TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] The present invention relates to systems and methods for identifying and hiring service providers. Specifically the present invention allows users to search for specialized on-demand service providers, often for emergent needs. More specifically, present invention allows users having on-demand service needs to search for and identify service providers in their locale that are available immediately to provide services depending on the user's needs, or to set up an appointment for later service. The present invention further allows for easy and efficient measuring of time required to complete a service and automatic generation of an invoice based on the time tracked and other inputs, which can be paid by the user to the service providers directly and instantly

BACKGROUND

[002] It is, of course, generally known to utilize service providers at a home or business, depending on the needs of customers. Specifically, many service providers have specialized skills and offer their skills as services for hire by individuals with need of those skills. For example, certain specialized service providers include handyman services, moving services, lawn and garden services, snow removal services, cook/chef services, and other like services. However, service providers may also provide their skills free of charge as volunteers for events, for charities, or for other like reasons.

[003] It is, however, often difficult to identify service providers and their particular skill set when one is needed. Oftentimes, when a service provider is needed, one must access a printed guide, such as the Yellow Pages, or as more commonly done today, find a service provider using an internet search. However, with a printed guide or even with the Internet, it is often difficult to obtain specific information that may be useful in deciding whether to hire a service provider, such as rate information, location information, specialized skills, or other like information. The difficulties in obtaining service providers for particular services can continue even after a service provider is identified. Specifically, a person who needs a service provider often has difficulty contacting a service provider, setting up appointments, and discussing services needed. Often, services are needed on an emergency basis, and it is often difficult to simply identify a service provider that may be available to provide his or her services. [004] First, it is often difficult to reach a service provider. Many are small business concerns and have limited staff for receiving messages. Oftentimes, messages must be left on machines or in voicemail in the hopes that the service provider calls an individual back. And when a service provider is accessible, it is often difficult to get on the service provider's schedule.

[005] This may be particularly important in the case of emergent situations. Specifically, service providers are often needed due to emergencies, especially when equipment breaks down or damage occurs to a building. For example, in the case of a frozen or clogged pipe, a plumber is often necessary right away to fix the problem. Without availability by service providers, customers may spend inordinate amounts of time simply tracking down a service provider that can help them with their service needs.

[006] In addition, once a service provider is hired, it is further difficult to obtain an accurate gauge as to the amount of time that is spent on a project. Typically, service providers charge rates that are hourly or some increment of hourly. Therefore, the final cost is dependent on the amount of time spent on the project. As such, accurate tracking of time is required by both the service provider and the customer. More specifically, customers often have difficult verifying the amount of time that service providers spend on projects, and must often rely on the service provide himself or herself keeping an accurate measure of time. The customer may be or feel cheated by a service provider if the customer believes that the service provider is not accurately reporting time spent on the proj ect. And from the service provider’ s perspective when time is tracked accurately, this can still lead to unjustified accusations that are difficult to defend.

[007] Further, it can be difficult for service providers to obtain payment from customers on an expeditious basis. Oftentimes, invoices are sent to client based on services performed, and service providers must spend large amounts of time chasing payment from customers.

[008] A need, therefore, exists for improved systems and methods of identifying available service providers. More specifically, a need exists for improved systems and methods of obtaining service providers when needed by an individual.

[009] Moreover, a need exists for improved systems and methods that provide instant availability information concerning service providers. In addition, a need exists for improved systems and methods that allow users to identify and request services instantaneously when needed.

[0010] Further, a need exists for improved systems and methods for tracking service providers once on a job at a home or business. Still further, a need exists for improved systems and methods for billing services provided by the service providers and collecting money from the individuals.

[0011] Moreover, individuals may have skills that may be useful and may wish to provide services to earn additional income, but may not wish to work full-time as a service provider. For example, individuals may have a job or career in an unrelated field, and may wish to provide services on the side based on his or her skillset. In addition, businesses may have workers that have skillsets that could be useful, and may wish to hire these workers out as service providers, such as maintenance workers and the like. For these people, setting up and running a full-time business is not desirable based on their availability.

[0012] A need, therefore, exists for improved systems and methods that allow service providers the flexibility to work when they want. Specifically, a need exists for improved systems and methods that allow service providers to instantly inform potential customers whether and/or when they are available for providing services.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to systems and methods for identifying and hiring service providers. Specifically the present invention allows users to search for specialized on-demand service providers, often for emergent needs. More specifically, present invention allows users having on-demand service needs to search for and identify service providers in their locale that are available immediately to provide services depending on the user's needs, or to set up an appointment for later service. The present invention further allows for easy and efficient measuring of time required to complete a service and automatic generation of an invoice based on the time tracked and other inputs, which can be paid by the user directly.

[0014] To this end, in an embodiment of the present invention, a method of offering services by a service provider and obtaining services by a customer of a service provider is provided. The method comprises the steps of: providing a module resident on a server and accessible by a plurality of service providers via service provider computing devices and a plurality of customers via customer computing devices; accessing the module by the service providers, each inputting information concerning one or more services offered by the service providers; accessing the module by a customer and requesting a particular service offered by the service providers; displaying a map on the customer’s computing device showing location information of one or more service providers offering the service selected by the customer, wherein each service provider offering the particular service requested by the customer is displayed on the map via an icon, wherein each icon is coded based on whether the service provider is available to accept a service request or is unavailable to accept a service request; and selecting one of the service providers by selecting one of the icons on the map and sending a request for service to the computing device of the selected service provider.

[0015] It is, therefore, an advantage and obj ective of the present invention to provide improved systems and methods of identifying available service providers.

[0016] More specifically, it is an advantage and objective of the present invention to provide improved systems and methods of obtaining service providers when needed by an individual.

[0017] Moreover, it is an advantage and obj ective of the present invention to provide improved systems and methods that provide instant availability information concerning service providers.

[0018] In addition, it is an advantage and objective to provide improved systems and methods that allow users to identify and request services instantaneously when needed.

[0019] Further, it is an advantage and objective of the present invention to provide improved systems and methods for tracking service providers once on a job at a home or business.

[0020] Still further, it is an advantage and objective of the present invention to provide improved systems and methods for billing services provided by the service providers and collecting money from the individuals.

