120. In this example, the items from the shopping list400(size 1 diapers410a, milk410b, paper towels410c, laundry detergent410d, and hand soap410e) are displayed in a vertical list with one or more products corresponding to each item displayed in a horizontal list on each vertical line.

In an example, the user entered “hand soap”410eon the shopping list. The product management computing system130determined Brand K and Brand L hand soap correspond to the fifth item410eon the user's shopping list400. The product management computing system130also determined that Merchant Y, Merchant Z, and Merchant W have hand detergent that correspond to the fifth item410eon the user's shopping list400.

Continuing with this example, the product management computing system130determined that the user does not have a preference for any brand of laundry detergent based on the user's purchase history and/or user preferences. The product management computing system130also determined that the user does not have a preference for a merchant or that preferred Merchant Y does not have sufficient inventory of a product that corresponds to the entry of hand detergent410e. The product management computing system130also determined that the a product that corresponds to the item from the shopping list (as identified in block250) is not available from a merchant that has another product presented in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to a different item on the user's shopping list.

Because the product management computing system130determines that the price of Brand K hand soap from Merchant Y is $1.50, which is less expensive than the $2.00 Brand L hand soap from Merchant Z and the $2.50 Brand K hand soap from Merchant W, the product management computing system130lists the Brand K hand soap sold by Merchant Y in the first position810e. In this example, the user is likely to order or purchase the least expensive product corresponding to the desired item when a preferred item/merchant or a more convenient merchant is not available. The product management computing system130lists the Brand L hand soap sold by Merchant Z and the Brand K hand soap sold by Merchant W in the second and third positions to the right of the first position810e. In an example, a user interface element760(for example an arrow) is presented if all of the products presented on the horizontal line are not visible on the user interface. The arrow allows the user to scroll and view the remaining products.

Returning toFIG. 6, the method280then proceeds to block640. In block640, the product management computing system130determines whether there are additional items on the user's shopping list. If there are additional items on the user's shopping list, the method280repeats from block510inFIG. 5until all items on the user's shopping list have products optimally presented.

In an example, the user defines preferences or rules that define an order in which the product management computing system130assigns preferential products/merchants. For example, the user has a preference to purchase the least expensive items. In this example, the product management computing system130presents the least expensive product in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to each item on the user's shopping list. In another example, the user has a preference to travel to the fewest number of merchants to obtain items from the shopping list. In this example, the product management computing system130presents products from the same merchant in a highlighted position in a listing of products corresponding to each item on the shopping list. In yet another example, the user has two or more preferences that are applied in combination or in sequential order.

In another example, the product management computing system130applies the methods described inFIGS. 5-6to determine an order to present the remaining products in the listing of products corresponding to the item on the user's shopping list. For example, the product management computing system130applies the methods described inFIGS. 5-6to determine which product to present in the second position to the right of the first position, in the third position to the right of the second position, and so on.

Returning to block640inFIG. 6, if there are no additional items on the user's shopping list, the method280proceeds to block290inFIG. 2.

Returning toFIG. 2, in block290, the optimized listing of available products is displayed on the user interface121of the user computing device120. In an example, the optimized listing comprises two or more products shown with at least one of the two or more products shown in a highlighted display position. In this example, showing the product in the highlighted display position directs the user's attention to the product. In an example, the determination of the optimized listing is performed in real time or near real time so that once the user presses the user interface121element to shop the list, the optimized display is returned to the user computing device120.

Other Example Embodiments

FIG. 9depicts a computing machine2000and a module2050in accordance with certain example embodiments. The computing machine2000may correspond to any of the various computers, servers, mobile devices, embedded systems, or computing systems presented herein. The module2050may comprise one or more hardware or software elements configured to facilitate the computing machine2000in performing the various methods and processing functions presented herein. The computing machine2000may include various internal or attached components such as a processor2010, system bus2020, system memory2030, storage media2040, input/output interface2060, and a network interface2070for communicating with a network2080.

