WO2016123375A1

WO2016123375A1 - System, method, and apparatus for providing a collaborative social network

Info

Publication number: WO2016123375A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/015417
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nathan MCNEILL
Original assignee: Mcneill Nathan
Priority date: 2015-01-30
Filing date: 2016-01-28
Publication date: 2016-08-04

Abstract

An approach is provided for a collaborative social network. A collaborative social network platform receives a request to create a collaborative profile for a user, wherein the collaborative profile is presented on a social network. The collaborative social network platform determines one or more peer users associated with the user. The collaborative social network platform then presents a user interface for access by the one or more peer users, wherein the user interface provides one or more user interface elements for the one or more peer users to provide content for the collaborative profile. The collaborative social network platform then aggregates the content provided by the one or more users via the user interface in the collaborative profile.

Description

SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FOR

PROVIDING A COLLABORATIVE SOCIAL NETWORK

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority benefit to United States Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/109,860, entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Providing a Collaborative Social Network", filed January 30, 2015, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Services and applications for creating social networks (e.g., professional networks, business networks, personal networks, etc.) have enjoyed widespread use and popularity. In particular, the communal aspect of social networks has been a significant factor in driving this popularity. However, social network services have generally crowdsourced the problem of building the structure of the network (e.g., who is connected to whom and how), but the content of the network is still largely proprietary (e.g., the content is owned and authored by discrete nodes of the network). In other words, the networks of social networks is often viewed as communal, but the content is viewed as individual. Accordingly, service providers face significant technical challenges to extending the communal or collaborative aspects of a social network to the content provided in social networks (e.g., profiles, resumes, etc.).

SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a collaborative or communal approach to providing content information over relationship networks (e.g., social networks) that reduces the burden on individual users for generating such information while also increasing its reliability.

[0004] According to one embodiment, a method comprises receiving a request to create a collaborative profile for a user, wherein the collaborative profile is presented on a social network. The method also comprises determining one or more peer users associated with the user. The method further comprises presenting a user interface for access by the one or more peer users, wherein the user interface provides one or more user interface elements for the one or more peer users to provide content for the collaborative profile. The method further comprising aggregating the content provided by the one or more peer users via the user interface in the collaborative profile.

[0005] According to another embodiment, an apparatus comprises at least one processor, and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause, at least in part, the apparatus to receive a request to create a collaborative profile for a user, wherein the collaborative profile is presented on a social network. The apparatus is also caused to determine one or more peer users associated with the user. The apparatus is further caused to present a user interface for access by the one or more peer users, wherein the user interface provides one or more user interface elements for the one or more peer users to provide content for the collaborative profile. The apparatus is further caused to aggregate the content provided by the one or more users via the user interface in the collaborative profile.

[0006] According to another embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium carries one or more sequences of one or more instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause, at least in part, an apparatus to receive a request to create a collaborative profile for a user, wherein the collaborative profile is presented on a social network. The apparatus is also caused to determine one or more peer users associated with the user. The apparatus is further caused to present a user interface for access by the one or more peer users, wherein the user interface provides one or more user interface elements for the one or more peer users to provide content for the collaborative profile. The apparatus is further caused to aggregate the content provided by the one or more users via the user interface in the collaborative profile.

[0007] According to another embodiment, a system comprises a collaborative social network platform configured to receive a request to create a collaborative profile for a user, wherein the collaborative profile is presented on a social network. The collaborative social network platform is also configured to determine one or more peer users associated with the user. The collaborative social network platform is further configured to present a user interface for access by the one or more peer users, wherein the user interface provides one or more user interface elements for the one or more peer users to provide content for the collaborative profile. The apparatus is further caused to aggregate the content provided by the one or more users via the user interface in the collaborative profile.

[0008] According to another embodiment, an apparatus comprises means for receiving a request to create a collaborative profile for a user, wherein the collaborative profile is presented on a social network. The apparatus also comprises means for determining one or more peer users associated with the user. The apparatus further comprises means for presenting a user interface for access by the one or more peer users, wherein the user interface provides one or more user interface elements for the one or more peer users to provide content for the collaborative profile. The apparatus further comprises means for aggregating the content provided by the one or more users via the user interface in the collaborative profile.

[0009] In addition, for various example embodiments of the invention, the following is applicable: a method comprising facilitating a processing of and/or processing (1) data and/or (2) information and/or (3) at least one signal, the (1) data and/or (2) information and/or (3) at least one signal based, at least in part, on (including derived at least in part from) any one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention.

[0010] For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is also applicable: a method comprising facilitating access to at least one interface configured to allow access to at least one service, the at least one service configured to perform any one or any combination of network or service provider methods (or processes) disclosed in this application.

[0011] For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is also applicable: a method comprising facilitating creating and/or facilitating modifying (1) at least one device user interface element and/or (2) at least one device user interface functionality, the (1) at least one device user interface element and/or (2) at least one device user interface functionality based, at least in part, on data and/or information resulting from one or any combination of methods or processes disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention, and/or at least one signal resulting from one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention.

[0012] For various example embodiments of the invention, the following is also applicable: a method comprising creating and/or modifying (1) at least one device user interface element and/or (2) at least one device user interface functionality, the (1) at least one device user interface element and/or (2) at least one device user interface functionality based at least in part on data and/or information resulting from one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention, and/or at least one signal resulting from one or any combination of methods (or processes) disclosed in this application as relevant to any embodiment of the invention.

[0013] In various example embodiments, the methods (or processes) can be accomplished on the service provider side or on the mobile device side or in any shared way between service provider and mobile device with actions being performed on both sides.

[0014] For various example embodiments, the following is applicable: An apparatus comprising means for performing the method of any of the claims.

[0015] Still other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention are readily apparent from the following detailed description, simply by illustrating a number of particular embodiments and implementations, including the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. The invention is also capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details can be modified in various obvious respects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings:

[0017] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system capable providing a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment;

[0018] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a process for inviting new connections to a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a process for rating the quality of connections and for assigning privileges to the connections, according to one embodiment; [0020] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a process for a connection to invite other connections to a collaborative networks, according to one embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a process for editing information posted a profile in a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment;

[0022] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a process for editing historical experience information posted to a profile in a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 7 is a diagram of a process for adding and rating skill information posted to a profile in a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment;

[0024] FIG. 8 is a diagram of a process for adding and rating connections of a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment;

[0025] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a process for calculating a profile quality score and weighing contributed ratings information, according one embodiment;

[0026] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a workflow for providing a collaborative social network, according to one embodiment;

[0027] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process for creating a collaborative profile, according to one embodiment;

[0028] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a process for presenting a quality score for a collaborative profile based on relationship information, according to one embodiment;

[0029] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a process for including or excluding peers in a collaborative social network based on relationship information, according to one embodiment;

[0030] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a process for weighting peer input for editing a collaborative profile, according to one embodiment;

[0031] FIGs. 15A-15F are diagrams of user interfaces used in the processes for proving a collaborative social network, according to various embodiments;

[0032] FIG. 16 is a diagram of a computer system for implementing various exemplary embodiments; and

[0033] FIG. 17 is a diagram of a chip set for implementing an embodiment of the invention. DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODFMENTS

[0034] A preferred method, apparatus and system for providing a collaborative relationship network are herein described. In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the preferred embodiments of the invention. It is apparent, however, that the preferred embodiments may be practiced without these specific details or with an equivalent arrangement. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0035] In one embodiment, as used herein, the term "collaborative relationship network" refers to any network of users for which relationships among the users can be identified or designated. Moreover, the term "collaborative" refers to a capability of the relationship network to enable participating users to contribute content about other users such as collaborative content for creating user profiles for users of the network. An example of a relationship network is a social network. Although various exemplary embodiments are described with respect to a collaborative relationship network (e.g., a collaborative social network) in a professional or business context, it is contemplated that these embodiments have applicability to any other type of social network including, but not limited to, personal social networks, academic social networks, organization-specific social networks, etc. In addition, although various embodiments are described with respect to a web application based implementation to the system 100, it is contemplated that the system 100 may be implemented using any means including, but not limited to, native applications, client-server based implementations, peer-to-peer based implementations, embedded applications, and/or the like.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system capable providing a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment. As noted above, current social networks have historically made the process of creating network connections communal, but the process for creating content in social networks has remained largely individual. For example, individual users create and post content that is then shared over the social network with their connections. On the other hand, wikis (e.g., websites that allow collaborative modification of their content) and the open source movement view content as communal, but do not operate within fixed network structures: For instance, a wiki-author's relationship to other authors generally does not affect the author's ability to create content. Instead, the author's activity in creating content bolsters the author's credibility. In other words, in both current social networking and open source content services, content (e.g., articles, profiles, updates, resumes, etc.) and network (e.g., structure of relationships or connections) are viewed as separate.

