Patent Document

PRIORITY AND COPYRIGHT CLAIMS  
       [0001]     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/187,389 filed Mar. 7, 2000, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
       [0002]     This application includes material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.  
       FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0003]     The present invention relates to the field of electronic inventory control. In particular, the present invention relates to controlling healthcare supply inventories.  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0004]     Traditionally, inventory control has been done by the company or organization using the items in the inventory. In smaller offices, inventory control is typically not a high priority, and orders may be placed whenever items are out of stock.  
         [0005]     As an office increases in size, inventory management becomes more of a challenge, and monitoring of frequently used or crucial items becomes very important. Typically a person is given the responsibility of monitoring inventory and ordering replacements as supply diminishes. As a company further increases in size, more advanced inventory management techniques may be used. For example, supply and usage trends may be analyzed to determine minimum quantities on hand, and seasonal or other peak usage may be determined.  
         [0006]     Some larger offices have switched to automated or semi-automated inventory tracking systems. These automated systems utilize barcode scanners or other electronic identifiers to track outgoing and incoming inventory, and can prepare purchase requests as supplies diminish.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0007]     The present invention improves upon the prior art by shifting the burden of inventory tracking onto a third party; this concept is referred to as vendor managed inventory, or VMI. When a third party provides VMI services for multiple companies, it gains significant buying power which it can use to negotiate better deals, improve supplier responsiveness, and streamline the buying process.  
         [0008]     The present invention allows third-parties to monitor company inventory via the Internet and World Wide Web (“web”). In addition, the present invention allows small to medium sized companies to take advantage of VMI by providing a cost-effective solution to their inventory tracking needs.  
         [0009]     The present invention utilizes web-enabled technologies to revolutionize inventory management by tracking inventory and automatically contacting suppliers, manufacturers, or distributors when additional supplies are needed. This may result in a labor reduction as compared to the labor-intensive inventory maintenance systems currently deployed.  
         [0010]     In addition to reducing labor costs, the present invention may help a company cut other costs. The present invention may help reduce delivery costs by regularly ordering supplies in anticipation of need, thus obviating the need for express shipments. The present invention may also allow third parties to take advantage of manufacturer or distributor specials when offered for the products its customers require, thus further reducing customer cost.  
         [0011]     While purchasing is a large part of inventory maintenance, the present invention may also facilitate other transactions as well. For example, the present invention may allow customers to resell products or equipment to other businesses, thereby maximizing utility. Although some in the prior art, such as Neoforma.com and Medibuy.com, have attempted to provide business-to-business equipment resale through web-based auctions, auctions do not provide equipment availability assurances. The present invention provides a forum through which resellers and customers may interact, where the present invention acts as a broker, thereby assuring both that purchased equipment is delivered, and that a seller receives proper compensation. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0012]      FIG. 1  is a block diagram illustrating the major hardware components of the present invention.  
         [0013]      FIG. 2  is a block diagram illustrating an overview of the software components of the present invention.  
         [0014]      FIG. 3  is a process flow diagram illustrating sample logic implemented when client software attempts to update data stored in a server.  
         [0015]      FIG. 4  is a process flow diagram illustrating sample logic implemented when client software polls a data connection.  
         [0016]      FIG. 5  illustrates a sample RFID portal and related computer equipment. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT  
       [0017]     The present invention implements an Internet-based, vendor managed inventory (‘VMI’) system. A VMI system allows a customer to reduce costs by pushing inventory management responsibilities onto a third party, or manager. Managers may service multiple companies, thus allowing them to negotiate better deals, improve supplier responsiveness, and serve as an effective customer advocate.  
         [0018]     The present invention allows managers to inexpensively monitor customer inventory via the Internet and World Wide Web (“web”). The present invention utilizes web-enabled technologies to revolutionize inventory management by tracking inventory and automatically contacting suppliers, manufacturers, or distributors when products are needed. This may result in a labor reduction as compared to the labor-intensive inventory maintenance systems currently deployed.  
         [0019]      FIG. 1  is a block diagram illustrating the major hardware components of the present invention. As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the present invention utilizes a client/server architecture to facilitate communication between customer inventory systems and managers. A client running on a Customer Inventory System  130  may be used to track inventory, place special orders, and interact with other customers.  
