WO2018193466A1

WO2018193466A1 - A system and method for integrated online and offline shopping platform

Info

Publication number: WO2018193466A1
Application number: PCT/IN2018/050221
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rajeev MANCHANDA
Original assignee: Unishop Llp
Priority date: 2017-04-17
Filing date: 2018-04-17
Publication date: 2018-10-25

Abstract

The embodiments herein provide a system and a methods for enabling an integrated online and offline shopping platform. Currently, there are no solutions available to provide the combined benefits of online and offline shopping experiences. The platform enables a plurality of shopping options and processes for an integrated online and offline shopping products and services across a plurality of product types and geographical locations. The online portal virtually renders products comprised in a physical shop on a computing device and enables users to purchase the products. An integrated online shopping portal also enables shoppers to identify the availability and prices of products in a plurality of brick and mortar shops and online shopping portals. The system further comprises beacons placed at a plurality of locations to locate shoppers and provide them contextual shopping assistance.

Description

A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INTEGRATED ONLINE AND OFFLINE

SHOPPING PLATFORM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The embodiments herein claim the priority of the Indian Provisional Patent Application (PPA) with the serial number 201711009339 filed on March 17, 2017 with the title, "SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR INTEGRATED ONLINE AND OFFLINE SHOPPING PLATFORM", and subsequently postdated to April 17, 2017 and the contents of which are included entirely as reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments herein is generally related to a shopping platform. The embodiments herein is particularly related to a system for enabling an integrated shopping platform. The embodiments herein is more particularly related to a system and a plurality of methods for enabling an integrated online and offline shopping platform.

Description of the Related Art

[0003] Online shopping and e-commerce are increasingly becoming major rivals to brick and mortar shops. Although big shopping malls and supermarkets continue to thrive, online shopping effectively does away with the drawbacks of physical shopping, such as commuting to a shopping place, waiting in long queues, physically carrying the shopped items etc.

[0004] However, current online shopping solutions are not enabled to completely replace brick and mortar shops. Shoppers still prefer to have an actual look and feel of certain items they purchase. For example, while purchasing certain personal use products such as clothes or shoes, shoppers prefer on physically trying the products before purchasing. Since online solutions are not enabled to provide the advantages of brick and mortar shops, a major share of market still lies with physical shops. There are no solutions available today that provide the combined benefits of online and offline shopping experiences.

[0005] Hence, there is a need for an integrated platform for shopping that offers the advantages of online and offline shopping. There is also a need for a plurality of methods to enable a plurality of shopping options and processes involved in an integrated online and offline shopping platform.

[0006] The above-mentioned shortcomings, disadvantages and problems are addressed herein and which will be understood by reading and studying the following specification.

OBJECTIVES OF THE EMBODIMENTS HEREIN

[0007] The primary object of the embodiments herein is to provide a system for enabling an integrated shopping platform.

[0008] Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a system and a plurality of methods for enabling an integrated online and offline shopping platform.

[0009] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an integrated shopping platform for enabling online and offline shopping across a plurality of product types, brands, and geographical locations.

[0010] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an online portal that virtually renders products comprised in a physical shop on a computing device and enables users to purchase the products.

[0011] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an integrated shopping portal that enables a shopper to purchase products from a physical store and enable the payment for the purchase through a mobile computing device.

[0012] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an integrated shopping portal that enables a shopper to purchase products from a physical store and enable the products purchased to be picked-up, delivered from that store or picked-up or delivered from/to a different geographical location.

[0013] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an integrated shopping portal that enables a shopper to purchase products from a physical store and avail discount on the purchase based on the geographical location and/or the type of products.

[0014] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a digital application that runs on a computing device and enables a user to access the integrated online and offline shopping platform.

[0015] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an integrated shopping portal that enables a shopper to identify the availability and prices of a product in a plurality of brick and mortar shops and online shopping portals.

[0016] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to detect geographical location of the user and send promotional offers to the user for the items available in one or more brick and motor shops present in the vicinity of the user location.

[0017] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a product display unit configured for displaying a plurality of products and their details to the customers for purchase.

[0018] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to offer differential pricing of the same product based on the loyalty of the user with the system.

[0019] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an integrated platform for online and offline shopping that offers paper less billing facility.

[0020] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an integrated platform for online and offline shopping that enables the user to pick some of the products from the order and get other products delivered as per user convenience. [0021] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an integrated platform for online and offline shopping that facilitates the one or more family/group members to use a single shopping cart and check out process.

[0022] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an integrated platform for online and offline shopping that supports one click shopping or express pay facility.

[0023] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to provide an integrated platform for online and offline shopping that identifies the user buying pattern to suggest better product suggestions and promotions based on the data collected and analytics.

[0024] These and other objects and advantages of the embodiments herein will become readily apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY

[0025] The various embodiments herein provide a system for providing integrated online and offline shopping platform. The system comprises a mobile application downloadable on a computing device of a user. The mobile application is configured for enabling the user to access the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops associated with the system. The system also comprises a server communicatively coupled with the computing device of the user. The server is configured for enabling the user to shop a plurality of products from the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops using the mobile application. The server comprises a location detection module configured for detecting the real time geo location of the user and identifying one or more offline/brick and mortar shops present in the vicinity of the user location in real time. The server also comprises an availability module configured for identifying the availability and prices of a user specified product in the online shopping portals and identified offline/brick and mortar shops present in the vicinity of the user. The availability module is further configured for presenting the identified products available from one or more merchants/vendors to the user and for enabling the user to compare the products. The system further comprises a recommendation module configured for recommending one or more products to the user based on a plurality of factors. The plurality of factors comprise location of the user, buying history of the user and shopping pattern of the user. The server still further comprises a payment processing configured for enabling the user to make payment for the products purchased through the mobile application using one or more payment options provided by the system. The server still further comprises a product delivery module configured for enabling the user to specify one or more delivery locations for the plurality products purchased. The product delivery module is further configured for enabling the products purchased from one or more offline stores to be delivered or picked-up from one or more geographical locations as per user convenience.

