In today's world we use a number of "tools" to create and maintain
relationships:
- value added services
- information seeking and filtering (NYT, CNN)
- assertion systems that are verifiable or even legally binding
- actionable policies (2 out of 3 bank officer signatures required for loans > 50K)
- price lists (LL Bean catalog)
- contractual agreements (employment contract)
- relationship and trust management systems
- reputation and brand creation (seal of approval)
- trusted third parties (letters of credit)
