Perhaps a better explanation of SOAP is in order.
SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) is an XML based communication method between web applications. It is the communication method of many applications because it is platform, and protocol independent. SOAP allows you to structure data and organize it logically in a way that HTTP POST cannot, and it is extremely easy to use. It is also used to pass information past network firewalls without problems. Mostly for HTTP, it is used for web services or applications like as I mentioned Fedex Rate Services, or Google Search API. Most web sites will eventually want to include features that they cannot provide themselves, and using web services through SOAP can save a load of time. You can build SOAP communication from your site to Microsoft, or from a Java client you built.
Please everyone, vote. There is an option for everyone and all can benefit.