Background of the invention:
People who undertake a project often want to communicate more easily with others involved .
in the project and to share aspects of the project with family and friends.
Some projects are substantially done by other parties, such as building a home, fixing up an
old car, community projects, etc. In these situations the project owners typically experience
loss of control over their projects and the anxiety caused by lack of infomtation. In addition,
project owners typically wish they could more readily share the latest inforrration, images
and so on about their project with friends and family.
At the same time, the people _in charge of getting such a project done ("project doers”)
typically feel berated by owners who are constantly bugging them for more information.
In some instances, the project doer feels that if the owner would just let them get on with
the job rather than answering their queries, they would have the job completed much more
quickly. Project doers also need a simple, intuitive way to record the decisions from owners
and to track information, specifications etc. They also often need to share large files with
owners and this is currently difficult.
The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an
acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common
general knowledge.
Summary of the invention:
According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a project management system
comprising at least one social media tool to increase the effectiveness of communicating
information associated with the project.
In another aspect, there is provided a computer implemented method comprising: storing
dataassociated with a project in a data store, associating at least one user with the project
using at least one data type, and providing a communication tool to enable the user to
communicate to another person about the project.
In one aspect of the invention there is provided a project management system comprising:
a processor executing instructions stored on a memory; and the memory comprising: a data
storage module configured to store information about a project; a user data module
configured to associate at least one user with the project, using at least one data type and a
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communication module to enable the user to communicate to another person about the
project.
In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer implemented method for
communicating about a project comprising: outputting by a server device an information
interface for display by a client device and thereby providing a user with the ability to
communicate about a project; receiving by a server device at least one instruction from the
user in relation to the project; and enabling a communication about the project.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus, comprising: a storage
device; and a processor coupled to the storage device, wherein the storage device stores a
program for controlling the processor, andfwherein the processor, being operative with the
program, is configured to cause output by a sewer device of an information interface for
display by a client device and thereby providing a user with the ability to communicate
about a project; receiving by a server device at least one instruction from the user in
I
relation to the project; and enabling a communication about the project.
In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a computerized system for social
project management comprising: a project module to manage registration of projects on the
system; a messaging module to enable a user to send messages and keep track of
conversations; a document module to allow for the management of documents; and a
milestone module to manage the schedule and /or milestones for each project; In some
embodiments, the system of this aspect‘optional|y further comprises one or more of: a
billing module to manage billing; a social module to enable a user to push notifications and
events to social media; a decision registry to maintain one or more decisions that have
been made during the process; and a packaging module to produce a report. In some
embodiments the messaging module is the social module.
Some embodiments of the system comprise one or more of: a billing module to manage
billing; a social module to enable a user to push notifications and events to social media; a
decision registry ‘to maintain one or more decisions that have been made during the
process; and a packaging module to produceareport.
Some embodiments of methods of the invention comprise the step of associating a plurality
of projects with one another.
Some embodiments of the system comprise at least one seanchemodule to enable search.
Some embodiments of methods of the invention comprise the steps of receiving a search
instruction via a user interface; conducting a search according to the search instruction and
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optionally a predefined criterion; and displaying one or more search results. In some
embodiments, the predefined criterion comprises a restriction based on the user’s access
privileges. The search may be optionally: across one or more projects; for a user, a
document, a type of project. in some embodiments the search is for a user to collaborate
with or to provide a service.
Some embodiments of the system comprise a rating module to enable a first user to add
information about a second user wherein the information is optionally rating information and
/ or recommendation information and the second user is optionally a service provider or a
collaborator.
Some embodiments of methods of the invention comprise the step of receiving from a first
user, information relevant to a second user wherein the information optionally comprises
rating information and / or recommendation information and wherein the second user is
optionally a service provider or a collaborator.
Some embodiments of the system comprise a marketing module to enable marketing
messages to be displayed in the system.
Some embodiments of methods of the invention comprise the steps of receiving and / or
collecting marketing information relevant to one or more users and /or one or more
projects; receiving at least one instruction in relation to marketing; and displaying a
marketing message to a user wherein the marketing message is optionally displayed once
a predetermined criterion is met.
Throughout this specification (including any claims which follow), unless the oontext
requires otherwise, the word ‘comprise’, and variations such as ‘comprises’ and
‘comprising’, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated” integer or step or group of
integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or
steps.
Brief description of the drawings:
Figure 1 depicts a schematic of an example implementation of the system of the invention.
l-"lg ure 2 depicts a process flow chart of an example implementation of the method of the
invention.
I
l-"lg ure 3 depicts some example users in an example implementation relating to construction
of residential buildings as described herein.