[0026] According to one embodiment herein, the server further comprises a data analysis module configured for analyzing a plurality of user data to understand business processes and user behavior. The plurality of user data comprises purchase type, personal information, feedback and sentiments, frequency of spending, merchandising data and other user centric data such as demography and loyalty points.

[0027] According to one embodiment herein, the system further comprises a product display unit communicatively coupled with the server. One or more product display units are placed within the offline stores associated with the system or at one or more geographical locations that are expected to have maximum user/customer footfall. Each product display unit is configured for displaying images/pictures of a plurality of products from a particular store or from the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops on a digital display along with a barcode corresponding to each product. The user is enabled to shop/purchase one or more products by scanning the bar code adjacent to each product.

[0028] According to one embodiment herein, the server further comprises a messaging module configured for sending one or more messages to the users and the vendors associated with the system. The one or more messages are related to the loyalty program offered by the system, product recommendations, product availability, and promotional offers/discount availability.

[0029] According to one embodiment herein, the server further comprises a security module configured for providing security/privacy of the user data and transactions while conforming to multiple security standards and norms.

[0030] According to one embodiment herein, the server further comprises a promotional offers/discount module configured for identifying one or more promotional offers/discounts provided by the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops and for presenting the identified promotional offers/discounts to the user in real time.

[0031] According to one embodiment herein, a method for providing integrated online and offline shopping platform is provided. The method comprises the steps of registering a user with the system by downloading a mobile application provided by the system on the computing device of the user. The user registers with the system by providing one or more personal details. The user launches the mobile application to see a catalogue of plurality of products available in online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops. The method also comprises recommending a plurality of products to the user based on user location and purchase history. The user location is detected using the computing device of the user. The user is enabled to add one or more selected products to a shopping cart and make payments for the selected products using one or more payment options provided by the system. The method further comprises enabling the user to select one or more delivery locations for the plurality products purchased and enabling the products purchased from one or more offline stores to be delivered or picked-up from one or more geographical locations as per user convenience.

[0032] According to one embodiment herein, the method further comprises analyzing a plurality of user data to understand business processes and user behavior. The plurality of user data comprises purchase type, personal information, feedback and sentiments, frequency of spending, merchandising data and other user centric data such as demography and loyalty points.

[0033] According to one embodiment herein, the method further comprises placing one or more product display units within the offline stores associated with the system or at one or more geographical locations that are expected to have maximum user/customer footfall.

[0034] According to one embodiment herein, the method further comprises displaying images/pictures of a plurality of products from a particular store or from the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops on a digital display of the one or more product display units along with a barcode corresponding to each product. The user is enabled to shop/purchase one or more products by scanning the bar code adjacent to each product.

[0035] The various embodiments herein provide a system for enabling an integrated shopping platform. The various embodiments herein also provide a system and a plurality of methods for enabling an integrated online and offline shopping platform.

[0036] According to one embodiment herein, a system and a plurality of methods for enabling an integrated online and offline shopping platform is provided. The system enables integrated online and offline shopping across a plurality of product types and geographical locations. The embodiments herein also provides an online portal that virtually renders products comprised in a physical shop on a computing device and enables users to purchase the products.

[0037] According to one embodiment herein, a system for an integrated shopping portal is provided. The system enables a shopper to purchase products from a physical store and enables the payment for the purchase through a mobile computing device. The system enables a shopper to purchase products from a physical store and enable the products purchased to be delivered or picked-up from a different geographical location. The system enables a shopper to purchase products from a physical store and avail discount on the purchase based on the geographical location and/or the type of products.

[0038] According to one embodiment herein, a system that enables a shopper shopping in a plurality of shops to create a single unique identification code for a unified delivery of the items shopped in different shops.

[0039] According to one embodiment herein, a digital application that runs on a computing device is provided. The application enables a user to access the integrated online and offline shopping platform. The application also enables a shopper to identify the availability and prices of a product in a plurality of brick and mortar shops and online shopping portals.

[0040] According to one embodiment herein, a location based shopping assistance system is provided. The location of a shopper is identified through a mobile computing device the shopper carries. Information about the availability of products and shops in the proximity of the user are suggested to the user through the mobile computing device. The system also enables product owners and shopkeepers to provide prospective shoppers with real-time information about sales and product promotions available at the location where a shopper is present. The system also comprises beacons placed at a plurality of locations to locate potential shoppers in the proximity of the shop by identifying a registered computing device the shopper carries.

[0041] According to one embodiment herein, a method for integrated shopping in a brick and mortar shop is provided. The method comprises scanning the items a customer intends to purchase through sensors in a mobile handheld computing device. When the customer completes the shopping, the payment for the purchased items is enabled through online transaction. Alternatively, the customer is also enabled to use a card or cash at the counter of the shop. The purchase is provided with a unique identification code, and when the customer opts for home delivery of the purchased items, the purchased items are grouped under the unique identification code and delivered to the address provided by the customer.

