WO2006007640A1

WO2006007640A1 - Service provision

Info

Publication number: WO2006007640A1
Application number: PCT/AU2005/001050
Authority: WO
Inventors: Peter Vincent Walker; Elizabeth Mary Ellen Turner-Walker
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2004-07-16
Filing date: 2005-07-15
Publication date: 2006-01-26
Anticipated expiration: 2007-01-16

Abstract

A method of obtaining a service. The method includes sensing a symbol using a reading device (100), and then in a processing system, transferring symbol data representing the sensed symbol to a base station (110). The base station is responsive to the symbol data to determine a respective service specification, and transfer an indication of the service associated with the service specification to the processing system (120). The processing system then presents details of the service to a user allowing a user to determine if the service is to be performed (130). Following this, and in response to a successful determination, the processing system transfers confirmation data to the base station, allowing the base station to respond to cause the respective service to be performed (150).

Description

SERVICE PROVISION

Background of the Invention

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing services using a symbol, and in particular to a method and apparatus for providing services, such as parking services, the provision of digital or other goods, or the like, in response to scanning of the symbol.

Description of the Prior Art

The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

There is a need for a convenient, effortless and secure method of transacting business over the wireless Internet. Established methods of Internet commerce, such as credit card purchase or bank account funds transfer are less well suited to many or most mobile Internet transactions. For instance because of the small amounts of money involved in such transactions the costs to the vendor associated with credit card charges significantly reduces or removes their profit margin, such that they cannot afford to offer the service to mobile customers.

Another problem is security, with phone users less inclined than users of the wired Internet to enter sensitive details or access personal bank accounts across the less secure connections of the mobile Internet, particularly as many such transactions would be completed in public areas, with greater scope for malicious persons to scan the wireless spectrum to capture such data transfer. Additionally, in many situations where mobile commerce transactions would be most convenient and useful, the vendors perhaps operate in a home-based, irregular, or other ad hoc manner of business. In consequence they lack the credentials necessary to obtain business bank accounts or access to other .transaction schemes. In short, it can often be difficult for small businesses to implement point of sale transaction systems.

Even in the case of larger entities, the administration of transaction systems can be a complex and difficult procedure. This is particularly the case where transactions are distributed over a large area, such as in the case of parking schemes, where motorists pay to park vehicles in a range of different locations. This in turn has led to the development of a number of different commercial models for providing services, such as parking services, in a distributed environment.

Most existing systems utilise meters which require consumers to provide cash or coins in order to purchase parking services. Increasingly however, consumers do not carry small change required by such meters, meaning they must obtain change before parking, thereby making the general process inconvenient. To address this issue recent parking systems have implemented the use of "smartcard" technology, allowing users to pay through the use of a card which has been pre-charged with credit. However, these systems still take substantial time and effort to book and pay for a parking space, as well as requiring the use of expensive technology, which results in a high set-up cost. Such complex systems are also more vulnerable to faults and vandalism, making them expensive to implement and maintain.

Moreover, this newer infrastructure is increasingly costly for councils to acquire and operate, with booths having to be robust enough for both coin collection and smartcard operation. In addition, with computerisation meters can no longer "stand alone", but need a constant supply of electrical power. To solve this problem some systems employ solar panels, so adding to the initial expense, as well as the potential for vandalism.

Furthermore, coins must still be accepted in these meters, so the expense associated with collection of monies has not been removed but instead the entire system expands in overheads and requirements for logistical management.

To address these problems, it is known to administer services such as parking provision using symbols. For example, Baracoda Wireless Technology have implemented a system in which parking authorities use a hand-held scanner which identifies a parked car and its owner, and hence whether parking fees are paid, based on a sticker unique to the respective car. The sticker is linked to a prepaid user account owned by the resident. However, this requires users to have a unique sticker provided on their car, which must be obtained during a prior registration procedure, and placed on the car in advance.

The requirement of a unique sticker for each car results in a wide range of unique stickers being required, which in turn results in difficulty in administering the system. This is exacerbated by the fact that the stickers are only used for a single purpose, which may ultimately require the user to be provided with a number of stickers, for example, for obtaining different services, or if they are to park in areas administered by different parking authorities. Furthermore, specialised equipment is still required to scan the car stickers and administer the system. Finally, in order to allow non-registered users to park, this still requires the provision of coin based services.

In other systems users are able to pay for parking using mobile phone and credit card payments. In this case, once parked, they press a particular button on the nearest pay-and-display machine, call a hotline number on their mobile phone, and follow a set of instructions, including entering an indication of how long is needed for parking, in order for a ticket to be issued. This is then charged either to a credit card account based on provided details, or to the user's phone account. However, these systems tend to be complex and time consuming for the user in entering the required details, which has limited their use. Also, the systems described above provide no alteration or improvement in the manner of detecting parking infringements, or in the utilization of resources such as parking ordinance officers.

Summary of the Present Invention

In a first broad form the present invention provides a method of obtaining a service, the method including: a) sensing a symbol using a reading device; b) in a processing system: i) transferring symbol data representing the sensed symbol to a base station, the base station being responsive to the symbol data to determine a respective service specification, the base station transferring an indication of a service associated with the service specification to the processing system; iϊ) presenting details of the service to a user; iii) determining if the service is to be performed; and, iv) in response to a successful determination, transferring confirmation data to the base station, the base station being responsive to the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed.

Typically the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving option data from the base station, the option data being indicative of a number of service options; b) presenting an indication of the options to the user using the option data; c) determining the service option to be performed; and, d) transferring the selection data to the base station, the base station being responsive to the selection data to determine a respective service option, the service being performed in accordance with the selected service option.

Typically the method includes selecting a plurality of options.

Typically the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving transaction data representing a transaction associated with the service to be performed; b) presenting an indication of the transaction to the user using the transaction data; c) determining if the service is to be performed; and, d) in response to a positive determination, transferring confirmation data to the base station.

Typically the method includes, in the processing system, transferring an identifier to the base station with the symbol data, the base station being responsive to the identifier to determine an identity of at least one of: a) the processing system; and, b) the user.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) determining user data using the identifier; and, b) performing the service using information contained in the user data.

Typically the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving account status data representing the status of the user's account; and, b) presenting an indication of the account status to the user using the account status data; c) determining if the account is to be replenished; and, d) in response to a positive determination, transferring account data to the base station, the base station being responsive to the account data to replenish the account in a predetermined manner.

Typically the method includes, in the base station, updating a database using the confirmation data to thereby cause the service to be performed.

Typically the service includes at least one of: a) obtaining parking facilities; b) purchasing goods; c) booking an event; d) updating a time sheet; e) entering a contest; f) providing transportation; g) using the processing system for a predetermined action; h) obtaining information; i) obtaining multimedia; and, j) obtaining content.

Typically the service includes obtaining vehicle parking services, and wherein the method includes scanning a symbol representing a parking space to thereby obtain parking services.

Typically the symbol represents a cluster of parking bays, and wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) determining a bay of the cluster of bays; and, b) transferring an indication of the bay to the base station, the base station being responsive to the bay indication to provide parking for the respective bay.

Typically the method includes, in the processing system: a) determining a duration; and, b) transferring an indication of the duration to the base station, the base station being responsive to the duration indication to provide parking for the respective duration.

Typically the service includes providing content, and wherein the method includes: a) scanning a symbol representing content to be provided; and, b) receiving the content.

Typically the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving the content; and, b) presenting the content to the user.

Typically the content is provided in accordance with one or more service options, the service options including at least one of: a) a format of the content; b) a location to which the content is provided; c) a content type.

Typically the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving a receipt number; and, b) presenting the receipt number to a user, thereby allowing the user to present the receipt number to obtain a service.

Typically the service includes obtaining products from a third party, and wherein the method includes providing an indication of the receipt number to the third party.

Typically the third party is at least one of: a) an individual; b) a commercial business entity, such as a company; and, c) a vending machine.

Typically the method includes, in the base station, a) debiting a user account; b) generating the receipt number in response to the debiting of the user account; and, c) transferring the receipt number to at least one of: i) the user; and, ii) the third party.

Typically the symbol represents goods to be purchased, and wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) determining attributes of the goods to be purchased; and, b) transferring an indication of the attributes to the base station, the base station being responsive to the attributes to cause the goods to be provided.

In a second broad form the present invention provides a method of obtaining a service, the method including: a) sensing a symbol using a reading device; b) in a processing system: i) transferring to a base station:

(1) symbol data representing the sensed symbol; and,

(2) an identifier, the base station being responsive to the symbol data and the identifier to: (a) determine a respective service specification; and,

(b) transfer content to the processing system in accordance with the service specification and the identifier.

In a third broad form the present invention provides a method of performing a service, the method including, in a base station: a) receiving, from a processing system, symbol data representing a symbol sensed by a reading device; b) using the symbol data to determine a respective service specification; c) causing the processing system to present an indication of the service to a user; d) receiving confirmation data from the processing system; and, e) using the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving an identifier from the processing system; and, b) using the identifier to determine an identity of at least one of: i) the processing system; and, ii) the user.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) determining a user access level using the identifier; b) determining a service access level using the service specification; c) comparing the user access level to the service access level; and, d) providing the service in response to a successful comparison.

