System and method of providing recommendations

A method of providing recommendations is disclosed and includes receiving input from a visitor of an online site. The input indicates a request to receive data related to an offering from a member of a social network associated with the visitor. The offering is available for purchase via the online site. The method also includes sending a communication to the member of the social network in response to the request. The communication requests data related to the offering.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure is generally related to providing recommendations related to offerings available via an online site.

BACKGROUND

Products, services, subscriptions, and other offerings are available via online sites. Online sites can provide recommendations of similar or related products based on what other customers have purchased or viewed. Nonetheless, these generic recommendations may not be effective to persuade a visitor to the online site to make a purchase. For example, the use of generic recommendations can often produce lists of recommendations that are too long to be useful to the visitor. Hence, there is a need for an improved system and method of providing recommendations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A system to provide recommendations is disclosed and includes a server system including processing logic and memory accessible to the processing logic. The memory includes instructions executable by the processing logic to provide an online site adapted to offer an electronic catalog for sale and to receive input from a visitor indicating a request to receive data related to an offering from a member of a social network associated with the visitor (e.g., an “ask-a-friend” request). The memory also includes instructions executable by the processing logic to send a communication to the member of the social network in response to the request, where the communication requests data related to the offering.

In another particular embodiment, a system to provide recommendations is disclosed and includes a server system including processing logic and memory accessible to the processing logic. The memory includes instructions executable by the processing logic to provide an online site adapted to offer a product for sale and to receive input from a visitor indicating a request to receive data related to the product from an expert associated with the product. The memory includes instructions executable by the processing logic to send a communication to the expert in response to the request, where the communication requests data related to the product.

In another particular embodiment, a method of providing recommendations is disclosed and includes receiving input from a visitor of an online site. The input indicates a request to receive data related to an offering from a member of a social network associated with the visitor. The offering is available for purchase via the online site. The method also includes sending a communication to the member of the social network in response to the request. The communication requests data related to the offering.

In another particular embodiment, a computer-readable medium is disclosed having processor-readable instructions that are executable by processing logic to perform a method, where the method includes receiving input from a visitor via an online site, the input indicating a request to receive data related to a product from a plurality of members of a social network associated with the visitor; and sending a communication to each of the plurality of members in response to the request. Each communication requests data related to the product.

Referring toFIG. 1, a particular embodiment of a system to provide recommendations is illustrated and designated generally100. The system100includes a server system102that is adapted to provide an online site offering goods, services, subscriptions, or any combination thereof, via an Internet Protocol (IP) network104, such as the Internet. The IP network104can be accessible to various computers, such as a visitor computer106, an expert computer108, a computing device of a member of visitor's social network, such as the friend computer110, or any combination thereof. In an illustrative embodiment, the IP network104is accessible to one or more web-enabled mobile communication devices via the mobile phone network118. For example, the IP network104can be accessible to a friend phone112, an expert phone114, a customer phone116, or any combination thereof.

In a particular embodiment, the server system102is adapted to provide an online site via the IP network104. The online site offers an electronic catalog of products, services, subscriptions, or any combination thereof, to customers or other visitors. A visitor can register with the online site and create one or more social networks, each of which can include one or more members. When the visitor registers with the online site, the online site can prompt the visitor for contact information associated with one or more members of a social network that is to be associated with the visitor. Such contact information can include names or other identifications, e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, mobile phone numbers, IP addresses, other contact information, or any combination thereof. The contact information can be received from the visitor computer106, for example. In another embodiment, the server system is adapted to import the contact information from a contact list at the visitor computer106, from an address book or other contact list at the visitor phone116, from an online social networking site or other additional site provided by the IP network104, or any combination thereof.

A visitor can select a product, service or other offering via the online site. The server system102is adapted to provide a detail page, such as a product-detail page, in response to the selection. The detail page includes a selectable indicator of an option to receive data related to the product from a member of a visitor's social network (e.g., an “ask-a-friend” indicator). Examples of such detail pages are illustrated inFIGS. 10-14. The server system102is adapted to receive a selection of an ask-a-friend or similar indicator from a visitor via the product detail page. In response to the selection of the indicator, the server system102is adapted to identify at least one social network associated with the visitor and retrieve contact information, communication preferences, other data, or any combination thereof, related to members the social network(s) of the visitor. The server system102is adapted to send a communication regarding the product or other offering to one or more members of the social network(s) of the visitor. In one embodiment, the member(s) can be selected by the visitor via a graphical user interface (GUI), such as the GUI illustrated inFIG. 11.