[0042] According to one embodiment herein, architecture for a system enabling an integrated online and offline shopping is provided. The system comprises a handheld computing device, an availability module, a messaging module, a virtual private cloud storage, a security module, a point of sale virtual private cloud subnet and a data center.

[0043] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating the preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of an illustration and not of a limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] The other objects, features and advantages will occur to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings in which: [0045] FIG. 1 illustrates block diagram of a system for enabling an integrated online and offline shopping, according to one embodiment herein.

[0046] FIG. 2 illustrates a functional block diagram of a system for integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein.

[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic block diagram indicating the implementation details of the system for high availability, according to one embodiment herein.

[0048] FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of the messaging module in a system for integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein.

[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates a functional block diagram of a system for integrated online and offline shopping platform indicating an overall functioning/operation of the system, according to one embodiment herein.

[0050] FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart indicating the types of data analytics performed in the system for integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein.

[0051] FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart explaining a method for first time user registration and shopping with the system for integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein.

[0052] FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart explaining a method for checkout using the system for integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein.

[0053] FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart explaining a method for re-order and partial reorder of a product using the system for integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein.

[0054] FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart explaining a method for shopping using the integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein. [0055] FIG. 11 illustrates a flowchart explaining a method for adding items to a single cart by different members of a family in a system for integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein.

[0056] FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart explaining a method for multi-store shopping using the system for integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein.

[0057] FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart explaining a method for scanning the items in the offline store using a system for integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein.

[0058] FIG. 14 illustrates a flowchart explaining overall process for shopping using the integrated offline and online shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein.

[0059] Although the specific features of the embodiments herein are shown in some drawings and not in others. This is done for convenience only as each feature may be combined with any or all of the other features in accordance with the embodiments herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS HEREIN

[0060] In the following detailed description, a reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which the specific embodiments that may be practiced is shown by way of illustration. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments and it is to be understood that other changes may be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0061] The various embodiments herein provide a system for providing integrated online and offline shopping platform. The system comprises a mobile application downloadable on a computing device of a user. The mobile application is configured for enabling the user to access the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops associated with the system. The system also comprises a server communicatively coupled with the computing device of the user. The server is configured for enabling the user to shop a plurality of products from the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops using the mobile application. The server comprises a location detection module configured for detecting the real time geo location of the user and identifying one or more offline/brick and mortar shops present in the vicinity of the user location in real time. The server also comprises an availability module configured for identifying the availability and prices of a user specified product in the online shopping portals and identified offline/brick and mortar shops present in the vicinity of the user. The availability module is further configured for presenting the identified products available from one or more merchants/vendors to the user and for enabling the user to compare the products. The system further comprises a recommendation module configured for recommending one or more products to the user based on a plurality of factors. The plurality of factors comprise location of the user, buying history of the user and shopping pattern of the user. The server still further comprises a payment processing configured for enabling the user to make payment for the products purchased through the mobile application using one or more payment options provided by the system. The server still further comprises a product delivery module configured for enabling the user to specify one or more delivery locations for the plurality products purchased. The product delivery module is further configured for enabling the products purchased from one or more offline stores to be delivered or picked-up from one or more geographical locations as per user convenience.

[0062] According to one embodiment herein, the server further comprises a data analysis module configured for analyzing a plurality of user data to understand business processes and user behavior. The plurality of user data comprises purchase type, personal information, feedback and sentiments, frequency of spending, merchandising data and other user centric data such as demography and loyalty points.

[0063] According to one embodiment herein, the system further comprises a product display unit communicatively coupled with the server. One or more product display units are placed within the offline stores associated with the system or at one or more geographical locations that are expected to have maximum user/customer footfall. Each product display unit is configured for displaying images/pictures of a plurality of products from a particular store or from the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops on a digital display along with a barcode corresponding to each product. The user is enabled to shop/purchase one or more products by scanning the bar code adjacent to each product.

[0064] According to one embodiment herein, the server further comprises a messaging module configured for sending one or more messages to the users and the vendors associated with the system. The one or more messages are related to the loyalty program offered by the system, product recommendations, product availability, and promotional offers/discount availability.

[0065] According to one embodiment herein, the server further comprises a security module configured for providing security/privacy of the user data and transactions while conforming to multiple security standards and norms.

[0066] According to one embodiment herein, the server further comprises a promotional offers/discount module configured for identifying one or more promotional offers/discounts provided by the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops and for presenting the identified promotional offers/discounts to the user in real time. [0067] According to one embodiment herein, a method for providing integrated online and offline shopping platform is provided. The method comprises the steps of registering a user with the system by downloading a mobile application provided by the system on the computing device of the user. The user registers with the system by providing one or more personal details. The user launches the mobile application to see a catalogue of plurality of products available in online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops. The method also comprises recommending a plurality of products to the user based on user location and purchase history. The user location is detected using the computing device of the user. The user is enabled to add one or more selected products to a shopping cart and make payments for the selected products using one or more payment options provided by the system. The method further comprises enabling the user to select one or more delivery locations for the plurality products purchased and enabling the products purchased from one or more offline stores to be delivered or picked-up from one or more geographical locations as per user convenience.

[0068] According to one embodiment herein, the method further comprises analyzing a plurality of user data to understand business processes and user behavior. The plurality of user data comprises purchase type, personal information, KYC, feedback and sentiments, frequency of spending, merchandising data and other user centric data such as demography and loyalty points.