[0037] To address this shortcoming, a system 100 of FIG. 1 introduces a collaborative social network platform 101 that leverages the structure of a social network to contain or validate the content of the social network. By way of example, the system 100 uses the structure of a network to determine which users within that network is able to provide content for collaborative content. In the context of a business social network, for instance, a supervise or direct co-worker may be able to provide collaborative content, while content provided by users with no connections to a profile or content owner would not be allowed or otherwise limited.

[0038] In an example use case of a creating a professional social network, the collaborative social network platform 101 enables peer users to work collaboratively on a user's profile or content (e.g., a professional resume) using, for instance, a wiki editor or other similar application. The result is an amalgamation of multiple perspectives about a user or profile owner 201 's professional work, skills, etc. which typically are in constant motion. By using the underlying relationship structure of social networks, the collaborative social network platform 101 enables a profile/content owner to choose which peer users are able to contribute or modify content. In one embodiment, because only the structure need to be known, contributing users can still remain anonymous. The profile owner would only know that contributors have satisfied or meet any underlying relationship requirements (e.g., must have a professional relationship within a predetermined degree or closeness or rating from other peer users).

[0039] In one embodiment, the system 100 provides a wiki -based web application (e.g., presented by the collaborative social network platform 101) which enables a user's peers to create and/or edit the content of the person's social network profile (e.g., professional resume and business network). By way of example, through the collaborative social network platform 101, every member of a user's or a person's professional circle (not just the person herself) contributes content and/or ratings on the person's profile (e.g., work performance and professional relationships when implemented in the context of a professional or business network). In one embodiment, a user' network profile created through this collaborative effort is called a collaborative profile, and contributions to this profile is validated by the underlying relationship structure (e.g., ratings or content provided by users within the person's circle is more highly valued or validated than unrelated users).

[0040] As shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 includes one or more user equipment 103 a- 103 m (also collectively referred to as UEs 103) with connectivity to the collaborative social network platform 101. In one embodiment, within the collaborative social network platform 101, a person's peers (or connections within the social network) write the person's profile (e.g., professional biography and career history for professional/business networks). For example, in a business context, the connections or peers also populate the person's work history with past positions along with describing the person's responsibilities and accomplishments in these positions. In one embodiment, the UEs 103 may respectively execute one or more collaborative social network applications 105a- 105m (also collectively referred to as collaborative social network applications 105) to access one or more functions of the collaborative social network platform 101 or the collaborative social network application (e.g., a web-based application) provided by the platform 101. By way of example, the collaborative social network applications 105 can be native social network applications or Internet browser-based applications used for accessing web-based implementations of the collaborative social network user interface provided by the collaborative social network platform 101.

[0041] In one embodiment, in addition to writing content describing the person's profile (e.g., the professional's work and capabilities), the group of peer users or connections comprising the person's social network (e.g., business network) adds and/or ranks skills which the person (e.g., a user associated with a collaborative profile) excels in. For instance, a peer could add "Payroll" to a person's skill set and give the skill a rating which describes how advanced the professional is in the skill. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform or application would then sort the listing of skills populated and rated by one's peers so that the highest rated skills are moved to the top of the list. In one embodiment, each member of the person's social or business network would be able to rate the person's skills and the skill would display, for instance, an average rating.

[0042] In one embodiment, the person's social network created in the collaborative social network platform 101 (e.g., a professional's business network) would not be flat or one- dimensional, but comprised of various layers of relationships. For example, in a business context, the layers of relationships can start with those who work (or have worked) most closely with the person. In one embodiment, members or connections of the network would be able to rate the relationship level of other members so that (e.g., over time) a more accurate and dimensional picture of a person's social network (e.g., business network) would be formed. For instance, other members would be able to rate whether Joe Smith was a close collaborator or a business acquaintance of the professional. In one embodiment, in addition to relationship level, other relationship factors may also be rated such as boss, subordinate, contractor, customer, etc.

[0043] In one embodiment, the content categories found in a person's profile (e.g., biography, work history, skills, network, etc.) are editable. For example, when implemented as a web application, the user interface for the collaborative social network platform can be editable inline on the web-based user interface (e.g., via WYSIWYG editors). In one embodiment, each section is individually editable to facilitate more and more frequent contributions. In addition, members of the person's or professional's network can send specific requests to other network members or connections to update discreet sections of the person's profile.

[0044] In one embodiment, the entire profile is visible only to members of the person's social network (e.g., business network). In one embodiment, the public profile view (visible to all visitors of a public facing web portal) consists only of a public portion of the profile (e.g., work history without descriptive content and perhaps top skills).

[0045] In one embodiment, in order to contribute to a person's or professional's profile, a member is invited into the network by another member or by the person himself. In one embodiment, the professional approves all additions to his network. In one embodiment, if a sufficient number of network members claim that a member does not actually have a relationship with the person or professional, then that member is removed from the person's social network (e.g., business network).

[0046] In one embodiment, profiles in the collaborative social network platform are rated with a quality score. In one embodiment, this score is made up of the relationship rating given to individual profile contributors by other members of the professional's network. For instance, a profile with contributions from many close business relationships in the person's network would have a higher quality score than one with contributions only from acquaintances. In this way, both the number of contributors as well as the credibility of contributors is reflected in the quality score.

[0047] In one embodiment, the relationship rating assigned to a member by other members of the person's network corresponds to a certain number. For example, closer relationships (e.g., working relationships) correspond to higher numbers which (if the relationship is also a profile contributor) are reflected in the profile's quality score. In addition, other relational dynamics (boss, subordinate, contractor, customer, etc.) also affect the member's relationship rating. In one embodiment, a contributor's relationship rating is different for every member of his or her network. In each case, the rating is a weighted average of the ratings of other members of the business network of each professional. For instance, the members of Tom's network may rate the relationship between Tom and Jane a 4 out of 5, but the members of Bill's network may rate Jane's relationship with Bill a 2 out of 5. In one embodiment, a rating of a member by members of one network respecting one person or professional does not affect the member's rating in another network regarding a different person or professional. In this way, a contributor's rating and the rating's contribution to a profile's quality score is completely contextual from one profile to another even if the same member is a contributor to both.

[0048] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform uses an algorithm in which the relationship rating of the person's or professional's network members reflects the quality and/or reliability of profile content, skills, and/or even other relationships. A contributor with a higher relationship rating would, for instance, have a greater weight when rating a person's skills. Additionally, in one embodiment, the algorithm takes into account network factors such as the degree of overlap between the network of the person and a contributor when assigning the contributor a number

[0049] In one embodiment, the numerical value of relationship categories is determined by all users of the collaborative social network platform regardless of which profile they are contributors to. For instance, the community of users may determine that the numerical value of 10 is an appropriate weight for a close relationship and the numerical value of 1 is an appropriate value for a business acquaintance. In this way, the entire community of users contributes to the task of choosing a numerical approximation for abstract relational levels. [0050] In one use case (e.g., in the context of a professional or business network), human resources (HR) departments or other similar organizations can, e.g., through subscriptions to the collaborative social network platform, request permission from job candidates to poll the candidate's business network in the collaborative social network platform. By way of example, with the HR interface to the collaborative social network platform, the HR department can select what level of relationships it would like to poll and what questions it would like to ask. The candidate would then send out the HR department's poll and ask his or her network members to provide anonymous answers back to the HR department. In this way, the HR department or a hiring manager is able to gather broad anonymous feedback about a potential employee from the candidate's current and past peers or connections.

[0051] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform includes other functionality for HR departments such as the ability to contact candidates outside the HR member's network and perform advanced searches of data not accessible to the public (such as bio and business network information).

[0052] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the polling and other functions described within an HR context may be implemented in any context where a person's peers or connections are to be asked a question or provide feedback.

[0053] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform can provide access to users to perform advanced searches or functions based on a subscription status of the accessing user. For example, a user may subscribe to premium services that enable a user to send messages to other members who are outside of the user's network.

[0054] In one embodiment, the UEs 103 having connectivity to the collaborative social network platform 101 via a communication network 107. The UEs 103 also have connectivity to a service platform 109 that includes one or more services l l la-l l lm (also collectivity referred to as services 111) for providing other social network services and/or other services that support the collaborative social network platform 101 (e.g., mapping, navigation, content, images, etc. services). In one embodiment, the service platform 109 and/or services 111 interact with one or more content providers 113a-l 13k (also collectively referred to as content providers 113) to provide business/professional information and/or other related information to the collaborative social network platform 101. [0055] By way of example, the communication network 107 of system 100 includes one or more networks such as a data network, a wireless network, a telephony network, or any combination thereof. It is contemplated that the data network may be any local area network (LAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), wide area network (WAN), a public data network (e.g., the Internet), short range wireless network, or any other suitable packet-switched network, such as a commercially owned, proprietary packet-switched network, e.g., a proprietary cable or fiber-optic network, and the like, or any combination thereof. In addition, the wireless network may be, for example, a cellular network and may employ various technologies including enhanced data rates for global evolution (EDGE), general packet radio service (GPRS), global system for mobile communications (GSM), Internet protocol multimedia subsystem (IMS), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), etc., as well as any other suitable wireless medium, e.g., worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks, code division multiple access (CDMA), wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), wireless fidelity (WiFi), wireless LAN (WLAN), Bluetooth®, Internet Protocol (IP) data casting, satellite, mobile ad-hoc network (MANET), and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0056] The UEs 103 are any type of mobile terminal, fixed terminal, or portable terminal including a navigation unit (e.g., in-vehicle or standalone), a mobile handset, station, unit, device, multimedia computer, multimedia tablet, Internet node, communicator, desktop computer, laptop computer, notebook computer, netbook computer, tablet computer, personal communication system (PCS) device, personal navigation device, personal digital assistants (PDAs), audio/video player, digital camera/camcorder, positioning device, television receiver, radio broadcast receiver, electronic book device, game device, or any combination thereof, including the accessories and peripherals of these devices, or any combination thereof. It is also contemplated that the UEs 103 can support any type of interface to the user (such as "wearable" circuitry, etc.).

