WO2014172491A1 - System for managing employee apparel purchases - Google Patents

Abstract

An employer-customizable digital storefront adapted to selectively offer apparel choices to employees based on gender and job title.

Description

SYSTEM FOR MANAGING EMPLOYEE APPAREL PURCHASES

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.

61/812,605, filed April 16, 2013.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Disclosed Subject Matter

[0002] The disclosed subject matter relates to a digital storefront for managing selection and purchasing of uniform apparel. Particularly, the presently disclosed subject matter is directed to systems and methods for an employer-managed employee-apparel program whereby, for example, the employer chooses apparel options for the employee, the employer purchases the apparel for the employee, and the employee selects desired apparel from the apparel options chosen by the employer.

Description of Related Art

[0003] Businesses in the service sector (e.g., retail, food service) frequently require their employees to wear specific uniforms. As a result, distributing, cleaning, and managing uniform inventory is both a time consuming task and a large cost to firms. Furthermore, instructing employees on what accessories they should independently purchase to wear with their uniforms (e.g., shoes, belts, socks) can be difficult since the employer has little control over the suppliers for these items.

[0004] Accordingly, there remains a need to reduce or eliminate the uniform-related obligations of service industry employers through the creation of a digital storefront that allows employees to directly order their own uniforms and accessories. There also remains a need to reduce the amount of time and energy devoted to uniform logistics by firms and to directly engage employees in their work-apparel decisions.

Copyright Notice

[0005] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

SUMMARY

[0006] In one aspect, an employer-customizable digital storefront is adapted to selectively offer apparel choices to employees based on gender and job title. In one

embodiment, the system comprises a digital storefront adapted to selectively provide employer- selected apparel choices to an employee that accesses the digital storefront. The apparel offerings are customized such that the employer-selected apparel can be based on the employee's gender and position within the company, i.e., job title. The store front enables the employee to purchase the apparel electronically and the purchased apparel can be shipped directed to the employee. Thus, the employer need not be involved in the transaction or delivery of the purchases.

[0007] In one embodiment, the system is programmed to suggest one or more employer- recommended accessories based on a first apparel selection made by the employee.

Alternatively, the recommended accessories may be based on a wardrobe tutorial. [0008] In another aspect, the system provides a digital storefront for a plurality of employers. In this regard, authorized employees from particular employers have a secure password to access their respective employer-selected apparel.

[0009] The system can be configured to process payment as known in the art. In one embodiment, the system can be adapted to process an order or purchase by a line of credit marketed to the employee.

[0010] The system may include an employee module and an employer module. For example, the employee module can include a wardrobe tool adapted to provide suggested customized choices based on gender and job title. In this regard, the wardrobe tool may include videos or a photo gallery to facilitate apparel selections. The employer module can include an electronic message board or electronic mail to transmit information between employer and employee.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] A detailed description of various aspects, features, and embodiments of the subject matter described herein is provided with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. The drawings are illustrative and are not necessarily drawn to scale, with some components and features being exaggerated for clarity. The drawings illustrate various aspects and features of the present subject matter and may illustrate one or more embodiment(s) or example(s) of the present subject matter in whole or in part.

[0012] Figure 1 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. [0013] Figure 2 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0014] Figure 3 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0015] Figure 4 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0016] Figure 5 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0017] Figure 6 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0018] Figure 7 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0019] Figure 8 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0020] Figure 9 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0021] Figure 10 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0022] Figure 11 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0023] Figure 12 illustrates a method of enrolling a new employee according to an embodiment of the disclosure subject matter. [0024] Figure 13 illustrates a method of ordering by an existing employee according to an embodiment of the disclosure subject matter.

[0025] Figure 14 illustrates a method of placing an employer order according to an embodiment of the disclosure subject matter.

[0026] Figure 15 illustrates a method of portal setup according to an embodiment of the disclosure subject matter.

[0027] Figure 16 illustrates a method of adding an employee according to an embodiment of the disclosure subject matter.

[0028] Figure 17 illustrates a method of ordering a sample according to an embodiment of the disclosure subject matter.

[0029] Figure 18 illustrates a method of portal setup according to an embodiment of the disclosure subject matter.

[0030] Figure 19 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0031] Figure 20 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0032] Figure 21 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0033] Figure 22 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0034] Figure 23 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. [0035] Figure 24 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0036] Figure 25 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0037] Figure 26 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0038] Figure 27 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0039] Figure 28 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0040] Figure 29 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0041] Figure 30 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0042] Figure 31 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0043] Figure 32 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0044] Figure 33 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0045] Figure 34 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. [0046] Figure 35 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0047] Figure 36 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0048] Figure 37 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0049] Figure 38 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0050] Figure 39 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0051] Figure 40 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0052] Figure 41 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0053] Figure 42 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0054] Figure 43 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0055] Figure 44 illustrates a method of new employee purchasing according to an embodiment of the disclosure subject matter.

[0056] Figure 45 illustrates a method of existing employee purchasing according to an embodiment of the disclosure subject matter. [0057] Figure 46 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0058] Figure 47 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0059] Figure 48 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0060] Figure 49 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0061] Figure 50 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0062] Figure 51 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0063] Figure 52 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0064] Figure 53 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0065] Figure 54 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0066] Figure 55 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0067] Figure 56 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. [0068] Figure 57 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0069] Figure 58 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0070] Figure 59 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0071] Figure 60 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0072] Figure 61 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0073] Figure 62 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0074] Figure 63 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0075] Figure 64 depicts a user interface according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] Service sector businesses (e.g., hotels, food service companies, retailers, some healthcare) often require their employees to wear uniforms. Uniforms are frequently rented and laundered by a single provider, and a manager acts as an intermediary between the uniform provider and line-level employees. Typically, managers order uniforms for the employee when it is determined that an employee needs a uniform. This methodology requires a significant amount of middle-management resources and provides employees with very limited or one-size- fits-all options for their work apparel. Additionally, employees are not directly engaged in the choice of what they are wearing. Uniforms commonly rank low in workplace satisfaction surveys.

[0077] The systems and methods described in accordance with various embodiments of the present subject matter eliminate the responsibilities of employers in ordering, receiving, storing, issuing, and maintaining uniforms. Embodiments of the present subject matter allow employees to directly select and order their own uniforms through an online storefront that employers can customize. These online storefronts have a back-end where employers can log-in, select a range of apparel options for their employees to choose from, and then credit employee accounts that employees can use to purchase and order their own uniforms. A back-end of the systems and methods enables an employer to reinforce their brand by outlining a range of options for employee uniforms. Such systems and methods engage employees and give them a voice in determining the apparel they will wear while on the job.

[0078] Storefronts may also be used to market employer-approved accessories. Among other advantages, this eliminates any guess-work for employees in determining whether an accessory meets an employer's requirements. Also in accordance with the present subject matter, uniforms and accessories selected by the employee may be shipped directly to the employee, eliminating the employer's responsibility for reception and distribution. Such systems and methods may offer support, e.g., customer support, to the employee. For example, simple return policies and multilingual phone support will further enable additional benefits associated with the present subject matter. The storefront may also include helpful information, e.g., video tutorials, about workplace dress code and etiquette for a particular company. Among other advantages, this can help employers avoid employee's non-compliance with the employer's apparel policies. The systems and methods may also be used to market a line of credit to employees because employment status may be verified easily. The systems and methods do not require that its operator be an apparel manufacturer. Rather, in some embodiments, an operator of the systems and methods may purchase the apparel options directly from manufacturers. In other embodiments, apparel manufacturers may operate the systems and methods themselves.

[0079] The systems and methods described herein capitalize on advances in technology and e-commerce to bypass frontline managers and forge a business and marketing relationship with line-level employees— the actual wearers of uniform apparel. This new model provides revolutionary cost savings and purchasing controls for the service sector. The systems and methods may be administered through branded web storefronts.

[0080] The employer determines durable ready-to-wear uniform apparel products required for their employees' job positions, as well as accessories including shoes, belts, socks and hosiery in styles and colors approved by their employer. Employers use a robust back-end module to assign apparel products to each job position, open new employee accounts, and allocate "eCredit" to individual employees— typically an amount equal to the combined cost of one or more required ensembles. The employees may then choose approved apparel and accessories that may be shipped directly to the employee's home. Products sold on the website may be sourced from a variety of domestic and international suppliers. These systems and methods eliminate the middle-management purchaser/receiver responsibility that presently exists in most service businesses. Employers pay for units of "eCredit" with a major credit card.