[0021] In addition, it is an advantage and objective of the present invention to provide improved systems and methods that allow service providers the flexibility to work when they want.

[0022] Specifically, it is an advantage and objective of the present invention to provide improved systems and methods that allow service providers to instantly inform potential customers whether and/or when they are available for providing services.

[0023] Additional features and advantages of the present invention are described in, and will be apparent from, the detailed description of the presently preferred embodiments and from the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The drawing figures depict one or more implementations in accord with the present concepts, by way of example only, not by way of limitations. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements. [0025] FIG. 1 illustrates a system and method representation showing service provider and customer access thereof in an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] The present invention relates to systems and methods for identifying and hiring service providers. Specifically the present invention allows users to search for specialized on-demand service providers, often for emergent needs. More specifically, present invention allows users having on-demand service needs to search for and identify service providers in their locale that are available immediately to provide services depending on the user's needs, or to set up an appointment for later service. The present invention further allows for easy and efficient measuring of time required to complete a service and automatic generation of an invoice based on the time tracked and other inputs, which can be paid by the user directly.

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a system 10 in an embodiment of the present invention. The system 10 comprises a module 12 having accessibility by a plurality of service providers and a plurality of customers, each of who may wish to utilize the app for the purposes described herein. The system 10 comprises a module or application 12 that may be resident on a server and accessible by one or more smart phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, desktop computers, or other like computing devices that may be utilized for this purpose, represented by service provider smart phone 11 and customer smart phone 13 on FIG. 1. Preferably, the module 12 may be accessible by a smart phone or tablet computer that is portable. Moreover, the module 12 of the present invention may be accessible via the Internet through portals that may be accessed via web browsers, or may be presented to users thereof in the form of an app through their computing devices 11, 13.

[0028] The system 10, illustrated in FIG. 1, shows module 12 having a service provider side 14 and a customer side 16 that may be accessible depending on whether the user is a service provider or a customer. Specifically, the service provider side 14 may be accessed via one or more computing devices 11 as noted above by one or more service providers that may wish to offer their services to customers. The customer side 16 may be accessed via one or more computing devices 13 as noted above by one or more customers that may wish to obtain the services of the one or more service providers.

[0029] Starting with the service provider side 14, one or more service providers may opt to join the system 10 to offer his or her services through the system 10 to one or more customers, as described in more detail below. Upon registration via step 18 by the service provider using his or her computing device 1 1, he or she may enter particular information concerning his account, including, for example, identification information, a password, and other like general information concerning himself or herself, and/or his or her business. In addition, particular information useful for the present invention include location information of his or her business, or of his or her smartphone or tablet computer, may be entered. For example, an option may be presented to the service provider to automatically obtain location information of the business location, his or her smartphone or tablet computer (identifying, therefore, immediate location information, assuming the smartphone or tablet computer travels with the service provider), or both. Alternatively, or in addition, the service provider may be provided an option to enter an address or other like location information into the system module 12. The location of the service provider may be done by location tracking information of the service provider’s smartphone or tablet computer, or via location information based on IP address or the like.

[0030] Further information may be entered by the service provider, such as information concerning one or more categories of services that the service provider may offer to customers. For example, and as listed in FIG. 1, the categories of services may include social services, more particularly free social services, moving services, handyman services, private tutoring services, chef/cook services at the customers’ homes, clothes ironing at the customers’ homes, party/event planning/decorating, lawn and garden care services, snow removal services, or any other service that may be offered by a service provider that is not covered herein. In addition, in some categories specialties or“skills” may be selected or entered by the service provider to more specifically designate his or her skills and offerings. For example, if“handyman” is selected by the service provider, he or she may be presented with further options to specify skills, such as“electrician,” “plumber,”“carpenter,” or other specific skills.

[0031] More than one category of skill may be entered by a service provider, and further more than one particular skill may be entered for any category of service, if necessary. Thus, a service provider that may have several different skills or services available may be able to communicate that fact to customers, according to the present invention, and as detailed below.

[0032] Further information may be entered by the service providers, including rates for providing the service, whether flat fee or hourly rate, bank account information for accepting payments, and promotions/discounts that the service provider may wish to offer to customers for selecting them. Of course, any other information may be entered by a service provider as necessary to communicate effectively his or her services and/or skill sets to potential customers, and the present invention should not be limited as described herein.

[0033] With respect to promotions or discounts offered by service providers, the module 12 may allow a service provider to select or define a promotion/discount and store the same on the module 12, whether active or inactive. When a promotion/discount is created or selected by a service provider, he or she may opt to activate the promotion/discount to attempt to convince customers to hire them. If hired when the promotion/discount is active, the invoice generated by the module 12, as described below, may automatically reflect the active promotion/discount.

[0034] Turning now to the customer side 16 of the module 12, customers may opt to register to the module 12 via one or more customer computing devices 13 of the present invention via step 20 so that the customers can obtain immediate information concerning local service providers, their particular services and/or skills, their billing rates, and their availability, as described more fully below. Upon using the system 10, the customers may register themselves with the module 12 and enter basic information, such as identity information, passwords and other like information to set up an account. More pertinent to the present invention, information concerning their location may be provided. For example, the module 12 may inquire whether the customer wishes to obtain his or her location automatically (via location determination means of the customer computing devices 13, or whether the customers wish to enter information directly into the module 12, such as address information, concerning the customers’ location, such as their home or business, via the customer computing devices 13.

[0035] Moreover, information concerning a payment method may also be requested and entered by the customer into the system 10, which may store the payment information with sufficient safeguards. For example, information on credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, or other like payment methods may be specified and automatically entered when a customer pays an invoice, as described below.

[0036] Once a customer registers his or her information into the module 12, the customer may be presented with an inquiry concerning the desired service needed by a service provider, via step 22. Specifically, the customer may be presented with a list of services offered by one or more service providers, as stored in the module 12. Specifically, the list of services offered to the customers may include social services, such as free social services, moving services, handyman services, private tutoring services, chef/cook services, clothes ironing services, party/event planning/decorating services, lawn and garden care services, snow removal services, and any other services offered. Moreover, if particular skills are needed, such as“electrical,”“plumbing,” “carpentry,” or any other skill, these may also be selected by the customer.

[0037] Once the particular service need is identified and selected by the customer, the customer may be presented with a map 24 showing all of the service providers in a defined area around the location of the customer 26 or another location entered by the customer. Preferably, by default, the customer’s location as determined by the module 12 may be used (called“My Location”), or the customer may have the ability to put any other location information, which may be useful if a customer is attempting to find a service provider at a location different that the location registered. For example, once the service needs are identified, the map 24 may appear on the customer’s computing device 13 showing all of the service providers found in the search via icons 28 for that service and/or skill within a 5-mile radius of the customer’s location. If no service providers for the particular service needs are identified the predefined distance, then the map may automatically zoom out until at least one service provider is contained within the map. If a service provider is not found within a predefined maximum range, such as within 100 miles of the customer, than a notification may be provided to the customer that no such service provider can be found within that predefined distance. Also, the customer may be provided with the function of zooming out or in on the map as desired by clicking on buttons for that purpose, such as a“+” button to zoom in and a button to zoom out.

[0038] If one or more service providers are shown on the map 24 and viewable by the customer on his or her computing device 13, each service provider may be represented by the icon 28, and each icon 28 may be further coded to indicate whether the service provider is available for hire, whether the service provider is unavailable for hire, or whether the service provider is busy at the moment but otherwise available for hire. For example, if the service provider identified on the map 24 is available for hire immediately, his or her icon 28 may be green. A service provider that is not available at all may have an icon 28 that is coded with a gray color. And a service provider that is busy but otherwise available for hire at a future time may have an icon 29 that is coded red. These visual icons therefore provide instant information to a customer as to their availability for hire.

[0039] The customer may elect to obtain further information concerning each service provider before deciding to hire, such as ratings information, rate information, whether flat fee or hourly, promotions/discounts offered, or any other information that may be desired by a customer and stored about the service provider. The customer may obtain such further information by selecting the service provider’s icon 28. Further information about the service provider may be presented to the customer, such as by opening a window with the information thereon.

[0040] The customer may wish to hire the service provider, if available, by sending a“service request” via step 30 to the service provider when the customer clicks on the icon, for example. When a request for hire is selected by the customer, contact information, such as a phone number, or a real-time chat box may be opened on the customer’s computing device that may offer real-time chat with the service provider so that the customer can relay information concerning the project to the service provider, to ask questions, or for any other purpose. The service provider may then accept the hire via step 32.

[0041] Alternatively, a customer may wish to inquire whether an unavailable or busy service provider (such as a service provider having an icon 28 colored gray or red) may be available at a future day or time, and so the customer may opt to“Touch” the service provider via step 30, which may send a message to the service provider that the customer wishes to engage the service provider in a future service. In the service provider wishes to open a dialog with the customer, the service provider may“Touch Back” via step 32. “Touch” and“Touch Back” are simply ways to ping a service provider and let them know that a potential customer has interest in hiring them, and gives the service provider the ability to contact them back to discuss in more detail, either by phone or via instant chat through the module 12.

[0042] Upon acceptance of a service request by a service provider, the module 12 may provide the location information of the customer and any other pertinent information concerning the customer and his or her location. Upon traveling to the location to perform the service, the service provider may select to“start service” via step 34, which may be communicated to the customer for confirmation thereof via step 36 so that the customer and the service provider are aligned about when service started. The customer may confirm the start of service by clicking a“Confirm” button that may appear on his or her computing device screen. This may be particular important if the service is based on an hourly rate, and the system 10 may thus track the amount of time the service provider spends on the service needed by the customer. Moreover, if the service provider pauses service, such as by taking breaks, lunch, attending to other matters, etc., the service provider may elect to“pause service” via step 34, and the pause in the service may be confirmed by the customer via step 36 by providing a“Confirm” button the customer computing device screen. This ensures that both the service provider and the customer are aligned and agree as to the amount of time worked by the service provider. Once finished, the service provider may elect to “end service” via step 34, which may be confirmed by the customer via step 36. If there are disagreements about when the service actually started, paused or ended, a chat feature may allow the customer and the service provider to discuss immediately to ward off any future billing problems.

[0043] Once the service is completed, an invoice may be generated via step 38 by the module 12, based on the rate information, the time spent on the service (if an hourly or time-based rate is charged), including materials purchased, or promotions/discounts given. Once the invoice is generated to the service provider’s satisfaction and the service provider approves the invoice by clicking on an“Approve” button on the service provider’s computing device 11, the invoice may be sent to the customer via the module 12, whereupon the customer may automatically pay the invoice via payment information stored on the module 12 via step 40 or via any other means apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0044] The system 10 of the present invention may have other functions and capabilities. For example, a service provider may be presented with options to track historical information about customers and/or services provided. Likewise, customers may also have stored information concerning historical data, such as information concerning service providers they had used in the past, rate information, and other like information. Moreover, if disputes arise, the system 10 may allow service providers to offer partial or full refunds.

[0045] Both service providers and customers may also be provided with options to rate each other, respectively. For example, a customer may be presented with the option to rate the service provider, but the service provider may also be presented with the ability to rate the customer. Therefore, if a customer is particularly difficult to work with, then a service provider may offer that assessment of the customer, which may be available to others. Therefore, while a customer can use ratings of service providers to decide to hire a service provider, a service provider may also use ratings of customers to decide whether to accept a service request from a customer.

[0046] Other particular information concerning specifics about the present invention is presented in Appendix A, which is incorporated herein. Specifically, Appendix A details other to features of the system 10 and, specifically, the module 12, whether as an application accessible over the Internet, an app accessible through an app store, or the like. Other features may include acceptance by both service providers and customers of terms and conditions, license information, password editing, and other like features.

[0047] It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. Further, references throughout the specification to“the invention” are nonlimiting, and it should be noted that claim limitations presented herein are not meant to describe the invention as a whole. Moreover, the invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosed herein.

APPENDIX A

NEEBU - Imagine Simple!