Typically the method includes, in the base station, transferring data to the processing system using the identifier.

Typically the method includes, in the base station, determining account status data using the identifier. Typically the method includes, in the base station, determining user data in accordance with the identifier.

Typically the method includes transferring data to the processing system using the identifier.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) determining option data from the service specification; b) transferring the option data to the processing system, the processing system being adapted to present an indication of the options to the user and determine a selected service option; c) receiving selection data; and, d) using the selection data to perform the service in accordance with the selected service option.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) determining transaction data from the service specification; b) transferring the transaction data to the processing system, the processing system being adapted to present an indication of the transaction to the user and determine if the transaction is to be performed; c) receiving confirmation data; and, d) using the confirmation data to perform the service.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) determining an account associated with the user; b) determining if sufficient funds exist in the account to perform the service; c) in response to a successful determination, debiting the account of the user, and causing the service to be performed.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) determining account status data; b) transferring the account status data to the processing system, the processing system being adapted to present an indication of the account status to the user and determine if the transaction is to be replenished; c) receiving account data; and, d) using the account data to replenish the account in a predetermined manner.

Typically the symbol represents a cluster of parking bays, and wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving an indication of a selected bay from the processing system; and, b) providing parking for the respective bay.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving an indication of a selected duration; b) providing a parking for the respective duration.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving the service specification from a supplier; b) generating a symbol associated with service specification; and, c) transferring the symbol to the supplier.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) determining a service implementation method from the service specification; and, b) using the service implementation method to perform the service.

Typically the method of performing the service includes at least one of: a) modifying service data in a data store; and, b) transferring an indication of the service to be performed to a supplier processing system, the supplier processing system being responsive to the indication to perform the service.

Typically the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving request data indicative of a request; b) determining a service status using the request data and the service data; and, c) providing an indication of the service status. Typically the method includes, in the base station transferring the service status to a processing system.

Typically the service includes providing content, and wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) determining the content using at least one of: i) the symbol data; and, ii) at least one service option; and, b) transferring the content to at least one of: i) the processing system; and, ii) a device specified by the user.

Typically the content is provided in accordance with one or more service options, the service options including at least one of: a) a format of the content; b) a location to which the content is provided; and, c) a content type.

Typically the symbol represents goods to be purchased, and wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving an indication of attributes of the goods to be purchased; and, b) cause the goods to be provided in accordance with the attributes.

In a fourth broad form the present invention provides a method of performing a service, the method including, in a base station: a) receiving, from a processing system: i) symbol data representing a symbol sensed by a reading device; and, ii) an identifier; b) using the symbol data to determine a respective service specification; c) causing the processing system to present an indication of the service to a user; d) transferring content to the processing system in accordance with the service specification and the identifier.

In a fifth broad form the present invention provides a method of supplying a service, the method including, in a supplier processing system: a) determining a service specification, the service specification defining at least one of: i) one or more service options; ii) one or more transaction values; and, iii) a manner of implementing the one or more service options; b) determining a symbol associated with the service specification; and, c) providing the service using the symbol.

Typically the method includes, in the supplier processing system: a) transferring the specification to a base station, the base station being responsive to the specification to generate the symbol; b) receiving the symbol from the base station.

Typically the method includes, in the supplier processing system: a) receiving an indication of the service to be performed from the base station; and, b) performing the respective service.

Typically the symbol is at least one of: a) a visible symbol; b) a 2D barcode; c) a digefont; and, d) a digepic.

Typically the symbol is a visible symbol adapted to be sensed by an optical, digital or laser scanner.

In a sixth broad form the present invention provides apparatus for obtaining a service, the apparatus including: a) a reading device for sensing a symbol; b) a processing system for: i) transferring symbol data representing the sensed symbol to a base station, the base station being responsive to the symbol data to determine a respective service specification, the base station transferring an indication of the service to be performed to the processing system; ii) presenting details of the service to the user; iii) determining the service is to be performed; and, iv) transferring to the base station confirmation data, the base station being responsive to the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed.

Typically the processing system forms part of at least one of: a) a mobile phone; b) a PDA; and, c) a computer.

Typically the scanning device includes a digital camera, laser scanner or other suitable device.

In a seventh broad form the present invention provides apparatus for obtaining a service, the method including: a) a reading device for sensing a symbol; b) a processing system for: i) transferring to a base station: (1) symbol data representing the sensed symbol; and,

(2) an identifier, the base station being responsive to the symbol data and the identifier to:

(a) determine a respective service specification; and,

In an eighth broad form the present invention provides apparatus for performing a service, the apparatus including a base station for: a) receiving symbol data representing a symbol sensed by a processing system; b) using the symbol data to determine a respective service specification; c) causing the processing system to present an indication of the service to the user; d) receiving confirmation data from the processing system; and, e) using the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed.

Typically the base station performs the method of claim 24.

In a ninth broad form the present invention provides apparatus for performing a service, the apparatus including a base station for: a) receiving, from a processing system: i) symbol data representing a symbol sensed by a reading device; and, ii) an identifier; b) using the symbol data to determine a respective service specification; c) causing the processing system to present an indication of the service to a user; d) transferring content to the processing system in accordance with the service specification and the identifier.

In a tenth broad form the present invention provides apparatus for supplying a service, the apparatus including a supplier processing system for: a) determining a service specification, the service specification defining at least one of: i) one or more service options; ii) one or more transaction values; and, iii) a manner of implementing the one or more service options; b) determining a symbol associated with the service specification; and, c) providing the service using the symbol.

In an eleventh broad form the present invention provides a method of facilitating user interaction with a processing system, the method including, in the processing system: a) determining user interaction data defining one or more user interactions; b) generating a user interaction element in accordance with the determined data; and, c) presenting the user interaction element to thereby allow the user to interact with the processing system.

Typically the user interaction element includes at least one of: a) a character; b) a logo; and, c) a playable media.

Typically the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving the user interaction data; b) selecting a element definition file defining the user interaction element from a number of element definition files stored in a store using the received interaction data; and, c) generating the user interaction element using the element definition file and the user interaction data.

Typically the user interaction element includes a character, and the method includes, in the processing system: a) generating a representation of the character using the element definition file; and, b) animating the character representation using the user interaction data.

Typically the method including a method according to any of the broad forms of the invention, wherein the user interaction data includes at least one of: a) confirmation data; b) transaction data; c) account status data; and, d) option data.

In a twelfth broad form the present invention provides a method of obtaining a service, the method including: a) sensing a tag identifier stored in a tag using a reading device; b) in a processing system: i) transferring tag data representing the sensed tag identifier to a base station, the base station being responsive to the tag data to determine a respective service specification, the base station transferring an indication of a service associated with the service specification to the processing system; ii) presenting details of the service to a user; iii) determining if the service is to be performed; and, iv) in response to a successful determination, transferring confirmation data to the base station, the base station being responsive to the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed.

In a thirteenth broad form the present invention provides a method of performing a service, the method including, in a base station: a) receiving, from a processing system, tag data representing a tag identifier sensed from a tag by a reading device; b) using the tag data to determine a respective service specification; c) causing the processing system to present an indication of the service to a user; d) receiving confirmation data from the processing system; and, e) using the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed.

The twelfth and thirteenth broad forms of the invention can be performed using the methods of any one of the other broad forms of the invention with the tag data replacing the symbol data and the tag replacing the symbol.

Brief Description of the Drawings An example of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: -

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of a system for providing services; Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an example of the processing system of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an example of the end station of Figure 1; Figure 4 is a flow chart of an example of the process of providing a service;

Figure 5 is a flow chart of an example of the registration process for a service supplier;

Figures 6 A and 6B are a flow chart of an example of the process of providing a service;

Figure 7 is a flow chart of an example of the process of notifying the status of the service provision.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

An example of a system for providing services will now be described with reference to Figure 1. In particular, as shown the system is formed from a base station 1 coupled to a number of end stations 3, and optionally supplier end stations 5, via respective communications networks 2, 4. The base station 1 typically includes a processing system 10 coupled to a database 11 as shown.

In use, the end stations 3 are adapted to scan symbols and then communicate with the base station 1 to allow services to be selected and subsequently performed based on the scanning of the symbol. The supplier end stations 5 are also typically adapted to communicate with the base station 1 to allow the service to be performed.

It will therefore be appreciated that the end stations 3 may be any form of device which is capable of scanning symbols and then communicating with the base station 1. Similarly, the base station 1 must be able to communicate with the end stations 3 and cause the service to be implemented, for example by communicating with the end stations 5.

It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that this may be achieved utilising a number of communications systems. Thus, for example, the communications network 2 may be the Internet, with the communications network 4 being local area networks (LANs), local wireless hotspots, telecommunications networks such as the GSM or 3G mobile phone networks, or the like.

An example of a suitable processing system 10 is shown in Figure 2. In this example the processing system 10 is formed from a processor 20, a memory 21, an input/output device 22 and external interface 23 coupled together via a bus 24. In use, the external interface allows the processing system 10 to be coupled to the database 11 and optionally to the communications networks 2, 4.

It will therefore be appreciated that the processing system 10 may be any suitable processing system such as a suitably programmed server, computer, lap-top, or specialised hardware or the like.

An example of one of the end stations 3, 5 is shown in Figure 3. In this example the end station 3 is formed from a processor 30, a memory 31 and input/output (I/O) device 32, such as a keypad and display, and an external interface 33, coupled together via a bus 34. In use the external interface 33 is adapted to allow the end station 3 to be connected to a scanning device shown at 35 for scanning symbols. The external interface 33 may also be used for coupling the end stations 3, 5 to the Communications networks 2, 4.

Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the end stations 3, 5 may be formed from any suitable processing device, such as a computer, lap-top, PDA, suitably programmed mobile phone, or the like which is coupled to a suitable scanning device shown at 35. The scanning device 35 may be any suitable scanning device, such as a digital camera, a handheld laser scanner, such as the LS series of handheld scanners available from Symbol™ Technologies, or any other suitable scanning device, optical reader, or the like.

The general process performed by the system will now be described with reference to Figure 4. [Alistair, boxes in Fig 4 refer to "scanning device 3" which I think is meant to be 35]In particular, at step 100 a user scans a symbol using the scanning device 35. The end station then communicates with the base station 1, at step 110, allowing the base station 1 to determine the scanned symbol and hence determine a service at step 120.

At step 130 the base station 1 communicates with the end station 3 to allow the user to confirm the transaction is to be performed at step 130. At step 140 the end station 3 again communicates with the base station 1, allowing the base station 1 to debit the user for the requested service, if this is required, at step 150. At step 160 the base station 1 then causes the service to be performed, [step 160 missing in fig 4]

Accordingly, from this it will be appreciated that the base station 1 is typically implemented by an entity that operates to administer services on behalf of service suppliers, which provide the products and services to the general public.

In order to achieve this, a service supplier may therefore register with the entity operating the base station allowing services to be registered and subsequently implemented. An example of the manner in which this may be achieved will now be described with reference to Figure 5.

In this example, the service supplier provides goods to end users, although it will be appreciated that the techniques may also apply to other services.

At step 200 the supplier registers with the base station 1, with the base station 1 operating to set up an account for the supplier at step 210. The account is a private account held with the base station 1 and is used to allow the supplier to gain remuneration for the provision of the respective services. As will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art the registration process will typically include assigning the supplier with usernames, passwords, or the like and this will not therefore be described in detail. At step 220 the supplier provides one or more specifications defining the service to be performed. Thus, the specifications define anything which the entity operating the base station 1 will need to know in order to perform the service. This may include:

• One or more service options, such as types of goods available; • Transaction information representing the cost of providing the service; and,

• Details of the manner of implementation.

This information may be defined in any one of a number of ways, but is typically performed by having the supplier provide the details to an appropriate form. By presenting the form on the supplier end station 5, and using a graphical user interface (GUI) to prompt the supplier of the required information, this can ensure standardisation of the specifications to thereby aid the interpretation by the base station 1. In one example, the supplier end station 5 provides the specification in the form of an XML file.

Thus, for example, for providing goods, the specifications will indicate respective types of goods available, together with any options associated with the goods. Thus, for example, in the case of clothing, the specification will typically indicate available sizes and colours, whereas for digital media, the specification would typically indicate different media formats. At step 230 the base station 1 operates to assign one or more symbols based on the specifications. Thus, for example, a single symbol may be associated with each specification, or alternatively, a number of symbols may be required for each specification depending on the implementation.

It will be appreciated that in the example of clothing, it is typical to assign a respective symbol to each type or style of article, so that the article type can be identified uniquely by the symbol, with attributes such as clothing size and colour being identified by a corresponding service option. Ih this case, if each type or style of article is defined by a respective specification, then only a single symbol will be defined for the specification, whereas if a number of types of article are defined within the specification, a corresponding number of symbols are provided.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the symbols are only required to uniquely identify data in the specification, and can therefore take on any one of a number of forms and can be generated and transferred to the supplier using a wide range of techniques.

Thus, for example, the symbols may be formed from 2D barcodes or the like with the barcode being generated in accordance with data in the specification, or the like. Alternatively, any form of symbol may be used which is instantly recognisable to end users as a symbol associated with the system. This may include for example Digepics or Digefonts, described in the copending International Patent Application number PCT/AU2005/000768. In general, the symbol will include error encoding, such as Reed Solomon encoding, to ensure that it can be successfully decoded by the scanning device 35, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

The base station 1 stores an indication of the symbols and the associated specification in the database 11 at step 240. This allows the base station 1 to associate respective symbols with the respective specification in due course, and may be achieved using an appropriate mapping of data encoded within the symbol and a corresponding identifier in the specification, such as a clothing article identifier.

At step 250 the supplier uses the symbols to provide the service.

Thus, in the clothing example, the supplier providing the clothes will apply the symbol associated with the clothes in some way. Thus for example, if the supplier uses a web based system, the symbol can be presented on a web page adjacent a representation of the clothing, allowing this to be selected by the user when the web page is viewed. This could also be performed by printing the symbols in catalogues or the like, thereby allowing the user to scan the catalogue to automatically add respective clothing items to a shopping list, or the like. It is also possible to use the symbol on clothing tags in store, thereby allowing the same symbol to be used in a range of different circumstances.

In any event, the manner in which a service may be obtained will now be described with reference to Figure 6 A and 6B.

Prior to being able to interact with the system a user must undergo a registration procedure. As in the case of the supplier registration, the registration procedure will involve the user providing various personal details, before being assigned a username, password or the like, together with an account for making payments. The user may also configure one or more default payment options which may be used to replenish the account if required. The account is a private account held with the entity operating the base station 1 and is used to ensure that funds are available for performing requested services.

In general, when performing registration the user will be associated with a respective communications device, such as the end station 3. This is achieved by using a unique identifier associated with the device, such as the MAC (Media Access Control) address, or IP address of either the end station 3, or the scanning device 35, or the like. For example, if the end station is formed from a mobile phone, the association could be based on the phone number. This identifier is stored in the database 11 and used by the base station 1 to identify the user for future transactions.

In general the user details associated with the identifier will depend on the respective implementation and the services to be requested, hi general, the minimum details will include the users first and last name, email address and credit card/bank account details. In the parking example, the user details may also include the car registration number, or the like. After registering, the user may be required to undergo confirmation of registration, in which a symbol is displayed on a computer screen, allowing the user to scan the symbol, which in turn causes the base station 1 to perform a validation that all the required information is provided, although this is not essential.

In any event, at step 300 the user scans the symbol associated with a respective service, in this case, a respective clothing item, using the scanning device 35. At step 310 the end station 3 generates symbol and identifier data, respectively indicative of the symbol and the scanning device or end station's unique identifier, which is transferred to the base station 1. The base station 1 uses the symbol data to determine a service specification by accessing the service specifications stored in the database 11, at step 320, whilst simultaneously using the identifier data to identify the user.

At this point, if it is determined that the user is currently unregistered, the user is typically redirected to a registration page, to allow the registration process to be performed in situ, thereby allowing the clothing services to be obtained by any users.

Assuming the user is registered, at step 330 the processing system 10 examines the service specifications and determines if there are any associated service options.

In this example, as the symbol represents a clothing article, the user has to select a colour, and size. Thus, in this example, when the user selects an article and scans the symbol associated with the article an indication of this is transferred to the base station 1. The base station 1 determines from the associated specification that a respective colour and size must be specified and therefore proceeds to step 340 to generate option data which is transferred to the base station 3.

At step 350 the end station 3 will display the options to the user using the I/O device 32 allowing the user to select an option to be performed. Thus, in the current example, the end station 3, such as the user's mobile phone or the like will indicate to the user that a size and colour must be selected. The user provides an indication of the selection using the I/O device 32 allowing the end station 3 to generate selection data which is transferred to the base station 1 at step 360.

Having determined the respective service options at step 370, the base station 1 determines if any further options exist by returning to step 330. Thus, if multiple options exist, the process may repeat steps 330 to 370 a number of times, as required by the specification.

Once all options are determined, or if there are no service options to be selected, the base station 1 generates transaction data and transfers this to the end station 3, at step 380. The transaction data will indicate the cost of the transaction, and may allow a number of different response options to be selected. Thus, in this example the transaction data will indicate the expense of the article. In this sense, the term transaction does not per se require any cost to be associated with the provision of the service, and instead may only require that the transaction data provide details of the manner in which the service is to be performed.

At step 390 the end station 3 will display the transaction information to the user allowing the user to confirm the transaction is to be performed in the specified manner and on the basis of any specified cost. At step 400 the end station 3 generates confirmation data confirming the transaction is to be performed, and any associated parameters, and transfers this to the base station 1.

At step 410 the base station 1 determines if transaction is a financial transaction such that payment is required and if so accesses a user account and determines if sufficient funds are available at step 420. If insufficient funds are available at step 430, the base station 1 generates account status data and transfers this to the end station 3, at step 440.

The end station 3 displays an indication of the account status to the user on the I/O device 32 allowing the user to confirm the account is to be replenished at step 450. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that in the event that no replenishment option has been provided, or in the event that the user refuses to replenish the account, then it is not possible for the user to obtain requested services without first replenishing the account.

At step 460 the end station 3 generates account data which is transferred to the base station 1, allowing the base station 1 to replenish the users account, at step 470. At step 480 after the account has been topped up, if sufficient funds are available, or if no payment is required, the base station 1 will cause the service action to be performed.

If at any stage during the above described process, the end station 3 is unable to communicate with the base station 1, then it is not possible for the process to proceed and the transaction is halted. In this instance the user of the system would typically be made aware of the transaction failure, for example through the use of a suitable message displayed on the end station3. In this instance, this allows the user to either attempt to perform the transaction again, for example by re-establishing the connection with the base station 1. In this case, the base station 1 can be adapted to store a record of partially completed transactions. When the end station 3 successfully re-establishes the connection, the base station 1 can use the unique identifier associated with the end station 3 to retrieve details of the partially completed transaction, allowing the transaction to continue from the point at which communication failed. Alternatively, the entire transaction procedure can be repeated.

In the event that the user end station 3 is unable to re-establish communication, the user can make alternative payment arrangements, for example, through existing parking meters, or the like. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the manner in which the service is performed will depend on the respective implementation and in particular, on the implementation defined in the specification.

For example, in the case of purchasing an article, the base station 1 can generate and issue a receipt number, which can be displayed to the user via the end station 3, and/or by transferring an indication of this to the user in some other manner, such as via email or by recording the details against account information.

The base station 1 can also transfer an indication of the receipt number to the vendor providing the article, allowing the vendor to determine the transaction has been performed.

If the transaction is performed remotely, the receipt number will typically be provided together with shipping information which may be determined automatically by the base station 1 from user account details, or which may be specified by the user as a service option.

Alternatively, for an on-site transaction in which the vendor and user are performing a face-to-face transaction, the vendor may ask for proof of receipt, with the user presenting the receipt number supplied to the end station 3, allowing the vendor to compare this to the received receipt number.

Parking Specific Implementation

An example of the application of this system to providing parking services will now be described.

In this example, the service specifications will indicate respective parking locations, such as bay clusters, together with an indication of a number of parking spaces or bays available. Thus, the specification will include respective fields with every parking bay in the local council area being identified by respective bay numbers, and bay cluster identifiers. In this example, each bay cluster is unique to the system, whilst bay numbers may be repeated within many bay clusters, as long as they are unique within each bay cluster. Accordingly, in this example, a parking bay is uniquely identified by a combination of a unique bay cluster and a bay number within the cluster.

In general, the specification may also define other attributes for each bay and/or each cluster, such as the maximum parking time allowed, bay categories, such as Disabled Drivers, Motorcyclists etc.

It will be appreciated that in this example, it is typical to assign a respective symbol to each bay cluster, so that the bay cluster can be identified uniquely by the symbol, with bays within the cluster being identified by the corresponding bay number. In this case, if each bay cluster is defined by a respective specification, then only a single symbol will be defined for the specification, whereas if a number of bay clusters are defined, a corresponding number of symbols are provided. Thus, in the parking example, the supplier providing the parking spaces will apply the symbol in the regions surrounding a bay cluster. This may include for example providing a printed version of the symbol on the road or curb side adjacent the bay cluster, or alternatively on existing parking meters or as alternative to existing parking meters. As will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art, as a respective symbol is defined for each bay cluster, it is important that the supplier arranges to display the correct symbol associated with the respective bay cluster.

It will be appreciated that by grouping bays in clusters, all potential parking bays may be uniquely identified using only a relatively small number of symbols, thereby improving the ease of administration of the system.

In this example, as the symbol represents a cluster of bays, the user has to designate in which bay they are parked. Thus, when the user parks their car they scan the symbol associated to the bay cluster and an indication of this is transferred to the base station 1. The base station 1 determines from the associated specification that a respective bay must be specified and therefore proceeds to step 340 to generate option data which is transferred to the base station 3. This may indicate for example "please select bay 1 to bay 8", thereby allowing the user to select their respective parking spot by a combination of the scanned symbol and a response option.

Once the bay has been selected, the user can be asked to select a duration as a response option. Alternatively, this may be performed after receipt of the transaction data which can indicate the cost of parking in the selected bay. In any event, the user may select, for example, parking for 2 hours is required at a rate of $2.00 per hour.

Once the bay and duration have been selected, the base station 1 will operate to debit the user account as described above, before causing the parking services to be provided. This may be achieved in a number of manners, but in one example, this is achieved by maintaining parking data in the database 11. The parking data indicates for each available bay within a designated area, such as within a city or within the region operated by the respective supplier, whether the bay is currently in use or not. In a basic implementation, the base station 1 can therefore update the parking data to indicate that a respective bay has now been booked by the respective user, and is in use.

Accordingly, "when parking inspectors are checking parking bays and issuing fines as required, it is possible for the inspector to access the database 11 and determine whether a car parked in the bay has made a payment for the bay.

In one implementation, this may be based solely on whether a bay which contains a car has been paid for. In another implementation, this can be based on provided registration details, which have been supplied by the user, and which are provided to the inspector, thereby allowing the inspector to check not only that the bay has been paid for, but that the bay has been paid for by the current user.

This can be achieved by having the inspector scan the symbol associated with a bay of interest using a suitable device such as an end station 3. This can be achieved using the transfer of data to the base station 1 as set out for example at step 300 onwards. Ih this case, the identifier of the scanning device can be used to determine the identity of the user as an inspector. This can in turn allow the inspector to receive details of which bays are in use, and additionally receive registration details. Additionally the inspector can use appropriate service option selections. Thus, the inspector's interactions can be defined within the same specification as those for other users.

It will be appreciated that the car registration number can be provided as part of the users personal details, or alternatively, the user may be requested to provide a registration number during the procedure, such as when as part of the service options. Thus, for example, part of the service options may involve requesting a user confirm whether the default car registration is to be used and if not allowing an alternative registration to be provided.

In addition to this, by maintaining a central database of parking bay usage, this allows statistics to be collected, and reports generated by the database to help more effectively target parking infringement. An example of this will now be described with reference to Figure 7.

In particular, at step 500 an inspector uses a communications device such as one of the end stations 3 to select one or more inquiries. The inquiries will correspond to respective information retrieval processes allowing the parking inspector to submit inquiries requesting information regarding unused bays in the vicinity. Alternatively, the request may focus on identifying bay clusters that generally have a high activity and again have a large number of currently vacant bays according to the database, since this can be immediately visually verified by the inspector.

At step 510 the end station 3 generates inquiry data based on the selected inquiry and transfers this to the base station 1. The base station 1 then determines a response from the parking data, such as an indication of vacant bay clusters or the like.

At step 530 the base station 1 transfers an indication of the determined information to the inspector via the end station 3. The inspector then issues fines based on the parking data in the normal way at step 540.

It will be appreciated that a wide range of reports can be generated depending on the implementation. For example, reports may include:

• The specific and aggregate number and location of parking spaces paid for in each street (and thus the number and location of parking spaces which are purportedly available) • An ordered list of streets that should have the most parking spaces available

• An ordered list of those parking spaces that are approaching their allowed paid-up limit.

• The amount of revenue which has been paid into the system

Similarly, a wide range of statistics can be collected, such as: • Parking bay balance (i.e.: unique money generated by each bay)

• Bay cluster balance

• Average time spent at each bay

• Category of user of each bay, and for how long

• Demographic information regarding users

In addition to using the database to monitor parking, it will be appreciated that the use of the central database 11 allows other features to be implemented. For example, by having the parking inspector transfer an indication of infringers to the base station 1, this allows distribution of infringement notices to be performed using the information in the database. In this case, registered users of the system can be invoiced for the infringement using the personal details on the system, allowing an infringement notice to be sent out automatically.

Furthermore, in this case, the infringement notice can include a symbol, which when scanned by the user, using the end station 3, causes the fine to be deducted from the account held by the base station 1. Alternatively, for non-registered users, fines can be issued in the normal way.

By maintaining details of performed transactions, this allows users of the system to obtain periodic receipts, which can be used for tax or expense purposes, or the like.

Finally, the user can set default parameters associated with their user details which allows them to be notified when predetermined criteria are satisfied. The effect of this will vary depending on the implementation of the system. In the parking system example, this could be used to allow the user to be notified when the duration for which parking has been reserved is due to expire, m this case, it is possible to transfer a message to the end station 3, such as a text message or the like, to indicate to the user that their parking is about to expire. This message can be in the form of a service option, which allows the user to automatically request extension to the parking period.

It will be appreciated that this provides a number of advantages over prior parking systems. Firstly, it is not necessary for a symbol to be issued for each car, or even each parking bay, as each symbol can be used to represent a number of bays.

The technology required to implement the system is relatively inexpensive, comprising from the suppliers perspective, only a computer system, and a means for printing symbols. Similarly from the end user's perspective, it is typically only required to have an internet-enabled mobile phone and associated scanning device, which can be provided relatively cheaply, and may even be provided free in return for registration with the system.

In the event that users are not registered with the system, it is still possible to obtain parking, either using existing techniques, or by scanning the symbol, and then undergoing registration. As a further option, local shops or the like, could provide payment facilities which allows the shop owner to complete the parking requirements on behalf of the customer, in the manner substantially as described above.

Thus, the process provides immediate and effortless booking and payment of parking spaces, as well as providing remote "top up" and automatic recording of the user's parking for budgeting and tax purposes.

As far as the supplier is concerned, the supplier is able to receive monies transferred electronically, giving them immediate access to revenue. Real-time information regarding parking bay occupancy can be immediately obtained, allowing parking inspectors to directly target potential infringements, thereby enabling much more efficient use of councils' resources. Thus, Parking Officers can have up-to-the- moment information on parking bays that are booked, expired or even those which are soon to expire. This allows for more accurate and speedy targeting of offenders.

A further, longer term advantage to be expected from this system is better compliance with parking ordinances by users, primarily due to the ease and convenience of payment.

In addition to this, statistics harvested from the parking meter usage patterns can be used to highlight areas of high demand, and areas of under-use, which can in turn be translated into better utilisation by management of alterations to parking fees and timescales in different areas.

Alterations to fees etc can be performed centrally by updating the specification or the database 11, and does not therefore require alteration of machine parameters at each parking location. This, in turn allows fees to be varied depending on the time period, so that parking can be more expensive during rush hour, or the like.

User Protection

Since the above described process of service provision is achieved by interaction with the base station 1, via the communications networks 2, 4 (including the Internet), triggered by scanning a symbol, it may be desirable that access to certain websites or services etc be restricted by the user. Therefore in order to provide this protection, various access levels to the base station's services are provided. This is achieved by defining access levels for users during the registration procedure. The access level can be stored as part of a user profile, so that when the base station 1 receives the symbol and end station identifier, the base station 1 will use this to determine the user, and hence to access the user profile.

Once this has been performed, the base station 1 will determine the service represented by the respective symbol, and determine if this may be accessed by the user based on the profile.

This is typically achieved by having an access level defined within the service specification for each service being provided. Accordingly, in use, the base station 1 will compare the access level of the user profiles with the access level contained with the service specification of the selected service, and use this to determine if the respective service is to be provided.

Thus, in the case of children it will be appreciated that the access levels will typically be set by the parents, so allowing the content and services accessed by the children to be carefully controlled.

Ih order to control such a system, it is typical for the service supplier registration procedure to require minimum user identification authentication protocols, with the service specification being periodically checked to ensure that the provided service is indicated to be at the correct access level.

Thus, for example, service providers providing services for children may be required to pay a fee for being included on a child access level, with the fee being used to monitor the provided services to ensure they are appropriate.

It is also possible for an indication of accessed services to be copied to a parents end station 3, thereby allowing the parent to monitor usage of the system by the children.

Having such a system could deter predators in several ways:

• Anonymity for predators would be removed as identification authentication is required;

• These points could be regularly verified, at least once per year, with the check being at a random time;

• as for primary school teachers and child care workers, who are required to have a police check, suppliers could be checked for any relevant criminal record;

• All these checks could be done by affiliates in the local area in which suppliers apply to have their symbol displayed;

• There would be a protocol for dealing with complaints or reporting of suspicious activity, so if there was cause for concern, the police would have powers to investigate on a warrant the details of the person on the ISP/symbol and discern the person' s genuine address from the database;

• There would be encouragement for parents/interested groups to review services provided to children and report any illicit activity; • Service suppliers would be responsible for undergoing vigorous checks of their own procedures to ensure they are maintaining details and standards.

Multiple Use Symbols

It will be appreciated that in some circumstances, symbols may be provided with multiple uses, and this can be achieved by defining an appropriate specification.

For example, symbols associated with providing parking services can also usefully provide access to emergency services, or other transport facilities, or the like. This dual functionality utilises the fact that the specification used for the parking services will already specify the location at which the symbol is provided. Accordingly, when the user scans the symbol and selects the transport or emergency service option, details of the user's location can automatically be transferred to the transport company or the emergency services, as set out in more detail in Appendix A.

Personalisation

In order to make use of the system more appealing to the end user, it is possible to personalise users interaction with the system by providing interactive characters, logos, content and other media which are presented to the user to assist the user in interfacing with the system. In order to achieve this characters or other content will be provided using applications software which interacts with the underlying software on the end station 3 in order to provide the user with instructions at appropriate points and "walk them through" such applications, based on the previously designed user interface.

For example, in above described system, when the user is required to provide indications of service options, the end station 3 can be adapted to present an animated character which presents the options in an audible/visual manner, or the like. Such characters would allow the above system and other applications software to become more enjoyable for users, and allow companies that license such characters, logo and song snippets, to potentially draw micro payment revenue from such additional licensing opportunities.

Teenagers especially, and other users, would appreciate the opportunity to have their favourite characters, songs and logos accompany them through these software applications, to make their routine use more enjoyable. While older, and perhaps less "tech-sawy" users would welcome having a friendly character lead them through an unfamiliar sequence of software screens and interactions.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that this could be achieved in a number of ways.

For example, in above described system, the process could be achieved through the use of specific applications software loaded on the end stations 3. In this case, when the end station 3 receives the data, such as options data from the base station 1, rather than simply displaying text representing the options available, the applications software installed on the end station 3 will detect the options data and launch an appropriate application to guide the user through the selection process. Thus the application will generate a representation of an animated character which presents the options in an audible/visual manner, or the like.

In this case, the character may be defined by the applications software provided on the end station 3, or may alternatively be provided as part of the data supplied by the base station 1. In the former case, the user can download definitions of a number of characters which can then be used either randomly, or based on the particular process being performed. Thus for example, the user can configure the system to present one character when buying music, and another character when obtaining parking services.

Alternatively, the characters used can be controlled by the base station 1. In this case, when the base station 1 provides data, such as options data to the end station 3, the options data will include a character definition. This allows service suppliers to specify which character is used. This can be achieved using an appropriate definition in the service specification, such that the character is representative of the service to be performed.

Thus, for example, if the user is purchasing children's toys, the character could be a children's toy character, such as Bob the Builder. Alternatively, if the user is obtaining parking services, the character could take the form of a parking inspector.

Thus, service suppliers, may submit a licensed character, song, logo or short clip, to a software creator, to be used as an add-on attraction to a software application, to make its routine use more enjoyable. Or alternatively, through a more "open system" approach, independent software producers can create such animated characters as applications able to be downloaded separately.

In either case, in order to achieve this, files defining the character are stored within a database, either in the base station 1, or the end station 3, and then accessed as required. The applications software which generates the representation would typically be provided in the end station 3. Thus in use, the end station 3 would launch the applications software and then obtain the character definition files either from internal memory or via download. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art, that the preferred mechanism will depend on a number of factors such as the size of the character definition files and the available connection bandwidth between the end station 3 and the base station 1.

As far as controlling the movement of the characters is concerned, this can be performed in accordance with known techniques that allow character appearance to be controlled in accordance with text or XML files, as described for example in EP1269465, to thereby reduce the amount of data that needs to be downloaded to the end station 3. This allows the character to be controlled using the options data or the like as will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art. This allows service suppliers to personalise the provision of their services, thereby making use of the system more appealing to end users.

General

It will therefore be appreciated from the above that this provides a system which allows a number of different transaction models to be implemented, which are extremely well suited to obtaining services, and electronic information and the like via download. This has a wide range of applications, such as booking and paying for movie tickets; paying for a parking spot in the city; buying the sound track of a movie that has just been seen, oτ the like.

The system allows this wide range of functionality to be easily achieved using a common architecture, based on available technologies, such as internet-enabled mobile phones. This allows retailers and companies to provide services so as to sell their products and services and enjoy the benefits of mobile commerce without the initial cost outlay. The consumers will benefit from prompter and better quality service from the companies.

Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous variations and modifications will become apparent. All such variations and modifications which become apparent to persons skilled in the art, should be considered to fall within the spirit and scope that the invention broadly appearing before described.

For example, whilst the above system has been described with respect to use of symbols, the methodology could be implemented using RPID (Radio Frequency Identity) tags. In this instance, each RFID tag would store a predetermined unique identifier which could be used to determine an associated specification, in manner similar to that described above for the symbol identifiers. In this instance, the optical scanner 35 would be replaced by a scanner capable of communicating with an RFID tag, as will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art. Thus, the tag identifier functions in the same manner as the symbol identifier in the techniques described above.

However, whilst RFID tags could be used, these suffer from a number of disadvantages. For example, RFID tags tend to be more expensive than the use of printed symbols, thereby increasing the cost of implementation. Reading information from the tags requires that the reader couple inductively power to the tag, which can in turn increase power usage within the scanning device, which can be an issue in devices having limited battery life, such as mobile phones. The RFID tags also tend to be more vulnerable to corruption, either intentionally from individuals overwriting or replacing the stored identifier, as well as inadvertently through damage or the like, which causes the KFID tag to fail.

However, it will be appreciated that as RFID tags are already in use in a number of environments, the use of RFID tags instead of symbols can be advantageous in some circumstances. Appendix A

A number of further uses of the system will now be described.