         [0020]     A client may include custom software, such as an application written in Visual Basic, JAVA, or C; commercial software, such as a web page accessible through a web browser; or a combination of custom and commercial software, such as a “plug-in” which operates in a web browser. Examples of common web browsers include Internet Explorer, developed by Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash., and Navigator, developed by Netscape Corporation of Mountain View, Calif.  
         [0021]     Customer Inventory Systems  130  may allow manual inventory tracking, semi-automated inventory tracking, or inventory may be dispensed using automated systems. By way of example, without intending to limit the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a handheld device, such as a Palm VII device by Palm Computing, Inc., to be outfitted with a barcode scanner. Such a device can allow barcodes or other identifiers associated with each inventory item to be scanned or otherwise entered into the system prior to or at the time of item distribution. As each item is scanned, a count maintained by the present invention may be adjusted to properly track inventory levels. Recipient-specific labels, including product warnings and other information, can then be printed for each scanned item.  
         [0022]     Other inventory distribution methods contemplated include, but are not limited to, interfacing the present invention with vending machines. Vending machines may allow accurate inventory tracking without requiring human interaction, except to periodically restock a particular supply or group of supplies. In a preferred embodiment, vending machines may include security measures to prevent unauthorized supply distribution. Such security measures may include, but are not limited to, the use of an identification card and personal identification number (“PIN”), and biometric systems. Vending machines equipped with security systems may restrict access to specific supplies on an individual-by-individual level, or group-by-group basis. Vending machines may also be equipped with label printers that allow warnings and other information to be attached to a dispensed item&#39;s packaging.  
         [0023]     Alternatively, supply closets or other storage areas can be outfitted with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFD) portal, as illustrated in  FIG. 5 . An RFID portal (Block  500 ) is similar in structure to airport security metal detectors, except that RFID portals can detect or scan RFID tags as such tags pass through a portal. The present invention can monitor RFID tag identifiers, including identifiers assigned to individuals, such that access to a storage area can be monitored, and items removed by an individual can be tracked without any direct user interaction.  
         [0024]     A preferred embodiment of the present invention can also track individual product dispensation, and may require additional information as products are dispensed. By way of example, without intending to limit the present invention, if a doctor dispenses sample medication to a patient, the present invention may also request a patient identifier, whereas if a package of gauze bandages was removed from inventory to restock an examination room, the present invention may not request a patient identifier. Patient identifiers can be used by the present invention to generate dispensation history reports for various products which may help suppliers and manufacturers to better understand income, race, ethnicity, or other demographic characteristics of typical recipients. The present invention may restrict such reports to only demographic information, and may not include individual-specific information in such reports.  
         [0025]     An alternative embodiment of the present invention allows physicians or others to carry a handheld device through which prescriptions can be written while talking with a patient. Such a handheld device can connect to a local inventory management system through a wireless or wired means, and, when appropriate, a prescribed item sample may be automatically dispensed by a vending machine. Alternatively, a message may be displayed at a nurse&#39;s station indicating the items to be pulled from inventory. When items are dispensed by a vending machine or pulled from inventory, inventory counts can be decremented as appropriate, and new orders can be placed as necessary.  
         [0026]     As inventory is distributed, Customer Inventory System  130  may track supply usage habits to determine minimum acceptable quantities on-hand. Usage information may be studied for various periods of time, and the present invention may create an inventory usage model based on collected data. As models are created and refined, the present invention may modify minimum in-stock thresholds to reflect anticipated usage. As quantity in-stock approaches a calculated or specified threshold, Customer Inventory System  130  may automatically request new supplies from Server  100 . Supply requests may include various information, including, but not limited to, urgency of request, customer willingness to accept alternative brands or sizes, billing information, and shipping information.  
         [0027]     As Server  100  receives supply requests, Server  100  may request price quotes from several Manufacturer, Supplier, or Distributor  120 &#39;s (“Distributor  120 ”). Distributor  120  may respond with quantity available, price, estimated delivery time, and other such information. Server  100  may then automatically evaluate each Distributor  120  response to find the best value given various factors associated with each customer request. When an appropriate Distributor  120  response is chosen, Server  100  may automatically arrange payment and shipping of requested supplies for Customer Inventory System  130 .  