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Figure 4 depicts an example web-based display for the implementation of Figure 3.
Figure 5 depicts an example mobile implementation and an example mobile alert for the
implementation of Figure 3.
Figure 6 depicts an example implementation of internal and third party components of the
system and method of the invention.
l-"ig ure 7 depicts an example email with links to the system of the implementation of
Hg ure 3.
l-"lg ure 8 depicts an example facebook notificationwith questions and answers in relation to
the implementation of Figure 3.
Figure 9 depicts an example high level technical architecture according to certain
embodiments.
l-“igure 10 is a class diagram of the high level components of certain embodiments of the
invention.
l-"igure 11 is a state transition diagram of milestones according to the exemplary
embodiments of l-“igure 10.
Figure 12 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for a user signing in.
Figure 13 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for a builder
registering a new project in some exemplary embodiments.
Figure 14 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for certain
messaging and information sharing options according to some exemplary embodiments.
Hgure 15 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for configuring and
publishing building milestones according to some exemplary embodiments.
Figure 16 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for collaborating on
documents and milestones according to some exemplary embodiments.
Figure 17 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for packaging and
reporting according to some exemplary embodiments.
Detailed description of exemplaryembo-diments:
It is convenient to describe the invention herein in relation to particularly preferred
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embodiments. However, the invention is applicable to a wide range of options and it is to
be appreciated that other constructions and arrangements are also considered as falling
within the scope of the invention. Various modifications, alterations, variations and or
additions to the construction and arrangements described herein are also considered as
falling within the ambit and scope of the present invention.
The invention herein described can be used in relation to any project in which a person is
interested. it tends to work betterwhere more than one person is involved, but this is not
crucial. In those embodiments in which a single user is involved in a project, the user may
still gain benefit from use of the system by: utilizing the communication tools such as social
media tools to communicate information about the project to one or more third parties.
By way of example only, the invention may be used for construction projects, such as
building projects for example for commercial or residential purposes or land-related
projects such as landscaping or clearing. It may also be used for transport-related projects,
such as car maintenance, or building a new car or airplane or boat (for example from a kit).
It may be used for creative projects, hobbies etc.
In some embodiments, the invention is used in connection with the repair and / or
rraintenance of an item or thing, which could be anything from an old couch, to a car, a
house, etc. Such projects might for example comprise renovation, upgrading, additions to
the item, and so on.
The invention may equally be used for other types of projects, for example creative
projects. Thus for example, auser may wish to manage the production of a patchwork quilt
or creation of a painting or a sculpture or a new garden area, or anything at all. The
invention enables the user to communicate readily in relation to collaborating on the project
and also readily share information, updates, images, video etc. with others as he or she
wishes.
in another example, in some embodiments the invention may be used for planning, for
example planning a holiday, a move, a trip, a new enterprise, etc.
in some embodiments one or more projects may be associated together for example to
form groups or series. They may be associated in any suitable fashion. For example, a
user may-associate all of the groups that he or she has been involved in together.
Alternatively, a company managing multiple projects mayjgroup them together. In some
embodiments, projects may be grouped together based on tags, keywords or categories.
This may be done by individual users so that they can collect together particular projects of
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interest (in such situations certain embodiments will only let them view information that is
available to them — either via permission granted, or because the information has been
made public by a user with relevant authority).
A user may be associated with a project according to the invention in any suitable way. In
some embodiments a simple table is created in which a user identity is associated with a
project identifier. Data types which may be used to associate a user may comprise any
suitable type, for example a unique identifier, a name, Iogin details, an address, a phone
number, an errail address, a social media ID etc.
Some embodiments of the invention provide for varying levels of access and control. In
_ some implementations, there is an overall administrator level to manage the overall system.
in some implementations various levels of access may be granted to one or more users
within a project or group of projects. Access levels may for example comprise:
- Tagged Only —- to receive and view only information tagged forthat user
- Read Only — to view anything within a project or group of projects but not add new
content or edit.
I
- Contributor — the same rights as Read Only, plus the ability to add new content, but
not edit.
- Editor — the same rights as Contributor, plus the ability to edit content from any user.
o Administrato_r - the same rights as Editor plus the ability to set permissions and
levels of access and control for other users.
Communication with the invention can be by any suitable means. ‘In some embodiments,
the system provides a plurality ofviews to enable a user to more readily undertake a
particular action or task. For example, in some implementations there may be a dashboard
view which displays the vital statistics" fora project (or for example a range of projects),
equally there may be other views, such as a calendar or tirneline, showing milestones, past
events, due dates, etc. In some embodiments an event stream is included and in such
embodiments this may comprise all or most of a separate view.