Media Download

For example, it is possible to use the process to order music, or other media, for download from the base station 1. In one example, when a user is in a shop or the like and they hear a song of interest, the user can scan a symbol provided at a suitable location in a shop which corresponds to a music download symbol. The end station 3 will transfer an indication of the symbol to the base station 1 and the base station 1 will determine from the₍ service specification that the symbol corresponds to the music download action.

The user may then be presented with a number of options, such as a list of songs available for download, or such as the option of downloading the currently playing song.

Once processing of the user's request has been performed and account details checked to ensure that payment can be obtained, the base station 1 can transfer a notification to the supplier that can then download the song to a predetermined location, such as to the end station 3 which has made the request.

A user that possesses audio/visual media output devices (such as home stereo speakers, car speakers, printers, TV screens etc) and an internet-enabled computing device, is able, with suitable software, to make an 'inventory' of these personal devices and link them to the system. If the user has previously such an inventory of suitable output devices, the system will produce a list of those that are potentially suitable for outputting of the selected file, as an appropriate service option.

In this regard, the user may register a number of different devices with the base station 1, allowing the downloaded digital media to be downloaded to a specific device. Thus, for example, the user may register different devices, allowing the user to select an appropriate device as a respective service option. Thus, for example, the user may choose to have music downloaded to a home stereo system, or alternatively to a portable music player, car stereo, or the like. The user may also register default devices associated with different types of media, such that the device is automatically selected depending on the media being supplied.

The user can then select one or more of the listed outlets for digital transferral of the media from the internet address to the user's personal device/s across an available and suitable protocol (eg WAP, IP, 801.22, Bluetooth) for immediate or later access (ie running, viewing, playing or whatever). The file is transferred according to the user's choices, and saved and/or played on the media outlet of choice as appropriate. In this regard, the user may select multiple output devices, or multiple tracks, in which case the system can be adapted to provide discount for bulk downloads.

A supplier who desires to make their material accessible to users of this system may publish in any common media (print, newspaper, leaflets, fliers etc) the URL of any files they wish to make accessible, or preferably insert a machine-readable symbol (such as a barcode, internet symbol or font) into the published media in a format which can be accessed (eg scanned) by the user with a portable device and decodes to the same internet URL. The software component of the system determines whether such internet links are audio, visual or other media links

Thus, for example, music suppliers can print an advert in a newspaper or the like relating to a new CD. The advert is printed with an associated symbol, which corresponds to a physical hyperlink that is at the bottom of the article. The user scans the symbol with the end station 3, which transfers symbol data to the base station 1, which in turn determines the appropriate internet URL and that an audio file is part of the link.

The base station 1 determines the identity of the user from the scanning device or end station identifier, and uses this to access user details including a number of playback options. The options are provided to the user, allowing the user to select a means for playback, which could include for example a home stereo. This initiates the transfer of the audio file in a suitable format, such as MP3, WMA, or the like, via an internet protocol to their home stereo speakers, where it loads and starts playing.

Having listened to the music, or part thereof as a demo, the user can be presented with another service option allowing the user to purchase, all, or select parts of the music.

It will be appreciated from this that the symbols may be provided in any location, and can be dynamically linked to songs of interest, for example by having the supplier provide a songlist, which is associated with the specification stored in the database 11.

In this case, for example, when a user is in a shop, the user can scan a symbol provided in the shop to purchase music played on an in-store system.

In a shopping environment the system could also be used to allow users to be presented with offers, or rewards schemes, so that the user receives reward points every time the user registers with the system in store. This can then allow advertising and offers to be directed to the user, effectively as service options, in part of a shopping service.

Information Provision

The system can be used to provide information to users, by having the information defined in an appropriate service specification. Thus, for example, if a museum wishes to provide information regarding certain exhibits, the museum can define a specification including information describing the exhibit. An associated symbol will then be generated, and this can be placed in a convenient location adjacent the exhibit, or in an associated guide pamphlet.

When a user wishes to access the information, the user can scan the symbol causing the information to be presented in a suitable manner, depending on the format of the information. Thus for example if the information is in the form of an audible presentation, the information can be downloaded to a suitable media player, such as a Bluetooth headset, the communications device itself, or the like. It will be appreciated that this may be achieved in a manner similar to that described above with respect to music or other media downloads.

It will also be appreciated that the information presented is based on the specification, and could therefore be achieved by having the specification cross reference a further resource such as a database, which will in turn allow the information presented to be modified as required. Thus for example, the information could be a weather report, in which case the specification would refer to a resource that includes details of the weather forecast in a suitable format for the user.

Product Dispensing

The system can be used to allow purchasing of products dispensed from vending or other machines, such as petrol pumps. In this case, a symbol can be provided indicative of the product to be purchased. The user can then scan the symbol, which in turn causes the base station 1 to trigger dispensing of the product and debiting of the user's account in accordance with the defined specification.

Alternatively, selections, such as the type of drink to be dispensed from a vending machine can be controlled using appropriate service response options.

In one example, performance of the service can be achieved by supplying the user with a receipt number. Once received via their communications device, the user can provide the receipt number to the vending machine, which is responsive to the receipt number to dispense the respective product. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that in this instance this could be achieved by having the base station 1 transfer the receipt number to the user and the vending machine simultaneously, allowing the vending machine to compare the receipt number entered by the user and the one generated by the base station 1, with the product being dispensed in response to a successful comparison.

Alternatively, the receipt number can be generated using a predetermined algorithm also stored in the vending machine. In this instance, the vending machine can use the entered receipt number to determine the product which has been paid for, and use this to supply the product. This removes the need for cash based vending machines, allowing the owner of the machine to collect monies much faster and not worry about vandalism, as well as receive information as to what items are selling fast etc and need to be replenished.

Booking System In this example, a symbol can be associated with one or more related events, or a resource, such as a conference room. Users then would simply scan the symbol at the location, allowing the base station 1 to identify the event or resource to be booked. The user can then enter a booking time as an appropriate service option, allowing the base station 1 to schedule a booking.

Thus, for example, service providers such as doctors or the like could provide a symbol associated with an advert in the yellow pages. In use, when a patient wishes to make a booking, the patient scans the symbol and is provided with available appointments as selectable service options.

The system then registers that patient as having the booking for that time. A notification of this booking is then registered on both the patient's end station 3, and also sent via the system to the surgery's online booking calendar.

Alternatively, or additionally, respective symbols may be provided for respective time slots.

This system can also be implemented in person, for example by having the patients provide the scanning device which is associated with them to a member of staff at the organisation where the booking is made.

If the patient later decides they wish to change the booking, they access the surgery's booking system via their Mobile or online. If a convenient time is free they change the time, the system is updated and the previously booked time is released to the system.

In some instances, if they change the time too late without checking personally with the surgery the patient may be liable for a late fee. The system shall have the capacity to alert the existence of this policy to the user, if the surgery chooses to so institute it, and charge the fee to the user using the user account.

Time Sheets

In this example, the scanning facility is used to complete time-sheets. In this case, specifications are defined relating to various operations associated with the time sheet, and then printed on the time sheet to allow a user to interact therewith.

For instance by scanning a barcode when commencing and completing work, this would link to a database and register a timestamp, allowing for instance the "accounts" software to access the information about a worker's hours immediately and effortlessly calculate the payment owing etc. This would also be very useful in legal and accounting practices where clients are billed for time. A symbol/barcode could be allocated to each client, and the lawyer/clerk would have a scanner to scan start and end of each period of work on behalf of that client. Again a database would record the timestamp, allowing accounts software to generate an appropriate invoice, and so actually letting clients see when the work was done.

Thus, by having the base station 1 allocate a time stamp based on the time at which the symbol was scanned, this avoids the need for the user to consider the time spent on work. This can also be used for example to allow time recordal for workers. In this case, the workers would scan a symbol on commencing and finishing work, allowing the number of working hours to be automatically recorded.

On Demand Ordering

The system can be used to assist in a local environment for providing on-demand purchase of goods or services, such as in cafes or the like. In this case, the menu items may be provided with a barcode/symbol next to them each. A customer if they wanted to avoid having to wait for a waiter, might simply scan the barcode uniquely identifying their table, then each item they wish to order in turn. They could even pay for it immediately using the user account.

Details of the order can then be provided to the cafe web intranet, and forwarded to the kitchen where the staff would have a screen - so listing in real time the orders received by the waiters/front desk, as well as by individual customers placing their own orders. Waiting staff could streamline their job by themselves employing portable internet enabled devices with scanners, and using the same process if they come to a table i.e. scanning a code for the particular table, then for each item the customers order.

Another type of ordering would be from catalogues, newspapers etc where items have a symbol that can be scanned to open a site where items can be selected for purchase directly using the mobile device.

This is also useful in warehouse type environments, or large stores such as IKEA, where customers at present must pick up a piece of paper and pencil, located throughout the store, and write down the details of each item they would like to purchase. In this case, the customer can scan the barcode for each item in the store, and enter an intranet which will offer the opportunity to place these in a shopping cart. When they complete their shopping, the order will be passed directly to the storehouse and staff will begin to collect it.