Employees pay for individual purchases using their pre-assigned "eCredit" and/or with a major credit card or by electronic debit. Purchases are shipped direct to employees, relieving employers of the many obligations associated with ordering, receiving, storing, issuing, and maintaining uniforms.

[0081] The embodiments disclosed herein provide for a revolutionary business model aggressively and specifically marketed to the service industry. Some embodiments feature purchasable apparel as opposed to rentable apparel. This apparel may be durable, ready-to-wear, non-iron garments that are machine -washable and easy-to-care-for at home. The embodiments include a crisp digital storefront customizable for each client company. Storefronts are easy to use and build. The storefronts may include instructional information in text and video in both English and Spanish. Storefronts are accessible from a wide variety of platforms and browsers including Internet Explorer, Windows Mobile, Android, Firefox, Chrome, and Safari.

Storefronts reinforce brand consistency and culture while providing an intuitive and predictable user experience for employees to purchase garments pre-selected for their position as part of a custom apparel program.

[0082] The systems and methods of the present disclosure include a robust back-end interface that allows employers to log-in and easily register new employees, upload company logos, assign apparel items to each job position and issue electronic credits ("eCredit") to employees, and track order status and spending.

[0083] The systems and methods of the present disclosure offer a standard line of uniform styles tailored to satisfy a variety of apparel needs across positions, with customizable embroidery designed to enhance image and brand identification, as well as provide a safe and efficient workplace. This eliminates employee guesswork by including a line of "employer recommended" accessory items sold by uniform providers. Accessories are generally not paid for by the employer, but are required to be worn by employees in uniform. These shoes, belts, socks and hosiery are traditionally purchased by employees individually. At the storefront, accessory purchases are promoted through instructional videos for employees' "first day on the job" with titles like: "Off to the Right Start: How to Look."

[0084] The systems and methods of the present disclosure include the capability to send a personalized e-mail to each new employee, directing them to access the custom storefront developed for their company and to make purchases specifically tailored to their position using "eCredit" or their own payment method (major credit card or account debit). Additionally, direct marketing e-mails may be sent on behalf of the employer, as well as for marketing and promotions on the website. Through a banking partnership, a line of personal credit may also be marketed to the employee. This arrangement is similar to department store credit cards, but provides credit issuers verifiable salary and employment data— key data for the credit decision. A credit guarantee could also be offered through the employer, in addition to or substituting for the purchase of "eCredit." In some embodiments the operator of the systems and methods may be an apparel manufacturer or a non-manufacturer, e.g. , a direct buyer from manufacturers who stock certain core items for rapid order fulfillment. Other items are drop shipped direct to the employee within a period of days. These systems and methods shift privilege of choice and selection to employee, within parameters pre-set by employer.

[0085] When service companies choose to implement these systems and methods, the uniform wearer becomes the uniform customer— cutting out the employer "middlemen" and saving countless hours of middle -management productivity. Employees feel empowered by the benefit of actual choice and control. Managers see an improvement in employee satisfaction, as uniforms are often among the lowest-rated data-points on employee surveys. These systems and methods present the vision and feeling of a fashion house. Each item, for example, may bear one of the company's exclusive fashion brands. These brands embody their own heritage and handwriting and may be styled to gender. The brands may be aspirational, and may share common elements and characteristics of a global fashion destination such as New York City. Collectively, the brand may portray various styles, including classic, confident, intelligent, privileged and possessing of a sense of humor.

[0086] These systems and methods forge trust and loyalty with the client employee by offering a return policy, e.g., 60 day return policy, and outstanding multilingual service by telephone around the clock. No new employee wants to trouble their manager with questions about sizing and accessories— especially if a language barrier exists— and current uniform providers are inaccessible to the actual wearers of their clothes. Customer care agents possess knowledge not only in the employee's apparel program, but are also able to share etiquette tips and reminders about company image policy, helping avert non-compliance, improve

productivity, workplace safety, and reducing the number of "difficult conversations" about uniforms and personal image between middle-managers and line-level employees in the workplace. The systems and methods enable line-level employees to become ambassadors of the brand.

