Consistent set of interfaces derived from a business object model

• US 20070150387A1
• Filed: 02/27/2006
• Published: 06/28/2007
• Est. Priority Date: 02/25/2005
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: SAP SE
• Original Assignee: SAP SE
• Inventors: Colle, Renzo, Kemmer, Johann, Seubert, Michael, Sala, Paola, Wagner, Andre, Sievers, Ralf, Kiwon, Adam, Doerner, Robert, Hetzer, Stephan, Bock, Daniel, Redmann, Michael, Franke, Stefan, Lotz, Marcus, Kenntner, Joachim, Nowotny, Dietmar, Biehler, Markus, Koester, Arndt, Peter, Markus, Deledda, Giovanni, Oppert, Till, Schueler, Arnulf, Radcke, Ruediger, Thome, Frank, Podhajsky, Georg, Gross, Antonia, Goldmann, Daniel, Gross, Patrick, Zadro, Renato, Becker, Dirk, Brossler, Andreas, Stotz, Sergej, Egetoft, Karsten, Hartmann, Nils, Drouin, Philippe, Stephan, Jan, Kuster, Corinne, Schultze, Dagmar, Kuehl, Axel, Kraehmer, Thilo, Nn, Ramesh, Gnan, Werner, Panzer, Brit, Rasch, Jochen, Hofmann, Christine, Krompholz, Andreas, Weiss, Burkhard, Dielschneider, Ralf, Reinemuth, Frank, Makris, Otto, Winkel, Rudolf
• Granted Patent: US 8,744,937 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 705/31
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 10/10 Office automation; Time management
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 40/00 Finance; Insurance; Tax strategies; Processing of corporate or income taxes
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 40/123 Tax preparation or submission

Abstract

A business object model, which reflects data that used during a given business transaction, is utilized to generate interfaces This business object model facilitates commercial transactions by providing consistent interfaces that are suitable for use across industries, across businesses, and across different departments within a business during a business transaction.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method of generating a request for cancellation of an accounting, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises an accounting cancellation package containing;

an accounting cancellation entity identifying a first document that characterizes cancellation of an accounting, and identifying a type of a second document characterizing posting information previously sent and to be canceled; and

a business transaction document reference package containing a reference entity identifying the second document; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to request cancellation of the accounting.

2. A method as in claim 1, wherein the accounting cancellation package further contains:

a note entity characterizing a reason for the cancellation, and

a date entity characterizing a date on which the cancellation is to be entered.

3. A computer-implemented method of responding to a request to cancel an accounting, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message including an accounting cancellation package in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises the accounting cancellation package containing;

an accounting cancellation entity identifying a first document that characterizes cancellation of an accounting, and identifying a type of a second document characterizing posting information previously sent and to be canceled; and

a business transaction document reference package containing a reference entity identifying the second document; and

initiating cancellation of the accounting of the posting information identified by the reference entity.

4. A computer-implemented method of generating a request for a bank account statement, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a bank account statement package containing;

a bank account statement entity characterizing a statement of a bank regarding turnovers on a customer bank account;

a bank account package containing information characterizing a bank account;

a bank account statement item package containing;

an item entity characterizing a single turnover on a bank account;

a payment explanation package containing information characterizing payments in a bank account statement and containing;

a payment difference explanation package containing information characterizing documents relating to payments in a bank account statement; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a request for a bank account statement

5. A method as in claim 4, wherein the bank account statement package further contains:

a party package containing;

a payment transaction initiator party entity characterizing a party that initiated a payment;

a payment transaction destination party entity characterizing a party that receives payment in case of a bank transfer or whose account is debited in case of a direct debit;

an original payment transaction initiator party entity characterizing a party executing a payment transaction; and

a final payment transaction destination party entity characterizing a party to receive a payment or to be debited;

a bank account statement bank account package containing;

a payment transaction initiator bank account entity characterizing a bank account of a party initiating a payment transaction; and

a payment transaction destination bank account characterizing a bank account of a party receiving a payment or to be debited;

a business transaction document reference package containing;

a payment reference entity characterizing a document from a payment transaction initiator;

a payment order reference entity characterizing a payment order by a payment transaction initiator;

a check reference entity characterizing a check number; and

a bill of exchange reference entity characterizing a bill of exchange number;

wherein the payment explanation package contains;

a payment explanation item characterizing a payment amount;

a payment explanation party package containing;

an original payment transaction initiator party entity characterizing an original party on behalf of which a payment transaction is executed; and

a final payment transaction destination party characterizing a party on behalf of which a payment is received or debited; and

a business document object reference package containing;

a payment explanation payment transaction initiator invoice reference entity characterizing an invoice of a transaction initiator;

a payment explanation payment transaction destination invoice reference entity characterizing an invoice of a party receiving a payment or being debited;

a payment explanation payment transaction initiator contract reference entity characterizing a contract of a transaction initiator;

a payment explanation payment transaction destination contract reference entity characterizing a contract of a party receiving a payment or being debited;

a payment explanation payment transaction initiator purchase order reference entity characterizing a purchase order of a transaction initiator; and

a payment explanation payment transaction destination purchase order reference entity characterizing a reference to a purchase order of a party receiving a payment or being debited; and

wherein the payment difference explanation package contains;

a payment difference explanation item entity characterizing differences between expected and actual payment amounts; and

a business document object reference package containing;

a payment difference explanation payment transaction initiator invoice reference entity characterizing an invoice of a transaction initiator;

a payment difference explanation payment transaction destination invoice reference entity characterizing an invoice of a party receiving a payment or being debited;

a payment difference explanation payment transaction initiator contract reference entity characterizing a contract of a transaction initiator;

a payment difference explanation payment transaction destination contract reference entity characterizing a contract of a party receiving a payment or being debited;

a payment difference explanation payment transaction initiator purchase order reference entity characterizing a purchase order of a transaction initiator; and

a payment difference explanation payment transaction destination purchase order reference entity characterizing a reference to a purchase order of a party receiving a payment or being debited.

6. A computer-implemented method of generating a request for a bank account statement, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a bank account statement package containing;

a bank account statement entity characterizing a statement of a bank regarding turnovers on a customer bank account;

a bank account package containing information characterizing a bank account;

a bank account statement item package containing;

an item entity characterizing a single turnover on a bank account;

a payment explanation package containing information characterizing payments in a bank account statement and containing;

a payment difference explanation package containing information characterizing documents relating to payments in a bank account statement; and

initiating generation of a request for a bank account statement.

7. A computer-implemented method of generating a request for bank account balances for a time period for a group of bank accounts, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises a bank account balance report query package containing;

a bank account balance report query entity characterizing a request for balance information for a bank account;

a bank account package containing information characterizing a bank account for which requests are to be made, wherein the bank account package contains a bank account entity characterizing the bank account for which balance information is to be ascertained; and

an item package containing information characterizing criteria that are relevant for determining bank account balances, wherein the item package contains;

a bank account balance report query item entity characterizing criteria for determining bank account balances, wherein the bank account balance report query item entity contains;

a bank account balance type code characterizing a type of a bank account balance; and

a date period entity identifying a period for which the bank account balances are to be taken into consideration; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to request bank account balances for a time period.

8. A method as in claim 7, wherein the bank account package further contains:

a bank account differentiator entity characterizing a difference between accounts that are managed under a single account number, wherein the bank account differentiator entity contains a bank account differentiator ID characterizing a unique identifier to differentiate between bank accounts.

9. A computer-implemented method of responding to a request for bank account balances for a time period for a group of bank accounts, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message including a bank account balance report query package in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises a bank account balance report query package containing;

a bank account balance report query entity characterizing a request for balance information for a bank account;

a bank account package containing information characterizing the bank account for which requests are to be made, wherein the bank account package contains a bank account entity characterizing a bank account for which balance information is to be ascertained; and

an item package containing information characterizing criteria that are relevant for determining bank account balances, wherein the item package contains;

a bank account balance report query item entity characterizing criteria for determining bank account balances, wherein the bank account balance report query item entity contains;

a bank account balance type code characterizing a type of a bank account balance; and

a date period entity identifying a period for which the bank account balances are to be taken into consideration; and

initiating a request for bank account balances for a time period.

10. A computer-implemented method of generating a response to a request for bank account balances for a time period for a group of bank accounts, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises a bank account balance report package containing a bank account balance report entity containing information about balances of a bank account; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to request bank account balances.

11. A method as in claim 10, wherein the bank account balance report package further contains:

a log package containing information characterizing log messages that are issued when bank account balances are determined wherein the log package contains a log entity characterizing a sequence of log messages issued by an application while executing a task;

a bank account package containing information characterizing information about a bank account for which requests are made, wherein the bank account package contains;

a bank account entity characterizing a bank account to which balance information belongs,

a bank account differentiator entity characterizing the difference between accounts that are managed under one account number, wherein the bank account differentiator entity contains a bank account differentiator ID characterizing a unique identifier to differentiate between bank accounts; and

a bank account balance package containing information characterizing bank account balances, wherein the bank account balance package contains a bank account balance entity containing bank account balances.

12. A computer-implemented method of responding to a request for bank account balances for a time period for a group of bank accounts, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message including a bank account balance report package in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises a bank account balance report package containing a bank account balance report entity containing information about balances of a bank account; and

initiating transmission of the requested bank account balances.

