Abstract: A reward program is a type of “loyalty marketing” that typically utilizes a formal scheme to promote or encourage specific actions or behavior by a target audience. For instance, credit card companies have been known to offer “cash back” rewards to cardholders for using a particular credit card over some other form of payment. As another example, airlines are known to offer “frequent flier” mile rewards for electing to fly on a particular airline. The frequent flier miles can be traded in for travel discounts. Loyalty marketing concepts can also be applied to website applications. For instance, a website reward program can allow visitors an opportunity to earn virtual awards, e.g.: badges, titles, points, etc. Visitors can also earn awards that translate into real-world benefits, such as discounts, vouchers, etc.

Abstract: A reward program is a type of “loyalty marketing” that typically utilizes a formal scheme to promote or encourage specific actions or behavior by a target audience. For instance, credit card companies have been known to offer “cash back” rewards to cardholders for using a particular credit card over some other form of payment. As another example, airlines are known to offer “frequent flier” mile rewards for electing to fly on a particular airline. The frequent flier miles can be traded in for travel discounts. Loyalty marketing concepts can also be applied to website applications. For instance, a website reward program can allow visitors an opportunity to earn virtual awards, e.g.: badges, titles, points, etc. Visitors can also earn awards that translate into real-world benefits, such as discounts, vouchers, etc.