[0087] A user interface in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted in Figure 1. The user interface 100 is divided into three major regions: a header region 101; a tab region 102; and a content region 103. The header region 101 contains images or information identifying a provider. In some embodiments, this identifying information includes a company name 111, logo, or color scheme. In some embodiments, header region 101 includes login information {e.g., a username) or role information 112 {e.g., "Admin"). In some embodiments, supplemental navigation elements are included in the header region 101, such as a button 113 or menu. Tab region 102 includes a plurality of tabs 121, 122, 123, 124, 125. When the user selects an individual tab in the tab region 102, the content region 103 is reconfigured to display content relevant to the selected tab.

[0088] Provided that the currently logged in user has administrative access, selection of the "Outfit Settings" tab 124 displays in the content region 103 controls operable for defining job titles and outfits. In some embodiments, a tree structure 131 is displayed in content region 103. Tree structure 131 includes a plurality of expandable nodes 141, 142, 143, 144 that correspond to departments (e.g., Reception, Restaurant, Kitchen, Housekeeping). Each expandable node includes at least one expandable sub-node 151, 152, 153, 154 corresponding to a job title within that department (e.g., Concierge, Guest Services Agent). In some embodiments, the job title may additionally include a sex designation (e.g., Men, Women, Unisex) where the relevant apparel items are sex-specific. Each expandable sub-node corresponding to a title has a list of apparel items 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166 corresponding to that job title. An exemplary layout is depicted, however, a variety of suitable alternate layouts would be apparent to one of skill in the art.

[0089] The name of each apparel item and its properties are editable either inline in the

UI or by clicking on a button that opens a supplemental editing interface. Credit allotments may be assigned on an individual title basis. In some embodiments, a credit summary region 170 is included beneath each title sub-node. Credit summary region 170 includes a breakdown of the credits allocated to each type of apparel item. In some embodiments, credit allocations are edited inline. In other embodiments, credit allocations are edited by pressing a button 171. Display of the elements in tree structure 131 may be modified using additional user interface elements and techniques known in the art. Such user interface elements and techniques include, but are not limited to, filters, sorting, trees, tables, thumbnails, expandable galleries, popups, and mouseovers.

[0090] A user interface for browsing outfits in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in Figure 2. The user interface 200 includes header region 101, tab region 102, and content region 103 as discussed above. To facilitate visual browsing of outfits, content region 103 includes a plurality of industry regions 201, 202 corresponding to industries for which apparel is required (e.g., Hotels, Restaurants). Within each industry region is a plurality of preview images 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217. Each preview image corresponds to a predetermined outfit or predetermined suite of apparel that can be combined to form a single outfit. In some embodiments, each preview image is accompanied by a text label. A

predetermined outfit may correspond to a predetermined look, theme, or style (e.g., Traditional, Urban, Suburban, Snow, Sun). Also within the each industry region is a plurality of department links 220. The departments correspond to those that were defined using the user interface discussed with regard to Figure 1, and so will vary based on input by administrative users.

When a user selects one of the preview images or one of the department links, outfits

corresponding to the selected preview image or department link are displayed, as discussed below.

[0091] Figure 3 depicts a user interface for browsing outfits according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. User interface 300 includes header region 101, tab region 102, and content region 103 as discussed above. Content region 103 includes a category region 301 and a preview region 302. Category region 301 includes a plurality of category images 311, 312, 313, 314, 315. In some embodiments, the category images correspond to individual looks, themes, or styles. In other embodiments, the category images correspond to individual positions or job titles. When the user selects a category image in category region 301, preview region 302 displays a plurality of preview images 321, 322, 323, 324 corresponding to the selected category. If category region 301 is configured to display individual looks, then the preview region 302 displays preview images corresponding to positions. If category region 301 is configured to display individual positions, then preview region 302 displays preview images corresponding to looks. In some embodiments, a preview image of preview region 302 is selected by clicking, while in other embodiments it is selected by mouseover.

[0092] In some embodiments, mousing over a preview image of preview region 302 results in display of a supplemental menu 330. The supplemental menu 330 allows the user to select between variations of the outfit corresponding to the selected preview image. In some embodiments, the variations displayed in supplemental menu 330 correspond to male and female outfits. In embodiments including supplemental menu 330, selecting a variation from

supplemental menu 330 causes the corresponding outfit to be displayed in content region 103, as discussed below. In other embodiments, selecting a preview image of the preview region 302 causes the corresponding outfit to be displayed in content region 103.