13. A computer-implemented method of generating a request to recognize a business document, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises a business transaction document image recognition package containing;

a business transaction document image recognition request entity characterizing a request for a digitized business document to be recognized;

an attachment package containing an attachment entity identifying the digitized business document; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to request the recognition of business document data in the digitized business document.

14. A computer-implemented method of responding to a request to recognize a business document, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message including a business transaction document image recognition package in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises the business transaction document image recognition package containing;

a business transaction document image recognition request entity characterizing a request for a digitized business document to be recognized;

an attachment package containing an attachment entity identifying the digitized business document; and

initiating recognition of business document data in the digitized business document.

15. A computer-implemented method of generating a request to change, create, or delete items in a catalogue, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a catalogue publication transmission package, the catalogue publication transmission package containing;

a catalogue entity characterizing a structured directory of catalogue items; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a request to change, create, or delete items in a catalogue.

16. A method as in claim 15, wherein the catalogue publication transmission package further contains:

a content package containing;

a content entity characterizing a list of items to be changed, created, or read;

a catalogue item package containing;

a catalogue item entity characterizing information about a catalogue item required to change, create, or delete it;

a catalogue item description entity characterizing an item in various locales;

a catalogue classification entity characterizing a classification of a catalogue item;

a property valuation entity characterizing a value of a property associated with a catalogue item; and

a catalogue item relationship entity characterizing a relationship between two catalogue items; and

a catalogue view package containing;

a catalogue view entity characterizing a restricted subset of a catalogue; and

a catalogue view item entity characterizing a catalogue item to be included in a catalogue view; and

wherein the message further comprises;

a transmission information package containing information characterizing a transmission of an object contained in the message.

17. A computer-implemented method of generating a request to change, create, or delete items in a catalogue, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a catalogue publication transmission package, the catalogue publication transmission package containing;

a catalogue entity characterizing a structured directory of catalogue items; and

initiating a generation of a request to change, create, or delete items in a catalogue.

18. A computer-implemented method of generating a confirmation to a request to change, create, or delete items in a catalogue, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a catalogue publication transmission package, the catalogue publication transmission package containing;

a catalogue publication transmission entity characterizing information required to confirm whether items in a catalogue request can be changed, created, or deleted; and

a catalogue package containing;

a catalogue entity characterizing a catalogue of items which can be changed, created, or deleted; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a confirmation to a request to change, create, or delete items in a catalogue.

19. A computer-implemented method of generating a confirmation to a request to change, create, or delete items in a catalogue, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a catalogue publication transmission package, the catalogue publication transmission package containing;

a catalogue publication transmission entity characterizing information required to confirm whether items in a catalogue request can be changed, created, or deleted; and

a catalogue package containing;

a catalogue entity characterizing a catalogue of items which can be changed, created, or deleted; and

initiating a generation of a confirmation to a request to change, create, or delete items in a catalog.

20. A computer-implemented method of generating a request to carry out one or more payment transactions, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises a collective payment order package containing;

a collective payment order entity characterizing an instruction to a credit institution to carry out one or more payment transactions; and

a payment order package containing a payment order entity characterizing one or more instructions to a credit institution to carry out a payment transaction, and a net amount entity identifying a payment amount associated with the payment order entity; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to carry out the one or more payment transactions.

21. A method as in claim 20, wherein the collective payment order package further contains:

a party package containing information characterizing information concerning parties involved in the payment transaction; and

wherein the party package further contains;

a payment transaction initiator party entity characterizing a party that initiated the payment; and

a bank account package containing information characterizing information concerning banking details of a payment transaction initiator; and

wherein the bank account package further contains;

a payment transaction initiator bank account entity characterizing a bank account of the payment transaction initiator, and

a bank charges bank account entity characterizing a bank account to be debited with bank charges for a collective payment order; and

wherein the payment order package further contains;

a party package containing information characterizing a destination party, wherein the party package further contains;

a payment transaction destination party entity characterizing a party that receives the payment or a party that has an account debited,

an original payment transaction initiator party entity characterizing the party for which a payment order is executed,

a final payment transaction destination party entity characterizing the party that receives the payment or the party that has an account debited; and

a bank account package containing information characterizing banking details for the destination party of the payment transaction, wherein the bank account package further contains a destination bank account entity characterizing a bank account of the destination party for the payment transaction; and

a payment instruction package containing information characterizing information for participating banks concerning payment transaction execution, wherein the payment instruction package further contains;

a payment instruction entity characterizing an instruction to the executing bank related to the payment order,

a correspondence bank details entity characterizing details from a bank of a correspondence bank to be used for forwarding the payment order, wherein the correspondence bank details entity further contains;

a correspondence bank type element characterizing a type of correspondence bank,

a bank element characterizing an identifier for the correspondence bank,

a bank account element characterizing a correspondence bank account; and

a central bank report package containing information characterizing legal reporting information and requirements, wherein the state central bank report package further contains a central bank report item entity characterizing information to satisfy the legal reporting to the state central bank and a requirement for payments to foreign payees; and

a business transaction document reference package containing information characterizing references to different documents involved in the payment transaction, wherein the business transaction document reference package further contains;

a payment reference entity characterizing a reference to a payment document of a payer representing an actual payment,

a check reference entity characterizing a reference to a check used for the payment,

a bill of exchange reference entity characterizing a reference to a bill of exchange used for the payment; and

a payment explanation package containing information characterizing an explanation for the purpose and the amount of the payment, wherein the payment explanation package further contains a payment explanation item entity characterizing a payment amount for a payee.

22. A computer-implemented method of responding to a request to carry out one or more payment transactions, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message including a collective payment order package in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises the collective payment order package containing;

a collective payment order entity characterizing an instruction to a credit institution to carry out one or more payment transactions; and

a payment order package containing a payment order entity characterizing one or more instructions to a credit institution to carry out a payment transaction, and a net amount entity identifying a payment amount associated with the payment order entity; and

initiating recording of the result of the payment transactions to the payment transaction initiator'"'"'s account.

23. A computer-implemented method of generating a notification regarding payment behavior of a business partner, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message contains;

a credit payment behavior summary package, the credit payment behavior summary package containing;

a credit payment behavior summary message entity characterizing key figures regarding payment behavior of a business partner; and

a party package containing information characterizing information about parties relevant to the payment behavior of the business party; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to provide notification of the payment behavior of the business partner.

24. A method as in claim 23, wherein the party package contains:

a debtor party entity characterizing a debtor party having a payment obligation;

a creditor party entity characterizing a party that owns a receivable due from the debtor party; and

a seller party entity characterizing a party that has sold a product to the debtor party; and

wherein the message further contains;

a product information package containing information characterizing information about the product sold to the debtor party, the product information package containing;

a payment information package containing information characterizing information about the payment behavior of the debtor party, the payment information package containing;

a last payment entity characterizing a last payment received from the debtor party;

an oldest open item entity characterizing an oldest open item of the debtor party; and

a maximum level dunned open item entity characterizing an open item of the debtor party having a highest dunning level.

25. A computer-implemented method of responding to a notification of payment behavior of a business partner, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a credit payment behavior summary package, the credit payment behavior summary package containing;

a credit payment behavior summary message entity characterizing key figures regarding payment behavior of a business partner; and

a party package containing information characterizing information about parties relevant to the payment behavior of the business party; and

initiating a notification of the payment behavior of the business partner.

26. A computer-implemented method of generating a query regarding creditworthiness of a party, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a credit worthiness query package containing;

a credit worthiness entity characterizing a query regarding creditworthiness of a party; and

a party package containing;

a debtor party entity characterizing a party for whom creditworthiness information is to be provided; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a query regarding creditworthiness of a party.

27. A method as in claim 26, wherein the party package further contains:

a creditor party entity characterizing a party that owns a receivable due from a debtor; and

a seller party entity characterizing a party that sells or plans to sell a product to a debtor; and

wherein the credit worthiness query package further contains;

a product information package containing information characterizing a product category of a product sold or to be sold to a debtor.

28. A computer-implemented method of generating a query regarding creditworthiness of a party, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a credit worthiness query package containing;

a credit worthiness entity characterizing a query regarding creditworthiness of a party; and

a party package containing;

a debtor party entity characterizing a party for whom creditworthiness information is to be provided; and

initiating a query regarding creditworthiness of a party.

29. A computer-implemented method of generating a response to a query regarding creditworthiness of a party, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a credit worthiness query package containing;

a credit worthiness entity characterizing a query regarding creditworthiness of a party;

a party package containing;

a debtor party entity characterizing a party for whom creditworthiness information is to be provided; and

an information package containing;

a credit rating entity characterizing a credit rating for a debtor party; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a response to a query regarding creditworthiness of a party.

30. A method as in claim 29, wherein the party package further contains:

a creditor party entity characterizing a party that owns a receivable due from a debtor; and

a seller party entity characterizing a party that sells or plans to sell a product to a debtor; and

wherein the credit worthiness query package further contains;

a product information package containing information characterizing a product category of a product sold or to be sold to a debtor; and

wherein the information package further contains;

a credit risk class entity characterizing a risk of non-payment by a debtor party;

a credit limit entity characterizing a credit limit for a debtor party; and

a credit exposure entity characterizing a level of a credit limit that has been consumed.

31. A computer-implemented method of generating a response to a query regarding creditworthiness of a party, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a credit worthiness query package containing;

a credit worthiness entity characterizing a query regarding creditworthiness of a party;

a party package containing;

a debtor party entity characterizing a party for whom creditworthiness information is to be provided; and

an information package containing;

a credit rating entity characterizing a credit rating for a debtor party; and

initiating a response to a query regarding creditworthiness of a party.

