WO2007139958A2 - Centralized internet and intranet-based communication platform and method of using same - Google Patents

Abstract

Centralized Internet and intranet-based communication between Instructors and SME' s having live and asynchronous channels for the purpose of creating, storing, disseminating, retrieving, manipulating and responding to Communiques is achieved using an Internet and intranet-based ASP communication platform. The platform integrates streaming audio, streaming video, text, data, files, electronic payment systems, time management systems, URL's, and additional multimedia formats. Platform access is controlled, credentials are established, and an Instructor and SME database is populated for limiting use to authorized Users. A sender creates one or more Communiques for one or more Users via a streamlined process. At least one tool is provided, such as real-time instant message, real-time group chat, threaded group chat, one-way or two-way streaming asynchronous video and audio, multi-language selection, data mining and analysis, bulletin board, calendar, email, and e-commerce. The Communique is made available to the one or more Users by access via the Platform.

Description

CENTRALIZED INTERNET AND INTRANET-BASED COMMUNICATION

PLATFORM AND METHOD OF USING SAME

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application No.

60/808,864, filed May 26, 2006, for "Web-Based Training and Communications Platform and Method of Using Same" in the names of Bassem Beidas, Melanie B. Regan, and David W. Loughran, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THEINVENTION

[0002] The present invention provides a method for centralized Internet and intranet- based communication between users having live and asynchronous channels for creating, storing, disseminating, retrieving, manipulating and responding to communication packages Communiques. The present invention also provides an internet and intranet-based ASP communication platform of interconnected subsystems for the centralized Internet and intranet-based communication between the users.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Software that connects students with their teachers and coursework provides access to a large numbers of students who may be located in different learning centers spread over a large geographical area, where each learning center contains a multiplicity of students. However, the software and electronic networks, including the Internet, are complex and generally require substantial training of the teachers, students, or other users to learn how to use the software and the network effectively before they can begin communications regarding the coursework.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 5,263,869 and 5,437,555 each to Ziv-El disclose a computerized teaching system having an interactive group communication system. In the system of U.S. Patent No. 5,263,869, students in a first group interact with a teacher in Social Mode, while students in a second group proceed with work in Independent Mode. In the system of U.S. Patent No. 5,437,555 students interact with a teacher and the teacher can obtain quantitative reports on student performance without preprogrammed lessons and a lesson program can be constructed from the responses of the students. The teaching system may be spread over a large geographic area comprising a multiplicity of learning centers with a multiplicity of students at each center, wherein the students interact with a teacher who is remotely located from one or more learning centers. [0005] U.S. Patent No. 5,537,141 to Harper et al discloses an interactive distance learning system which provides individualized interactive responses to each student, as if the student is receiving instruction directly from a private tutor or instructor. An interactive program transmission occurs to a diverse number of facilities and locations. The primary transmission is a live lecture by the person making the presentation on the distance learning system and is accompanied by questions to gage comprehension by students. The questions, in interrogatory form, are graphically displayed on the screen either as video or overlaying the video showing the lecturer. In addition to the interrogatory question, a set of responses, one correct, the rest incorrect, are also presented for the student choice. A complimentary suite of affirmative supportive commentary is prepared and prerecorded for the plurality of correct and incorrect responses which might be given to a question.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 6,301,462 to Freemen et al discloses a collaborative learning system and method for implementing innovative criteria fashioned into an electronic learning experience that can be utilized at great distances. Learners can participate in the learning experience asynchronously thereby taking advantage of diverse schedules. A system is provided for offering network based education including software running on a computer or a plurality of computers for delivering educational services online. The network can include an internet protocol network wherein the servers can be accessed via a WEB interface. [0007] U.S. Patent No. 6,347,333 to Eisendrath et al discloses a Virtual Campus including interactive work plans and administrative resources presented online through a WEB interface. Through the Virtual Campus a learner can communicate with others, create and update an individual work plan, access required resources, store work, and be apprised of Virtual University announcements. While online, learners may create work groups with other learners, use a suite of business tools, interact with a registrar, or open a library data base. [0008] U.S. Patent No. 6,505,031 to Slider et al discloses a virtual school environment for allowing a plurality of teachers from a plurality of schools to communicate with their students or their students' parents over a computer network. The virtual school environment includes a plurality of web pages accessible via the computer network and linked in a hierarchical arrangement. Each of the plural web pages corresponds to one of the teachers. The virtual school environment also includes a computer server system connectable to the computer network and configured to access the plurality of web pages. The server system includes software executable by the server system to receive school assignments from one or more teachers via the computer network, and then add the received assignments to the teachers' corresponding web pages. Optionally, the server system may be configured to automatically transmit assignments to one or more parents via the computer network. [0009] U.S. Patent No. 6,546,230 to Allison discloses a technique for testing and training health care professionals. Competency tests are stored on machine readable media and transmitted via network connections to remote provider systems, such as workstations or diagnostic systems. A health care professional can take a competency test on a particular topic and input responses at the remote provider system. The health care professional's responses are evaluated, and an assessment of the professional's skills is displayed at the provider system. The assessment particularly points out those areas, if any, where the health care professional's knowledge is deficient. If the health care professional has any areas which need improvement, a list of relevant courses is also displayed at the provider system. The health care professional may then select a desired course from the user interface. The machine readable media maintains a record of the health care professional's assessment as well as a list of completed courses. This information may then be provided to a licensing entity for credit.

[0010] U.S. Patent No. 6,988,138 to Alcorn et al discloses a system and methods for implementing education online by providing institutions with the means for allowing the creation of courses to be taken by students online, the courses including assignments, announcements, course materials, chat and whiteboard facilities, and the like, all of which are available to the students over a network such as the Internet. Various levels of functionality are provided through a three-tiered licensing program that suits the needs of the institution offering the program. In addition, an open platform system is provided such that anyone with access to the Internet can create, manage, and offer a course to anyone else with access to the Internet without the need for an affiliation with an institution, thus enabling the virtual classroom to extend worldwide.

