WO2012079019A2

WO2012079019A2 - Innovation marketplace systems

Info

Publication number: WO2012079019A2
Application number: PCT/US2011/064232
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bart E. Steiner
Original assignee: Bulbstorm Inc
Current assignee: Bulbstorm Inc
Priority date: 2010-12-10
Filing date: 2011-12-09
Publication date: 2012-06-14
Anticipated expiration: 2013-06-10
Also published as: WO2012079019A3

Abstract

This invention relates to a ready system for providing secure innovation-maturation marketplace systems that increase innovation-maturation efficiencies while safely exposing innovative concepts to expert-ranking information, and while providing expert-innovation rankers with opportunities to enhance and monetize their innovation ranking-credentials.

Description

INNOVATION MARKETPLACE SYSTEMS

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION^]

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application to entitled "INNOVATION MARKETPLACE SYSTEM," serial number 61/422,021, filed December 10,

2010, now pending, and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application to entitled "INNOVATION MARKETPLACE SYSTEM," serial number 61/440,747, filed February 8,

2011, now pending, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated entirely herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] This invention relates to improved innovation marketplace systems. More particularly, this invention relates to a ready system for providing innovation-maturation marketplaces. Further, importantly, this invention relates to providing a ready enabling system for innovation-maturation marketplaces that decrease innovation-maturation time -periods by providing quality, safe, exposure of innovative concepts, maturing these innovative concepts, and offering them into broader marketplaces. Additionally, importantly, this invention relates to a ready system for providing expert-ranking information. Still further, this invention relates to a ready system for providing and monetizing innovation ranking-credentials associated with innovation rankers.

[0003] Presently, innovation-maturation marketplace systems do not comprise, for example, innovation-maturation marketplace systems providing quality, safe, exposure of innovative concepts, maturing these innovative concepts, and offering them into broader marketplaces. In addition, presently, innovation marketplace systems do not comprise, for example, a system for providing expert-ranking information. Additionally, present innovation marketplace systems do not comprise, for example, a system for providing and monetizing innovation ranking-credentials associated with innovation rankers. Further, presently, innovation marketplace systems do not allow for innovator control of the innovation.

[0004] Thus, a need exists for innovation-maturation marketplace systems that decrease innovation-maturation time -periods while safely exposing innovative concepts to expert-ranking information, and while providing expert-innovation rankers with opportunities to enhance and monetize their innovation ranking-credentials, while leaving control of the innovation with the innovator.

Docket No. BULB.14006 1 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a computer system, relating to at least one Internet based website primarily relating to serving users having skills, knowledge and/or resources relating to creation, development, protection, marketing, and/or monetization of inventions, comprising: access computer interface means for providing access to such computer system by such users; receiver computer interface means for receiving digital information, from such users, relating to at least one invention; invention computer storage means for assisting storing digital information relating to a plurality of such at least one inventions; and, privacy computer processor means for assisting custom control of privacy relating to such at least one invention on behalf of each such user owning such at least one invention; wherein such privacy computer processor means comprises selectable-level computer processor means for assisting owner-user-selecting of at least one privacy level; and wherein such at least one invention may be controllably shared by each such user with others at such at least one level of privacy.

[0006] Moreover, it provides such a computer system wherein such privacy computer processor means further comprises information masking computer processor means for masking at least one user-selected portion of such digital information from view while disclosing the existence of such at least one user-selected portion of such digital information. Additionally, it provides such a computer system further comprising privacy contract computer processor means for assisting establishing at least one privacy contract relating to such masked at least one portion of such digital information. Also, it provides such a computer system wherein such privacy contract computer processor means comprises user-unmasking-request computer processor means for assisting requesting unmasking of masked such at least one portion of such digital information.

[0007] In addition, it provides such a computer system wherein such privacy contract computer processor means further comprises owning-user privacy contract selecting computer processor means for assisting owner-user-selecting at least one privacy contract. And, it provides such a computer system wherein such owning-user privacy contract selecting computer processor means comprises custom privacy contract receiving computer processor means for receiving at least one custom privacy contract. Further, it provides such a computer system wherein such privacy contract computer processor means further comprises user-selectable unmasking-request accepting computer processor means for assisting accepting unmasking requests of such masked at least one portion of such digital information.

Docket No. BULB.14006 2 [0008] Even further, it provides such a computer system further comprising privacy-contract- recording computer processor means for recording acceptance of such at least one privacy contract. Moreover, it provides such a computer system wherein such privacy-contract- recording computer processor means further comprises masked information access recording computer processor means for recording access to such masked at least one portion of such digital information. Additionally, it provides such a computer system wherein such privacy computer processor means further comprises secure encrypting computer processor means for securely encrypting transmissions of such digital information.

[0009] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a computer system, relating to at least one Internet based website primarily relating to serving users having skills, knowledge and/or resources relating to creation, development, protection, marketing, and/or monetization of inventions, comprising: at least one access computer interface structured and arranged to provide access to such computer system by such users; at least one receiver computer interface structured and arranged to receive digital information, from such users, relating to at least one invention; at least one invention computer storage structured and arranged to assist storing digital information relating to a plurality of such at least one inventions; and at least one privacy computer processor structured and arranged to assist custom control of privacy relating to such at least one invention on behalf of each such user owning such at least one invention; wherein such at least one privacy computer processor comprises at least one selectable-level computer processor structured and arranged to assist owner-user-selecting of at least one privacy level; and wherein such at least one invention may be controllably shared by each such user with others at such at least one level of privacy.

[0010] Also, it provides such a computer system wherein such at least one privacy computer processor further comprises at least one information masking computer processor structured and arranged to mask at least one user-selected portion of such digital information from view while disclosing the existence of such at least one user-selected portion of such digital information. In addition, it provides such a computer system further comprising at least one privacy contract computer processor structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one privacy contract relating to such at least one user-selected portion of such digital information.

[0011] And, it provides such a computer system wherein such at least one privacy contract computer processor comprises at least one user-unmasking-request computer processor structured and arranged to assist requesting unmasking of masked such at least one user-selected portion of such digital information. Further, it provides such a computer system wherein such at least one privacy contract computer processor further comprises at least one owning-user-

Docket No. BULB.14006 3 privacy-contract-selecting computer processor structured and arranged to assist owner-user- selecting at least one privacy contract. Even further, it provides such a computer system wherein such at least one owning-user-privacy-contract-selecting computer processor comprises at least one custom-privacy-contract-receiving computer processor structured and arranged to receive at least one custom privacy contract.

[0012] Moreover, it provides such a computer system wherein such at least one privacy contract computer processor further comprises at least one user-selectable unmasking-request accepting computer processor structured and arranged to assist accepting unmasking requests of such masked at least one user-selected portion of such digital information. Additionally, it provides such a computer system further comprising at least one privacy-contract-recording computer processor structured and arranged to record acceptance of such at least one privacy contract.

[0013] Also, it provides such a computer system wherein such at least one privacy-contract- recording computer processor further comprises at least one masked information access recording computer processor structured and arranged to record access to such masked at least one user-selected portion of such digital information. In addition, it provides such a computer system wherein such at least one privacy computer processor further comprises at least one secure encrypting computer processor structured and arranged to securely encrypt transmissions of such digital information.

[0014] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a computer method, relating to at least one Internet based website primarily relating to at least one computer system serving users having skills, knowledge and/or resources relating to creation, development, protection, marketing, and/or monetization of inventions, comprising the steps of: providing access to such at least one computer system by such users; receiving digital information, from such users, relating to at least one invention; assisting storing digital information relating to a plurality of such at least one inventions; and assisting custom control of privacy relating to such at least one invention on behalf of each such user owning such at least one invention; wherein such step of assisting custom control comprises assisting owner-user- selecting of at least one privacy level; and wherein such at least one invention may be controllably shared by each such user with others at such at least one level of privacy.

[0015] And, it provides such a computer method wherein such step of assisting custom control further comprises masking at least one user-selected portion of such digital information from view while disclosing the existence of such at least one user-selected portion of such digital information. Further, it provides such a computer method further comprising the step of

Docket No. BULB.14006 4 assisting establishing at least one privacy contract relating to such masked at least one portion of such digital information. Even further, it provides such a computer method wherein such step of assisting custom control comprises assisting requesting unmasking of masked such at least one portion of such digital information.

[0016] Even further, it provides such a computer method wherein such step of assisting custom control further comprises assisting owner-user-selecting at least one privacy contract. Even further, it provides such a computer method wherein such step of assisting owner-user- selecting comprises receiving at least one custom privacy contract. Even further, it provides such a computer method wherein such step of assisting custom control further comprises assisting accepting unmasking requests of such masked at least one portion of such digital information. Even further, it provides such a computer method further comprising the step of recording acceptance of such at least one privacy contract.

[0017] Even further, it provides such a computer method recording access to such masked at least one portion of such digital information. Even further, it provides such a computer method wherein such step of assisting custom control further comprises secure encrypting computer processor means for securely encrypting transmissions of such digital information.

[0018] In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a system, relating to leveraging at least one internet social network in developing at least one idea relating to at least one commercial offering of at least one commercial entity of a plurality of commercial entities, comprising: at least one internet-social-network member portal structured and arranged to provide at least one member portal open to members of the at least one internet social network; and at least one commercial-entity portal structured and arranged to provide at least one commercial-entity portal open to the plurality of commercial entities to solicit development of the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering; wherein such at least one commercial-entity portal comprises at least one solicitation setup computer interface structured and arranged to assist setup of at least one solicitation to contribute to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity;

wherein such at least one internet-social-network member portal comprises at least one presenter structured and arranged to present at least one plurality of such at least one solicitation from the plurality of commercial entities to members of the at least one internet social network; wherein such internet-social-network portal further comprises at least one participation contribution collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network; wherein such at least one commercial-entity

Docket No. BULB.14006 5 portal further comprises at least one participation contribution deliverer computer interface structured and arranged to deliver such at least one participation contribution of at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network relating to such at least one solicitation of the at least one commercial entity; and wherein the plurality of commercial entities each receive leveraging of the at least one internet social network in developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of each commercial entity respectively.

[0019] Moreover, it provides such a system further comprising at least one market survey computer processor structured and arranged to market-survey the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity. Additionally, it provides such a system further comprising at least one incentivizer computer processor structured and arranged to incentivize participation of the members of the at least one internet social network in such at least one solicitation to develop the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

[0020] Also, it provides such a system further comprising at least one market survey computer processor structured and arranged to market-survey the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity. In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one incentivizer computer processor comprises: at least one incentive establisher computer interface structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; at least one participation tracker computer processor structured and arranged to track such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and at least one incentive redemption computer processor structured and arranged to assist each such participating member to redeem such at least one incentive according to such participation contributions made by such

participating member.

[0021] And, it provides such a system further comprising at least one market survey computer processor structured and arranged to market-survey the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

Docket No. BULB.14006 6 Further, it provides such a systems wherein such at least one incentive establisher computer interface comprises at least one social incentive establisher computer interface structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one social incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

[0022] Even further, it provides such a systems wherein such at least one social incentive establisher computer interface comprises at least one social cooperation establisher computer interface structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one cooperation offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at least one participation tracker computer processor comprises at least one participation point tracker computer processor structured and arranged to track at least one plurality of participation points associated with such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

[0023] Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at least one internet-social- network member portal further comprises at least one idea competition generator structured and arranged to generate competition between at least two of such at least one participation contribution. Also, it provides such a system wherein such at least one idea competition generator comprises at least one contribution rating computer processor structured and arranged to assist rating of such at least one participation contribution by such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network. In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one internet-social-network member portal further comprises at least one participation competition generator structured and arranged to generate competition between such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network.

[0024] And, it provides such a system wherein such at least one participation competition generator comprises at least one participation ranking computer processor structured and arranged to rank, according to value of participation, contributions made by each such at least one participating member. Further, it provides such a system further comprising at least one authentication sharing computer processor structured and arranged to share social -network-user- authentication of the at least one internet social network with such at least one internet-social-

Docket No. BULB.14006 7 network member portal and such at least one commercial-entity portal. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises: at least one administration rights assignor computer processor structured and arranged to assist assigning administration rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one administration member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and at least one administrator rights associator computer processor structured and arranged to associate such administration rights to such user-authentication of such at least one administration member.

[0025] Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at least one administration rights assignor computer processor comprises: at least one moderator rights assignor computer processor structured and arranged to assist assigning moderation rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one moderator member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and at least one moderator rights associator computer processor structured and arranged to associate such moderator rights to such user-authentication of such at least one moderator member. Additionally, it provides such a system further comprising: at least one solicitation template creation portal structured and arranged to provide at least one solicitation template creation portal open to at least one template creator member from the members of the at least one internet social network; wherein such at least one solicitation template creation portal comprises at least one solicitation template creation computer interface structured and arranged to create at least one solicitation template; and wherein such at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises at least one solicitation template selector structured and arranged to assist selecting such at least one solicitation template to use in such at least one solicitation on such at least one internet-social-network member portal.

[0026] Also, it provides such a system further comprising at least one function modularizer computer processor structured and arranged to modularize at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation in such at least one solicitation template to process each such at least one processing function within at least one function module. In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one solicitation template creation computer interface comprises: at least one template module selector computer processor structured and arranged to assist selecting by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module to include in such at least one solicitation template; at least one template module locator computer processor structured and arranged to assist locating by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module in such at least one solicitation template; at least one template-module

Docket No. BULB.14006 8 nesting computer processor structured and arranged to assist nesting such at least one function module inside another such at least one function module.

