WO2006128223A1

WO2006128223A1 - Event creator

Info

Publication number: WO2006128223A1
Application number: PCT/AU2006/000723
Authority: WO
Inventors: Aaron Greaves
Original assignee: Aaron Greaves
Priority date: 2005-05-31
Filing date: 2006-05-31
Publication date: 2006-12-07

Abstract

A method (400) and system (1) for determining one or more suppliers to assist in an event. The system (1) and method (400) includes transferring, from a client processing system (10) to a server processing system (20), input data indicative of criteria of the event. Then, searching, using the server processing system (20) and the criteria of the event, a data store (30) to determine one or more suppliers which satisfy the criteria of the event. Then, transferring, from the server processing system (20) to the client processing system (10), output data indicative of the one or more suppliers which satisfied the criteria of the event. This method (400) and system (1) allows a user at the client processing system (10) to review the output data of the search to determine one or more suppliers to assist in the event.

Description

EVENT CREATOR

Technical Field

The present invention generally relates to planning events. In one particular, but non- limiting, form, the present invention relates to a method, system and/or computer product to plan an event, such as a corporate event.

Background Art

Planning an event can be an extremely stressful exercise for a person whom has little or no experience in the event planning and management industry. This is particularly the case due to the lack of knowledge and the lack of contacts to facilitate the planning and management process effectively.

In one example, it is estimated that 95% of corporations coordinate corporate events using their own in-house staff which are not effectively trained to plan corporate events. Due to the lack of knowledge of the staff in corporate event management, the corporate event can be less than satisfying for the corporation.

One possible solution is to hire an event manager who plans the event for a client. The event manager provides a detailed knowledge of the event management industry. The event manager is aware of resources available to conduct a successful event and therefore the event is likely to be more satisfying for a client.

However, event managers generally charge a 20% - 50% mark-up for planning the event. As such, this cost can be a significant deterrent for using an event manager.

Therefore, there is a need for a method, system and/or computer product which assists planning an event which addresses or at least ameliorates one or more problems inherent in the prior art.

The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from the prior publication), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from the prior publication) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

A supplier (also known as a partner) is a person or organisation which assists in the event. In one form, the supplier supplies a good or service for the event. A supplier can include, but is not limited to, a person, a group of people, or an organisation offering one or more of the following: catering goods and/or services, venue goods and/or services, invitation goods and/or services, audio, video and lighting goods and/or services, printing goods and/or services, wait services, speaking services, promotional staff goods and/or services, theme goods and/or services, entertainment goods and/or services, photography goods and/or services, and/or merchandise goods and/or services.

In a networked information or data communications system, a user has access to one or more terminals which are capable of requesting and/or receiving information or data from local or remote information sources. In such a communications system, a terminal may be a type of processing system, computer or computerised device, personal computer (PC), mobile, cellular or satellite telephone, mobile data terminal, portable computer, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), pager, thin client, or any other similar type of digital electronic device. These forms of processing systems which the user is able to use is generally referred to herein as a client processing system. The capability of such a terminal to request and/or receive information or data can be provided by software, hardware and/or firmware. A terminal may include or be associated with other devices, for example a local data storage device such as a hard disk drive or solid state drive.

An information source can include a server processing system, or any type of terminal, that may be associated with one or more storage devices that are able to store information or data, for example in one or more databases residing on a storage device. The exchange of information (ie. the request and/or receipt of information or data) between a client processing system and server processing system, or other client processing system(s), is facilitated by a communication means. The communication means can be realised by physical cables, for example a metallic cable such as a telephone line, semi-conducting cables, electromagnetic signals, for example radio-frequency signals or infra-red signals, optical fibre cables, satellite links or any other such medium or combination thereof connected to a network infrastructure.

Disclosure Of Invention

In one broad form, the present invention provides a method of allowing a user to determine a supplier for assisting in an event, wherein the method includes, in a server processing system: receiving, from a client processing system, input data provided by the user, wherein the input data is indicative of criteria for the event; generating output data by performing a search, using the criteria of the event, of a data store, wherein the output data is indicative of one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy the criteria of the event; and providing the output data to the user, thereby allowing the user to select the supplier from the output data.

In one particular, but non-limiting, form, the method includes: receiving, from the client processing system, the input data further indicative of a selected template for the event, wherein the selected template is indicative of one or more supplier categories for the event; and transferring to the client processing system, the output data indicative of the one or more suppliers for the one or more supplier categories for the selected template.

In another particular, but non-limiting, form, in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes, prior to providing the output data to the user: determining a rating for each supplier; and ordering the plurality of suppliers represented by the output data according to each respective rating, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

In one optional embodiment, in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: receiving the input data from the client processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event; and ordering the plurality of suppliers represented by the output data according to each priority associated with the at least some of the criteria of the event, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

In another optional embodiment, in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: receiving the input data from the client processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a weighted priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event; and ordering the plurality of suppliers represented by the output data according to each respective weighted priority, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

In one aspect, the method includes: receiving, from the client processing system, selection data indicative of a selected supplier to assist in the event.

In another aspect, the method includes: receiving, from the client processing system, rating data indicative of the user's satisfaction with the selected supplier assisting in the event; determining a new rating for the selected supplier; and updating the rating of the selected supplier with the new rating. Optionally, in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: determining a rating for each supplier; receiving the input data from the client processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event; determining a score for each supplier using a scoring formula, wherein the score for each supplier is determined according to a rating for each supplier and each priority associated with the at least some of the criteria of the event; and ordering the plurality of suppliers represented by the output data according each score, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

In a second broad form, the present invention provides a server processing system to allow a user to determine a supplier for assisting in an event, wherein the server processing system is configured to: receive, from a client processing system, input data provided by the user, wherein the input data is indicative of criteria for the event; generate output data by performing a search, using the criteria of the event, of a data store, wherein the output data is indicative of one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy the criteria of the event; and provide the output data to the user, thereby allowing the user to select the supplier from the output data.