The server system102is adapted to send communications to one or more communications devices associated with the member(s) of the visitor's social network(s), such as the friend computer110and the friend phone112. The communications can be sent via text message, e-mail message, instant messaging (IM) service, via interactive voice response (IVR) call, via other communication means, or any combination thereof. One or more of the communications can be sent according to communications preferences of one or more of the members.

The server system102is adapted to receive responsive data from the member(s) of the social network(s) to whom communications have been sent. Responsive data includes, for example, data indicating that the member does not wish to comment on the offering, data indicating that the member previously purchased the offering, data indicating that the member purchased a similar offering, data indicating that the member is interested in the offering, data indicating that the member is interested in a category of the offering, data indicating that the member is interested in a similar offering, data indicating that the member is interested in a related offering, data indicating that the member has previously purchased a related offering, data indicating that the member has previously commented on the offering, data indicating an opinion of the member about the offering, or any combination thereof.

The server system102is adapted to output the responsive data via the online site, for instance, via the detail page viewed by the visitor. In one embodiment, responsive data of one or more of the member(s) that is output to a visitor includes a rating pre-designated by the visitor. For example, a rating can indicate a level of trust associated with a member in general, with respect to a product category, with respect to other factors, or any combination thereof. The visitor can edit the ratings based on the responsive data. In another embodiment, the server system102is adapted to output behavioral data related to a member in addition to responsive data. Behavioral data includes, for examples, product purchases, product inquiries, product reviews, or any combination thereof.

The server system102is adapted to determine whether responsive data has been received from a member of a social network indicating that the member wishes not to receive future communications with respect to products, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, which are viewed by the visitor of the online site. The server system102is adapted to remove the member from the social network associated with the visitor in response to an opt-out request.

In an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, the server system102is adapted to send a polling message to each member of a social network of a customer or other visitor of the online site. For example, in response to a selection of an ask-a-friend indicator, the server system102can be adapted to send a communication to each member of a social network asking whether they have a favorable view of a product, service or subscription. The communication can indicate a polling period during which responses will be collected. The server system102is adapted to collect polling results and output the polling results to the visitor via the online site. The server system102is adapted to notify the visitor of an end of the polling period. The server system102can be adapted to output polling results to the visitor via e-mail, short messaging service (SMS), interactive voice response (IVR) system, instant messaging (IM) system, or other communication mode.

In a particular embodiment, the server system102is adapted to include with a detail page a selectable indicator of an option to receive data related to the product from an expert associated with the product (e.g., an “ask-an-expert” indicator). In response to a selection of the indicator, the server system is adapted to retrieve contact information, communications preferences, other data, or any combination thereof, corresponding to one or more experts associated with a product, service, subscription, or other offering being viewed by a visitor via the online site. The server system102is adapted to construct a communication and to send the communication to the expert(s). The server system102is adapted to send communications to the expert computer108, the expert phone114, or any combination thereof, according to communications preferences associated with each expert.

In one embodiment, server system102is adapted to receive a question from the visitor that is to be sent with a communication to the expert(s). The server system102is adapted to determine whether the expert has previously answered a similar question. If the question has been answered, the server system102is adapted to output the previous answer via the online site and not send the communication to the expert(s).

The server system102is also adapted to receive responsive data from an expert to whom a communication has been sent. Further, the server system102is adapted to output the responsive data via a detail page or other page of the online site. The server system102is adapted to receive ratings from a visitor with respect to the expert based at least partially on the responsive data. Ratings can be stored in association with expert data and can be output with future responsive data received from the expert and can be output to the visitor that designated the trust level or other rating.

Referring toFIG. 2, a second particular embodiment of a system to provide recommendations is illustrated and designated generally200. The system200includes a server system202that is adapted to provide an online site offering goods, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, via an Internet Protocol (IP) network244, such as the Internet. The IP network244can be accessible to various computers, such as a customer computer250, an expert computer248, a computing device of a member of a customer's social network, such as the friend computer246, or any combination thereof. In an illustrative embodiment, the IP network244is accessible to one or more web-enabled mobile communication devices via one or more mobile phone networks258. For example, the IP network244can be accessible to a friend phone252, an expert phone254, a customer phone256, or any combination thereof. In another illustrative embodiment, the server system202communicates with a public switched telephone network (PSTN)259via the IP network244.

In one embodiment, the server system202includes a single computer server, such as a web server. Alternatively, the server system202includes multiple servers that independently or redundantly include logic and memory adapted to provide one or more functions with respect to fulfilling electronic commerce-based transactions. The server system202includes processing logic204, such as one or more processors, and memory206that is accessible to the processing logic204, such as memory devices at one or more servers of the server system202. The server system202also includes at least one network interface208to facilitate communication between the server system202and the IP network244.

