A procedure is a template that specifies trigger conditions and what to do
when the trigger conditions occur, or do not occur within a specified
time. Generally, a procedure corresponds to an order handling strategy
used by a trader. A menu of standard procedures exist, and custom
procedures are accommodated after being qualified for use in the present
system. An interest represents an intent to trade. In contrast, an order
is a definite commitment to buy or sell a certain amount. Generally, an
institution or professional trader will know that they wish to trade when
conditions are right, but will not be quite ready to submit an order. The
institution or trader thus represents untapped market liquidity. By
representing such liquidity as interests, the liquidity can be more
efficient coupled to markets. Typically, a trader creates an interest by
selecting a procedure from a menu, then supplying parameters representing
what the trader wishes to trade and the conditions that will convert the
general interest to a specific order. The interest is sent to a procedure
processor. The procedure processor stores interests in an interest book,
stores procedures in a procedure book, and when the triggers for the
procedures specified in the interests occur, the procedure processor
executes the procedures to spawn orders or notifications to block trading
systems of willingness to negotiate. Thus, the liquidity represented by
the interests is injected into markets.