Abstract: The present invention uses instant messaging to effectuate structured communication. A structured communication component is used in conjunction with an instant messaging component to allow an instant messaging user to quickly formulate a structured communication for transmission to one or more recipients. The recipients are presented with the structured communications such that they provide a structured response that is transmitted back to the sender. The responses from the various recipients can then be reviewed, such as in a desired report format, by the sender.

Abstract: The present invention uses instant messaging to effectuate structured communication. A structured communication component is used in conjunction with an instant messaging component to allow an instant messaging user to quickly formulate a structured communication for transmission to one or more recipients. The recipients are presented with the structured communications such that they provide a structured response that is transmitted back to the sender. The responses from the various recipients can then be reviewed, such as in a desired report format, by the sender.

Abstract: The present invention includes an information gathering system which directs a user through a dynamic, yet structured, query process. By completing the process, the user provides specific information that is immediately transported back to the company's computer system. In one embodiment, the present invention also provides an integration system that integrates the information received from the user into a desired application, designated by the company.