[0069] According to one embodiment herein, the method further comprises placing one or more product display units within the offline stores associated with the system or at one or more geographical locations that are expected to have maximum user/customer footfall. [0070] According to one embodiment herein, the method further comprises displaying images/pictures of a plurality of products from a particular store or from the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops on a digital display of the one or more product display units along with a barcode corresponding to each product. The user is enabled to shop/purchase one or more products by scanning the bar code or QR code adjacent to each product.

[0071] The various embodiments herein provide a system for enabling an integrated shopping platform. The various embodiments herein also provide a system and a plurality of methods for enabling an integrated online and offline shopping platform.

[0072] According to one embodiment herein, a system and a plurality of methods for enabling an integrated online and offline shopping platform is provided. The system enables integrated online and offline shopping across a plurality of product types and geographical locations. The embodiments herein also provides an online portal that virtually renders products comprised in a physical shop on a computing device and enables users to purchase the products.

[0073] According to one embodiment herein, a system for an integrated shopping portal is provided. The system enables a shopper to purchase products from a physical store and enables the payment for the purchase through a mobile computing device. The system enables a shopper to purchase products from a physical store and enable the products purchased to be delivered or picked-up from a different geographical location. The system enables a shopper to purchase products from a physical store and avail discount on the purchase based on the geographical location and/or the type of products.

[0074] According to one embodiment herein, a system that enables a shopper shopping in a plurality of shops to create a single unique identification code for a unified delivery of the items shopped in different shops. [0075] According to one embodiment herein, a digital application that runs on a computing device is provided. The application enables a user to access the integrated online and offline shopping platform. The application also enables a shopper to identify the availability and prices of a product in a plurality of brick and mortar shops and online shopping portals.

[0076] According to one embodiment herein, a location based shopping assistance system is provided. The location of a shopper is identified through a mobile computing device the shopper carries. Information about the availability of products and shops in the proximity of the user are suggested to the user through the mobile computing device. The system also enables product owners and shopkeepers to provide prospective shoppers with real-time information about sales and product promotions available at the location where a shopper is present. The system also comprises beacons placed at a plurality of locations to locate potential shoppers in the proximity of the shop by identifying a registered computing device the shopper carries.

[0077] According to one embodiment herein, a method for integrated shopping in a brick and mortar shop is provided. The method comprises scanning the items a customer intends to purchase through sensors in a mobile handheld computing device. When the customer completes the shopping, the payment for the purchased items is enabled through online transaction. Alternatively, the customer is also enabled to use a card or cash at the counter of the shop. The purchase is provided with a unique identification code, and when the customer opts for home delivery of the purchased items, the purchased items are grouped under the unique identification code and delivered to the address provided by the customer. [0078] According to one embodiment herein, architecture for a system enabling an integrated online and offline shopping is provided. The system comprises a handheld computing device, an availability module, a messaging module, a virtual private cloud storage, a security module, a point of sale virtual private cloud subnet and a data centre.

[0079] FIG. 1 illustrates high level architecture for a system enabling an integrated online and offline shopping, according to one embodiment herein. FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a system for integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein. With respect to FIG. 2, the system comprises a mobile application downloadable on a computing device 202 of a user. The mobile application is configured for enabling the user to access the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops associated with the system. The user registers with the system by providing one or more personal details after downloading the mobile application.

[0080] According to one embodiment herein, a mobile application is also provided for the vendors/merchants that are associated with system for real time updating of product catalogue of their respective store and for processing the purchase requests of the users. The merchants are allowed to present location based real time offers to the customers by using the mobile applications.

[0081] According to on embodiment herein, the merchant applications are run in parallel with the shopper applications. When a shopper completes the process of shopping, all information including the order code, order details etc are sent to the respective merchant through the merchant application and web based panel that can be opened on merchants POS/Computer. Merchant executes and controls all the transactions through these platforms.

[0082] According to one embodiment herein, the system further comprises the server 204 communicatively coupled with the computing device of the user. The server 204 is configured for enabling the user to shop a plurality of products from the plurality of online shopping portals 206 and offline/brick and mortar shops 208 using the mobile application. The server 204 further comprises a location detection module 210 configured for detecting the real time geo location of the user.

[0083] According to one embodiment herein, the server 204 further comprises the availability module 212 configured for identifying the availability and prices of a product in the online shopping portals 206 and offline/brick and mortar shops 208 present in the vicinity of the user geo location in real time. Further, the user is enabled to enter/specify a particular store name or a product name that he/she wishes to purchase. The specified store products or the selected product is displayed to the user for purchase. The availability of the product in from one or more merchants/vendors is also shown to the user. The user is also enabled to compare the products. The user can add the selected products that he/she wishes to purchase to a cart.

[0084] According to one embodiment herein, the server 204 further comprises the recommendation module 214 configured for recommending one or more products to the user based on a plurality of factors. The plurality of factors comprise location of the user, buying history of the user and shopping pattern of the user.

[0085] According to one embodiment herein, all the offline stores associated with the system are geo-tagged. Whenever the user/customer is at or around a location in the vicinity of these stores, the mobile application automatically identifies the location and selects the closest store (post interaction with server). While the customer is shopping (adding products to cart), the offers of that particular store are pushed as a pop-up/SMS/application notification in real time. The system further keeps refreshing customer location and changes default store accordingly. [0086] According to one embodiment herein, the server 204 further comprises the payment processing module 216 configured for enabling the user to make payment for the products purchased through the mobile application using one or more payment options provided by the system. The one or more payment options comprise payment using loyalty points, online banking, cash on delivery, credit/debit cards and the like.