A
In some embodiments the system of the invention further comprises at least one search
module to enable search. Search may be across one or more projects. Search may also
be for other elements such as users, documents, types of projects and so on. Search may
be restricted to pre-defined.|imits — for example only those to which a user has access.
In some embodiments, the invention enables a user to search and find anothertype of user
to perform a role in relation to the project (a nonélimiting example is 'the"Bidcontender‘ in
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Figure 12). This rmy be any suitable role, for example it rmy be to collaborate (for example
on a creative endeavour), but it could equally be to perform paid services in relation to the
project (for example a builder, or plumber on a residential construction project).
Embodiments comprising this functionality may also comprise a separate view to enable
ready searching and filtering of prospective users to add to the project.
Those embodiments that enable a user to add further users may also provide systems and
methods for choosing amongst potential additional users. For example, in some
embodiments, service providers may collect togethera portfolio of their work for display to
users searching for their types of services. in some embodiments, a service provider's
entire work history within the system and method of the invention are recorded and nonconfidential
aspects are displayed. in some embodiments, a service provider or user can
curate their work history to present it in the best possible light.
In some embodiments users may rate service providers or other users during or after a
project and such ratings may for example be used to attract further work or collaborations
or participation in future projects. Equally, service providers may be able to rate and
comment on users who have used their services, for example whether they paid on time,
whether they were good to deal with, etc. In some embodiments users may elect to be
contactable by future prospective users of a service provider in order to obtain information
about the service provider to for example inform a choice of service provider. The same
functionality can be used for other users (for example to collaborate or participate in a
project) or indeed for service providers to enquire about a prospective purchaser oftheir
services.
Some embodiments comprise a recommendation module to handle information about users
and enable recommendations to be made by other users. Some embodiments provide a
contacts management module which may forexample be associated with one or more
extemal platforms specialised in contacts and their information, for example Linkedln,
facebook, MySpace and the like.
Some embodiments of the invention allow marketing messages to be displayed in the
system. In some embodiments the marketing messages are in the form of targeted ads, for
example based on the type of project, key words in communications about the project, the
past purchasing history of the user etc.
Communication in relation to use of the system and method of the invention can be by any
suitable means. In some embodiments it comprises using text in mobile, intemet or local
computer devices, but in others it comprises one or more of audio, images, video, text, etc.
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Any suitable communication method can‘ be used, including email, srns, facsimile, voice
recording, voice to text and text to voice and so on.
In some embodiments the invention comprises one or more social media elements to
enhance communication. In some embodiments such elements are built in to the system,
for exampleuan event stream, commenting, opinions, ‘liking’, chat rooms, messaging, and
so on. In some embodiments there is an event stream that captures every event in the
project in chronological order.
in some embodiments, thesystem and method of the invention may be used in conjunction
with one or more external platforms such as social media platforms.‘ In such embodiments,
users may be able to elect which social network platforms to connect with and when
permissions are provided, the system may connect via an API. in such embodiments, the
user may be able to easily share information about the project on one or more of such
platfomts and for example obtain feedback or comments. Examples of platforms that a user
may for example connect to according to such embodiments may for example include:
facebook, Goog|e+, Twitter, Linkedln, MySpace, LiveJouma|, Pinterest, Cafernom, Tagged,
Ning, Meetup, Bado, myLife, Orkut, Youtube and so on.
Figure 6 depicts a simplified embodiment in which elements include a web application, a
mobile application and a desktop system particularly suitable for file handling, services
including handling files and data and people and relationships and extemal platfomis
including twitter, facebook, email and sms.
In some embodiments users can create information within thesystem or method of the
invention from outside it, for example by sending an email or other communication to a
particular address or via a communication protocol so that the information is captured by
the system of the invention. In some embodiments such information may be categorised by
the system automatically and it may for example be tagged with relevant tags, for example
the identity of the sender and recipients and / or tagged based on key words. in some
embodiments, tasks, milestones and other items can be created in this way.
Information shared in the system and method of the invention rmy be captured in a variety
of ways. In some embodiments every communication is captured and tagged with relevant
tags, for example with the identity of the sender and of all of the receivers as well as with
’ key words. in some embodiments users can add their own tags and /or categories for
example to make browsing or filtering of data simpler later.
In some embodiments users may select sharing options using one or more privacy settings,
~
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for example a particular piece of information or a category of infomiation (for example with
a particular tag) may only be shared with specified people or a specified set of people (eg
with a particular tag or grouping). In some embodiments in which one or more
organisations may collaborate, sharing settings may enable infonnation relevant to the ,
organisationto be shared across all users within the organisation, or for example all users
with a particular permission setting within the organisation.