         [0028]     Communication between Customer Inventory System  130 , Server  100 , and Distributor  120  may be achieved through various methods, including, but not limited to, hypertext transfer protocol (“HTTP”), file transfer protocol (“FTP”), simple mail transfer protocol (“SMTP”), or other such related methods.  
         [0029]     Although purchasing is a large part of inventory maintenance, a preferred embodiment of the present invention may also facilitate communication between customers, provide a source of information dissemination, and encourage customer interaction. The present invention may facilitate customer communication by allowing customers to resell products, equipment, or excess inventory to other businesses. The present invention may allow information dissemination by providing an up to date catalog of available equipment and other inventory from which a customer may order. The present invention may facilitate customer communication by allowing managers and customers to author and distribute articles describing new rules, regulations, procedures, revenue generation prospects, or other information of interest to other customers.  
         [0030]     Customer Inventory System  130  may serve as the primary source of customer interaction with the present invention. Articles, catalogs, inventory information, and other such information may be stored on Server  100 , and Customer Inventory System  130  may communicate with Server  100  to obtain requested information.  
         [0031]      FIG. 2  illustrates a preferred embodiment of Server  100 , in which relationships between data storage, web server, and application services provided by Server  100  are illustrated. All client communications may first pass through Firewall  210 . Firewall  210  represents a combination of software and hardware which is used to protect the data stored in Web Server  220 , Database Server  230 , and Application Server  240  from unauthorized access.  
         [0032]     As previously described, clients may communicate with the present invention through various protocols, including HTTP. Web Server  220  represents software capable of transmitting and receiving information via HTTP or other protocols. Examples of such software include Internet Information Server, developed by Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash.; Enterprise Server, developed by Netscape Corporation of Mountain View, Calif.; and Apache Server, developed by the Apache Software Foundation of Forest Hill, Md.  
         [0033]     When a client requests information, Web Server  220  may determine whether a client request requires pre-processing, in which case a request is transferred to Application Server  240 , or if a request simply requires data to fulfill the request, in which case Web Server  220  may communicate directly with Database Server  230 .  
         [0034]     Database Server  230  represents commercially available database software, such as Microsoft SQL Server, developed by Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash., Oracle 8i, developed by Oracle Corporation, of Redwood Shores, Calif., or other, similar software. Database Server  230  may store raw data, such as customer inventory information, customer addresses, vendor names, vendor product classes, and other such similar information. Such information may be transmitted to a client by Web Server  220 , or Application Server  240  may interpret information stored in Database Server  230  prior to transmission.  
         [0035]     Application Server  240  may contain business rules associated with the present invention, which can be used to interpret Database Server  230  data prior to transmission of that data to a client. In addition to interpreting information stored in Database Server  230  for client use, Application Server  240  may also monitor inventory levels reflected in Database Server  230 , contact vendors based on information from Database Server  230 , adjust inventory information as new inventory is received, and provide the services necessary to facilitate business-to-business resale of equipment or products stored in Database Server  230 .  
         [0036]     Web Server  220 , Database Server  230 , and Application Server  240  each represent software which may run on the same computer, or on multiple computers. In addition, Application Server  240  may be implemented within Database Server  230  as a set of business rules.  
         [0037]     An alternative description of the present invention follows, in which the present invention is described through a series of functional specifications. This information is included for enablement purposes, and describes the best mode contemplated at the time the present specification was filed. While the following functional specification describes a preferred embodiment of the present invention, descriptions within the functional specification should not be construed as limiting the present invention.  
         [0038]     To avoid confusion, the following terms are used in this functional specification:  
         [0039]     Customer—Refers to a buyer of products via the present invention. Customers can have “open account” relationships to avoid credit card and COD shipment problems.  