[0011] , The present invention) provides a centralized Internet and intranet-based communication platform (the "Platform") that provides instructors, students, subject matter experts, coaches, mentors, consultants, advisors, managers, counselors, and teachers, among many others (collectively the "Users") with live and asynchronous channels for the purpose of creating, storing, disseminating, retrieving, manipulating and responding to communication packages ("Communiques"). Such Communiques may be used in learning, operational, administrative, sales, marketing, and other environments in which secure, centralized, Internet and/or intranet-based communication is essential. Communiques may consist of any digital file, including but not limited to video and audio files, both streaming and non-streaming, text, data, files, electronic payment systems, time management systems, URL's, and additional multimedia formats, real-time instant message, real-time group chat, and real-time threaded group chat.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention) provides a centralized Internet and intranet-based communication platform (the "Platform") that provides Users with live and asynchronous channels for the purpose of creating, storing, disseminating, retrieving, manipulating and responding to communication packages ("Communiques")Users access a single, highly secure Platform from any location with Internet and/or intranet access. The Platform may work in any language and will work in over 100 languages. In embodiments, the Platform may be WINDOWS-based. However, the Platform may also offer access through Maclnstosh™ computers, cell phones, PDA's, Blackberry™, and iPod™ like devices, and ^• other handheld devices. In embodiments of the invention, the platform may be an Internet and intranet-based Application Service Provider (ASP) communication platform, such as a Microsoft™ ASP.NET Platform. [0013] With the Platform of the present invention, Users can send and receive Communique(s) with the assurance that all parties fully understand the information exchanged; can use any existing digital material, regardless of the source including but not limited to video and audio files, both streaming and non-streaming, text, data, files, electronic payment systems, time management systems, URL's, and additional multimedia formats; can create new digital material; can create intellectual property that is captured and catalogued for future use; can communicate synchronously using one or more of the following: real-time instant message, real-time group chat, and can communicate asynchronously using one-way or two-way streaming audio/video, content creation, threaded group chat, bulletin board and email.

[0014] Users of the Platform of the present invention may choose whether to communicate in "real-time" or asynchronously. Each Communique can be unique and targeted at one or hundreds of Users. Alternatively, Communiques can be used repeatedly with different Users each time. Users create intellectual property that is unique to them and/or their organizations every time they create new Communiques using the Platform. There is no requirement to use pre-packaged templates, providing Users with flexibility to create any kind of Communique. The Platform may offer some templates to provide guidance to Users if they choose. The Platform is content neutral, so any User in any profession can take advantage of it.

[0015] The Platform combines several technologies to provide Users with an extremely reliable, simple to use, and exceptionally fast centralized Internet and intranet- based communication environment. It captures and stores all communications among Users. The Platform may use WINDOWS file formats for easy recognition and retrieval by authorized Users.

[0016] Users may utilize the Platform in real-time via group chat or instant messaging, or at different times via the Platform's unique asynchronous communication process. Users may incorporate any existing or newly created digital content into Communiques such as lesson plans, homework, tests, quizzes, special instructions, or other types of communications. The Platform ensures all Users will understand the Communique in question by leading them through a streamlined step-by-step process.

[0017] Users of the present invention create Communiquέs any time of day or night, and from anywhere in the world with Internet or intranet access, using a unique free form format. The Platform provides maximum flexibility concerning the content selected, and the instructions accompanying the content. It has an unlimited storage capacity, enabling Users to include in their Communiques an unlimited number of files, URL's, and streaming audio/video clips. There are no required file downloads, which minimizes bandwidth issues. However, Users may download files at their option. [0018] The Platform can communicate with other systems through "plug-ins" developed at the request of clients. Integration with other platforms, such as Learning Management Systems, Learning Content Management Systems, Live Web Meeting formats, and Live Web Training Platforms, enables Users to leverage the power of other platforms for their use.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] FIG. 1 shows a functional design diagram of a Platform according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 2 shows the technology architecture for a Platform according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The present invention provides a centralized Internet and intranet-based communication platform (the "Platform") that provides instructors, students, subject matter experts, coaches, mentors, consultants, advisors, managers, counselors, and teachers (collectively the "Users") with live and asynchronous channels for the purpose of the creating, storing, disseminating, retrieving, manipulating and responding to communication packages ("Communiques"). In embodiments of the invention, the platform may be an Internet and intranet-based Application Service Provider (ASP) communication platform, such as a Microsoft™ ASP.NET Platform.

[0022] The centralized Internet and intranet-based communication platform of the present invention is accessible with Internet or intranet access and a web browser, and optionally a portable web camera with an integrated or separate microphone. The system is a unique communication platform with fully integrated streaming audio and video messaging technology. The system is content neutral. The centralized Internet and intranet-based communication platform is highly scalable, with seamless enterprise integration. A fully integrated database gives Users easy, web-based access to data creation and retrieval. [0023] With the centralized Internet and intranet-based communication platform of the present invention, Users may do one or more of the following: (1) communicate in over 100 languages; (2) create/receive an unlimited number of Communiques containing an unlimited number of tasks, assignments, tests, URL's, files of unlimited size, questions, audio and video files, both streaming and non-streaming, or quizzes; (3) set account preferences at the administrative level; (4) receive customized menus and reports; (5) browse and add an unlimited number of files without limitation on file size; (6) insert an unlimited number of relevant URL's; (7) review Communiques as they are prepared; (8) insert multiple choice / multiple-select question, a true/false question, an essay question, a fill-in-the-blank question, a rank ordering question, a drag and drop question, a matching question, or use a question bank; (9) create and receive streaming audio and/or video of any length; (10) use real-time, fully integrated group chat or private one-on-one chat; (10) use real-time, fully integrated instant messaging; group threaded chat; or (11) post items or announcements to a digital bulletin board.

I. MARKETS

[00241 The Platform of the present invention is ideally suited for language instruction; teaching hospitals; colleges and universities; secondary schools; instructor led training programs for corporations, military, and intelligence agencies; the subject matter expert (SME) sector; sales and marketing; coaching and mentoring; project management; political or product campaigns; and operational communications in sales and marketing, coaching and mentoring,-project management, political or product campaigns, corporations, military, or intelligence agencies. [0025] In embodiments, the Platform may be used, for example, in the instructor led training ("ILT") market or the subject matter expert ("SME") market. These two markets often overlap. In general, the ILT market represents training in a formal classroom sense. The SME market is usually informal, and may encompass coaches, mentors, authors, scientists, political, financial, and business consultants, and military and government personnel, among many others.

A. The Instructor Led Training Market

[0026] The ILT market is much broader thanjust Information Technology. lt includes all formal training/education markets where instructors present their material to students in real-time in physical or virtual classroom settings. This includes training/educational programs sponsored by commercial organizations, government agencies, military services, associations, non-profits, K-12 schools, colleges and universities, community and junior colleges, and trade schools.

