Multi-tiered approach to e-mail prioritization

Abstract

An apparatus for automating a prioritization of an incoming message, including a batch learning module that generates a global classifier based on training data that is input to the batch learning module. A feedback learning module that generates a user-specific classifier based on a plurality of feedback instances. A feature extraction module that receives the incoming message and a topic-based user model, infers a topic of the incoming message based on the topic-based user model, and computes a plurality of contextual features of the incoming message. A classification module that dynamically determines a priority classification strategy for assigning a priority level to the incoming message based on the plurality of contextual features of the incoming message and a weighted combination of the global classifier and the user-specific classifier, and classifies the incoming message based on the priority classification strategy.