32. A computer-implemented method of exchanging information relating to a vendor declaration, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a customs vendor declaration package containing information characterizing a declaration of products to be delivered, the customs vendor declaration package containing;

a customs vendor declaration entity characterizing specifications made by a vendor associated with a product to be delivered; and

a party package containing information characterizing parties of a vendor declaration, the party package containing;

a vendor party entity characterizing a party that issues a vendor declaration for a product to be delivered; and

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that requires a vendor declaration for a product to be purchased; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to exchange information relating to the vendor declaration.

33. A method as in claim 32, wherein the customs vendor declaration package further contains:

an attachment package containing information characterizing a document referring to the customs vendor declaration entity; and

a customs vendor declaration item package containing information characterizing a product to be delivered, wherein the customs vendor declaration item package contains;

an item entity characterizing specifications provided by a vendor associated with a product to be delivered;

a product information package characterizes information associated with a product; and

a customs information package characterizes information associated customs information associated with a product.

34. A computer-implemented method of exchanging information relating to a vendor declaration, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a customs vendor declaration package containing information characterizing a declaration of products to be delivered, the customs vendor declaration package containing;

a customs vendor declaration entity characterizing specifications made by a vendor associated with a product to be delivered; and

a party package containing information characterizing parties of a vendor declaration, the party package containing;

a vendor party entity characterizing a party that issues a vendor declaration for a product to be delivered; and

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that requires a vendor declaration for a product to be purchased; and

initiating an exchange of information relating to a vendor declaration.

35. A computer-implemented method of generating delivery quantity and scheduling information, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a delivery schedule package containing;

a delivery schedule entity characterizing delivery dates, products, quantities, and delivery locations;

a delivery schedule party package containing;

a vendor party entity characterizing a party to deliver goods described in a delivery schedule;

an item package containing;

a business transaction document reference package containing information characterizing references to business documents relevant for a delivery schedule;

a release package containing;

a release entity characterizing an identification and validity of a release instance transferred in a delivery schedule item; and

a product information package containing information characterizing goods to be delivered; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate delivery quantity and scheduling information.

36. A method as in claim 35, wherein the party package further contains:

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys goods or services; and

a bill to party entity characterizing a party that is billed for goods or services;

wherein the item package further contains;

a delivery information package containing;

a previous delivery entity characterizing identification and validity of a last release instance previously transferred in a delivery schedule; and

a cumulative delivery entity characterizing identification and validity of instances previously transferred in a delivery schedule;

a delivery schedule item party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys the goods to be delivered; and

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party that receives a goods delivery;

a location package containing;

a ship from location entity characterizing a place from which ordered goods are delivered;

a trans-shipment location entity characterizing a location to which ordered products are trans-shipped en route to a recipient;

a ship to location entity characterizing a place to which ordered goods are delivered; and

a schedule line package containing;

a schedule line entity characterizing a statement about goods to be delivered; and

a confirmed schedule line entity characterizing a confirmation from a vendor party as terms of a delivery of goods from a scheduling agreement.

37. A computer-implemented method of generating delivery quantity and scheduling information, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchase request package containing;

a purchase request entity characterizing requisition requirements; and

a purchase request item package containing;

a schedule line package characterizing quantity and date information associated with a requisition; and

initiating a generation of delivery quantity and scheduling information.

38. A computer-implemented method of generating delivery quantity and scheduling information, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a delivery schedule package containing;

a delivery schedule entity characterizing delivery dates, products, quantities, and delivery locations;

a delivery schedule party package containing;

a vendor party entity characterizing a party to deliver goods described in a delivery schedule;

an item package containing;

a business transaction document reference package containing information characterizing references to business documents relevant for a delivery schedule;

a release package containing;

a release entity characterizing an identification and validity of a release instance transferred in a delivery schedule item; and

a product information package containing information characterizing goods to be delivered; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate delivery quantity and scheduling information.

39. A method as in claim 38, wherein the party package further contains:

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys goods or services; and

a bill to party entity characterizing a party that is billed for goods or services;

wherein the item package further contains;

a delivery information package containing;

a previous delivery entity characterizing identification and validity of a last release instance previously transferred in a delivery schedule; and

a cumulative delivery entity characterizing identification and validity of instances previously transferred in a delivery schedule;

a delivery schedule item party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys the goods to be delivered; and

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party that receives a goods delivery;

a location package containing;

a ship from location entity characterizing a place from which ordered goods are delivered;

a trans-shipment location entity characterizing a location to which ordered products are trans-shipped en route to a recipient;

a ship to location entity characterizing a place to which ordered goods are delivered; and

a schedule line package containing;

a schedule line entity characterizing a statement about goods to be delivered; and

a confirmed schedule line entity characterizing a confirmation from a vendor party as terms of a delivery of goods from a scheduling agreement.

40. A computer-implemented method of generating delivery quantity and scheduling information, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchase request package containing;

a purchase request entity characterizing requisition requirements; and

a purchase request item package containing;

a schedule line package characterizing quantity and date information associated with a requisition; and

initiating a generation of delivery quantity and scheduling information.

41. A computer-implemented method of generating a notification regarding a shipment event associated with a delivery of goods, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a delivery package containing;

a delivery entity characterizing goods or a combination of goods to be made available for transportation;

a location package containing;

a ship to location entity characterizing a place to which goods are shipped; and

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing a quantity of goods in a delivery; and

a product information package containing information characterizing a product in a delivery item; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a shipment notification regarding an event associated with a delivery of goods.

42. A method as in claim 41, wherein the delivery package further contains:

a handling unit containing information characterizing units of packaging materials and packaged products;

a delivery party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that purchased goods specified in a delivery;

a vendor party entity characterizing is a party that delivers goods;

a product recipient party characterizing is party to whom goods are delivered;

a carrier party entity characterizing a party that transports goods; and

a bill to party entity characterizing a party to whom an invoice for delivered goods is sent;

a transport information package containing;

a transport means entity characterizing a transport mechanism for a delivery; and

a transport tracking entity characterizing information tracking a status of a transport of a delivery;

a delivery information package containing information characterizing delivery conditions related to a shipping notification;

wherein the location package further contains;

a ship from location entity characterizing a place from which goods are shipped; and

a trans-shipment location entity characterizing a location at which goods are to be trans-shipped on their way to a recipient; and

wherein the item package further contains;

a business transaction document reference package containing;

a purchase order reference entity characterizing a reference to a purchase order or an item in a purchase order;

an origin purchase order reference entity characterizing a reference to an original purchase order or an item within an original purchase order;

a scheduling agreement reference entity characterizing an outline agreement item; and

a sales order reference entity characterizing a reference to an item in a sales order; and

a batch package containing information characterizing a batch in a delivery item.

43. A computer-implemented method of generating a notification regarding a shipment event associated with a delivery of goods, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a delivery package containing;

a delivery entity characterizing goods or a combination of goods to be made available for transportation;

a location package containing;

a ship to location entity characterizing a place to which goods are shipped; and

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing a quantity of goods in a delivery; and

a product information package containing information characterizing a product in a delivery item; and

initiating a notification regarding a shipment event associated with a delivery of goods.

44. A computer-implemented method of generating a notification regarding a receipt of a delivery of goods, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a delivery package containing;

a delivery entity characterizing a confirmation of a receipt of a delivery of goods;

a party package containing;

a vendor party entity characterizing party that delivered goods or on whose behalf goods were delivered;

a location package containing information characterizing a place to which goods were delivered; and

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing a quantity of goods that were delivered; and

a product information package containing information characterizing a delivered; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a notification regarding a receipt of a delivery of goods.

45. A method as in claim 44, wherein the party package further contains:

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party that took delivery of goods; and

wherein the item package further contains;

a delivery information package containing information characterizing a delivery information for a delivery of goods.

46. A computer-implemented method of generating a notification regarding a receipt of a delivery of goods, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a delivery package containing;

a delivery entity characterizing goods or a combination of goods to be made available for transportation;

a location package containing;

a ship to location entity characterizing a place to which goods are shipped; and

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing a quantity of goods in a delivery; and

a product information package containing information characterizing a product in a delivery item; and

initiating generation of a notification regarding a receipt of a delivery of goods.

47. A computer-implemented method of generating invoicing information associated with a business transaction, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

an invoice package containing;

an invoice entity characterizing payables and receivables for delivered goods and rendered services;

an invoice party package containing;

a bill to party entity characterizing a party to which an invoice for deliveries received or services rendered is sent; and

a bill from party entity characterizing a party initiating an execution of an invoice; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate invoicing information associated with a business transaction.

