Apparatus method and system for multiple resolution affecting information access

• US 20040111530A1
• Filed: 01/08/2004
• Published: 06/10/2004
• Est. Priority Date: 01/25/2002
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: Content Directions, Inc. (Linkstorm Corp.)
• Original Assignee: Content Directions, Inc. (Linkstorm Corp.)
• Inventors: Sidman, David
• Application Number:
  US10/470,187
• Publication Number:
  US 20040111530A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 709/245
• CPC Class Codes: G06F 16/958 Organisation or management of web site content, e.g. publishing, maintaining pages or automatic linking
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 2101/604 Address structures or formats
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 61/30 Managing network names, e.g. use of aliases or nicknames name-to-address mapping H04L61/45
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 61/3015 Name registration, generation or assignment
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 61/4552 Lookup mechanisms between a plurality of directories; Synchronisation of directories, e.g. metadirectories
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 67/63 Routing a service request depending on the request content or context
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 69/329 in the application layer [OSI layer 7]
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 9/40 Network security protocols

Abstract

An apparatus and method to provide a persistent identifier of information (222) that may be located in multiple locations (208, 310), formats (201, 202, 203, 204), and accessible in variable fashions based on the context of use. The present disclosure further provides the ability to assodate a single identifier with information available, and accessible under varying conditions, from varying locations (208, 310), in varying formats (201, 202, 203, 204), based on various contexts of access. The present disclosure further teaches an enhanced digital object identifier, an enhanced handle system, and enhanced directory registry that facilitate the access and association of information over a communications network.

Claims

1. A method of using a computer to access information, comprising:

receiving an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier message from a user;

determining that the message is enhanced with a syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address from an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers;

querying a directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers for query results based on the received unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, if the message is un-enhanced;

querying the enhanced directory for query results based on the received unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, if the message is enhanced;

selecting the appropriate associated resolution address from the query results of the enhanced directory for selection results based on the enhanced message syntax, if the enhanced directory was queried;

sending the query results to the user, if the enhanced directory was queried; and

sending the selection results to the user, if the appropriate associated resolution address from the enhanced directory was selected.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the selection is appropriate when the message'"'"'s enhanced syntax matches an entry in enhanced directory records.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

7. The method of claim 5, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

8. A method of using a computer to access information, comprising:

generating a unique, persistent, and universal name identifier for information;

specifying an enhanced syntax for the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier including, a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields;

specifying at least one location where the information that is associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed;

associating specified locations with the labels; and

sending the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, the labels, and the associated specified locations to a directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:

receiving the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, the labels, and the associated specified locations at the directory.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

creating a record in a database for the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier including fields for the labels for storing the associated specified locations.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

12. A method of using a computer to access information, comprising:

querying an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria; and

receiving query results from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

20. A method of using a computer to access information, comprising:

receiving a query from a user at an enhanced directory that maintains enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria;

selecting a record matching the query with an associated resolution address for selection results from a database containing enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers,

wherein the enhanced directory includes a database maintaining a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields that store locations where the information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed; and

sending selection results to the user from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

23. The method of claim 20, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

24. The method of claim 20, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

25. The method of claim 20, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

26. The method of claim 24, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

27. The method of claim 25, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

28. The method of claim 26, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

29. A memory for access by a program module to be executed on a processor, comprising:

a data structure stored in the memory, the data structure, including,

a unique, persistent, and universal name identifier type;

an enhanced syntax type for the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier including, a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields,

wherein the labels are of a type allowing for the storage of a location where information that is associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed.

30. The memory of claim 29, wherein the labels have a first resolution level that is separated from the next resolution level by an argument separator character.

31. The memory of claim 30, wherein the argument separator character is a period.

32. The memory of claim 30, wherein the first resolution level specifies a location target, and the second resolution level specifies a parameter.