1. Overview

ON DEMAND services like Movers, Handyman, Cook, Event Decor, Private Tutor, Cloth Ironing, House Cleaning, Lawn/Garden Care, Snow Removal and FREE Social Services, for households and families. This app was developed for TWO main reasons:

Simplify the lives of customers; and Provide platform for skilled individuals or small businesses to earn more income

For customers:

FREE to sign-up

Flexibility to find service providers last minute (On DEMAND), or in advance

You get to pick the service providers based on factors like hourly rate, distance, customer ratings, etc.

Intuitive and Easy to use

For Service Providers:

FREE to sign-up

Platform to grow your small business or earn additional income for skilled individuals (You keep 90% of the fees, MUCH MORE than most other similar apps)

Get Good Customer Ratings to get more service requests from customers

Intuitive and Easy to use

2. Landing Page

At the top of the landing page, it should give the option to "Register/Sign-Up" in bold (or any other way to display so its easily visible to the user), if the user is not a member already. Below this, the user must enter their email address (required) and password (required) and two radio buttons underneath (user must select one of the two radio buttons listed below):

Log in as a Customer

Log in as a Service Provider

At the bottom of the page, there must be a "Submit" button. Clicking on the submit button takes the user to bullet #5 or bullet #6.

Below the "Submit" button, there must be a "Forgot Password" link. Clicking on this link takes the user to bullet #4.

3. Register/Sign Up

The Register/Sign-Up page asks the user to provide below information:

Option to register as a "Customer" or as a "Service Provider". User must select one option (required info)

First Name (required info)

Last Name (required info)

Email Address (required info)

Phone Number (required field).

Password (must be 8 characters long and must be a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters and must have at least one upper case letter) Re-enter Password (must match the above entered password)

Check box with the text "Allow the app to access my location", which must be a required field

Check box with the text "I have read and agree to the Terms and Conditions", which must be a required field and the italicized "Terms and Conditions" must be a link and when the user clicks on this link, a pop-up appears that has the text for terms and conditions provided in sub-bullet #3C below. Clicking anywhere outside the pop-up acts as a "Close Window" button and closes the pop-up

There must be two buttons at the bottom of this screen - "Register" button & "Cancel" Button. Clicking on "Cancel" button on this screen takes the user to the landing page. Clicking on "Register" button on this takes the user to either sub-bullets A or subbullet B below:

A. Complete Registration/Sign Up as a Customer

If the user selected "Customer" as the option during initial registration, he/she will end up on this screen, where the user sees the confirmation message "Registration Successful" and button called "Login Now", which takes the user to the Landing Page (bullet #2 above):

B. Complete Registration/Sign Up as a Service Provider

If the user selected "Service Provider" as the option during initial registration, he/she will end up on this page, where the user will complete their registration. This page will ask the user for below information: o Select one or more category of service that the user can provide from the list below (required to select at least one category). If the items listed below is followed by some text in "()", then there should be a "?" sign as a superscript next to that item and the text in the "()" should pop up, if the user touches on the "?" sign on their mobile app. The pop-up must disappear if the user touches anywhere on the screen, outside of the pop-up area (similar to clicking a "Close Window" button). The examples provided below must appear in fade font in the text boxes where the user is being asked to provide additional details.

^■ FREE Social Services - selecting this category presents the user with a text box, and asks them to enter specific services that they offer, (e.g.: individual counseling for rape, abuse and Incest victims; criminal justice system advocacy for rape, abuse and incest victims; etc.)

^■ Movers - selecting this category must present the user with a text box for additional details, e.g.:

"Two movers included in the hourly rate" or "Hourly Rate is for each mover", etc.

^■ Handyman - selecting this category presents the user with a text box, and asks them to enter specific handyman skill sets, (e.g.: Plumber, Electrician, Painter, Roofer, etc.)

^■ Private Tuition - Selecting this category must present the user with a text box where they need to enter which area/subject they can tutor in and the level of expertise, (e.g.: Grade 2 Math or Beginners French or Grade 7 History, or SAT, etc.)

^■ Chef/Cook (Implies you will go to the customer's house and cook food)

^■ Iron Clothes (Implies you will go to the customer's house and iron clothes)

^■ House Cleaning

^■ Party/Event Decorations (Implies you will go to houses or party/event venues and decorate)

^■ Lawn & Garden Care

^■ Snow Removal

Also, below each of the categories listed above, the user must be asked to enter their asking hourly rate for each selected service they are willing to provide (this is a required field for all other categories but not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category).

o Prompt for information that must be completed (required) to set up and save bank account information in user's profile, to receive payments from customers (Bank Name, Bank Account Number, Routing Number, etc.) (this is a required field for all other categories but not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category). o Two buttons at the bottom of the page: "Complete Registration" and "Cancel". Clicking the cancel button on this screen takes the user back to the Register/Sign Up page (bullet #3 above). Clicking "Complete Registration" button shows a pop up window with a confirmation message that says "If you are not a FREE Social Services Provider, you are legally binded to accept all payments vis this app, for all service requests received through this app. If you are a FREE Social Services Provider, you agree to offer your services at no cost to the customer.", followed by an "OK" button. When the user clicks the "OK" button, it must take the user to the same screen as sub-bullet #3A above, which has the confirmation message "Registration Successful" and button called "Login Now", which takes the user to the Landing Page (bullet #2 above). THIS IS THE ONLY POP-UP which does not disappear unless the user clicks on the "OK" button. Clicking anywhere outside the pop-up window MUST NOT close the window.

C. Below is the text for Terms and Conditions

"placeholder for terms and conditions" Forgot Password / Change Password

A. On the initial screen, the user must be asked to enter their email address, which must be the same email address that they provided during registration/sign up. Below the email address field must be a "Submit" button. When the user clicks on this button and if the email address provided here matches the email address provided during the registration, then the user must be emailed a randomly generated 8-digit numeric code and taken to the next screen (sub-bullet #4B below). If the email address did not match, same screen should re-appear with an error message to notify the user that the email address they provided did not match their registered email address.

B. This screen must notify the user to check their email for an 8-digit numeric code and enter it below. There must be space below, for the user to enter the 8-digit numeric code from their email and a "Submit" button. When the user clicks the submit button and if the 8-digit numeric code matches the one sent to their email, the user is taken to the next screen (sub-bullet #4C below), if the 8-digit code did not match with the one emailed, then same screen must re-appear with an error message to notify the user that the 8-digit code they entered did not match the one that was emailed to them.

C. This screen must ask the user for below info:

o Enter new password (must be 8 characters long and must be a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters and must have at least one upper case letter)

o Re-enter new password (must match the above entered password)

o "Submit" button

Clicking "Submit" button takes the user to a screen, which has the confirmation message "Password was Successfully Changed!" and button called "Login Now", which takes the user to the Landing Page (bullet #2 above). The user should also receive an email that notifies them that their password was successfully changed. Login as a Customer

A. After logging in as a Customer, every screen will have "Menu" option and "Back" button that can be easily seen by the user (may be "Menu" on the top right portion and "Back" button on top left portion of the screen, or any other position suggested on the screen that is easily visible). The "Back" button will be disabled on the first screen after logging in but will be enabled on every other screen to allow the user to go to the previous screen.

The details for the "Menu" button is provided in sub-bullet #5E below.

B. The user must be presented with the services listed below and asked to select the category of service they need (user must select one and only one category at a time):

o FREE Social Services

o Movers

o Flandyman

o Private Tuition

o Chef/Cook (Go to the customer's house and cook food)

o Iron Clothes (Go to the customer's house and iron clothes)

o Flouse Cleaning

o Party/Event Decorations (Go to Flomes or party/event venues and decorate)

o Lawn & Garden Care

o Snow Removal Below the category options must be the "Submit" button.

C. When the user clicks the "Submit" button, they see the next screen which is a map of the customer's location and small icons representing all the service providers within 5-mile radius from the user's location, for the category selected in the previous screen above (sub-bullet #5B above). If no one is available within 5-mile radius, the map must automatically zoom out to the level that shows at least 1 available service provider. If there is no service provider within 100-mile radius, the map loads at default of 5-mile radius and a pop up appears that notifies the user: No result found in "XYZ" category (the category selected by the user in the previous screen) in 100-mile radius. As any map, the user must be able to further zoom in or out and the search result must automatically refresh for the new zoom level selected. Also, the search result on the map should color code the icons for service providers as follows:

o GREEN for "available" service providers

o GRAY for "not available" service providers

o RED for service providers who are currently engaged in another task (busy)

The map will default to available service providers only. However, the customers will have the option to toggle back and forth between "Show Available Only" or "Show All"

On this screen showing the map, the top portion of the screen must also have a text box that defaults to "My Location" and allows the user to edit the text box to enter a specific address to perform the search around the provided address instead of the user's current location. There must be an "Enter" button to the right of the text box, which when clicked, updates the search results on the map, around the address entered by the user, instead of the user's location.

On the map displaying all the available service providers via icons, within 5-mile radius, if the user selects any of the icons, it will keep the user on the same screen but opens a small pop-up which lists the hourly rate info provided by the Service provider and the additional detail that the service provider entered during registration (e.g.: show the specific skill sets entered by the service provider, if the customer selected "Handyman" category in step #5B above OR show the specific subject/area and level of expertise entered by the service provider, if the customer selected "Private Tuition" category in step #5B above), along with a link that says, "More Info". The pop-up must disappear if the user clicks anywhere on the screen, outside the pop-up window (similar to clicking a "Close Window" button). Clicking on "More Info" takes the user to sub-bullet #5D below.

D. When the user clicks on "More Info" in the screen for #5C, they get to this screen where a more detailed profile of the Service Provider is displayed, which includes:

o Service Provider category (along with additional details for "FREE Social Services", "Movers", "Handyman" and "Private Tuition" categories)

o Service Provider Hourly Rate info (not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category)

o Service Provider Customer Rating - this is cumulative rating of all the ratings the service provider has received so far. there must be a link that says, "See Details", which when clicked, must open up a window that shows list of all the individual customer ratings for the service provider. If the list is longer than what fits on a single page, the list must grow as the user scrolls to the bottom of the page,

o "Service Request" button (for GREEN service providers only) - when this button is clicked, the customer's profile needs to be checked to see if they have a Payment Method (Paypal info or Valid Credit Card) on file. If not, the customer must be prompted "You have not set up your Payment Method. If you have selected 'FREE Social Services' category, then you will NOT be charged any fee for this service." followed by a "Set up Payment Method" button, in a small pop-up window, which will go away if the user clicks anywhere outside the pop-up window (similar to clicking a "Cancel" button). The "Set Up Payment Method" button when clicked, takes the user to their "My Profile" page described in sub-bullet #5F below. If payment method is already set up with a valid card on file, go to bullet #7.

o If the service provider selected is GRAY or RED, the "Service Request" button must be replaced by "Touch" button. When this button is clicked, the service provider gets a notification or alert that further gives the option to "Touch Back" the customer. When the service provider clicks "Touch Back", the app notifies the customer that the service provider is interested, and the app allows them to call or chat with each other. The service requested will appear on the top of the screen in sub-bullet #6C for the service provider, to allow them to "start" the service when appropriate.

E. When logged in as a customer, clicking on the "Menu" button opens a drop-down menu with the following options:

o Home (this must take the user to the initial screen that appears after logging in as a customer, which is subbullet #5B

o My History (this must take the user to the screen showing history of all the service providers they have used in the past, sub-bullet #5H below)

o My Notifications (this must take the user to sub-bullet #51 below)

o My Profile (this must take the user to the screen where they can edit their profile info, sub-bullet #5F) o My Promotions/Discounts (this must take the user to screen in sub-bullet #5J below)

o FAQs (this must take the user to the FAQ screen which has the FAQs listed under bullet #9 below) o Logout (clicking on this takes the user back to the initial login/landing screen, which is bullet #2)

If the user clicks on the "Menu" button again or clicks anywhere outside the menu dropdown area, the menu dropdown must go away

F. When logged in as a customer, "My Profile" screen displays the following info:

o First Name (Editable)

o Last Name (Editable)

o Email Address (Editable, but prompts a pop up window for password to successfully change the email address)

o Add/Change Payment Method (link or button)- the user must be prompted for password in a pop up window to successfully add/change payment method. If the password is accepted, the user must be taken to screen described in sub-bullet #5G below

o Change Password link (clicking on this link takes the user to bullet #4 above)

o "Save Changes" Button, which saves all the changes made but keeps the user on the same screen