[0027] And, it provides such a system wherein such at least one function modularizer computer processor comprises at least one recursive function computer processor structured and arranged to recursively process such at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation while increasing at least one processing scope to include at least one parent-nesting function module on each recursion until all required data to complete such at least one processing function is available within such at least one processing scope. Further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one presenter comprises at least one audience targeter structured and arranged to target at least one audience selected by the at least one commercial entity from among the members of the at least one internet social network. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one solicitation setup computer interface comprises at least one solicitation branding customizer computer interface structured and arranged to assist brand-customizing of such at least one solicitation with at least one brand of the at least one commercial entity.

[0028] Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at least one participation contribution collector computer interface comprises at least one comment collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one comment relating to such at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at least one participation contribution collector computer interface comprises at least one abuse report collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one abuse report relating to such at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network. Also, it provides such a system wherein such at least one participation contribution collector computer interface comprises at least one rating collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one rating relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network.

[0029] In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one participation contribution collector computer interface comprises at least one voting collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one voting relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network. And, it provides such a system wherein such at least one participation contribution

Docket No. BULB.14006 9 collector computer interface comprises at least one contribution collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one video contribution relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network.

[0030] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a computer implemented method, relating to leveraging at least one internet social network in developing at least one idea relating to at least one commercial offering of at least one commercial entity of a plurality of commercial entities, comprising the steps of: providing at least one member portal open to members of the at least one internet social network; providing at least one commercial-entity portal open to the plurality of commercial entities to solicit development of the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering; wherein such step of providing at least one commercial-entity portal comprises the step of assisting setup, by at least one solicitation setup computer interface, of at least one solicitation to contribute to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; wherein such step of providing at least one member portal comprises the step of presenting at least one plurality of such at least one solicitation from the plurality of commercial entities to members of the at least one internet social network; wherein such step of providing at least one member portal further comprises the step of assisting collecting, through at least one solicitation participator computer interface, at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network; wherein such step of providing at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises the step of delivering such at least one participation contribution of at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network relating to such at least one solicitation of the at least one commercial entity; and wherein the plurality of commercial entities each receive leveraging of the at least one internet social network in developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of each commercial entity respectively.

[0031] Further, it provides such a computer implemented method further comprising the step of market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity. Even further, it provides such a computer implemented method further comprising the step of incentivizing participation of the members of the at least one internet social network in such at least one solicitation to develop the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

Docket No. BULB.14006 10 [0032] Moreover, it provides such a computer implemented method further comprising the step of market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity. Additionally, it provides such a computer implemented method wherein such step of incentivizing participation comprises the steps of: assisting establishing, through such at least one incentive establisher computer interface, at least one incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; tracking such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and assisting each such participating member to redeem such at least one incentive according to such participation contributions made by such participating member.

[0033] Also, it provides such a computer implemented method further comprising the step of market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity. In addition, it provides such a computer implemented method wherein such step of providing at least one member portal further comprises the step of generating competition between at least two of such at least one

participation contribution.

[0034] And, it provides such a computer implemented method wherein such step of generating competition comprises the step of assisting rating of such at least one participation contribution by such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network. Further, it provides such a computer implemented method wherein such step of providing at least one member portal further comprises the step of generating competition between such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network. Even further, it provides such a computer implemented method wherein such step of generating competition comprises ranking, according to value, of such at least one participation contribution collectively made by each such at least one participating member.

[0035] Moreover, it provides such a computer implemented method further comprising the step of sharing social-network-user-authentication of the at least one internet social network with such at least one member portal and such at least one commercial-entity portal open.

Additionally, it provides such a computer implemented method wherein such step of providing at

Docket No. BULB.14006 11 least one commercial-entity portal further comprises the steps of: assisting assigning administration rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one administration member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and associating such administration rights to such social-network-user- authentication of such at least one administration member.

[0036] Also, it provides such a computer implemented method wherein such step of assisting assigning administration rights comprises the steps of: assisting assigning moderation rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one moderator member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and associating such moderator rights to such social-network-user-authentication of such at least one moderator member. In addition, it provides such a computer implemented method further comprising the steps of: providing at least one solicitation template creation portal open to at least one template creator member from the members of the at least one internet social network; wherein such step of providing at least one solicitation template creation portal comprises the step of creating at least one solicitation template; and wherein such step of providing at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises the step of assisting selecting such at least one solicitation template to use in such at least one solicitation on such at least one member portal.

[0037] And, it provides such a computer implemented method further comprising the step of modularizing at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation in such at least one solicitation template to process each such at least one processing function within at least one function module. Further, it provides such a computer implemented method wherein such such step of providing at least one solicitation template creation portal comprises the steps of:

assisting selecting by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module to include in such at least one solicitation template; assisting locating by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module in such at least one solicitation template; assisting nesting such at least one function module inside another such at least one function module.

[0038] Even further, it provides such a computer implemented method wherein such step of modularizing at least one processing function comprises the step of recursively processing such at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation while increasing at least one processing scope to include at least one parent-nesting function module on each recursion until all required data to complete such at least one processing function is available within such at least one processing scope.

Docket No. BULB.14006 12 [0039] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a system, relating to leveraging at least one internet social network in developing at least one idea relating to at least one commercial offering of at least one commercial entity of a plurality of commercial entities, comprising: internet-social-network member portal means for providing at least one member portal open to members of the at least one internet social network;

commercial-entity portal means for providing at least one commercial-entity portal open to the plurality of commercial entities to solicit development of the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering; wherein such commercial-entity portal means comprises solicitation setup computer interface means for assisting setup, by at least one solicitation setup computer interface, of at least one solicitation to contribute to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; wherein such internet-social-network member portal means comprises presenter means for presenting at least one plurality of such at least one solicitation from the plurality of commercial entities to members of the at least one internet social network; wherein such internet-social-network member portal means further comprises participation contribution collector computer interface means for assisting collecting, through at least one solicitation participator computer interface, at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network; wherein such commercial- entity portal means further comprises participation contribution deliverer computer interface means for delivering such at least one participation contribution of at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network relating to such at least one solicitation of the at least one commercial entity; and wherein the plurality of commercial entities each receive leveraging of the at least one internet social network in developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of each commercial entity respectively.

[0040] Moreover, it provides such a system further comprising market survey computer processor means for market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity. Additionally, it provides such a system further comprising incentivizer computer processor means for incentivizing participation of the members of the at least one internet social network in such at least one solicitation to develop the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity. Also, it provides such a system further comprising market survey computer processor means for market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social

Docket No. BULB.14006 13 network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

[0041] In addition, it provides such a system wherein such incentivizer computer processor means comprises: incentive establisher computer interface means for assisting establishing, through such at least one incentive establisher computer interface, at least one incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; participation tracker computer processor means for tracking such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and incentive redemption computer processor means for assisting each such participating member to redeem such at least one incentive according to such participation contributions made by such participating member. And, it provides such a system further comprising market survey computer processor means for market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity. Further, it provides such a system wherein such internet-social-network member portal means further comprises idea competition generator means for generating competition between at least two of such at least one participation contribution. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such idea competition generator means comprises contribution rating computer processor means for assisting rating of such at least one participation contribution by such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such internet-social-network member portal means further comprises participation competition generator means for generating competition between such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network.

[0042] Even further, it provides such a system wherein such participation competition generator means comprises participation ranking computer processor means for ranking, according to value, of such at least one participation contribution collectively made by each such at least one participating member. Even further, it provides such a system further comprising authentication sharing computer processor means for sharing social-network-user-authentication of the at least one internet social network with internet-social-network member portal means and such commercial-entity portal means. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such commercial-entity portal means further comprises: administration rights assignor computer

Docket No. BULB.14006 14 processor means for assisting assigning administration rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one administration member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and administrator rights associator computer processor means for associating such administration rights to such social -network- user-authentication of such at least one administration member.

[0043] Even further, it provides such a system wherein such administration rights assignor computer processor means comprises: moderator rights assignor computer processor means for assisting assigning moderation rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one moderator member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and moderator rights associator computer processor means for associating such moderator rights to such social -network-user-authentication of such at least one moderator member. Even further, it provides such a system further comprising: solicitation template creation portal means for providing at least one solicitation template creation portal open to at least one template creator member from the members of the at least one internet social network; wherein such solicitation template creation portal means comprises solicitation template creation computer interface means for creating at least one solicitation template; and wherein such commercial-entity portal means further comprises solicitation template selector means for assisting selecting such at least one solicitation template to use in such at least one solicitation on such internet-social-network member portal means.

[0044] Even further, it provides such a system further comprising function modularizer computer processor means for modularizing at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation in such at least one solicitation template to process each such at least one processing function within at least one function module. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such solicitation template creation computer interface means comprises: template module selector computer processor means for assisting selecting by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module to include in such at least one solicitation template; template module locator computer processor means for assisting locating by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module in such at least one solicitation template; template -module nesting computer processor means for assisting nesting such at least one function module inside another such at least one function module.

[0045] Even further, it provides such a system wherein such function modularizer computer processor means comprises recursive function computer processor means for recursively processing such at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation while increasing at least one processing scope to include at least one parent-nesting function module on each

Docket No. BULB.14006 15 recursion until all required data to complete such at least one processing function is available within such at least one processing scope.

[0046] And, it provides for each and every novel feature, element, combination, step and/or method disclosed or suggested by this patent application.

Docket No. BULB.14006 16 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram, illustrating an online innovation community, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram, illustrating group utilization of such online innovation community, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.

[0049] FIG. 3 shows a graph diagram, illustrating multiple privacy levels with customization, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.

[0050] FIG. 4 shows a privacy assurance flow diagram, illustrating at least one privacy assurance method, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.

[0051] FIG. 5 shows an idea administration user-interface diagram, illustrating

administrative functions available in at least one idea administration user-interface, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.

[0052] FIG. 6 shows an idea perusal user-interface diagram, illustrating idea interaction functions available in at idea perusal user-interface, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.

[0053] FIG. 7 shows a screenshot view, illustrating an authentication interface, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.

[0054] FIG. 8 shows a screenshot view illustrating one idea perusal user-interface of FIG. 6.

[0055] FIG. 9 shows a screenshot view, illustrating a user-interface, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.

[0056] FIG. 10A through FIG. 10E show screenshot views illustrating one idea

administration user-interface of FIG. 5.

[0057] FIG. 11 shows a screenshot view, illustrating an authorization request interface, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 4.

[0058] FIG. 12 shows a screenshot view, illustrating an authorization interface, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 5.

[0059] FIG. 13 shows a diagrammatic interfacing chart view, illustrating interfacing of innovation marketplace system through at least one social network, according to an alternately preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 14 shows a diagrammatic business flow chart view, illustrating interchange of compensation and innovation participation, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 13.

[0061] FIG. 15 shows a process flow chart view, illustrating process flow to solicit innovation participation, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 14.

Docket No. BULB.14006 17 [0062] FIG. 16 shows a process flow chart view, illustrating at least one recursive template process flow, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 15.

[0063] FIG. 17 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating the at least one recursive template process flow, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 16.

[0064] FIG. 18 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating at least one nested modular template interaction, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 17.

[0065] FIG. 19 through FIG. 32 show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating an example of at least one originator user interface for administrating at least one solicitation invitation, according to preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[0066] FIG. 33 and FIG. 34 show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating an example of at least one moderator user interface for moderating at least one solicitation invitation, according to preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[0067] FIG. 35 through FIG. 47 show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating an example of at least one community user interface for participating in at least one solicitation invitation, according to preferred embodiments of the present invention.

Docket No. BULB.14006 18 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES

AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0068] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram, illustrating an online innovation community 102, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Innovation marketplace system 100 preferably comprises online innovation community 102, as shown. In the online innovation community 102, at least one user 205 gains access through Internet 140 to an online innovation community server environment 105, utilizing at least one Internet-enabled computerized device 115, as shown. Internet-enabled computerized device 115 preferably comprises at least one personal computer. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as future technology, cost, wide area network availability, etc., other Internet-enabled computerized devices, such as, for example, mobile computing devices, hand-held computing devices, internet-enabled phones, etc., may suffice.

[0069] User 205 preferably comprises, as shown, at least one system administrator 120, at least one innovator 110, at least one knowledgeable user 125, at least one skilled user 130, and at least one resource-bearing user 135. System administrator 120 preferably administrates online innovation community server environment 105. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as user interests, marketing, feedback needs, etc., other users, such as, for example, corporate idea hunters, parents, students, workers, etc., may suffice.

[0070] Innovator 110 preferably has at least one innovation idea 112, as shown, and preferably desires assistance from online innovation community 102 in furthering the

development, marketing, protection and/or monetization of innovation idea 112. Innovator 110 preferably desires to initially maintain ownership rights while obtaining such assistance.

[0071] Knowledgeable user 125 preferably has knowledge 127 useful in assisting innovator 110 with innovation idea 112, as shown. Knowledge 127 preferably comprises technical knowledge in the area of innovation, practical knowledge from experience, and/or general knowledge pertaining to use. Knowledgeable user 125 preferably is willing to share knowledge 127 with online innovation community 102.

[0072] Skilled user 130 preferably has skills 132 useful in assisting innovator 110 with innovation idea 112, as shown. Skills 132 preferably comprise equipment skills, language skills, marketing skills, and/or implementation skills. Skilled user 130 preferably is willing to share skills 132 with online innovation community 102.

Docket No. BULB.14006 19 [0073] Resource-bearing user 135 preferably has resources 137 available to assist innovator 110 with innovation idea 112, as shown. Resources 137 preferably comprise monetary resources, connections to services, and/or physical resources. Resource-bearing user 135 preferably is willing to share resources 137 with online innovation community 102.

[0074] In online innovation community 102, innovation ideas 112, knowledge 127, skills 132, and resources 137 may preferably be exchanged in trade, for compensation, or freely as desired by involved users 205. Such compensation may be in real world monetary exchange or alternately in at least one intra-community virtual currency. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future exchange methods, future technologies, etc., other trade methods, such as, for example, inter-community virtual currency, integration with online currency exchanges, etc., may suffice. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as future technologies, user preferences, etc., other uses of intra-community virtual currency, such as, for example, monetary exchange, contest rewards, intra-site pay-per-click advertising, assistance bonuses, etc., may suffice.