[0057] By way of example, the UEs 103, the collaborative social network platform 101, and the collaborative social network application 105 communicate with each other and other components of the communication network 107 using well known, new or still developing protocols. In this context, a protocol includes a set of rules defining how the network nodes within the communication network 107 interact with each other based on information sent over the communication links. The protocols are effective at different layers of operation within each node, from generating and receiving physical signals of various types, to selecting a link for transferring those signals, to the format of information indicated by those signals, to identifying which software application executing on a computer system sends or receives the information. The conceptually different layers of protocols for exchanging information over a network are described in the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Reference Model.

[0058] Communications between the network nodes are typically effected by exchanging discrete packets of data. Each packet typically comprises (1) header information associated with a particular protocol, and (2) payload information that follows the header information and contains information that may be processed independently of that particular protocol. In some protocols, the packet includes (3) trailer information following the payload and indicating the end of the payload information. The header includes information such as the source of the packet, its destination, the length of the payload, and other properties used by the protocol. Often, the data in the payload for the particular protocol includes a header and payload for a different protocol associated with a different, higher layer of the OSI Reference Model. The header for a particular protocol typically indicates a type for the next protocol contained in its payload. The higher layer protocol is said to be encapsulated in the lower layer protocol. The headers included in a packet traversing multiple heterogeneous networks, such as the Internet, typically include a physical (layer 1) header, a data-link (layer 2) header, an internetwork (layer 3) header and a transport (layer 4) header, and various application (layer 5, layer 6 and layer 7) headers as defined by the OSI Reference Model.

[0059] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network application 105 and the collaborative social network platform 101 interact according to a client-server model. It is noted that the client-server model of computer process interaction is widely known and used. According to the client-server model, a client process sends a message including a request to a server process, and the server process responds by providing a service. The server process may also return a message with a response to the client process. Often the client process and server process execute on different computer devices, called hosts, and communicate via a network using one or more protocols for network communications. The term "server" is conventionally used to refer to the process that provides the service, or the host computer on which the process operates. Similarly, the term "client" is conventionally used to refer to the process that makes the request, or the host computer on which the process operates. As used herein, the terms "client" and "server" refer to the processes, rather than the host computers, unless otherwise clear from the context. In addition, the process performed by a server can be broken up to run as multiple processes on multiple hosts (sometimes called tiers) for reasons that include reliability, scalability, and redundancy, among others.

[0060] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a process for inviting new connections to a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process of FIG. 2 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 17. In addition or alternatively, the collaborative social network application 105 can perform all or a portion of the process of FIG. 2.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 2, a profile owner 201 invites (e.g., via an invitation 203) new connections 205 to join his or her social network (e.g., a professional network). In one embodiment, the connections 205 can be invited from within the collaborative social network platform 101 or via an external communications means (e.g., by email). This process enables the profile owner 201 to invite a sufficient number of connections 205 to complete his or her profile. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 and/or the profile owner 201 may specify a minimum number of connections 205 that are to join the profile owner 201 's network before the collaborative profile building process is initiated.

[0062] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a process for rating the quality of connections 205 and for assigning privileges to the connections 205, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process of FIG. 3 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 17. In addition or alternatively, the collaborative social network application 105 can perform all or a portion of the process of FIG. 3.

[0063] More specifically, FIG. 3 illustrates the ability of the profile owner 201 to rate the quality of his or her connections 205 and assign connections 205 the privilege of becoming a contributor 301 to the profile owner 201 's profile content. In one embodiment, connections 205 which have been given the privilege of contributor 301 can rate other connections 205, but cannot change connections 205 's privilege levels. This gives the profile owner 201 control over who he or she is connected to and what privileges they have to contribute content to his or her profile.

[0064] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a process for a connection to invite other connections to a collaborative networks, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process of FIG. 4 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 17. In addition or alternatively, the collaborative social network application 105 can perform all or a portion of the process of FIG. 4.

[0065] More specifically, FIG. 4 illustrates a process by which a connection 205 which has been given the privilege of contributor 301 can invite other connections 205 to the profile owner 201 's professional network. In one embodiment, new connections 205 are approved by the profile owner 201. In another embodiment, the profile owner 201 may grant a privilege to the connection 205 to enable the connection 205 to invite and/or approve other connections 205 on the profile owner 201 's behalf. In one embodiment, the privilege to send an invitation 203 may be contingent on one or more criteria. For example, connections 205 who are not contributors 301 cannot invite other connections 205. By way of example, this process enables contributors 301 to assist in growing the profile owner 201 's network by suggesting new connections 205.

[0066] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a process for editing information posted a profile in a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process of FIG. 5 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 17. In addition or alternatively, the collaborative social network application 105 can perform all or a portion of the process of FIG. 5.

[0067] As shown, FIG. 5 illustrates the process by which the profile owner 201 's business bio 501 is edited. In this process, the profile owner 201 and any contributors 301 he has designated can add and edit bio 501 text content using, for instance, a wiki editor. In one embodiment, the system 100 notifies all contributors 301 to the content when additions and edits are made by other users. In another embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 can also calculate and/or present a quality score 505 associated with the contributor 301 and/or the content provided the contributor 301 as part of the notification. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 employs an algorithm 503 that uses the number and quality of contributors 301 to profile content to create a quality score 505 for each profile.

[0068] In one embodiment, contributors 301 receiving the notification of the edited content or information can vote or otherwise indicate whether the edited content is accurate, reliable, appropriate, etc. The collaborative social network platform 101, for instance, can hold, delete, seek approval, etc. for content or information that is indicated as not accurate, reliable, appropriate, etc.

[0069] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a process for editing historical experience information posted to a profile in a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process of FIG. 6 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 17. In addition or alternatively, the collaborative social network application 105 can perform all or a portion of the process of FIG. 6.

[0070] As shown, FIG. 6 illustrates a process by which the profile owner 201 's profile career history 601 of past positions is edited. In this process, the profile owner 201 and any contributors 301 he has designated can add and edit the profile career history 601 position text content using a wiki editor. Similar to the process of FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the system notifies all contributors 301 to the content when additions and edits are made by other users. In another embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 can also calculate and/or present a quality score 505 associated with the contributor 301 and/or the content provided the contributor as part of the notification. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 employs an algorithm 603 that uses the number and quality of contributors 301 to profile content to create a quality score 605 for each profile.

[0071] In one embodiment, contributors 301 receiving the notification of the edited content or information can vote or otherwise indicate whether the edited content is accurate, reliable, appropriate, etc. The collaborative social network platform 101, for instance, can hold, delete, seek approval, etc. for content or information that is indicated as not accurate, reliable, appropriate, etc. [0072] FIG. 7 is a diagram of a process for adding and rating skill information posted to a profile in a collaborative relationship network, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process of FIG. 7 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 17. In addition or alternatively, the collaborative social network application 105 can perform all or a portion of the process of FIG. 7.

[0073] As shown, FIG. 7 illustrates a process by which the profile owner 201 's skills 701 may be added and rated. In this process, the profile owner 201 and any contributors 301 he has designated can add and rate the profile owner 201 's skills 701. In one embodiment, the weight of each contributor 301 's rating is determined by the contributor 301 's relationship rating with the profile owner 201.

[0074] As with the processes above, the system notifies all contributors 301 to the content when additions, edits, and ratings are made by other users. In another embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 can also calculate and/or present a quality score 705 associated with the contributor 301 and/or the content or rating provided the contributor 301 as part of the notification. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 employs an algorithm 703 that uses the number and quality of contributors 301 to profile content to create a quality score 705 for each profile.

[0075] In one embodiment, contributors 301 receiving the notification of the edited content or rating can vote or otherwise indicate whether the edited content is accurate, reliable, appropriate, etc. The collaborative social network platform 101, for instance, can hold, delete, seek approval, etc. for content or rating that is indicated as not accurate, reliable, appropriate, etc.

[0076] FIG. 8 is a diagram of a process for adding and rating connections 205 of a collaborative relationship network 801, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process of FIG. 8 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 17. In addition or alternatively, the collaborative social network application 105 can perform all or a portion of the process of FIG. 8.

