Patent ID: 8533115
Filing Date: 2013-09-10
Classification: G06Q

Abstract:
1. A method of arranging a program for a client by a central coordinating body (CCB), said method comprising: publishing, via a network, a list of services available for use in said program; entering into a first agreement, by the CCB, with a lead issuer, said first agreement obligating said CCB to make available said services to said lead issuer for use in said program; entering into a second agreement, by the CCB, with a local issuer, said second agreement obligating said local issuer to make available said services for use in said program, at pricing established independently by said local issuer; reviewing a bid document, using a computer, from said lead issuer that includes at least one service to be offered to said client for use in said program, wherein said first agreement between said lead issuer and said CCB includes a definition of a bid process that said lead issuer and said CCB agree to follow, the lead issuer bidding on services offered by the local issuer; and based on the review of the bid document, confirming, by the computer, to said lead issuer that said one service will be made available by said local issuer, wherein said local issuer provides said one service to said client in a local area, said method further comprising: facilitating, by the computer, a transfer of revenues from said program in said local area to said lead issuer; determining, by the computer, a fee for the provision of said one service to said client in said local area; and facilitating, by the computer, a transfer of the fee from said lead issuer to said local issuer, wherein said local issuer provides said one service to said client in said local area on behalf of said lead issuer, and wherein said lead issuer does not have the capability to provide said one service to said client in said local area, based on the first agreement between the lead issuer and the CCB.