         [0040]     Linked Supplier—A distinction is made to avoid confusion with other vendors doing business with the present invention, given that payables may be in a common accounts payable system. Distributors, manufacturers, or other vendors (collectively “suppliers”), are distinguished by whether they are using the present invention&#39;s inventory tracking and accounting software, and therefore have live Internet linkages into their databases for queries, order processing, and billing.  
         [0041]     Manual Supplier—If a supplier provides goods or services through the present invention, but tracks inventory through a manual interface, such a supplier may be termed a “Manual Supplier”. Open account relationships may be maintained between Linked or Manual Suppliers avoid payment complexities.  
         [0042]     Non-linked Supplier—Suppliers not linked to the present invention.  
         [0043]     Products—Items for sale via the present invention.  
         [0044]     Customer Inventory—A list of products to be maintained at a given customer site.  
         [0045]     In addition to the general definitions set forth above, this functions specification also defines a set of system functions. System functions may fall into one of the following general sub-system categories:  
         [0046]     Interactive—human interface and related functions for tracking inventory counts, inventory consumption rates, ordering critical products, and the like. Interactive processes may be web-based or PC-based (client-server).  
         [0047]     Nightly Processes—periodic processes through which orders can be generated and invoicing and related processes can be performed, including interaction with Distribution system at distributor warehouses.  
         [0048]     Corporate—processes performed within corporate offices, but which update a database. Includes accounting, client data management, and other such processes.  
         [0049]     Distribution—Linked Suppliers integrated with the present invention. Industry standard Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software may be bundled with commercial financial software to provide a complete business system to Linked Suppliers.  
         [0050]     Database Design—A database schema which may be utilized in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0051]     The present invention in general, and this functional specification specifically, defines styles and functions included in detailed web pages and other user interface elements that are intended to be available system wide. Web pages, application windows, program screens, and transactions within the present invention should observe common rules. These rules include, but are not limited to: 
        No customer can view, inquiry into, update or in any way alter another customers data Transactions can use an IP address or other unique identifier as a cross-check against a customer ID coming in with transmitted pages to insure rule enforcement. For such security procedures, customer IP addresses or other unique identifiers may only be changed through a function accessible only to Corporate staff.     No Linked Supplier can see data belonging to another linked supplier.     System parameters controlling customer options can be set through an account setup and editing process. Such a process may be accessed by only someone with an authorized identifier. Initially, such identifiers may only be given to Corporate Staff.     Data changes will generally be reflected by a transaction log or transaction history, which may be accessible to customers or distributors, and to which Corporate Staff with appropriate security levels may have access.        
 
         [0056]     Functions involving data changes may be performed as server-side scripts, rather than through client-side logic. In general, such server-side scripts can utilize a logical flow similar to  FIG. 3 . As  FIG. 3  illustrates, client software running on a customer machine may generate a page containing data to be updated by a web server and transmit said page to said web server (Block  300 ).  
         [0057]     When a web server receives a page from a customer machine, the present invention may attempt to process any changes requested by said page. If such changes are successful (Block  320 ), the present invention may return a confirmation page or cause a confirmation message to be displayed to a customer machine, and appropriate transaction logging may occur.  
         [0058]     If changes are not successful, the present invention may increment a retry count by one (Block  340 ). If the retry count is less than or equal to three, the present invention may retransmit customer changes (Block  370 ) to Block  310  in an effort to make any appropriate changes. If the retry count exceeds three (Block  350 ), the present invention may cause a page containing any error codes or other feedback information to be displayed on a client machine. Such a page may also contain original client data changes as well as a means for resubmitting said changes (Block  360 ).  
         [0059]     Client software may also periodically verify that a data connection exists between said client software and a server acting as part of the present invention. Such software may follow the logic illustrated in  FIG. 4  to achieve accurate data connection monitoring. As Block  400  illustrates, client software may send one or more TCP/IP Ping commands or other network test commands to verify that a high-speed connection is still available to a server acting as part of the present invention.  
         [0060]     If a high-speed network connection is detected, the present invention can continue normal operations (Block  410 ). If a high-speed network connection is not detected, the present invention may attempt to reestablish such a connection (Block  420 ). If a high-speed network connection can be reestablished (Block  430 ), the present invention may continue normal operations (Block  410 ). If a high-speed network connection cannot be established, a lower speed network connection, such as a dial-up network connection, may be established by the present invention (Block  440 ). If a lower speed network connection can be established, the present invention may continue normal operations, including periodically attempting to reestablish a high-speed network connection (Block  410 ).  