33. A method of using a computer to access information, comprising:

querying an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria;

receiving query results from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria

modifying the results for a specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier obtained with the received query results,

wherein the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier includes an enhanced syntax that further including;

a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields,

at least one location where information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed; and

sending the modification to the enhanced directory for storage for the specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

35. The method of claim 33, wherein the modification includes changes to any criteria.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

37. The method of claim 33, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

38. The method of claim 33, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

39. The method of claim 33, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

40. The method of claim 37, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

41. The method of claim 38, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

42. A method of using a computer to access information, comprising:

receiving a request to modify a record for a specified enhanced unique, persisterit, and universal name identifier with modified criteria,

wherein the request includes an enhanced syntax that further includes;

a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields,

at least one location where information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed;

modifying the record for the specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with the modified criteria.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

44. The method of claim 42, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

45. The method of claim 42, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

46. The method of claim 43, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

47. The method of claim 44, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

48. The method of claim 42, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for specification of an appropriate associated resolution address.

49. The method of claim 42, wherein the modification includes changes to any criteria.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

51. A method of creating a multiple resolution mechanism, comprising:

receiving a first location for a first content, wherein said first content is retrievable from said first location;

receiving first metadata for said first content, wherein said first metadata provides descriptive data regarding said first content;

cataloging said first location and said first metadata for said first content so that said first content can be identified by providing said first metadata;

receiving a second location for a second content, wherein said second content is retrievable from said second location;

receiving second metadata for said second content, wherein said second metadata provides descriptive data regarding said second content; and

cataloging said second location and said second metadata for said second content so that said second content can be identified by providing said second metadata,

wherein the multiple resolution mechanism is capable of receiving a content retrieval request from a user, parsing said content retrieval request to determine the contest requested, and appropriately transmitting one of said first content and said second content to said user is response to said content retrieval request.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein said first content is in first resolution type and said second content is in second resolution type, wherein said content retrieval request comprises a request for one of said first content and said second content.

53. The method of claim 52, wherein said content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax allowing parsing of the content retrieval request, said parsing enabling the multiple resolution mechanism to determine the request for one of said first content and said second content.

54. The method of claim 53, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

55. The method of claim 54, wherein said resolution type may be one said first resolution type and said second resolution type.

56. The method of claim 53, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

57. The method of claim 55, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

58. The method of claim 57, wherein said resolution type may be one said first resolution type and said second resolution type.

59. The method of claim 52, wherein said first content is identical to said second content.

60. A method of retrieving content over a network, said network having a multiple resolution mechanism, comprising:

transmitting a content retrieval request to the multiple resolution mechanism for a desired content, said desired content available in multiple resolutions,

wherein said content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax comprising a notation to denote the desired resolution for the content, wherein said predetermined syntax allows the multiple resolution mechanism to parse the content retrieval request for determining the desired resolution for the content; and

receiving said content in said desired resolution.

61. The method of claim 60, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

62. The method of claim 60, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

63. The method of claim 62, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

64. A method of transmitting content over a network to a user, wherein said content is available in more than one resolution types, comprising:

receiving a content retrieval request from a user, said content retrieval request denoting content desired by the user, said content retrieval request further denoting one of said resolution types for said content;

parsing said content retrieval request to resolve the content requested by said user, wherein said content retrieval request includes one of said resolution types for the content requested;

comparing said content retrieval request against stored data;

determining a location on the network where the content in said one of resolution types is located, wherein said stored data includes a network address for said location;

pointing said user to the location where said content in said one of resolution types is located; and

transmitting said content in said one of resolution types to the user.

65. The method of claim 64, wherein said network comprises a multiple resolution mechanism that includes the stored data, said multiple resolution mechanism capable of resolving said content retrieval request to determine the resolution type of the content requested.

66. The method of claim 65, wherein content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax allowing parsing of the content retrieval request, said parsing enabling the multiple resolution mechanism for resolving the content requested by said user.

67. The method of claim 66, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

68. The method of claim 65, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

69. The method of claim 68, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

70. A system for using a computer to access information, comprising:

means to receive an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier message from a user;

means to determine that the message is enhanced with a syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address from an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers;

means to query a directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers for query results based on the received unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, if the message is un-enhanced;

means to query the enhanced directory for query results based on the received unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, if the message is enhanced;

means to select the appropriate associated resolution address from the query results of the enhanced directory for selection results based on the enhanced message syntax, if the enhanced directory was queried;

means to send the query results to the user, if the enhanced directory was queried; and

means to send the selection results to the user, if the appropriate associated resolution address from the enhanced directory was selected.

71. The system of claim 70, wherein the selection is appropriate when the message'"'"'s enhanced syntax matches an entry in enhanced directory records.

