Social network method and apparatus

US8214300B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• ACCENTURE GLOBAL SERVICES LIMITED · IE

Inventor

• Edward J. Gottsman · Evanston, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 16, 2008
• Grant date: Jul 3, 2012
• Expiry date: May 28, 2029

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G06Q50/01
• WIPO field: IT methods for management
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

A social networking apparatus includes a first project involvement module, a second project involvement module, and a relationship determination module. The first project involvement module determines a first degree of involvement with a project for a first person. The second project involvement module determines a second degree of involvement with the project for a second person. The relationship determination module determines a social relationship between the first and second person based on the first and second degree of involvement. A combined project involvement module may also determine a combined degree of involvement that takes into account the contributions of substantially all project participants, which combined degree of involvement may be further employed when determining the social relationship. In this manner, social relationships may be determined in a more efficient manner.