Abstract: Systems and methods for distributing products using a wide area or global computer network are provided. A method for distributing products is provided wherein a request for a product is received from a consumer, preferably using a web based interface. An indirect seller provides the web based interface and preferably maintains the inventory management system. A retailer to fulfill the consumer request for product is determined based upon the nearest retailer to the consumer that has current stock of the requested. Inventory levels of product are maintained by an inventory management system that receives shipping information from manufacturers regarding shipments of products from the manufacturers to retailers and sales information from retailers reflecting sales of products from the retailers to consumers. A terminal may also be provided at retail locations to enable users of the terminal to interact with the inventory management system while at a physical retail location.

Abstract: A graphical user interface is provided that permits the navigation of dynamic collections of information. A simplified presentation allows navigation between multiple levels of information content. Navigating through the various levels of the collection of information causes the information to be recursively presented in a hierarchical fashion. Furthermore, the information content may be dynamic in nature such that changes to the information content or its structure is reflected in the hierarchical presentation. The present invention may be used to navigate collections of information including web sites, computer file systems, databases, and other hierarchical systems.

Abstract: A smart card capable of performing more than one function, said smart card comprising a first memory means comprising a first set of data to access a bank account, a second set of data to access a credit card account, a third set of data representing the identification of a holder of the smart card, and a fourth set of data to access telephone communication services. The smart card further comprises a microprocessor, said microprocessor being in electrical communication with a second memory means, and a location tracking means for determining a location of the smart card.

Abstract: A smart card capable of performing more than one function, said smart card comprising a first memory means comprising a first set of data to access a bank account, a second set of data to access a credit card account, a third set of data representing the identification of a holder of the smart card, and a fourth set of data to access telephone communication services. The smart card further comprises a microprocessor, said microprocessor being in electrical communication with a second memory means, and a location tracking means for determining a location of the smart card.

Abstract: An Internet-based service configured to provide a variety of products, services and information tailored to a specific and known lifestyle, wherein all information provided about those products, services, and information is obtained from one web site configured to meet the needs of only that lifestyle.

Abstract: A smart card capable of performing more than one function, said smart card comprising a first memory means comprising a first set of data to access a bank account, a second set of data to access a credit card account, a third set of data representing the identification of a holder of the smart card, and a fourth set of data to access telephone communication services. The smart card further comprises a microprocessor, said microprocessor being in electrical communication with a second memory means, and a location tracking means for determining a location of the smart card.

Abstract: An Internet-based service configured to provide a variety of products, services and information tailored to a specific and known lifestyle, wherein all information provided about those products, services, and information is obtained from one web site configured to meet the needs of only that lifestyle.