Abstract: A method and apparatus for tracking the use of a distributable software application uses two identification codes and a tracking assistant to monitor the operation and distribution of the software application. A first code is preferably a downloaded identification code created when the user accesses a web server. The first identification code and other registration data is stored in a database coupled to the web server. A second unique installation code is automatically created when the software application is installed in the user's computer. Subsequent installations of the application using the same first code results in a different installation code. The tracking assistant module automatically transmits both codes to a database via a network (Internet) according to a predetermined schedule. One embodiment of the tracking assistant also collects other data on the use of the application, such as frequency of use or features commonly used, and transmits it along with the two codes as tracking data.

Abstract: A software architecture for task oriented applications. The architecture utilizes a wrapper as an intermediate structure between an external calling application and a wrapped component or module. The wrapper is written in a script language and acts as a bridge between the external application and the wrapped component. Data is transferred among components through the intermediary of a table of contents (TOC) file which contains data attribute information and a link to the actual data file.

Abstract: An electronic message forwarding system selectively forwards information to a plurality of different receiving device types. One or more user defined filters filter incoming messages, route the messages, and send the routed message to appropriate form converters to convert the message into a form appropriate to the receiving device type, such as e-mail, pager, facsimile, or telephone forwarding. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of filters, router, and form converters may be used to perform a message classification, channel selection, and channel output control function.