Abstract: A system and method for assessing engagement activities and influence using consumer-specific promotions in a social network environment is provided.

Abstract: A system and method for characterizing viewers across multiple Internet activities is provided. A communication system communicates a personal identifier between a plurality of distant channels of promotions presented to a social network member of a social network communication system and a corresponding non-social network sponsoring business system of the promotions. A data analysis computer system tracks the personal identifier communications and generates a report to characterize the tracked data related to the promotions of the online non-social network sponsoring business system and the personal identifiers of the members.

Abstract: A system for cooperative characterization between a social network and computer systems outside the social network but operable within the social network system. Members of the social network are identified by a personal characteristic identifier readable by the outside computer systems.

Abstract: A system for spreading promotional content into a social network environment from outside the social network is provided. A computer server system monitors information associated with the promotional content and the communication steps associated with the outside-in communication and further inside communications or spread of the promotional content.

Abstract: A system is provided for assessing the historical engagement activities of a single user, and then altering the current presentation of engagement activities in accordance with a predetermined sequential series, or an algorithmic decision-tree, so that an optimized set of engagement options are presented to returning or recurring users. This system is capable of weighting each of the various engagement activities that have been clicked on by an individual, calculating an overall “engagement score”, and then presenting certain engagement activities based on that factor.

Abstract: Behavioral targeting to push promotional offers to a person, such as an artist, celebrity, athlete, politician, of a fan-based network is provided. The selection and redemption of promotional offers can increase by providing persons of a fan-based network with relevant and high value offers. In addition, marketing campaigns can increase their effectiveness with knowledge and identification of persons having a high degree of influence on other persons. A person's measure of influence is determined by characterizations of the person's fans based on monitored actions of the fans. Relevant promotional offers can be targeted to a consumer based indirectly on the actions of the fans of the consumer in addition to the direct behavior of the consumer himself. The actions and behavior of a consumer and his or her fans can be tracked within the fan-based network setting. Pushing relevant and high value offers enables rapid and viral spread of offers.

Abstract: A single unitary terminal configuration includes a card reader for reading data contained on a credit or debit card, a communications system for accessing a central database for authorization purposes, an input/output system for inputting alphanumeric data into the terminal, and for displaying audio and visual signals concerning the use of the terminal and the card's status, and a printer for printing data onto a receipt. The terminal preferably includes a fixed head magnetic card reader for reading magnetic stripes of credit or debit cards. The card reader is preferably of an insertion type having a card receiving channel opening at an edge of the terminal housing.