The memory206can include various modules210-242that are adapted to provide various functions of the server system202with respect to providing recommendations. The modules210-242can include processor-readable instructions that are executable by the processing logic204, such as instructions included in one or more applications, operating systems, or other computer programs. In other embodiments, the modules210-242include any combination of instructions and hardware logic. The modules210-242can be distributed independently or redundantly among memory at one or more servers of the server system202.

For example, the memory206includes a website module210that is executable by the processing logic204to provide an online site via the IP network244. The online site210offers an electronic catalog of products, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, to customers or other visitors. The memory206includes a catalog module212to store data related to the products, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, that are offered via the online site. The website module210is executable by the processing logic204to provide a search process via the online site, which allows visitors to search the data stored by the catalog module212and which returns one or more search results in response to a search.

The memory includes a social network database214to store social network information associated with various customers or other visitors that are registered with the online site. For example, when a visitor registers with the online site, the website module210is executable by the processing logic204to prompt the visitor for contact information associated with one or more members of a social network that is to be associated with the visitor. Such contact information can include names or other identifications, e-mail addresses, telephone numbers, mobile phone numbers, IP addresses, other contact information, or any combination thereof. The website module210is executable by the processing logic204to receive contact information that is entered via the customer computer250, for example. In another embodiment, the website module210is executable by the processing logic204to import the contact information from a contact list at the customer computer250, from an address book or other contact list at the customer phone256, from an online social networking site or other additional site provided by the IF network244, or any combination thereof. The social network database214can store one or more social networks associated with a visitor. In an illustrative embodiment, members of social networks can overlap. The social network database214can also store communications preferences of one or more members of a visitor's social network.

Further, the memory206includes a graphical user interface (GUI) module216that is executable by the processing logic204to provide various graphical user interfaces including interactive graphical elements via the online site. For example, the GUI module216can be executable by the processing logic204to provide a detail page, such as a product-detail page, via the online site in response to a selection of a product from search results or another page of the online site. The GUI module216is executable by the processing logic204to include with the detail page a selectable indicator of an option to receive data related to the product from a member of a visitor's social network (e.g., an “ask-a-friend” indicator). Examples of such detail pages are illustrated inFIGS. 10-14.

The GUT module216is executable by the processing logic204to receive a selection of an ask-a-friend or similar indicator from a visitor via the product detail page. The memory includes a query module218that is executable by the processing logic204to query the social network database214to retrieve contact information, communication preferences, other data, or any combination thereof, related to members of one or more social networks of the visitor. In one embodiment, the GUI module216is executable by the processing logic204to output a list of selectable members of one or more social networks associated with the visitor and to receive selections of one or more members to whom a communication regarding the product is to be sent. An example of such a GUI is illustrated inFIG. 11.

In a particular embodiment, the memory206includes a question module240that is executable by the processing logic204to prompt the visitor for a question to be submitted to the member(s) to whom a communication regarding the product is to be sent. The memory206includes an answer database242that stores answers received from such members. When a question is received from the visitor, the question module240is executable by the processing logic204to determine whether the answer database242stores an answer to the question from one or more of the members to whom a communication regarding the product is to be sent. Previously stored answers can be displayed via the product detail page.

The memory206includes a communication module219that is executable by the processing logic204to construct a communication regarding the product in response to a selection of the ask-a-friend indicator and to send the communication to one or more members of the social network(s) of the visitor, while observing communications preferences of one or more of the members. In an illustrative embodiment, the communication module219is executable by the processing logic204to construct a communication that includes selectable indicators or response options. In one embodiment, a question submitted by the visitor can be included in a communication. The communication module219or the question module240can be executable by the processing logic204to tag the communication, such that an answer to the question can be associated with the answering member and stored at the answer database for future use. An example of such a communication is illustrated inFIG. 15.

The memory206includes a text module220that is executable by the processing logic204to send communications to the friend phone252, or other device of a member of a social network, via a short messaging service (SMS) or other text messaging service. Further, the memory206includes an interactive voice response (IVR) module222that is executable by the processing logic204to send interactive voice communications to the friend phone252, or other device of a member of a social network. In addition, the memory206includes an e-mail module224that is executable by the processing logic204to send communications to the friend phone252, friend computer250, other device of a member of a social network, or any combination thereof, via electronic mail. Moreover, the memory206includes an instant messaging (IM) module226that is executable by the processing logic204to send communications to the friend phone252, friend computer250, other device of a member of a social network, or any combination thereof, via an IM service. In other embodiments, the server system202can be adapted to send communications to members of social networks via the public-switched telephone network259.