In a third broad form, the present invention provides a method of determining a supplier for assisting in an event, wherein the method includes, in a client processing system: transferring, to a server processing system, input data provided by a user, wherein the input data is indicative of criteria for the event; receiving output data indicative of one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy a search of a data store using the criteria of the event; and providing the output data to the user, thereby allowing the user to select the supplier from the output data. In one particular, but non-limiting, form, the method includes: transferring, to the server processing system, the input data indicative of a selected template for the event, wherein the selected template is indicative of one or more supplier categories for the event; and receiving from the server processing system, the output data indicative of the one or more suppliers for the one or more supplier categories for the selected template.

In another particular, but non-limiting, form, in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes, prior to providing the output data to the user: receiving the output data from the server processing system, wherein the plurality of suppliers have been ordered according to a rating associated with at least some of the suppliers, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

In one optional embodiment, in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: transferring the input data to the server processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event by the user; and receiving the output data, wherein the plurality of suppliers have been ordered according to each priority for each criteria of the event, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

In another optional embodiment, in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: transferring the input data to the server processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a weighted priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event; and receiving the output data, wherein the plurality of suppliers have been ordered according to each weighted priority for each criteria of the event, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner. In one aspect, the method includes: transferring, to the server processing system, selection data indicative of a selected supplier to assist in the event.

In another aspect, the method includes: transferring, to the server processing system, rating data indicative of the user's satisfaction with the selected supplier assisting in the event, wherein a new rating is determined for the selected supplier using the rating data and the rating of the selected supplier is updated with the new rating.

Optionally, in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: transferring the input data to the server processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event, wherein a score is determined for each supplier using a scoring formula, wherein the score for each supplier is determined according to a rating for the supplier and each priority associated with the at least some of the criteria of the event; and receiving the output data, wherein the plurality of suppliers represented by the output data are ordered according to each score, such that the suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

In a fourth broad form, the present invention provides a client processing system to select one or more suppliers for assisting in an event, wherein the client processing system is configured to: transfer, to a server processing system, input data provided by a user, wherein the input data is indicative of criteria for the event; receive, from the server processing system, output data indicative of one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy a search of a data store using the criteria of the event; and provide the output data to the user, thereby allowing the user to select the supplier from the output data.

In a fifth broad form, the present invention provides a method of determining a supplier to assist in an event, wherein the method includes: transferring, from a client processing system to a server processing system, input data indicative of criteria of the event; searching, using the server processing system and the criteria of the event, a data store to determine one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy the criteria of the event; and transferring, from the server processing system to the client processing system, output data indicative of the one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfied the criteria of the event, thereby allowing a user at the client processing system to review the output data of the search.

In a sixth broad form the present invention provides a system to determine one or more suppliers to assist in an event, wherein the system includes a client processing system, a server processing system in data communication with the client processing system, and a data store searchable by the server processing system, wherein the system is configured to: transfer, from the client processing system to the server processing system, input data indicative of criteria of the event; search, using the server processing system and the criteria of the event, the data store to determine one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy the criteria of the event; and transfer, from the server processing system to the client processing system, output data indicative of the one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfied the criteria of the event, thereby allowing a user at the client processing system to review the output data of the search. In another broad form, the present invention provides a computer readable medium of instructions to perform any of the above methods, and/or for use with any of the above systems.

In another broad form, the present invention provides a computer program product to perform any of the above methods, and/or for use with any of the above systems.

Brief Description Of Figures

An example embodiment of the present invention should become apparent from the following description, which is given by way of example only, of a preferred but non- limiting embodiment, described in connection with the accompanying figures.

Figure IA illustrates a block diagram illustrating an example of a system to allow a user to select one or more suppliers for assisting in an event;

Figure IB illustrates a functional block diagram of an example processing system that can be utilised as a client processing system and/or a server processing system;

Figure 2 illustrates a flowchart representing an example of a method performed in a server processing system to allow a user to select one or more suppliers for assisting in an event;

Figure 3 illustrates a flowchart representing an example of a method performed in a client processing system to allow a user to select one or more suppliers for assisting in an event;

Figure 4 illustrates a flowchart representing an example of a method to allow a user to select one or more suppliers for assisting in an event;

Figures 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D illustrate a flowchart representing a more detailed example of the method of Figure 4; Figures 6A and 6B illustrate a flowchart representing an example method of a user modifying user event data;

Figure 7 illustrates a flowchart representing an example method of requesting and receiving rating data of a selected supplier;

Figure 8 illustrates a flowchart representing an example of a modification of the method of Figure 5;

Figures 9 A and 9B illustrate a flowchart representing an example of a modification of the method of Figure 5;

Figure 10 illustrates a flowchart representing an example of a modification of the method of Figure 5;

Figure 11 illustrates a flowchart representing an example of a modification of the method of Figure 5;

Figure 12 illustrates a flowchart representing an example method of determining suppliers for an event using a template;

Figure 13 illustrates an example of user input of event criteria and a process of sorting the suppliers using the supplier rating;

Figure 14 illustrates an example of a user input of event criteria and a process of sorting using the event criteria, the user priority and the supplier rating;

Figure 15 illustrates an example of a user input of event criteria and a process of sorting using the event criteria, the user priority weighting and the supplier rating;

Figure 16 illustrates an example of a supplier rating request; Figure 17 illustrates a block diagram representing an example of a request and transfer of supplier rating data;

Figure 18 illustrates an example of a working checklist for suppliers for an event;

Figure 19 illustrates a block diagram representing a more detailed example of the system of Figure 1;

Figure 20 illustrates a block diagram of a more detailed example of some actions available to the user using the system;

Figure 21 illustrates a block diagram of a more detailed example of some actions available to the user using the system;

Figure 22 illustrates a block diagram of a more detailed example of some action available to an supplier using the system; and

Figure 23 illustrates a block diagram representing an example of template which can be used by the user in the system.

Modes for Carrying Out The Invention

The following modes, given by way of example only, are described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of a preferred embodiment or embodiments.

In the figures, incorporated to illustrate features of an example embodiment, like reference numerals are used to identify like parts throughout the figures.