Some embodiments of the invention comprise data protection measures. For example in
some embodiments a user can not delete an item of information. In other embodiments, a
user can only delete an item of information with the permission of all users that have sent or
received it or have access to it. in some embodiments, all information is stored, but public
availability of certain types of information can be modified by the originator of the
'
information. This may for example occur when an architect issues a new edition of a plan
and wishes to ensure that all users are looking at the latest version. They may restrict
access to the previous version or remove it from public view until the end of the project.
In some embodiments the system and method of the invention comprises a task module to
enable users to set tasks for themselves or others working on the project. Tasks may be set
as milestones which may be linked to another event, for example a progress payment, a
celebration, a notification or any suitable event. In some embodiments tasks can be shared
with other users who may collaboratively complete them.
In some embodiments the invention provides status updates, which can be displayed in any '
suitable fashion. For example, they may be displayed in a news area on a web page, as
pop ups on a web page, as the latest item in an event stream, as a text or srns message
sent to a mobile device, as an email and so on. Preferably users can select various options
in relation to status updates such as the type and frequency and how they wish to be made
aware of them. Status updates can be in respect of any suitable information, such as
completion of tasks or milestones, smaller events, etc.
In some embodiments of the invention the system stores all historical data (including files).
and thereby serves as a secure data store for the history of the project or for example a
series of projects. This can be particularly useful in working through disputes for example in
relation to specifications or assignment of tasks or scope of responsibilities in relation to
one or more projects. This can also be useful for project owners if they wish to keep a
representation of the history of the project, for example as a momento.
lnfomiation shared within or external to the system of the invention can be treated in asocial
way to enable better communication. For example, opinions such as likes, dislikes,
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numerical scores, reviews, requests for opinions can all be used.
in scrne embodiments the system comprises a resource trackerto track resources required
for the project. Such a resource tracker may track any suitable resources (for example
time, money, physical goods, raw materials, energy, etc) and track any suitable
characteristics of the resources (for example. inventory amounts, cost, location, shipping
time, key sources, etc.)
Some embodiments of the invention enable external information to be added to a project.
This may be information automatically added (for example the results of a daily search
using an intemet search engine such as the google search engine, orthe weather in a
location key to the project), or added by a user (for example a news item that is forwarded
in to the project by a user).
in some embodiments the invention enables files to be readily transferred between users
and_ in and out of the system. In some embodiments users may not delete a file.
Any suitable type of file may be transferred according to the invention, including for -
example plans, images, text files, documents, computer code, contracts, video, etc. Users.
may transfer files for any reason, for example for collaboration, comment, for instructions,
simply to share, etc. The invention in some embodiments uses a modem fast-transfer
protocolto increasethe efficiency oftransfer oflarge files.
Some embodiments provide a central store for files which may optionally provide version
control to ensure that there are no inconsistent versions of documents. Some
embodiments provide collaboration tools so that users may work together (whether
simultaneously or not) on a document or file.
in some embodiments there is further provided a search function. The search function can
be configured in any suitable manner. In some implementations it enables a user to search
across all communication types and all users and all types of data and files based on key
words, filters, tags and other search related criteria. Such a search function enables a user
to get more from the system and its aggregated content. in some embodiments. search is
restricted to only information for which a user has access.
Various modules may be used in a system and method according to the invention which
may be of greater use in particular implementations. For example, in one embodiment a
service provider user such as a builder may use a quoting module to create quotes based
on set criteria relevant to the costs of undertaking a project (such as size, number of
stories, materials to be used, timefrarne required, etc). in other embodiments, modules may
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be included for payments between users and reminders about payments.
Some embodiments comprise a completion module which guides users through all of the
steps to be taken to finalise, cross check (eg. for quality) and sign off on completion of a
project. Such a module preferably reminds the different users at relevant times of the next
step that they must do to enable completion to occur. This may be particularly irrportant in
some types of projects the process of completing the project must be carefully undertaken
to comply with relevant laws and safety requirements. As an example, completion of a
building or engineering project may require sign—off from various subject matter experts that
the project outcome complies with relevant regulatory requirements. Similarly, before handover
and final payment on a building project. an owner may have the option to undertake a
final inspection and issue a final defect notice.