The memory206includes a response data module228that is executable by the processing logic204to receive responsive data from a member of a social network to whom a communication has been sent. The GUI module216is executable by the processing logic204to output the responsive data via the detail page or other GUI of the online site. In a particular embodiment, the memory206includes a feedback module230that is executable by the processing logic204to receive ratings from a visitor associated with the social network that includes the members whose responsive data is output via the online site. For example, the ratings can indicate a level of trust associated with a member in general, with respect to a product category, with respect to other factors, or any combination thereof. In another example, the feedback module230is executable by the processing logic204to determine a rating associated with a member based on a plurality of inputs from the visitor over time, such as inputs indicating whether a member's response was helpful or not helpful. In one embodiment, the feedback module230is executable by the processing logic204to designate a member of a social network as an expert with respect to a category of offering after a pre-defined number of positive inputs by the visitor, by one or more other visitors, or a combination thereof, with respect to offerings within the category. Ratings can be stored in association with member data at the social network database214and can be output with future responsive data received from the member and can be output to the visitor that designated the trust level or other rating.

In an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, the memory206includes a polling module232that is executable by the processing logic204to send a polling message to each member of a social network of a customer or other visitor of the online site. For example, in response to a selection of an ask-a-friend indicator, the polling module232is executable by the processing logic204to send a communication to each member of a social network asking whether they have a favorable view of a product, service, subscription or other offering. The communication can indicate a polling period during which responses will be collected. The polling module232is executable by the processing logic204to collect polling results and output the polling results to the visitor via the online site.

The memory206includes a notification module234that is executable by the processing logic204to notify the visitor of an end of a polling period. The notification module234can also be executable by the processing logic204to notify the members of the social network of the end of the polling period and that no further poll responses will be accepted. In addition, the notification module234can also be executable by the processing logic204to output polling results to the visitor via e-mail, SMS, IVR, IM or other communication mode.

The memory206includes an opt-out module236that is executable by the processing logic204to determine whether responsive data has been received from a member of a social network indicating that the member wishes not to receive future communications with respect to products, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, which are viewed by the visitor of the online site. The opt-out module236is executable by the processing logic204to remove the member from the social network associated with the visitor at the social network database214.

In a particular embodiment, the GUI module216is executable by the processing logic204to include with a detail page a selectable indicator of an option to receive data related to the product from an expert associated with the product (e.g., an “ask-an-expert” indicator). In response to a selection of the indicator, the query module218is executable by the processing logic204to query an expert database238to retrieve contact information, communications preferences, other data, or any combination thereof, corresponding to one or more experts associated with a product, service, subscription, or other offering being viewed by a visitor via the online site. In one example, an expert can be pre-designated, such as an expert associated with a vendor of an offering. In another example, the expert can be determined based on positive inputs from the visitor, from one or more other visitors, or a combination thereof. For instance, an individual may be associated with a social network of the visitor before being designated as an expert. The communication module219is executable by the processing logic204to construct a communication and to send the communication to the expert(s). The text module220, the IVR module222, the e-mail module224, and the IM module226, are executable by the processing logic204to send communications to the expert computer248, the expert phone254, or any combination thereof, according to communications preferences associated with each expert.

In one embodiment, the memory206includes a question module240that is executable by the processing logic204to receive a question from the visitor that is to be sent with a communication to the expert(s). The query module218is executable by the processing logic204to query an answer database242to determine whether the expert has previously answered a similar question. If the question has been answered, the GUI module216is executable by the processing logic to output the previous answer via the online site and not send the communication to the expert(s).

The response data module228is executable by the processing logic204to receive responsive data from an expert to whom a communication has been sent. The GUI module216is executable by the processing logic204to output the responsive data via the detail page or other GUI of the online site. The responsive data can be stored at the answer database242. In a particular embodiment, the feedback module230is executable by the processing logic204to receive ratings from a visitor with respect to the expert based at least partially on the responsive data. Ratings can be stored in association with expert data at the expert database238and can be output with future responsive data received from the expert and can be output to the visitor that designated the trust level or other rating.

Referring toFIG. 3, a particular embodiment of a method of providing recommendations is illustrated. At block300, a server system provides an online site to a visitor, such as a customer, via a computing device, mobile phone, or other device. The online site provides a catalog of goods, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, for purchase. Moving to block302, the server system receives a selection of an offering from the visitor via the online site. Proceeding to block304, the server system displays a detail page related to the offering via the online site.

