Identifying and surveying subscribers

摘要

A method for surveying and gathering user and status information from data processing devices coupled to a network. Data processing devices, such as cellular phones and handheld devices, may be coupled to a network manager through phone lines or RF networks. The network manager transmits survey inquiries and receives survey responses from users. The specific set of users may be selected based on user characteristics and/or device characteristics compiled by the network manger. Other status information, such as the location of each data processing device on the network and whether each data processing device on the network is active, may also be collected by the network manager. Collected information may then be distributed or made available to other data processing devices on the network.