Karthik Harihar

Bio: Karthik Harihar is an academic researcher from Central Connecticut State University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Ubiquitous computing & Mobile device. The author has an hindex of 2, co-authored 2 publications receiving 154 citations. Previous affiliations of Karthik Harihar include Columbus State University.

Using ubiquitous computing in interactive mobile marketing

Abstract: Unique features of handheld devices, including their mobility, personalization and location-awareness engender new types of applications for mobile commerce, such as mobile advertising. Mobile marketing and advertising applications deliver promotional information to consumers based on their preferences and location. In this paper, we present SMMART, a context-aware, adaptive and personalized m-commerce application designed to deliver targeted promotions to the users of mobile devices about the products they like while guarding the users’ identity and protecting them from any unsolicited messages. Promotions distributed by SMMART are personalized by performing intelligent matching of the user’s shopping interests to current promotions available at a retail site. SMMART can adapt to changing preferences of its user by inconspicuously monitoring his or her shopping habits. We describe a fully functional prototype of SMMART built for Pocket PCs running Windows CE with .NET Compact Framework. This paper also presents a study demonstrating end-user usability and economic viability of SMMART.

Using Jini to enable pervasive computing environments

Abstract: Pervasive computing is a vision aimed at facilitating access to information anywhere and anytime, wherein stationary and mobile devices interact seamlessly to aid the users in their tasks. As the enabling hardware becomes smaller, smarter and cheaper this vision is poised to become a reality. While hardware devices form the building blocks of pervasive environments, a pervasive environment requires a robust software technology that can integrate them into a single cohesive unit. This paper discusses the suitability of Jini networking technology as an enabling and integrating technology used by pervasive environments. Specific issues of Jini's suitability for mobile devices and alternative technologies are also discussed.

Mobile shopping: a classification framework and literature review

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to classify and organize the accumulated knowledge about mobile shopping (m-shopping) as revealed in the present literature regarding retail. A classification framework has been applied, consisting of three categories: online distribution channels, advanced technology for in-store shopping, and technology perspectives. Design/methodology/approach – A term-based search method was applied in which the literature was restricted to peer-reviewed articles in English-language journals of a certain date and specific online databases. Finally, 81 peer-reviewed articles, published between 2000 and 2012 around the world, were taken into account. Findings – Considering the retail environment, the interest in m-shopping for both advanced technology for in-store shopping and for the online distribution channel has increased continuously over the last decade. Moreover, while studies have mostly explored the consumers’ acceptance and reactions to m-shopping themes, the technology p...

In-store consumer behavior: How mobile recommendation agents influence usage intentions, product purchases, and store preferences

Abstract: Product information given in purchase situations influences purchase behavior. In online purchase situations, the use of recommendation agents increases the value of product information as information becomes adaptive and thus more relevant to consumers' information needs. Correspondingly, mobile recommendation agents (MRAs) may also increase the value of product information in bricks-and-mortar stores. In this sense, product information is not only adaptive but can also be requested at any place such as in front of products consumers are interested in. Because unprecedented, we investigate the use of a MRA that is virtually bound to a physical product via an RFID-enabled mobile device and provides product information. Based on Theory of Planned Behavior, Innovation Diffusion Theory, and Technology Acceptance Model, we develop a model to better understand the impact of MRAs on usage intentions, product purchases and store preferences of consumers. This model is then tested in a lab experiment (n=47). Among high usability scores, results indicate that perceived usefulness of a MRA influences product purchases, predicts usage intentions and store preferences of consumers. Thus, new business models for retail stores can be considered in which MRAs satisfy both the information needs of consumers and the communication needs of retailers.

Search engine that identifies and uses social networks in communications, retrieval, and electronic commerce

Abstract: Architecture that monitors interaction data (e.g., search queries, query results and click-through rates), and provides users with links to other users that fall into similar categories with respect to the foregoing monitored activities (e.g., providing links to individuals and groups that share common interests and/or profiles). A search engine can be interactively coupled with one or more social networks, and that maps individuals and/or groups within respective social networks to subsets of categories associated with searches. A database stores mapped information which can be continuously updated and reorganized as links within the system mapping become stronger or weaker. The architecture can comprise a social network system that includes a database for mapping search-related information to an entity of a social network, and a search component for processing a search query for search results and returning a link to an entity of a social network based on the search query.

Suggesting things to do during time slots in a schedule

Abstract: Architecture for suggesting activities to be performed during time slots of a user schedule, such as a calendar application. In one implementation, a personal activity is suggested for a free time slot. In another implementation, a personal activity can be suggested for both a free time slot and a full time slot. The architecture can also apply filtering to generate suggestions based on user location, preferences (stated or learned), user history, user interaction with content and candidate activities, targeted advertising, and so on. The filtering can be applied to disparate sources of activity information to provide relevant activities for suggestion to the user. Revenue models can be applied as well. The architecture can be deployed as a client/server topology or solely on the client.

Location-based advertising on mobile devices

Abstract: Location-based advertising (LBA) allows the delivery of advertising messages to consumers in places that are known for their particular high and positive advertising effect. While LBA is recognized for static roadside billboards and the Web, LBA can now be found on mobile devices. This mobile advertising adds valuable opportunities for companies: it allows consumers to be addressed (i) individually, (ii) based on their current location, and (iii) dynamically in real-time; furthermore, (iv) content may be replaced quickly by remote access. Accordingly, within the mobile marketing domain, LBA on mobile devices turns over a new leaf. This young research field is interdisciplinary at its core and marketing and technical experts expect major impetus. To contribute to this growing field, we systematically analyze and evaluate existing literature in the field of LBA on mobile devices, and present the results of six analyses. By building bridges between the involved disciplines, we present existing research in a condensed, concise and evaluating form which will support researchers in orienting for future research in the field. Furthermore, we pinpoint selected “white spots” in research and draw attention to promising areas for future research and directions of future development trends.