72. The system of claim 70, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

73. The system of claim 70, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

74. The system of claim 70, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

75. The system of claim 73, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

76. The system of claim 74, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

77. A system for using a computer to access information, comprising:

means to generate a unique, persistent, and universal name identifier for information;

means to specify an enhanced syntax for the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier including, a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields;

means to specify at least one location where the information that is associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed;

means to associate specified locations with the labels; and

means to send the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, the labels, and the associated specified locations to a directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers.

78. The system of claim 77, further comprising:

means to receive the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, the labels, and the associated specified locations at the directory.

79. The system of claim 78, further comprising:

means to create a record in a database for the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier including fields for the labels for storing the associated specified locations.

80. The system of claim 77, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

81. A system for using a computer to access information, comprising:

means to query an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria; and

means to receive query results from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria.

82. The system of claim 81, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

83. The system of claim 81, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

84. The system of claim 81, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

85. The system of claim 81, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

86. The system of claim 81, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

87. The system of claim 85, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

88. The system of claim 86, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

89. A system for using a computer to access information, comprising:

means to receive a query from a user at an enhanced directory that maintains enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria;

means to select a record matching the query with an associated resolution address for selection results from a database containing enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers,

wherein the enhanced directory includes a database maintaining a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields that store locations where the information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed; and

means to send selection results to the user from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria.

90. The system of claim 89, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

91. The system of claim 89, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

92. The system of claim 89, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

93. The system of claim 89, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

94. The system of claim 89, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

95. The system of claim 93, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

96. The system of claim 94, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the targets.

97. The system of claim 95, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

98. A system for using a computer to access information, comprising:

means to query an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria;

means to receive query results from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria

means to modify the results for a specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier obtained with the received query results,

wherein the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier includes an enhanced syntax that further including;

a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields,

at least one location where information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed; and

means to send the modification to the enhanced directory for storage for the specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier.

99. The system of claim 98, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

100. The system of claim 98, wherein the modification includes changes to any criteria.

101. The system of claim 100, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

102. The system of claim 98, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

103. The system of claim 98, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

104. The system of claim 98, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

105. The system of claim 102, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

106. The system of claim 103, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

107. A system for using a computer to access information, comprising:

means to receive a request to modify a record for a specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with modified criteria,

wherein the request includes an enhanced syntax that further includes;

a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields,

at least one location where information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed;

means to modify the record for the specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with the modified criteria.

108. The system of claim 107, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

109. The system of claim 107, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

110. The system of claim 107, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

111. The system of claim 110, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

112. The system of claim 111, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

113. The system of claim 107, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for specification of an appropriate associated resolution address.

114. The system of claim 107, wherein the modification includes changes to any criteria.

115. The system of claim 114, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

116. A system for creating a multiple resolution mechanism, comprising:

means to receive a first location for a first content, wherein said first content is retrievable from said first location;

means to receive first metadata for said first content, wherein said first metadata provides descriptive data regarding said first content;

means to catalog said first location and said first metadata for said first content so that said first content can be identified by providing said first metadata;

means to receive a second location for a second content, wherein said second content is retrievable from said second location;

means to receive second metadata for said second content, wherein said second metadata provides descriptive data regarding said second content; and

means to catalog said second location and said second metadata for said second content so that said second content can be identified by providing said second metadata,

wherein the multiple resolution mechanism is capable of receiving a content retrieval request from a user, parsing said content retrieval request to determine the contest requested, and appropriately transmitting one of said first content and said second content to said user is response to said content retrieval request.

117. The medium of claim 116, wherein said first content is in first resolution type and said second content is in second resolution type, wherein said content retrieval request comprises a request for one of said first content and said second content.

118. The medium of claim 117, wherein said content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax allowing parsing of the content retrieval request, said parsing enabling the multiple resolution mechanism to determine the request for one of said first content and said second content.

119. The medium of claim 118, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

120. The medium of claim 119, wherein said resolution type may be one said first resolution type and said second resolution type.

121. The medium of claim 118, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

122. The medium of claim 120, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

123. The medium of claim 122, wherein said resolution type may be one said first resolution type and said second resolution type.