[0027] The Platform of the present invention combines the best of instructor led training, with leading edge e-learning technology and Internet and intranet based software and technology to produce both asynchronous and real-time channels between instructors and students. The Platform is a highly sophisticated, yet simple to use, teaching Platform designed for use by instructors and students when out of the classroom. The Platform enables instructors to create and disseminate coursework, such as tests and homework assignments, that include multi-media segments with interactive features; and it permits students to take tests and complete the assignments regardless of their location or bandwidth limitations.

[0028] With the Platform of the present invention, students and instructors get the benefits of live and asynchronous instruction. The Platform automatically creates searchable databases for individual instructors and students. Administrators set access privileges so that they, and other instructors and administrators, may view courses, lesson plans, quizzes, tests, etc., for use in their courses. Original files may be read-only, but may be copied and used in part or in whole by other instructors. Reporting is extensive, and fits the needs of individual Instructors, administrators and students. [0029] The Platform provides e-learning solutions to the live classroom market. In embodiments, the Platform augments, but does not replace, traditional ILT. The Platform introduces e-learning efficiencies into live, instructor led-classes, while preserving the integrity of the classroom environment. It captures, stores and catalogues intellectual property created by the instructors and for the organizations they serve. [0030] In addition to supporting the instructors, the Platform enables them to create virtual office hours that provide one or more of streaming audio/video, live group chat, instant messaging and threaded group chat Q&A Project Modules between students and instructors from any location with Internet and/or intranet access. By imbedding video responses into instant messages or group chat, the instructors can provide near synchronous, full speed video answers to students in the field. The responses may include a video of the instructor, files, or other multimedia content deemed to be of help to the student. Virtual office hours enable learning centers to deploy less expensive instructors who need not be experts themselves. Moreover, the environment helps strengthen the student-instructor relationship.

B. The Subject Matter Expert Market [0031] SME's exist throughout private industry, government at all levels, all of the military services, associations, and non-profit organizations. The educational level of SME's varies greatly, from self-taught individuals to PhD's. SME's typically focus on narrow areas of expertise, and operate either as independent contractors, or within formal organizational settings. They may be coaches and mentors, tutors and supervisors, military personnel and government employees, to name just a few examples. The dissemination and understanding of information by the SMEs' audience is usually critical to the success of their missions, tasks, projects, etc.

[0032] SME's derive their value from their ability to share their unique knowledge with others. This is done through a variety of ways, such as seminars, books, CD ROM's, DVD's, VHS tapes and audio tapes, email, and one-on-one or in live group meetings. Interaction between SME's and their audience is usually controlled by the SME's. However, their effectiveness is generally limited by time, distance, and cost. [0033] The Platform of the present invention is ideal for operating environments where the dissemination and understanding of information is critical to the success of missions, tasks, tactical plans, and other operational objectives. Sales managers, project managers, team leaders, customer support units, 24X7 call center personnel, campaign managers, and military personnel are just some of the subject matter experts who can use the Platform of the present invention.

[0034] The Platform offers both asynchronous and real-time channels between subject matter experts and their team members. The Platform's live group chat, live threaded chat, instant messaging one-way or two-way , streaming audio/video capabilities, including multi-media segments with interactive features, email, and digital bulletin boards enable the exchange of critical communication between staff and line positions, and directly between operational units. Information is immediately available to the User community on a "need to know" basis. Reporting is extensive, and fits the needs of individual Users. It captures, stores and catalogues intellectual property created by Users and for the organizations they serve. [0035] The Platform serves as a central repository for information from any digital source that is included in projects. Oversight is significantly easier, efficiency is greatly improved, redundancy is eliminated, transition due to arriving and departing Users is faster, security is assured, and operating costs are reduced when the present invention is deployed. [0036] The Platform enables SME's to create virtual office hours. Through fully integrated streaming audio/video, live group chat, threaded group chat, instant messaging

Q&A sessions, and digital bulletin boards, SME's are able to communicate from any location with Internet and/or intranet access. By imbedding video responses into instant messages or group chat, the SME's provide near synchronous, full speed video answers to team members in the field. Responses may include a video of the SME, files, or other multimedia content deemed to be of help to their team member. Organizations can deploy less expensive training personnel who need not be experts themselves because they are part of the network supported by a SME. Moreover, the Platform environment helps strengthen the SME-team member relationship.

II. PRODUCT DELIVERY

[0037] In embodiments, delivery of the centralized Internet and intranet-based communication platform of the present invention may occur through, but is not limited to, three distinct business models: Business to Consumer hosted by the Company (B-to-C); Business to Business hosted by the Company (B-to-Bl); or Business to Business hosted by Clients (B-to-B2).

A. Business to Consumer Hosted by Company

[0038] The Platform of the present invention may be sold worldwide through an e- cornmerce web site, channel partners, an internal sales force, an external sales force, or a combination of two or more of the same. A Primary Subscriber (e.g., Instructors and SME's) gets his or her own web page with, for example, minor personalization of color choices and insertion of unique identifying information of the Primary Subscriber. Payment may be by credit or debit cards using a highly secure e-commerce feature that is fully integrated with the Platform. The Primary Subscriber purchases licenses and storage capacity in pre-determined blocks, and controls access to the licenses purchased. Primary Subscribers may be individuals or businesses. In embodiments, subscription periods may be for one month to several years.

[0039] The Primary Subscribers may resell their licenses to their target audience at prices determined by them. Primary Subscribers can use the e-commerce features of the Platform to charge their clients for access to the Primary Subscriber's services. Each Primary Subscriber can also use the catalogue of products and services feature offered by the Company to list and sell their products and services to their clients. This enables SME's and Instructors to create and operate web-based businesses with virtually no set up costs. Customer support via email, live chat, instant messaging, or phone may be available, for example, on a 24 x 7 basis.

B. Business to Business fB-to-Bl) hosted by a Company

[0040] The Platform of the present invention may be sold worldwide through an e- commerce web site, channel partners, an internal sales force, an external sales force, or a combination of two or more of the same. Business clients may sign commercial contracts to purchase subscriptions on a per seat basis for periods of, for example, one to several years. Business clients pay on commercial terms. Customization is available to give the business clients' Platforms their own look and feel. Like the B-to-C version, B-to-Bl clients purchase licenses and storage capacity in pre-determined blocks, and control access to the licenses purchased.

