Abstract: A system for engaging in online advertising and merchandising of products or brands in or through social networks, examples of which include MySpace.com and Facebook.com. Consumers select products that they are or may be interested in, and post them to a social network for feedback and voting. The items or products selected appear in the consumer's status update, and can be posted for viewing by their network of friends. By clicking on the link, the friends of the consumer can accept and visit the application. The application may then allow the friends to view the product or item selections on which the consumer is seeking feedback. The friends may submit comments or observations about the available selections, and also may be able to vote for the product or products that they prefer, or provide a rating on a particular product or products.

Abstract: A system for using GPS or location-aware devices to solicit and collect rating information of businesses of interest. Businesses of interest include, but are not limited to, restaurants, gas station, bars, hotels, and motels. The user or consumer uses the GPS or location-aware device to rate the business, or its components, after having visited the business. The rating is a discrete number or letter grade. Alternatively, the user could provide open-ended feedback, which could be at the user's discretion. The device may be a handheld device with GPS capabilities, such as a personal digital assistant (PDA), cell phone, Smart phone, or the like. The device also may be a device used in a motor vehicle.