48. A method as in claim 47, wherein the invoice party package further contains:

an invoice buyer party entity characterizing a party authorizing deliveries or services;

an invoice seller party entity characterizing a party that sells goods or services;

an invoice product recipient party entity characterizing a party to whom goods are delivered or services are provided;

an invoice vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods or provides services;

an invoice manufacturer party entity characterizing a party that produces goods being invoiced;

an invoice payer party entity characterizing a party that pays for goods or services;

an invoice payee party entity characterizing a party that receives payment for goods or services; and

an invoice carrier party entity characterizing a party that transports goods to be invoiced;

wherein the invoice due package further contains;

a location package containing;

a ship to location entity characterizing a place to which goods are shipped or where services are provided; and

a ship from location entity characterizing a place from which goods are shipped;

an invoice delivery information package containing information characterizing delivery information for goods being invoiced;

an invoice payment information package containing;

a cash discount terms entity characterizing terms of payment; and

a payment form entity characterizing a payment form and required data for the payment form;

an invoice price information package containing information characterizing a total price to be settled for goods or services to be invoiced;

an invoice tax package containing information characterizing tax price components in an invoice;

an invoice attachment package containing information characterizing attachment information associated with an invoice;

an invoice description package containing information characterizing texts associated with an invoice; and

an invoice item package containing;

an item entity characterizing pricing information and taxes for a quantity of product that has been delivered or for a service that has been rendered;

an item hierarchy relationship entity characterizing hierarchical relationships between items;

an item product information package containing;

a product entity characterizing a product in an invoice item; and

a product category entity characterizing a category of a good or service that is being invoiced;

an item price information package containing information characterizing an amount invoiced for goods delivered or services rendered;

an item tax package containing information characterizing tax components in a total amount invoiced for goods delivered or services rendered;

an item package containing;

an item buyer party entity characterizing a party authorizing deliveries or services;

an item seller party entity characterizing a party that sells goods or services;

an item product recipient party entity characterizing a party to whom goods are delivered or services are provided;

an item vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods or provides services;

an item manufacturer party characterizing a party that produces goods being invoiced; and

a carrier party entity characterizing a party that transports goods to be invoiced;

a business transaction document reference package containing;

a purchase order reference entity characterizing a purchase order or an item within a purchase order;

a sales order reference entity characterizing a sales order or an item within a sales order;

a delivery reference entity characterizing a delivery or an item within a delivery;

a service acknowledgement reference entity characterizing a confirmation by a seller that a service has been provided;

an origin invoice reference entity characterizing a reference to an invoice previously sent;

a purchase contract reference entity characterizing a purchase contract or an item within a purchase contract;

a sales contract reference entity characterizing a sales contract or an item within a sales contract;

a buyer product catalogue reference entity characterizing a product catalogue of a buyer or an item within the catalogue; and

a seller product catalogue reference entity characterizing a product catalogue of a seller or an item within the catalogue;

an item attachment package containing information characterizing attachment information associated with an invoice;

an item description package containing information characterizing texts associated with an invoice; and

an item delivery information package characterizing delivery information associated with an invoice.

49. A method as in claim 48, wherein the item package further contains:

an accounting package containing information characterizing an assignment of an invoice item net amount or partial amount to a set of account assignment objects.

50. A computer-implemented method of generating invoicing information associated with a business transaction, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

an invoice package containing;

an invoice entity characterizing payables and receivables for delivered goods and rendered services;

an invoice party package containing;

a bill to party entity characterizing a party to which an invoice for deliveries received or services rendered is sent; and

a bill from party entity characterizing a party initiating an execution of an invoice; and

initiating a generation of invoicing information associated with a business transaction.

51. A computer-implemented method of generating business transaction information, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

an invoice due package containing;

an invoice due entity characterizing details of a business transaction relevant for settling the business transaction;

an invoice due party package containing information characterizing parties to a business transaction;

an invoice due location package containing information characterizing locales associated with a business transaction;

an invoice due delivery information package containing information characterizing a delivery of goods associated with a business transaction;

an invoice due payment information package containing information characterizing payment terms for a business transaction;

an invoice due price information package containing information characterizing a total price to be settled for goods or services provided under a business transaction;

an invoice due account assignment package containing information characterizing account assignment information associated with a business transaction;

an invoice due attachment package containing information characterizing attachment information associated with a settlement of a business transaction;

an invoice due description package containing information characterizing texts associated with a settlement of a business transaction; and

an invoice due item package containing information characterizing item information for a settlement of a business transaction; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate business transaction information.

52. A method as in claim 51, wherein the invoice due party package further contains:

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that purchases goods or services;

a seller party entity characterizing a party that sells goods or services;

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party to whom goods are delivered or services are provided;

a vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods or provides services;

a bill to party entity characterizing a party to which an invoice for goods or services is sent;

a bill from party entity characterizing a party that draws up an invoice for goods or services;

a payer party entity characterizing a party that pays for goods or services; and

a payee party entity characterizing a party that receives payment for goods or services;

wherein the invoice due location package further contains;

a ship to location entity characterizing a place to which goods are shipped or where services are provided; and

a ship from location characterizing a place from which goods are shipped; and

wherein the invoice due payment information package further contains;

a cash discount terms entity characterizing terms of payment; and

a payment form entity characterizing a payment form and required data for the payment form.

53. A method as in claim 51, wherein the item package further contains:

an item entity characterizing information from a business document item that is to be taken into account for a settlement of a business transaction;

an item hierarchy relationship entity characterizing hierarchical relationships between items;

an item product information package containing;

a product entity characterizing a product for which an invoice is due; and

a product category entity characterizing a category of a product or service that is being invoiced;

an item price information package containing;

a price entity characterizing an amount to be settled for a product or service; and

a procurement cost upper limit entity characterizing a quantity or value-based restriction placed on a product or service to be settled;

a business transaction document reference package containing;

a purchase order reference entity characterizing a purchase order or an item within a purchase order;

a sales order reference entity characterizing a sales order or an item within a sales order;

a delivery reference entity characterizing a delivery or an item within a delivery;

a purchase contract reference entity characterizing a purchase contract or an item within a purchase contract;

a sales contract reference entity characterizing a sales contract or an item within a sales contract;

a buyer product catalogue reference entity characterizing a product catalogue of a buyer or an item within the catalogue; and

a vendor product catalogue reference entity characterizing a product catalogue of a vendor or an item within the catalogue;

an item attachment package containing information characterizing attachment information associated with a settlement of a business transaction;

an item due description package containing information characterizing texts associated with a settlement of a business transaction; and

a delivery information package characterizing delivery information associated with a business transaction.

54. A computer-implemented method of generating business transaction information, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

an invoice due package containing;

an invoice due entity characterizing details of a business transaction relevant for settling the business transaction;

an invoice due party package containing information characterizing parties to a business transaction;

an invoice due location package containing information characterizing locales associated with a business transaction;

an invoice due delivery information package containing information characterizing delivery of goods associated with a business transaction;

an invoice due payment information package containing information characterizing payment terms for a business transaction;

an invoice due price information package containing information characterizing a total price to be settled for goods or services provided under a business transaction;

an invoice due account assignment package containing information characterizing account assignment information associated with a business transaction;

an invoice due attachment package containing information characterizing attachment information associated with a settlement of a business transaction;

an invoice due description package containing information characterizing texts associated with a settlement of a business transaction; and

an invoice due item package containing information characterizing item information for a settlement of a business transaction; and

initiating a generation of business transaction information.

55. A computer-implemented method of requesting a generation of a loan contract, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message contains;

a loan contract package, wherein the loan contract package contains;

a loan contract entity characterizing information required to generate a loan contract;

a party package containing information characterizing parties to a loan contract;

a product information package containing information characterizing a product upon which a loan contract is based;

a payment information package containing information characterizing information associated with payment processing;

an item package containing information characterizing conditions of a loan contract; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a loan contract.

56. A method as in claim 55, wherein the party package contains:

a lender party entity characterizing a party that grants a loan;

a borrower party entity characterizing a party that is issued a loan;

a payer party entity characterizing a party responsible for repayment of a loan;

a broker party entity characterizing an agent for issuance of a loan; and

a bailsman party entity characterizing a party responsible for guaranteeing a loan; and

wherein the product information package contains;

a product category entity characterizing a product category of a loan; and

a product entity characterizing a product;

wherein the payment information package contains;

a payment form entity characterizing a form of payment; and

a bank account entity characterizing a bank account;

wherein the loan contract package further contains;

a loan contract attachment package containing information characterizing documents relevant for a loan;

a loan contract item package, wherein the loan contract item package contains;

a loan condition information entity characterizing terms and conditions of a loan containing;

a loan interest condition entity characterizing an interest condition for a loan;

a loan amortizement condition entity characterizing a repayment condition for a loan; and

a loan fee condition entity characterizing a fee condition for a loan; and

a loan contract item party package containing information characterizing all parties to a loan contract.

57. A computer-implemented method of requesting a generation of a loan contract, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message contains;

a loan contract package, wherein the loan contract package contains;

a loan contract entity characterizing information required to generate a loan contract;

a party package containing information characterizing parties to a loan contract;

a product information package containing information characterizing a product upon which a loan contract is based;

a payment information package containing information characterizing information associated with payment processing;

an item package containing information characterizing conditions of a loan contract; and

initiating generation of a loan contract.

58. A computer-implemented method of generating a confirmation of a creation of a loan contract, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message contains;

a loan contract package, wherein the loan contract package comprises;

a loan contract entity characterizing information regarding a creation of a loan contract;

a log package containing information characterizing log messages associated with a creation of al loan contract; and

a payment information package, wherein the payment information package contains;

a bank account entity characterizing information about a bank account to be used to repay a loan; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a confirmation of a creation of a loan contract.

59. A computer-implemented method of generating a confirmation of a creation of a loan contract, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message contains;

a loan contract package, wherein the loan contract package comprises;

a loan contract entity characterizing information regarding a creation of a loan contract;

a log package containing information characterizing log messages associated with a creation of al loan contract;

a payment information package, wherein the payment information package contains;

a bank account entity characterizing information about a bank account to be used to repay a loan; and

initiating a generation of a confirmation of a creation of a loan contract.