[0077] As shown, FIG. 8 illustrates a process by which the profile owner 201 's network 801 of connections 205 (e.g., professional Connections) is added and rated. In this process, the profile owner 201 and any contributors 301 he has designated can add and rate other connections 205. In one embodiment, the rating can be weighted based on the connection 205 's level of relationship with the profile owner 201. In other words, the weight 803 of each contributor 301 's rating is determined by the contributor 301 's relationship rating with the profile owner 201.

[0078] In one embodiment, the system notifies all contributors 301 to the network content when additions and ratings are made by other users. In this way, all designated contributors 301 within the profile owner 201 's professional network take part in adding and rating other members of the network, creating a multi-level professional network.

[0079] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 can also calculate and/or present a quality score associated with the contributor 301 and/or the content or rating provided the contributor 301 as part of the notification. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 employs an algorithm 805 that uses the number and quality of contributors 301 to profile content to create a quality score 807 for each profile.

[0080] In one embodiment, contributors 301 receiving the notification of the edited content or rating can vote or otherwise indicate whether the edited content is accurate, reliable, appropriate, etc. The collaborative social network platform 101, for instance, can hold, delete, seek approval, etc. for content or rating that is indicated as not accurate, reliable, appropriate, etc.

[0081] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a process for calculating a profile quality score 901 and weighing contributed ratings information, according one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process of FIG. 9 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 17. In addition or alternatively, the collaborative social network application 105 can perform all or a portion of the process of FIG. 9.

[0082] As shown, FIG. 9 illustrates a process by which the system takes data received through profile owner (e.g., profile owner ratings 903) and contributor ratings 905 as well as other professional network attributes 907 such as number of shared connections and uses an algorithm 909 to assign each contributor 301 a numerical value. In one embodiment, this value is used by the system to create the profile owner 201 's profile quality score 901 and weight the contributor 301 's skill ratings 907 and and other connection ratings 909. [0083] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a workflow for providing a collaborative social network, according to one embodiment. The example of FIG. 10 is described with respect to a business or professional network. In process 1001 of the workflow, the profile owner 201 creates a profile on the collaborative social network by adding basic data such as name and employer. The profile owner 201 may add content to his or her profile such as text for bio 501 and work history 1003. He or she may also add and rate skills 1007. The profile owner 201 may also add connections 205 by finding connections 205 who already have established profiles or by inviting connections 205 to join the collaborative social network (e.g., via email). The profile owner 201 can designate some or all of the connections 205 as contributors 301, who are able to contribute to the profile owner 201 's profile.

[0084] In process 1005, once a connection 205 has been designated as a contributor 301 by the profile owner 201, the contributor 301 can add content to the profile owner 201 's profile. This content can be text for the profile's bio 501 and work history 1003. The content can also consist of skills 1007 which the contributor 301 adds to the profile and ratings of skills 1007 which are already on the profile. The contributor 301 can also add connections 205 to the profile. When a contributor 301 adds a connection 205, the system asks the profile owner 201 to confirm the connection 205. If the connection 205 is confirmed, then an invitation 203 is sent to the connection 205 inviting him to join the profile owner 201 's network. In the process, the profile owner 201 and the contributor 301 who added the connection 205 can rate the connection 205 's relationship level with the profile owner 201. The profile owner 201 can also determine whether or not to designate the new connection 205 as a contributor 301.

[0085] The impact which the contributor 301 's skills 1007 and connection 205 ratings have on the overall ratings are a function of the contributor 301 's own connection 205 rating with the profile owner 201. For instance, if the contributor 301 has a higher-quality relationship rating with the profile owner 201, then the contributor 301 's ratings of the profile owner 201 's skills 1007 and other connections 205 will have a greater impact on these ratings. In this way, the contributors 301 's closest to the profile owner 201 have a proportionate impact on the profile owner 201 's profile 1005 content.

[0086] Aspects of a contributor 301 's connection 205 with the profile owner 201 are rated by other contributors 301 to the profile and these various ratings are amalgamated by the collaborative social network platform's algorithm 1009 to create a composite value for the contributor 301. The contributor 301 will have a different composite value for every profile 1005 which he is a contributor 301 based on the local ratings of each profile 1011 's other contributors 301.

[0087] In one embodiment, a contributor 301 or the profile owner 201 can add text content to the profile owner 201 's bio 501. The bio 501 content is easily editable inline with the application such that the contributor 301 does not have to navigate away from the Profile 1005 in order to edit. Furthermore, the bio 501 is editable in WYSIWYG format so that no special knowledge or training is required. Changes to the bio 501 are recorded in a version history which contributors 301 can revert back to if necessary. Also, even though contributors 301 to the bio 501 are anonymous, the system records the identity of all contributors 301. This data is used (e.g., the algorithm 503 described above) to create an overall profile score reflecting the number and connection value of contributors 301 to the profile. The data is also used to block a contributor 301 who has repeatedly abused the system by posting incorrect or objectionable content.

[0088] Connections 205 are able to view the profile owner 201 's content, but cannot edit the content. Connections 205 can request the ability to edit and the profile owner 201 can grant edit privileges by designating the connection 205 as a contributor 301. All others (not connected to the profile owner 201) are unable to view bio 501 content.

[0089] In one embodiment, a contributor 301 or the profile owner 201 can add text and time frame content to the profile owner 201 's work history 1003. The work history 1003 content is easily editable inline with the application such that the contributor 301 does not have to navigate away from the profile in order to edit. Furthermore, the work history 1003 is editable in WYSIWYG format so that no special knowledge or training is required. Changes to the work history 1003 are recorded in a version history which contributors 301 can revert back to if necessary. Also, even though contributors 301 to the work history 1003 are anonymous, the system records the identity of all contributors 301. This data is used (e.g., through the algorithm 1009 described above) to create an overall profile score reflecting the number and connection value of contributors 301 to the profile 1005. The data is also used to block a contributor 301 who has repeatedly abused the system by posting incorrect or objectionable content. [0090] Connections 205 are able to view the profile owner 201 's work history 1003 content, but cannot edit the content. Connections 205 can request the ability to edit and the profile owner 201 can grant edit privileges by designating the connection 205 as a contributor 301. All others (not connected to the profile owner 201) can view only the names and durations of past positions, but not content describing responsibilities and accomplishments.

[0091] In one embodiment, a contributor 301 or the profile owner 201 can add and rate skills 1007 in the profile owner 201 's skills 1007 section. Skills 1007 are easily addable and ratable without any special knowledge or training. Also, even though contributors 301 to the skills 1007 are anonymous, the system records the identity of all contributors 301. This data is used (e.g., through the algorithm 1009 described above) to create an overall profile score reflecting the number and connection value of contributors 301 to the profile. The data is also used to create an overall weighted average for each skill which reflects the number and value of contributor's ratings 803.

[0092] Connections 205 are able to view the profile owner 201 's skills 1007 content, but cannot edit the content. Connections 205 can request the ability to edit and the profile owner 201 can grant edit privileges by designating the connection 205 as a contributor 301. All others (not connected to the profile owner 201) can view skills 1007 but cannot rate or add skills.

[0093] In one embodiment, a contributor 301 or the profile owner 201 can add and rate connections 205 in the profile owner 201 's connections 205 section. Contributors 301 can also add connections 205 by sending an internal invitation 203 (if the connection 205 already has a profile in the system) or an email invitation 203. Connections 205 are easily addable and ratable without any special knowledge or training. Also, even though adding and rating connections 205 are anonymous, the system records the identity of all contributors 301. This data is used (e.g., through the algorithm 1009 described above) to create an overall profile score reflecting the number and connection value of contributors 301 to the profile 1011. The data is also used to create an overall weighted average rating for each connection 205 which reflects the number and value of contributor ratings 905.

[0094] Connections 205 are able to view the profile owner 201 's connections 205, but cannot add or rate connections 205. Connections 205 can request the ability to add and rate connections 205 and the profile owner 201 can grant edit privileges by designating the connection 205 as a contributor 301. All others (not connected to the profile owner 201) cannot view connections 205.

[0095] In one embodiment, the algorithm 1009 and/or any other algorithm of the system 100 can take Contributor ratings 905 of other contributors 301 and connections 205 and assigns a numerical value to the contributors 301 and connections 205. The algorithm 1009 also takes into account other qualitative and quantitative data about the contributors 301 and connections 205 and factors such data into the resulting value. For instance, a contributor 301 may be assigned a value of 12 based on a combination of: (1) other contributor ratings 905 (weighted by the value of those contributors 301); (2) number of shared connections 205 with the profile owner 201; and/or (3) attributes of the connection 205 's relationship with the profile owner 201 (such as whether the relationship is one of a superior or an employee).

[0096] The resulting value assigned to a contributor 301 is then used to compile an aggregate profile quality score as well as to establish a weight to the contributor's ratings 803 of Skills 907 and Connections 909.

