Abstract: A system and method for distributing the execution of computer application programs among one or more computational resources over a computer network is described. This invention also manages the execution to optimize program execution, thereby permitting the multiplication of computational resources of a number of common computer resources linked by a computer network into the computational power commonly associated with supercomputers. This invention permits the automation of complex processes generally considered beyond the computational power of typical desktop computers by dividing and managing the process among a number of such computers connected by a computer network, which can then operate in parallel to maximize computational efficiency. This invention permits improved efficiency of communication between entities doing work on an application, whether a computer, device or person entity. This invention supports a wide variety of device types and computer operating system platforms.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for providing an audio interface to electronic documents. An audio interface receives a request for electronic content from a client and retrieves the requested document. Next, the document is parsed to identify various elements, such as title, text, and links included in the document. Many of those providing electronic content include hierarchical indices to aid clients in finding documents covering a particular topic. The audio interface includes a facility to preserve, enhance, or create this hierarchical organization by mapping a document's text and links into a corresponding audio hierarchy. The client is then presented with various options from which to make a selection. Outside of this hierarchy, the client receives the document title, the number of links contained within the document, an audio representation of the document's text, and may optionally chose to hear only the links included in the document.

Abstract: Methods for introducing information services to potential customers. The information services can provide Internet access, value-added telephone services, and the like. As a non-customer or, in other words, a potential customer, issues a communication request to a customer of the information service, the potential customer is allowed to access certain features of the information service. The communication request can be a telephone call directed to a customer. For example, as the potential customer holds while waiting to speak with a customer, the potential customer can browse the Internet using a telephone interface. The potential customer is also informed how he or she can become a subscriber or the information service. As the potential customer interacts with the information service, the potential customer's interaction is tracked and stored in order to customize the information service to the particular potential customer during a subsequent interaction.