[0041] Business Client(s) can resell the Platform to their customers. Each Business Client may also use the catalogue of products and services feature offered by the Company to list and sell their products and services to their clients. The e-commerce features may also be available to B-to-Bl clients to collect fees on resold services and to pay for other products and services offered by the clients to their customers. Customer support via email, live chat, instant messaging, or phone may be available, for example, on a 24 x 7 basis. C. Business to Business (B-to-B2) hosted by Clients

[0042] Business clients host the Platform of the present invention on their proprietary sub-systems (a private web site). In embodiments, B-to-B2 clients pay a one-time site license fee, plus a fee for the number of licenses the organization intends to use during the contract period. In embodiments, after one year, the client may pay an annual maintenance fee of a percentage of the total first year cost plus any licenses purchased in addition to the initial number. Contract periods may be, for example, from one to several years. [0043] B-to-B2 clients are offered significant customization packages to make their

Platform site as unique as possible. The Company negotiates customization packages on a case-by-case basis. The customization cost is borne by the B-to-B2 client. Customization includes the development of "plug-ins" at the request of clients. The plug-ins communicate with other technologies identified by the clients, as necessary, to integrate the Platform with their proprietary or other third party systems. Customer support via email, live group chat, threaded chat, instant messaging, or phone may be available, for example, on a 24 x 7 basis. Site visits may also be available by appointment.

III. ADMINISTRATION OF THE PLATFORM

[0044] In embodiments, there may be two levels of Administrators: Super Administrators and Administrators.

[0045] The Super Administrator role is held by the host Company employees. Super

Administrators have access to "all B-to-C and B-to-Bl customer accounts. The only exception is in cases of the B-to-B2 model, where the client organization hosts the Platform internally on its server. Thus, the client organization also has Super Administrators, since they are hosting all of the data on their proprietary servers.

[0046] Super Administrators monitor and troubleshoot accounts. Super

Administrators are also responsible for setting up the Platform for Users. In embodiments, the Super Administrator may be responsible for initial setup of an e-Commerce page for Users. Super Administrators may perform all functions of the Administrator and Users.. [0047] In all three business models, Administrators work for the organizations contracting for the Platform. Each Administrator is assigned an administrator account. There are no limits to the number of Administrators in the B-to-B models. Each Administrator sets rights and privileges for Users. The sole proprietor Instructor or SME acts as Administrator and Instructor or SME. Administrators determine what information Instructors and SME 's may access, and what information they may share among themselves. In the B-to-B models, Administrators have full access to all User accounts, although Instructors and SME's typically control the content and rights of the Students or Team Members. The Administrator can access all content, records, User data, and the like within their Platform environment (i.e., can access all data as Administrator and Users.)

[0048] In embodiments, each team member or student is assigned an Instructor or

SME account by either an Administrator in the case of the B-to-C and B-to-B 1 business models, or by a client Administrator in the B-to-B2 business model. There are no limits to the number of Instructors or SME's in any of the models. The Instructor or SME account is a powerful, fully integrated tool that enables Instructors or SME's to gain access to all tools associated with the Platform below the Administrator level. [0049] FIG. 1 is a schematic design diagram of the Platform of the present invention and shows the relationship between the functions of Super Administrators; Administrators; Instructors or SME's and students or team members. FIG. 1 also shows the Platform website interface and the features and functions of the Platform.

IV. PRODUCT FEATURES AND FUNCTIONALITY

A. GENERAL FEATURES

[0050] The centralized Internet and intranet-based communication platform of the present invention is completely Internet or intranet based. No plug-ins are necessary to run the Platform. The only exception may be to download necessary font files to use languages other than the standard character sets already provided by Microsoft WINDOWS. The

Platform may be used with or without a web camera/microphone. In embodiments not using a camera or microphone, a User will not be able to record audio/video files. [0051] Table 1 shows an illustrative list of languages offered as part of a Platform according to an embodiment of the present invention: TABLE 1 - Languages Offered

[0052] As shown in Table 1,, the Platform offers Users the capability to input information in many languages and dialects. The default language of the Platform is English (American). However, the default language may be changed for international markets to, for example, Spanish, French, German, Arabic, or Chinese.

[0053] Logging out of the Platform will automatically save a copy of the User's work.

In embodiments, a popup window may appear confirming this Save and provide the User with the option to Save or Not Save prior to closing out. Individual files will be saved according to which task the User was performing.

B. ADMINISTRATOR

[0054] Accessing the Administrator account of the Platform, the Administrator may view one or more screens or web pages in order to register Users and set up the corresponding screens or web pages accessible by Users.

1. Registration

[0055] In embodiments, Administrators have the ability to register Users. In embodiments, the Platform may have a Registration screen that contains one or more of the following fields:

User Name; User LD. Number; Password; Confirm Password; First Name, Middle Name/Initial,

Last Name; User Type (e.g., Teacher / Student); User Term (e.g., dropdown menu based on Instructor/Student/SME/Team Member); Class; Course; Address; City; State; Zip/Postal Code; Country; Date of Birth; Sex: M/F; Company Name; Email Address; Provide Email Address to fellow Students or Team Members? Y/N; Telephone; Fax; Secret Password Question; or Secret Password Answer.

[0056] In embodiments, the Platform may be configured for the Administrator to decide which User fields would be required. The Platform may automatically generate a User Identification number which can be used for tracking purposes. The Registration Screen may also contain fields for entering a User into multiple Classes/Courses/Projects/Project Modules. In embodiments, registering a User automatically provides access to all features of the Platform (e.g., chat, bulletin boards, instant message, etc.). [0057] The Administrator has ability to suspend access to Users. Once the Administrator lifts suspension, the User will have full access to Communiques received during suspension period.

2. Search Users — User Maintenance

[0058] The Administrator may search for Users via one or more of the following criteria: User Name; First Name; Last Name; Email Address; User Type; User I.D. number; Class; Course; Company Name; or Product or Service. The Administrator may sort any search results either alpha-numerically or by date. In embodiments, clicking on top of a column automatically sorts, clicking again reverses the order. The Administrator may edit any User's information from this section. When Edit User is selected, the Registration Screen appears with current User data. The Administrator may make any adjustments necessary and click Save.

3. Curriculum / Syllabus Set Up

[0059] The Administrator may create a Curriculum and/or a Syllabus for a Course or a Project. The Curriculum is a set plan for a Course,^" Class/Project/Project Module to follow. Learning and project objectives may be determined at this set up. A Curriculum is not required to create a Course, Class, Project, or Project Module.

4. Course Creation / Set Up [0060] The Administrator may create Courses, Classes, Projects or Project Modules.

Courses or Projects may have multiple Classes or Project Modules each teaching the same content, but organized differently due to any number of reasons (e.g., Mon-Wed-Fri class vs. Tues-Thurs class; Algebra II in English and Algebra II in Spanish). A Course or Project may also be called a Program, Curriculum, Group, Category or Seminar. The default term is Course or Project, but may be changed at will by the Administrator, using one of the optional terms provided. This change of term will be reflected throughout the Administrator's/Instructor's/SME's site.