         [0061]     If a lower speed network connection cannot be established, client software may display an application or page with alternative user interface and alternative functionality (Block  460 ). Such alternative functionality can include local storage of product usage information, local inventory tracking, and limited reordering via a dial-up or other temporary connection with a known supplier (Block  470 ). A client functioning without a data connection may periodically attempt to reestablish high or low speed network connections (Block  480 ). When a connection is reestablished (Block  490 ), a client may transmit product usage scan information to a server acting as part of the present invention.  
         [0062]     In addition to an inventory tracking application, the present invention may also utilize a high speed network connection to transmit new product offerings or special promotions to a client for display to a customer. As new products are entered into a Products table or similar data structure, the present invention may cause such a product to appear on a client. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention may allow customers to select products in which a customer is interested, and the present invention may only display new products or special deals meeting a customer&#39;s prior specifications. Such specifications can include, but are not limited to, categories by manufacturer, product trade name, specific product type, general product classification, and quantity available or quantity per shipping unit.  
         [0063]     A client displaying such information may allow a customer to indicate an interest in a product by typing a command, clicking a button or other graphical interface element, or otherwise interacting with said client. If a customer expresses an interest in a featured product, a client may allow a customer to create a one-time order, or to configure recurring orders.  
         [0064]     In addition to allowing customers to record product usage and order new inventory or new products, client software may also display advertisements on a rotating basis, and may be used for other purposes. A typical client software screen may also contain additional information and fields, including, but not limited to, a Product SKU field, a User-ID field, a Doctor-ID field, and a Sales Consultant Contact field.  
         [0065]     When customers are not directly interacting with client software, client software may place a cursor in a Product SKU field by default. Placing a cursor in a Product SKU field can allow client software to ready accept an automatically or manually entered product identifier, such as a barcode label scanned via a wedge-style bar-code scanner.  
         [0066]     As product identifiers are entered, client software may request a User-ID for each product identifier or set of product identifiers. A User-ID is a unique identifier created for each employee or set of employees within an organization. Such identifiers may be entered manually through an active user interface, such as, but not limited to, a keyboard, touch screen, or number pad, or through a passive user interface, such as, but not limited to, biometric recognition equipment, barcode identifiers worn by or associated with an employee, or through RFID tags worn by or associated with an employee. User-ID&#39;s may be combined with passwords to create a more secure inventory tracking system.  
         [0067]     User-ID&#39;s may be used to track persons removing items from an inventory, but additional tracking or other controls may also be desirable. For example additional authorization may be required when employees remove expensive items or controlled substances from an inventory. The present invention may recognize when such an inventory item is removed, and client software may request an additional identifier, called a Doctor-ID, as authorization. Client software may even allow any user to enter a Doctor-ID for some inventory items, while for other inventory items a Doctor-ID and related password may be required. A biometric or other positive identifier may be used in place of a Doctor-ID or Doctor-ID and password in some applications.  
         [0068]     When appropriate inventory tracking data has been entered into client software, the present invention may transmit such data to a server. A server may send a confirmation message to a client upon receipt of such data. If a confirmation message is not received within a predetermined period of time, the present invention may resend inventory tracking data. If successive resend attempts are unsuccessful, the present invention may follow a process similar to that illustrated by  FIG. 3 . Client software may allow additional inventory scans to occur while waiting for confirmation from a server.  
         [0069]     In addition to recording inventory tracking information, client software may also allow a customer to access various options. Such options may include, but are not limited to, an administrative page, an inventory status inquiry page, and an inventory receipt page. An administrative page can allow authorized customers to create, edit, or remove User-ID&#39;s, Doctor-ID&#39;s, groups of such accounts, and account-specific information. An inventory status inquiry page can retrieve and display a page containing customer inventory records, order status, and other such information.  
