Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

Evaluative shopping assistant system and method to provide the consumer with information about a product the consumer is interested in. The system includes a hand-held device having a bar code reader or other unique means of entering a product identifier, and a display mechanism. The hand-held device is connected via wired or wireless connection to a computer that is connected to a database of information. In use, the hand-held device reads the bar code, sends the bar code information to the computer, and the computer retrieves the appropriate information about the product from the database. The computer then sends the retrieved information to the hand-held device for display of the retrieved information. The information stored on the database may include information provided by the manufacturer, the retailer (or, more generally, seller), or consumers. When consumer information is provided, a consumer may view qualitative information, such as other consumer's opinions about the product, not normally provided by the manufacturer or seller. The system allows a seller to continuously collect marketing information about products and gives consumers a sense of community by allowing them to share information and opinions about products. In another embodiment, the database consists of generic information for location of the consumer or products by use of the product name or UPC number. In this manner, a consumer can, while shopping, easily find a product of interest and be directed to the product's location.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim