Global content management services for product providers and purchasers

This research defines a method for developing eXtended Markup Language (XML)-based content management services for global product manufacturers and distributors. Content management services for multi-channel trades play an important role in e-business because it enables the seamless flow of product information between suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and customers. In today's business world, transactions over the Internet are growing rapidly requiring constant and dynamic information sharing and exchange among business partners. Thus, globally compatible content management services are essential to serve the modern business community. This research defines, develops and integrates new technologies and methodologies into a global content management (GCM) services platform. The platform provides a multi-functional system architecture that defines XML schema as a neutral product content representation, proposes a suitable content search engine, implements a Web user interface for a variety of content users, and provides Web tools for e-content creation, maintenance and management. The GCM system links to other content management and transaction platforms so that end-users can use multi-channel services to procure, market and sell products globally. © 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.