60. A computer-implemented method of generating a notice from a buyer to a vendor relating to product activities, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a product activity package containing;

a product activity entity characterizing activities associated with goods of a buyer at a ship to location; and

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing activities associated with goods of a buyer at a ship to location; and

a location package containing;

 

a ship to location entity characterizing a location to which goods are to be delivered; and

a product information package containing information characterizing goods to be delivered; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a notice from a buyer to a vendor relating to product activities.

61. A method as in claim 60, wherein the product activity message further contains:

a party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that purchases goods;

a vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods; and

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party that receives a delivery of goods;

a business transaction document reference package containing information characterizing references to business documents associated with a product activity notice;

wherein the location package further contains;

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from which goods are to be shipped for delivery; and

wherein the item package further contains an inventory package containing;

an inventory entity characterizing stock of a good at a buyer; and

a consignment inventory entity characterizing goods in possession of a buyer that are owned by a vendor until purchased.

62. A computer-implemented method of generating a notice from a buyer to a vendor relating to product activities, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises a product activity package containing;

a product activity entity characterizing activities associated with goods of a buyer at a ship to location; and

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing activities associated with goods of a buyer at a ship to location; and

a location package containing;

a ship to location entity characterizing a location to which goods are to be delivered; and

a product information package containing information characterizing goods to be delivered; and

initiating a generation of a notice from a buyer to a vendor relating to product activities.

63. A computer-implemented method of generating a notice of an event affecting product demand, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a product demand influencing event package containing;

a product demand influencing event entity characterizing a product demand influencing event;

a party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that purchases goods; and

a vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods;

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing activities associated with goods of a buyer at a ship to location; and

a location package containing;

 

a ship to location entity characterizing a location to which goods are to be delivered; and

a product information package containing information characterizing goods to be delivered; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a notice of an event affecting product demand.

64. A method as in claim 63, wherein the product demand influencing event package further contains:

a scheduling package containing information characterizing time orders utilized to define a schedule for logistics associated with goods affected by a product demand influencing event;

wherein the location package further contains;

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from which goods are to be shipped for delivery; and

wherein the item package further contains a product information package containing information characterizing goods affected by a product demand influencing event.

65. A computer-implemented method of generating a notice of an event affecting product demand, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises a product demand influencing event package containing;

a product demand influencing event package containing;

a product demand influencing event entity characterizing a product demand influencing event;

a party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that purchases goods; and

a vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods;

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing activities associated with goods of a buyer at a ship to location; and

a location package containing;

 

a ship to location entity characterizing a location to which goods are to be delivered; and

a product information package containing information characterizing goods to be delivered; and

initiating a generation of a notice of an event affecting product demand.

66. A computer-implemented method of generating information associated with a purchase order, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchase order package containing;

a purchase order entity characterizing a request by a buyer to a seller to provide certain quantities of products or services;

a purchase order party package containing information characterizing parties to a purchase order;

a purchase order location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order delivery information package containing information characterizing a delivery of goods associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order payment information package containing information characterizing payment terms associated with a purchase order;

a price order price information package containing pricing information associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order attachment package containing information characterizing attachments relevant to a purchase order;

a purchase order description package containing information characterizing texts associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order follow up message package containing information characterizing messages associated with a purchase order and occurring subsequent to an issuance of such purchase order; and

a purchase order item package containing information characterizing an item associated with a purchase order;

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate information associated with a purchase order.

67. A method as in claim 66, wherein the purchase order party package further contains:

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys goods or services;

a seller party entity characterizing a party that sells goods or services;

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party to which goods are to be delivered or to whom services are to be provided;

a vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods or services;

a manufacturer party entity characterizing a party that manufactures goods;

a bill to party entity characterizing a party to which an invoice for goods or services is sent;

a payer party entity characterizing a party that pays for goods or services; and

a carrier party entity characterizing a party that transports goods;

wherein the purchase order location package further contains;

a ship to location entity characterizing a location to which goods are to be delivered or where services are to be provided; and

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from where goods are to be shipped;

wherein the purchase order payment information package further contains;

a cash discount terms entity characterizing terms of payment in an ordering process;

a payment form entity characterizing a payment form and associated payment information; and

a payment card entity characterizing a credit card or a customer payment card;

wherein the purchase order description package further contains;

a description entity characterizing text associated with a purchase order; and

a confirmation description entity characterizing text associated with an order confirmation; and

wherein the follow up message package further contains;

a follow up purchase confirmation entity characterizing information associated with a confirmation to be received by a buyer from a seller in connection with a purchase order;

a follow up dispatched delivery notification entity characterizing notification preferences of a buyer relating to outbound deliveries by a seller;

a follow up service acknowledgement request entity characterizing notification preferences of a buyer relating to services provided by a seller; and

a follow up invoice request entity characterizing whether a buyer expects to receive an invoice from a seller.

68. A method as in claim 67, wherein the purchase order item package further contains:

a purchase order item entity characterizing a product ordered in a purchase order;

a hierarchy relationship entity characterizing a hierarchical relationship between items;

a product information package containing;

a product entity characterizing a commercial description of a product; and

a product category entity characterizing a commercial categorization of a product;

a price information package containing;

a price entity characterizing a purchase order price specified by a buyer; and

a confirmed price entity characterizing a purchase order price specified by a seller;

a purchase order item party package containing;

an item buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys goods or services;

an item seller party entity characterizing a party that sells goods or services;

an item product recipient party entity characterizing a party to which goods are to be delivered or to whom services are to be provided;

an item vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods or services;

an item manufacturer party entity characterizing a party that manufactures goods;

an item bill to party entity characterizing a party to which an invoice for goods or services is sent;

an item payer party entity characterizing a party that pays for goods or services; and

an item carrier party entity characterizing a party that transports goods;

a purchase order location package containing;

a ship to location entity characterizing a location to which goods are to be delivered or where services are to be provided; and

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from where goods are to be shipped;

a purchase order item delivery information package containing information characterizing a delivery of goods associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order item business transaction document reference package containing;

a quote reference entity characterizing a reference to a quotation or an item within a quotation;

a purchase contract reference entity characterizing a purchase contract or an item in a purchase contract;

a sales contract reference entity characterizing a sales contract or an item in a sales contract;

an origin purchase order reference entity characterizing an origin purchase order to an item within an origin purchase order;

a buyer product catalogue reference entity characterizing a product catalogue of a buyer or an item within such catalogue; and

a seller product catalogue reference entity characterizing a product catalogue of a seller or an item within such catalogue;

a purchase order item attachment package containing information characterizing attachments relevant to a purchase order;

a purchase order item description package containing;

a description entity characterizing texts associated with a purchase order item; and

a confirmation description entity characterizing texts regarding a purchase order item confirmation; and

a schedule line package containing;

a schedule line entity characterizing a line containing a quantity and date of a performance schedule required by a buyer for a purchase order; and

a confirmed schedule line entity characterizing a quantity and date of a confirmed by a seller for a purchase order.

69. A computer-implemented method of generating information associated with a purchase order, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchase order package containing;

a purchase order entity characterizing a request by a buyer to a seller to provide certain quantities of products or services;

a purchase order party package containing information characterizing parties to a purchase order;

a purchase order location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order delivery information package containing information characterizing a delivery of goods associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order payment information package containing information characterizing payment terms associated with a purchase order;

a price order price information package containing pricing information associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order attachment package containing information characterizing attachments relevant to a purchase order;

a purchase order description package containing information characterizing texts associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order follow up message package containing information characterizing messages associated with a purchase order and occurring subsequent to an issuance of such purchase order; and

a purchase order item package containing information characterizing an item associated with a purchase order;

initiating a generation of information associated with a purchase order.

70. A computer-implemented method of generating status information associated with a purchase order, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchase order information package containing;

a purchase order information entity characterizing a request by a buyer to a seller to provide certain quantities of products or services;

a purchase order information party package containing information characterizing parties to a purchase order;

a purchase order information location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order information delivery information package containing information characterizing a delivery of goods associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order information payment information package containing information characterizing payment information associated with a purchase order;

a price order price information package containing pricing information associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order information attachment package containing information characterizing attachments relevant to a purchase order;

a purchase order information description package containing information characterizing texts associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order information follow up message package containing information characterizing messages to be sent subsequent to issuance of a purchase order; and

a purchase order information item package containing information characterizing an item;

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate status information associated with a purchase order.

71. A method as in claim 70, wherein the purchase order information party package further contains:

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys goods or services;

a seller party entity characterizing a party that sells goods or services;

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party to which goods are to be delivered or to whom services are to be provided;

a vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods or services;

a manufacturer party entity characterizing a party that manufactures goods;

a bill to party entity characterizing a party to which an invoice for goods or services is sent;

a payer party entity characterizing a party that pays for goods or services; and

a carrier party entity characterizing a party that transports goods;

wherein the purchase order information location package further contains;

a ship to location entity characterizing a location to which goods are to be delivered or where services are to be provided; and

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from where goods are to be shipped;

wherein the purchase order information payment information package further contains;

a cash discount terms entity characterizing terms of payment in an ordering process;

a payment form entity characterizing a payment form and associated payment information; and

a payment card entity characterizing a credit card or a customer payment card;

wherein the purchase order information description package further contains;

a description entity characterizing text associated with a purchase order; and

a confirmation description entity characterizing text associated with an order confirmation; and

wherein the follow up message package further contains;

a follow up purchase confirmation entity characterizing information associated with a confirmation to be received by a buyer from a seller in connection with a purchase order;

a follow up dispatched delivery notification entity characterizing notification preferences of a buyer relating to outbound deliveries by a seller;

a follow up service acknowledgement request entity characterizing notification preferences of a buyer relating to services provided by a seller; and

a follow up invoice request entity characterizing whether a buyer expects to receive an invoice from a seller.