124. The medium of claim 117, wherein said first content is identical to said second content.

125. A system for retrieving content over a network, said network having a multiple resolution mechanism, comprising:

means to transmit a content retrieval request to the multiple resolution mechanism for a desired content, said desired content available in multiple resolutions,

wherein said content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax comprising a notation to denote the desired resolution for the content, wherein said predetermined syntax allows the multiple resolution mechanism to parse the content retrieval request for determining the desired resolution for the content; and

means to receive said content in said desired resolution.

126. The system of claim 125, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

127. The system of claim 125, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

128. The system of claim 127, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of Service1.XXx10.YYYY/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

129. A system for transmitting content over a network to a user, wherein said content is available in more than one resolution types, comprising:

means to receive a content retrieval request from a user, said content retrieval request denoting content desired by the user, said content retrieval request further denoting one of said resolution types for said content;

means to parse said content retrieval request to resolve the content requested by said user, wherein said content retrieval request includes one of said resolution types for the content requested;

means to compare said content retrieval request against stored data;

means to determine a location on the network where the content in said one of resolution types is located, wherein said stored data includes a network address for said location;

means to point said user to the location where said content in said one of resolution types is located; and

means to transmit said content in said one of resolution types to the user.

130. The system of claim 129, wherein said network comprises a multiple resolution mechanism that includes the stored data, said multiple resolution mechanism capable of resolving said content retrieval request to determine the resolution type of the content requested.

131. The system of claim 130, wherein content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax allowing parsing of the content retrieval request, said parsing enabling the multiple resolution mechanism for resolving the content requested by said user.

132. The system of claim 130, wherein the content maybe obtained a plurality of vendors.

133. The system of claim 131, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

134. The system of claim 133, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

135. A program stored on a medium readable by a processor, the program, comprising:

a module to receive an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier message from a user,

a module to determine that the message is enhanced with a syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address from an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers;

a module to query a directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers for query results based on the received unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, if the message is un-enhanced;

a module to query the enhanced directory for query results based on the received unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, if the message is enhanced;

a module to select the appropriate associated resolution address from the query results of the enhanced directory for selection results based on the enhanced message syntax, if the enhanced directory was queried;

a module to send the query results to the user, if the enhanced directory was queried; and

a module to send the selection results to the user, if the appropriate associated resolution address from the enhanced directory was selected.

136. The medium of claim 135, wherein the selection is appropriate when the message'"'"'s enhanced syntax matches an entry in enhanced directory records.

137. The medium of claim 135, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

138. The medium of claim 135, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

139. The medium of claim 135, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

140. The medium of claim 138, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

141. The medium of claim 139, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

142. A program stored on a medium readable by a processor, the program, comprising:

a module to generate a unique, persistent, and universal name identifier for information;

a module to specify an enhanced syntax for the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier Including, a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields;

a module to specify at least one location where the information that is associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed;

a module to associate specified locations with the labels; and

a module to send the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, the labels, and the associated specified locations to a directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers.

143. The medium of claim 142, further comprising:

a module to receive the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, the labels, and the associated specified locations at the directory.

144. The medium of claim 143, further comprising:

a module to create a record in a database for the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier including fields for the labels for storing the associated specified locations.

145. The medium of claim 142, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

146. A program stored on a medium readable by a processor, the program, comprising:

a module to query an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria; and

a module to receive query results from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria.

147. The medium of claim 146, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

148. The medium of claim 146, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

149. The medium of claim 146, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

150. The medium of claim 146, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

151. The medium of claim 146, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

152. The medium of claim 150, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

153. The medium of claim 151, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

154. A program stored on a medium readable by a processor, the program, comprising:

a module to receive a query from a user at an enhanced directory that maintains enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information, associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal, name identifiers based on criteria;

a module to select a record matching the query with an associated resolution address for selection results from a database containing enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers,

wherein the enhanced directory includes a database maintaining a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields that store locations where the information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed; and

a module to send selection results to the user from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria.