G. Add/Change Payment Method:

o If a card already exists on file, this screen should display "Existing Payment Method" followed by masked card number with only the last 4 digits of the card visible to the user. There must be a "Change Payment Method" button below it.

o If no card exists on file, then there must be a message displayed that says, "You do not have any Payment Method on File". There must be a "Add Payment Method" button below it.

o "Go to My Profile" Button which takes the user back to their profile screen (when logged in as a Customer) as described in sub-bullet #5F

o If the user clicks on "Change Payment Method" or "Add Payment Method" button above, the user must be presented with a screen where the user must be asked to enter credit card info (Name on the card, card number, expiration date, CVV number, etc.) that he/she wants to use to pay for services. There must be a text below that says, "This card will be saved as your Payment Method in your profile". Below the text, there must be a "Update Payment Method" button, which when clicked must save the info and take the user back to the Add/Change Payment Method screen. There must also be a "Cancel" button, which when clicked takes the user to the Add/Change Payment method screen without saving any changes.

o Allow PayPal as a payment method option

H. My History o This screen shows the following columns - Date, Service Provider Category, Service Provider Name, Total Fees, button to rate the Service Provider, "Initiate Service" button or "Touch" button depending on service providers availability

o When the button to rate the Service Provider is clicked, it stays on same screen but creates extra space below the row to enter 1 star to 5 stars rating, text box for customer feedback, followed by a "Send Rating/Review" button, which if clicked, must keep the user on the same screen but add the rating and feedback to the Service Provider's profile. An email must also be sent to the Service provider informing them of the rating and customer review. The button must also be disabled by default unless the customer either provided any rating (1 star to 5 star) or provided comments/feedback in the text box.

o The "Initiate Service" button or "Touch" button has the same action as described in sub-bullet #5D above and allows the customer to re-book a previously used service provider again.

My Notifications

o this must show all the notifications that the user has received. If the list is long, the default list can contain enough that fit the screen and scrolling down must refresh the page to add to the list

o

J. My Promotions/Discounts (not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category)

This screen must display the following:

o "Promotions/Discounts Active on the account" text must appear, followed by the actual Promo/Discount Code that the user has already applied to their account in the past, which is currently in effect

o "Promo Code Description" followed by a description like "10% OFF ANY Service Fee" or "20% OFF

Handyman services"

o "Promo Code Effective Date" followed by the date that the user activated the promo code/discount code o "Promo Code End Date" followed by the date when the promo code/discount code ends or expires for that user

o "Apply New Promo Code" followed by a text box to allow user to enter a new Promo Code

o A message in bold below that says, "Applying a new promo code will replace any other Promo Code that is currently active on your account".

o "Apply Promo Code" button below the disclaimer that saves this promo code in the user's account and is taken into consideration when Neebu charges the customer's account after any service is completed (described in sub-bullets #7A and #7B), until the promo code expires for that user, or is replaced by another promo/discount code. If a user enters a Promo code that is already active in the user's account, the must be presented with an error message (on the same screen) that says, "Promo Code entered is already applied and active on your account".

Login as a Service Provider

A. After logging in as a Service Provider, every screen will have "Menu" option and "Back" button that can be easily seen by the user (may be "Menu" on the top right portion and "Back" button on top left portion of the screen, or any other position suggested on the screen that is easily visible). The "Back" button will be disabled on the first screen after logging in but will be enabled on every other screen to allow the user to go to the previous screen.

The details for the "Menu" button is provided un sub-bullet #5E below.

B. When logged in as a Service Provider, this is the first screen that appears. The user must be asked if they are "Available To Provide Services Now". By default, It must show the value selected by the user previously, or if this the first time ever that the user is logging in after registering, then it must show the user as available. The user can toggle their status back and forth here. At the bottom, there must be a "My Service Requests" button. Clicking on the "Submit" button takes them to sub-bullet #6C

C. On this screen, the user is presented with all job requests from customers, with the most recent one on the top.

The list must show service requests that fit on the page and the list must automatically grow (if there are more items to display) as the user scrolls down the screen. The information presented must include Date of request, Time of request, Category of service requested, Phone Number of requesting customer, "Start/End Service" button and "Pause/Resume Service" (when applicable) button. This will be categorized in three tabs: Requests Completed, Request In Progress and Requests Not Started

o Any service request that was completed by the service provider, must be moved automatically from

"Requests Not Started" tab to "Requests Completed" tab after completion (it will appear under "Request In Progress" tab while the service is being performed, which is from the time the "Start Service" button was clicked until "End Service" button was clicked). Also, for items listed under the "Requests Completed" tab, another column for "Date of Service Completion" must appear. Also, for completed services, the "Refund" button must appear for each service completed to allow the service provider to refund partial or full amount back to the customer for whatever reason. When the "Refund" button is clicked, it should create a new row at the bottom where it allows the service provider to enter % Amount to be refunded, which can range from 1% - 100%, followed by "Apply Refund" button. The Neebu Service Fee collected is not refundable in this instance and the service provider will only be able to refund from whatever they collected from the customer. E.g: if the Service Provider selected 100% of the amount to be refunded, and the customer was initially charged $100, out of which $10 was Neebu Service Fee and $90 was Service Provider's fee, then a 100% refund would imply that the customer will get back the $90 that the service provider collected. If there was a promo code applied due to which there was no Neebu Service Fee collected and all $100 went to the Service Provider, then a 100% refund would imply that the customer gets full $100 back after the 100% refund is applied by the service provider.

The "Start/End Service" as well as the "Pause/Resume Service" buttons must be toggle buttons and the "Pause/Resume Service" button must be enabled only once the service has been started and before the service is completed (or before the "End Service" button is clicked). Any time the "Start/End Service" button or the "Pause/Resume Service" button is clicked by the Service Provider, the customer must also get an alert at the start, end or pause/resume of the service so that the Service Provider and Customer are in alignment with when the service was started and when the service ended. If the service provider is a "Mover", then from the time the service provider clicked "Start Service" until the "End Service" is clicked, the customer must be able to track their location.

D. When logged in as a Service Provider, clicking on the "Menu" button opens a drop-down menu with the

following options:

o Flome (this must take the user to the initial screen that appears after logging in as a customer, which is subbullet #6B

o My Service Requests (this must take the user to the screen in sub-bullet #6C)

o My Notifications (this must take the user to screen in sub-bullet #6G below)

o My Promotions/Discounts (this must take the user to screen in sub-bullet #6H below) (not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category)

o My Credits & Payments (this must take the user to screen in sub-bullet #61 below) (not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category)

o My Profile (this must take the user to the screen where they can edit their profile info, sub-bullet #6E) o FAQs (this must take the user to the FAQ screen which has the FAQs listed under bullet #9 below) o Logout (clicking on this takes the user back to the initial login/landing screen, which is bullet #2)

If the user clicks on the "Menu" button again or clicks anywhere outside the menu dropdown area, the menu dropdown must go away

E. When logged in as a Service Provider, "My Profile" screen displays the following info:

o First Name (Editable) o Last Name (Editable)

o Email Address (Editable, but prompts a pop up window for password to successfully change the email address)

o Category of Service provided (List of Categories that were presented to the user during registration in subbullet #3B above with the check-boxes for each category, selected/unselected, as saved during registration or the last time the user updated their profile.

o Update Bank Account Info (link or button) - the user must be prompted for password in a pop up window to successfully add/change payment method. If the password is accepted, the user must be taken to screen described in sub-bullet #6F below, (not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category)

o Change Password link (clicking on this link takes the user to bullet #4 above)

o "Save Changes" Button, which saves all the changes made but keeps the user on the same screen

F. Update Bank Account Info (not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category)

Display the Bank account info collected from the user during registration and allow the user to edit each of those fields. There must be a "Submit" button and "Cancel" button. Clicking on "Submit Button saves the edits made and takes the user back to their profile screen described in sub-bullet #6E above. Clicking on Cancel doesn't save any changes and takes the user back to their profile (sub-bullet #6E above).

G. My Notifications

o This must show all the notifications that the user has received. If the list is long, the default list can contain enough that fit the screen and scrolling down must refresh the page to add to the list

o Any notifications that require the user to "Touch Back" must have the "Touch Back" button next to it o Clicking on the "Touch Back" button must add this request to the service provider's list of service requests on the "Requests Not Started" tab, displayed on screen in sub-bullet #6C

o The list must show any notification in bold if there has been a new notification received since the user last came to this screen. Also, in such cases, "My Notifications" must be the default page when the user accesses the Neebu app, if there are any new notifications since last visit to this screen. In all other cases, the screen in sub-bullet #6B must be the default screen when the app is accessed by a logged-in service provider.

H. My Promotions/Discounts (not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category)

This screen must display the following:

o "Promotions/Discounts Active on the account" text must appear, followed by the actual Promo/Discount Code that the user has already applied to their account in the past, which is currently in effect

o "Promo Code Description" followed by a description like "ZERO Neebu Service Fee" or "50% OFF Neebu Service Fee"

o "Promo Code Effective Date" followed by the date that the service provider activated the promo

code/discount code

o "Promo Code End Date" followed by the date when the promo code/discount code ends or expires for that user

o "Apply New Promo Code" followed by a text box to allow user to enter a new Promo Code

o A message in bold below that says, "Applying a new promo code will replace any other Promo Code that is currently active on your account (except the Default Customer Discount Codes)". The Default Customer Discount Codes are the pre-defined discount codes listed below, and can be applied in addition to any other ongoing promotion or discount code (Only ONE additional code allowed with the Default Customer Discount Codes).

o "Apply Promo Code" button below the disclaimer that saves this promo code in the user's account and is taken into consideration when Neebu applies credit to service provider's account after any service is completed (described in sub-bullets #7A and #7B), until the promo code expires for that user, or is replaced by another promo/discount code. If a user enters a Promo code that is already active in the user's account, the must be presented with an error message (on the same screen) that says, "Promo Code entered is already applied and active on your account".

o A set of pre-defined discount codes should be always available to the Service providers (and only Service Providers, not customers), which are listed below: ^■ "100FF" - This code allows the service provider to give the customer a 10% discount on the TOTAL FEES calculated after the service is completed

^■ "200FF" - This code allows the service provider to give the customer a 20% discount on the TOTAL FEES calculated after the service is completed

^■ "30OFF" - This code allows the service provider to give the customer a 30% discount on the TOTAL FEES calculated after the service is completed

^■ "40OFF" - This code allows the service provider to give the customer a 40% discount on the TOTAL FEES calculated after the service is completed

^■ "500FF" - This code allows the service provider to give the customer a 50% discount on the TOTAL FEES calculated after the service is completed

Neebu can offer promo codes like NOFEE which is essentially No Neebu Service Fees for service providers for the first 12 months. Depending on when each of the service providers enter the NOFEE promo code in their account, the end date or expiration date of that promo code for each service provider may vary.

My Earnings (not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category)

There must be two tabs on this screen: Total Earnings & Transaction History

Total Earnings Tab: This screen must show the total earnings in USD in the user's account, as a result of all the services performed since registration with the app.

Transaction History Tab: This screen must show all services performed that have been COMPLETED and earnings from each of those completed services (transactions) that fit on a page (most recent one on top) and automatically grows the list (if there are more items to display), as the user starts to scroll down the screen. The columns displayed must be:

o Date of service completion

o Service Category

o Earnings

There must be a filter to allow the user to select "credit only", "withdrawals only" and transactions between a certain date range.

Service Request

A. For the Customer who initiated the service request

After the "Service Request" button is clicked, the user must stay on the same screen and must now be able to see the Contact Info of the Service Provider (phone number), right underneath the "Service Request" button. Also, the Date, Time, Service Category and requesting Customer's phone number must be logged in the Service Provider's profile. This information will be visible by the service provider in screen described in sub-bullet #6C above).

The screen will now enable chat feature - It will be one to one real time chat between customer & service provider. It will display whether the contact is online & offline. Chat will be in form of text & images only. Messages will also have Chat history.