[0061] To create a Course or Project, the Administrator fills out one or more of the following fields: Course or Project Title; Course or Project Term; Course or Project Description; or Instructor or Subject Matter Expert.

[0062] In embodiments, the Platform automatically tracks the date the Course or Project that was created.

5. Class or Project Module Creation / Set Up

[0063] The Administrator may create Classes or Project Modules. Classes and

Project Modules are subsets of Courses and Projects. A Class or Project Module may also be called a Module, Lesson, Session, Tutorial, Company, Lecture, Lesson, Drill, or Breakout Session. There can be multiple Classes or Project Modules within a Course or Project category.

[0064] The default term is Class or Project Module, but may be changed at will by the

Administrator, using one of the optional terms provided. This change of term may be reflected throughout the Administrator' s/Instructor's/SME's site. Each Class or Project

Module may have a different name (i.e. Module, Lesson, Session, etc.). A Course or Project may be previously set up to create a Class or Project Module.

[0065] To create a Class or Project Module, the Administrator fills out one or more of the following fields: Course Title (e.g., may perform a Keyword, Name Search to fill this field); Class or Project Module Term (e.g., dropdown menu selecting name: Module, Lesson, Project Module, etc.); Class or Project Module Title; Class or Project Module Description; Teacher/Instructor; How many Students or Team Members allowed per Class or Project Module; Class or Project Module start date/end date. In embodiments, the Platform may be customized to allow for Students or Team Members to self-register for Classes or Project Modules.

[0066] In embodiments, the Administrator may adjust User status to Active, Inactive, or Hold. Users on Inactive status do not count towards Subscriber limit. Inactive status means User was an active but is no longer actively using a license. Users on Hold status count towards Subscriber limit. Hold status means that, for whatever reason, the Administrator/Teacher has pulled User's access temporarily. While on Hold, the Student account will still receive Communiques; however, the Student can not access their account until the Administrator or Teacher has lifted the Hold status.

6. Course-Class/ Project-Project Module Search

[0067] In embodiments, the Administrator may search for a Course/Project or

Class/Project Module by one or more of the following criteria: Course/Class or Project/Project Module Title; Keywords within Course/Project or Class/Project Module Description; Instructor or SME; or Date created. A search may be performed with the first letter, letters or words within a Course/Class title, name, etc. A search may be performed by identifying a date span. In embodiments, the Administrator may sort any search results either alpha-numerically or by date. Clicking on top of column automatically sorts, clicking again reverses the order.

7. Instant Message

[0068] The Administrator may enable or disable the Instant Message feature. The

Administrator may pull Instant Message conversation records.

8. Bulletin Board

[0069] The Administrator may set up a Bulletin Board for each Course/Project and/or

Class/Project Module. A Course/Project or Class/Project Module does not require a Bulletin Board.

9. Calendar

[0070] The Administrator may set up a Calendar for each Course/Project and/or

Class/Project Module. Users may see the Calendar on their User Page. The Administrator may add items to Course/Class or Project/Project Module Calendar. In embodiments, Users may synch the Calendar with their MS Outlook calendar.

10. Group/Class Chat

[0071] The Administrator may enable or disable the Class Chat feature on a Student,

Team Member or Class or Project Module level. Class or Project Module Chat will automatically display Class or Project Module chat rooms for those in which the Student or Team Member is enrolled. Team member or Student will not have access to class or Project Module chat rooms for other classes or Project Modules within a course or Project unless permission is given at the Administrator level. The default look and feel of the Class or Project Module Chat may comply with the settings of the Instant Message tool.

11. e-Commerce

[0072] The Platform of the present invention allows the Administrator to manage their own e-commerce page. Administrators may sell their Courses or Projects and other products to the public. The Administrator has limited ability to edit and modify their e- Commerce page. Fields that the Administrator may edit include, but are not limited to, one or more of Product Description, Product Price, or Product Picture.

C. INSTRUCTOR OR SME [0073] An Instructor or SME may also be an Administrator. If the Instructor or SME is also the Administrator, then the Instructor or SME has full capability to perform all

Administrator functions. In addition, an Instructor or SME creates content for Students or Team Members or Team Members as discussed below. An Administrator sets up Courses or Projects and may create content, but content creation is more the role of the Instructor or SME [0074] In embodiments, Instructor or SME may update some elements of their User

Profile. Instructor or SME may add to the Bulletin Board(s). Instructor or SME may add to their Calendar, which may contain information from multiple Courses/Projects and Classes/Project Modules. Instructors or SMEs may also add to Student/Team Member Calendars (e.g., upcoming exams). Instructors or SMEs' may restrict access of specific tools to Student(s) and Team Member(s), for example, Bulletin board, Class or Project Module Chat, Instant Message, and Email. An Instructor or SME may perform all functions that a Student or Team Member is authorized to do.

[0075] The default setting is that Instructors or SMEs have access to only their

Courses/Students or Projects/Project Modules. However, in embodiments, the Administrator may provide Instructors or SMEs' access to other Courses or Projects.

D. STUDENT/TEAM MEMBER

[0076] A Student or Team Member may not have Administrator or Instructor or

SME access. A Student or Team Member may purchase/register for a Course or Project via the Instructor or SME Platform homepage. Students or Team Members may update elements of their User Profile. Students or Team Members may add content to the Bulletin Board(s). Students or Team Members may also add to their Calendar on their Student or Team Member Page.

[0077] Upon logging into the Platform, a Student or Team Member will be taken directly to their Student or Team Member Page. Students or Team Members have the choice of one or more of the following actions: [0078] 1. View new/current Communiques (Communiques may be sorted according to Course/Class or Project/Project Module Title and then by Date); [0079] 2. View/search Communiques (User can search for past and present

Communiques. Communiques may be displayed with a status indicator, for example, Communique new; Communique incomplete; Communique completed; or Communique completed and graded by Instructor or SME);

[0080] 3. Calculate grade for course/class and results for Project/Project Module to date (May be a preference set up at Instructor or SME level as to whether or not they want their Students or Team members to be able to see their current grade or results); [0081] 4. Check messages (Students or Team members may post messages to other Students or Team Members on designated "open Class or Project Module contact list"); [0082] 5. Send an email (If a Student or Team member is part of the Class or Project Module email list, he or she may have access to other Students' or Team Member's email addresses);

[0083] 6. Create Audio/Video; [0084] 7. Launch Instant Message;

[0085] 8. Launch Group Chat;

[0086] 9. View/edit Bulletin Board; or

[0087] 10. View/edit calendar.