[0093] In some embodiments, content region 103 additionally includes accessory region

303. Accessory region 303 includes preview images 331, 332, 333, 334, 335 corresponding to accessories suitable for inclusion in the outfits displayed in preview region 302. Selecting one of the preview images of accessory region 303 causes the corresponding accessory to be displayed in content region 103.

[0094] Figure 4 depicts a user interface for displaying individual items of apparel for a given outfit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. User interface 400 includes header region 101, tab region 102, and content region 103 as discussed above. Content region 103 includes outfit image 401 and individual apparel images 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 407. In some embodiments, individual apparel images are paired with add buttons 412, 413, 414, 415, 416, 417. Activating one of the add buttons associated with a given individual apparel piece causes that apparel piece to be added to a virtual shopping cart or to an outfit working set.

Activation of add all button 420 causes one of each individual apparel piece to be added to the shopping cart or to outfit working set. In some embodiments, content region 103 includes crosslink region 430. Cross-link region 430 includes links to other positions with the same look, or other looks with the same position.

[0095] Figure 5 depicts a rollover user interface element in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Rollover region 500 appears when a user mouses over one of add buttons 412, 413, 414, 415, 416, 417. In alternative embodiments, rollover region 500 appears when a user mouses over an individual apparel image 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 407. Rollover region 500 includes additional information regarding the relevant apparel item, and allows the user to select any additional options available for that item (e.g., color or

monogramming). In some embodiments, changes to options in rollover region 500 causes corresponding changes to outfit image 401 or individual apparel images 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 407. Cart button 501 includes numeric identifier 502, which indicates the number of items of apparel currently contained in the shopping cart or working set.

[0096] Figure 6 depicts a user interface for adding multiple apparel items according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. User interface 600 contains a scroll pane 601, which displays a plurality of apparel items 611, 612, 613, 614, 615 and their individual attributes.

Individual items may be removes from scroll pane 601 by pressing one of remove buttons 602. The items remaining in scroll pane 601 are added to the shopping cart or to an outfit working set by pressing save button 603. In some embodiments, user interface 600 is shown and hidden by activating cart button 501.

[0097] Figure 7 depicts a position association interface according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, association interface 700 is displayed when a user activated save button 603. Association interface 700 includes apparel pane 701 and position selection pane 702. Apparel pane 701 includes those items of apparel selected as discussed above. Position pane 702 includes a plurality of positions, which are selectable by the user. Associating an outfit with a given position causes that outfit to be displayed on position-specific displays as discussed above. Association interface 700 includes save buttons 703 and 704. If a user activates save button 703, the association between the outfit displayed in apparel pane 701 and the positions selected in position pane 702 is stored. If a user activates save button 704, the association is likewise stored, and outfit settings are displayed as discussed above with regard to Figure 1.

[0098] Figure 8 illustrates a publication notice 800. Publication notice 800 appears in content region 103 to notify an administrative user that a saved outfit has not yet been published for access by non-administrative users. In some embodiments, upon saving an outfit in accordance with the procedure discussed above with regard to Figures 6 and 7, an outfit is not published. In some embodiments, publication notice 800 includes a link 801 to the outfit settings screen discussed above with regard to Figure 1.

[0099] Figure 9 depicts the outfit settings screen of Figure 1 filtered to display those outfits that have not yet been published. In some embodiments, filter indicator 901 indicates the filter criteria applied to the outfits. In some embodiments, publish button 902 enables a user to publish all currently selected outfits. [0100] Figure 10 depicts a publication confirmation notice in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, publication confirmation notice 1000 is displayed after a user activates publish button 902.

[0101] Figure 11 depicts the outfit settings screen of Figure 1 filtered to display those outfits that have not yet been published. In this example, there are no currently unpublished outfits and so the list is empty.

[0102] Figure 12 illustrates a method of enrolling a new employee in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an exemplary method, a user accesses a website 1201 (e.g., BibandTucker.com). The user enters a business name and location into the portal finder of the website 1202 to locate the portal of that business. The user enters an email and enrollment code into the portal of that business 1203, and is directed to create an account 1210. In another exemplary method, a user receives a welcome email with a link 1204, which when clicked directs their web browser to a web page for account creation 1210. User account creation 1210 includes verification of the user's, name, email, and job title. User account creation 1210 also includes creation of a password. After an account is created, a new employee agreement is displayed 1211. In some embodiments, the new employee agreement requires user

acknowledgement before proceeding.