[0097] Some of the various values factored into the algorithm 1009 are voted on by the entire community of users (e.g., all members of the collaborative social network platform 101). For instance, the relative numerical value of a close connection versus an acquaintance is voted on by members. Similarly, the value of other relationship attributes (such as superior/employee) are also assigned by the collective membership.

[0098] In one embodiment, a profile is never fully complete, even if its quality score is very high. All designated contributors 301 to the profile owner 201 's profile as well as the profile owner 201 himself can edit the profile at any time. Furthermore, the profile owner 201 can choose to send out a request to update if he feels that the content in the profile has grown stale. In this way, the quality of the profile is always increasing in quality. Furthermore, as the profile owner 201 increases the pool of contributors 301, the perspective of the profile will grow broader.

[0099] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process for creating a collaborative profile, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process 1100 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 17. In addition or alternatively, the UE 103 and/or the collaborative social network application 105 may perform all or a portion of the process 1100, and may also be implemented in the chip set including the processor and the memory as shown in FIG. 17.

[0100] In step 1101, the collaborative social network platform 101 receives a request to create a collaborative profile for a user. In one embodiment, the collaborative profile is presented on a social network. As previously described, the request to create the collaborative profile can originate from the user or profile owner. In addition or alternatively, peer users or connections associated with the user may initiate the request to create the profile. In one embodiment, if the request is made by a user other than the profile owner, the collaborative social network platform 101 can request approval from the profile owner to create the profile.

[0101] In one embodiment, the collaborative profile includes one or more content categories; and wherein the one or more content categories include a biography category, a work history category, a skills category, a network category, or a combination thereof. It is contemplated that the collaborative social network platform 101 can support any number and/or type of content categories for inclusion in a collaborative profile. In one embodiment, the content categories can be further layered or segregated according to context (e.g., work history category for a business context, gift wish lists for a personal context, etc.).

[0102] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 partitions the collaborative profile into a public portion and a private portion. In one embodiment, the public portion is accessible by all users and the private portion is accessible by one or more users meeting predetermined criteria. By way of example, the collaborative social network platform 101 can use any criteria for determining access to the private portion of a collaborative profile (e.g., relationship level, user-approval status, invitation, etc.). In one embodiment (e.g., in a business context), the public portion includes work history information without descriptive content, one or more top skills, or a combination thereof.

[0103] In step 1103, the collaborative social network platform 101 determines one or more peer users associated with the user. By way of example, peer users are users who may contribute or otherwise edit content information for a user's collaborative profile. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 can use information on prior relationships (e.g., a company directory, existing social networks, etc.) to infer a user's peers or connections. [0104] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 can use an invitation 203 system to determine peer users. For example, the collaborative social network platform 101 can receive a request from a first one of the one or more peer users or the user to a second one of the one or more peer users or the user to edit the collaborative profile. The platform 101 then initiates a transmission of an invitation 203 to the second one of the one or more peer users or the user based on the request, wherein an access to the user interface by the second one of the one or more peer users or the user is based on the invitation 203. In this example, the first user has privileges to invite other users. This privilege can be granted based on any criteria including, but not limited to, relationship level, specific authorization, etc.

[0105] In step 1105, the collaborative social network platform 101 presents a user interface for access by the one or more peer users, wherein the user interface provides one or more user interface elements for the one or more peer users to edit or otherwise provide content for the collaborative profile.

[0106] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 receives an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for editing the collaborative profile. The platform 101 then presents input to the user (e.g., the profile owner) for an approval, and initiates an update of the collaborative profile using the input based on the approval.

[0107] In one embodiment (e.g., in a business context), the collaborative social network platform 101 receives an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface, wherein the input includes content information describing a work history of the user, describing one or more responsibilities associated with the work history, describing one or more accomplishments associated with the work history, or a combination thereof.

[0108] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 receives an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for adding one or more skill attributes to the collaborative profile, for rating the one or more skill attributes, or a combination thereof, or a combination thereof.

[0109] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 sorts the one or more skill attributes based on the rating of the one or more skill attributes by the one or more peer users, and initiates a presentation of the one or more skill attributes based on the sorting. In one embodiment, the presentation of the one or more skill attributes includes presenting rating information associated with the one or more skill attributes.

[0110] In step 1107, the collaborative social network platform 101 aggregates the content provided by the one or more users via the user interface in the collaborative profile. In one embodiment, the aggregation of the content is performed using quality score information, relationship information, rating information, as discussed with respect to the various embodiments described herein.

[0111] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a process for presenting a quality score for a collaborative profile based on relationship information, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process 1200 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 8. In addition or alternatively, the UE 103 and/or the collaborative social network application 105 may perform all or a portion of the process 1200, and may also be implemented in the chip set including the processor and the memory as shown in FIG. 17.

[0112] In step 1201, the collaborative social network platform 101 associates one or more relationship levels with peer users that describe their relationship with the profile owner or user. In other words, in one embodiment, the one or more peer users, the user, or a combination thereof are associated via one or more relationship levels by the social network platform 101. As previously described, the relationship levels can be layered any number of relationships among the user and peer users across multiple contexts (e.g., business, personal, etc.).

[0113] In step 1203, the collaborative social network platform 101 receives an input from the one or more peer users via a user interface provided by the platform 101 for rating the one or more relationship levels, one or more factors associated with the one or more relationship levels, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the rating of the one or more relationship levels is based on a numerical scale. In one embodiment, a higher number on the numerical scale indicates a closer relationship level. In one embodiment, the numerical scale is specified for a collaborative network or a community of collaborative networks. In other words, the numerical scale can be specific to an individual network or universal for a community of multiple networks. In this way, a rating scale used in one network would be comparable to a scale used for other networks, thereby providing consistency for peer users who contribute to the collaborative profile as well as users who are just viewing the profiles.

[0114] In step 1205, the collaborative social network platform 101 optionally determines a quality score for the collaborative profile based on the one or more relationship levels of the one or more peer users, the rating of the one or more relationship levels, the one or more factors associated with the one or more relationship levels, or a combination thereof. As previously discussed, relationship factors such as closeness of relationships as well as feedback from users about the rating or quality of those relationships can be used to determine the quality score. For example, a collaborative profile that includes content provided by peer users who have close relationships (e.g., supervisor-employee, co-worker on the same team, etc.) and are highly rated may be associated with a higher quality score.

[0115] In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 then initiates a presentation of a representation of the quality score for the collaborative profile. By way of example, the collaborative social network platform 101 can use any type of representation (e.g., visual representation, audio representation, textual representation) of the quality score to convey the score to a user of the collaborative social network platform 101. In one embodiment, the representation is presented in a user interface generated by the collaborative social network platform 101, the collaborative social network application 105, and/or the UE 103.

[0116] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a process for including or excluding peers in a collaborative social network based on relationship information, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process 1300 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 8. In addition or alternatively, the UE 103 and/or the collaborative social network application 105 may perform all or a portion of the process 1300, and may also be implemented in the chip set including the processor and the memory as shown in FIG. 17.

[0117] In step 1301, the collaborative social network platform 101 receives an input from the one or more peer users via a user interface provided by the platform 101 for specifying relationship information between the user and one of the one or more peer users. By way of example, the relationship information may include information indicating whether or not there is an actual relationship between the user and one or more peer users. For instance, in one example use case, User C can provide (e.g., via a user interface provided by the collaborative social network platform 101) relationship information to indicate that User A does not actually have a relationship with User B.

[0118] In step 303, the collaborative social network platform 101 determines whether to include or exclude the one of the one or more peer users based on the relationship information. In this example use case above, the platform 101 can use the information that User A does not have a relationship with User B to exclude User B from User A's network. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 can use rules or criteria for applying the relationship information. For example, the determination of whether to include or exclude the one of the one or more peer users can be based on a number of the one or more peer users providing the relationship information. Continuing with the example use case, for instance, if more than a specified number of users provide information that User A and User B do not have a relationship, then User B is excluded from User A's network.

[0119] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a process for weighting peer input for editing a collaborative profile, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the collaborative social network platform 101 performs the process 1400 and is implemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 8. In addition or alternatively, the UE 103 and/or the collaborative social network application 105 may perform all or a portion of the process 1400, and may also be implemented in the chip set including the processor and the memory as shown in FIG. 17.

[0120] In step 1401, the collaborative social network platform 101 determines relationship level information for the one or more peer users providing an input for editing the collaborative profile. For example, the relationship level information may include ratings of the relationship provided by other peer users. The ratings, for instance, may indicate how close or strong a relationship between the profile owner and a contributing peer user is.

[0121] In one embodiment, in addition or alternatively, the collaborative social network platform 101 determines a degree of overlap between a first social network associated with the user and a second social network associated with the one or more peer users providing the input. In other words, the collaborative social network platform 101 can determine who many common connections (e.g., peer users) appear in the respective networks of the profile owner and the contributing peer user. A higher degree of overlap may indicate, for instance, a closer relationship or trustworthiness of the contributing peer user with respect to the profile owner.