Referring to Figure IA, there is shown a system 1 to determine one or more suppliers to assist in an event. The system 1 includes a client processing system 10, a server processing system 20 in data communication, via a communication means 40, with the client processing system 10, and a data store 30 searchable by the server processing system 20. The data store 30 may be searchable, directly or indirectly (via the server processing system 20) by the client processing system 10. This system 1 is configured to transfer from the client processing system 10 to the server processing system 20, input data indicative of criteria of the event. The system is further configured to search using the server processing system 20 and the criteria of the event, the data store 30 to determine the one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy the criteria of the event. The system then transfers from the server processing system 20 to the client processing system 10, output data indicative of the one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfied the criteria of the event, thereby allowing a user at the client processing system 10 to review the output data of the search.

An example of a processing system suitable for the client processing system 10 and/or server processing system 20 is shown in Fig. 2. In particular, the processing system 100 generally includes at least one processor 102, or processing unit or plurality of processors, memory 104, at least one input device 106 and at least one output device 108, coupled together via a bus or group of buses 110. In certain embodiments, input device 106 and output device 108 could be the same device. An interface 112 can also be provided for coupling the processing system 100 to one or more peripheral devices, for example interface 112 could be a PCI card or PC card. At least one storage device 114 which houses at least one database 116 can also be provided. It is noted that database 116 may be the data store 30. However, this is not essential as it is possible that database 116 and data store 30 may be separate entities. The memory 104 can be any form of memory device, for example, volatile or non-volatile memory, solid state storage devices, magnetic devices, etc. The processor 102 could include more than one distinct processing device, for example to handle different functions within the processing system 100. Input device 106 receives input data 118 and can include, for example, a keyboard, a pointer device such as a pen-like device or a mouse, audio receiving device for voice controlled activation such as a microphone, data receiver or antenna such as a modem or wireless data adaptor, data acquisition card, etc. Input data 118 could come from different sources, for example keyboard instructions in conjunction with data received via a network. Output device 108 produces or generates output data 120 and can include, for example, a display device or monitor in which case output data 120 is visual, a printer in which case output data 120 is printed, a port for example a USB port, a peripheral component adaptor, a data transmitter or antenna such as a modem or wireless network adaptor, etc. Output data 120 could be distinct and derived from different output devices, for example a visual display on a monitor in conjunction with data transmitted to a network. A user could view data output, or an interpretation of the data output, on, for example, a monitor or using a printer, The storage device 114 can be any form of data or information storage means, for example, volatile or non- volatile memory, solid state storage devices, magnetic devices, etc.

In use, the processing system 100 is adapted to allow data or information to be stored in and/or retrieved from, via wired or wireless communication means, the at least one database 116. The interface 112 may allow wired and/or wireless communication between the processing unit 102 and peripheral components that may serve a specialised purpose. The processor 102 receives instructions as input data 118 via input device 106 and can display processed results or other output to a user by utilising output device 108. More than one input device 106 and/or output device 108 can be provided. It should be appreciated that the processing system 100 may be any form of terminal, server, specialised hardware, or the like.

The processing system 100 may be a part of a networked communications system.

Processing system 100 could connect to network, for example the Internet or a WAN.

Input data 118 and output data 120 could be communicated to other devices via the network. The transfer of information and/or data over the network can be achieved using wired communications means or wireless communications means. The server processing system can facilitate the transfer of data between the network and one or more databases.

The server processing system and one or more databases provide an example of an information source. The data store 30 may be a single storage medium searchable by the server processing system 20. Alternatively, the data store 30 may include a number of distributed or separated storage mediums which store data. In one form, the data store 30 may be provided as a database.

Referring to Figure 2, there is shown a method of allowing a user to determine one or more suppliers for assisting in an event. At step 210, the method 200 performed in the server processing system 20 includes receiving, from a client processing system 10, input data provided by the user, wherein the input data is indicative of the criteria for the event. At step 220, the method 200 includes generating output data indicative of one or more suppliers by performing a search of the data store 30 using the criteria of the event. The method 200 then includes step 230, including providing the output data to the client processing system 10 for the user to review. By providing the one or more suppliers to the user based on the event criteria, the user is able to determine a suitable supplier based on the event to be held.

Figure 3 shows a method of determining the one or more suppliers for assisting in an event. At step 310, the method 300 performed in the client processing system includes, transferring to the server processing system 20, the input data indicative of the criteria for the event. At step 320, the method 300 includes receiving output data indicative of one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy a search of the data store 30. The method 300 then includes step 330 of providing the output data to the user, such that the user may review the one or more suppliers.

Referring now to Figure 4, there is shown a method of determining the one or more suppliers to assist in an event. At step 410, the method includes transferring, from the client processing system 10 to the server processing system 20, the input data indicative of the criteria for the event. At step 420, the method 400 includes searching, using the server processing system 20, and the criteria of the event, the data store 30 to determine one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy the criteria of the event. At step 430, the method 400 includes transferring, from the server processing system 20 to the client processing system 10, the output data indicative of the one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy the criteria of the event.

Referring now to Figures 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D, there is shown a more detailed example of a method 500 of determining one or more suppliers to assist in an event.

In particular, the method 500 includes step 505, where the user is provided with an interface using the client processing system 10. In one form, the interface may be an web- page interface which is displayed via a network such as the world wide web. At step 510, the user inputs identification data using an input device of the client processing system 10. In one form, the identification data can be a user name and password.

At step 515, the method 500 includes the client processing system 10 transferring user identification data to the server processing system 20. In one form, the identification data is encrypted prior to being transferred from the client processing system 10 to the server processing system 20. At step 520, the method 500 includes the server processing system 20 performing an authentication of the user using the identification data. In one form, the server processing system 10 performs a decryption of the user identification data, and then compares the decrypted identification data to stored identification data in the data store 30.