When the service provider clicks on "Start/End Service" button, the customer must get a confirmation alert to confirm the START or END of the service.

When the Service Provider clicks on "Start/End Service" or "Pause/Resume Service" button, the customer must be alerted by their app with a short message that says - "Your Service provider has

started/paused/resumed/ended the service." Followed by their phone number and email address. Also, if the Service Provider ended the service (completed the service), the app should calculate the total fees for the service, MINUS any discounts or promo codes that are applicable to the customer, and are in effect in the customer and/or the service provider's account under their "My Promotions/Discounts", and the adjusted amount should be charged to the customer's card on file. Another sentence should be added to the alert message above that says: "The total Fees charged to your card for this service is $ XYZ".

An email receipt must also be sent to the customer that shows the date of service performed, service provider name, category of service, duration of service, Total Service Fees, Total Discount Applied (in $), and Total Fees charged ("total fees charged" is not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category).

Ability to Rate Service Provider between 1 star and 5 stars. There should be a text box underneath the stars to allow for customer comments/feedback, followed by a "Send Rating/Review" button, which if clicked, must keep the user on the same screen but add the rating and customer review to the Service Provider's profile. An email must also be sent to the Service provider informing them of the rating and customer review. The "Send Rating/Review" button must be disabled by default unless the customer provided any rating (1 star to 5 star).

B. For Service Provider

The Service Provider must be prompted with an alert right away that says "You have a new service request. Please call the customer for further details". The Customer's Phone number should be displayed right underneath the message displayed.

The screen will now enable chat feature - It will be one to one real time chat between customer & service provider. It will display whether the contact is online & offline. Chat will be in form of text & images only. Messages will also have Chat history.

Once the Service Provider toggles the "Start/End Service" button to START service, the app must prompt the customer to "confirm" the START of service and the "Start/End Service" button is grayed out until customer confirms. Once the customer confirms the start of service, the "Start/End Service" button is toggled to show service has started and the app must start keeping track of the duration (hours and minutes) of service provided and stop either when the "Pause/Resume Service" button is toggled to Pause Service, to pause the timer for whatever reason (service provider may be taking a break) or "Start/End Service" button is toggled to END. If the customer denied START of service, then the "Start/End Service" button resumes back to original state as if the button was never pushed by the service provider to begin with. The service provider must get an alert that the customer has denied START of service, so the service provider and customer can either chat or call each other to sort it out amongst themselves.

When the Service Provider ends the service, the app must prompt the customer to "confirm" the END of service and the "Start/End Service" button is grayed out until customer confirms. Once the customer confirms the end of service, the "Start/End Service" button is toggled to show service has ended and the app must calculate the total duration of service provided in hours (rounded to 2 decimal places) and multiply it with the hourly rate to determine the TOTAL FEES for the service, also rounded to 2 decimal places. (Fees calculation is not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category). If the customer denied END of service, then the "Start/End Service" button resumes back to the state as if the service provider had pushed "Pause/Resume Service" button so the timer is paused until the customer and service provider can align on this. The service provider must get an alert that the customer has denied END of service, so the service provider and customer can either chat or call each other to sort it out amongst themselves.

Once the service is completed (when END button is clicked), the app must charge the customer, the total fees calculated above, via the payment method in the customer's profile (not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category). An email must be sent to the Service provider with details of revenue collected from the customer showing the 10% Neebu Service Fee collected by the app equaling 90% revenue collected by the service provider. If the customer or the service provider has a Promotion/discount code activated in their profile, the receipt must reflect that. E.g.: if the service provider has NOFEE promo/discount code activated (which means NO Neebu Service Fee), then the email receipt to the service provider must show a separate line item showing the promo code (in this case "NOFEE"), and the additional revenue provided to the service provider because of the activated Promo/Discount code (not applicable to "FREE Social Services" category).

The Total Fees collected from the customer must be paid according to the 90-10 split upfront so that 90% goes to Service Provider and 10% comes to Neebu. The Service Provider's account must be updated instantly after completing the service, to show the updated "Total Earned" on the screen described in sub-bullet #61, after deducting the "Neebu Service Fee", taking into consideration any Promo code/Discount Code activated by the customer or the Service Provider (as described in sub-bullets #5J and #6H above). Data that needs to be saved for future purposes (Reporting, analytics, etc.)

o Total additional revenue received by each service provider due to all the Promo/Discount Codes they have used in the Neebu app

o All the hours worked by each service provider, their service category, and name,

o What else?

FAQs

• Is there any Fee to join Neebu? (Customer & Service Provider)

• Do Service Providers have to pay anything to Neebu? (Service Provider)

• Is it possible to highlight or feature me as a service provider so more customers can see me in their search results? (Service Provider)

• Do I have to use the Neebu app to get paid by the customer for my services? (Service Provider)

• Can I make arrangements with the service provider to pay them cash instead of paying them through the Neebu app? (Customer)

• When do I have to pay the service provider? (Customer)

• Will I be charged for clicking on the "Initiate Service Request" button? (Customer)

• Can I initiate requests with multiple service providers? (Customer)

• When do I get paid by the customer? (Service Provider)

• Does the money go directly to my bank account, after I complete the service? (Service Provider)

• What is "Pause/Resume Service" button for? (Service Provider)

• What if I never press the "Touch Back" button? (Service Provider)

• Can I rate a service provider after initiating a service request, even if I decided to go with another service provider? (Customer)

Enhancement ideas for Future:

For the "FREE Social Service" category:

o Reach out to RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) to sign up

o Partner with any other social service providers

Add baby-sitting/nanny services that performs background check in advance of registration completion Add taxi service that competes with Uber (users prefer one-stop shop so may prefer to use this app vs Uber) Add Delivery service (competes with Uber Eats)

Buying/selling portal

As app popularity and membership grows, the minimum zoom level on screen in sub-bullet #5c adjusts/reduced accordingly

Ability to track service provider (like Uber) for selected services

Add additional categories, some of them are listed below:

o housekeeping service (must be able to do all of these: Cleaning, Cooking, Laundry, dishes, ironing) o Large Contractor/Remodeler

o