         [0070]     An inventory status inquiry may be initiated through client software, which can send a page containing customer-specific information, as well as site-specific identification information stored on a client machine. In a preferred embodiment, a server receiving such a request may select records with appropriate site- and user-specific information from a table of customer inventory records. A server may generate a page or screen containing customer inventory information, including information from several tables. Table 1 below provides an example of columns displayed on a typical inventory request screen, as well as sample table and field names from which such data can be drawn.  
                       TABLE 1                       Column Heading   Source Table   Source Field                   Description   PRODUCTS   DESCRIPTION       Product   CUSTOMER_INVENTORY   PRODUCT       Quantity In Stock   CUSTOMER_INVENTORY   ON_HAND_QTY       Order Point   CUSTOMER_INVENTORY   ROP       ReOrder Quantity   CUSTOMER_INVENTORY   ROQ       Activity Status   CUSTOMER_INVENTORY   STATUS                  
 
         [0071]     An advantage of the present invention over the prior art is the ability to simplify adding new items or restocking items into an inventory. Linked Suppliers shipping goods to a customer can provide a specially coded packing list, and a customer can automatically or manually enter such a code into client software. Client software can validate a packing list number as belonging to a customer and ensure a packing list is not credited to a customer system more than once. Entry of an invalid or previously validated packing slip can cause client software to display an error message.  
         [0072]     If a valid packing slip is entered, client software may retrieve shipment contents from a centralized database or from a supplier database, and automatically update customer inventory information to reflect inventory received. Client software may then display a message confirming successful inventory changes, and return a customer to a main page.  
         [0073]     A product search page may also be accessible through client software. A product search page can allow a user to select a search type and, if appropriate, search parameters and search parameter values (collectively “search criteria”). By way of example, without intending to limit the present invention, a product search page may allow a customer to search by specific manufacturer and products of a certain classification.  
         [0074]     When a customer has selected appropriate search criteria, client software may pass such search criteria to a server. A server may query a database of products and product descriptions and return products matching or approximating customer search criteria.  
         [0075]     If a user has selected a descriptive search, a server may select records from a Products table, or other similar table, whose data matches or approximates descriptive text entered by a user. If a user has selected a parameter search, a server may select Product table records whose fields match or approximate user search requests. To expedite such selections, a server may index descriptions, manufacturers, product classes, product names, and other frequently searched fields.  
         [0076]     When appropriate records are selected, a server may transmit such records to client software for display. Client software may present such records in a variety of formats, including, but not limited to, a columnar or tabular format. Table 2 lists sample column names, sample source table names, source field names, and additional functionality client software may present when displaying such records.  
                       TABLE 2                       Column               Heading   Source Table   Source Field                   De-   PRODUCTS   SHORT_DESCRIPTION       scription       Product   PRODUCTS   PRODUCT_ID       ID       Manu-   PRODUCTS   MANUFACTURER       facturer       Mfg Item   PRODUCTS   MANUFACTURER_ITEM_NUMBER       No.       Prod.   PRODUCTS   PRODUCT_TYPE       Type       Prod.   PRODUCTIONS   PRODUCT_CLASS       Class       Check   None   Window action field       Availa-       bility       Add to   None   Window action field       Stock Plan                  
 
         [0077]     As Table 2 indicates, client software can allow a customer to check product availability and add products to a stock plan. In a preferred embodiment, client software may make such functionality available for each record displayed. In an alternative embodiment, records may have check boxes or other selection controls, thereby allowing customers to check the availability of multiple items, and add multiple items to a stock plan.  
         [0078]     When a customer checks availability of a product or products, the present invention may search Linked Supplier inventories to determine quantities available, physical location, anticipated delivery times, and the like. When inventory is available, client software may allow a customer to order a product.  
         [0079]     When a customer chooses to add a product to an inventory or stocking plan, client software may request restocking and other parameters from a customer, then send appropriate information to a server. A server may add an appropriate entry to a Customer_Inventory or other similar table, thereby enabling inventory tracking through the present invention.  
         [0080]     Client software can also allow a customer to request a telephone call, an E-mail, or other contact from a sales consultant. In a preferred embodiment, a customer may select a product or supplier, and client software can query a server to determine an appropriate sales consultant for the selected product or supplier. A user can then be presented with a dialog box or other interactive interface which asks a customer to confirm a contact request. Once a contact request has been confirmed, client software may cause a server to store a request message in a Contact_Log table or other similar table.  