Continuing to block306, the server system receives input indicating a request for data related to the offering from one or more members of a social network associated with the visitor. In one embodiment, the input includes a selection of an “ask-a-friend” indicator or a similar selectable indicator provided with the detail page. Advancing to block308, a list, or other graphical presentation, identifying members of at least one social network is displayed via the online site. The identifications of the members are selectable. At block310, the server system receives selections of one or more members from the list.

Moving to block312, the server system determines communications preferences associated with one or more of the selected member(s). For instance, some members may prefer to be contacted via e-mail, some via text message, others via instant messaging, others by phone call, and still others may have no communications preferences. Proceeding to block314, the server system sends a communication to each selected member, according to communications preferences associated with the selected member. An example embodiment of such a communication is illustrated inFIG. 15.

Continuing to block316, the server system receives responsive data from one or more member to whom a communication was sent. Advancing to decision318, the server system determines whether responsive data from any member includes an opt-out request. If the server system does not receive an opt-out request, the method moves to block322. On the other hand, if the server system receives an opt-out request, the method moves to block320, and the server system disassociates the member making the request from future communications regarding the category of the offering. The method then proceeds to block322.

At block322, the server system collects and organizes the responsive data. For example, the server system may organize responsive data according to which members have purchased the offering and which members have not purchased the offering. Continuing to block324, the server system outputs the organized data to the visitor via the detail page or another graphical interface of the online site. The method terminates at326.

Referring toFIG. 4, a second particular embodiment of a method of providing recommendations is illustrated. At block400, a server system provides an online site to a visitor. The online site provides a catalog of goods, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, for purchase. Moving to block402, the server system receives registration information from the visitor. Proceeding to block404, the server system prompts the visitor for data related to one or more social networks that are to be associated with the visitor. For instance, the server system prompts the visitor for contact information of one or more members that are to be associated with the social network(s).

Continuing to decision406, the server system determines whether it has received a command to import social network data from another source, such as a computing device or mobile phone of the visitor, or from another online site, such as a social networking site. If the server system has received a command to import social network data from another source, the method advances to block408, and the server system imports the social network data from another online site or a visitor device. The method then moves to block412. Conversely, if the server system does not receive a command to import social network data from another source, the method advances to block410, and the server system receives the social network from the visitor via a social network setup process provided via the online site. The method then moves to block412.

Moving to block412, the server system receives a selection of an offering, such as a product, from the visitor via the online site. Proceeding to block414, the server system displays a product detail page via the online site. Continuing to block416, the server system receives input indicating a selection of an “ask-a-friend” indicator or a similar selectable indicator provided with the product detail page. Advancing to block418, the server system sends a communication to one or more members of a social network associated with the visitor. An example embodiment of such a communication is illustrated inFIG. 15.

Continuing to block420, the server system receives responsive data from one or more members to whom a communication was sent. At block422, the server system outputs the responsive data via the detail page or another graphical interface of the online site. Moving to decision424, the server system determines whether it is to edit rating information associated with one or more members whose responsive data has been output via the product detail page. For instance, the server system can determine whether it has received a request from the visitor to designate ratings. Alternatively, the server system can determine whether it has received input from the visitor indicating whether responsive data from a particular member was helpful or not helpful, whereupon the server system can automatically adjust a rating associated with the particular member. If the server system determines that it is to edit rating information, the method proceeds to block426, and the server system stores the re-designated or re-calculated rating information. The method terminates at428.

Referring toFIG. 5, a third particular embodiment of a method of providing recommendations is illustrated. At block500, a server system provides an online site to a visitor, such as a customer or a potential customer, via a computing device, mobile phone, or other device. The online site provides a catalog of goods, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, for purchase. Moving to block502, the server system receives a selection of an offering, such as a product, from the visitor via the online site. Proceeding to block504, the server system displays a product detail page via the online site.

Continuing to block506, the server system receives input indicating a request for data related to the offering from one or more members of a social network associated with the visitor. In one embodiment, the input includes a selection of an “ask-a-friend” indicator or a similar selectable indicator provided with the detail page. Advancing to block508, the server system sends a polling message to members of at least one social network associated with the visitor. In one embodiment, the polling message asks each member whether he or she has a favorable or unfavorable view of the product. In another embodiment, the polling message asks each member whether he or she has or has not purchased the product.