[0122] In step 1403, the collaborative social network platform 101 determines a weight for the input (e.g., rating or content for inclusion in the collaborative profile) provided by a contributing peer user based on the relationship level information and/or degree of overlap. As indicated above, if the relationship level information (e.g.., relationship rating) and/or the degree of overlap is higher, the collaborative social network platform 101 may assign a higher weight for the corresponding input.

[0123] In step 1405, the collaborative social network platform 101 updates the collaborative profile based on the input and the weight and/or degree of overlap. For example, ratings provided by a higher weighted peer user would affect a collaborative profile's aggregate rating more than a rating provided by a lower weighted peer user.

[0124] FIGs. 15A-15F are diagrams of user interfaces used in the processes for proving a collaborative social network, according to various embodiments. FIG. 15A depicts a user interface 1501 that is a profile owner 201 's view. In one embodiment, the user interface 1501 includes fields 1503 for displaying information in the current profile of the profile owner 201. In one embodiment, the user interface 1501 also enables the profile owner 201 to edit or approve the information in any of the fields 1503. In addition, the profile owner 201 is provided with an option 1505 to add additional connections who can potentially contribute information to the profile.

[0125] FIG. 15B depicts a user interface 1511 that is a contributor 301 's view that has editing capabilities. As previously described, the profile owner 201 or other contributors 301 can invite other connections 205 to contribute to the profile owner 201 's profile. Once invited and/or accepted, the contributor 301 is then granted access to the user interface 1511. In one embodiment, the contributor 301 can use the user interface 1511 to provide content and/or ratings for inclusion in the subject profile. As previously described, in one embodiment, any content provided through the user interface 1511 may be approved by the profile owner 201 before that content is incorporated into the profile.

[0126] FIG. 15C depicts a user interface 1521 that is a connection 205 's view that has no editing capabilities. As noted above, connections 205 are members of the profile owner 201 's network who have not been granted contributor rights to the profile. Accordingly, the user interface 1521 provide read only access to the collaborative profile without allowing the connection 205 to edit any of the content. In one embodiment, the profile owner 201 may also determine what information or fields or available in the user interface 1521. For example, more (or less) information may be provided in the user interface 1511 that is presented to contributors 301 versus the user interface 1521 that is presented to connections 205.

[0127] FIG. 15D depicts a user interface 1531 that is for a contributor 301 to provide work history 1003 or other career experience for inclusion in a collaborative profile. In one embodiment, the user interface 1531 may be provided in conjunction with or as a subscreen of the user interface 1511 that is presented to contributors 301. As shown, the user interface 1531 presents fields for adding positions and/or related information held by the profile owner 201. In one embodiment, the types of positions or fields that can be added can be edited and/or approved by the profile owner 201 and/or other contributors 301. For example, the types of positions added can be validated against the work history of the contributor 301 to ensure that the contributor 301 has or is likely to have actual knowledge of the work history for the relevant position.

[0128] FIG. 15E depicts a user interface 1541 that is for a contributor 301 to add and/or rate skills 1007. As with the user interface 1531, the user interface 1541 can be presented in conjunction with or as a subscreen of the user interface 1511 that is presented to contributors 301. The user interface 1511 includes skills 1007 that have been previously provided the profile owner 201 and/or other contributors 301. In addition, the user interface 1541 provides an option 1543 to add a skill. In this way, the user interface 1541 enables the contributor 301 to provide ratings (e.g., by selecting a box 1 through 4) for the skills 1007 in the collaborative profile. As with other contributed content, the profile owner 201 can configure the system 100 to ask for the owner 201 's approval before adding the provided skills information to the collaborative content.

[0129] FIG. 15F depicts a user interface 1551 that is for a profile owner 201 to edit his connections 205. As shown, the user interface 1551 lists the profile owner 201 's current connections (e.g., connections 205a-205b). By selecting on any of the connections 205a-205b, the profile owner 201 can view additional information about the respective connection 205 (e.g., connection rating, privilege level, etc.). In addition, the user interface 1551 enables the profile owner 201 to add or delete additional connections 205. In one embodiment, the user interface 1551 further provides options for communicating with the connections (e.g., a messaging option). In one embodiment, the profile owner 201 can also determine which connections 205 are also contributors 301 (e.g., by selecting the appropriate contributor privilege level).

[0130] The processes described herein for providing a collaborative social network may be advantageously implemented via software, hardware, firmware or a combination of software and/or firmware and/or hardware. For example, the processes described herein, may be advantageously implemented via processor(s), Digital Signal Processing (DSP) chip, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), etc. Such exemplary hardware for performing the described functions is detailed below.

[0131] FIG. 16 illustrates a computer system 1600 upon which an embodiment of the invention may be implemented. Although computer system 1600 is depicted with respect to a particular device or equipment, it is contemplated that other devices or equipment (e.g., network elements, servers, etc.) within FIG. 16 can deploy the illustrated hardware and components of system 1600. Computer system 1600 is programmed (e.g., via computer program code or instructions) to provide a collaborative social network as described herein and includes a communication mechanism such as a bus 1610 for passing information between other internal and external components of the computer system 1600. Information (also called data) is represented as a physical expression of a measurable phenomenon, typically electric voltages, but including, in other embodiments, such phenomena as magnetic, electromagnetic, pressure, chemical, biological, molecular, atomic, sub-atomic and quantum interactions. For example, north and south magnetic fields, or a zero and non-zero electric voltage, represent two states (0, 1) of a binary digit (bit). Other phenomena can represent digits of a higher base. A superposition of multiple simultaneous quantum states before measurement represents a quantum bit (qubit). A sequence of one or more digits constitutes digital data that is used to represent a number or code for a character. In some embodiments, information called analog data is represented by a near continuum of measurable values within a particular range. Computer system 1600, or a portion thereof, constitutes a means for performing one or more steps of providing a collaborative social network. [0132] A bus 1610 includes one or more parallel conductors of information so that information is transferred quickly among devices coupled to the bus 1610. One or more processors 1602 for processing information are coupled with the bus 1610.

[0133] A processor (or multiple processors) 1602 performs a set of operations on information as specified by computer program code related to providing a collaborative social network. The computer program code is a set of instructions or statements providing instructions for the operation of the processor and/or the computer system to perform specified functions. The code, for example, may be written in a computer programming language that is compiled into a native instruction set of the processor. The code may also be written directly using the native instruction set (e.g., machine language). The set of operations include bringing information in from the bus 1610 and placing information on the bus 1610. The set of operations also typically include comparing two or more units of information, shifting positions of units of information, and combining two or more units of information, such as by addition or multiplication or logical operations like OR, exclusive OR (XOR), and AND. Each operation of the set of operations that can be performed by the processor is represented to the processor by information called instructions, such as an operation code of one or more digits. A sequence of operations to be executed by the processor 1602, such as a sequence of operation codes, constitute processor instructions, also called computer system instructions or, simply, computer instructions. Processors may be implemented as mechanical, electrical, magnetic, optical, chemical or quantum components, among others, alone or in combination.

[0134] Computer system 1600 also includes a memory 1604 coupled to bus 1610. The memory 1604, such as a random access memory (RAM) or any other dynamic storage device, stores information including processor instructions for providing a collaborative social network. Dynamic memory allows information stored therein to be changed by the computer system 1600. RAM allows a unit of information stored at a location called a memory address to be stored and retrieved independently of information at neighboring addresses. The memory 1604 is also used by the processor 1602 to store temporary values during execution of processor instructions. The computer system 1600 also includes a read only memory (ROM) 1606 or any other static storage device coupled to the bus 1610 for storing static information, including instructions, that is not changed by the computer system 1600. Some memory is composed of volatile storage that loses the information stored thereon when power is lost. Also coupled to bus 1610 is a non-volatile (persistent) storage device 1608, such as a magnetic disk, optical disk or flash card, for storing information, including instructions, that persists even when the computer system 1600 is turned off or otherwise loses power.

[0135] Information, including instructions for providing a collaborative social network, is provided to the bus 1610 for use by the processor from an external input device 1612, such as a keyboard containing alphanumeric keys operated by a human user, or a sensor. A sensor detects conditions in its vicinity and transforms those detections into physical expression compatible with the measurable phenomenon used to represent information in computer system 1600. Other external devices coupled to bus 1610, used primarily for interacting with humans, include a display device 1614, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic LED (OLED) display, a plasma screen, or a printer for presenting text or images, and a pointing device 1616, such as a mouse, a trackball, cursor direction keys, or a motion sensor, for controlling a position of a small cursor image presented on the display 1614 and issuing commands associated with graphical elements presented on the display 1614. In some embodiments, for example, in embodiments in which the computer system 1600 performs all functions automatically without human input, one or more of external input device 1612, display device 1614 and pointing device 1616 is omitted.

[0136] In the illustrated embodiment, special purpose hardware, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 1620, is coupled to bus 1610. The special purpose hardware is configured to perform operations not performed by processor 1602 quickly enough for special purposes. Examples of ASICs include graphics accelerator cards for generating images for display 1614, cryptographic boards for encrypting and decrypting messages sent over a network, speech recognition, and interfaces to special external devices, such as robotic arms and medical scanning equipment that repeatedly perform some complex sequence of operations that are more efficiently implemented in hardware.

