Abstract: A method of ranking user reputation in a multi-user network includes using a display interface to display various concepts for discussion to multiple users of the network. The method includes receiving, from a first registered user via a data interface, a discussion post and a ranking for one of the displayed concepts. Other registered users submit responses to the first registered user's discussion post, such that each response includes an indication of whether the response is positive or negative. The method includes determining, via a processing device, a reputation rank for the first registered user. The reputation rank calculation is based on a number of discussion posts received from that registered user, as well as a number of positive responses received from the other registered users for the first registered user's discussion posts. The method includes displaying the reputation rank to the registered users via the display interface.

Abstract: An idea collaboration system includes an innovation market that accepts and displays user-submitted ideas; a discussion section that allows registered users to comment on and ranking ideas; and an idea merit section that displays an indication of merit for the ideas. The indication of merit for each idea is based on at least: (i) a number of different registered users who have submitted comments for the idea; (ii) a determination of user interest for the idea; and (iii) a reputation rank for registered users who provided a positive ranking for the idea.