[0103] Upon successful login or account creation, a user selects required items 1220.

Selection of required items 1220 includes selecting an item 1221, entering sizes of the item 1222, adding a monogram 1223, and repeating steps 1221-1223 for any additional items. After selecting required items 1220, a user selects essential items 1230. Selection of essential items includes selecting an item 1231, entering sizes of the item 1232, adding a monogram 1233, and repeating steps 1231-1233 for any additional items. After selecting essential items 1230, a user selects optional items 1240. Selection of essential items includes selecting an item 1241, entering sizes of the item 1242, adding a monogram 1243, and repeating steps 1241-1243 for any additional items. The order of steps 1220, 1230, and 1240 is exemplary, and any other order of these three steps would not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. After selection steps 1220, 1230, and 1240, the selected items are evaluated for whether additional payment is required 1250. If additional payment is required, the user is prompted to choose payment options 1251. If the user selects employer backed credit, the user is directed to open a line of credit with a bank 1252. In some embodiments, the line of credit application is processed by the bank website. If the user selects a payroll deduction, they are given an explanation of the payroll deduction 1253. If the user selects to pay by credit card, they are prompted to enter billing information 1254. Once payment information is entered, the user is prompted to enter shipping information 1260. If no payment is required, steps 1251-1254 are bypassed. After shipping information is entered, the user is prompted to review the order as entered 1261. If the order is approved by the user, an order confirmation is displayed 1262, an order confirmation email is dispatched to the employee 1263, an order notification email is dispatched to the user's manager 1264, and an order record is added to the eParel administrative site 1265.

[0104] Figure 13 illustrates a method of ordering by an existing employee in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an exemplary method, a user accesses a website 1301 (e.g., BibandTucker.com). The user enters a business name and location into the portal finder of the website 1302 to locate the portal of that business. The user enters an email and password 1303. In another exemplary method, a user receives an alert email with a link 1304, which when clicked directs their web browser to a web page entering an email and password 1303. If login is successful, the user's account is checked to determine whether they have been given credits for new items 1310.

[0105] If the user has credits available, the user selects credited items 1320. Selection of credited items 1320 includes selecting an item 1321, entering sizes of the item 1322, adding a monogram 1323, and repeating steps 1321-1323 for any additional items. After selecting required items 1320, a user selects from upsell items 1330. Selection of upsell items includes selecting an item 1331, entering sizes of the item 1332, adding a monogram 1333, and repeating steps 1331-1333 for any additional items. After selection steps 1320 and 1330, the selected items are evaluated for whether additional payment is required 1340. If additional payment is required, and the user has not previously chosen a billing option 1350, the user is prompted to choose payment options 1351. If the user selects employer backed credit, the user is directed to open a line of credit with a bank 1352. In some embodiments, the line of credit application is processed by the bank website. If the user selects a payroll deduction, they are given an explanation of the payroll deduction 1353. If the user selects to pay by credit card, they are prompted to enter billing information 1354. Once payment information is entered, the user is prompted to enter shipping information 1360. If no payment is required 1340, steps 1350-1354 are bypassed. If billing information was previously chosen 1350, the information is verified 1370 and steps 1351-1354 are bypassed. After shipping information is entered, the user is prompted to review the order as entered 1361. If the order is approved by the user, an order confirmation is displayed 1362, an order confirmation email is dispatched to the employee 1363, an order notification email is dispatched to the user's manager 1364, and an order record is added to the eParel administrative site 1365. [0106] If a user has no credits available 1310, they are directed to the portal homepage

1370. The user shops for items available for their positions 1371, and they then proceed to step 1350, for determination of whether a billing option has already been chosen.

[0107] Figure 14 illustrates a method of placing an employer order in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an exemplary method, a user accesses a website 1401 (e.g., eParel.com). The user designs outfits 1410, clicks to save those outfits 1411, and then creates an account 1412. The account creation 1412 includes collecting name, title, company, company size, phone, email, and password. After account creation 1412, an account creation notification is emailed 1413, and an account creation confirmation is displayed to the user 1414. After account creation, the user chooses those items of which he wishes to order samples 1415. The user then uploads a logo if needed 1416. The user then enters billing and shipping information 1417. The order is then presented to the user for review 1418. Upon approval of the order by the user, an order confirmation email 1419 is sent and an order confirmation is displayed to the user 1420.