         [0081]     In a preferred embodiment, a server may periodically scan Contact_Log table entries. When new or unanswered requests are found, a server may send a notification to a supplier alerting said supplier of such a request, where such a notification can include a customer E-mail address, telephone number, fax number, or other contact information, as well as other relevant customer and product information.  
         [0082]     While the present invention can monitor inventory use and automatically order new inventory when necessary, a customer may anticipate a need for additional inventory based on parameters outside the scope of the present invention. By way of example, without intending to limit the present invention, if the present invention is used in a hospital, and the Olympics was held in or near the city in which the hospital is located, a hospital administrator may foresee the need to order additional quantities of frequently used supplies. Client software can provide a customer with the ability to quickly place such orders.  
         [0083]     Customers can initiate such an order by clicking a button or otherwise interacting with a graphical or physical interface. In a preferred embodiment, a customer may select from products or groups of products already included in an inventory or stocking plan, or a customer may search for products through an interface similar to that described earlier. As previously described, customers can designate standard restocking quantities, and client software may use such quantities as defaults when clients are requesting additional inventory. Client software may also present quantities on hand to help customers make smarter purchasing decisions. Based on such information, customers can modify order quantities before submitting an order.  
         [0084]     Client software can transmit customer orders to a server. Upon receipt of a customer order, a server can initiate an order fulfillment process.  
         [0085]     A server may also automatically place an order based on customer demand. A server may periodically scan a customer inventory table and monitor inventory usage. As inventory is depleted, a server can predict frequently used items, and order appropriate quantities. Initially, a server may order limited quantities, to limit customer costs. A server may increase order quantities for frequently ordered products as customer usage habits dictate. A server may also construct an historical usage characterization, so that seasonal or other periodic usage patterns can be automatically taken into account.  
         [0086]     As orders are placed, a server can query Linked Supplier inventories to determine each supplier&#39;s ability to fulfill an order. A server can calculate shipping costs as each order is processed, and a server can select one or more suppliers who can most cost effectively meet customer needs. As qualified suppliers are identified, orders are placed which can include expedited delivery and other options as specified by a customer or as determined by a server.  
         [0087]     A server can also post supplier invoices to an accounts payable system, generate customer invoices based on supplier invoices, post customer invoices to an accounts receivable system. A server may further integrate with an automated payment system, thereby limiting invoicing and other such expenses.  
         [0088]     In addition to customer and order related functions, a server can also provide administrative functions. By way of example, without intending to limit the present invention, a user who is not a customer can register to be a customer through a server-provided interface. Such an interface may allow a user to specify a business name, business type, executive director or general manager, physical address, mailing address, shipping address, one or more telephone numbers, employee names, employee licensing and accreditation information, and the like.  
         [0089]     As users submit such information, a server may validate that an address, telephone number, and zip code are all valid with respect to each other, and that all necessary fields have been filled. If any validations fail, a server may present a data entry page along with any invalid data, thus simplifying data correction.  
         [0090]     A server and client software may also allow customers and suppliers to change various information. By way of example, without intending to limit the present invention, suppliers can change pricing; add or remove vendors and products; add, edit, or remove contacts; view account status and open invoices; and perform other such functions. Customers can adjust inventory counts to reflect audit results; add, edit, or remove employees and employee information; update payment and contact information; view account balances and make payments; and perform other such functions.  
         [0091]     Linked Suppliers can also take advantage of many of these same features. Linked Suppliers implementing the present invention can track inventory; provide real-time inventory information to prospective customers; accept electronic orders; generate pick/pack lists; track order fulfillment process, including tracking into which containers each item in an order has been placed; generate bar-coded packing lists and shipping labels for each container; and generate invoices.  
