Software, he predicted, would search the networks, locating information and collating it to help you make a buying decision, even haggling on your behalf with the seller's software.

ECONOMIST: In one form or another, electronic commerce is here to stay

Today geographic information systems leader Esri announced its acquisition of geo-locating platform Geoloqi, the 2010 FORBES Name You Need To Know company led by 26-year-old CEO Amber Case.

FORBES: Amber Case On Geoloqi Acquistion: 'Esri Is A Beautiful Match'