Abstract: Real-time messaging is a very familiar activity for users. Messaging apps allow users to create messaging channels through which users can message each other. Some of these channels are direct messaging channels between two users while others are group messaging channels connecting multiple users. For group messaging, users are able to bring in other users to the group via a user-interface for adding users. This invention describes how this user-interface can be easily extended to include interconnection with other data channels to create ingoing and outgoing message flows to other applications and services. This allows users to mashup content, message across platforms, share Internet of Things devices, and chain services all within the convenience of their messaging app.

Abstract: A supplier of products that are useful in an industrial process provides enhanced services associated with the product. The support method applies in a business relationship between a supplier and a consumer, wherein the consumer uses the products in the industrial process. A variety of parameters of the industrial process are monitored and items of performance information concerning the products used in the industrial process are acquired. Corresponding data are stored in a memory device at the consumer's location. The data are sporadically transmitted to the supplier, where the data are stored in a centralized database. There, the data are processed and reports are generated concerning the consumer's industrial process and the performance of the products in the industrial process. Real-time “on call” engineering services may be provided by the supplier on the basis of the data and/or reports for the consumer's use can be generated.