A network based computer implemented system for designing products is
disclosed. The system comprises a network server, such as an Internet web
server (30) operable to manage interaction of the system with external
computers, and a product design module (204) communicating with the
network server. The product design module (204) is operable to generate
product designs. The system further comprises a live agent support system
(44) communicating with the network server. The live agent support system
(44) is operable to provide live assistance to a customer of the system.
An agent (312) of the live agent support system (44) and a customer of
the system simultaneously view a same page of the design tool. The
customer and agent (312) also mutually communicate while collaboratively
manipulating the page.