Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for the automated exchange of information, and more particularly the use of a hierarchical protocol based upon an extensible markup language (XML) in order to enable machine-to-machine communication of data related to the availability of goods, services and information. The machine-to-machine communication protocol and system having a predefined destination (universal resource locator (URL)) for bootstrapping the communication process, and a structured content protocol using XML. The system is preferably closed-ended, and employs a rule-based syntax with conditional data interaction. In a preferred embodiment, the system includes GUI-based design and programming tools that enable the set up of host and/or visitor machines in accordance with the protocol.