Using the mobile it would even be possible to pay without waiting to queue, using the user account or other payment options. This saves paper, reduces mess and waste, reduces waiting time in queues, reduces number of staff needed at checkouts, and speeds pickup time. Yet another type of ordering concerns placing bets at the TAB or similar. For example, in this case, forms providing race details could include symbols associated with each race, or each horse, allowing users to scan the symbol and place a bet. In this case, when the punter scans the symbol next to the horse in the particular race they are interested in, they would then be directed, for example, through the intranet of the TAB or whoever to select amounts and various options for the bet. They could pay directly via their mobile, or present to the counter where they would scan a special code at the register which concludes their selection, sends it to the register, and the assistant receives the money from them directly. Alternatively, it is envisaged that arrangements could be made so that for registered customers, bets could be placed away from the TAB, simply using the Form Guide, which would include for example a barcode for each horse and each race.

It will be appreciated that the on-demand ordering application can extend to purchasing items at a point- of-sale, for example in small-business and market-place scenarios. In this instance, users can purchase items directly using their mobile phone to scan a barcode or other symbol at the stall. This links the user to the stall owner's m-commerce site. Following this the user can enter the amount of the selected items being purchased at the stall, receiving a receipt number which the stall owner confirms and hands over the goods.

This enables micro-businesses to access point of sale benefits without the need of negotiating with banks etc, who may not offer electronic transactions services. Additionally, this mechanism removes the need for the business to maintain an electronic point of sale system as the entire transaction is performed centrally by the base station 1. This is also useful in environments where the ability to implement existing transaction systems is limited, for example, where land based phone lines required for credit card terminals, or the like, do not exist.

Transport Services

In this case, symbols associated with respective transport providers such as taxis can be provided in convenient locations, such as in pubs and clubs, at taxi ranks, or on a posted advert, or the like. The user can scan the symbol and arrange collection, either at a specified time or location using appropriate service options. It will be appreciated that the symbols may be unique to the transport company, and/or unique to specific locations, allowing taxis or the like to be automatically directed to the relevant location.

Any required booking fee, and the subsequent cab charge can be debited from the user account using the techniques described above. In addition to this, the user's scanning device identifier or a receipt may be used to confirm that the correct user obtains the transport services. Event/Seminar Registration

It is possible for the user to use the symbol based system to register an end station 3, such as a communications device or mobile phone for use at events. For example, if attending a conference, the user can scan a symbol provided with conference literature, thereby causing the identifier associated with the device to be transferred to the base station 1 and hence the conference organisers.

This can be used for a number of purposes. For example, this can be used to provide conference information directly to the attendee via the communications device. This can include for example, providing accesses to an event website, or alerting the user to a specific event, such as when sessions are about to begin, when lunch is served, or when a specific attendee arrives and performs the same registration process.

Having registered, this allows the user to use the communications device to interact with the conference in a number of ways.

For example, if the user wishes to ask a question during an event, the user can scan a symbol in the event literature indicating that a question is to be asked. The communications device identifier is used to identify the individual, who can then be requested to ask the question at an appropriate time. In this case, this can be achieved by sending an alert to the communications device, and allowing the user to speak into the communications device, which then relays the verbal question via an appropriate announcement system. This allows the user to use their communications device as a microphone, avoiding the need for a large number of specialist microphones to be provided, or the need for microphones to be transferred to the individuals asking questions.

In addition to this, it also has the benefit of allowing users to ask questions when they are not actually in the same location as the seminar, for example if the user has subsequently had to leave the room.

Contests

Symbols can be used to represent contest entries, such as raffle tickets. In this case, each time the symbol is scanned the user can be issued with a contest entry, such as a raffle ticket, with an appropriate fee being deducted from their account if required.

In the event that the contest requires a question to be answered, the answer can be provided as an appropriate service option.

If the user wins the contest, an indication of this can be transferred to the user via the communications device using the unique identifier determined when the symbol is scanned.

This can be used to avoid the need for paper based contest systems, such as raffle tickets, and removes the inefficiency and relative insecurity of money collection at such contests. Others

It will be appreciated that a wide range of other systems in which information is presented to a user, or in which services or goods are purchased can also be implemented.

The system can be used to make donations, via the user account, by having the user select a symbol representing a donation option.

Another example, by providing symbols on board games, allows interactive board games to be played. This can be performed in accordance with predefined specifications or in a random manner the system assigns them something to do: Eg: answering a question, performing some action, moving so many spaces etc. (The board could even be "generic" and the "game" could change depending upon the competition that day.)