I
In some embodiments there is provided an analytics module to enable one or more types of _
analytics to be undertaken. Any suitable analytics may be done, for example characteristics
of various users or projects in the system - such as the best (eg. highest rated / best
I
feedback) service providers (or eg. collaborators), the fastest service providers, those with
the most successful projects, those with the highest customer satisfaction, etc. It may also
provide a user with their personal statistics and in some embodiments suggestions as to
how to improve them. in some embodiments an analytics module may be used to assist in
matching one or more users for a particular project. Thus for example a user who needs a
project done in a short time frame may be offered the services ofthe three fastest service
providers for that type of project.
Similarly, a user who requires a project to be done with great detail may be offered the
services of a service provider renowned for this quality.
Example 1:
The invention is described below in relation to a non—|imiting example- in the residential
construction industry.
This embodiment of the invention enables a home owner to readily communicate with a
builder and all subcontractors about progress and management of the construction oftheir
home as well as easily check for updates and share inforrration, photos and other media
with friends and relatives.
Figure 1 depicts an example implementation of a system according to the invention shown
generally at 1. In this embodiment, social project management system 10 comprises a
server 20, with modules comprising a user data module 30, a file store 40 and an optional
.—i -*7
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module 50. Any number of optional modules may be added to the system depending on the
requirements of the application or use at hand. The optional module may be of any type
depending on the configuration required. For example, in some embodiments it comprises
a communication module to facilitate certain types of communication, such as by text, social
media, srns or facsimile an din others it might comprise a recommendation module, a
search module, a service provider search and / or rating module etc.
In some embodiments, an optional module may comprise an analyser to analyse data
associated with one or more projects or users. Such a module may be used by a user to
understand usage of the system and look for ways to improve efficiency in handling
projects. Similarly such a module may be used to analyse marketing~re|ated data to
understand and increase the effectiveness of marketing efforts using the system of the
invention. In still other embodiments an optional module may enable feedback such as
reviews and ratings to be collected and shared in relation to one or more users. The skilled g
_ addressee will appreciate that other optional nodules will be useful in certain situations.
System 10 communicates via connection 90 with network 60. Network 60 may be any
suitable network, for example the intemet._ Communication connection may be by any
suitable means. According to this embodiment, system 10 has four sets of users, being
home owners 2, builder 3, painter 4 and friends and family 5.
Bui|der3 and painter 4 work for the same company and therefore use computing devices
connected to the same local area network 95 which connects via connections 92 to the
builder's laptop 78 and the painters desktop 79. Each of these devices is running a local
version of software application 88 which communicates with system 10. In addition, builder
3 uses his mobile device 77 to utilize the system ofthe invention.
To do this he uses mobile version ofthe software application 87, which again enables him
to communicate with and issue instructions etc. to System 10 via network 60 and
connections 90. The builder can access any of his ongoing projects via mobile device 77
using application 87 and issue updates to owners, check on-delivery of raw materials, share
updates etc.
'
Home owners 2 access system 10 via their mobile device 70, which in this case is an ipad
although any suitable mobile device (or indeed non mobile device) can be used. "Mobile
device 70 comprises application 80 which is used to access, communicate with and issue
instructions to system 10. Owners 2 can check updates from builder 3 or painter 4 and
share them or other information with family and friends 5.
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in this example, family and friends 5 also use a mobile device 75 to access the system 10,
but in this case, the application 85 used to access the system is a simple web browser and
they access a mobile version of the site directly from the intemet 60.
Figure 2 depicts an example process flow for a simplified version of a method according to
the invention in which a user logs in to a user portal, enters basic data and initiates a
project. In this example, the user is asked whether he or she wishes to invite another
person to collaborate on the project. (As described herein, a collaborator can be of any
suitable type, and may forexample be a builder who has been recommended to the user
for building a new house.) If the user does not wish to invite another user to the project (for
example if it is a solo project which they wish to simply track and share updates to family
and friends from), then the user can proceed to start working on the project. if the user does
invite a collaborator, the 2nd user is then invited to enter basic data, and then asked
whether he or she wishes to join the project. If the 2nd user elects not to enter the project,
he or she takes no further part but at least basic data is maintained on the database. If the
2nd User elects to join the project, then he or she will work on the project with the 1st user.
At any point any of the users participating in a project may elect to share information by
choosing the data or information or entering it and the method of sharing (eg. Email,
Twitter, facebook, intemal event stream etc) and sharing it.
l-"lg ure 3 depicts some example users of an implementation of this embodiment of the
invention. As can be seen, owners, builders, commercial owners of projects, architects can
all be easily linked using a system and method of the invention. They can share updates,
photos, documents, ideas, decisions and any other relevant information with each other or
other relevant users such as friends and family subcontractors, suppliers and so on.