[0075] Online innovation community 102 preferably provides personal and professional networking opportunities intended to bring together users having skills 132, knowledge 127 and/or resources 137, relating to the creation, development, protection, marketing, and/or monetization of innovation ideas 112, preferably while maintaining an environment capable of protecting ownership rights of innovator 110.

[0076] Online innovation community server environment 105 preferably provides services necessary to accomplish the objectives of online innovation community 102. Online innovation community server environment 105 preferably comprises, as shown, at least one user- authentication server 155, at least one user-interface server 160, at least one file server 170, at least one database server 180, at least one privacy-contract server 190, at least one privacy-rights server 210, at least one log server 220, at least one encryption server 230, and at least one messaging server 260.

[0077] Online innovation community server environment 105 preferably internally communicates through at least one communications router 150, as shown. Online innovation community server environment 105 preferably externally communicates through at least one firewall 145 to Internet 140, and thereby to users 205, as shown. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering

Docket No. BULB.14006 20 such issues as cost, future technology, etc., other communications methods, such as, for example, other WAN communications, direct connections, etc., may suffice.

[0078] User-authentication server 155 (at least embodying herein access computer interface means for providing access to such computer system by such users; and, at least embodying herein at least one access computer interface structured and arranged to provide access to such computer system by such users; and, at least embodying herein providing access to such at least one computer system by such users) preferably maintains at least one user profile 157, as shown. User profile 157 preferably comprises at least one username -password combination, preferably designed to authenticate user 205 to online innovation community server environment 105.

Once authenticated, user 205 receives permissions 215 from privacy-rights server 210.

[0079] User-interface server 160 preferably comprises at least one user interface 165 (at least embodying herein at least one receiver computer interface structured and arranged to receive digital information, from such users, relating to at least one invention; and, at least embodying herein receiver computer interface means for receiving digital information, from such users, relating to at least one invention; and, at least embodying herein receiving digital information, from such users, relating to at least one invention), as shown. User interface server 160

preferably utilizes permissions 215 to determine the information to display. Through user interface 165, user 205 preferably may alter user profile 157, and preferably participate in online innovation community 102.

[0080] Database server 180 (at least embodying herein assisting storing digital information relating to a plurality of such at least one inventions; and, at least embodying herein at least one invention computer storage structured and arranged to assist storing digital information relating to a plurality of such at least one inventions; and, at least embodying herein invention computer storage means for assisting storing digital information relating to a plurality of such at least one inventions) preferably comprises at least one database 185, as shown. Database 185 preferably stores information relating to innovation idea 112. Database 185 preferably comprises at least one relational database, and is preferably capable of maintaining relational information of innovation idea 112 as related to other information within online innovation community server environment 105.

[0081] File server 170 preferably is capable of receiving at least one file 175, relating to innovation idea 112, and preferably is capable of storing file 175, as shown. File server 170 preferably utilizes at least one file transfer protocol to send and receive file 175. File server 170 preferably utilizes database server 180 to link file 175 to related innovation idea 112.

Docket No. BULB.14006 21 [0082] Privacy-contract server 190 preferably stores at least one privacy contract 195, as shown. Privacy-contract server 190 preferably utilizes database server 180 to link privacy contract 195 to related innovation idea 112. When required, privacy-contract server 190

preferably provides privacy contract 195 to assist in establishing at least one privacy agreement between innovator 110 and user 205. Privacy-contract server 190 preferably may receive at least one custom privacy contract 197 (see FIG. 5) from innovator 110 to use as privacy contract 195. Additionally, innovator 110 preferably may utilize privacy-contract server 190 to select which privacy contract 195, if any, to utilize in connection with innovation idea 112.

[0083] Privacy-rights server 210 (at least embodying herein assisting custom control of privacy relating to such at least one invention on behalf of each such user owning such at least one invention; and, at least embodying herein at least one privacy computer processor structured and arranged to assist custom control of privacy relating to such at least one invention on behalf of each such user owning such at least one invention; and, at least embodying herein privacy computer processor means for assisting custom control of privacy relating to such at least one invention on behalf of each such user owning such at least one invention) preferably maintains permissions 215, as shown. Innovator 110 preferably may alter permissions 215 related to innovation idea 112 owned and/or controlled by innovator 110. Permissions 215 preferably comprise rights to access innovation idea 112. Permissions 215 preferably limit disclosure of innovation idea 112 as chosen by innovator 110.

[0084] Encryption server 230 preferably provides encryption to at least one locked file 520, as shown. Locked file 520 preferably resides in file server 170. When transmitting locked information 235 to user 205, encryption server 230 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one privacy computer processor further comprises at least one secure encrypting computer processor structured and arranged to securely encrypt transmissions of such digital information; and, at least herein embodying wherein such privacy computer processor means further comprises secure encrypting computer processor means for securely encrypting transmissions of such digital information; and, wherein such step of assisting custom control further comprises securely encrypting transmissions of such digital information) preferably encrypts locked information 235, preferably preventing disclosure of innovation idea 112 during transmission. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as future technologies, cost, etc., other secure transmission methods, such as for example, establishing a VPN, establishing a direct connection, etc., may suffice.

Docket No. BULB.14006 22 [0085] Log server 220 preferably maintains at least one log 225, as shown. Log 225

preferably comprises information relating to privacy contract 195 being accepted and preferably information relating to access to locked information 235. Log 225 is preferably maintained to provide documentation of activities relating to locked information 235.

[0086] Messaging server 260 preferably permits at least one message 265 to be transmitted between at least two users 205, as shown. Messages 265 preferably may comprise authorization requests 415 (see FIG. 4), invitations to lease one group 250 (see FIG. 2), offers of assistance, requests for assistance, informational assistance, and/or system messages. Messaging server 260 preferably provides a communications channel useful in private and professional networking environments, such as online innovation community 102.

[0087] When utilized together, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably provides additional features comprising lists of friends, favorites, custom homepages, and other common-community features. Online innovation community server environment 105 provides these additional features to encourage active participation by all users 205 within online innovation community 102. As a unique social-market for innovation, online innovation community 102 preferably allows users 205 to securely share, develop and review each other's innovation ideas 112.

[0088] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram, illustrating group utilization of online innovation community 102, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. Online innovation

community 102 preferably allows for the creation of groups 250, as shown. Groups 250

preferably comprise users 205, preferably collaborating on innovation idea 112. Innovator 110 may preferably form group 250 to include users 205, trusted by innovator 110, by invitation to participate in the development of innovation idea 112.

[0089] Likewise, groups 250 may preferably comprise at least one corporate group, formed to elicit feedback 645 (see FIG. 6) from users 205. Online innovation community 102 preferably drives corporate participation with private concept-testing and viral-marketing services. Group 250 preferably may tap into skills 132, knowledge 127, and/or resources 137 of online innovation community 102, particularly when users 205 within group 250 lack needed skills 132, knowledge 127, and/or resources 137.

[0090] In addition, group 250 may preferably receive feedback 645 from at least one potential consumer 240, as shown, from among users 205. By receiving feedback 645 from potential consumer 240, group 250 may utilize online innovation community 102 as a sounding board for the commercial viability of new ideas, preferably including innovation idea 112, alterations to marketing ideas, and/or new product lines.

Docket No. BULB.14006 23 [0091] Further, group 250 may preferably be formed to seek out well developed innovation ideas 112, whose innovators 110 are seeking licensing and/or sale of their respective innovation ideas 112. Group 250 may become well known in online innovation community 102 by users 205 within group 250 providing assistance to innovator 110 to bring innovation idea 112 to a state conducive to licensing and/or sale.

[0092] Online innovation community 102 preferably allows the best ideas from innovators 110, experts (knowledgeable user 125, skilled user 130, and resource-bearing user 135), groups 250, and potential consumers 240 to come together to grow.

[0093] FIG. 3 shows a graphed matrix diagram, illustrating multiple privacy levels with customization 325, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2. In order to provide assistance to innovator 110 and maintain privacy during development of innovation idea 112, privacy-rights server 210 preferably provides multiple levels of privacy for innovation idea 112, as shown in privacy matrix 300.

[0094] During the initial setup and development of innovation idea 112, innovator 110 preferably may choose to maintain complete privacy using privacy level 310. In privacy level 310, only innovator 110 may see any aspect of innovation idea 112, as shown. Innovator 110 may choose privacy level 310, while gathering together information pertaining to innovation idea 112, while exploring the viability of innovation idea 112, and/or while innovator 110 feels no need of outside assistance.

[0095] When innovator 110 wishes to share innovation idea 112 with a select group of users 205, innovator 110 preferably may choose privacy level 315, as shown. In privacy level 315, innovator of 110 preferably may invite select users 205, preferably to form group 250 with the purpose to further develop innovation idea 112. Privacy level 315 preferably allows innovator 110 to seek out users 205 with specific skills 132, knowledge 127, and/or resources 137, preferably without releasing information on innovation idea 112 to the general public.

[0096] Should innovator 110 wish to publicly disclose innovation idea 112 privacy level 320 is preferably available. Privacy level 320 preferably discloses innovation idea 112 to all users 205.

[0097] To provide customization 325 to privacy level 315 and privacy level 320, privacy- rights server 210 preferably further provides locking of portions of the information relating to innovation idea 112. Unlocked information 335 preferably is viewed according to the restrictions dictated by privacy level 315 or privacy level 320, preferably depending upon chosen setting of innovator 110. Locked information 235 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one privacy computer processor further comprises at least one information masking

Docket No. BULB.14006 24 computer processor structured and arranged to mask at least one user-selected portion of such digital information from view while disclosing the existence of such at least one user-selected portion of such digital information; and, at least herein embodying wherein such privacy computer processor means further comprises information masking computer processor means for masking at least one user-selected portion of such digital information from view while disclosing the existence of such at least one user-selected portion of such digital information; and, at least herein embodying wherein such step of assisting custom control further comprises masking at least one user-selected portion of such digital information from view while disclosing the existence of such at least one user-selected portion of such digital information), however, preferably may only be viewed at the discretion of innovator 110.

[0098] Innovator 110 preferably may individually approve users 205 to view locked information 235 by granting locked information access rights 430. Only users 205, having been granted locked information access rights 430 (access-granted users 330), may view locked information 235 whether privacy level 315 or privacy level 320 is selected.

[0099] Innovator 110 preferably may grant locked information access rights 430 for only one portion of locked information 235, alternately preferably for all portions of locked information 235. Innovator 110 preferably may select which portions of information relating to innovation idea 112 may be disclosed within selected privacy level, effectively allowing customization of both privacy level 315 and privacy level 320.

[0100] Innovator 110 always has access to both locked information 235 and unlocked information 335 no matter which privacy level (privacy level 310, privacy level 315 or privacy level 320) is chosen. Users 205 included in group 250 preferably may view any unlocked information 335, when privacy level 315 or privacy level 320 are chosen. All users 205 only have view privileges for unlocked information 335 when privacy level 320 is selected. For any user 205 other than Innovator 110, locked information 235 preferably requires locked information access rights 430 to be viewed.

[0101] Locked information 235 may preferably comprise at least one locked file 520 (see FIG. 5), related to innovation idea 112. Upon reading the specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as future disclosure laws, cost, future technology, etc., other locked information, such as, for example, database fields, redacted information within a database field, redacted information in a file, etc., may suffice.

[0102] FIG. 4 shows a privacy assurance flow diagram, illustrating at least one privacy assurance method 400, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 3. When granting locked

Docket No. BULB.14006 25 information access rights 430, innovator 110 may preferably desire to obtain assurance that access-granted users 330 will not disclose locked information 235. Online innovation

community server environment preferably provides privacy assurance method 400 to assist in the assurance of nondisclosure, as shown.

[0103] When user 205 (shown as view requesting user 410) desires to view locked information 235, user 205 preferably submits at least one locked information view request 415 utilizing messaging server 260, as shown. Messaging server 260 preferably receives locked information view request 415, in step receive unlock request 450, as shown.

[0104] Innovator 110 preferably has selected privacy contract 195 to use in conjunction with innovation idea 112. Upon submission of locked information view request 415, privacy-contract server 190 (at least embodying herein assisting establishing at least one privacy contract relating to such masked at least one portion of such digital information; and, at least embodying herein at least one privacy contract computer processor structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one privacy contract relating to such at least one user-selected portion of such digital information; and, at least embodying herein further comprising privacy contract computer processor means for assisting establishing at least one privacy contract relating to such masked at least one portion of such digital information) preferably provides privacy contract 195 as unsigned privacy contract 420, in step provide contract 455, as shown, to view requesting user 410. View requesting user 410 preferably submits privacy contract 195 as signed privacy contract 425, preferably to privacy-contract server 190, as shown. Privacy-contract server 190 preferably receives signed privacy contract 425 in step receive signed contract 460, as shown.

[0105] Messaging server 260 preferably sends locked information view request 415 along with the status of privacy contract 195, preferably indicating a signed or unsigned state, in step forward view request 465, as shown. Upon receiving locked information view request 415, innovator 110 preferably elects to grant access rights 430 to view requesting user 410, preferably using privacy-rights server 210, in step grant access rights 470, as shown. Privacy-rights server 210 preferably provides access rights 430 to view requesting user 410, in step provide access rights 475, as shown, altering view requesting user 410 to become access-granted user 330. Access-granted user 330 preferably may then access locked information 235.

