Patent ID: 8285609
Filing Date: 2012-10-09
Classification: G06Q,Y02P

Abstract:
1. A method to outsource service and support operations, the method comprising: using a processor to maintain an inventory at an outsourced service and support partner (OSSP) without intervention by a separate manufacturing entity by ordering inventory items from a supplier separate from the manufacturing entity and the OSSP at a cost determined based on an amount of similar or substantially identical inventory items obtained separately by the manufacturing entity for manufacturing units, the OSSP being a first of a plurality of OSSPs; using the inventory to at least one of service a unit returned to the OSSP by a customer or ship an inventory item from the OSSP to the customer in response to receiving an order notification from the manufacturing entity at the OSSP; and using a processor to coordinate shipping of at least one of the units between the first OSSP and the customer or the inventory item from the first OSSP to the customer using a third party logistics provider at a shipping rate based on a total volume of expected shipments associated with the manufacturing entity across all of the plurality of OSSPs.