At step 525, the method 500 includes the server processing system 20 determining whether the user is valid for the system 1. If the user is not a valid user based on the identification data, the method proceeds to step 530 where access is denied for determining the one or more suppliers to assist in the event. In the event that the user is determined to be valid, the method 500 proceeds to step 535.

At step 535, the method 500 includes the server processing system 20 transferring an event interface to the client processing system 10. In one form, the event interface may be a web-page which allows the user at the client processing system 10 to provide input regarding the criteria of the event. At step 540, the method includes the user providing input data indicative of event criteria using the event interface and an input device of the client processing system 10. In one form, the input data can be input using the keyboard of the client processing system 10. In another form, the event criteria can be input using the mouse of the client processing. system 10. It will be appreciated that a combination of both forms of input devices are possible.

At step 545, the method 500 includes the client processing system transferring the input data to the server processing system 20. At step 550, the server processing system 20 generates a search query using the received input data. In one form, the server processing system 20 may perform an analysis of the input data to generate a search query, such that the search query can be subsequently used to perform a search of the data store 30.

At step 555, the server processing system 20 initiates a search of the data store using the generated search query. At step 560, the server processing system 20 receives, from the data store 30, output data indicative of one or more suppliers at least partially satisfying the search query. At step 565, the method includes the server processing system 20 formatting the output data. In one example, the output data may be formatted for use in the web-page interface. At step 570, the method 500 includes the server processing system 20 transferring the output data to the client processing system 10.

At step 575, the method 500 includes the client processing system 10 providing the output data to the user. In one form, the client processing system 10 provides the output data to the user using an output device, such as the display. At step 580, the method 500 includes the user indicating a selection of one or more suppliers using the input device of the client processing system 10.

At step 585, the client processing system 10 generates selection data indicative of the user selection. At step 590, the method includes the client processing system 10 transferring to the server processing system 20 the one or more selected suppliers. In one form, the suppliers selected are notified of the selection, and details of the event criteria and the contact details of the user are transferred to the supplier. In one form, this notification may occur by e-mail. At step 595, the method 500 includes the server processing system 20 storing user event data indicative of the selected suppliers for the user in the data store 30.

Referring now to Figures 6A and 6B, there is shown an example method 600 of the user modifying the selected suppliers. In particular, the method 600 includes, at step 605, performing steps 505 to 525 of method 500. At step 610, the server processing system 20 retrieves the user event data using the user identification data. At step 615, the server processing system 20 populates the interface with the retrieved user event data. At step 620, the method 600 includes the server processing system 20 transferring the populated user interface to the client processing system 10.

At step 625, the client processing system 10 provides the populated user interface to the user. In one form, the client processing system 10 may provide the populated user interface using the display of the client processing system 10. At step 630, the user modifies the user event data using the input device of the client processing system 10. At step 635, the client processing system 10 generates modification data indicative of the modifications provided by the user at step 630. At step 640, the method 600 includes the client processing system 10 transferring the modification data to the server processing system 20.

At step 645, the server processing system 20 optionally notifies one or more suppliers of the modification to the event data. At step 650, the server processing system 20 updates the storage of the user event data in the data store 30.

Referring now to Figure 7, there is shown an example of requesting and receiving rating data of a selected supplier. In particular, the method 700 includes step 710, where the server processing system 20 generates rating request data for the one or more selected suppliers for the event. At step 720, the server processing system 20 transfers the rating request data to the client processing system 10. At step 730, the user inputs ratings indicative of a level of satisfaction of the one or more selected suppliers using the client processing system 10. In one form, the user inputs the level of satisfaction using the input device of the client processing system 10.

At step 740, the client processing system 10 generates rating data indicative of the user's level of satisfaction at step 730. At step 750, the method 700 includes the client processing system 10 transferring the rating data to the server processing system 20. At step 760, the method 700 includes the server processing system 20 determining supplier ratings for each selected supplier using the rating data. In one form, the supplier rating is calculated based on previous rating data received from previous submissions as well as the received rating data from step 760. At step 770, the server processing system 20 updates the supplier ratings stored in the data store 30.

Figure 8 illustrates an example of a modification of the method 500 of Figure 5. In particular, the method 800 includes, at step 810, performing the steps of 505 to 560 of method 500. At step 820, the method 800 includes the server processing system 20 retrieving supplier rating data for each supplier in the output data. At step 830, the server processing system 20 orders the suppliers of the output data according to the supplier rating data. At step 840, the method of 800 includes performing the steps of 565 to 595 of method 500.

Figure 9A and 9B represent an example of another modification of the method 500 of Figure 5. In particular, the method 900 includes, at step 910, performing the steps of 505 to 540 of method 500. At step 920, the method 900 includes the user providing input indicative of priorities for at least some event criteria. At step 930, the method 900 includes the client processing system 10 generating input data indicative of the event criteria and the priorities. At step 940, the method 900 includes performing the steps of 545 to 560 of method 500. At step 950, the method 900 includes the server processing system 20 ordering the suppliers of the output data according to the priorities for the event criteria. At step 960, the method 900 includes performing the steps of 565 to 595 of method 500. Referring now to Figure 10, there is shown an example of another modification of the method 500 of Figure 5. In particular, at step 1010 the method 1000 includes performing the steps of 505 to 560 of method 500. At step 1020, the method 1000 includes the server processing system 20 determining a score indicative of a level of correspondence between the event criteria and each supplier. In one form, the level of correspondence is determined using a scoring formula. At step 1030, the server processing system 20 orders the suppliers of the output data according to the scores. At step 1040, the method 1000 includes performing the steps of 565 to 595 of method 500.

Referring now to Figure 11, there is shown another example of another modification of the method 500 of Figure 5. In particular, at step 1110, the method 1100 includes performing the steps 910 to 930 of method 900. At step 1120, the method 1100 includes performing the steps of 545 to 560 of method 500. At step 1130, the method 1100 includes performing the step of 820 of method 800. At step 1140, the method 1100 includes performing the step of 1020 of the method 1000. At step 1060, the method 1100 includes the server processing system 20 ordering the suppliers of the output data according to a combination of the supplier rating data, the priorities, and the scores. At step 1070, the method 1100 includes performing steps 565 to 595 of method 500.