72. A method as in claim 71, wherein the purchase order information item package further contains:

a purchase order information item entity characterizing a product ordered in a purchase order;

a hierarchy relationship entity characterizing a hierarchical relationship between items;

a product information package containing;

a product entity characterizing a commercial description of a product; and

a product category characterizing a commercial categorization of a product;

a price information package containing;

a price entity characterizing a purchase order price specified by a buyer;

a confirmed price entity characterizing a purchase order price specified by a seller; and

a procurement cost upper limit entity characterizing a cost upper limit for one or more types of procurement costs;

a purchase order information item party package containing;

an item buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys goods or services;

an item seller party entity characterizing a party that sells goods or services;

an item product recipient party entity characterizing a party to which goods are to be delivered or to whom services are to be provided;

an item vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods or services;

an item manufacturer party entity characterizing a party that manufactures goods;

an item bill to party entity characterizing a party to which an invoice for goods or services is sent;

an item payer party entity characterizing a party that pays for goods or services; and

an item carrier party entity characterizing a party that transports goods;

a purchase order information location package containing;

a ship to location entity characterizing a location to which goods are to be delivered or where services are to be provided; and

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from where goods are to be shipped;

a purchase order information item delivery information package containing information characterizing a delivery of goods associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order information item business transaction document reference package containing;

a quote reference entity characterizing a reference to a quotation or an item within a quotation;

a purchase contract reference entity characterizing a purchase contract or an item in a purchase contract;

a sales contract reference entity characterizing a sales contract or an item in a sales contract;

an origin purchase order reference entity characterizing an origin purchase order to an item within an origin purchase order;

a buyer product catalogue reference entity characterizing a product catalogue of a buyer or an item within such catalogue; and

a seller product catalogue reference entity characterizing a product catalogue of a seller or an item within such catalogue;

a purchase order information item attachment package containing information characterizing attachments relevant to a purchase order; and

a purchase order information item description package containing;

a description entity characterizing texts associated with a purchase order item; and

a confirmation description entity characterizing texts regarding a purchase order item confirmation.

73. A computer-implemented method of generating status information associated with a purchase order, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchase order information package containing;

a purchase order information entity characterizing a request by a buyer to a seller to provide certain quantities of products or services;

a purchase order information party package containing information characterizing parties to a purchase order;

a purchase order information location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order information delivery information package containing information characterizing a delivery of goods associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order information payment information package containing information characterizing payment information associated with a purchase order;

a price order price information package containing pricing information associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order information attachment package containing information characterizing attachments relevant to a purchase order;

a purchase order information description package containing information characterizing texts associated with a purchase order;

a purchase order information follow up message package containing information characterizing messages to be sent subsequent to issuance of a purchase order; and

a purchase order information item package containing information characterizing an item; and

initiating a generation of status information associated with a purchase order.

74. A computer-implemented method of generating a request querying a buyer to procure products or services, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchase request package containing;

a purchase request entity characterizing requisition requirements; and

a purchase request item package containing;

a schedule line package containing information characterizing quantity and date information associated with a requisition;

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a request querying a buyer to procure products or services.

75. A method as in claim 74, wherein the purchase request party package further contains:

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys goods or services;

a seller party entity characterizing a party that sells goods or services;

a proposed seller party entity characterizing a preferred party for selling goods or services;

a requestor party entity characterizing a party that requests procurement of goods or services;

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party to which goods are to be delivered or to whom services are to be provided;

a manufacturer party entity characterizing a party that manufactures goods;

wherein the message further contains;

a purchase request location package grouping information associated with locations relevant for a requisition, wherein the purchase request location package comprises;

a ship to location entity characterizing a location to which goods are to be delivered or where services are to be provided;

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from where goods are to be shipped;

wherein the purchase request item package further contains;

a purchase request entity characterizing a requested product;

a hierarchy relationship entity characterizing relationship between items in an item hierarchy;

a product information package containing;

a product entity characterizing a product; and

a product category entity characterizing a product category;

a price information package containing;

a price entity characterizing a specified purchase order price; and

a procurement cost upper limit entity characterizing upper procurement limits;

an item party package containing information characterizing parties to a requisition;

a location package containing information characterizing location information associated with a requisition;

an object reference package containing information characterizing business documents relevant for a requisition, wherein the object reference package contains;

a purchase contract reference entity characterizing a purchase contract or an item in a purchase contract;

a purchase order reference entity characterizing a purchase order or an item in a purchase order;

a project reference entity characterizing a project or an element within a project associated with a requisition; and

a project element assignment entity characterizing an assignment between two elements of a project associated with a requisition; and

an accounting object set assignment package containing information characterizing accounting information associated with a requisition;

an attachment package containing information characterizing attachments relevant to a requisition; and

a description package containing information characterizing texts relating to a requisition;

wherein the schedule line package further contains;

a schedule line entity characterizing quantity and dates of a performance period associated with a requisition;

a delivery period entity characterizing a delivery period for a requisition; and

a quantity entity characterizing a quantity specified by a requisition.

76. A computer-implemented method of generating a request querying a buyer to procure products or services, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchase request package containing;

a purchase request entity characterizing requisition requirements; and

a purchase request item package containing;

a schedule line package containing information characterizing quantity and date information associated with a requisition; and

initiating a generation of a request querying a buyer to procure products or services.

77. A computer-implemented method of generating a confirmation of a fulfillment of a requisition, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchase request package containing;

a purchase request entity characterizing a confirmation of requirements associated with a procurement of products or services; and

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing a product; and

a purchase order package containing information characterizing a level of fulfillment of a requirement by a purchase order;

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a confirmation of a fulfillment of a requisition.

78. A computer-implemented method of generating a confirmation of a fulfillment of a requisition, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchase request package containing;

a purchase request entity characterizes a confirmation of requirements associated with a procurement of products or services; and

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing a product; and

a purchase order package containing information characterizing a level of fulfillment of a requirement by a purchase order;

initiating a generation of a confirmation of a fulfillment of a requisition.

79. A computer-implemented method of generating purchasing contract information, the method comprising:

80. A method as in claim 79, wherein the purchasing contract party package further contains:

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys goods or services;

a seller party entity characterizing a party that sells goods or services;

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party to which goods are to be delivered or to whom services are to be provided; and

a contract release authorized party entity characterizing a party that is authorized to effect releases from a purchasing contract;

wherein the purchasing contract attachment package further contains;

an attachment web address entity characterizing a location of documents referring to a purchasing contract;

an internal attachment web address entity characterizing a location of internal documents referring to a purchasing contract; and

a legal document attachment entity characterizing legal text of a purchasing contract; and

wherein the purchasing contract description package further contains;

a description entity characterizing text associated with a purchasing contract; and

an internal description entity characterizing internal text associated with a purchasing contract.

81. A method as in claim 79, wherein the purchasing contract item package further contains:

a purchasing contract item entity characterizing a product or service in a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract item product information package containing;

a product entity characterizing a product or service; and

a product category entity characterizing a category for a product or service;

a purchasing contract item price information package containing information characterizing pricing of goods or services identified in a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract item location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract item party package containing information characterizing parties to a purchasing contract parties to a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract item delivery information package containing information characterizing a delivery requested in a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract business document object reference package containing;

a quote reference entity characterizing a bid of a purchaser or a bid to an item within a bid of a purchaser;

an operational purchasing contract reference entity characterizing an operational purchasing contract or an item in an operational purchasing contract; and

a buyer product catalogue reference entity characterizing a product catalogue of a purchaser or to an item within such a catalogue;

a purchasing contract item attachment package containing information characterizing documents referring to a purchasing contract; and

a purchasing contract item description package containing information characterizing texts associated with a purchasing contract.

82. A computer-implemented method of generating purchasing contract information, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchasing contract package containing;

a purchasing contract entity characterizing an agreement to order products or provide services within a certain period of time;

a purchasing contract party package containing information characterizing parties to a purchasing contract parties to a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract delivery information package containing information characterizing a delivery requested in a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract payment information package containing information characterizing payment terms for a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract price information package containing information characterizing pricing of goods or services identified in a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract attachment package containing information characterizing documents referring to a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract description package containing information characterizing texts associated with a purchasing contract; and

a purchasing contract item package containing information characterizing a product or service in a purchasing contract; and

initiating a generation of purchasing contract information.

83. A computer-implemented method of generating a notification of a purchasing contract release, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchasing contract release package containing;

a purchasing contract release entity characterizing a notification regarding a performed release with reference to a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract release party package containing information characterizing a release of a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract release location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a release of a purchasing contract; and

a purchasing contract release item package containing;

purchasing contract release item entity characterizing an item in a purchasing contract release;

a purchasing contract release item location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a contract release item; and

a purchasing contract release item business document object package containing information characterizing references to business documents relevant to an item in a purchasing contract release; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a notification of a purchasing contract release.