A system according to this embodiment provides an easy and familiar way to capture all of
project-related inspirations, tasks, communication, images and files in a central place, using
mobile and social tools. It is a social project management tool that is intuitive, fun and
makes it easy to get everyone on the same page in order to move your project forward. It
provides a central, social, engaging and real-time mobile tool that empowers builders to get
the job done and allows the ownerto come along for and share the ride.
For builders it provides questions and answers, but most importantly decisions, and all of
their projects on their phone. For home owners, it provides questions, answers, decisions
and memories — its the baby monitor for their project.
It also enables service providers such as builders, architects, plumbers, electricians etc to
build up a history of successful projects for rmrketing purposes and makes it easier for
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them to manage inventory and scheduling tasks on the project.
In this example, the system comprises a web interface, access from mobile devices as well
as from desktop or laptop computing devices. Figure 4 depicts an example implementation
of a web interface for this embodiment of the invention. As can be seen, it_comprises an
event feed (with easyrto use share buttons for sharing on other platforms), images and an
image gallery, an area for providing or updating status or broadcasting messages. A
tirneline is clearly set out at the top of the display and is easily navigable‘bysctolling back
and forth along the line. Photos and files can be added or retrieved using the buttons to the
right of the display. In addition, in some implementations there may further comprise
advertising or other marketing—related messages as depicted in the lower right comer of the
display. It may be at least partially contextual — for example, the message or advertisement
shown may be selected based on one or more keywords from for example the event feed,
or from comments that the user who is viewing the site has previously made.
The system captures a variety of electronic feeds (e.g.' email, Twitter, Facebook) between
participants into a cloud based collaboration platform, concurrent with the transmission via
traditional applications. It provides an individual with the capacity to accumulate a vast trove
of information overa lifetime of interactions, and thenlsearch and map those interactions in
a way that delivers previously unachievable utility and amenity.
Advantages of this embodiment of the invention include:
- Being accessible via the cloud, it provides a secure, redundant storage facility which
can be used as an archive.
- It stores communications in a network, allowing for storage economies (by only storing
one copy of each communication, irrespective of the number of recipients) and enabling
interaction mapping throughout a user's network.
I
o It allows for aggregated search capability across a‘ multitude of feeds with unlimited
retrospectivity — no communication is ever deleted (unless every sender and recipient
agrees).
- It propagates via user driven network effects.
0 It allows for aggregation across organizations, allowing. any member ofthat organization
to see any shared communication, and complex dissection of the aggregated data by
topic, participants and time.
Figure 5 depicts an example mobile implementation of this embodiment and in the image
on the left, a view showing an event tirneline. In addition, various alerts can be used, an
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example of an alert used on a mobile device is depicted to the right in Figure 5. It will be
appreciated that alerts can similarly be used for web—based or local (eg. Desktop)
implementations.
According to this Example, owners can communicate and share their construction project
with friends, family and associates and keep a record for posterity. By using the system of
the invention, owners are able to feel more involved in a project and be able to see the
status and ‘feel like they are there’ easily.
Builders are also able to increase their profit with greater efficiency. They can also elect to
promote their completed projects and grow their reputation. This enables them to be more
competitive in the market for building services.
Users of a system and method according to this aspect of the invention may for example
comprise:
- The owner who uses it to communicate with their builders, architects and the
commercial owners of a larger scale project that it may be a part of.
- Builders who use it to communicate with owners, the architects and commercial owners.
- Commercial owners and Architects as above.
0 Friends-and family of the ‘owners who are shown photos and updates, for example
notifications of milestones as they occur.
“
- Subcontractors who are provided with documents, milestone dates, reminders etc.
- Commercial suppliers who may for example provide an update on inventory and
process orders via a system and or method of the invention.
This embodiment of the invention provides users with a free tool that just works, to easily
capture, back—up, search and map a complete record of all communications, so that they
can manage the risk that l can’t find communications when I need it, see who they are
communicating with and about what (topic/ keyword). It also enables them to maintain a
personal data, topic/ keyword and contact map for all communications and easily capture,
back-up, search and map a complete record of all communications, so that that they can
manage the risk that they can't find communications when they need it.
In some implementations, the invention also provides a free tool to easily send large files,
so that they can get information to people quickly.
in some embodiments, small business owners such as a building company owner are
provided with a tool to easily capture, back—up, search and map a complete record of allof
the cornpany’s communications with all business partners, clients and suppliers so that they
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can get control of their company's communications and easily search across all email
accounts, see contractual problems as theyarise to manage my risk and reduce disputes
and minimize the costs of any disputes and discovery by having an independent record.