155. The medium of claim 154, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

156. The medium of claim 154, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

157. The medium of claim 154, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

158. The medium of claim 154, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

159. The medium of claim 154, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

160. The medium of claim 158, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

161. The medium of claim 159, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

162. The medium of claim 160, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

163. A program stored on a medium readable by a processor, the program, comprising:

a module to query an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria;

a module to receive query results from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria

a module to modify the results for a specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier obtained with the received query results,

wherein the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier includes an enhanced syntax that further including;

a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields,

at least one location where information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed; and

a module to send the modification to the enhanced directory for storage for the specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier.

164. The medium of claim 163, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

165. The medium of claim 163, wherein the modification includes changes to any criteria.

166. The medium of claim 165, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

167. The medium of claim 163, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

168. The medium of claim 163, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

169. The medium of claim 163, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

170. The medium of claim 167, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

171. The medium of claim 168, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

172. A program stored on a medium readable by a processor, the program, comprising:

a module to receive a request to modify a record for a specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with modified criteria,

wherein the request includes an enhanced syntax that further includes;

a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields,

at least one location where information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed;

a module to modify the record for the specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with the modified criteria.

173. The medium of claim 172, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

174. The medium of claim 172, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

175. The medium of claim 172, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

176. The medium of claim 175, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

177. The medium of claim 176, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

178. The medium of claim 172, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for specification of an appropriate associated resolution address.

179. The medium of claim 172, wherein the modification includes changes to any criteria.

180. The medium of claim 179, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

181. A program stored on a medium readable by a processor, the program, comprising:

a module to receive a first location for a first content, wherein said first content is retrievable from said first location;

a module to receive first metadata for said first content, wherein said first metadata provides descriptive data regarding said first content;

a module to catalog said first location and said first metadata for said first content so that said first content can be identified by providing said first metadata;

a module to receive a second location for a second content, wherein said second content is retrievable from said second location;

a module to receive second metadata for said second content, wherein said second metadata provides descriptive data regarding said second content; and

a module to catalog said second location and said second metadata for said second content so that said second content can be identified by providing said second metadata,

wherein the multiple resolution mechanism is capable of receiving a content retrieval request from a user, parsing said content retrieval request to determine the contest requested, and appropriately transmitting one of said first content and said second content to said user is response to said content retrieval request.

182. The medium of claim 181, wherein said first content is in first resolution type and said second content is in second resolution type, wherein said content retrieval request comprises a request for one of said first content and said second content.

183. The medium of claim 182, wherein said content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax allowing parsing of the content retrieval request, said parsing enabling the multiple resolution mechanism to determine the request for one of said first content and said second content.

184. The medium of claim 183, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

185. The medium of claim 184, wherein said resolution type may be one said first resolution type and said second resolution type.

186. The medium of claim 183, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

187. The medium of claim 185, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

188. The medium of claim 187, wherein said resolution type may be one said first resolution type and said second resolution type.

189. The medium of claim 182, wherein said first content is identical to said second content.

190. A program stored on a medium readable by a processor, the program, comprising:

a module to transmit a content retrieval request to the multiple resolution mechanism for a desired content, said desired content available in multiple resolutions,

wherein said content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax comprising a notation to denote the desired resolution for the content, wherein said predetermined syntax allows the multiple resolution mechanism to parse the content retrieval request for determining the desired resolution for the content; and

a module to receive said content in said desired resolution.

191. The medium of claim 190, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

192. The medium of claim 190, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

193. The medium of claim 192, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

194. A program stored on a medium readable by a processor, the program, comprising:

a module to receive a content retrieval request from a user, said content retrieval request denoting content desired by the user, said content retrieval request further denoting one of said resolution types for said content;

a module to parse said content retrieval request to resolve the content requested by said user, wherein said content retrieval request includes one of said resolution types for the content requested;

a module to compare said content retrieval request against stored data;

a module to determine a location on the network where the content in said one of resolution types is located, wherein said stored data includes a network address for said location;

a module to point said user to the location where said content in said one of resolution types is located; and

a module to transmit said content in said one of resolution types to the user.

195. The medium of claim 194, wherein said network comprises a multiple resolution mechanism that includes the stored data, said multiple resolution mechanism capable of resolving said content retrieval request to determine the resolution type of the content requested.

196. The medium of claim 195, wherein content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax allowing parsing of the content retrieval request, said parsing enabling the multiple resolution mechanism for resolving the content requested by said user.