Continuing to block510, the server system receives responsive data from one or more member to whom a communication was sent. Advancing to decision512, the server system determines whether a polling period has ended. When the polling period ends, the method moves to block514, and the server system collects and organizes the responsive data. For example, the server system may organize responsive data according to which members have purchased the offering and which members have not purchased the offering. Continuing to block516, the server system notifies the visitor that the polling data is ready to view. For instance, if the visitor has logged off the online site, the server system can send an e-mail or other notification to the visitor indicating that the polling period has ended or that polling results are complete. Proceeding to block518, the server system outputs the polling results to the visitor. The polling results can be output via the online site if the visitor has waited for the results, or when the visitor logs back in. In other embodiments, the polling results can be output to the visitor with the notification sent at516. The method terminates at520.

Referring toFIG. 6, a fourth particular embodiment of a method of providing recommendations is illustrated. At block600, a server system provides an online site to a visitor via a web-enabled phone. The online site provides a catalog of goods, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, for purchase. Moving to block602, the server system receives registration from the visitor via the online site. Proceeding to block604, the server system imports a contact list or phone book from the web-enabled phone and stores the data as social network data associated with the visitor.

Continuing to block606, the server system receives a selection of an offering, such as a product, from the visitor via the online site. Advancing to block608, the server system sends a product detail page to the web-enabled phone. Continuing to block610, the server system receives input indicating a selection of an “ask-a-friend” indicator or a similar selectable indicator provided with the product detail page.

Advancing to decision612, the server system determines whether it is to communicate with a member of the social network of the visitor via the web-enabled visitor phone. If so, the method moves to block614, and the server system can send an instruction to the web-enabled phone to dial the member, such that the visitor can speak with the member directly about the product. Whereas, if the server system is not to communicate via the visitor phone, the server system sends a communication to one or more members of the social network associated with the visitor at block616. In one embodiment, the communication includes a message indicating the product and asking the member(s) to contact the visitor phone via a call, an e-mail, a text message, or any combination thereof. The method terminates at618.

Referring toFIG. 7, a fifth particular embodiment of a method of providing recommendations is illustrated. At block700, a server system provides an online site to a visitor, such as a customer, via a computing device, mobile phone, or other device. The online site provides a catalog of goods, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, for purchase. Moving to block702, the server system receives a selection of an offering, such as a product, from the visitor via the online site. Proceeding to block704, the server system displays a product detail page via the online site.

Continuing to block706, the server system receives input indicating a request for data related to the offering from one or more members associated with a social network of the visitor. In one embodiment, the input includes a selection of an “ask-a-friend” indicator or a similar selectable indicator provided with the detail page. Advancing to block708, the server system prompts the visitor and receives a question regarding the product.

At block710, the server system checks a database for a previous answer given by each member for a same or similar question. Moving to decision node712, the server system determines whether it has found one or more previous answers. If a previous answer has been found, the method proceeds to block714, upon which the server system retrieves the previous answer and outputs the previous answer via the online site. Continuing to decision node715, the server system determines whether there are one or more other members for whom previous answers were not found. If the server system determines that there are no such other members, the method terminates at724.

Returning to decision node712, if no previous answer is found for at least one member, the method proceeds to block716, and the server system sends a communication to the member(s) for whom previous answers have not been found. Continuing to block718, the server system receives responsive data from one or more members to whom a communication was sent. Advancing to block720, the server system collects and organizes the responsive data. For example, the server system may organize responsive data according to which members have a favorable opinion and which members have an unfavorable opinion with respect to the product. At block722, the server system outputs the organized data to the visitor via the detail page or another graphical interface of the online site. The method terminates at724.

Referring toFIG. 8, a fifth particular embodiment of a method of providing recommendations is illustrated. At block800, a server system provides an online site to a visitor, such as a customer, via a computing device, mobile phone, or other device. The online site provides a catalog of goods, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, for purchase. Moving to block802, the server system receives a selection of an offering, such as a product, from the visitor via the online site. Proceeding to block804, the server system displays a product detail page via the online site.

Continuing to block806, the server system receives input indicating a request for data related to the offering from one or more experts associated with the product or with a category of the product. In one embodiment, the input includes a selection of an “ask-an-expert” indicator or a similar selectable indicator provided with the detail page. Advancing to block808, the server system determines communications preferences associated with the expert(s). For instance, some experts may prefer to be contacted via e-mail, some via text message, others via instant messaging, others by phone call, and still others may have no communications preferences. Proceeding to block810, the server system sends a communication to each expert, according to communications preferences associated with the expert.

Continuing to block812, the server system receives responsive data from one or more experts to whom a communication was sent. Advancing to block814, the server system collects and organizes the responsive data. For example, the server system may organize responsive data according to which experts have a favorable opinion and which experts have an unfavorable opinion with respect to the product. At block816, the server system outputs the organized data to the visitor via the detail page or another graphical interface of the online site. The method terminates at818.