IT managers at companies can use the invention to easily capture, back-up, search and
5 map a complete record of all a company's communications with all business partners,
clients andsuppliers so that they can provide a complete record to the business of all
communications cost effectively — without needing to invest in expensive and difficult to
manage IT infrastructure.
The following table summarises ways in which certain embodiments of the invention differ
10 from previously available tools:
Capability Different to
Operates concurrently with the base program, capturing All other
the interaction at the time of sending/receiving passively. communication
software.
Maintains only one copy ofthe interaction and any Traditional email
attachments, irrespective of the number of participants. and non-web-to-
Each participant accesses the same copyofthe web
interaction and can do so concurrently. communications.
An interaction cannot be deleted without the consent of All other
the sender and all recipients. communication
software.
Interactions can be aggregated — for example across Traditional email.
source or organization.
Searchingcan happen across all interactions using Traditional email.
traditional searching tools - subject, key word,
'
4
participant.
Uses a graphical tool to illustrate network characteristics. All communication
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Every communication is tagged to both parties’ email address and linked into common
record. It captures all in and outbound email, tweets, chats between you and partner/
network companies. Communicatiors are captured by way of plugins for Outlook and other
email clients, and API feeds for web-based services, automatically sending a copy of the
.mail to the repository and recording the various metadata associated with -the
communication, such as the sender, the recipient. the time and date. of receipt and any
other characteristics of the mail. Attachments are also filed in the same way and linked to
the communication.
Initially, not all mail recipients maybe members of the platform, so non-members of
designated mails will be invited to join the network when they receive the mail. In the
meantime, their mails will be stored against their email addresses. As soon as that email
address holderjoins, all of those mails will be accessible and searchable. Upload previous
sent items into record. Figure 7 depicts an example email according to one implementation
of this embodiment in which links and instructions as to how to sign up to the service of the
invention are included.
In some implementations, the system integrates with third party social media platfomis to
enable users to share information about the project on those platforms and at the same
time ‘spread the word’ aboutthe system of the invention. I-”Igure 8 provides an example of
such a communication in which a user is asking for opinions relating to paint colour within
the facebook platform.
All communications are searchable using an indexed search engine. Users can search
across all communications they have received and for members of a domain (such as a
company), across all communications sent or received by any member within that domain.
In some implementations, a user may decide that they do not want any personal mail to be
captured. The user can therefore deselect a mail for capture at the time of sending.
Howeverthis would not stop the recipient from filing the mail.
Example 2
In this example, the system and method of the invention is referred to as the ‘Easy As’
offering and relates to the area of building construction project management.
l-‘igure 9 depicts an example high level technical architecture according to certain
embodiments of the invention. In this example, the Easy As architecture primarily consists
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of a Software as a Service (Saas) offering that may be accessed through the Internet from
a range of different devices, such as desktop web browsers or native mobile client
applications.
ln the embodiments depicted in Figure 9 the hosted service comprises databases. file
storage and a mail queue integrated with the backend API (Application Programming
Interface). ln this embodiment, the payment gateway and social sites access the backend
API. A user can access the hosted service via the intemet, and for example using a
desktop or mobile device.
Figure 10 is a class diagram of the high level components of certain embodiments of the
invention. ln_this example embodiment:
- The Project module manages aspects of registering projects on the system. This rmy
for example includes all information for projects, including participants.
- The billing module contains information about billing and payment information of the
system. It is also responsible for providing or denying access to projects depending on
whether payments are up to date.
- - The messaging module provides users with the ability to send messages and keep track
of conversations.
- The document module will allow for the management of documents, which includes
multimedia files such as photos or videos. ltallows for reviewing and versioning of _
documents to facilitate collaboration between different parties.
- The milestone module manages the schedule and milestones for each project. Users
are able to configure custom milestones for each project and confirm when each
milestone has been reached.
o The social module allows users to push notifications and events to social media such as
Facebook, Twitter. Pinterest and others.
A o The decision registry maintains key decision points that have been made during the
process. Decisions can- come from different sources, for example at end of a threaded
discussion or at a particular version of a document.
o The packaging module produces a report that is packaged in a concise and visually
appealing manner. Events such as photo uploads, milestones and key decisions will be
presented on a timeline along with infomiation from other sources like weather or news
channels.
Figure 11 is a state transition diagram of milestones according to the exemplary
embodiments of Figure 10. It will be appreciated that milestones are a key element of
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running a project such as the building construction schedule of this example.
l-"Igure 12 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for a user signing in.
The user signs into the system and may use pre-defined credentials (such as those used
forfacebook, Google+, Open|D), or any other suitable single sign on or social media
provider. After the first sign-on the system creates a new user profile which may be
modified by the user at any time.
Figure 13 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for a builder
registering a new project in some exemplary embodiments. When new projects are
registered billing is issued and payment collected. Other collaborators on the project such
as sub contractors, the architect and the building owner are notified. The project is
announced on Social Media sites which may for example be pre-selected.
Figure 14 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for certain
messaging and information sharing options according to some exemplary embodiments.
The systems allows users to send messages to other collaborators in the project. The
simplest message format is a threaded discussion. Messages may contain photos of the
building site ‘or documents related to the building. Threaded discussion may also result in
final decisions that are registered in the decision register for future reference of project
decisions. At every stage messages or parts of messages may be elected to be posted on
social media channels.
l-'lgure 15 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for configuring and
publishing building milestones according to some exemplary embodiments. The system
allows project users to configure milestones and a schedule relating to each milestone.
When milestones are created or modified other collaborators on the project are notified. A
builder can record project progress against a milestone and schedule. Progress reports
can optionally contain supporting material such as plans or photos of the building site.
Other collaborators are notified of progress; reports via the system or Social Media
channels.
Figure 16 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flow for collaborating on
documents and milestones according to some exemplary embodiments. The system allows
users to collaborate around various files such as documents, photos and milestones.
Versioned copies of documents are hosted on the system and users can enter in
conversations around these documents via the messaging system or publish documents
(e.g. photos) to Social Media sites. Documents are used as the base material for final
decisions which are recorded in the decision register.
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l-"igure 17 is an interaction diagram depicting an example process flowbfor packaging and
reporting according to some exemplary embodiments. A user requests a"packaged report
that contains all the information captured for a given project in a concise format.‘ The
package containsa summary of all sub systems over the duration of the project an_d can be
published to Social Media platforms.
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Claims:
1. A project management system comprising at least one social media tool to
increase the effectiveness of communicating information associated with the
project.
2. A computer implemented method comprising: storing data associated with a
project in a data store, associating at least one user with the project using at least
one data type, and providing a communication tool to enable the user to
communicate to another person about the project.
3. A project management system comprising: a processor executing instructions
stored on a memory; and the memory comprising: a data storage module configured
to store information about a project; a user data module configured to associate at
least one user with the project, using at least one data type and a communication
module to enable the user to communicate to another person about the project.
4. A computer implemented method for communicating about a project comprising:
outputting by a server device an information interface for display by a client device
and thereby providing a user with the ability to communicate about a project;
receiving by a server device at least one instruction from the user in relation to the
project; and enabling a communication about the project.
5. An apparatus, comprising: a storage device; and a processor coupled to the
storage device, wherein the storage device stores a program for controlling the
processor, and wherein the processor, being operative with the program, is
configured to cause output by a server device of an information interface for display
by a client device and thereby providing a user with the ability to communicate
about a project; receiving by a server device at least one instruction from the user
in relation to the project; and enabling a communication about the project.
6. A computerized system for social project management comprising: a project
module to manage registration of projects on the system; a messaging module to
enable a user to send messages and keep track of conversations; a document module
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to allow for the management of documents; and a milestone module to manage the
schedule and / or milestones for each project.
7. The system according to claim 6 comprises one or more of: a billing module to
manage billing; a social module to enable a user to push notifications and events to
social media; a decision registry to maintain one or more decisions that have been
made during the process; and a packaging module to produce a report.
8. The method of claim 2 or claim 4 comprising the step of associating a plurality
of projects with one another.
9. The system ofanyone ofclaims 1, 3, 5 or 6 comprising one ofthe following
i) search module to enable search.
ii) a rating module to enable a first user to add information about a second user
wherein the information is optionally rating information and / or recommendation
information and the second user is optionally a service provider or a collaborator.
iii) a marketing module to enable marketing messages to be displayed in the system.
10. The method of claim 2 or claim 4 comprising the steps of receiving a search
instruction via a user interface; conducting a search according to the search
instruction and optionally a predefined criterion; and displaying one or more search
results.
11. The method of claim 2 of claim 4 comprising one ofthe following steps
i) the step of receiving from a first user, information relevant to a second user
wherein the information optionally comprises rating information and or
recommendation information and wherein the second user is optionally a service
provider or a collaborator.
ii) the steps of receiving and / or collecting marketing information relevant to one
or more users and / or one or more projects; receiving atleast one instruction in
relation to marketing; and displaying a marketing message to a user wherein the
marketing message is optionally displayed once a predetermined criterion is met.