Abstract: A communication system that is capable of collecting information from one or more users of the communication system includes one or more data collection mechanisms that are operated by a first entity. The mechanisms operate to collect at least a portion of information from a user of a communication system on behalf of a second entity that is different than the first entity. The system also includes one or more memory modules that are coupled to the one or more data collection mechanisms and that are operable to store one or more records on behalf of the second entity. Each of the one or more records comprises information that is associated with a client of the second entity. At least one of the one or more records comprises at least a portion of the information collected from the user of the communication system. In one particular embodiment, the one or more records are controlled by the first entity.

Abstract: The invention is a system for encoding inputs and methods of operation thereof.

Abstract: A data entry apparatus includes a mosaic display as a template for inputting characters, by a stylus or other device. The displayed mosaic includes a plurality of segments, each represented by a tile area of the template. Inputted characters are recognized based on first and second tile areas contacted by the stylus or otherwise selected by an operator. The two tile areas may be the same or different, and may be the initial and final areas of the input operation. To enable character input by no more than two operations, hinge tile areas are provided, each representing selection of a plurality of standard tile areas. The system further recognizes input characters in response to a single input stroke, based on the initial and final tile areas thereof and, when the stroke is imprecisely inputted, by reference to directional characteristics thereof.