A technique for accessing an electronic commerce function (ECF) is
provided. A first signal identifying an entity and an ECF associated with
the entity is transmitted to a user from a contact list service. The user
selects the ECF, causing a second signal indicating the selection to be
transmitted to the contact list service. In response to receipt of the
second signal, the contact list service transmits a third signal. The
third signal identifies a network address associated with an electronic
commerce service provider for providing and/or facilitating the ECF. The
third signal also identifies information associated with the entity. The
third signal, either directly or indirectly, is operable to cause a
fourth signal to be transmitted to the user from the service provider.
The fourth signal includes information associated with invoking the ECF
and is based upon the information associated with the entity included in
the third signal.