A method and apparatus for executing messages using a plurality of applications resident in a memory means (276) of an electronic card (100), is disclosed. The electronic card (100) is adapted for coupling to a reader device (300) to facilitate reading of the memory means (276). The reading device (300) is configured for communication with a remote apparatus (computer 700) having a further application executing thereon. The one or more card resident applications are required to process one or more messages received from the further application. Depending on the determination, the one or more messages are executed using a first of the card resident applications if one or more predetermined criteria are met. Alternatively, the one or more messages are executed using a second of the card resident applications if one or more further criteria are met. The one or more further criteria are determined via an array containing the one or more further criteria.