[0106] When user 205 submits signed privacy contract 425, log server 220 preferably logs signed privacy contract 425 in connection with user 205 and innovation idea 112, in step log signed contract 445. In addition, whenever access-granted user 330 accesses locked information 435, log server 220 logs such access in connection with user 205 and innovation idea 112, in step log access 440 (at least embodying herein recording access to such masked at least one portion of

Docket No. BULB.14006 26 such digital information; and, at least herein embodying wherein such at least one privacy- contract-recording computer processor further comprises at least one masked information access recording computer processor structured and arranged to record access to such masked at least one user-selected portion of such digital information; and, at least herein embodying wherein such privacy-contract-recording computer processor means further comprises masked information access recording computer processor means for recording access to such masked at least one portion of such digital information). By logging both signed privacy contract 425 and access to locked information 435, innovator 110 may preferably obtain a record of all signed privacy contracts 425 and all disclosures of locked information 235 within online innovation community 102 from log server 220 (at least embodying herein further comprising at least one privacy-contract-recording computer processor structured and arranged to record acceptance of such at least one privacy contract; and, at least embodying herein privacy-contract-recording computer processor means for recording acceptance of such at least one privacy contract; and, at least embodying herein recording acceptance of such at least one privacy contract).

[0107] FIG. 5 shows an idea administration user-interface diagram, illustrating

administrative functions available in at least one idea administration user-interface 500,

according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. User interface 165 preferably comprises idea administration user-interface 500, as shown. Idea administration user-interface 500 preferably provides innovator 110 with at least one administrative tool 505, as shown, for innovation idea 112.

[0108] Administrative tools 505 preferably comprise, as shown, at least one database interface 550, at least one privacy level interface 560, at least one privacy customization interface 580, at least one file upload interface 570, at least one privacy contract interface 590, at least one view authorization interface 595, and at least one options interface 540. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate

circumstances, considering such issues as, cost, future administration needs, future technologies, etc., other administrative tools, such as, for example, image editors, document drafters, spreadsheets, presentation tools, chat tools, etc., may suffice.

[0109] Database interface 550 preferably allows information relating to innovation idea 112 to be entered into database 185, as shown. Database interface 550 preferably allows creation, editing, and deletion of innovation idea 112 from database 185. Innovation idea 112 preferably is created within database 185 before other administrative tools 505 are activated.

[0110] Privacy level interface 560 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one privacy computer processor comprises at least one selectable-level computer processor structured

Docket No. BULB.14006 27 and arranged to assist owner-user-selecting of at least one privacy level; and, at least herein embodying wherein such privacy computer processor means comprises selectable-level computer processor means for assisting owner-user-selecting of at least one privacy level; and, at least herein embodying wherein such step of assisting custom control comprises assisting owner- user-selecting of at least one privacy level) preferably allows innovator 110 to set at least one privacy level 515 for innovation idea 112, as shown. By setting privacy level 515, innovator 110 is preferably allowed control over generally who has access to innovation idea 112, as discussed in FIG. 3. Privacy is preferably controlled by innovator 110, rather than being taken over by a corporate entity prior to allowing use of online innovation community 102. Innovator 110 preferably utilizes online innovation community 102 to ready innovation idea 112 to be licensed and/or sold, while preferably maintaining control of innovation idea 112. Settings of privacy levels 515 are preferably handled by privacy-rights server 210.

[0111] File upload interface 570 preferably provides access to file server 170, as shown. File 175 preferably may be uploaded and preferably connected to innovation idea 112. File upload interface 570 preferably uses at least one file transfer protocol. File 175 preferably provides additional information relating to innovation idea 112 beyond what may be entered into database 185 using database interface 550. File 175 preferably comprises images, alternately preferably specification documentation, alternately preferably plans. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as, file size, cost, future technologies, etc., other file types, such as for example, multimedia files, application files, charts, etc., may suffice.

[0112] Privacy customization interface 580 preferably allows customization of privacy levels 515, as shown. Files 175 preferably are set as locked files 520 (as indicated by locked information 235) when innovator 110 desires to limit viewing of files 175 to specific users 205. Any of files 175 that innovator 110 wishes to remain open to users 205 included in selection of privacy levels 515 may preferably be set to an unlocked state (as indicated by unlocked information 335). Locked file 520 preferably is encrypted by encryption server 230 to maintain security. Permissions to view locked information 235 and unlocked information 335 are preferably handled by privacy-rights server 210, preferably in conjunction with privacy levels 515, preferably creating privacy matrix 300 as described in FIG. 3.

[0113] Privacy contract interface 590 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one privacy contract computer processor further comprises at least one owning-user-privacy- contract-selecting computer processor structured and arranged to assist owner-user-selecting at least one privacy contract; and, at least herein embodying wherein such privacy contract

Docket No. BULB.14006 28 computer processor means further comprises owning-user privacy contract selecting computer processor means for assisting owner-user-selecting at least one privacy contract; and, at least herein embodying wherein such step of assisting custom control further comprises assisting owner-user-selecting at least one privacy contract) preferably provides innovator 110 with access to privacy-contract server 190, as shown. Innovator 110 preferably may choose between privacy contracts 195 as provided by online innovation community 102, alternately preferably may choose to utilize at least one custom privacy contract 197. Privacy contract interface 590 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one owning-user-privacy-contract-selecting computer processor comprises at least one custom-privacy-contract-receiving computer processor structured and arranged to receive at least one custom privacy contract; and, at least herein embodying wherein such owning-user privacy contract selecting computer processor means comprises custom privacy contract receiving computer processor means for receiving at least one custom privacy contract; and, at least herein embodying wherein such step of assisting owner-user-selecting comprises receiving at least one custom privacy contract) preferably allows uploading of custom privacy contract 197, as shown, alternately preferably allows entering of custom privacy contract 197. Using privacy contract interface 590, innovator may preferably assign privacy contract 195 to use upon request, of user 205, to view locked information 235.

[0114] Authorization interface 595 preferably allows innovator 110 to select individual users 205 to include in either privacy level 315 or as authorized to view locked information 235.

Innovator 110 preferably may search and preferably add users 205 to privacy level 315. Further, upon receipt of authorization request 415, innovator 110 may preferably review user profile 157 of access-granted user 330, authorization request 415 and signed privacy contract 425. When innovator 110 chooses, innovator 110 may then preferably accept authorization request 415 using Authorization interface 595 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one privacy contract computer processor further comprises at least one user-selectable unmasking-request accepting computer processor structured and arranged to assist accepting unmasking requests of such masked at least one user-selected portion of such digital information; and, at least herein embodying wherein such privacy contract computer processor means further comprises user- selectable unmasking-request accepting computer processor means for assisting accepting unmasking requests of such masked at least one portion of such digital information; and, at least herein embodying wherein such step of assisting custom control further comprises assisting accepting unmasking requests of such masked at least one portion of such digital information).

[0115] Options interface 540 preferably provides access to innovation idea options 545, as shown. Innovation idea options 545 preferably comprise at least one assistance request area 547.

Docket No. BULB.14006 29 Assistance request area preferably comprises skills 132, knowledge 127, and/or resources 137. Innovation idea options 545 preferably are visible to users 205, and preferably indicate which areas innovator 110 would like assistance in relating to innovation idea 112. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other innovation idea options, such as, for example, stage of development, intellectual property applied, etc., may suffice.

[0116] Idea administration user-interface 500 preferably provides innovator 110 control over every aspect of developing, sharing, requesting aid in, and protectively disclosing innovation idea 112. Innovator 110 is preferably always in control.

[0117] FIG. 6 shows an idea perusal user-interface diagram, illustrating idea interaction functions available in at least one idea perusal user-interface 600, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. User interface 165 preferably comprises idea perusal user-interface 600. Idea perusal user-interface 600 preferably provides access to information relating to innovation idea 112 for user 205, as shown. Using idea perusal user-interface 600, user 205 may preferably interact with innovator 110 and other users 205 in providing assistance to innovator 110 relating to innovation idea 112. Idea perusal user-interface 600 preferably also indicates which user 205 is innovator 110, as shown.

[0118] Idea perusal user-interface 600 preferably comprises, as shown, at least one idea interaction function 605. Idea interaction function 605 preferably comprises at least one messaging interface 610, at least one information reading interface 620, at least one file access interface 630, at least one innovation idea feedback interface 640, at least one options display interface 650, at least one view access request interface 660, and at least one innovation idea rating interface 670. Upon reading this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, user preference, etc., other idea interaction functions, such as, for example, chat functions, white board functions, etc., may suffice.

[0119] Messaging interface 610 preferably provides access to messaging server 260, as shown. Messaging interface 610 preferably allows user 205 to send message 265 to other users 205. Message 265 preferably comprises information relating to innovation idea 112. Message 265 may preferably be sent to innovator 110. Message 265 preferably may also be sent to draw attention to innovation idea 112 from other users 205, provided users 205 have appropriate permissions 215. Messaging interface 610 preferably allows for private communication between users 205 relating to innovation idea 112.

Docket No. BULB.14006 30 [0120] Information reading interface 620 preferably displays information relating to innovation idea 112 stored in database 185, as shown. Information reading interface 620 preferably utilizes permissions 215 to determine which portions of information relating to innovation idea 112 are displayed for view by user 205. User 205 preferably reads information relating to innovation idea 112, and thereby preferably obtains an understanding of innovation idea 112.

[0121] File access interface 630 preferably provides access to file 175 using file server 170, as shown. Like with information reading interface 620, file access interface 630 utilizes permissions 215 to determine which of files 175 user 205 may access. File access interface 630 preferably allows downloading of file 175. File 175 preferably provides additional information relating to innovation idea 112 to extend understanding of innovation idea 112 to user 205.

[0122] View access request interface 660 preferably provides, as shown, user 205 the ability to make authorization request 415 (see FIG. 4). When innovator 110 has designated locked information 235, information reading interface 620 and/or file access interface 630 preferably displays that locked information 235 exists, however details of locked information 235 are hidden from view until user 205 receives access rights 430 from innovator 110. By showing that locked information 235 exists, user 205 understands that additional information is available relating to innovation idea 112. If user 205 desires to view the details of locked information 235, user 205 may utilize view access request interface 660 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one privacy contract computer processor comprises at least one user-unmasking-request computer processor structured and arranged to assist requesting unmasking of masked such at least one user-selected portion of such digital information; and, at least herein embodying wherein such privacy contract computer processor means comprises user-unmasking-request computer processor means for assisting requesting unmasking of masked such at least one portion of such digital information; and, at least herein embodying wherein such step of assisting custom control comprises assisting requesting unmasking of masked such at least one portion of such digital information).

[0123] Innovation idea feedback interface 640 preferably allows user 205 to provide feedback 645 to innovator 110 relating to innovation idea 112, as shown. After user 205 utilizes information reading interface 620 and/or file access interface 630, user 205 preferably leaves feedback 645. Feedback 645 is preferably incorporated into information relating to innovation idea 112 stored in database 185. Feedback 645 preferably generates a free exchange of concepts and/or thoughts designed to assist innovator 110 with innovation idea 112.

Docket No. BULB.14006 31 [0124] Options display interface 650 preferably displays innovation idea options 545, as shown. Options display interface 650 preferably assists user 205 in identifying the needs of innovator 110 related to innovation idea 112, as shown. Options display interface 650 preferably prevents offers of assistance to innovator 110 in areas deemed unnecessary by innovator 110, preferably helping user 205 to focus on innovation ideas 112 where skills 132, knowledge 127, and/or resources 137 of user 205 are needed.

[0125] Innovation idea rating interface 670 preferably allows user 205 the ability to rate innovation idea 112, as shown. By rating animation idea 112, users 205 preferably promote innovation idea 112 for innovator 110. Innovation ideas 112 with higher ratings 675 preferably obtain higher prominence in online innovation community 102. Ratings 675 assist online innovation community 102 in focusing on innovation ideas 112 more likely to become fully developed and successful in the marketplace, as indicated by the popularity shown by ratings 675.

[0126] Idea perusal user-interface 600 preferably allows interaction of users 205 in online innovation community 102 to collaborate in the development of innovation idea 112 as controlled by innovator 110. Online innovation community 102 preferably uses peer-review (feedback 645 and ratings 675) to increase the predictability of success of innovation idea 112 and enable viral-marketing. And, because users 205 drive ratings 675 and popularity of innovation ideas 112, companies build relationships with consumers and discover concepts with demonstrated appeal and a ready market.

[0127] FIG. 7 shows a screenshot view, illustrating an authentication interface, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. 8 shows a screenshot view illustrating one idea perusal user-interface of FIG. 6. FIG. 9 shows a screenshot view, illustrating a user-interface, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. 1 OA through FIG. 10E show screenshot views illustrating one idea administration user-interface of FIG. 5. FIG. 11 shows a screenshot view, illustrating an authorization request interface, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 4. FIG. 12 shows a screenshot view, illustrating an authorization interface, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 through FIG. 12 show screenshots of worked examples of user interfaces 165 utilized in online innovation community 102. FIG. 13 shows a diagrammatic interfacing chart view, illustrating interfacing of innovation marketplace system 700 through at least one existing social network 710, according to an alternately preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] While many features of innovation marketplace system 700 are repeated from innovation marketplace system 100, in innovation marketplace system 700, user-interfacing is

Docket No. BULB.14006 32 preferably handled through at least one social network 710, as shown. Social network 710 preferably exists outside of innovation marketplace system 700 and is preferably controlled by at least one third party. Innovation marketplace system 700 preferably establishes at least one online innovation community 705, preferably within social network 710. Innovation

marketplace system 700 preferably leverages social network 710 by accessing users 715 of social network 710 to preferably create online innovation community 705 (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein the plurality of commercial entities each receive leveraging of the at least one internet social network in developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of each commercial entity respectively; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein the plurality of commercial entities each receive leveraging of the at least one internet social network in developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of each commercial entity respectively; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein the plurality of commercial entities each receive leveraging of the at least one internet social network in developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of each commercial entity respectively).

