Abstract: A system and method are provided for state management and workflow control. The system includes a metadata based state management system that can be used as a workflow control system. The system enables business rules to be separated from application logic, thus allowing businesses to easily change rules and adapt and respond to competition without requiring code changes. The system preferably includes database tables that interface with procedure calls in order to manage transactions in accordance with business rules. The business rules may include action permission rules that determine if a user is in a required state before allowing a selected action. A second set of rules determines an updated user state based on user actions.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods and computer storage media for providing an advertisement to a consumer in an online environment for utilization in an offline environment. The offline utilization of the coupon by the consumer allows for an amount owed to an advertisement-service provider by a merchant to be reduced. The advertisement-service provider provides, for a fee, advertising services for the merchant, which includes presenting a coupon to the consumer in an online environment. The consumer is presented with the coupon by the advertisement-service provider on behalf of the merchant. In one embodiment, the consumer stores the coupon for later redemption in an offline environment. The consumer purchases goods or service in an offline environment utilizing the coupon. The advertisement-service provider reduces an amount the merchant owes as a result of the consumer's offline redemption of the coupon.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for state management and workflow control. The system includes a metadata based state management system that can be used as a workflow control system. The system enables business rules to be separated from application logic, thus allowing businesses to easily change rules and adapt and respond to competition without requiring code changes. The system preferably includes database tables that interface with procedure calls in order to manage transactions in accordance with business rules. The business rules may include action permission rules that determine if a user is in a required state before allowing a selected action. A second set of rules determines an updated user state based on user actions.