Referring now to Figure 12, there is shown an example of a method 1200 of determining suppliers for an event using a template. In particular, the method 1200 includes, at step 1210, the user selecting a template for an event using an interface. In one form, the user selects the template using an input device of the client processing system 10. The template is indicative of one or more supplier categories for the event, At step 1220, the method 1200 includes the user providing event criteria using the interface. At step 1230, the method 1200 includes the client processing system 10 transferring the input data indicative of the event criteria and the selected template to the server processing system 20.

At step 1240, the method 1200 includes the server processing system 20 performing a first search of a group of suppliers to determine a first subset of suppliers based on the supplier categories of the selected template. At step 1250, the method 1200 includes the server processing system 20 performing a second search of the first subset of suppliers using the event criteria to generate the output data indicative of a second subset of suppliers which satisfies the event criteria. At step 1260, the method 1200 includes the server processing system 20 transferring the output data indicative of the suppliers to the client processing system 10.

At step 1270, the method 1200 includes the client processing system 10 displaying the output data to the user. The output data is indicative of the one or more suppliers for each supplier category for the selected template. At step 1280, the method 1200 includes the user selecting the one or more suppliers from the displayed output data, where the selected one or more suppliers are for assisting in the event.

Referring now to Figure 13, there is shown an example of an interface 1300 having event criteria and a process of sorting the suppliers using the supplier ratings. In particular, the interface 1300 includes a number of fields which the user is required to provide user input regarding event criteria. In this example, the interface represents criteria for the venue of the event. The fields required for the venue include the number of attendees to the event, the maximum number of kilometres the venue can be from the CBD (Central Business District), a requirement of a balcony, and a requirement of a podium. As will be appreciated, the interface may be provided for other supplier categories such as catering, and/or transport.

As shown in the interface 1300, the user has provided event criteria for the venue for each of these fields. In particular, the user has indicated in input field 1310 that the number of attendees is one hundred for the event, in input field 1320 the user has indicated that the maximum number of kilometres the venue should be from the CBD is ten, the user has indicated that a balcony is required at radio button 1330, and the user has indicated that a podium is required at radio button 1340. Input data is generated by the client processing system 10, wherein the input data is indicative of the event criteria for the venue of the event. This input data is transferred to the server processing system 20 where a search query is generated using the input data, and a search is initiated of the data store 30 to determine suppliers (ie venues) which at least partially match the event criteria provided by the user.

As shown in Figure 13, the search results 1350 indicate that three venues at least partially matched the search query indicative of the event criteria. In particular, the search results 1350 indicate whether each venue 1360, 1370, 1380 wholly or partially meet each criteria, and also indicate a rating based on feedback from previous users of the respective venues.

The server processing system 20 then performs an ordering process so as to determine an order which the output data is to be presented to the user. The venue which is considered to most suit the user's event criteria is presented at the start of a list of the output data presented to the user, whereas in contrast the venue which is least likely to suit the user's event criteria is presented at the bottom of the list of output data. This ordering allows the user to quickly determine suitable suppliers, and also provides motivation for the suppliers to provide high quality products and/or services.

In this example, the venues are ordered based on the rating for each venue. Thus, as shown in Figure 13, "Venue 3" 1380 is positioned at ranking #1 in the output data 1390, due to having the highest rating, followed by "Venue 2" 1370, and "Venue 3" 1360. The output data is then transferred to the client processing system 10 to be presented to the user. The user can browse one or more of the suppliers presented in the output data to determine more information regarding each supplier. Such information may include a virtual tour of the venue, wine lists, menus, photos, video footage, audio footage, resumes, testimonials, special deals, product lists, floor plans, distance from the airport, proximity of the nearest hotel, proximity of the nearest ferry, proximity of the nearest train station, proximity of the nearest bus depot, food styles, booking terms and conditions as well as other similar forms of information regarding the relevant supplier from the output data. Referring now to Figure 14, there is shown a modification to the sorting process. In particular, it is noted that in this example the same event criteria is used from Figure 13. However, the user is also required to input a user priority 1400, 1410, 1420, 1430 for at least some of the event criteria. Thus, in this example, the user is able to provide input regarding a priority (ie. one, two, three or four) for at least some of the event criteria. In this instance, the higher the priority value, the more important the event criteria is considered. It is noted that is this example, unique priorities are associated with each event criteria, however, this is not essential. As such, in this example, the most important event criteria is the maximum number of kilometres the venue is from the CBD, as this field has been given a priority 1410 of four. Similarly, a balcony 1420 is considered the second most important event criteria due to having a priority of three. The required capacity is then rated the third most important criteria due to having a priority 1400 of two. Finally, the podium is considered the least important criteria for the event venue due to having a priority 1430 of one.

The input data is generated by the client processing system 10 indicative of the event criteria and the priorities for at least some of the event criteria, and is transferred to the server processing system 20 to perform a search. As can be seen from Figure 14, the same search results have been obtained due to the search query being generated using the same event criteria. The server processing system 20 then performs an analysis of each venue 1360, 1370, 1380 to determine which is the most suitable venue for the user based on the event criteria, the ratings and the priorities. In this instance, the server processing system 20 uses a scoring formula to determine a score for each venue. The scoring formula used in this example includes:

Score

where:

UC = User required capacity VC = Venue capacity CV= Capacity Priority UD = User required distance from CBD VD = Venue distance from CBD DP = Distance from CBD priority VB = Venue has balcony ( 1 : True; 0: False)

BP = Balcony Priority VL = Venue has podium ( 1 : True; 0: False) PP = Podium Priority R = Venue feedback rating

Thus, for "Venue 1" 1360, the score is calculated by the server processing system 20 to be:

Vlscore = \ — x 2 + ^° ²^ x 4 + l x 3 + 0x l | x 8 = 64.15 110 10

For "Venue 2" 1370, the score is calculated by the server processing system 20 to be:

66

For "Venue 3" 1380, the score is calculated by the server processing system 20 to be:

V3score = \ — x 2 + (^{10 ~ 15}) χ 4 + O x 3 + 1 x 1 )x lθ = 3.33 U 50 10 J

Each of these scores for each venue 1360, 1370, 1380 are shown in venue score data 1440. Then, the server processing system 20 orders the venues in descending order based on the respective scores. Thus, in this example, "Venue 2" 1370 is ranked #1, whilst "Venue 1" and "Venue 3" are ranked #2 and #3 respectively. As can be seen from the output data 1390 in Figure 14, the use of the priorities can provide a more accurate result compared to the ordering process used in Figure 13 due to the user being able to indicate the priority of each event criteria. It is noted that although the scoring formula above calculates the score for each priority associated with each event criteria, it is possible that the user may input a priority for only some of the event criteria. In this instance where only some of the event criteria have an associated priority, scores can be calculated for event criteria an unbiased priority (ie. if a range of priorities available is between one and four, a neutral priority of two may be associated with an event criteria).

Referring now to Figure 15, there is shown another modification of the sorting process of Figure 13. Again, it is noted the same event criteria is used for that of Figure 13. However, the interface 1300 includes user priority weightings 1500, 1510, 1520, 1530 for each event criteria. The user priority weighting contrasts to the user priority due to the user priority being restricted to a fixed priority weight (ie the most important event criteria was associated with a value of four, the second most important event criteria was associated with a value of three etc.), whereas the user priority weighting allows the user to adjust the weighting associated with each event criteria. The priority weighting can have a range, for example, between one and ten. It is also noted that duplicated weighted priorities may be associated with different event criteria to thus allow the user to indicate that the particular event criteria are equally important.

For instance, in this example the user has indicated that the user priority weighting 1500 associated with the required capacity is to be represented by the value eight. Whereas, in contrast, the event criteria for the balcony has an associated user priority weighting 1520 represented by the value of two. Thus, the user is able to adjust the associated user priority weighting to more accurately represent the importance of the event criteria for the event. Thus, in this example, the maximum number of kilometres that the venue is from the CBD is considered by the user to be much more important compared to the venue providing a podium due to their respective associated user priority weightings. The same formula is used above, except for the user priority weighting for each event criteria being used instead of the user priority. Therefore, in this example, the scores are calculated by the server processing system 20 to be:

V\score = \ ~ x 8 + ^° ²^ x l0 + l x 2 + 0 x l 1 x 8 = 146.18 .1 10 10

V2score = \ — x 8 + '^{1Q 5}* x l0 + l x 2 + l x l 1 x 9 = 120 .150 10

V3score = \ — x 8 + ^^{10 15}^ x l0 + 0 x 2 + l x l 1 x 10 = 13.33 U50 10 J

As can be seen, by allowing the user to adjust the priority weighting for each event criteria, a more accurate assessment of the suitability of each venue, or in general, each supplier, can be determined and presented to the user. As can be seen from the output data 1390 of Figure 4, "Venue 1 " 1360 is ranked #1 in the output data list, followed by "Venue 2" and "Venue 3" ranked #2 and #3 respectively.

Referring now to Figure 16, there is shown an example of a representation of a request 1600 for rating a supplier. In particular, the request 1600 includes a rating interface with a number of rating fields 1630 to allow the user to rate the supplier. Each rating field 1630 has an associated rating mechanism 1620 allowing the user to indicate a rating for the supplier for that rating field 1630. For example, in Figure 16, the user has indicated that the responsiveness of a particular supplier is four out of five. The user can interact with the rating mechanism 1620 using the input device of the client processing system 10. The request 1600 may be for more than one supplier.

Referring now to Figure 17, there is shown a block diagram illustrating an example of a request for rating data. In particular, the server processing system 20 transfers a request for rating 1700 one or more suppliers to the client processing system 10. The user at the client processing system 10 uses the input device to provide the rating data for the one or more suppliers selected to assist in the event. The rating data 1710 is then transferred to the server processing system 20 such that the rating data can be stored by the server processing system 20, which in one form could be stored in data store 30.

The server processing system 20 may use the rating data 1710 by averaging previous rating data with the received rating data to determine a new rating. Then, the server processing system 20 can update the rating for each supplier in the data store 30 with the new rating. Optionally (as indicated by the dotted line), the server processing system 20 may cause an incentive to be transferred to the user. The incentive encourages the user to participate in the rating of the one or more selected suppliers, such that accurate ordered output data is presented in future searches of the data store 30. The incentive may be a reduction in a membership cost to use the services of the system 1, or may be a gift.

In one optional form, a rating filter may be used by the server processing system 20 to isolate and ignore anomaly rating data. For example, the rating filter may determine, using a statistical analysis module whether a particular rating is an anomaly compared to previously received rating data. For example, if a particular received rating data is outside two or three standard deviations of the rating for the supplier, then the particular rating data is at least partially, or fully, ignored and thus not factored into any calculation of the new rating data for the supplier.

Figure 18 illustrates an example of a working checklist 1800 which is made available to a user of the system 1 when one or more suppliers are selected to assist in an event. In this particular instance, the data of the working checklist 1800 is stored in the data store 30 and when the user logs into the system 1 using the identification data, the working checklist 1800 is retrieved for the user after authenticating the user's identification data and returned to the client processing system 10 for display.

The working checklist 1800 includes a list of suppliers 1810 for the event. In this particular example, the event requires a number of supplier categories such as the venue, catering, AV & L (audio, video and lighting), transfers, and invitations. However, the user has only selected two particular suppliers 1820 for each of these supplier categories for the event at this stage of planning the event. Associated with each supplier 1820 is a contact person 1830, e-mail address 1840 for the contact person 1820, an indication as to whether a quote has been received 1850 from the respective supplier 1820, an indication as to whether a deposit has been paid 1860 to the supplier 1820, an indication as to whether the supplier 1810 has confirmed the deposit was received 1870, an indication of the final payment date 1880, and an indication of whether the supplier rating data has been transferred to the server processing system 20.