E. CONTENT CREATION

[0088] In embodiments, all Communique creation is limited to the Instructor or SME,

Students or Team Members may only create content in response to Communiques.

1. Create Communique

[0089] Communique is the default term for content created by Users. A

Communique may also be described as an Assignment, Homework, Task, Prep work, Exercise, Activity, Quiz, Test, Exam, Field Work, or other descriptive term chosen by the Instructor or SME. [0090] In embodiments, an Instructor or SME may create a Communique by clicking Create Communique and filling in one or more of the following data fields: Course; Class; Project; Project Module; Name the Communique ; or Enter Directions. Once any content is placed within the Directions field, a draft of the Communique may be automatically saved. In embodiments, the Communique may be accessible via View Draft Communique until saved as a Communique.

[0091] The content or data field may be used for any kind of written content. An

Instructor or SME may use the content field for secondary Communique Directions. The content field may be populated, for example, by "copying and pasting" content from another electronic file. In embodiments, there is no limit on the amount of text that can be entered into the content field. [0092] The Instructor or SME has the opportunity to search for and associate as many electronic files to the Communique as is necessary. The Instructor or SME may also enter and associate as many URL's as is necessary for creation of a Communique . [0093] In embodiments, the Instructor or SME can select whether or not he or she wishes to associate questions with the Communique being created. If opting to include questions in the Communique , the Instructor or SME may be directed to select one or more of the following: essay question, a fill-in-the-blank question, a rank ordering question, a drag and drop question, a matching question, a select all that apply question, and an image map question. [0094] In embodiments, the answer blank corresponding to a question may be set to default to accept any answer entered. Inputting an answer will require the User to input the exact characters entered by the Instructor or SME to gain a correct score. [0095] In embodiments, the Instructor or SME can select whether or not he or she wishes to associate audio or video files with the Communique. In embodiments, any audio or video file may be imported or may be created by the Instructor or SME using the Platform. [0096] The Instructor or SME may select "SCORM" when creating a Communique .

Once this has been checked, the Platform will maintain^" the necessary code to allow for the Communique to be housed within a SCORM 1.2 / 2004 environment (LMS).

2. Communique Verification/Modification

[0097] In embodiments, once a Communique is created, the Communique may be shown a Verify Communique Screen where he or she will be able to review, edit or delete any of the information that has been entered. The Instructor or SME may also be able to add more information/files to Communique at this stage. [0098] Once finished, the Instructor or SME may click "Save Completed

Communique". All relevant Save Criteria will be drawn from the Communique fields previously completed by Instructor or SME. In addition, the Instructor or SME may input keywords to associate with the Communique for aid in future searches. [0099] In embodiments, the Communique may be available for access via "View/Modify Communiques". From "Modify/View Communiques", the Instructor or SME can make any adjustments to the course as they see fit. They can also SAVE AS a Communique under a different name, thus having created an additional Communiquέ without having to start from the Create Communique screen. This is helpful for multiple classes under the same course.

Any Communique that has not been saved as a completed Communique may be retrieved from the 'View Draft Communiques' folder.

F. CONTENT DELIVERY

[0100] Once an Instructor or SME has completed a Communique, he or she may assign the Communique to a particular student, to a group of selected students, or to a class or multiple classes simultaneously. In embodiments, all those to whom the Communique is assigned must be listed under the same Course.

[0101] The Instructor or SME selects the Communique they wish to assign (e.g., from a drop down menu or a search). The Instructor or SME selects the Class or Project to which the Communique will be assigned (e.g., from a drop down menu or a search). In embodiments, the list of Students or Team Members registered for that class may automatically populate a Student or Team Member list. The Instructor or SME may either send the Communique to all Students or Team Members registered for that class, or may select desired Student or Team Member names, thereby limiting to whom the Communique should go. The Instructor or SME may also add Students or Team Members to whom the Communique should go. The Instructor or SME may also include a due date for the Communique. The due date may appear next to the Communique Name within each Student's or Team Member's 'My Communiques' list.

G. GRADING AND COMPUTING RESULTS

[0102] The Instructor or SME may grade or compute the results of submitted Communiques. The default is set for the Platform to automatically score all questions (with the exception of Written Response with blank answer field). The Instructor or SME may change default so the Platform does not automatically score all questions. In embodiments, a secondary default displays the correct answer to the Student or Team Member upon completion of each question. This secondary default may be changed to not display the correct answers to the Student upon completion of Communique. If this is set to "No Answer Display" then the student will receive proper answer feedback when reviewing their graded Communique. [0103} The Instructor or SME has the ability to make comments to each question or item included within the Communiquέ. In embodiments, the Instructor or SME may attach any electronic file to a Communique to be sent back to the Student or Team Member (e.g., "Review this document for more information"). These electronic files may be, but are not limited to, one or more of text documents, images, audio files, or video files.

[0104] Prior to completing the grading or computation of results of a Communique, the Instructor or SME may save the incompletely graded or evaluated Communique in an In Progress folder within the Student or Team Members Communiques section. The Instructor or SME has the ability to search for all Submitted Communiques via keyword, Course, Class, Student, and the like.

H. REPORTING

[0105] In embodiments, the Instructor or SME may run an individual report for a

Student's progress. Student or Team Member Reports may show overall grade(s) and results for a Course, Project, Class, Project Module, multiple Classes, multiple Projects Modules, and the like.

[0106] Clicking on an individual Class or Project Module title may display a list of all submitted Communiques for that Class or Project Module (on a single User basis). Clicking on any Communique title may display the completed and graded Communique. [0107] The Instructor or SME may run a report within a particular Communiquέ to view which questions were answered correctly or incorrectly. This data may be provided, for example, in X number of attempts / X number of correct responses / X number of incorrect responses. The report may also display the incorrect responses. [0108] The Instructor or SME may also run a report for an entire group of Students or Team Members. The group of Students or Team Members may be part of the same

Course/Project or Class/Project Module. Class Reports may be run to display Student or Team Member roster and overall average grades. Clicking on an individual Student or Team Member will display that Student's or Team Member's grades for that Course/Class or Project/Project Module. Clicking "more info" will display the Individual Student or Team Member report displaying a list of all submitted Communiques. In embodiments, Class or Project module Report data may be manipulated to display grades in order of highest score to lowest and vice versa or to display average grades or results, etc. I. AUDIO / VIDEO

[0109] In embodiments, the Platform of the present invention allows for the creation of streaming audio and video files. A/V files created on outside software may be imported into the Platform.

