Abstract: Computer processes are disclosed for identifying and informing users of early adopter items. In one embodiment, scores are generated for particular items represented in an electronic catalog, with each score reflecting an extent to which a corresponding item has been ordered by customers who tend to order items promptly after they become available. Information pertaining to such scores may be incorporated into item detail pages of the electronic catalog to assist customers in making item selection decisions. For example, the electronic catalog may identify specific items as early adopter items, and/or may display information pertaining to the degree to which specific items are early adopter items.

Abstract: A transaction management system is described in which transactions between buyers and sellers are monitored to determine sellers qualifying for guaranteed or underwritten status. The sellers log details of their goods or services with the system which are then presented to buyers together with an indication of the seller's underwritten status. A buyer purchasing from a guaranteed or underwritten seller using the system obtains some form of compensation in the event that the seller does not deliver as promised. In a preferred embodiment, the system selects an alternative service or good for delivery to the buyer by the agreed date using the database of sales data. The sellers are advantageously graded into brands using historical transaction-related data.

Abstract: A method capable of combining data signals and video signals for transmission to a video display unit. The method comprises the steps of generating a data signal, transmitting the data signal to an apparatus, receiving the data signal at the apparatus, receiving a video/audio signal at the apparatus, combining the video/audio signal with the data signal to form a single combined signal, and displaying the combined signal on a video display unit.

Abstract: A server acts as the hub of a collaborative commerce system. Suppliers of goods or services self publish information to the hub. Buyers are able to query the hub for product and service availability, price etc. Buyers are able to integrate real time multi product and multi service orders from multiple suppliers, carriers and field serve providers and thus secure available goods as well as the delivery and installation of those goods from the records available on the hub. Once an order is complete to the buyer's satisfaction, the order is transmitted to the hub. The hub then transmits the appropriate information to the relevant suppliers, carriers and installers as required. The system also provides for a system of virtual partitioning of a supplier's inventory.