Abstract: Embodiments of a method are disclosed that comprise receiving, over a communications network, user-initiated quantitative sentiment ratings regarding an entity and calculating a real-time sentiment index for the entity using the received sentiment ratings. Embodiments of apparatus are also disclosed that comprise a plurality of computing devices each including an interface configured for the input of user-initiated quantitative sentiment ratings and a server which is configured to (i) receive sentiment ratings from the plurality of computing devices, (ii) determine a first subset of the received sentiment ratings that relate to a first entity, and (iii) calculate a first real-time sentiment index for the first entity using sentiment ratings from the first subset.

Abstract: A comprehensive and searchable network of on-line directories of service providers and a method for a user to use this network is disclosed. The network enables a user to obtain or market products and services on the Internet. The system includes the following software architecture and system design components: Network Data Sharing, Geographic Radius Searching, and Partner Web Site Branding.

Abstract: A comprehensive and searchable network of on-line directories of service providers and a method for a user to use this network is disclosed. The network enables a user to obtain or market products and services on the Internet. The system includes the following software architecture and system design components: Network Data Sharing, Geographic Radius Searching, and Partner Web Site Branding.