[0129] Online innovation community 705 preferably comprises a collective resource pool, from users 715 of social network 710, to drive innovation, innovation development, and marketplace research. Online innovation community 705 preferably comprises users 715, preferably comprising consumers 240, innovators 110, knowledgeable users 125, skilled users 130, creative users 717, and technical users 719, as shown in FIG. 13. Consumers 240

preferably comprise individuals and/or companies who purchase products and/or services, and therefore, preferably have insight concerning consumer preferences, experiences and/or opinions useful in online innovation community 705. Innovators 110 preferably comprise individuals and/or companies who generate new and useful concepts and/or ideas which preferably may be useful in online innovation community 705. Knowledgeable users 125 preferably comprise individuals and/or companies who have knowledge, preferably gained through education, useful in online innovation community 705, such as physics, programming, engineering, etc. Skilled users 130 preferably comprise individuals and/or companies who have skills, preferably gained through experience, useful in online innovation community 705, such as accounting, web design, supply chain design, cooking, etc. Creative users 717 preferably comprise individuals and/or companies who are capable of creating solutions to problems by thinking outside of known standards, and preferably may provide insight useful in online innovation community 705.

Technical users 719 preferably comprise individuals and/or companies who apply known standards and/or procedures to realize completion of a newly developed product and/or service

Docket No. BULB.14006 33 and preferably may have technical expertise useful in online innovation community 705. Each user 715 preferably contributes to online innovation community 705 based on background, skill, experience, training, creativity, etc., preferably providing at least one representative sampling 707 of at least one marketplace. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as future technology, needs for innovations, cost, etc., other users, such as, for example, artistic users, writers, laborers, etc., may suffice.

[0130] Social network 710 preferably comprises at least one authentication server 720, as shown, for preferably authenticating users 715 to social network 710. Social network 710 preferably further comprises at least one social network user interface 725, as shown, for preferably providing access to social network 710 to users 715. Social network user interface 725 preferably comprises at least one outside content portal interface 727, as shown, for preferably allowing at least one content portal 730 (at least embodying herein at least one internet-social-network member portal structured and arranged to provide at least one member portal open to members of the at least one internet social network; and, at least embodying herein internet-social-network member portal means for providing at least one member portal open to members of the at least one internet social network; and, at least embodying herein providing at least one member portal open to members of the at least one internet social network) to provide content outside of social network 710 to be served to users 715 as a part of social network 710. Further, social network 710 preferably shares at least one authenticated-user identification 732 (see FIG. 14) of user 715 who accesses outside content portal interface 727 with content portal 730 to permit user specific content.

[0131] Online innovation community 705 preferably permits at least one innovation solicitation 810 (see FIG. 14) from at least one innovation solicitation originator 750 to online innovation community 705. Innovation solicitation originator 750 preferably comprises at least one company, preferably seeking external input relating to an innovation, concept and/or idea pertaining to at least one marketplace. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future business entities, etc., other innovation solicitation originators, such as, for example, LLCs, individual innovators, corporations, etc., may suffice.

[0132] In use, innovation solicitation originator 750, desiring input related to an innovation, concept and/or idea, preferably creates innovation solicitation 810, preferably to present to online innovation community 705. In turn, online innovation community 705 preferably responds to innovation solicitation 810, preferably fulfilling the desired input for innovation solicitation

Docket No. BULB.14006 34 originator 750. As part of innovation solicitation 810, innovation solicitation originator 750 agrees to provide at least one incentive 820 (see FIG. 14) for participation of users 715 of online innovation community 705.

[0133] Innovation marketplace system 700 preferably comprises at least one online innovation community server environment 105, as shown, which preferably provides user interfaces 165. User interfaces 165 preferably comprises at least one community user interface 740, preferably at least one moderator user interface 742, preferably at least one originator user interface 744, and preferably at least one designer user interface 746, as shown in FIG. 13. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, implementations, etc., other user interfaces, such as, for example, administrator interfaces, panelist interfaces, marketing interfaces, etc., may suffice.

[0134] At least community user interface 740 and moderator user interface 742 preferably comprise content portal 730. Additionally, originator user interface 744 comprises content portal 730 (at least embodying herein at least one commercial-entity portal structured and arranged to provide at least one commercial-entity portal open to the plurality of commercial entities to solicit development of the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering; and, at least embodying herein commercial-entity portal means for providing at least one commercial- entity portal open to the plurality of commercial entities to solicit development of the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering; and, at least embodying herein providing at least one commercial-entity portal open to the plurality of commercial entities to solicit development of the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering).

Additionally, designer user interface 746 preferably comprises content portal 730 (at least embodying herein at least one solicitation template creation portal structured and arranged to provide at least one solicitation template creation portal open to at least one template creator member from the members of the at least one internet social network; and, at least embodying herein solicitation template creation portal means for providing at least one solicitation template creation portal open to at least one template creator member from the members of the at least one internet social network; and, at least embodying herein providing at least one solicitation template creation portal open to at least one template creator member from the members of the at least one internet social network). Content portal 730 preferably provides content, for users 715, preferably through social network 710 from online innovation community server environment 105. Online innovation community server environment 105 preferably uses authenticated-user identification 732 (see FIG. 14) to preferably authenticate user 715 with user-authentication

Docket No. BULB.14006 35 server 155 (see FIG. 13) (at least embodying herein administrator rights associator computer processor means for associating such administration rights to such social -network-user- authentication of such at least one administration member; and, at least embodying herein associating such administration rights to such social-network-user-authentication of such at least one administration member; and, at least embodying herein at least one administrator rights associator computer processor structured and arranged to associate such administration rights to such user-authentication of such at least one administration member; and, at least embodying herein associating such moderator rights to such social-network-user-authentication of such at least one moderator member; and, at least embodying herein at least one moderator rights associator computer processor structured and arranged to associate such moderator rights to such user-authentication of such at least one moderator member; and, at least embodying herein moderator rights associator computer processor means for associating such moderator rights to such social-network-user-authentication of such at least one moderator member). In addition, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably uses authenticated-user identification 732 preferably to assign rights from privacy-rights server 210 (see FIG. 13), accordingly. In innovation marketplace system 700, privacy-rights server 210 further preferably comprises handling of administration rights, preferably for administration and/or moderation on behalf of innovation solicitation originator 750 (this arrangement at least embodying herein administration rights assignor computer processor means for assisting assigning administration rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one administration member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein at least one administration rights assignor computer processor structured and arranged to assist assigning administration rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one administration member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying assisting assigning administration rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one administration member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity).

[0135] Community user interface 740 preferably provides interfacing between user 715 and online innovation community server environment 105, as shown in FIG. 13. Community user interface 740 preferably presents user 715 with innovation solicitation 810 (see FIG. 14), and preferably assists user 715 to preferably respond to innovation solicitation 810 (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one internet-social-network member portal comprises at least one presenter structured and arranged to present at least one plurality of such

Docket No. BULB.14006 36 at least one solicitation from the plurality of commercial entities to members of the at least one internet social network; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such internet- social-network member portal means comprises presenter means for presenting at least one plurality of such at least one solicitation from the plurality of commercial entities to members of the at least one internet social network) . Community user interface 740 preferably utilizes content portal 730 to preferably obtain authenticated-user identification 732 preferably for authentication to online innovation community server environment 105 (this arrangement at least embodying herein sharing social-network-user-authentication of the at least one internet social network with such at least one member portal and such at least one commercial-entity portal open; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein at least one authentication sharing computer processor structured and arranged to share social -network-user-authentication of the at least one internet social network with such at least one internet-social-network member portal and such at least one commercial-entity portal; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein authentication sharing computer processor means for sharing social-network-user-authentication of the at least one internet social network with internet-social-network member portal means and such commercial-entity portal means). Online innovation community server environment 105 is preferably able to provide, through community user interface 740, a user specific experience by maintaining user choice and preferences in connection with authenticated-user identification 732.

[0136] Additionally, community user interface 740 preferably utilizes content portal 730 to obtain, when available, profile information 830 (see FIG. 14) of user 715 from social network 710. Profile information 830 preferably permits innovation solicitation originator 750 to select at least one target audience for each innovation solicitation 810 (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one presenter comprises at least one audience targeter structured and arranged to target at least one audience selected by the at least one commercial entity from among the members of the at least one internet social network). Additionally, community user interface 740 preferably comprises portions of profile information 830 of user 715, for an additionally specific user experience, preferably user relationship information and preferably demographic information. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, available information, future technologies, etc., other user profile information, such as, for example, interests, activities, professions, etc., may suffice.

[0137] Moderator user interface 742 (see FIG. 13) preferably provides interfacing between user 715 and online innovation community server environment 105, preferably under the condition in which user 715 is designated as a moderator by innovation solicitation originator

Docket No. BULB.14006 37 750. Moderator user interface 742 preferably assists user 715, preferably designated as a moderator, to preferably moderate input given by online innovation community 705. Preferably, moderation comprises removal of inappropriate content, banning of abusive users, warning of rule violations, etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, solicitation types, etc., other moderation activities, such as, for example, responding to questions, administrating incentives, altering content display, etc., may suffice.

[0138] Originator user interface 744 preferably provides interfacing between innovation solicitation originator 750 and online innovation community server environment 105, as shown. Originator user interface 744 preferably comprises setup interfaces for innovation solicitation 810 (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one commercial-entity portal comprises at least one solicitation setup computer interface structured and arranged to assist setup of at least one solicitation to contribute to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such commercial-entity portal means comprises solicitation setup computer interface means for assisting setup, by at least one solicitation setup computer interface, of at least one solicitation to contribute to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity). Originator user interface 744 preferably further comprises at least one rights manager interface (at least embodying herein assisting assigning moderation rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one moderator member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and, at least embodying herein at least one moderator rights assignor computer processor structured and arranged to assist assigning moderation rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one moderator member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and, at least embodying herein moderator rights assignor computer processor means for assisting assigning moderation rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one moderator member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity), preferably allowing rights management for administrators and moderators. Originator user interface 744 preferably also allows setup of at least one incentive offering 822 (see FIG. 14). Ideally, originator user interface 744 preferably offers full control over innovation solicitation 810 to innovation solicitation originator 750.

[0139] Designer user interface 746 preferably provides interfacing between template designer 756 and online innovation community server environment 105, as shown in FIG. 13.

Docket No. BULB.14006 38 Designer user interface 746 preferably comprises at least one template design interface for preferably designing at least one template 812 for innovation solicitations 810 (see FIG. 14) (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one solicitation template creation portal comprises at least one solicitation template creation computer interface structured and arranged to create at least one solicitation template; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such solicitation template creation portal means comprises solicitation template creation computer interface means for creating at least one solicitation template; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such step of providing at least one solicitation template creation portal comprises the step of creating at least one solicitation template). Designer user interface 746 preferably allows for in-browser design of template 812. Designer user interface 746 preferably allows template designer 756 to create at least one content element. Designer user interface 746 preferably allows template designer 756 to nest such at least one content element inside at least one other such at least one content element (this arrangement at least embodying herein assisting nesting such at least one function module inside another such at least one function module; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein at least one template -module nesting computer processor structured and arranged to assist nesting such at least one function module inside another such at least one function module; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein template -module nesting computer processor means for assisting nesting such at least one function module inside another such at least one function module). Designer user interface 746 preferably comprises at least one library of pre-created such at least one content elements, preferably comprising at least one function module. Designer user interface 746 preferably allows template designer 756 to select such at least one function module to include inside such at least one content element (this arrangement at least embodying herein assisting selecting by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module to include in such at least one solicitation template; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein at least one template module selector computer processor structured and arranged to assist selecting by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module to include in such at least one solicitation template; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein template module selector computer processor means for assisting selecting by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module to include in such at least one solicitation template). Designer user interface 746 preferably allows template designer 756 to adjust positioning of every such at least one content element, preferably to design the final look and feel of template 812 (this arrangement at least embodying herein assisting locating by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module

Docket No. BULB.14006 39 in such at least one solicitation template; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein at least one template module locator computer processor structured and arranged to assist locating by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module in such at least one solicitation template; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein template module locator computer processor means for assisting locating by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module in such at least one solicitation template). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other designer user interfaces, such as, for example, design upload interfaces, configuration upload interfaces, module design interfaces, etc., may suffice.

[0140] FIG. 14 shows a diagrammatic business flow chart view, illustrating interchange of compensation and innovation participation, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 13.

[0141] Social network 710 preferably provides at least one user account 734 to a plurality of users 715, as shown. User account 734 preferably entitles user 715 to access social network 710, preferably by supplying authenticated-user identification 732, as shown, preferably in the form of authentication (i.e. user name and password). Once on social network 710, user 715

preferably may access any content on social network 710.

[0142] Social network 710 preferably permits, preferably for compensation 736, online innovation community server environment 105 to preferably use outside content portal interface 727 (see FIG. 13) to provide content to users 715. To better provide such content to user 715, social network 710 preferably grants access to online innovation community server environment 105, to obtain authenticated-user identification 732 and preferably profile information 830 of user 715.

[0143] Online innovation community server environment 105 preferably obtains template 812 from template designer 756, as shown. Template 812 is preferably made available to innovation solicitation originator 750. Innovation solicitation originator 750 preferably chooses template 812 from among multiple templates 812, preferably to create innovation solicitation 810. Template 812 preferably comprises display options to completely customize the

appearance of innovation solicitation 810, preferably allowing photos, videos, color schemes, graphics, taglines, titles, to be altered for custom branding of innovation solicitation 810 (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one solicitation setup computer interface comprises at least one solicitation branding customizer computer interface structured and arranged to assist brand-customizing of such at least one solicitation with at least one brand of the at least one commercial entity). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those

Docket No. BULB.14006 40 skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other customizations, such as, for example, fonts, images, links, navigations, tags, etc., may suffice.