[0087] According to one embodiment herein, the system is further configured for running a loyalty program for the users. Every time the user shops with the system, loyalty points are allotted to the user which can be used by the user as a currency in his/her next purchase through the system. Further, other loyalty programs specific to any store or portal associated with the system are also integrated into the system for the user to earn loyalty points. Such loyalty points are converted into loyalty points offered by the system based on agreement conditions agreed upon with retailer/loyalty partner in advance. Shopper are provided with an option to carry reward points under that loyalty program as independent points (that are used only at the time of shopping with that merchant) or merge current rewards with the system loyalty points. A loyalty card is added and details of the loyalty program are saved/displayed under the loyalty program. Each point is assigned a value and shopper is provided with an option to shop using these points at the time of payment. Alternatively, special deals/offers are provided to redeem against their points.

[0088] According to one embodiment herein, the server 204 further comprises the product delivery module 218 configured for enabling the user to specify one or more delivery locations for the plurality products purchased. The product delivery module 218 is further configured for enabling the products purchased from the online portals or offline stores to be delivered or picked-up from one or more geographical locations as per user convenience. The purchase is provided with a unique identification code, and when the customer opts for home delivery of the purchased items, the purchased items are grouped under the unique identification code and delivered to the address provided by the customer.

[0089] According to one embodiment herein, the system also provides a feature of tracking the orders for the users in case the user opts for delivery of purchased items. The users/customers are allowed to track their orders using mobile applications.

[0090] According to one embodiment herein, the server 204 further comprises the data analysis module 220 configured for analyzing a plurality of user data to understand business processes and user behavior. The plurality of user data comprises purchase type, personal information, feedback and sentiments, frequency of spending, merchandising data and other user centric data such as demography and loyalty points. The user data analysis is shared with the vendors/merchants for understanding user behavior and for presenting the user with promotional offers/discounts based on user behavior.

[0091] The analysis of the purchase type helps to understand customer purchase history which further helps effectively to promote future product offering to customer base. The analysis of personal information helps to design effective personalized marketing and communication materials/offerings using customer details like name, date of birth, address etc. The analysis of customer feedback and sentiments helps establish successful product types and improve future offerings. The analysis of frequency of customer spends helps in determining the frequency and type of sales and marketing promotions and to distinguish impulse buyers and infrequent need based shoppers. This is also useful in detecting "lost" customers and formulating strategies to win them back.

[0092] According to one embodiment herein, the server 204 further comprises the messaging module 222 configured for sending one or more messages to the users and the vendors associated with the system. The one or more messages are related to the loyalty program offered by the system, product recommendations, product availability, promotional offers/discount availability and user buying patterns. The messaging module 222 helps in an effective retail strategy through real-time customer engagement which enables retailers to respond to customer actions quickly and with an appropriate context. Real-time responsiveness through messaging improves consistency in cross-channel messaging. The system collects user data anonymously (without revealing or masking the personally identifiable information) as per applicable laws of the country of operation.

[0093] According to one embodiment herein, the server 204 further comprises the security module 224. The security module 224 is configured for providing security /privacy of the user data and transactions while conforming to multiple security standards and norms. The server 204 also comprises a promotional offers/discount module 226 configured for identifying one or more promotional offers/discounts provided by the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops and for presenting the identified promotional offers/discounts to the user in real time. The offers extended by merchants are listed in an "offers section". The shoppers are allowed to review those offers and apply when shopping. The system also pushes offers from the merchant that are sent to the users as popup, SMS or notification.

[0094] According to one embodiment herein, the system further comprises the product display unit 228 communicatively coupled with the server. One or more product display units 228 are placed within the offline stores associated with the system or at one or more geographical locations that are expected to have maximum user/customer footfall. Each product display unit 228 is configured for displaying images/pictures of a plurality of products from a particular store or from the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops on a digital display along with a barcode corresponding to each product. The user is enabled to shop/purchase one or more products by scanning the bar code adjacent to each product. [0095] According to one embodiment herein, the product display unit 228 is a static (With Printed flex) or Dynamic (With LED / Other type of screen) unit that displays the pictures of products with or without the barcode. These products are identified with the barcode, item picture or any other forms of identification. A store may have a dedicated wall for this purpose within the store. In this case, products available from that store are displayed. The store may also display items not physically kept in store but that the merchant can service. The items to be displayed on the product display units 228 are decided by the system based on the recommendation engine and the arrangement is configurable by merchant/s and/or based on the location of the unit. The product display units 228 at other locations like transport hubs including bus stops, metro stations, rail stations, airport, residential, commercial and office buildings/parking spaces carry products from one or more than one store. Shoppers are allowed to place the order by scanning the product barcode or any other identification mark provided and the order is processed and forwarded to the respective merchant for execution.

[0096] According to one embodiment herein, the system further comprises a database 230 configured for storing the product catalogues, vendor/merchant information, user data, purchase and transaction history.

[0097] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic diagram depicting implementation details of the system for high availability. With respect to FIG. 3, multiple redundancies built-in provides 100% uptime and availability of the system. This is done to ensure total customer satisfaction and user experience. In one example embodiment, the module is created using AWS EC2 auto-scale and servers placed on Multi-AZ. The software is based on the micro-services architecture with each component capable of scaling on its own based on the demand. [0098] According to one embodiment herein, the messaging module 222 uses scalable AWS messaging tools. In one example embodiment, a combination of Amazon Web Service's SQS (Simple Queue Service), SNS (Simple Notification Service), SES (Simple Email Service) is used (as shown in FIG. 4) to keep the customers and vendors informed with timely alerts and messages.