197. The medium of claim 195, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

198. The medium of claim 196, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

199. The medium of claim 198, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

200. An apparatus, comprising:

a processor;

a memory, communicatively connected to the processor;

a program, stored in the memory, including,

a module to receive an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier message from a user;

a module determine that the message is enhanced with a syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address from an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers;

a module to query a directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers for query results based on the received unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, if the message is un-enhanced;

a module to query the enhanced directory for query results based on the received unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, if the message is enhanced;

a module to select the appropriate associated resolution address from the query results of the enhanced directory for selection results based on the enhanced message syntax, if the enhanced directory was queried;

a module to send the query results to the user, if the enhanced directory was queried; and

a module to send the selection results to the user, if the appropriate associated resolution address from the enhanced directory was selected.

201. The apparatus of claim 200, wherein the selection is appropriate when the message'"'"'s enhanced syntax matches an entry in enhanced directory records.

202. The apparatus of claim 200, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

203. The apparatus of claim 200, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

204. The apparatus of claim 200, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

205. The apparatus of claim 203, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

206. The apparatus of claim 204, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

207. An apparatus, comprising:

a processor;

a memory, communicatively connected to the processor;

a program, stored in the memory, including,

a module to generate a unique, persistent, and universal name identifier for information;

a module to specify an enhanced syntax for the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier including, a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields;

a module to specify at least one location where the information that is associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed;

a module to associate specified locations with the labels; and

a module to send the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, the labels, and the associated specified locations to a directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers.

208. The apparatus of claim 207, further comprising:

a module to receive the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier, the labels, and the associated specified locations at the directory.

209. The apparatus of claim 208, further comprising:

a module to create a record in a database for the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier including fields for the labels for storing the associated specified locations.

210. The apparatus of claim 207, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

211. An apparatus, comprising:

a processor;

a memory, communicatively connected to the processor;

a program, stored in the memory, including,

a module to query an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria; and

a module to receive query results from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria.

212. The apparatus of claim 211, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

213. The apparatus of claim 211, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

214. The apparatus of claim 211, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

215. The apparatus of claim 211, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

216. The apparatus of claim 211, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

217. The apparatus of claim 215, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

218. The apparatus of claim 216, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

219. An apparatus, comprising:

a processor;

a memory, communicatively connected to the processor;

a program, stored in the memory, including,

a module to receive a query from a user at an enhanced directory that maintains enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria;

a module to select a record matching the query with an associated resolution address for selection results from a database containing enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and locations for information associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers,

wherein the enhanced directory includes a database maintaining a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields that store locations where the information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed; and

a module to send selection results to the user from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria.

220. The apparatus of claim 219, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

221. The apparatus of claim 219, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

222. The apparatus of claim 219, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

223. The apparatus of claim 219, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

224. The apparatus of claim 219, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

225. The apparatus of claim 223, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

226. The apparatus of claim 224, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

227. The apparatus of claim 225, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

228. An apparatus, comprising:

a processor;

a memory, communicatively connected to the processor;

a program, stored in the memory, including,

a module to query an enhanced directory that maintains unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers and multiple locations for information associated with the unique, persistent, and universal name identifiers based on criteria;

a module to receive query results from the enhanced directory based on the query criteria

a module to modify the results for a specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier obtained with the received query results,

wherein the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier includes an enhanced syntax that further including;

a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields,

at least one location where information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed; and

a module to send the modification to the enhanced directory for storage for the specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier.

229. The apparatus of claim 228, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for selection of an appropriate associated resolution address.

230. The apparatus of claim 228, wherein the modification includes changes to any criteria.

231. The apparatus of claim 230, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

232. The apparatus of claim 228, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

233. The apparatus of claim 228, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

234. The apparatus of claim 228, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

235. The apparatus of claim 232, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

236. The apparatus of claim 233, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

237. An apparatus, comprising:

a processor;

a memory, communicatively connected to the processor,

a program, stored in the memory, including,

a module to receive a request to modify a record for a specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with modified criteria,

wherein the request includes an enhanced syntax that further includes;

a plurality of alphanumeric labels that serve as selection targets and fields,

at least one location where information that is associated with the enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier may be accessed;

a module to modify the record for the specified enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with the modified criteria.

238. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the unique, persistent, and universal name identifier is a digital object identifier.

239. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the syntax specifies a selection target entry in an enhanced unique, persistent, and universal name identifier directory.

240. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the syntax specifies a target for selection.

241. The apparatus of claim 240, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

242. The apparatus of claim 241, wherein the syntax specifies a parameter for the target.

243. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the criteria includes an unique, persistent, and universal name identifier with an enhanced syntax that allows for specification of an appropriate associated resolution address.

244. The apparatus of claim 237, wherein the modification includes changes to any criteria.

245. The apparatus of claim 244, wherein the criteria includes metadata.

246. An apparatus, comprising:

a processor;

a memory, communicatively connected to the processor;

a program, stored in the memory, including,

a module to receive a first location for a first content, wherein said first content is retrievable from said first location;

a module to receive first metadata for said first content, wherein said first metadata provides descriptive data regarding said first content;

a module to catalog said first location and said first metadata for said first content so that said first content can be identified by providing said first metadata;

a module to receive a second location for a second content, wherein said second content is retrievable from said second location;

a module to receive second metadata for said second content, wherein said second metadata provides descriptive data regarding said second content; and

a module to catalog said second location and said second metadata for said second content so that said second content can be identified by providing said second metadata,

wherein the multiple resolution mechanism is capable of receiving a content retrieval request from a user, parsing said content retrieval request to determine the contest requested, and appropriately transmitting one of said first content and said second content to said user is response to said content retrieval request.

247. The apparatus of claim 246, wherein said first content is in first resolution type and said second content is in second resolution type, wherein said content retrieval request comprises a request for one of said first content and said second content.

248. The apparatus of claim 247, wherein said content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax allowing parsing of the content retrieval request, said parsing enabling the multiple resolution mechanism to determine the request for one of said first content and said second content.

249. The apparatus of claim 248, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

250. The apparatus of claim 249, wherein said resolution type may be one said first resolution type and said second resolution type.

251. The apparatus of claim 248, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

252. The apparatus of claim 250, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

253. The apparatus of claim 252, wherein said resolution type may be one said first iresolution type and said second resolution type.

254. The apparatus of claim 247, wherein said first content is identical to said second content.

255. An apparatus, comprising:

a processor;

a memory, communicatively connected to the processor;

a program, stored in the memory, including,

a module to transmit a content retrieval request to the multiple resolution mechanism for a desired content, said desired content available in multiple resolutions,

wherein said content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax comprising a notation to denote the desired resolution for the content, wherein said predetermined syntax allows the multiple resolution mechanism to parse the content retrieval request for determining the desired resolution for the content; and

a module to receive said content in said desired resolution.

256. The apparatus of claim 255, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

257. The apparatus of claim 255, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

258. The apparatus of claim 257, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

259. An apparatus, comprising:

a processor,

a memory, communicatively connected to the processor;

a program, stored in the memory, including,

a module to receive a content retrieval request from a user, said content retrieval request denoting content desired by the user, said content retrieval request further denoting one of said resolution types for said content;

a module to parse said content retrieval request to resolve the content requested by said user, wherein said content retrieval request includes one of said resolution types for the content requested;

a module to compare said content retrieval request against stored data;

a module to determine a location on the network where the content in said one of resolution types is located, wherein said stored data includes a network address for said location;

a module to point said user to the location where said content in said one of resolution types is located; and

a module to transmit said content in said one of resolution types to the user.

260. The apparatus of claim 259, wherein said network comprises a multiple resolution mechanism that includes the stored data, said multiple resolution mechanism capable of resolving said content retrieval request to determine the resolution type of the content requested.

261. The apparatus of claim 260, wherein content retrieval request is in a predetermined syntax, said predetermined syntax allowing parsing of the content retrieval request, said parsing enabling the multiple resolution mechanism for resolving the content requested by said user.

262. The apparatus of claim 260, wherein the content may be obtained a plurality of vendors.

263. The apparatus of claim 261, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.

264. The apparatus of claim 263, wherein said predetermined syntax is in the form of [e-mail]/ZZZZ, wherein Service1 identifies resolution type of content requested by the user, XXXX identifies one of said plurality of vendors, 10 identifies a system being used to request and retrieve the content, YYYY identifies an entity that owns rights to the content, and ZZZZ identifies the content.