[0144] Innovation solicitation originator 750 preferably submits information to setup innovation solicitation 810 to online innovation community server environment 105.

Additionally, innovation solicitation originator 750 preferably renders compensation 760 for use of online innovation community server environment 105, as shown in FIG. 14. Innovation solicitation originator 750 preferably also selects at least one offering 822 of incentives 820 to provide to participants in innovation solicitation 810 and preferably submits offering 822 to online innovation community server environment 105, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate

circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other methods of selecting offerings, such as, for example, default selections, selection of offerings by parent corporations, selection of offerings by sponsors, etc., may suffice.

[0145] Online innovation community server environment 105 preferably presents innovation solicitation 810 and offering 822 of incentives 820 to online innovation community 705, as shown (this arrangement at least embodying herein at least one incentivizer computer processor structured and arranged to incentivize participation of the members of the at least one internet social network in such at least one solicitation to develop the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and, this arrangement at least embodying herein incentivizer computer processor means for incentivizing participation of the members of the at least one internet social network in such at least one solicitation to develop the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity). Additionally, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably provides at least one social incentive 738 to online innovation community 705, as shown. Social incentive 738 preferably comprises at least one social competition, alternately preferably, at least one social collaboration, alternately preferably at least one combination social competition and collaboration.

[0146] Online innovation community 705 preferably responds to innovation solicitation 810 with feedback 850, as shown. Feedback 850 preferably comprises at least one idea entry 853, alternately preferably at least one social rating 859, alternately preferably at least one comment 855, alternately preferably at least one innovation development 857, alternately preferably social statistical data 851, as shown. Feedback 850 preferably relates to innovation solicitation 810. Feedback 850 is preferably made available to online innovation community 705 through online

Docket No. BULB.14006 41 innovation community server environment 105, as shown, preferably while innovation solicitation 810 is active. Online innovation community 705 preferably provides social rating 859 to each idea entry 853. Likewise, online innovation community 705 preferably provides comments 855 to each idea entry 853. Social interaction within online innovation community 705, preferably from comments 855 and social rating 859, preferably provide innovation development 857. Online innovation community server environment 105 preferably provides feedback 850 to innovation solicitation originator 750, preferably as at least one service provided in exchange for compensation 760, as shown. Innovation solicitation 810 preferably directly solicits for feedback 850, preferably in the form of new ideas, alternately preferably in the form of market-testing surveys (at least embodying herein market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and, at least embodying herein at least one market survey computer processor structured and arranged to market-survey the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and, at least embodying herein market survey computer processor means for market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity), alternately preferably in the form of developing improvements to existing ideas.

[0147] As each user 715 of online innovation community 705 participates in innovation solicitation 810, user 715 preferably accumulates participation points redeemable for incentives 820 (this arrangement at least embodying herein incentivizing participation of the members of the at least one internet social network in such at least one solicitation to develop the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity).

Incentives 820 preferably are provided to user 715 from innovation solicitation originator 750, as shown. Incentives 820 preferably comprise at least one discount 821 on a product and/or service, alternately preferably at least one product 823, alternately preferably at least one gift card 825, alternately preferably at least one monetary prize 827, alternately preferably at least one raffle entry 829, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other incentives, such as, for example, gift vouchers, services, special event entries, etc., may suffice.

Docket No. BULB.14006 42 [0148] FIG. 15 shows a process flow chart view, illustrating solicitation process flow 800 to solicit innovation participation, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 14. Solicitation process flow preferably comprises the steps of Creating Solicitation Templates 871, Creating Innovation Solicitation 870, Establishing Online Innovation Community 865, Share Innovation Solicitation 880, Generate Feedback 890, and Distribute Rewards 860, as shown.

[0149] In step Creating Solicitation Templates 871, template designer 756 preferably creates templates for use in innovation solicitation 810. Designer user interface 746 preferably assists template designer 756 to construct template 812 (see FIG. 13). Alternately, designer user interface 746 preferably assists template designer 756 to upload template 812.

[0150] In step Creating Innovation Solicitation 870, innovation solicitation originator 750 preferably creates innovation solicitation 810. In step Creating Innovation Solicitation 870, innovation solicitation originator 750 preferably enters, through originator user interface 744 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one commercial-entity portal comprises at least one solicitation setup computer interface structured and arranged to assist setup of at least one solicitation to contribute to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and, at least herein embodying wherein such commercial-entity portal means comprises solicitation setup computer interface means for assisting setup, by at least one solicitation setup computer interface, of at least one solicitation to contribute to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and, at least herein embodying wherein such step of providing at least one commercial-entity portal comprises the step of assisting setup, by at least one solicitation setup computer interface, of at least one solicitation to contribute to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity), information for innovation solicitation 810, preferably titles, custom graphics, custom color schemes, content, participant instructions, display options, entry options, terms and conditions, and solicitation dates. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other innovation solicitation information, such as, for example, sponsors, tags, descriptions, demographic targets, etc., may suffice.

[0151] Step Creating Innovation Solicitation 870 preferably further comprises the steps of Selecting Display Template 872 and Establish Incentives 874, as shown. In step Selecting Display Template 872, solicitation template 812 is preferably chosen and display options are preferably selected by innovation solicitation originator 750. Originator user interface 744

Docket No. BULB.14006 43 preferably provides innovation solicitation originator 750 an interface with online innovation community server environment 105 (see FIG. 13), preferably permitting and preferably assisting in step Creating Innovation Solicitation 870 and step Selecting Display Template 872 (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises at least one solicitation template selector structured and arranged to assist selecting such at least one solicitation template to use in such at least one solicitation on such at least one internet-social-network member portal; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such commercial-entity portal means further comprises solicitation template selector means for assisting selecting such at least one solicitation template to use in such at least one solicitation on such internet-social-network member portal means; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such step of providing at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises the step of assisting selecting such at least one solicitation template to use in such at least one solicitation on such at least one member portal).

[0152] In step Establish Incentives 874, each incentive 820 to be offered in conjunction with innovation solicitation 810 is preferably entered. Each entry of incentive 820 preferably comprises at least one image and at least one description of incentive 820. Further, each entry of incentive 820 preferably comprises at least one earning requirement, preferably comprising participation points, alternately preferably average points, alternately preferably average moderator scores, alternately preferably cumulative ratings, alternately preferably minimum ratings. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, future measurements of participation, etc., other earning requirements, such as, for example, inviting friends, invited friends contributions, relational standing with other

participants, etc., may suffice.

[0153] In step Establishing Online Innovation Community 865, online innovation

community server environment 105, preferably serves content portal 730 to social network 710, preferably to establish a social network presence. Step Establishing Online Innovation

Community 865 preferably further comprises the steps of Recruit Users 876, Provide Social Competition 878, and Provide Social Cooperation 882, as shown. User 715 preferably joins online innovation community 705 in step Recruit Users 876, preferably through content portal 730 (see FIG. 13). Further, in step Recruit Users 876, user 715 preferably encourages others to join, preferably by inviting users of social network 710 with whom they are networked to. By so permitting inviting network "friends" to participate, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably encourages social cooperation in step Provide Social Cooperation

Docket No. BULB.14006 44 882 (at least herein embodying wherein such at least one social incentive establisher computer interface comprises at least one social cooperation establisher computer interface structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one cooperation offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity). Further, when engaged in innovation solicitation 810, interacting with such network "friends" preferably earns points for user 715.

[0154] In step Provide Social Competition 878 (at least herein embodying wherein such step of providing at least one member portal further comprises the step of generating competition between such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network; and, at least herein embodying wherein such at least one internet-social-network member portal further comprises at least one participation competition generator structured and arranged to generate competition between such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network; and, at least herein embodying wherein such internet- social-network member portal means further comprises participation competition generator means for generating competition between such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network), online innovation community server environment 105 preferably provides at least one leaderboard, preferably within innovation solicitation 810. Such at least one leaderboard preferably comprises a ranking of participation among online innovation community 705, alternately preferably a ranking of participation among such network "friends". This arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such step of generating competition comprises ranking, according to value, of such at least one participation contribution collectively made by each such at least one participating member; and, this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such at least one participation competition generator comprises at least one participation ranking computer processor structured and arranged to rank, according to value of participation, contributions made by each such at least one participating member; and, this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such participation competition generator means comprises participation ranking computer processor means for ranking, according to value, of such at least one participation contribution collectively made by each such at least one participating member. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other competition and cooperation engagements, such as, for example, team competitions, categorized competitions, team development of presentation before submission, etc., may suffice.

Docket No. BULB.14006 45 [0155] Step Share Innovation Solicitation 880 preferably comprises the steps of Present Innovation Solicitation 884, Present Incentives 886, and Assist Social Sharing 888, as shown. In step Present Innovation Solicitation 884, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably makes innovation solicitation 810 available through community user interface 740 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one internet-social-network member portal comprises at least one presenter structured and arranged to present at least one plurality of such at least one solicitation from the plurality of commercial entities to members of the at least one internet social network; and, at least herein embodying wherein such internet-social-network member portal means comprises presenter means for presenting at least one plurality of such at least one solicitation from the plurality of commercial entities to members of the at least one internet social network; and, at least herein embodying wherein such step of providing at least one member portal comprises the step of presenting at least one plurality of such at least one solicitation from the plurality of commercial entities to members of the at least one internet social network) (see FIG. 13) to online innovation community 705. In step Present Incentives 886, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably associates, in presentation of innovation solicitation 810, in community user interface 740 (at least herein embodying at least one incentive establisher computer interface structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and, at least herein embodying incentive establisher computer interface means for assisting establishing, through such at least one incentive establisher computer interface, at least one incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity), incentives 820 of incentive offering 822 with innovation solicitation 810 (this arrangement at least herein embodying assisting establishing, through such at least one incentive establisher computer interface, at least one incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity).

[0156] In step Assist Social Sharing 888, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably provides user 715, through community user interface 740, at least one method to share innovation solicitation 810 with other users of social network 710.

Docket No. BULB.14006 46 [0157] Further, online innovation community server environment 105, preferably through incentives 820, preferably promotes sharing of innovation solicitation 810 with other users of social network 710. Even further, online innovation community server environment 105

preferably promotes social cooperation by providing displays and tools for user 715 to interact with other users 715 and their contributions to innovation solicitation 810, preferably particularly users 715 who share "friend" connections in social network 710. Likewise, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably promotes social competition by providing rankings of users 715 as well as separate rankings of users 715 sharing "friend" connections in social network 710. In effect, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably provides the tools and incentives to drive social promotion of innovation solicitation 810 in social network 710, preferably reaching a broad audience to leverage the talents, skills, minds, and time of at least one portion of social network 710.

[0158] In step Generate Feedback 890, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably provides, preferably through community user interface 740 (at least herein embodying wherein such internet-social-network member portal means further comprises participation contribution collector computer interface means for assisting collecting, through at least one solicitation participator computer interface, at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network; and, at least herein embodying wherein such internet-social-network portal further comprises at least one participation contribution collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network; and, at least herein embodying wherein such step of providing at least one member portal further comprises the step of assisting collecting, through at least one solicitation participator computer interface, at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network)(see FIG. 13), tools for user 715 to respond to innovation solicitation 810. Step

Generate Feedback 890 preferably comprises the steps of Assist Entry Submission 892, Assist Comment Submission 894, Assist and Track Rating of Submissions 896, Generate Statistics 898, Track Points Earned 863, and Assist Moderation 867, as shown.

[0159] In step Assist Entry Submission 892, community user interface 740 is structured and arranged to provide submission entry forms, preferably to assist user 715 to contribute by submitting at least one entry. Such at least one entry preferably comprises idea entry 853, alternately preferably at least one potential solution, relating to innovation solicitation 810. Idea

Docket No. BULB.14006 47 entry 853 preferably comprises at least one written entry, alternately preferably at least one video entry, alternately preferably at least one graphic entry (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one participation contribution collector computer interface comprises at least one at least one video contribution collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one video contribution relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network). Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other entry types, such as, for example, audio entries, excerpt entries, nomination entries, etc., may suffice.

[0160] Likewise, in step Assist Comment Submission 894, community user interface 740 is structured and arranged to preferably provide comment submission forms, preferably to assist user 715 to contribute by submitting at least one comment, preferably relating to such at least one entry, alternately preferably relating to at least one other comment (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one participation contribution collector computer interface comprises at least one at least one comment collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one comment relating to such at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network).

[0161] In step Assist and Track Rating of Submissions 896, community user interface 740 is structured and arranged to provide rating interfaces for users 715, preferably to rate such at least one entry and preferably to rate such at least one comment, preferably submitted by users 715. In addition, in step Assist and Track Rating of Submissions 896 (at least herein embodying wherein such step of generating competition comprises the step of assisting rating of such at least one participation contribution by such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network), online innovation community server environment 105

preferably also accumulates social ratings 859, preferably to track social ratings 859 (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one participation contribution collector computer interface comprises at least one at least one rating collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one rating relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network). Social ratings 859 preferably comprise at least one scale rating (i.e. 5 stars, numeric 1 to 10, etc.), alternately preferably at least one binary rating (ie. thumbs up/down, yes/no, agree/disagree, etc.). Social ratings 859 preferably are useable for either at least one

Docket No. BULB.14006 48 voting/comparative type rating, or alternately preferably for at least one content type rating. This arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such at least one participation contribution collector computer interface comprises at least one at least one voting collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one voting relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network.