[0110] In embodiments, the process for creating streaming audio and video files may be as follows:

Clicking Create Audio/Video opens the Create Audio/Video screen;

User clicks either Record Audio or Record Video; Recording ends when User clicks Stop; User may preview the file if desired;

User names Audio/Video (e.g., file includes one or more of the following information Course Name, Class Name, Keywords, Description, Date Stamp automatically filled out); User clicks Upload and Save file.

[0111] Once an A/V file is confirmed as Saved, a link may be displayed that leads directly to the A/V file. This link may be copied and pasted into any other file (e.g., Instant Message window, email, or Group Chat). Clicking on this link will bring forth a popup playback window. [0112] The User may add Audio/Video files to Communiques during creation or afterwards. AU Users have ability to create Audio/Video files at any time. Administrators and Instructor or SMEs have some audio/video editing capability. Multiple A/V files may be merged. Multiple markers may be identified within all A/V files. To identify markers, the User may simply click a key while reviewing the A/V file. Once markers have been identified, the User may change their location within the timeline by dragging where (when) desired. Once markers have been identified, User may select Save Markers. [0113] The Instructor or SME may select one of the following settings for playback/display of Audio and Video files within a Communique: [0114] Display Video/Audio playback window throughout the Communique (Playback window is part of User interface on Communique Screen); [0115] Display Video/Audio playback window at beginning of Communique for initial viewing (After watching/listening to ATV file, the playback window closes. To access playback window, User clicks a link and a popup playback window appears at will); or [0116] Lock Video/ Audio playback window to be displayed only once in Communique (This setting limits the User to the A/V content).

J. INSTANT MESSAGE

[0117] A User's Username is the screen name for the Instant Message Tool. The

Group Chat feature may be part of the Instant Message Tool interface. The Instant Message Tool, when opened, may appear within the screen interface. The current screen displayed may automatically resize for viewing of both the content screen as well as the Instant

Message Tool.

[0118] In embodiments, if the User wishes to resize the Instant Message Tool, he or she may do so by grabbing corners and click/dragging to the desired size. Resizing the Instant Message Tool will automatically convert it into a pop-up window that appears above content screen. If resized, a User may drag Instant Message Tool to other on-screen locations. hi embodiments, the User may modify Font/Size/Color of text of the Instant Message tool.

[0119] The Instant Message Tool displays conversation text. Screen names and time of Users may precede each text entry. In embodiments, a User may record an audio or video file and paste the link into the Instant Message Tool. A User recipient of text entry clicks on the link to hear/view the audio/video file. Upon clicking the link, a separate pop-up window appears to play the A/V file.

[0120] The Instant Message Tool may have several types of icons, for example:

Smiling - User types :-) Grinning - User types :-0

Winking - User types ;-)

Sad - User types :-(

Angry - User types >:-(

[0121] In embodiments, sounds may play upon sending and receipt of text entries. A User may turn off sounds. A history of User conversations may be automatically recorded in a history file for later reference. K. GROUP/CLASS CHAT

[0122] A User's Username is the screen name for the Group Chat Tool. If Group

Chat is enabled, a tab will appear at the top of the Instant Message Tool with the name of the Group Chat. In embodiments, the name of the Group Chat is the Class. Users belonging to multiple Classes may display multiple Group Chat tabs. The Administrator and the Instructor or SME have the ability to enable Group Chat function for Classes. Group Chat allows any registered User (e.g., Instructor or SME or Student or Team Member) within that Class or Project Module to enter text for all to see.

L. BULLETIN BOARDS

[0123] In embodiments, Bulletin Boards may be visible at a User's "My Page" screen. A User may have multiple bulletin boards on the My Page screen. Multiple bulletin boards may be viewed within one frame with multiple tabs, for example, one for each Course/Project or Class/Project Module. Each registered User for each Course/Project and/or Class/Proj ect Module may automatically be part of the Bulletin Board community.

M. EMAIL

[0124] All Users have email capability within the Platform. The Platform will notify a User that a Communique is ready for viewing by sending an alert to the User's designated external email address. Users are able to send emails. In embodiments, clicking on the "Check My Messages" will open a "My Messages" popup window.

V. THE PLATFORM ARCHITECTURE

[0125] In embodiments, the Platform of the present invention may have a Microsoft

WINDOWS type file storage/retrieval system, which shows folders within appropriate hierarchy. Administrators and Instructor or SMEs have access to one or more of the following tools: Instructor or SME information; Student information or team Member information; Communiques; test results; audio/video files; templates; question bank.

[0126] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the technology architecture for the Platform of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2 , a centralized internet and intranet communication platform architecture comprises one or more sub-systems, for example, a web sub-system, a database sub-system, a data sub-system, a collaboration sub-system, a communications sub-system, an e-commerce sub-system, or a streaming sub-system, and combinations thereof. In addition, the Platform may allow seamless plug-ins as a natural and transparent part of the system. Plug-ins allow the use of robust third party software as an integral part of its operation. As far as end Users and other application add-ons are concerned, plug-in may bring major enhancements to the User experience as if they were native to the Platform. [0127] Heterogeneous applications may be connected through standard Application Program Interface (API). This allows applications to be written in a manner consistent with the operating environment of the Platform. Through extensible plug-in Application Programming Interface (API), the Platform of the present invention provides the capability to seamlessly integrate with one or more of the following technologies: Learning Management Systems; Learning Content Management Systems; Communication Systems, or Web-based Live Meeting Systems (embedded technology to provide a comprehensive and integrated multimedia conferencing portfolio on a global level. This allows the real-time access among Users of the Platform).

[0128] In embodiments, the Platform architecture may comprise a communications sub-system (embedded technology enable end Users to access the Platform through any handheld device, PDA's, blackberry devices, and cell phones). In embodiments, a streaming video sub-system may allow a sequence of pre-recorded video to be compressed and sent across the Internet and displayed by the viewer. It can also be distributed from a live feed in the case of real-time interaction among.platform Users. Due to the need of handling large traffic loads and the ability to broadcast live events, the streaming sub-system resides and is hosted in the Platform environment. In embodiments, the main streaming video formats may be Windows Media, Real Media, QuickTime, MPEG-4, or Flash. The main feature of the streaming sub-system is the ability to stream one or more of the following: Teacher/Instructor/SME Videos; Student Videos; Other Videos; or Audio/Video Editing. [0129] In embodiments, the Platform architecture of the present invention may also comprise an e-commerce sub-system that allows for web-shopping solution designed for

Platform Users. The e-commerce sub-system allows the Platform to quickly and easily gain new market share; attract new customers; receive and fulfill orders via the Internet; and provide Users with 24-hour access to on-line shopping and account research services. In embodiments, the e-commerce sub-system may have 128k or higher bit data encryption, secure sockets layer, and case-sensitive passwords to secure the data. All access to data is performed through Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) sub-system. This sub-system ensures that all customer data, credit card information, account information, and other administrative functions are fully encrypted from the sub-system to the browser.