As can be seen from the checklist 1800, certain fields have not been completed. For example, the caterer of "Great Food Catering" has been selected to assist in this particular event however no quote has been received. As such, the working checklist 1800 indicates that the user is still waiting for a quote to be received from this particular supplier. It will be appreciated that if the user edits the selected supplier, such as altering the selected caterer for the event, the working checklist 1800 automatically updates with the new supplier details. In one optional form, when a modification to the checklist 1800 occurs, an e-mail is sent, by the server processing system 20, to the user's e-mail account notifying the user of the modification to the checklist 1800. In another optional form, when a modification to the checklist 1800 occurs, one or more suppliers for the event may also be e-mailed the modified checklist.

Referring now to Figure 19, there is shown a more detailed block diagram of the system 1. In particular, the system 1 includes an interface 1900 which is generally provided using the output device of the client processing system 10. The user is able to create the planning of an event 1905 and is also able to edit a saved plan for an event 1950 using the interface 1900. When a user creates an event 1905 using the system 1, the user can be required to enter a geographical location which the event is to be held, such that a location filter 1910 reduces the number of possible suppliers which can be used for the event in that geographical location. As previously indicated, the user can provide event details 1915 which are indicative of the event criteria for the event using the system 1. Based on the event criteria, suppliers providing a particular service 1920 can be determined by searching the data store 30. Details regarding the service provided 1925, such the quality of the service, can be provided to the user using the system 1. Contact details 1930 for each supplier can also be provided using the system 1. In one optional form, the user can select a template 1935 (as will be discussed in more detail in relation to Figure 23) such as to determine what type of suppliers are required to plan such an event. The system 1 can also include a guided help module 1940 in the event the user is unsure how to use the system 1. In another optional form, the working checklist can be e-mailed to the user such that the user is made aware of any changes to the planning of the event (ie. a quote has now been provided by a selected supplier).

Referring now to Figure 20, there is shown another more detailed example of the system 1. In particular, the user 2000 interacts with the system 1 using the interface 1900. The user 2000 provides a password 2010 using the interface 1900, and is authenticated to use the system 1. If the user cannot remember a password, the user is directed to a password obtaining module 2005, where the user is asked specific questions (ie. Mother's maiden name) to determine the identity of the user, and if a successful authentication, the password is e-mailed to the user's e-mail account.

The user can indicate a type of service 2015 (ie supplier) which they require for the event by transferring the event criteria to the server processing system 20. The geographical location 2020 of the event can also be used to narrow the possible number of suppliers which are searched using the event criteria. Different types of suppliers are displayed to using the system 1. For example, the system 1 may provide details about a venue 2025. Details about each supplier may also be obtained using the system 1. For example, a particular service 2030 may indicate that travel 2035, catering 2045 and AV & L are provided by the particular supplier. Furthermore, available variations on a particular service (ie standard catering 2050 or styles of catering 2055) can be displayed using the system 1. Figure 21 provides a more detailed overview of the actions which the user can perform using an example of the system 1. In particular, the user 200 can obtain access to suppliers for a particular event. The suppliers can be determined using a geographical location of a user, however, this is not essential. The suppliers which the system 1 can provide information regarding state, national or international suppliers. The user is able to access account details using the system 1 (ie. the number of months of membership remaining to access information from the system 1). Also, the user can access the user details (ie. address of the user) using the system 1.

Referring now to Figure 22, there is shown an overview of actions which a supplier (supplier) can perform using an example of the system 1. In particular, the supplier can access the supplier account 2210 using the system 1. Access to the supplier account may be restricted using an identification system such as a supplier name and password. The supplier can access account details of the supplier to the system 1. For example, the supplier can determine from the account details how much membership the supplier has remaining with the system 1. The supplier can access the listing 2220 of the supplier stored in the data store 30. Thus, the listing 2220 can include information regarding the supplier (ie. if the supplier is providing a venue, the information may include the capacity of the venue). The supplier can also access media request data using the system 1 such as a virtual tour of the venue. The listing 2220 can be updated by the supplier using the system 1.

Referring now to Figure 23, there is shown a block diagram representing the use of a template 2300 in an example of the system 1. In particular, the selection of a template 2300 by a user allows the system 1 to suggest supplier categories to assist in the event. Thus, in one example, the template which the user selects may be indicative of a black tie dinner.

Thus, the server processing system 20 can determine supplier categories (venue, MC, catering) which are generally required to run such an event. Input data indicative of the selected template and event criteria is then transferred from the client processing system 10 to the server processing system 20. In response, the server processing system 20 searches for suppliers of the relevant supplier categories, and then performs a search for suppliers in the supplier categories which at least partially satisfy the criteria for the event. The output data transferred to the server processing system 20 is indicative of suppliers for each supplier category of the selected template for the event.

Optionally, the selected template may be transferred initially to the server processing system 20, and in response the server processing system 20 transfers an interface for each supplier category requesting event criteria for each supplier category. Subsequently, output data indicative of the one or more suppliers for each supplier category of the template is transferred to the client processing system 10 and presented to the user.

For example, one particular supplier category may be a venue. Thus, a venue criteria interface is transferred to the client processing system 10, similar to the interface 1300 depicted in Figure 13, requesting that the user input event criteria for the venue. The venue interface may require the user to indicate the number of attendees for the event. The input data indicative of the venue criteria is then transferred to the server processing system 20 such that a search can be performed to determine output data indicative of appropriate suppliers of a venue for the type of event indicated by the template. Therefore, in one example, the output data 1390 of Figure 13 may be transferred to the client processing system 10 and displayed to the user, such that the user can select the venue for the event.

The provision of the template allows the user to be guided through the process of planning an event. In some cases, the user may not be aware that particular suppliers should be sought when planning a particular type of event (ie. an MC should be provided for a black tie dinner), and as such the selection of a template allows the user to be guided through the process of determining suppliers which can assist in such an event.

