Abstract: A catalog based price search method comprises, among other things, associating a price search data with a particular data classifier of the set of data classifiers using a processor; creating a database having the price search data associated with the particular data classifier of the set of data classifiers, and different price search data associated with different data classifiers of the set of data classifiers; automatically rendering a structured view in a structured format of the set of data classifiers having the particular data classifier and different data classifiers; and processing a payment of an interested party when the structured view develops a patron base above a threshold value; and offering a subscription service on the structured view associated with the interested party when the patron base is above the threshold value.

Abstract: Finding a best price available for a selected product, computed including all relevant factors available to the search engine. Searching separately for the product by price, and concurrently, searching for any available coupons or other discounts available for that product from the seller. When obtaining price information, querying for relevant information relating to purchase decisions. Obtaining relevant information from third-party sources. When obtaining discount information, querying for relevant information relating to applicability of that discount. Matching price information with coupon information for each selected requested product, and computing an effective price to the potential buyer. Aggregating the information it obtains, and presenting that aggregated information. Filtering or sorting those results. Maintaining separate pricing information for each product, uniquely identified by a code, in a database entry. Maintaining separate information for each discount.

Abstract: A self-uploaded indexing and data clustering method and apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of a server device includes processing a merchant-uploaded inventory data to determine a set of meta-data attributes associated with the merchant-uploaded inventory data and creating an index data using the set of meta-data attributes associated with the merchant-uploaded inventory data. The merchant-uploaded inventory data may be compared with a previous inventory data of a particular merchant associated with both the merchant-uploaded inventory data and the previous inventory data to identify at least a portion of the set of meta-data attributes which do not need to be updated. The index data may be created using an incremental algorithm that builds on preexisting indexes which have substantially similar data as the index data.