A controlled vocabulary abstract hyperlink is a variety of hyperlink that is directed to a redirection facility when selected. The hyperlink redirection facility is a redirection facility for directing the controlled vocabulary abstract hyperlink in a modified format to a service provider. The controlled vocabulary abstract hyperlink may be embellished and encapsulated in a "controlled vocabulary abstract hyperlink." The hyperlink redirection facility makes a determination of which service provider to use to service the request associated with the controlled vocabulary abstract hyperlink by examining user preferences, if any. The controlled vocabulary abstract hyperlink is then passed onto a service provider, which translates the request into an appropriate format for a selected service provider that has been identified by the hyperlink redirection facility. The service provider processes the request and returns results to the user.