In another form of the template, the template may include an interface which includes general event types which the user can select to indicate the type of event to be held. For example, the interface may include a "pull-down" menu which allows the user to indicate the event type of a "Client Event", "Product Event", or "Staff Event". Input data indicative of the event criteria and the event type is transferred to the server processing system 20, wherein output data indicative of supplier categories specific for the event type can be returned to the client processing system 10 with a list of appropriate suppliers for each supplier category for the type of event.

In one option, if the event criteria provided by the user is greater than or equal to a predetermined limit, then the system 1 performs a search for one or more suitable event managers to help manage the event according to the event criteria provided by the user. In one form, the predetermined limit can be two-hundred and fifty attendees.

The above methods can be implemented as software executed in a processing system. In this form the software may be provided as a computer readable medium of instructions or a computer program product which can be executed in the processing system. Additionally or alternatively, the methods can be implemented via hardware.

In another optional form, instead of ranking the suppliers of the output data, the rating or score may simply be presented to the user, wherein the rating or score is indicative of the suitability of the supplier based on the event criteria provided by the user.

In another optional form, the output data is indicative of the score for each supplier. The client processing system 10 can then present the output data including the various scores for each supplier to the user.

In a further optional form, the scoring formula may be adjusted. The scoring formula may be adjusted at the server processing system 20. Additionally or alternatively, the scoring formula may be adjusted by the user at the client processing system. In one optional form, the user may submit an entirely new scoring formula to be used for the respective user. Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features, and wherein specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

Although a preferred embodiment has been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

The claims:

1. A method of allowing a user to determine a supplier for assisting in an event, wherein the method includes, in a server processing system: receiving, from a client processing system, input data provided by the user, wherein the input data is indicative of criteria for the event; generating output data by performing a search, using the criteria of the event, of a data store, wherein the output data is indicative one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy the criteria of the event; and providing the output data to the user, thereby allowing the user to select the supplier from the output data.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method includes: receiving, from the client processing system, the input data further indicative of a selected template for the event, wherein the selected template is indicative of one or more supplier categories for the event; and transferring to the client processing system, the output data indicative of the one or more suppliers for one or more supplier categories for the selected template..

3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes, prior to providing the output data to the user: determining a rating for each supplier; and ordering the plurality of suppliers represented by the output data according to each respective rating, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: receiving the input data from the client processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event; and ordering the plurality of suppliers represented by the output data according to each priority associated with the at least some of the criteria of the event, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: receiving the input data from the client processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a weighted priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event; and ordering the plurality of suppliers represented by the output data according to each respective weighted priority, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

6. The method according to claim 3, wherein the method includes: receiving, from the client processing system, selection data indicative of a selected supplier to assist in the event.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the method includes: receiving, from the client processing system, rating data indicative of the user's satisfaction with the selected supplier assisting in the event; determining a new rating for the selected supplier; and updating the rating of the selected supplier with the new rating.

8. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: determining a rating for each supplier ; and receiving the input data from the client processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event; determining a score for each supplier using a scoring formula, wherein the score for each supplier is determined according to the rating for each supplier and each priority associated with the at least some of the criteria of the event; and ordering the plurality of suppliers represented by the output data according to each score, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

9. A server processing system to allow a user to determine a supplier for assisting in an event, wherein the server processing system is configured to: receive, from a client processing system, input data provided by the user, wherein the input data is indicative of criteria for the event; generate output data by performing a search, using the criteria of the event, of a data store, wherein the output data is indicative of one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy the criteria of the event; and provide the output data to the user, thereby allowing the user to select the supplier from the output data.

10. The server processing system of claim 9, wherein the server processing system performs any one of the methods claimed in claims 1 to 8.

11. A method of determining a supplier for assisting in an event, wherein the method includes, in a client processing system: transferring, to a server processing system, input data provided by a user, wherein the input data is indicative of criteria for the event; receiving output data indicative of one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy a search of an event database using the criteria of the event; and providing the output data to the user, thereby allowing the user to select the supplier from the output data.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the method includes: transferring, to the server processing system, the input data which is further indicative of a selected template for the event, wherein the selected template is indicative of one or more supplier categories for the event; and receiving from the server processing system, the output data indicative of the one or more suppliers for one or more supplier categories for the selected template.

13. The method of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes, prior to providing the output data to the user: receiving the output data from the server processing system, wherein the plurality of suppliers have been ordered according to a rating associated with at least some of the suppliers, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner. ^"

14. The method of any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein in the event that the output data is indicative a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: transferring the input data to the server processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event by the user; and receiving the output data, wherein the plurality of suppliers have been ordered according to each priority for each criteria of the event, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: transferring the input data to the server processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a weighted priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event; and receiving the output data, wherein the suppliers have been ordered according to each weighted priority for each criteria of the event, such that one or more suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the method includes: transferring, to the server processing system, selection data indicative of a selected supplier to assist in the event.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the method includes: transferring, to the server processing system, rating data indicative of the user's satisfaction with the selected supplier assisting in the event, wherein a new rating is determined for the selected supplier using the rating data and the rating of the selected supplier is updated with the new rating.

18. The method according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein in the event that the output data is indicative of a plurality of suppliers, the method includes: transferring the input data to the server processing system, wherein the input data is further indicative of a priority associated with at least some of the criteria of the event, wherein a score is determined for each supplier using a scoring formula, wherein the score for each supplier is determined according to a rating for the supplier and each priority associated with the at least some of the criteria of the event; and receiving the output data, wherein the plurality of suppliers represented by the output data are ordered according to each score, such that the plurality of suppliers are provided to the user in an ordered manner.

19. A client processing system to determine a supplier for assisting in an event, wherein the client processing system is configured to: transfer, to a server processing system, input data provided by a user, wherein the input data is indicative of criteria for the event; receive, from the server processing system, output data indicative of one or more suppliers which at least partially satisfy a search of a data store using the criteria of the event; and provide the output data to the user, thereby allowing the user to select the supplier from the output data.

20. The client processing system of claim 19, wherein the client processing system performs any one of the methods claimed in claims 11 to 18.