[0130] The main feature of an e-commerce web store is quick purchasing, which may be achieved by saved shopping carts. Also included is the capability to serve end Users as guests with a first time registration and quick sign up as well as store User account information online for returning Platform end Users.

[0131] In embodiments of the present invention for providing centralized Internet and intranet-based communication, such as web-based training or communication between users having live and asynchronous links or channels for creating, storing, disseminating, retrieving, manipulating and responding to communication packages or Communiques, the method includes providing a Platform that is accessible by one or more Users, such as an instructor or one or more students; registering Users for the Platform by entering user-specific information; enabling or disabling one or more tools for the one or more Users, such as realtime instant message, real-time group chat, bulletin board, calendar, e-commerce, and combinations thereof; creating a Communique, such as an assignment, for the one or more Users, such as students, via a step-by-step process by the instructor or SME filling in one or more data fields; and; assigning the Communique to the one or more team members or students, where the one or more team members or students view, search, or complete the Communique by accessing the Platform. The registering of the Users may be by an administrator. Creating the Communique may include the instructor or SME performing one or more of: 1) entering text in a data field, 2) importing a text file into a data field, 3) associating a link by adding a URL link into a data field, 4) adding a question into a data field, 5) importing an audio file into a data field, 6) importing a video file into a data field, 7) creating an audio file, or 8) creating a video file. In embodiments of the method, the adding a question may include choosing one or more of a multiple choice question, a true/false question, an essay question, a fill-in-the-blank question, a rank ordering question, a drag and drop question, a matching question, a select all that apply question, and an image map question. One or more students may access the Platform and view the Communique, calculate a grade or the results for the Comminute, check e-mail messages, send e-mail messages, create an audio or video file, send and receive instant messages, access group chat, or view a bulletin board. The assignment may be automatically graded by the Platform. A report may be run on the one or more students to view completed and graded or evaluated Communique's.

[0132] In embodiments of the invention, the Platform, such as a web-based training or communication platform, may include a database subsystem, or database server, for storing user information and assignments, a web subsystem, or a web server, for providing internet access, a collaboration subsystem, or collaboration server, for providing e-mail, group chat, and instant message tools; and a streaming subsystem, or streaming server, for allowing streaming audio and video files. The Platform may further include plug-ins for integrating third party software, a camera or a microphone. The Platform may be accessible via the internet by a handheld device, personal data assistant, cell phones, or Blackberry^®-type devices.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for providing for centralized Internet and intranet-based communication between Instructors and SME' s having live and asynchronous channels for the purpose of creating, storing, disseminating, retrieving, manipulating and responding to Communiques comprising: providing an Internet and intranet-based communication platform; integrating streaming audio, streaming video, text, data, files, electronic payment systems, time management systems, URL's, and additional multimedia formats; controlling access to the platform and establishing credentials; populating the Instructor and SME database; limiting use of the platform and platform components by authorized Users; wherein a sender creates one or more communiques for one or more Users via a streamlined step-by-step process; providing at least one tool comprising a member selected from the group consisting of real-time instant message, real-time group chat, threaded group chat, one-way or two-way streaming asynchronous video and audio, multi-language selection, data mining and analysis, bulletin board, calendar, email, e-commerce, and combinations thereof; and making the communique available to the one or more Users, wherein said one or more Users access the Communique via the platform.

2. A method according to Claim 1, wherein said control of access, and populating the Instructor and SME databases is by an Administrator.

3. A method according to Claim 1, wherein said creating the Communique comprises the Instructor or SME performing one or more of: entering text in a data field; importing a text file into a data field; inputting a URL link into a data field; adding a question into a data field; saving a question into a question bank; importing a audio file into a data field; or importing a video file into a data field; creating a streaming audio file; creating a streaming video file; scheduling a real-time instant message session; scheduling a real-time instant message group chat session; selecting an alternative language character set; creating or adding to a threaded group chat; mining data; analyzing and/or summarizing data; creating or adding to an electronic bulletin board; adding to or editing the platform calendar; or sending an email.

4. A method according to Claim 3, wherein the adding a question comprises choosing one or more of a multiple choice/multiple-select question, a true/false question, an essay question, a fill-in-the-blank question, a rank ordering question, a drag and drop question, a matching question, a select all that apply question, and an image map question.

5. A method according to Claim 3, wherein the adding of a question comprises choosing a question from a question bank.

6. A method according to Claim 1, further comprising said one or more Users accessing the Platform and viewing a Communique, reviewing results based on a Communique, checking e-mail messages, sending e-mail messages, creating a streaming audio or streaming video file, sending and receiving instant messages, participating in an instant group chat, participating in a threaded group chat, accessing or editing their platform calendar or viewing a bulletin board.

7. A method according to Claim 1, wherein the Communique is automatically evaluated by the Platform.

8 A method according to Claim 1, further comprising data mining and viewing analyses on one or more Users to view completed and graded or evaluated Communiques.

9. A method according to Claim 1 wherein said platform comprises an Internet and intranet-based ASP communication platform.

10. An Internet and intranet-based communication platform of interconnected subsystems, comprising: a database subsystem for storing Instructor and SME information and Communiques; a web subsystem for providing platform access via a web browser; a collaboration subsystem for providing e-mail, group chat, instant message tools, bulletin board, threaded chat, and calendar; a media streaming subsystem for allowing streaming audio and video files.

11. An Internet and intranet-based communication platform according to Claim 9, further comprising plug-ins for integrating third party software.

12. An Internet and intranet-based communication platform according to Claim 9, further comprising a camera or a microphone.

13. An Internet and intranet-based communication platform according to Claim 9, wherein the platform is accessible via the Internet or intranet by a handheld device, personal data assistant, cell phones, Blackberry -type devices as well as iPod^®-type devices.

14. An Internet and intranet-based communication platform according to Claim 9, which is an Internet and intranet-based ASP communication platform.