[0099] According to one embodiment herein, several security tools are used as part of the security module 224. In one example embodiment, AWS VPC (Amazon Web Services, Virtual Private Cloud) is used as the most secured Cloud platform and due to the availability of vast security tools in its marketplace. Various parts of the system's backend, middleware and frontend are isolated and kept in different security groups within a de-militarized kind of environment (as shown in FIG. 5) to ensure utmost security and privacy of the users/customers data and transactions in addition to conforming with multiple security standards and norms like ISO-27001 and PCI-DSS.

[00100] According to one embodiment herein, the system is further capable of handling order cancellations. The customer/shopper is provided with an option to cancel the whole order or any item/s from the order. The system raises a ticket for this reverse transaction but the cancellation is only approved and closed by the merchant. The cancellation/refund policy of respective merchant is applicable in all cases. The shopper needs to take the item/s to the merchant and cancellation/refund is approved by the merchant on the merchant application/panel. The amount paid is refunded by the system on the same mode of payment that is used to make payment while placing the order. This amount is debited from merchant account during the next scheduled settlement. The shopper is provided contact details of the merchant for cancellation/refund process. The shopper is also provided suitable support through call/email in case of any problem or if the matter needs to be escalated. [00101] According to one embodiment herein, the system further provides a Merchant Application and Merchant Panel. These are run in parallel to shopper application. When a shopper complete the process of shopping, all information including the order code, order details etc., are sent to merchant through this merchant application and web based panel that can be opened on merchants POS / Computer. Merchant execute and control all Unishop transactions through these platforms.

[00102] According to one embodiment herein, the system further provides the users to shop using "One Click Shopping" or "Express Pay". In case the shopper needs to pick-up only one item, this is done by scanning and paying without adding the product into the cart. The item is scanned and displayed on the screen. The user clicks on the "Click Pay (click)" button and the order confirmation (receipt) is displayed.

[00103] According to one embodiment herein, the system uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR) for enhancing user experience while shopping with the system.

[00104] According to one embodiment herein, the mobile application is configured for working in several countries across the world. Thus, the mobile application is configured for automatically switching to a local currency for payments and to a local language for interactions based on requirement or detected/identified geographical location

[00105] According to one embodiment herein, the mobile application is integrated with other mobile applications/platforms as part/extension/independent application for various tasks like making payments for bills, messaging etc.

[00106] According to one embodiment herein, the system saves the order history and shoppers are provided with an option to pick-up any of past order and select items to reorder. Once items are selected for re-order, these are checked for current availability/price and added to the cart. A family is allowed to shop simultaneously and add items to a common cart. One of the member/administrator is allowed to finalize the cart and check out by paying from his/her account. Similarly numbers of people are allowed to shop in a group. A family group is formed at the time of registration and a social group is formed, as and when required, temporarily.

[00107] According to one embodiment herein, the shoppers are provided with an option to take items with them after the payment is done. In case numbers of items are large, the shopper is allowed to opt for partial pick-up in case he/she wants to carry only a few items with them. These items are marked separately and the merchant allows these to be taken away. Rests of the items in order are delivered to the registered address. The shopper are also offered an option of a scheduled pick-up in which shopper can decide to pick these items at a later pre-fixed time. The merchant keeps the order ready for pick-up at this prefixed time.

[00108] According to one embodiment herein, the shoppers are further categorized in various tiers and are offered different prices of the same item at the same time. This is done on basis of loyalty level, order volume, length of patronage etc. The shoppers are also grouped according to their loyalty points earned. The loyalty member tier comprises Platinum, Gold, Silver, etc. Services are extended on basis of loyalty level achieved by the shopper on the system or independent merchant level (where merchant's loyalty program is integrated with the system).

[00109] According to one embodiment herein, the system provides product information to the user once the product is scanned. The system provides information about the products which is available on the packaging for ready reference. The system also provides information that is not available on packaging that includes details of manufacturer, place of origin, use, receipts, complimentary products, nutritional value, reviews, etc. In case the desirable size/color is not available in stock in a store where the shopper is shopping, an option to scan same item (of other size/color) and select desired size/color is provided. The item selected/bought is delivered on the registered address.

[00110] According to one embodiment herein, the system provides paperless billing facility since the information of any purchase or transaction is notified by SMS/email. Thus, the paper bills and charge slips are not required thus saving papers.

[00111] FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram depicting the types of data analytics performed in the system, according to one embodiment herein. With respect to FIG. 6, data from sales orders, inventory and user purchasing trends is collected as data from multiple physical locations. The collected data is used for purpose of generating business intelligence and providing real time information to business users and customers. For the purpose of generating business intelligence, data is uploaded and stored on the server. The stored data is sorted and aggregated to generate required information. The information is then represented in a form that helps in making business centric decisions. Similarly, the collected sales order, inventory and user purchasing trends as data from multiple physical locations is streamed in real-time and processed on to the server using stream processors. The processed data is stored in the database. The stored data is then made available in near real time to online business users/customers.