84. A computer-implemented method of generating a notification of a purchasing contract release, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a purchasing contract release package containing;

a purchasing contract release entity characterizing a notification regarding a performed release with reference to a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract release party package containing information characterizing a release of a purchasing contract;

a purchasing contract release location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a release of a purchasing contract; and

a purchasing contract release item package containing;

purchasing contract release item entity characterizing an item in a purchasing contract release;

a purchasing contract release item location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a contract release item; and

a purchasing contract release item business document object package containing information characterizing references to business documents relevant to an item in a purchasing contract release; and

initiating a generation of a notification of a purchasing contract release.

85. A computer-implemented method of generating replenishment order information, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a replenishment order package containing;

a replenishment order entity characterizing a replenishment order executed by a vendor for a customer; and

a replenishment order item package containing;

a replenishment order item entity characterizing an item in a replenishment order;

a replenishment order item location package containing;

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from which products listed in a replenishment order are to be delivered; and

a ship to location entity characterizing a location from which products listed in a replenishment order are to be delivered; and

a replenishment order item product information package containing information characterizing a product associated with a replenishment order; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate replenishment order information.

86. A method as in claim 85, wherein the replenishment order package further contains:

a replenishment order party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that purchases goods associated with a replenishment order;

a seller party entity characterizing a party that sells goods associated with a replenishment order; and

a vendor party entity characterizing a party to provide a replenishment delivery;

a replenishment order delivery information package containing information characterizing a requested delivery for a replenishment order;

a replenishment order payment information package containing information characterizing payment information for a replenishment order; and

a replenishment order handling unit package containing information characterizing packing requirements for product associated with a replenishment order.

87. A method as in claim 85, wherein the replenishment order item package further contains:

a business transaction documents reference package containing;

a purchase contract reference entity characterizing a purchase contract or an item in a purchase contract;

a scheduling agreement reference entity characterizing a scheduling agreement or an item in a scheduling agreement;

a purchase order reference entity characterizing a purchase order of a buyer or a purchase order item created by a vendor;

an origin purchase order reference entity characterizing an original purchase order or to an item within an original purchase order;

a sales order reference entity characterizing a sales order or an item in a sales order; and

an origin sales order reference entity characterizing an original sales order or an item within an original sales order;

a replenishment order item party package containing;

a replenishment order item buyer party entity characterizing a party that purchases goods associated with a replenishment order;

a replenishment order item product recipient party entity characterizing a party to receive goods associated with a replenishment order; and

a replenishment order item bill to party entity characterizing a party to receive an invoice associated with a replenishment order;

a replenishment order item product information package containing information characterizing a product listed in a replenishment order;

a replenishment order item batch package containing information characterizing a batch to be delivered;

a replenishment order item promotion package containing information characterizing marketing promotions associated with a replenishment order;

a replenishment order item price information package containing pricing information of an item in a replenishment order; and

a replenishment order item schedule line package containing;

a schedule line entity characterizing quantity and scheduling associated with a replenishment order; and

a confirmed schedule line entity characterizing a confirmation of quantity and scheduling associated with a replenishment order; and

wherein the replenishment order location package further contains;

a trans-shipment location entity characterizing a location at product in a replenishment order is transferred from a first transportation mechanism to a second transportation mechanism.

88. A computer-implemented method of generating replenishment order information, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a replenishment order package containing;

a replenishment order entity characterizing a replenishment order executed by a vendor for a customer; and

a replenishment order item package containing;

a replenishment order item entity characterizing an item in a replenishment order;

a replenishment order item location package containing;

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from which products listed in a replenishment order are to be delivered; and

a ship to location entity characterizing a location from which products listed in a replenishment order are to be delivered; and

a replenishment order item product information package containing information characterizing a product associated with a replenishment order; and

initiating a generation of replenishment order information.

89. A computer-implemented method of generating replenishment order proposal information, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application 10 executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a replenishment order proposal package containing;

a replenishment order proposal entity characterizing a proposal for an order to replenish product supply; and

a replenishment order proposal item entity characterizing an item in a replenishment order proposal;

a replenishment order proposal item location package containing;

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from which products listed in a replenishment order proposal are to be delivered; and

a ship to location entity characterizing a location from which products listed in a replenishment order proposal are to be delivered; and

a replenishment order proposal item product information package containing information characterizing a product associated with a replenishment order proposal; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate replenishment order proposal information.

90. A method as in claim 89, wherein the replenishment order proposal package further contains:

a replenishment order proposal party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that buys goods associated with a replenishment order;

a vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods associated with a replenishment order; and

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party to which goods associated with a replenishment order are delivered; and

a replenishment order proposal business document object reference package containing information characterizing business documents relating to a replenishment order.

91. A method as in claim 90, wherein the replenishment order proposal item package further contains:

a replenishment order proposal item price information package containing information characterizing pricing of a proposed replenishment order;

a replenishment order proposal item party package containing information characterizing parties associated with a proposed replenishment order;

a replenishment order proposal item location package containing;

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from which products listed in a replenishment order proposal are to be delivered; and

a ship to location entity characterizing a location from which products listed in a replenishment order proposal are to be delivered;

a replenishment order proposal item business document object reference package containing information characterizing business documents relating to a replenishment order;

a schedule line package containing;

a schedule line entity characterizing quantity and scheduling associated with a replenishment order proposal; and

a confirmed schedule line entity characterizing a confirmation of quantity and scheduling associated with a replenishment order proposal; and

wherein the product information package further contains;

a product category entity characterizing a category of a product associated with a replenishment order proposal; and

a vendor product category entity characterizing a vendor category of a product associated with a replenishment order proposal.

92. A computer-implemented method of generating replenishment order proposal information, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a replenishment order proposal package containing;

a replenishment order proposal entity characterizing a proposal for an order to replenish product supply; and

a replenishment order proposal item package containing;

a replenishment order proposal item entity characterizing an item in a replenishment order proposal; and

a replenishment order proposal item location package containing;

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from which products listed in a replenishment order proposal are to be delivered; and

a ship to location entity characterizing a location from which products listed in a replenishment order proposal are to be delivered; and

a replenishment order proposal item product information package containing information characterizing a product associated with a replenishment order proposal; and

initiating a generation of replenishment order proposal information.

93. A computer-implemented method of generating a notification associated with a return delivery, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a return delivery instruction package containing;

a return delivery instruction entity characterizing logistical instructions to a vendor for a future return delivery; and

a return delivery instruction item package containing a product information package containing information characterizing characterizing a return quantities and scheduling for a return delivery;

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a notification associated with a return delivery.

94. A method as in claim 93, wherein the return delivery instruction package further comprises:

a party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that has purchased goods being returned or has reordered a repurchase of goods;

a vendor entity characterizing a party that sends backs goods to be returned; and

a product recipient entity characterizing a company to which goods are returned; and

a location package containing;

a ship to entity characterizing a location from which goods for return are sent back; and

a ship to location characterizing a location to which goods for return are sent back;

wherein the return delivery instruction package further contains;

a return delivery item package containing;

a return delivery instruction item entity characterizing a quantity of product to be returned and an associated delivery period;

a delivery item business transaction document reference package characterizing business document references relevant to a product to be returned;

a party package containing information characterizing business partners relevant to a product to be returned;

a batch package containing information characterizing a batch of product to be returned; and

a delivery handling unit package containing information characterizing handling requirements for a product to be returned.

95. A computer-implemented method of generating a notification associated with a return delivery, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a return delivery instruction package containing;

a return delivery instruction entity characterizing logistical instructions to a vendor for a future return delivery; and

a return delivery instruction item package containing a product information package containing information characterizing a return quantities and scheduling for a return delivery; and

initiating a generation of a notification associated with a return delivery.

96. A computer-implemented method of exchanging information associated with a request for quotation, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a package containing;

a party package containing information characterizing parties associated with a request for quotation;

a location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a request for quotation;

a first delivery information package containing information characterizing a required delivery associated with a request for quotation;

a payment information package containing information characterizing payment information associated with a request for quotation;

a product information package containing information characterizing a product category associated with a request for quotation;

a business transaction document reference package containing information characterizing business document references associated with a request for quotation;

a follow up business transaction document reference package containing information characterizing business transaction documents expected by a buying party associated with a request for quotation;

an attachment package containing information characterizing documents referring to a request for quotation;

a description package containing information characterizing text visible to parties to a request for quotation;

an item package containing;

a product information package containing information characterizing a product tendered by a request for quotation;

a party package containing information characterizing parties associated with a request for quotation;

a second delivery information package containing information characterizing delivery of a product associated with a request for quotation;

a business transaction document reference package containing information characterizing a required delivery associated with a request for quotation;

an attachment package containing information characterizing documents referring to a request for quotation;

a description package containing information characterizing text visible to parties to a request for quotation; and

a schedule line package containing information characterizing quantity and date information associated with a request for quotation; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to exchange information associated with a request for quotation.

97. A method as in claim 96, wherein the information is selected from a group comprising:

a request from a buyer to a bidder to start a request for quotation process, a request from a buyer to a bidder to modify a request for quotation during a request for quotation process, a cancellation of a request for quotation, a notification from a bidder to a buyer containing a response by the bidder to an invitation to respond to a request for quotation, a notification of an acceptance of a bid in response to a request for quotation, a notification of a declination of a bid in response to a request for quotation, a confirmation from a bidder to a buyer indicating that the bidder intends to submit a bid in response to a request for quotation, a confirmation from a bidder to a buyer indicating an acceptance or rejection of a quotation accepted by the buyer, a request to generate a legal text document in response to an invitation to bid for quotation, and a notification of a generation of a legal text document in response to an invitation to bid on a request for quotation.

