Importance

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Abstract

A software brokering method and framework are presented. The software brokering method includes a step of establishing a use-based pricing scheme for a set of software modules that are utilized at a customer's site. By pricing software according to its use rather than a set fee, flexible pricing is facilitated for meeting the broad spectrum of customers needs. The software modules are distributed to customers. The software modules are preferably downloaded from an e-commerce site, but may also be mailed or distributed from conventional retail outlets. Use of the software at a customer's site is monitored by processes integrated into the deployment and execution components of a software module integration platform residing at the customer's site. Customers are charged based upon their actual use of the software modules, as registered by the software module integration platform, in view of the software pricing scheme established for the downloaded software modules.In a preferred embodiment, the software modules are distributed and monitored through an e-commerce site.

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First Claim