[0162] By permitting submission of such ratings, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably promotes competition between idea entries 853 among online innovation community 705 (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such step of providing at least one member portal further comprises the step of generating competition between at least two of such at least one participation contribution; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one internet-social-network member portal further comprises at least one idea competition generator structured and arranged to generate

competition between at least two of such at least one participation contribution; and, this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such internet-social-network member portal means further comprises idea competition generator means for generating competition between at least two of such at least one participation contribution). This arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such at least one idea competition generator comprises at least one

contribution rating computer processor structured and arranged to assist rating of such at least one participation contribution by such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network; and, this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such idea competition generator means comprises contribution rating computer processor means for assisting rating of such at least one participation contribution by such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network.

[0163] In step Generate Statistics 898, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably accumulates statistics, preferably on interactions with innovation solicitation 810, alternately preferably such at least one entry related to innovation solicitation 810. Such statistics preferably comprise number of views, alternately preferably comment counts, alternately preferably rating averages, alternately preferably recruitment statistics.

[0164] In Track Points Earned 863, online innovation community server environment 105 (at least embodying herein at least one participation tracker computer processor structured and arranged to track such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and, at least embodying

Docket No. BULB.14006 49 herein participation tracker computer processor means for tracking such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity) preferably tracks participation of user 715 in innovation solicitation 810 (at least embodying herein tracking such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity). Preferably, for every activity user 715 participates in, user 715 preferably receives at least one earned point. Innovation solicitation originator 750 preferably sets participation points received for each participation activity, preferably during step Creating Innovation Solicitation 870. This arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such at least one participation tracker computer processor comprises at least one participation point tracker computer processor structured and arranged to track at least one plurality of participation points associated with such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

[0165] Such at least one entry, such at least one comment, such ratings, such statistics, and such at least one earned point are preferably used in community user interface 740 (see FIG. 13). Community user interface 740 preferably displays such at least one entry, such at least one comment, such ratings, such statistics, and such at least one earned point, preferably according to view access rights of user 715. In use, such at least one entry, such at least one comment, such ratings, such statistics, and such at least one earned point are preferably displayed to further incite more feedback from user 715.

[0166] In Assist Moderation 867, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably provides moderator user interface 742 to moderators from among users 715, as designated by innovation solicitation originator 750. In addition, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably assists user 715, through community user interface 740, to report abuse in innovation marketplace system 700 (this arrangement at least herein embodying wherein such at least one participation contribution collector computer interface comprises at least one at least one abuse report collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one abuse report relating to such at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network). Abuse reports are preferably made available to moderators and administrators so that corrective action can be taken.

Docket No. BULB.14006 50 [0167] In step Distribute Rewards 860, all rewards, including feedback 850, are distributed to the appropriate recipient. Step Distribute Rewards 860 preferably comprises the steps of Assist Point Redemption 862, Determine Competition Rewards 864, Assist Prize Delivery 866, and Compile and Transmit Feedback 868, as shown.

[0168] In step Assist Point Redemption 862, online innovation community server environment 105 (at least herein embodying at least one incentive redemption computer processor structured and arranged to assist each such participating member to redeem such at least one incentive according to such participation contributions made by such participating member; and, at least herein embodying incentive redemption computer processor means for assisting each such participating member to redeem such at least one incentive according to such participation contributions made by such participating member) preferably provides community user interface 740 with at least one redemption interface to redeem earned points 945 (see FIG. 17) for incentive 820. Such at least one redemption interface preferably only allows redemption of incentives 820 when user 715 has enough earned points 945 (this arrangement at least herein embodying incentive redemption computer processor means for assisting each such participating member to redeem such at least one incentive according to such participation contributions made by such participating member). Further, such at least one redemption interface preferably gathers redemption information from user 715, preferably comprising name, address, phone number, email address and other personal information, which is needed to deliver incentive 820.

[0169] In step Determine Competition Rewards 864, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably determines, preferably at the end of a competition, who in the competition fulfills the requirements to obtain a competition reward. Such competitions and the rules of qualification for such competition reward preferably are set by innovation solicitation originator 750 in step Creating Innovation Solicitation 870. In use, innovation solicitation originator 750 may preferably choose to reward at least one high ranking user, preferably in earned points 945, alternately preferably in submitted entries, alternately preferably in average user rating.

[0170] Alternately, competitions preferably comprise fulfilling certain conditions to receive such competition reward. Such competition reward preferably comprises incentive 820, preferably at least one discount 821 on a product and/or service, alternately preferably at least one product 823, alternately preferably at least one gift card 825, alternately preferably at least one monetary prize 827, alternately preferably at least one raffle entry 829, alternately preferably at least one social incentive 738, as shown in FIG. 14. Social incentive 738 preferably comprises at least one demarcation in online innovation community 705 of achieving the requisites of

Docket No. BULB.14006 51 receiving social incentive 738. Such at least one demarcation preferably comprises at least one badge, preferably visible to other users 715. This arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such at least one incentive establisher computer interface comprises at least one social incentive establisher computer interface structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one social incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

[0171] Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other competitions, such as, for example, cumulative friend participation, moderator/administrator ranking, statistically driven competitions, etc., may suffice. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other rewards, such as, for example, bolded names, priority listing of submissions, color changes associated with names, featuring user in competition advertisement, etc., may suffice.

[0172] In step Assist Prize Delivery 866, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably keeps track of which users are owed incentives 820, and preferably which incentives 820 have been sent and delivered. An administrator using originator user interface 744 (see FIG. 13) and/or a moderator using moderator user interface 742 (see FIG. 13) preferably may access and update such tracking of incentives 820. Further, such administrator and/or such moderator may preferably disqualify user 715, preferably for rules violations, and may preferably cancel delivery of incentives 820.

[0173] In step Compile and Transmit Feedback 868, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably compiles feedback 850. Further, online innovation community server environment 105 preferably delivers feedback 850 to innovation solicitation originator 750. This arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises at least one participation contribution deliverer computer interface structured and arranged to deliver such at least one participation contribution of at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network relating to such at least one solicitation of the at least one commercial entity; and, this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such commercial-entity portal means further comprises participation contribution deliverer computer interface means for delivering such at least one participation contribution of at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network relating to such at least one solicitation of the at least one commercial entity; and, this arrangement at least herein

Docket No. BULB.14006 52 embodies wherein such step of providing at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises the step of delivering such at least one participation contribution of at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network relating to such at least one solicitation of the at least one commercial entity.

[0174] Innovation marketplace system 700 preferably accesses a large pool of potential assistants (social network 710) for innovation solicitation originator 750 to preferably establish a smaller pool of assistants (online innovation community 705), the make-up of which is preferably based on the interest of such assistants in innovation solicitation 810 and will preferably vary from one innovation solicitation 810 to another. Innovation marketplace system 700 preferably then generates relevant feedback and assistance to innovation solicitation 810 using online innovation community 705. Preferably, Innovation marketplace system 700 then rewards such assistants for their contributions to innovation solicitation 810.

[0175] FIG. 16 shows a process flow chart view, illustrating recursive template process flow 900, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 15. FIG. 17 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating recursive template process flow 900, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 16. With reference to FIG. 16, FIG. 17, and FIG. 18, those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that upon reading this specification and by their understanding the art of programming as described herein, methods of coding and programming sufficient to replicate recursive template process flow 900, master template 813, and template 812, in addition to other aspects of the herein described invention such art will be understood by those knowledgeable in such art.

[0176] Recursive template process flow 900 preferably permits at least one nested modular template construction 905 (see FIG. 17), preferably without complicating data processing, preferably by recursive process 912 (see FIG. 18). Template 812 preferably comprises nested modular template construction 905, as shown in FIG. 17. Nested modular template construction 905 (at least embodying herein at least one function modularizer computer processor structured and arranged to modularize at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation in such at least one solicitation template to process each such at least one processing function within at least one function module; and, at least embodying herein function modularizer computer processor means for modularizing at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation in such at least one solicitation template to process each such at least one processing function within at least one function module; and, at least embodying herein modularizing at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation in such at least one solicitation template to process each such at least one processing function within at least one function module) preferably comprises at least one nested module 915, as shown in FIG. 17. Nested

Docket No. BULB.14006 53 module 915 preferably comprises at least one frame 932, alternately preferably at least one page 934, alternately preferably at least one page element 936, as shown. Nested module 915 may preferably be nested within another nested module 915, as shown in FIG. 17.

[0177] Each nested module 915 preferably is associated with at least one originator user interface 744 (see FIG. 18). Nested module 915 preferably comprises at least one variable 978. Originator user interface 744 preferably permits at least one administrator to preferably set at least one variable 978 within nested module 915. Variable 978 preferably determines at least one display parameter, alternately preferably at least one data parameter, alternately preferably use conditions. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, future technologies, etc., other variables, such as, for example, tags, constants, titles, function references, links, etc., may suffice.

[0178] Master template 813 preferably comprises (in a nested manner) at least one social network frame 920, at least one portal frame 930, at least one solicitation frame 940, at least one page 950, preferably constructing a webpage 907, as shown in FIG. 17. Social network frame 920 preferably comprises outside content portal interface 727 (see FIG. 13), preferably integrating the look and feel of social network 710 into display of webpage 907. Social network frame 920 preferably has access to variables 978 from social network, preferably authenticated- user identification 732 and profile information 830 (see FIG. 14). Portal frame 930 preferably comprises content portal 730 (see FIG. 13). Content portal 730 preferably comprises at least one common access point to multiple innovation solicitations 810, preferably from multiple innovation solicitation originators 750 for user 715. Solicitation frame 940 preferably comprises innovation solicitation 810. Solicitation frame 940 preferably has access to variables 978 relating to innovation solicitation 810. Page 950 preferably comprises at least one display page for innovation solicitation 810.

[0179] Portal frame 930 and social network frame 920 preferably exist in every master template 813. Solicitation frame 940 and page 950 preferably comprise template 812. Master template 813 preferably contains multiple innovation solicitations 810, preferably using a variety of templates 812, from a plurality of innovation solicitation originators 750. Any nested module 915 preferably may contain at least one process module 960, as shown in FIG. 17. Process module 960 preferably comprises at least one computer function for execution, preferably related to interfacing with webpage 907.

[0180] Process module 960 preferably requires access to at least one of variables 978. In order to expedite execution of process module 960 (preferably increasing page

Docket No. BULB.14006 54 rendering/interaction speeds), process module 960 preferably utilizes recursive template process flow 900, as shown in FIG. 16. When process module 960 begins (step Begin Process 902), process module 960 preferably checks available variables 978 within the scope of nesting of process module 960 (nested module 915), in step Check Variables 904, as shown. In step Decide If All Data is Available 908, process module 960 preferably decides if all variables 978, which are needed for execution, are available. If not all variables 978 which are needed by process module 960 are accessible for execution of process module 960 (in step Decide If All Data is Available 908) , process module 960 preferably increases the scope of nesting to include nested module 915 which is the parent nest, in step Increase Scope 906, as shown. In step Increase Scope 906, process module 960 preferably incorporates code from the parent nest. Once the scope of nesting increases, process module 960 again preferably checks for access to variables 978 needed for execution, preferably by repeating step Check Variables 904, step Decide If All Data is Available 908, and Increase Scope 906, preferably recursively until, in step Decide If All Data is Available 908, process module 960 preferably determines all variables are now accessible. Once all variables are accessible, process module 960 preferably executes, in step Run Function 910, as shown. This arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such step of modularizing at least one processing function comprises the step of recursively processing such at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation while increasing at least one processing scope to include at least one parent-nesting function module on each recursion until all required data to complete such at least one processing function is available within such at least one processing scope; and, this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such at least one function modularizer computer processor comprises at least one recursive function computer processor structured and arranged to recursively process such at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation while increasing at least one processing scope to include at least one parent-nesting function module on each recursion until all required data to complete such at least one processing function is available within such at least one processing scope; and, this arrangement at least herein embodies wherein such function modularizer computer processor means comprises recursive function computer processor means for recursively processing such at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation while increasing at least one processing scope to include at least one parent-nesting function module on each recursion until all required data to complete such at least one processing function is available within such at least one processing scope.

[0181] In use, as an example, Process 962 (shown on FIG. 17) requires variable 975 and variable 977 to execute. If process 962 does not have the coding to access either variable 975

Docket No. BULB.14006 55 (data in feedback 850) or variable 977 (data in earned points 945), process 962 preferably searches the parent nest (page 950), and preferably incorporates any code found therein. As shown in FIG. 17, code exists to access feedback 850 in page 950. Therefore variable 975 is now accessible, however variable 977 still is not. Process 962 preferably then searches the next parent node (solicitation frame 940) where process 962 preferably finds code to access earned points 945, preferably filling the need for variable 977. Now that both variable 975 and variable 977 are accessible, process 962 preferably executes.

[0182] Likewise, as a second example, if process 964 needs variable 963 (data from authenticated-user identification 732), variable 965 (data from social network relationship 925) and variable 967 (data from solicitation rights 935) to execute (see FIG. 17), recursive template process flow 900 preferably dictates that process 964 preferably expands scope to include solicitation frame 940, then to portal frame 930, where process 964 preferably locates data from solicitation rights 935, preferably rendering variable 967 accessible. Process 964 then preferably further expands scope to social network frame 920, where process 964 preferably locates data from authenticated-user identification 732 and data from social network relationship 925 preferably rendering variable 963 and variable 965 accessible, as shown. .

[0183] Applicant has noted significant execution speed increases by utilizing recursive template process flow 900 over traditional methods of webpage module programming, which include all functional code needed for the entire function which often duplicates code in other modules on the webpage. Rather, process module 960, using recursive template process flow 900, preferably only need to contain unique coding found nowhere else in the webpage.

[0184] FIG. 18 shows a diagrammatic view, illustrating nested modular template interaction, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 17.

