Abstract: A method for processing an order within a network includes receiving an order at an initial gateway, where the order has a plurality of fields associated therewith. A chain of a plurality of gateways for processing at least a portion of the order is then ascertained. More particularly, the chain of gateways identifies a sequence in which the gateways are configured to process the order. A first gateway in the chain of gateways is identified, where the first gateway is adapted for processing a first set of one or more fields of the order. In addition, a second gateway in the chain of gateway is identified, where the second gateway is adapted for processing a second set of one or more fields of the order. The first set of fields is passed to the first gateway and the second set of fields is passed to the second gateway, thereby enabling the first and second gateways to separately process at least a portion of the order.