Abstract: Methods and systems of service discovery and use are described. An application software component is for performing a service. A source of an application software component is contacted. Information descriptive of the status of the application software component is received. The status of the application software component is provided in response to a request for the service.

Abstract: A vendor system, accessible via a cellular phone network, WiFi or wired network responds to purchase inquiries with iterative pricing. If an initial offer is declined, the vendor system can initiate a series of interactions with a customer to help determine a follow-up price for the same or a related product (or product bundle). The customer interface is provided by a self-service front end, while price determinations are made by a virtual customer service representative using a rule-based expert system. Once an offer is accepted, an order is placed.