[0185] An administrator preferably has access to each originator user interface 744 (see FIG. 13) based on access rights. Administrator 680, with social network level access rights, preferably has access to administrator user interface 681 for social network frame 920, as shown. Administrator 682, with portal level access rights, preferably has access to administrator user interface 683 for portal frame 930, as shown. Administrator 688, with innovation solicitation level access rights, preferably has access to administrator user interface 689 for solicitation frame 940, as shown. Administrator 684, with page level access rights, preferably has access to administrator user interface 685 for page 950, as shown. Administrator 686, with process level access rights, preferably has access to administrator user interface 687 for process module 960, as shown. In use, administration rights are preferably mixed according to need and administrator

Docket No. BULB.14006 56 688, administrator 684 and administrator 686 are preferably combined for a master administrator over innovation solicitation 810.

[0186] Each nested module 915 (see FIG. 17) preferably comprises variables 978 preferably comprising at least one display variable 998 and at least one data variable 999, as shown. Each originator user interface 744 (see FIG. 13) preferably grants variable setting 690 of nested module 915 to which originator user interface 744 is preferably associated. Variable setting 690 preferably permits user-entry of variables 978.

[0187] In use, administrator 688, with complete innovation solicitation level access rights, preferably sets access rights to each nested module 915 within solicitation frame 940. At least one of pages 950 preferably may be viewable only by moderators, preferably comprising moderator user interface 742 (see FIG. 13). Other pages 950 are preferably viewable to all users 715, preferably comprising community user interface 740 (see FIG. 13).

[0188] FIG. 19 through FIG. 32 show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating an example of originator user interface 744 for administrating solicitation invitation 810, according to preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[0189] FIG. 19 through FIG. 26 and FIG. 32 show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating an example of originator user interface 744 for creating solicitation invitation 810, according to preferred embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 19 through FIG. 26 and FIG. 32 are examples of originator user interface 744 as utilized in step Creating Innovation Solicitation 870. Additionally, FIG. 19 through FIG. 23 and FIG. 26 are examples of an originator user interface 744 to setup innovation solicitation 810. Additionally, FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 are examples of an originator user interface 744 as utilized in step Establish Incentives 874. FIG. 27 through FIG. 30 show an exemplary screenshot views, illustrating an example of originator user interface 744 as utilized in distributing incentives 820. FIG. 31 shows an exemplary screenshot view, illustrating an example of originator user interface 744 as utilized in receiving social statistical data 851. Additionally, FIG. 32 is an example of originator user interface 744 as utilized to establish moderator rights.

[0190] FIG. 33 and FIG. 34 show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating an example of moderator user interface 742 for moderating solicitation invitation 810, according to preferred embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 33 and FIG. 34 show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating an example of moderator user interface 742 as utilized in moderating innovation solicitation 810, as in step Assist Moderation 867.

[0191] FIG. 35 through FIG. 47 show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating an example of at community user interface 740 for participating in solicitation invitation 810, according to

Docket No. BULB.14006 57 preferred embodiments of the present invention. In particular, FIG. 35 shows an exemplary screenshot view, illustrating content portal 730. Also, FIG. 36 and FIG. 39 show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating one example of innovation solicitation 810. In addition, FIG. 37 and FIG. 40 show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating examples of listings of idea entries 853. FIG. 41A and FIG. 41B show exemplary screenshot views, illustrating one example of entry submission form as utilized in step Assist Entry Submission 892. Moreover, FIG. 42 shows an exemplary screenshot view, illustrating one example of a friend invitation form as utilized in step Assist Social Sharing 888. Also, FIG. 43 shows an exemplary screenshot view, illustrating one example of a point redemption form as utilized in step Assist Point Redemption 862. In addition FIG. 44 shows an exemplary screenshot view, illustrating one example of a receiving screen for Social incentive 738 as utilized in step Determine Competition Rewards 864. Moreover, FIG. 47 shows an exemplary screenshot view, illustrating one example of a user agreement.

[0192] Although FIG. 19 through FIG. 47 are provided as exemplary screenshots to assist understanding applicant's preferred embodiments, it will be understood that the textual content of these screenshots is to give a general idea of layout and general function (when read in context with the rest of this specification) and not for the specific wording of the text. In addition, some text has been rendered intentionally unreadable to prevent disclosure of private information (such as contact information), which information is not needed to understand the content of these screenshots.

[0193] Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of this invention includes modifications such as diverse shapes, sizes, and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read in connection with the above specification. Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and the below claims.

Docket No. BULB.14006 58

Claims

What is claimed is:

A system, relating to leveraging at least one internet social network in developing at least one idea relating to at least one commercial offering of at least one commercial entity of a plurality of commercial entities, comprising:

a) at least one internet-social-network member portal structured and arranged to provide at least one member portal open to members of the at least one internet social network; and

b) at least one commercial-entity portal structured and arranged to provide at least one commercial-entity portal open to the plurality of commercial entities to solicit development of the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering;

c) wherein said at least one commercial-entity portal comprises at least one

solicitation setup computer interface structured and arranged to assist setup of at least one solicitation to contribute to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity;

d) wherein said at least one internet-social-network member portal comprises at least one presenter structured and arranged to present at least one plurality of such at least one solicitation from the plurality of commercial entities to members of the at least one internet social network;

e) wherein said internet-social-network portal further comprises at least one

participation contribution collector computer interface structured and arranged to assist collecting at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network;

f) wherein said at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises at least one participation contribution deliverer computer interface structured and arranged to deliver such at least one participation contribution of at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network relating to such at least one solicitation of the at least one commercial entity; and

g) wherein the plurality of commercial entities each receive leveraging of the at least one internet social network in developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of each commercial entity respectively.

The system according to Claim 1 further comprising at least one market survey computer processor structured and arranged to market-survey the members of the at least one

Docket No. BULB.14006 59 internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

The system according to Claim 1 further comprising at least one incentivizer computer processor structured and arranged to incentivize participation of the members of the at least one internet social network in such at least one solicitation to develop the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

The system according to Claim 3 further comprising at least one market survey computer processor structured and arranged to market-survey the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

The system according to Claim 4 wherein said at least one incentivizer computer processor comprises:

a) at least one incentive establisher computer interface structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity;

b) at least one participation tracker computer processor structured and arranged to track such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and

c) at least one incentive redemption computer processor structured and arranged to assist each such participating member to redeem such at least one incentive according to such participation contributions made by such participating member.

The system according to Claim 5 further comprising at least one market survey computer processor structured and arranged to market-survey the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

Docket No. BULB.14006 60 The system according to Claim 5 wherein said at least one incentive establisher computer interface comprises at least one social incentive establisher computer interface structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one social incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation

contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

The system according to Claim 7 wherein said at least one social incentive establisher computer interface comprises at least one social cooperation establisher computer interface structured and arranged to assist establishing at least one cooperation offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

The system according to Claim 5 wherein said at least one participation tracker computer processor comprises at least one participation point tracker computer processor structured and arranged to track at least one plurality of participation points associated with such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

The system according to Claim 1 wherein said at least one internet-social-network member portal further comprises at least one idea competition generator structured and arranged to generate competition between at least two of such at least one participation contribution.

The system according to Claim 10 wherein said at least one idea competition generator comprises at least one contribution rating computer processor structured and arranged to assist rating of such at least one participation contribution by such at least one

participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network.

The system according to Claim 1 wherein said at least one internet-social-network member portal further comprises at least one participation competition generator structured and arranged to generate competition between such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network.

The system according to Claim 12 wherein said at least one participation competition generator comprises at least one participation ranking computer processor structured and arranged to rank, according to value of participation, contributions made by each such at least one participating member.

Docket No. BULB.14006 61 The system according to Claim 1 further comprising at least one authentication sharing computer processor structured and arranged to share social -network-user-authentication of the at least one internet social network with said at least one internet-social-network member portal and said at least one commercial-entity portal.

The system according to Claim 14 wherein said at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises:

a) at least one administration rights assignor computer processor structured and arranged to assist assigning administration rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one administration member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and b) at least one administrator rights associator computer processor structured and arranged to associate such administration rights to such user-authentication of such at least one administration member.

The system according to Claim 15 wherein said at least one administration rights assignor computer processor comprises:

a) at least one moderator rights assignor computer processor structured and arranged to assist assigning moderation rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one moderator member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and

b) at least one moderator rights associator computer processor structured and

arranged to associate such moderator rights to such user-authentication of such at least one moderator member.

The system according to Claim 1 further comprising:

a) at least one solicitation template creation portal structured and arranged to provide at least one solicitation template creation portal open to at least one template creator member from the members of the at least one internet social network; b) wherein said at least one solicitation template creation portal comprises at least one solicitation template creation computer interface structured and arranged to create at least one solicitation template; and

c) wherein said at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises at least one solicitation template selector structured and arranged to assist selecting such at least one solicitation template to use in such at least one solicitation on said at least one internet-social-network member portal.

Docket No. BULB.14006 62 18) The system according to Claim 17 further comprising at least one function modularizer computer processor structured and arranged to modularize at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation in such at least one solicitation template to process each such at least one processing function within at least one function module.

19) The system according to Claim 18 wherein said at least one solicitation template creation computer interface comprises:

a) at least one template module selector computer processor structured and arranged to assist selecting by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module to include in such at least one solicitation template; b) at least one template module locator computer processor structured and arranged to assist locating by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module in such at least one solicitation template; and

c) at least one template-module nesting computer processor structured and arranged to assist nesting such at least one function module inside another such at least one function module.

20) The system according to Claim 19 wherein said at least one function modularizer

computer processor comprises at least one recursive function computer processor structured and arranged to recursively process such at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation while increasing at least one processing scope to include at least one parent-nesting function module on each recursion until all required data to complete such at least one processing function is available within such at least one processing scope.

21) A computer implemented method, relating to leveraging at least one internet social

network in developing at least one idea relating to at least one commercial offering of at least one commercial entity of a plurality of commercial entities, comprising the steps of: a) providing at least one member portal open to members of the at least one internet social network; and

b) providing at least one commercial-entity portal open to the plurality of

commercial entities to solicit development of the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering;

c) wherein said step of providing at least one commercial-entity portal comprises the step of assisting setup, by at least one solicitation setup computer interface, of at least one solicitation to contribute to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity;

Docket No. BULB.14006 63 d) wherein said step of providing at least one member portal comprises the step of presenting at least one plurality of such at least one solicitation from the plurality of commercial entities to members of the at least one internet social network; e) wherein said step of providing at least one member portal further comprises the step of assisting collecting, through at least one solicitation participator computer interface, at least one participation contribution, relating to such at least one solicitation, made by at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network;

f) wherein said step of providing at least one commercial-entity portal further

comprises the step of delivering such at least one participation contribution of at least one member of the members of the at least one internet social network relating to such at least one solicitation of the at least one commercial entity; and g) wherein the plurality of commercial entities each receive leveraging of the at least one internet social network in developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of each commercial entity respectively.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 21 further comprising the step of market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 21 further comprising the step of incentivizing participation of the members of the at least one internet social network in such at least one solicitation to develop the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 23 further comprising the step of market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 23 wherein said step of incentivizing participation comprises the steps of:

a) assisting establishing, through such at least one incentive establisher computer interface, at least one incentive to offer to the members of the at least one internet social network, obtainable according to participation contributions made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity;

Docket No. BULB.14006 64 b) tracking such participation contributions of each participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network made to developing the at least one idea relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity; and

c) assisting each such participating member to redeem such at least one incentive according to such participation contributions made by such participating member.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 25 further comprising the step of market-surveying the members of the at least one internet social network about the at least one idea and/or such at least one participation contribution relating to the at least one commercial offering of the at least one commercial entity.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 21 wherein said step of providing at least one member portal further comprises the step of generating competition between at least two of such at least one participation contribution.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 27 wherein said step of generating competition comprises the step of assisting rating of such at least one participation contribution by such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 25 wherein said step of providing at least one member portal further comprises the step of generating competition between such at least one participating member of the members of the at least one internet social network.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 29 wherein said step of generating competition comprises ranking, according to value, of such at least one participation contribution collectively made by each such at least one participating member.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 21 further comprising the step of sharing social-network-user-authentication of the at least one internet social network with such at least one member portal and such at least one commercial-entity portal open. The computer implemented method according to Claim 31 wherein said step of providing at least one commercial-entity portal further comprises the steps of:

a) assisting assigning administration rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one administration member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and

Docket No. BULB.14006 65 b) associating such administration rights to such social-network-user-authentication of such at least one administration member.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 32 wherein said step of assisting assigning administration rights comprises the steps of:

a) assisting assigning moderation rights relating to such at least one solicitation to at least one moderator member from the members of the internet social network as authorized by the at least one corporate entity; and

b) associating such moderator rights to such social-network-user-authentication of such at least one moderator member.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 21 further comprising the steps of:

a) providing at least one solicitation template creation portal open to at least one template creator member from the members of the at least one internet social network;

b) wherein said step of providing at least one solicitation template creation portal comprises the step of creating at least one solicitation template; and c) wherein said step of providing at least one commercial-entity portal further

comprises the step of assisting selecting such at least one solicitation template to use in such at least one solicitation on such at least one member portal.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 34 further comprising the step of modularizing at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation in such at least one solicitation template to process each such at least one processing function within at least one function module.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 35 wherein said step of providing at least one solicitation template creation portal comprises the steps of:

a) assisting selecting by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module to include in such at least one solicitation template; b) assisting locating by such at least one template creator member such at least one function module in such at least one solicitation template;

c) assisting nesting such at least one function module inside another such at least one function module.

The computer implemented method according to Claim 36 wherein said step of modularizing at least one processing function comprises the step of recursively processing such at least one processing function of such at least one solicitation while

Docket No. BULB.14006 66 increasing at least one processing scope to include at least one parent-nesting function module on each recursion until all required data to complete such at least one processing function is available within such at least one processing scope.

Docket No. BULB.14006 67