[00112] FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart explaining an example method for first time user registration and shopping with the system, according to one embodiment herein. With respect to FIG. 7, the user downloads the mobile application provided by the system on the computing device (702). The user registers with the system by providing one or more personal details (704). The user enters his/her mobile number (706). The system generates a one-time password (OTP) and shares with the user for verification purpose. The user needs to enter this OTP using the mobile application (708). On successful verification, the user is allowed to login to the mobile application using email ID, name or via Facebook or Google account (710).

[00113] FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart explaining an example method for checkout using the system, according to one embodiment herein. With respect to FIG. 8, when the user selects the check out tab (802), the option for delivery (804) or pick-up (806) is provided to the user. When the user selects the delivery tab, the user is allowed to provide delivery address/instructions (808). The default address of the user is saved and presented to the user for selection. The order is placed and the bill is sent to the registered Email ID (810). When the user selects the pick-up tab (806), the user is provided with an option for partial pick-up (812) or all items pick-up (814). On selection by the user, the pick-up code and bill generated is sent to the user (816). The process from user side is completed at this step. The merchant then opens his/her mobile application (818). The merchant scans or enters the pick-up code (820). The order is displayed to the merchant. The merchant then scans or check marks items to complete the order list (822). The magnetic/store tags are removed from the items (824). All the items in the order are then bagged (826).

[00114] FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart explaining an example method for re-order and partial re-order of a product using the system, according to one embodiment herein. With respect to FIG. 9, the shopper enters the store and launches the mobile application (902). The user checks the side menu (904) in the mobile application and clicks on "My orders" (906). The user selects the order or a particular item form the order (908) which he/she wishes to reorder and clicks on it. The order or the item is added to the cart (910). The user is also provided with an option to select size and quantity before adding it to the cart (912). Once the item is added to the cart routine checkout process is followed (914). [00115] FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart explaining a method for shopping using the integrated online and offline shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein. With respect to FIG. 10, the user is enters the offline store (1002). The user launches the mobile application (1004). The offline store that user entered is automatically detected on launching the mobile application. The user can either open the side menu in the mobile application (1006) or scan the items to be purchased (1008). When the user scans the items the items are directly added to the cart (1010) after selection of size and quantity (1012). After this, the usual check out process follows (1014). When the user selects the option of shopping through mobile application by selecting side menu, the online store is presented to the user (1016). The user selects the catalogue (1018) and selects the items to be purchased (1020) which are then added to the cart and usual check out process follows.

[00116] FIG. 11 illustrates a flowchart explaining an example method for adding items to a single cart by different members of a family, according to one embodiment herein. With respect to FIG. 11, one or members of the family check into a store for shopping (1102). Each member launches the mobile application on their mobile application (1104). Each member scans the products selected by them for purchase (1106). All the individual items selected by the one or more members are added to a single cart (1108). After this, the usual check out process is followed for completion of the purchase (1110).

[00117] FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart explaining an example method for multi-store shopping using the system, according to one embodiment herein. With respect to FIG. 12, the user enters the first store (1202) and launches the mobile application (1204). The user scans the items (1206) and the items are added to the cart (1208). The user then enters another store (1210). The user can re-launch the mobile application or can continue shopping with the previously launched application (1212). The user scans the items from the second store (1214) and the items are added to the cart (1216). The user can likewise shop from many store and keep adding items to the cart. The user finally checks out using the usual check out process (1218).

[00118] FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart explaining an example method for scanning the items in the offline store, according to one embodiment herein. With respect to FIG. 13, the user enters the shop (1302) and launches the mobile application (1304). The selected items are scanned (1306) and added to the cart (1308). The user is enabled to select size and quantity for the selected items (1310). The user then checks out using the usual check out process (1312). The user can also go to the local billing counter/POS (Point of Sale device)/Barcode reader after scanning the items (1314). The items are then directly added to an Out Basket (1316) and user proceeds to check out (1312).

[00119] FIG. 14 illustrates a flowchart explaining overall process for shopping using the integrated offline and online shopping platform, according to one embodiment herein. With respect to FIG. 14, the user is registered with the system and the launches the mobile application (1402). The store is selected either automatically or manually (1404). The user scans items (1406) and adds or cancels it (1408). The selected items are added (1410) and then placed in the cart (1414). The payment process after this (1412). The user selects amongst one or more options provided by the system for making payment. The user specifies the choice about weather he/she would like the order to be delivered or is taking it along (1416). An order number is generated and bill is sent to the Email ID of the user. In case, the user asked for delivery, then a pick-up code is generated and shared with the user. The user can still continue shopping with the system. When the user selects a specific store for shopping (1420), then that store related is menu is displayed on the screen. The menu comprises various tabs such as profile, history, help, loyalty points, notifications, promotions, information, contact and sign out etc. The offers related to that store are also displayed to the user (1422). The user can enter the promo code specific to that offer or directly add offer to the cart.

[00120] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments herein will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments herein without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

[00121] The various embodiments herein provide a system and a plurality of methods for enabling an integrated online and offline shopping platform. The integrated platform for shopping offers the advantages of online and offline shopping. The platform also enables a plurality of shopping options and processes for an integrated online and offline shopping platform across a plurality of product types and geographical locations. The online portal virtually renders products comprised in a physical shop on a computing device and enables users to purchase the products. An integrated online shopping portal also enables a shopper to identify the availability and prices of a product in a plurality of brick and mortar shops and online shopping portals.

