Patent ID: 7752146
Filing Date: 2010-07-06
Classification: G06Q,G07B,G07C

Abstract:
1. A method for integrating into a single service queue managed by a control computer order-fulfillment service-requests from customers to a provider of goods or services through multiple ordering channels, comprising: enabling customers to request service from the provider though a plurality of ordering channels; arranging the service-requests in a single service queue using at least one service-transaction terminal connected to said control computer based on the time at which each is placed regardless of the ordering channel used; providing at least one ticket dispenser which dispenses tickets and thus constitutes a first ordering channel whereby upon activation of the at least one ticket dispenser, a customer requests fulfillment service for an order to be placed by the customer to a service person and receives a ticket having the next number in the service queue, wherein each of said at least one ticket dispenser includes a printer and a manually-activated device which when activated, causes printing of a ticket by said printer with the next number in the service queue and enables access to the thus-printed ticket, wherein said printer and said manually-activated device independently communicate with said control computer.