Multilingual messaging system and method for e-commerce

Abstract

The present invention is an Internet-based electronic messaging system that, through the use of system templates and through the system's processing of messages, can enable users who understand a different language to communicate and negotiate business transactions with each other. Users receive and send messages in the language they understand (Korean, for example) and the recipient receives and then sends messages in the language they understand (German, for example). The system creates an electronic commerce platform through a series of template screens for each step of the typical commercial transaction in goods or services, (e.g., request for quotation (“RFQ”) by buyer, quotation by seller, negotiation request by buyer, quotation by seller, purchase order by buyer, purchase order confirmation by seller). A user can perform each step of the ordering process online and, after each step is completed, the user's trading partner is advised via e-mail, instant messaging or other means, that the step has been completed, and the message includes a link back to the system. For example, a buyer could create an RFQ online using the system template in the buyer's own language and, when completed, the seller would be notified via e-mail of the RFQ in the form of the system template in the seller's own language. The seller can then click on a link that accesses the RFQ on the system, also in the seller's own language, which enables the seller to prepare a quotation using the system template in the seller's own language.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.