[0137] Computer system 1600 also includes one or more instances of a communications interface 1670 coupled to bus 1610. Communication interface 1670 provides a one-way or two- way communication coupling to a variety of external devices that operate with their own processors, such as printers, scanners and external disks. In general the coupling is with a network link 1678 that is connected to a local network 1680 to which a variety of external devices with their own processors are connected. For example, communication interface 1670 may be a parallel port or a serial port or a universal serial bus (USB) port on a personal computer. In some embodiments, communications interface 1670 is an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card or a digital subscriber line (DSL) card or a telephone modem that provides an information communication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. In some embodiments, a communication interface 1670 is a cable modem that converts signals on bus 1610 into signals for a communication connection over a coaxial cable or into optical signals for a communication connection over a fiber optic cable. As another example, communications interface 1670 may be a local area network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN, such as Ethernet. Wireless links may also be implemented. For wireless links, the communications interface 1670 sends or receives or both sends and receives electrical, acoustic or electromagnetic signals, including infrared and optical signals, that carry information streams, such as digital data. For example, in wireless handheld devices, such as mobile telephones like cell phones, the communications interface 1670 includes a radio band electromagnetic transmitter and receiver called a radio transceiver. In certain embodiments, the communications interface 1670 enables connection to the communication network 165 for providing a collaborative social network to the UE 103.

[0138] The term "computer-readable medium" as used herein refers to any medium that participates in providing information to processor 1602, including instructions for execution. Such a medium may take many forms, including, but not limited to computer-readable storage medium (e.g., non-volatile media, volatile media), and transmission media. Non-transitory media, such as non-volatile media, include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as storage device 1608. Volatile media include, for example, dynamic memory 1604. Transmission media include, for example, twisted pair cables, coaxial cables, copper wire, fiber optic cables, and carrier waves that travel through space without wires or cables, such as acoustic waves and electromagnetic waves, including radio, optical and infrared waves. Signals include man-made transient variations in amplitude, frequency, phase, polarization or other physical properties transmitted through the transmission media. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, CDRW, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, optical mark sheets, any other physical medium with patterns of holes or other optically recognizable indicia, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, an EEPROM, a flash memory, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer can read. The term computer-readable storage medium is used herein to refer to any computer-readable medium except transmission media.

[0139] Logic encoded in one or more tangible media includes one or both of processor instructions on a computer-readable storage media and special purpose hardware, such as ASIC 1620.

[0140] Network link 1678 typically provides information communication using transmission media through one or more networks to other devices that use or process the information. For example, network link 1678 may provide a connection through local network 1680 to a host computer 1682 or to equipment 1684 operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ISP equipment 1684 in turn provides data communication services through the public, world-wide packet-switching communication network of networks now commonly referred to as the Internet 1690.

[0141] A computer called a server host 1692 connected to the Internet hosts a process that provides a service in response to information received over the Internet. For example, server host 1692 hosts a process that provides information representing video data for presentation at display 1614. It is contemplated that the components of system 1600 can be deployed in various configurations within other computer systems, e.g., host 1682 and server 1692.

[0142] At least some embodiments of the invention are related to the use of computer system 1600 for implementing some or all of the techniques described herein. According to one embodiment of the invention, those techniques are performed by computer system 1600 in response to processor 1602 executing one or more sequences of one or more processor instructions contained in memory 1604. Such instructions, also called computer instructions, software and program code, may be read into memory 1604 from another computer-readable medium such as storage device 1608 or network link 1678. Execution of the sequences of instructions contained in memory 1604 causes processor 1602 to perform one or more of the method steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, hardware, such as ASIC 1620, may be used in place of or in combination with software to implement the invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are not limited to any specific combination of hardware and software, unless otherwise explicitly stated herein.

[0143] The signals transmitted over network link 1678 and other networks through communications interface 1670, carry information to and from computer system 1600. Computer system 1600 can send and receive information, including program code, through the networks 1680, 1690 among others, through network link 1678 and communications interface 1670. In an example using the Internet 1690, a server host 1692 transmits program code for a particular application, requested by a message sent from computer 1600, through Internet 1690, ISP equipment 1684, local network 1680 and communications interface 1670. The received code may be executed by processor 1602 as it is received, or may be stored in memory 1604 or in storage device 1608 or any other non-volatile storage for later execution, or both. In this manner, computer system 1600 may obtain application program code in the form of signals on a carrier wave.

[0144] Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequence of instructions or data or both to processor 1602 for execution. For example, instructions and data may initially be carried on a magnetic disk of a remote computer such as host 1682. The remote computer loads the instructions and data into its dynamic memory and sends the instructions and data over a telephone line using a modem. A modem local to the computer system 1600 receives the instructions and data on a telephone line and uses an infrared transmitter to convert the instructions and data to a signal on an infra-red carrier wave serving as the network link 1678. An infrared detector serving as communications interface 1670 receives the instructions and data carried in the infrared signal and places information representing the instructions and data onto bus 1610. Bus 1610 carries the information to memory 1604 from which processor 1602 retrieves and executes the instructions using some of the data sent with the instructions. The instructions and data received in memory 1604 may optionally be stored on storage device 1608, either before or after execution by the processor 1602.

[0145] FIG. 17 illustrates a chip set or chip 1700 upon which an embodiment of the invention may be implemented. Chip set 1700 is programmed to provide a collaborative social network as described herein and includes, for instance, the processor and memory components described with respect to FIG. 16 incorporated in one or more physical packages (e.g., chips). By way of example, a physical package includes an arrangement of one or more materials, components, and/or wires on a structural assembly (e.g., a baseboard) to provide one or more characteristics such as physical strength, conservation of size, and/or limitation of electrical interaction. It is contemplated that in certain embodiments the chip set 1700 can be implemented in a single chip. It is further contemplated that in certain embodiments the chip set or chip 1700 can be implemented as a single "system on a chip." It is further contemplated that in certain embodiments a separate ASIC would not be used, for example, and that all relevant functions as disclosed herein would be performed by a processor or processors. Chip set or chip 1700, or a portion thereof, constitutes a means for performing one or more steps of providing user interface navigation information associated with the availability of functions. Chip set or chip 1700, or a portion thereof, constitutes a means for performing one or more steps of providing a collaborative social network.

[0146] In one embodiment, the chip set or chip 1700 includes a communication mechanism such as a bus 1701 for passing information among the components of the chip set 1700. A processor 1703 has connectivity to the bus 1701 to execute instructions and process information stored in, for example, a memory 1705. The processor 1703 may include one or more processing cores with each core configured to perform independently. A multi-core processor enables multiprocessing within a single physical package. Examples of a multi-core processor include two, four, eight, or greater numbers of processing cores. Alternatively or in addition, the processor 1703 may include one or more microprocessors configured in tandem via the bus 1701 to enable independent execution of instructions, pipelining, and multithreading. The processor 1703 may also be accompanied with one or more specialized components to perform certain processing functions and tasks such as one or more digital signal processors (DSP) 1707, or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) 1709. A DSP 1707 typically is configured to process real-world signals (e.g., sound) in real time independently of the processor 1703. Similarly, an ASIC 1709 can be configured to performed specialized functions not easily performed by a more general purpose processor. Other specialized components to aid in performing the inventive functions described herein may include one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGA) (not shown), one or more controllers (not shown), or one or more other special-purpose computer chips. [0147] In one embodiment, the chip set or chip 1700 includes merely one or more processors and some software and/or firmware supporting and/or relating to and/or for the one or more processors.

[0148] The processor 1703 and accompanying components have connectivity to the memory 1705 via the bus 1701. The memory 1705 includes both dynamic memory (e.g., RAM, magnetic disk, writable optical disk, etc.) and static memory (e.g., ROM, CD-ROM, etc.) for storing executable instructions that when executed perform the inventive steps described herein to provide a collaborative social network. The memory 1705 also stores the data associated with or generated by the execution of the inventive steps.

[0149] While the invention has been described in connection with a number of embodiments and implementations, the invention is not so limited but covers various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements, which fall within the purview of the appended claims. Although features of the invention are expressed in certain combinations among the claims, it is contemplated that these features can be arranged in any combination and order.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method comprising:

receiving a request to create a collaborative profile for a user, wherein the collaborative profile is presented on a social network;

determining one or more peer users associated with the user;

presenting a user interface for access by the one or more peer users, wherein the user interface provides one or more user interface elements for the one or more peer users to provide content for the collaborative profile; and

aggregating the content provided by the one or more users via the user interface in the collaborative profile.

2. A method of claim 1, wherein the collaborative profile is associated with a business context, the method further comprising:

receiving an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface, wherein the input includes content information describing a work history of the user, describing one or more responsibilities associated with the work history, describing one or more accomplishments associated with the work history, or a combination thereof.

3. A method of claim 2, further comprising:

receiving an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for adding one or more skill attributes to the collaborative profile, for rating the one or more skill attributes, or a combination thereof, or a combination thereof.