98. A computer-implemented method of exchanging information associated with a request for quotation, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a package containing;

a party package containing information characterizing parties associated with a request for quotation;

a location package containing information characterizing locations associated with a request for quotation;

a first delivery information package containing information characterizing a required delivery associated with a request for quotation;

a payment information package containing information characterizing payment information associated with a request for quotation;

a product information package containing information characterizing a product category associated with a request for quotation;

a business transaction document reference package containing information characterizing business document references associated with a request for quotation;

a follow up business transaction document reference package containing information characterizing business transaction documents expected by a buying party associated with a request for quotation;

an attachment package containing information characterizing documents referring to a request for quotation;

a description package containing information characterizing text visible to parties to a request for quotation;

an item package containing;

a product information package containing information characterizing a product tendered by a request for quotation;

a party package containing information characterizing parties associated with a request for quotation;

a second delivery information package containing information characterizing delivery of a product;

a business transaction document reference package containing information characterizing a required delivery associated with a request for quotation;

an attachment package containing information characterizing documents referring to a request for quotation;

a description package containing information characterizing text visible to parties to a request for quotation; and

a schedule line package containing information characterizing quantity and date information associated with a request for quotation; and

initiating an exchange of information associated with a request for quotation.

99. A computer-implemented method of exchanging information associated with services that have been entered, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a service acknowledgement package containing;

a service acknowledgement entity characterizing information about a confirmation by a purchase of an entered service; and

a party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that purchases goods or services; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to exchange information associated with services that have been entered.

100. A method as in claim 99, wherein the party package further contains:

a seller party entity characterizing a party selling goods or services;

a product recipient party entity characterizing a party to which goods are delivered or for whom services are provided;

a vendor party entity characterizing a party that delivers goods or provides services;

a manufacturer party entity characterizing a party that manufactures goods;

wherein the service acknowledgement package further contains;

a location package containing information characterizing a location at which products have been delivered or a service provided;

an attachment package containing information characterizing a document referring to a service acknowledgement;

a description package containing information characterizing text regarding a service acknowledgement; and

an item package containing;

an item entity characterizing an entered service or service product;

a hierarchy relationship entity characterizing a relationship between items in a hierarchy;

a product information package containing;

a product entity characterizing a product; and

a product category entity characterizing a category for a product;

a price information package containing information characterizing price information for a service acknowledgement item;

a party package containing information characterizing parties associated with a service acknowledgement;

a location package containing information characterizing a location at which a products have been delivered or services provided;

a business document object reference package containing;

a purchase order reference entity characterizing a purchase order or an item within a purchase order;

a service acknowledgement reference entity characterizing a previously sent service acknowledgement;

a purchase contract reference entity characterizing a reference to a purchase contract or an item within a purchase contract;

a sales contract reference entity characterizing a reference to a sales contract or an item within a sales contract;

a buyer product catalogue reference entity characterizing a reference to a product catalogue of a buyer or an item within a product catalogue of a buyer;

a seller product catalogue reference entity characterizing a reference to a product catalogue of a seller or an item within a product catalogue of a seller;

an attachment package containing information characterizing a document referring to a service acknowledgement; and

a description package containing information characterizing text regarding a service acknowledgement.

101. A method as in claim 100, wherein the business document object reference package further contains:

a project reference entity characterizing a reference to a project or an element within a project; and

a project element assignment entity characterizing an assignment of two elements within a project that is referenced by an item of a service acknowledgment; and

wherein the item package further contains;

an accounting package containing information characterizing account assignment information.

102. A computer-implemented method of exchanging information associated with services that have been entered, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a service acknowledgement package containing;

a service acknowledgement entity characterizing information about a confirmation by a purchase of an entered service; and

a party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party that purchases goods or services; and

initiating an exchange of information associated with services that have been entered.

103. A computer-implemented method of generating a supply chain exception notification, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a supply chain exception package containing;

a supply chain exception report entity characterizing an exception that occurred in a supply chain;

a business transaction document reference package containing;

a purchaser order entity characterizing a reference to a purchase order or an item within a purchase order for which an exception in a supply chain has occurred;

a location package containing;

a ship from location characterizing a location from which ordered products are delivered;

a product information package characterizing a product associated with a supply chain exception; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a supply chain exception notification.

104. A method as in claim 103, wherein the message further contains:

a party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a buyer of goods or services;

a vendor party entity characterizing a vendor of goods or services; and

a product recipient entity characterizing a recipient of goods or services;

wherein the business transaction document reference contains;

a scheduling agreement reference entity characterizing a reference to an item in a scheduling agreement;

a sales order reference entity characterizing a reference to a sales order or to an item in a sales order; and

an inbound delivery reference entity characterizing an inbound delivery or an item of an inbound delivery;

wherein the supply chain exception package further contains;

a batch package containing;

a batch entity characterizing a batch of products;

a property valuation package characterizing properties of a characteristic of a supply chain exception;

a log package containing;

a validation log entity characterizing a logistics planning or logistics execution check log; and

an item entity; and

wherein the location package further contains;

a ship to location entity characterizing a location where ordered products are delivered.

105. A computer-implemented method of generating a supply chain exception notification, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a supply chain exception package containing;

a supply chain exception report entity characterizing an exception that occurred in a supply chain;

a business transaction document reference package containing;

a purchaser order entity characterizing a reference to a purchase order or an item within a purchase order for which an exception in a supply chain has occurred;

a location package containing;

a ship from location characterizing a location from which are ordered products are delivered;

a product information package characterizing a product associated with a supply chain exception; and

initiating generation of a supply chain exception notification.

106. A computer-implemented method of generating a tax declaration, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a declaration package containing;

a declaration entity characterizing a tax return based on a purchase;

a log package containing;

a validation log entity characterizing log messages from a tax authority associated with a receipt and validation of a tax return based on a purchase;

a party package containing;

a tax payer party entity characterizing a party liable for tax on a purchase; and

a tax authority party entity characterizing a tax authority that receives a tax declaration; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate a tax declaration.

107. A method as in claim 106, wherein the log package further contains:

an item entity characterizing a log of a receipt and validation of a tax refund based on a purchase;

wherein the party package further contains;

a tax operator entity characterizing a party that creates and sends a tax return for tax on purchases; and

wherein the declaration package further contains;

an item package containing information characterizing reported taxes on purchases.

108. A computer-implemented method of generating of generating a tax declaration, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a declaration package containing;

a declaration entity characterizing a tax return based on a purchase;

a log package containing;

a validation log entity characterizing log messages from a tax authority associated with a receipt and validation of a tax return based on a purchase;

a party package containing;

a tax payer party entity characterizing a party liable for tax on a purchase; and

a tax authority party entity characterizing a tax authority that receives a tax declaration; and

initiating a generation of a tax declaration.

109. A computer-implemented method of generating information associated with a vendor initiated purchase order, the method comprising:

generating an electronic message by a first application, the first application executing in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a vendor generated order package containing;

a vendor generated order entity characterizing a purchaser order that is initiated by a vendor for a customer;

a party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party to receive a goods replenishment delivery; and

a vendor party entity characterizing a party to provide a goods replenishment delivery;

a location package containing;

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from which goods associated with a purchase order is to be delivered; and

a ship to location entity characterizing a location at which goods associated with a purchase order is to be delivered; and

a vendor generated order item package containing;

a vendor generated order item entity characterizing quantities of goods and associated delivery and location conditions for goods in a purchase order; and

a product information package containing information characterizing goods associated with a purchase order; and

initiating transmission of the message to a second application to generate information associated with a vendor initiated purchase order.

110. A method as in claim 109, wherein the vendor generated order item package further contains:

a business transaction document reference package containing;

a purchasing contract reference entity characterizing a purchase contract or an item in a purchase contract; and

a sales order reference entity characterizing a sales order or an item in a sales order;

a promotion package containing information characterizing marketing promotions relevant to goods associated with a purchase order; and

a schedule line package containing;

a schedule line entity characterizing quantity and scheduling dates for replen ishment deliveries of goods associated with a purchase order; and

a confirmed schedule line entity characterizing confirmed quantity and scheduling dates for replenishment deliveries of goods associated with a purchase order;

wherein the location package further contains;

a trans-shipment location entity characterizing a location at which delivery of products using a first transport mechanism changes to second transport mechanism; and

wherein the vendor generated order package further contains;

a handling unit containing information characterizing packing requirements for goods associated with a replenishment order.

111. A computer-implemented method of generating information associated with a vendor initiated purchase order, the method comprising:

receiving an electronic message in a landscape of computer systems providing message-based services, wherein the message comprises;

a vendor generated order package containing;

a vendor generated order entity characterizing a purchaser order that is initiated by a vendor for a customer;

a party package containing;

a buyer party entity characterizing a party to receive a goods replenishment delivery; and

a vendor party entity characterizing a party to provide a goods replenishment delivery;

a location package containing;

a ship from location entity characterizing a location from which goods associated with a purchase order is to be delivered; and

a ship to location entity characterizing a location at which goods associated with a purchase order is to be delivered; and

a vendor generated order item package containing;

a vendor generated order item entity characterizing quantities of goods and associated delivery and location conditions for goods in a purchase order; and

a product information package containing information characterizing goods associated with a purchase order; and

initiating generation of information associated with a vendor initiated purchase order.