[0108] Figure 15 illustrates a method of portal setup in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an exemplary method, a user accesses a website 1501 (e.g., eParel.com). The user logs into the website using an email and a password 1502. Based on the login information, it is determined whether the user has previously added billing information 1503. If not, the user is prompted to enter billing and shipping information 1504. Once account information entry is complete, portal setup is performed 1505. In some embodiments, portal setup includes setting a subdomain, setting a logo, setting a color, and providing an employee agreement. Outfit design 1506 may be performed multiple times to define multiple outfits. Further portal setup includes setting up billing options to be offered to users 1507. If payroll deduction is selected as a payment method, limits are entered by title or salary 1508. If employer-backed credit is selected as a payment method, credit account setup 1509 is performed. In some embodiments, credit account setup is conducted on a bank website. Upon completion of payroll deduction setup b and/or credit account setup 1509, the portal is published 1510. After publication, a portal setup confirmation email is sent 1511. The user is then directed to the portal administration view 1512. In some embodiments, the administration view includes

adding/editing outfits, adding employees, and adding managers.

[0109] Figure 16 illustrates a method of adding an employee in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an exemplary method, a user accesses a website 1601 (e.g., eParel.com). The user logs into the website using an email and a password 1602. An administrative dashboard is displayed to the user 1603. Through the administrative dashboard, the user activates the add employees functionality 1604. In some embodiments, the add employee functionality is activated through a button or a tab. If the user is adding an individual employee, an online form is displayed which prompts the user for confirmation of credits and of the welcome email 1605. If the user is adding multiple employees, the user is prompted to upload a spreadsheet (e.g., in Excel format) containing multiple employees to be added 1606. After the spreadsheet is uploaded, the user is prompted to verify the data loaded 1607. After employees are added, the user is presented with a confirmation 1608. The user is asked whether or not to send an email to the employee 1609. If the user indicates that an email should be sent, the employee is emailed a welcome email with a link to the portal 1610.

[0110] The term clicking is used broadly herein. Clicking is intended to include any means of activating a user interface elements known in the art. Clicking includes, but is not limited to clicking with a mouse, trackball, or other user interface device. Clicking also includes touching a region of a touch screen, and activating a user interface element using any other known accessibility technology.

[0111] In addition to the specific embodiments claimed below, the disclosed subject matter is also directed to other embodiments having any other possible combination of the dependent features claimed below and those disclosed above. As such, the particular features presented in the dependent claims and disclosed above can be combined with each other in other manners within the scope of the disclosed subject matter such that the disclosed subject matter should be recognized as also specifically directed to other embodiments having any other possible combinations. Thus, the foregoing description of specific embodiments of the disclosed subject matter has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosed subject matter to those embodiments disclosed.

[0112] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the method and system of the disclosed subject matter without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosed subject matter. Thus, it is intended that the disclosed subject matter include modifications and variations that are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

claimed is:

A system for providing employer-selected apparel, the system comprising:

a digital storefront adapted to selectively provide a plurality of employer-selected apparel choices to an employee accessing the digital storefront based on at least a gender of the employee and a job title of the employee, wherein the digital storefront is adapted to process purchase requests for a selected apparel choice from the employee.

The system of claim 1 , wherein the digital storefront is further adapted to suggest at least one employer-recommended accessory based on a first apparel selection from the employee.

The system of claim 1, wherein the digital storefront is further adapted to provide employer-selected apparel choices from each of a plurality of employers.

The system of claim 3, wherein the system is adapted to require a password from the employee prior to providing the plurality of employer-selected apparel choices.

The system of claim 1 , wherein the system is further adapted to deduct a purchase price from a line of credit.

The system of claim 1, wherein the system includes an employee interface and an employer interface.

The system of claim 6, wherein the employee interface includes a wardrobe tool adapted to provide suggested choices based on the gender and the job title.

The system of claim 7, wherein the wardrobe tool includes video or a photo gallery. The system of claim 6, wherein the employer interface includes an electronic message board or electronic mail adapted to transmit information between employer and employee.

The system of claim 1, wherein the digital storefront is accessible via the Internet.