ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY WITH PREDEFINED SEARCH TEMPLATE FOR FACILITATING THE MATCHING OF BUYERS TO QUALIFIED SELLERS

摘要

A system and method to provide buyers with information that supports the selection of qualified vendors and service providers at the precise time they are prepared to make a purchase. To accomplish its function, the system includes three core elements: first a data retrieval system that makes it easy for ready and willing buyers to find and contact qualified businesses; second a proprietary electronic database with enhanced information regarding local businesses; three an electronic distribution network that employs live, enhanced directory assistance (EDA) operators via telephone as well as the World Wide Web (80), and simplifies the connections between motivated buyers and qualified sellers. Buyers are able to search the database (88) of businesses to find the most qualified providers of goods/services (90) that match their unique criteria (86). Sellers can use the service to better promote their offerings to a market that has moved beyond window shopping and that is ready to buy.