The present invention pertains generally to the use of computer networks, and pertains more particularly to improved ways to distribute relevant advertising to specific recipients through computer networks.
Prior to the wide spread use of global computer networks, many individuals relied on direct media like radio and television broadcasts to obtain information for media content. Today, global computer networks such as the Internet provide an additional source of media access. For some individuals, computer network sources have eclipsed the importance of the older, more traditional media because these networks are capable of supporting extremely rapid publication of large amounts of information. Media content is made accessible through the Internet, for example, is given a unique identifier or Uniform Resource Locator (URL). As a result, individuals may be given direct access to information from essentially any source throughout the world. Advertisers generally target information and attempt to insert meaningful advertisements based on content of the information. This is a mixed blessing. Generic advertising targeting can lead to misplaced and inappropriate advertisements. Using a database containing profile information of the recipient the advertising can be better targeted to the individual.