4. A method of claim 3, further comprising:

sorting the one or more skill attributes based on the rating of the one or more skill attributes by the one or more peer users; and

initiating a presentation of the one or more skill attributes based on the sorting.

5. A method of claim of 4, wherein the presentation of the one or more skill attributes includes presenting rating information associated with the one or more skill attributes.

6. A method according to any of claims 1-5, wherein the one or more peer users, the user, or a combination thereof are associated via one or more relationship levels.

7. A method of claim 6, further comprising:

receiving an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for rating the one or more relationship levels, one or more factors associated with the one or more relationship levels, or a combination thereof.

8. A method of claim 7, further comprising:

determining a quality score for the collaborative profile based on the one or more relationship levels of the one or more peer users, the rating of the one or more relationship levels, the one or more factors associated with the one or more relationship levels, or a combination thereof; and

initiating a presentation of a representation of the quality score for the collaborative profile.

9. A method according to any of claims 7 and 8, wherein the rating of the one or more relationship levels is based on a numerical scale.

10. A method of claim 9, wherein a higher number on the numerical scale indicates a closer relationship level.

11. A method according to any of claim 9 and 10, wherein the numerical scale is specified for a collaborative network or a community of collaborative networks.

12. A method according to any of claims 1-11, wherein the collaborative profile includes one or more content categories; and wherein the one or more content categories include a biography category, a work history category, a skills category, a network category, or a combination thereof.

13. A method according to any of claims 1-12, further comprising:

receiving a request from a first one of the one or more peer users or the user to a second one of the one or more peer users or the user to edit the collaborative profile; and

initiating a transmission of an invitation to the second one of the one or more peer users or the user based on the request,

wherein an access to the user interface by the second one of the one or more peer users or the user is based on the invitation.

14. A method according to any of claims 1-13, further comprising:

partitioning the collaborative profile into a public portion and a private portion,

wherein the public portion is accessible by all users and the private portion is accessible by one or more users meeting predetermined criteria.

15. A method of claim 14, wherein the public portion includes work history information without descriptive content, one or more top skills, or a combination thereof.

16. A method according to any of claims 1-15, further comprising:

receiving an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for editing the collaborative profile;

presenting the input to the user for an approval; and

initiating an update of the collaborative profile using the input based on the approval.

17. A method according to any of claims 1-16, further comprising:

receiving an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for specifying relationship information between the user and one of the one or more peer users; and determining whether to include or exclude the one of the one or more peer users based on the relationship information.

18. A method of claim 17, wherein the determination of whether to include or exclude the one of the one or more peer users is based on a number of the one or more peer users providing the relationship information.

19. A method according to any of claims 1-18, further comprising:

determining relationship level information for the one or more peer users providing an input for editing the collaborative profile;

determining a weight for the input based on the relationship level information; and updating the collaborative profile based on the input and the weight.

20. A method of claim 19, further comprising:

determining a degree of overlap between a first social network associated with the user and a second social network associated with the one or more peer users providing the input, wherein the updating of the collaborative profile is further based on the degree of overlap.

21. An apparatus comprising:

at least one processor; and

at least one memory including computer program code for one or more programs, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following,

request a request to create a collaborative profile for a user, wherein the collaborative profile is presented on a social network;

determine one or more peer users associated with the user;

present a user interface for access by the one or more peer users, wherein the user interface provides one or more user interface elements for the one or more peer users to provide content for the collaborative profile; and

aggregate the content provided by the one or more users via the user interface in the collaborative profile.

22. An apparatus of claim 21, wherein the collaborative profile is associated with a business context, and wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following:

receive an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface, wherein the input includes content information describing a work history of the user, describing one or more responsibilities associated with the work history, describing one or more accomplishments associated with the work history, or a combination thereof.

23. An apparatus of claim 22, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following:

receive an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for adding one or more skill attributes to the collaborative profile, for rating the one or more skill attributes, or a combination thereof, or a combination thereof.

24. An apparatus of claim 23, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following:

sort the one or more skill attributes based on the rating of the one or more skill attributes by the one or more peer users; and

initiate a presentation of the one or more skill attributes based on the sorting.

25. An apparatus of claim of 24, wherein the presentation of the one or more skill attributes includes presenting rating information associated with the one or more skill attributes.

26. An apparatus according to any of claims 21-25, wherein the one or more peer users, the user, or a combination thereof are associated via one or more relationship levels.

27. An apparatus of claim 26, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following:

receive an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for rating the one or more relationship levels, one or more factors associated with the one or more relationship levels, or a combination thereof.

28. An apparatus of claim 27, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following:

determine a quality score for the collaborative profile based on the one or more relationship levels of the one or more peer users, the rating of the one or more relationship levels, the one or more factors associated with the one or more relationship levels, or a combination thereof; and

initiate a presentation of a representation of the quality score for the collaborative profile.

29. An apparatus according to any of claims 27 and 28, wherein the rating of the one or more relationship levels is based on a numerical scale.

30. An apparatus of claim 29, wherein a higher number on the numerical scale indicates a closer relationship level.

31. An apparatus according to any of claim 29 and 30, wherein the numerical scale is specified for a collaborative network or a community of collaborative networks.

32. An apparatus according to any of claims 21-31, wherein the collaborative profile includes one or more content categories; and wherein the one or more content categories include a biography category, a work history category, a skills category, a network category, or a combination thereof.

33. An apparatus according to any of claims 21-32, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following:

receive a request from a first one of the one or more peer users or the user to a second one of the one or more peer users or the user to edit the collaborative profile; and

initiate a transmission of an invitation to the second one of the one or more peer users or the user based on the request,

34. An apparatus according to any of claims 21-33, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following:

partition the collaborative profile into a public portion and a private portion,

35. An apparatus of claim 34, wherein the public portion includes work history information without descriptive content, one or more top skills, or a combination thereof.

36. An apparatus according to any of claims 21-35, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following:

receive an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for editing the collaborative profile;

present the input to the user for an approval; and

initiate an update of the collaborative profile using the input based on the approval.

37. An apparatus according to any of claims 21-36, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following:

receive an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for specifying relationship information between the user and one of the one or more peer users; and determine whether to include or exclude the one of the one or more peer users based on the relationship information.

38. An apparatus of claim 37, wherein the determination of whether to include or exclude the one of the one or more peer users is based on a number of the one or more peer users providing the relationship information.

39. An apparatus according to any of claims 21-38, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following: determine relationship level information for the one or more peer users providing an input for editing the collaborative profile;

determine a weight for the input based on the relationship level information; and

update the collaborative profile based on the input and the weight.

40. An apparatus of claim 39, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform at least the following:

determine a degree of overlap between a first social network associated with the user and a second social network associated with the one or more peer users providing the input, wherein the updating of the collaborative profile is further based on the degree of overlap.

41. A system comprising at least one collaborative social network platform configured to: receive a request to create a collaborative profile for a user, wherein the collaborative profile is presented on a social network;

determine one or more peer users associated with the user;

42. A system of claim 41, wherein the collaborative profile is associated with a business context, and wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to:

43. A system of claim 42, wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to: receive an input from the one or more peer users via the user interface for adding one or more skill attributes to the collaborative profile, for rating the one or more skill attributes, or a combination thereof, or a combination thereof.

44. A system of claim 43, wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to:

45. A system of claim of 44, wherein the presentation of the one or more skill attributes includes presenting rating information associated with the one or more skill attributes.

46. A system according to any of claims 41-45, wherein the one or more peer users, the user, or a combination thereof are associated via one or more relationship levels.

47. A system of claim 46, wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to:

48. A system of claim 47, wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to:

49. A system according to any of claims 47 and 48, wherein the rating of the one or more relationship levels is based on a numerical scale.

50. A system of claim 49, wherein a higher number on the numerical scale indicates a closer relationship level.

51. A system according to any of claim 49 and 50, wherein the numerical scale is specified for a collaborative network or a community of collaborative networks.

52. A system according to any of claims 41-51, wherein the collaborative profile includes one or more content categories; and wherein the one or more content categories include a biography category, a work history category, a skills category, a network category, or a combination thereof.

53. A system according to any of claims 41-52, wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to:

54. A system according to any of claims 41-53, wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to:

55. A system of claim 54, wherein the public portion includes work history information without descriptive content, one or more top skills, or a combination thereof.

56. A system according to any of claims 41-55, wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to:

present the input to the user for an approval; and

57. A system according to any of claims 41-56, wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to:

58. A system of claim 57, wherein the determination of whether to include or exclude the one of the one or more peer users is based on a number of the one or more peer users providing the relationship information.

59. A system according to any of claims 41-58, wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to:

determine relationship level information for the one or more peer users providing an input for editing the collaborative profile;

update the collaborative profile based on the input and the weight.

60. A system of claim 59, wherein the collaborative social network platform is further configured to: determine a degree of overlap between a first social network associated with the user and a second social network associated with the one or more peer users providing the input, wherein the updating of the collaborative profile is further based on the degree of overlap.