[00122] Further, the user is provided with a mobile application. On launching the mobile application, the system automatically detects user location and recommends stores in the vicinity of user geo-location. The user is also provided an option of entering a store name that he/she wishes to shop from. The system provides a complete solution for shopping from finding product, comparing product, building cart, payment, delivery options and follow up action. The system also offers product display units placed at various locations that display plurality of products to shop from. The user just needs to scan the barcode of the products to add those items to the cart. The system further allows different members of a family or group to shop together by adding products selected by different members to a same cart. Additionally, user is facilitated to shop from different stores and keeps adding products to the cart. All the items from different stores can be billed at the end in a single order. Additionally, the system also provides a mobile application for vendors/merchants to present real time/location based offers to the customers.

[00123] Moreover, other advantages provided by the integrated system include loyalty program, one click shopping or express pay, integrated third party loyalty program, re-order or partial re-order, partial scheduled pick-up, differential pricing, paperless billing and the like. Thus, the system is a standard/universal tool available on the computing device of the user that is used for shopping across brands, sectors and geographies.

[00124] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments herein will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments herein without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments.

[00125] It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modifications. However, all such modifications are deemed to be within the scope of the claims.

[00126] Although the embodiments herein are described with various specific embodiments, it will be obvious for a person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments herein with modifications.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A system for providing integrated online and offline shopping platform, the system comprising:

a mobile application downloaded on a computing device of a user, and wherein the mobile application is configured for enabling the user to access a plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops associated with the system;

a server communicatively coupled with the computing device of the user, and wherein the server is configured for enabling the user to shop a plurality of products from the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops using the mobile application;

a location detection module provided in the server and run on a hardware processor, and wherein the location detection is configured for detecting a real time geo location of the user and identifying one or more offline/brick and mortar shops present in the vicinity of the user location in real time;

an availability module provided in the server and run on a hardware processor, and wherein the availability module is configured for identifying the availability and prices of a user specified product in the online shopping portals and identified offline/brick and mortar shops present in the vicinity of the user, and wherein the availability module is further configured for presenting the identified product available from one or more merchants/vendors to the user and for enabling the user to compare the product available from one or more merchants/vendors;

a recommendation module provided in the server and run on a hardware processor, and wherein the recommendation module is configured for recommending one or more products to the user based on a plurality of factors, and wherein the plurality of factors comprises a location of the user, a buying history of the user and a shopping pattern of the user;

a payment processing module provided in the server and run on a hardware processor, and wherein the payment processing module is configured for enabling the user to make payment for the products purchased through the mobile application using one or more payment options provided by the system; and

a product delivery module provided in the server and run on a hardware processor, and wherein the product delivery module is configured for enabling the user to specify one or more delivery locations for the plurality products purchased, and wherein the product delivery module is further configured for enabling the products purchased from one or more offline stores to be delivered or picked-up from one or more geographical locations as per user convenience.

The system according to claim 1, wherein the server further comprises a data analysis module, and wherein the data analysis module is configured for analyzing a plurality of user data to understand business processes and user behaviour, and wherein the plurality of user data comprises purchase type, personal information, feedback and sentiments, frequency of spending, merchandising data and other user centric data such as demography and loyalty points.

The system according to claim 1, wherein the system further comprises a product display unit communicatively coupled with the server, and wherein one or more product display units are placed within the offline stores associated with the system or at one or more geographical locations that are expected to have maximum user/customer footfall, and wherein each product display unit is configured for displaying images/pictures of a plurality of products from a particular store or from the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops on a digital display along with a barcode corresponding to each product, and wherein the user is enabled to shop/purchase one or more products by scanning the bar code adjacent to each product.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the server further comprises a messaging module, and wherein the messaging module is configured for sending one or more messages to the users and the one or more vendors associated with the system, and wherein the one or more messages are related to a loyalty program offered by the system, product recommendations, product availability, promotional offers/discount availability.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the server further comprises a security module, and wherein the security module is configured for providing security/privacy of the user data and transactions while conforming with a plurality of security standards and norms.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the server further comprises a promotional offers/discount module, and wherein the promotional offers/discount module is configured for identifying one or more promotional offers/discounts provided by the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops and for presenting the identified promotional offers/discounts to the user in real time.

7. A method for providing integrated online and offline shopping platform through a computing device provided with a hardware processor and memory, the method comprising the steps of:

registering a user with the system by downloading a mobile application provided by the system on the computing device of the user, and wherein the user registers with the system by providing one or more personal details;

presenting a catalogue of plurality of products available in online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops every time user launches the mobile application;

recommending a plurality of products to the user based on user location and purchase history, and wherein the user location is detected using the computing device of the user; enabling the user to add one or more selected products to a shopping cart and make payments for the selected products using one or more payment options provided by the system; and

enabling the user to select one or more delivery locations for the plurality products purchased and enabling the products purchased from one or more offline stores to be delivered or picked-up from one or more geographical locations as per user convenience.

8. The method according to claim 7 further comprises analyzing a plurality of user data to understand business processes and user behaviour, and wherein the plurality of user data comprises purchase type, personal information, feedback and sentiments, frequency of spending, merchandising data and other user centric data such as demography and loyalty points.

9. The method according to claim 7 further comprises placing one or more product display units within the offline stores associated with the system or at one or more geographical locations that are expected to have maximum user/customer footfall.

10. The method according to claim 7 further comprises displaying images/pictures of a plurality of products from a particular store or from the plurality of online shopping portals and offline/brick and mortar shops on a digital display of the one or more product display units along with a barcode corresponding to each product, and wherein the user is enabled to shop/purchase one or more products by scanning the bar code adjacent to each product.