The computing machine2000may be implemented as a conventional computer system, an embedded controller, a laptop, a server, a mobile device, a smartphone, a set-top box, a kiosk, a router or other network node, a vehicular information system, one more processors associated with a television, a customized machine, any other hardware platform, or any combination or multiplicity thereof. The computing machine2000may be a distributed system configured to function using multiple computing machines interconnected via a data network or bus system.

The processor2010may be configured to execute code or instructions to perform the operations and functionality described herein, manage request flow and address mappings, and to perform calculations and generate commands. The processor2010may be configured to monitor and control the operation of the components in the computing machine2000. The processor2010may be a general purpose processor, a processor core, a multiprocessor, a reconfigurable processor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (“DSP”), an application specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), a graphics processing unit (“GPU”), a field programmable gate array (“FPGA”), a programmable logic device (“PLD”), a controller, a state machine, gated logic, discrete hardware components, any other processing unit, or any combination or multiplicity thereof. The processor2010may be a single processing unit, multiple processing units, a single processing core, multiple processing cores, special purpose processing cores, co-processors, or any combination thereof. According to certain embodiments, the processor2010along with other components of the computing machine2000may be a virtualized computing machine executing within one or more other computing machines.

The system memory2030may include non-volatile memories such as read-only memory (“ROM”), programmable read-only memory (“PROM”), erasable programmable read-only memory (“EPROM”), flash memory, or any other device capable of storing program instructions or data with or without applied power. The system memory2030may also include volatile memories such as random access memory (“RAM”), static random access memory (“SRAM”), dynamic random access memory (“DRAM”), and synchronous dynamic random access memory (“SDRAM”). Other types of RAM also may be used to implement the system memory2030. The system memory2030may be implemented using a single memory module or multiple memory modules. While the system memory2030is depicted as being part of the computing machine2000, one skilled in the art will recognize that the system memory2030may be separate from the computing machine2000without departing from the scope of the subject technology. It should also be appreciated that the system memory2030may include, or operate in conjunction with, a non-volatile storage device such as the storage media2040.

The storage media2040may include a hard disk, a floppy disk, a compact disc read only memory (“CD-ROM”), a digital versatile disc (“DVD”), a Blu-ray disc, a magnetic tape, a flash memory, other non-volatile memory device, a solid state drive (“SSD”), any magnetic storage device, any optical storage device, any electrical storage device, any semiconductor storage device, any physical-based storage device, any other data storage device, or any combination or multiplicity thereof. The storage media2040may store one or more operating systems, application programs and program modules such as module2050, data, or any other information. The storage media2040may be part of, or connected to, the computing machine2000. The storage media2040may also be part of one or more other computing machines that are in communication with the computing machine2000such as servers, database servers, cloud storage, network attached storage, and so forth.

The computing machine2000may operate in a networked environment using logical connections through the network interface2070to one or more other systems or computing machines across the network2080. The network2080may include wide area networks (WAN), local area networks (LAN), intranets, the Internet, wireless access networks, wired networks, mobile networks, telephone networks, optical networks, or combinations thereof. The network2080may be packet switched, circuit switched, of any topology, and may use any communication protocol. Communication links within the network2080may involve various digital or an analog communication media such as fiber optic cables, free-space optics, waveguides, electrical conductors, wireless links, antennas, radio-frequency communications, and so forth.

The processor2010may be connected to the other elements of the computing machine2000or the various peripherals discussed herein through the system bus2020. It should be appreciated that the system bus2020may be within the processor2010, outside the processor2010, or both. According to certain example embodiments, any of the processor2010, the other elements of the computing machine2000, or the various peripherals discussed herein may be integrated into a single device such as a system on chip (“SOC”), system on package (“SOP”), or ASIC device.

The example systems, methods, and acts described in the embodiments presented previously are illustrative, and, in alternative embodiments, certain acts can be performed in a different order, in parallel with one another, omitted entirely, and/or combined between different example embodiments, and/or certain additional acts can be performed, without departing from the scope and spirit of various embodiments. Accordingly, such alternative embodiments are included in the scope of the following claims, which are to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass such alternative embodiments.