Claims

THE CLA]MS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS: 1) A method of obtaining a service, the method including: a) sensing a symbol using a reading device; b) in a processing system: i) transferring symbol data representing the sensed symbol to a base station, the base station being responsive to the symbol data to determine a respective service specification, the base station transferring an indication of a service associated with the service specification to the processing system; ii) presenting details of the service to a user; iii) determining if the service is to be performed; and, iv) in response to a successful determination, transferring confirmation data to the base station, the base station being responsive to the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed. 2) A method according to claim 1, wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving option data from the base station, the option data being indicative of a number of service options; b) presenting an indication of the options to the user using the option data; c) determining the service option to be performed; and, d) transferring the selection data to the base station, the base station being responsive to the selection data to determine a respective service option, the service being performed in accordance with the selected service option. 3) A method according to claim 2, wherein the method includes selecting a plurality of options. 4) A method according to claim 1, wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving transaction data representing a transaction associated with the service to be performed; b) presenting an indication of the transaction to the user using the transaction data; c) determining if the service is to be performed; and, d) in response to a positive determination, transferring confirmation data to the base station. 5) A method according to claim 1, wherein the method includes, in the processing system, transferring an identifier to the base station with the symbol data, the base station being responsive to the identifier to determine an identity of at least one of: a) the processing system; and, b) the user. 6) A method according to claim 5, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) determining user data using the identifier; and, b) performing the service using information contained in the user data. 7) A method according to claim 1, wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving account status data representing the status of the user's account; and, b) presenting an indication of the account status to the user using the account status data; c) determining if the account is to be replenished; and, d) in response to a positive determination, transferring account data to the base station, the base station being responsive to the account data to replenish the account in a predetermined manner. 8) A method according to claim 1, wherein the method includes, in the base station, updating a database using the confirmation data to thereby cause the service to be performed. 9) A method according to claim 1, wherein the service includes at least one of: a) obtaining parking facilities; b) purchasing goods; c) booking an event; d) updating a time sheet; e) entering a contest; f) providing transportation; g) using the processing system for a predetermined action; h) obtaining information; i) obtaining multimedia; and, j) obtaining content. 10) A method according to claim 1, wherein the service includes obtaining vehicle parking services, and wherein the method includes scanning a symbol representing a parking space to thereby obtain parking services. 11) A method according to claim 10, wherein the symbol represents a cluster of parking bays, and wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) determining a bay of the cluster of bays; and, b) transferring an indication of the bay to the base station, the base station being responsive to the bay indication to provide parking for the respective bay. 12) A method according to claim 10, wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) determining a duration; and, b) transferring an indication of the duration to the base station, the base station being responsive to the duration indication to provide parking for the respective duration. 13) A method according to claim 1, wherein the service includes providing content, and wherein the method includes: a) scanning a symbol representing content to be provided; and, b) receiving the content. 14) A method according to claim 13, wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving the content; and, b) presenting the content to the user. 15) A method according to claim 13, wherein the content is provided in accordance with one or more service options, the service options including at least one of: a) a format of the content; b) a location to which the content is provided; c) a content type. 16) A method according to claim 1, wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving a receipt number; and, b) presenting the receipt number to a user, thereby allowing the user to present the receipt number to obtain a service. 17) A method according to claim 16, wherein the service includes obtaining products from a third party, and wherein the method includes providing an indication of the receipt number to the third party. 18) A method according to claim 17, wherein the third party is at least one of: a) an individual; b) a commercial business entity; and, c) a vending machine. 19) A method according to claim 17, wherein the method includes, in the base station, a) debiting a user account; b) generating the receipt number in response to the debiting of the user account; and, c) transferring the receipt number to at least one of: i) the user; and, ii) the third party. 20) A method according to claim 9, wherein the symbol represents goods to be purchased, and wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) determining attributes of the goods to be purchased; and, b) transferring an indication of the attributes to the base station, the base station being responsive to the attributes to cause the goods to be provided. 2I) A method of obtaining a service, the method including: a) sensing a symbol using a reading device; b) in a processing system: i) transferring to a base station: (1) symbol data representing the sensed symbol; and, (2) an identifier, the base station being responsive to the symbol data and the identifier to: (a) determine a respective service specification; and, (b) transfer content to the processing system in accordance with the service specification and the identifier. 22) A method according to claim 21, wherein the method includes a method according to claim 1. 23) A method of performing a service, the method including, in a base station: a) receiving, from a processing system, symbol data representing a symbol sensed by a reading device; b) using the symbol data to determine a respective service specification; c) causing the processing system to present an indication of the service to a user; d) receiving confirmation data from the processing system; and, e) using the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed. 24) A method according to claim 23, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving an identifier from the processing system; and, b) using the identifier to determine an identity of at least one of: i) the processing system; and, ii) the user. 25) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) determining a user access level using the identifier; b) determining a service access level using the service specification; c) comparing the user access level to the service access level; and, d) providing the service in response to a successful comparison. 26) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station, transferring data to the processing system using the identifier. 27) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station, determining account status data using the identifier. 28) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station, determining user data in accordance with the identifier. 29) A method according to claim 28, wherein the method includes transferring data to the processing system using the identifier. 30) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) determining option data from the service specification; b) transferring the option data to the processing system, the processing system being adapted to present an indication of the options to the user and determine a selected service option; c) receiving selection data; and, d) using the selection data to perform the service in accordance with the selected service option. 3I) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) determining transaction data from the service specification; b) transferring the transaction data to the processing system, the processing system being adapted to present an indication of the transaction to the user and determine if the transaction is to be performed; c) receiving confirmation data; and, d) using the confirmation data to perform the service. 32) A method according to claim 31, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) determining an account associated with the user; b) determining if sufficient funds exist in the account to perform the service; c) in response to a successful determination, debiting the account of the user, and causing the service to be performed. 33) A method according to claim 32, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) determining account status data; b) transferring the account status data to the processing system, the processing system being adapted to present an indication of the account status to the user and determine if the transaction is to be replenished; c) receiving account data; and, d) using the account data to replenish the account in a predetermined manner. 34) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station, updating a database using the confirmation data to thereby cause the service to be performed. 35) A method according to claim 24, wherein the service includes at least one of: a) obtaining parking facilities; b) purchasing goods; c) booking an event; d) updating a time sheet; e) entering a contest; f) providing transportation; g) using the processing system for a predetermined action; h) obtaining information; i) obtaining multimedia; and, j) obtaining content. 36) A method according to claim 24, wherein the service includes obtaining vehicle parking services, and wherein the method includes scanning a symbol representing a parking space to thereby obtain parking services. 37) A method according to claim 36, wherein the symbol represents a cluster of parking bays, and wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving an indication of a selected bay from the processing system; and, b) providing parking for the respective bay. 38) A method according to claim 36, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving an indication of a selected duration; b) providing a parking for the respective duration. 39) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving the service specification from a supplier; b) generating a symbol associated with service specification; and, c) transferring the symbol to the supplier. 40) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) determining a service implementation method from the service specification; and, b) using the service implementation method to perform the service. 41) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method of performing the service includes at least one of: a) modifying service data in a data store; and, b) transferring an indication of the service to be performed to a supplier processing system, the supplier processing system being responsive to the indication to perform the service. 42) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving request data indicative of a request; b) determining a service status using the request data and the service data; and, c) providing an indication of the service status. 43) A method according to claim 41, wherein the method includes, in the base station transferring the service status to a processing system. 44) A method according to claim 24, wherein the service includes providing content, and wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) determining the content using at least one of: i) the symbol data; and, ii) at least one service option; and, b) transferring the content to at least one of: i) the processing system; and, ii) a device specified by the user. 45) A method according to claim 44, wherein the content is provided in accordance with one or more service options, the service options including at least one of: a) a format of the content; b) a location to which the content is provided; and, c) a content type. 46) A method according to claim 24, wherein the method includes, in the base station, a) debiting a user account; b) generating the receipt number in response to the debiting of the user account; and, c) transferring the receipt number to at least one of: i) the user; and, ii) the third party. 47) A method according to claim 46, wherein the service includes obtaining products from a third party, and wherein the method includes providing an indication of the receipt number to the third party. 48) A method according to claim 47, wherein the third party is at least one of: a) an individual; and, b) a vending machine. 49) A method according to claim 24, wherein the symbol represents goods to be purchased, and wherein the method includes, in the base station: a) receiving an indication of attributes of the goods to be purchased; and, b) cause the goods to be provided the goods in accordance with the attributes. 50) A method of performing a service, the method including, in a base station: a) receiving, from a processing system: i) symbol data representing a symbol sensed by a reading device; and, ii) an identifier; b) using the symbol data to determine a respective service specification; c) causing the processing system to present an indication of the service to a user; d) transferring content to the processing system in accordance with the service specification and the identifier. 51) A method according to claim 50, wherein the method includes a method according to claim 24. 52) A method of supplying a service, the method including, in a supplier processing system: a) determining a service specification, the service specification defining at least one of: i) one or more service options; ii) one or more transaction values; and, iii) a manner of implementing the one or more service options; b) determining a symbol associated with the service specification; and, c) providing the service using the symbol. 53) A method according to claim 52, wherein the method includes, in the supplier processing system: a) transferring the specification to a base station, the base station being responsive to the specification to generate the symbol; b) receiving the symbol from the base station. 54) A method according to claim 52, wherein the method includes, in the supplier processing system: a) receiving an indication of the service to be performed from the base station; and, b) performing the respective service. 55) A method according to any one of the claims 1 to 54, wherein the symbol is at least one of: a) a visible symbol; b) a 2D barcode; c) a digefont; and, d) a digepic. 56) A method according to any one of the claims 1 to 55, wherein the symbol is a visible symbol adapted to be sensed by an optical scanner. 57) Apparatus for obtaining a service, the apparatus including: a) a reading device for sensing a symbol; b) a processing system for: i) transferring symbol data representing the sensed symbol to a base station, the base station being responsive to the symbol data to determine a respective service specification, the base station transferring an indication of the service to be performed to the processing system; ii) presenting details of the service to the user; iii) determining the service is to be performed; and, iv) transferring to the base station confirmation data, the base station being responsive to the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed. 58) Apparatus according to claim 57, wherein the processing system forms part of at least one of: a) a mobile phone; b) a PDA; and, c) a computer. 59) Apparatus according to claim 57, wherein the scanning device includes a digital camera, laser scanner or other suitable device. 60) Apparatus according to claim 57, wherein the apparatus is adapted to perform the method of claim 1. 61) Apparatus for obtaining a service, the method including: a) a reading device for sensing a symbol; b) a processing system for: i) transferring to a base station:

(1) symbol data representing the sensed symbol; and,

(a) determine a respective service specification; and,

62) Apparatus according to claim 61, wherein the apparatus performs the method of claim 21. 63) Apparatus for performing a service, the apparatus including a base station for: a) receiving symbol data representing a symbol sensed by a reading device; b) using the symbol data to determine a respective service specification; c) causing the processing system to present an indication of the service to the user; d) receiving confirmation data from the processing system; and, e) using the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed.

64) Apparatus according to claim 63, wherein the base station performs the method of claim 24.

65) Apparatus for performing a service, the apparatus including a base station for: a) receiving, from a processing system: i) symbol data representing a symbol sensed by a reading device; and, ii) an identifier; b) using the symbol data to determine a respective service specification; c) causing the processing system to present an indication of the service to a user; d) transferring content to the processing system in accordance with the service specification and the identifier.

66) Apparatus according to claim 65, wherein the apparatus performs the method of claim 50.

67) Apparatus for supplying a service, the apparatus including a supplier processing system for: a) determining a service specification, the service specification defining at least one of: i) one or more service options; ii) one or more transaction values; and, iii) a manner of implementing the one or more service options; b) determining a symbol associated with the service specification; and, c) providing the service using the symbol.

68) Apparatus according to claim 37, wherein the base station performs the method of claim 26. 69) A method of facilitating user interaction with a processing system, the method including, in the processing system: a) determining user interaction data defining one or more user interactions; b) generating a user interaction element in accordance with the determined data; and, c) presenting the user interaction element to thereby allow the user to interact with the processing system.

70) A method according to claim 69, wherein the user interaction element includes at least one of: a) a character; b) a logo; and, c) a playable media. 71) A method according to claim 69, wherein the method includes, in the processing system: a) receiving the user interaction data; b) selecting a element definition file defining the user interaction element from a number of element definition files stored in a store using the received interaction data; and, c) generating the user interaction element using the element definition file and the user interaction data. 72) A method according to claim 71, wherein the user interaction element includes a character, and the method includes, in the processing system: a) generating a representation of the character using the element definition file; and, b) animating the character representation using the user interaction data.

73) A method according to claim 69, wherein the method including a method according to any one of the claims 1 to 22, wherein the user interaction data includes at least one of: a) confirmation data; b) transaction data; c) account status data; and, d) option data. 74) A method of obtaining a service, the method including: a) sensing a tag identifier stored in a tag using a reading device; b) in a processing system: i) transferring tag data representing the sensed tag identifier to a base station, the base station being responsive to the tag data to determine a respective service specification, the base station transferring an indication of a service associated with the service specification to the processing system; ii) presenting details of the service to a user; iii) determining if the service is to be performed; and, iv) in response to a successful determination, transferring confirmation data to the base station, the base station being responsive to the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed.

75) A method according to claim 74, wherein the method is performed in accordance with the method of any one of the claims 1 to 20, the tag being the symbol.

76) A method of performing a service, the method including, in a base station: a) receiving, from a processing system, tag data representing a tag identifier sensed from a tag by a reading device; b) using the tag data to determine a respective service specification; c) causing the processing system to present an indication of the service to a user; d) receiving confirmation data from the processing system; and, e) using the confirmation data to cause the respective service to be performed.