Referring toFIG. 9, a sixth particular embodiment of a method of providing recommendations is illustrated. At block900, a server system provides an online site to a visitor, such as a customer, via a computing device, mobile phone, or other device of the customer. The online site provides a catalog of goods, services, subscriptions, other offerings, or any combination thereof, for purchase. Moving to block902, the server system receives a selection of an offering, such as a product, from the visitor via the online site. Proceeding to block904, the server system displays a product detail page via the online site.

Continuing to block906, the server system receives input indicating a request for data related to the offering from one or more experts associated with the product or with a category of the product. In one embodiment, the input includes a selection of an “ask-an-expert” indicator or a similar selectable indicator provided with the detail page. Advancing to block908, the server system prompts the visitor and receives a question regarding the product.

At block910, the server system checks a database for a previous answer given by the expert for a same or similar question. Moving to decision node912, the server system determines whether it has found a previous answer. If a previous answer has been found, the method proceeds to block914, upon which the server system retrieves the previous answer and outputs the previous answer via the online site. On the other hand, if no previous answer is found, the method proceeds to block916, and the server system sends a communication to one or more experts.

Continuing to block918, the server system receives responsive data from one or more experts to whom a communication was sent. Advancing to block920, the server system collects and organizes the responsive data. For example, the server system may organize responsive data according to which experts have a favorable opinion and which experts have an unfavorable opinion with respect to the product. At block922, the server system outputs the organized data to the visitor via the detail page or another graphical interface of the online site. The method terminates at924.

In some embodiments, the methods disclosed herein may be performed as described. In other embodiments, certain aspects of the methods may be performed in alternate sequences or simultaneously. In addition, registration, social network setup, selection of an offering, or any combination thereof, may occur in a single session or in different sessions with the online site. Further, while the methods are largely described with reference to products, the methods may be applied to products, services, subscriptions, other online offerings, or any combination thereof.

Referring toFIG. 10, a particular embodiment of a graphical user interface (GUI) to provide recommendations is illustrated and designated generally1000. The GUI1000includes a detail page related to a product1002. The detail page includes an “ask-a-friend” indicator1004, an “ask-an-expert” indicator1006, or any combination thereof. In an illustrative embodiment, the GUI includes one or more images1008associated with the product1002; unfiltered recommendations1010, such as recommendations based on products purchased by other customers that viewed the product1002; and technical details or specifications1012related to the product1002.

The ask-a-friend indicator1004is selectable to send communications to one or more members of a social network associated with a visitor viewing the GUI1000and to receive responsive data from the member(s) via the GUI1000. The ask-an-expert indicator1006is selectable to send communications to one or more experts associated with the product1002(or a category of the product1002) and to receive responsive data from the expert(s) via the GUI1000. In one embodiment, the expert(s) may include a representative of a vendor associated with the product1002.

Referring toFIG. 11, a second particular embodiment of a graphical user interface (GUI) to provide recommendations is illustrated and designated generally1100. The GUI1100includes a detail page related to a product1002. The detail page includes an “ask-a-friend” indicator1004, an “ask-an-expert” indicator1006, or any combination thereof. In an illustrative embodiment, the GUI1100includes one or more images1008associated with the product1002.

In an illustrative embodiment, the ask-a-friend indicator1004is selectable to send communications to one or more members of a social network associated with a visitor viewing the GUI1100and to receive responsive data from the member(s) via the GUI1100. In response to a selection of the ask-a-friend indicator1004, the GUI1100may display a list of members associated with the social network. The list includes a plurality of selectable identifications1110of the members. A rating1112may be displayed in conjunction with one or more of the member identifications1110. In a particular, non-limiting embodiment, selectable indicators1114of options to call a specific member of the social network can be displayed. For instance, the selectable indicator1114can be selectable to instruct a web-enabled phone of the visitor to dial a contact number of the member. The GUI1100includes a submit indicator1116, or similar indicator, that is selectable to indicate that the visitor would like communications to be sent to the selected members. The GUI1100also includes a cancel indicator1118, or similar indicator, that is selectable to indicate that the visitor no longer wishes to contact a member of the social network.

The ask-an-expert indicator1006is selectable to send communications to one or more experts associated with the product1002(or a category of the product1002) and to receive responsive data from the expert(s) via the GUI1100. In one embodiment, the expert(s) may include a representative of a vendor associated with the product1002. In an illustrative embodiment, a list of selectable experts may be displayed via the GUI1100.

Referring toFIG. 12, a third particular embodiment of a graphical user interface (GUI) to provide recommendations is illustrated and designated generally1200. The GUI1200includes a detail page related to a product1002. The detail page includes an “ask-a-friend” indicator1004, an “ask-an-expert” indicator1006, or any combination thereof. In an illustrative embodiment, the GUI includes one or more images1008associated with the product1002.

In an illustrative embodiment, the ask-a-friend indicator1004is selectable to send communications to one or more members of a social network associated with a visitor viewing the GUI1200and to receive responsive data from the member(s) via the GUI1200. The GUI1200may display responsive data from the members of the social network to whom communications were sent. The responsive data can be organized into categories, such as responsive data from members who bought the product1210and responsive data from members who did not buy the product1212. Responsive data can include an identification of the member1214and a message indicating the responsive data received1216.

The ask-an-expert indicator1006is selectable to send communications to one or more experts associated with the product1002(or a category of the product1002) and to receive responsive data from the expert(s) via the GUI1200. In one embodiment, the expert(s) may include a representative of a vendor associated with the product1002.

Referring toFIG. 13, a fourth particular embodiment of a graphical user interface (GUI) to provide recommendations is illustrated and designated generally1300. The GUI1300includes a detail page related to a product1002. The detail page includes an “ask-a-friend” indicator1004, an “ask-an-expert” indicator1006, or any combination thereof. In an illustrative embodiment, the GUI includes one or more images1008associated with the product1002.

In an illustrative embodiment, the ask-a-friend indicator1004is selectable to send communications to one or more members of a social network associated with a visitor viewing the GUI1300and to receive responsive data from the member(s) via the GUI1300. The ask-an-expert indicator1006is selectable to send communications to one or more experts associated with the product1002(or a category of the product1002) and to receive responsive data from the expert(s) via the GUI1300. In one embodiment, the expert(s) may include a representative of a vendor associated with the product1002.

In response to a selection of the ask-an-expert button1006, the GUI1300can provide a question region1312. The question region1312identifies an expert1314associated with the product1002. The question region1312also includes a text box1316in which the visitor can input a question to be answered by the expert. The question region1312also includes one or more indicators1318that are selectable to submit the question, cancel the ask-an-expert function, execute other functions, or any combination thereof.

Referring toFIG. 14, a fifth particular embodiment of a graphical user interface (GUI) to provide recommendations is illustrated and designated generally1400. The GUI1400includes a detail page related to a product1002. The detail page includes an “ask-a-friend” indicator1004, an “ask-an-expert” indicator1006, or any combination thereof. In an illustrative embodiment, the GUI includes one or more images1008associated with the product1002.

In an illustrative embodiment, the ask-a-friend indicator1004is selectable to send communications to one or more members of a social network associated with a visitor viewing the GUI1400and to receive responsive data from the member(s) via the GUI1400. The ask-an-expert indicator1006is selectable to send communications to one or more experts associated with the product1002(or a category of the product1002) and to receive responsive data from the expert(s) via the GUI1400. In one embodiment, the expert(s) may include a representative of a vendor associated with the product1002.

In response to a selection of the ask-an-expert button1006, the GUI1400can provide an answer region1412. The answer region1412identifies an expert1414associated with the product1002. The answer region1412also includes an answer1416to a question sent to the expert by the visitor via the GUI1400, as illustrated inFIG. 13.

FIG. 15is a diagram of a sixth particular embodiment of a graphical user interface (GUI) to provide recommendations. The GUI is an example of a communication1500that is sent to a member of a social network associated with a visitor to an online site, in response to the visitor selecting an ask-a-friend indicator, such as the indicator1004illustrated inFIGS. 10-14. The communication1500includes a plurality of selectable responses1502regarding a product, service, subscription, or other offering at the online site. At least one of the selectable responses1502can include a field1504to input additional information when the selectable response1502is selected. The communication1500also includes a text box1506to input an opinion or other message to be output to the visitor of the online site.

In conjunction with the configuration of structure described herein, a system and method of providing recommendations are provided, which allow a visitor to an online site to receive opinions of social network members or experts, with respect to an offering that is available for purchase via the online site. In one embodiment, such opinions can be obtained in response to each selection of an ask-a-friend or ask-an-expert indicator. These real-time or near-real-time opinions can provide greater utility to the visitor than stock responses, reviews or recommendations, as opinions about a product, for instance, may change over time. Additionally, the visitor can obtain opinions from friends and experts that the visitor believes to have actual knowledge about a category of products or other offerings.