         [0092]     The present invention also provides Linked Suppliers with other advantages over the prior art. By way of example, without intending to limit the present invention, Linked Supplier inventory needs can be forecast based on prior order history, prior lead times, safety stock quantities, and the like, thereby reducing overall inventory investment. The present invention can also allow enable a Linked Supplier to track processing and shipping status for various products within an order, thereby providing a higher level of customer service. The present invention may also allow managers or other authorized individuals to electronically sign a purchase order, invoice, or other billing or order document and electronically transmit such a document to an appropriate recipient.  
         [0093]     To achieve the functionality set forth above, a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes the following table structure. The table structure described below is included for enablement and best mode purposes, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.  
         [0094]     Table Name— 
         [0095]     CLIENT_CONTROL  
         [0096]     Table Description and function—This table can reside locally on a customer computer. It can store one or more records containing control data needed to manage on and off-line functions remotely. These records can be updated via an update applet transferring data from the Web Server&#39;s SQL database to this control. Its purpose is to provide control over the processes running on the local machine even if it is off-line, and to enable it to reconnect automatically.  
                                         Table name - CLIENT_ERROR_LOG            Column (field) Name   Description               CUSTOMER_ID   Customer ID - matches Customer ID in           CUSTOMERS data in the Web Server SQL Database       IP_ADDRESS   This is the IP address for this machine       DSL_PORT   Connection path or port (e.g., COM2) where DSL           connection exists; null if there is no DSL line for this           machine       DIAL_PORT   Connection path ro port (e.g., COM3) where dial-up           connection exists; null if there is no dial-up connection           for this machine       DIAL_CONNECTION_PHONE   Phone number the software dials to establish a dial-up           connection to the Web server system. Null if there is           no dial-up connection       DIAL_CALL_BACK   Phone number of the dial-up line; to allow call-back           from the web server.                  
 
         [0097]     Table Description and function—This table contains an error generation history for processes originating on a customer machine. It can provide an audit trail and view of how well processes are functioning, and a place to record both fatal-error conditions and those that may not need to be displayed to customers. Its data may not be processed, but can be stored for review by system administrators and managers.  
                                             Table Name - SYSTEM_ERROR_LOG            Column (field)       Field Characteristics       Name   Description   &amp; Indexing               ERROR_DATE   Date of error log entry   Index -               concatenated with               ERROR_TIME       ERROR_TIME   Time of error log entry   Index - with               ERROR_DATE       CALLER   Program name generating           the error log entry       ERROR_MESSAGE   Error message generated by           the caller program       USER_VIEWABLE   Yes - if message also           displayed on user seen           page; No if internal only           message       DATA_DUMP   Data (if any) causing the           error                  
 
         [0098]     Table Description and function—This table can contain a history of errors generated by processes originating from outside a customer machine. The table can provide an audit trail and view of how well processes are functioning, and provide a place to record both fatal and non-fatal errors. Such data can allow system administrators, programmers, and managers to monitor automated, unattended processes. SYSTEM_ERROR_LOG can use a data dictionary/field structure similar to a Client_Error_Log table.  
                                             Table Name -SYS_PARAMETERS            Column (field)       Field Characteristics &amp;       Name   Description   Indexing               ERROR_DATE   Date of error log entry   Index - concatenated               with ERROR_TIME       ERROR_TIME   Time of error log entry   Index - with               ERROR_DATE       CALLER   Program name generating           the error log entry       ERROR_MESSAGE   Error message generated           by the caller program       USER_VIEWABLE   Yes - if message also           displayed on user seen           page; No if internal only           message       DATA_DUMP   Data (if any) causing the           error                  
 
         [0099]     Table Description and function—Stores system-wide parameters in a common table.  
                                             Table Name - CUSTOMER_APPLICATION            Column (field)               Name   Description   Field Characteristics &amp; Indexing               PARAM_ID   Identifies parameter   Primary Index       VAR1   First variable       VAR2   Second variable       VAR3   Third variable                  
 
         [0100]     Table Description and function—this table can have a data dictionary similar to the CUSTOMERS table, and can be used to temporarily store unapproved, unprocessed customer application data submitted by a Customer/Client Application page. When an application is processed, appropriate records can be deleted from this table.  
                                                   Table Name - MEMBERS_APPLICATION            Column (field)               Name   Description   Field Characteristics &amp; Indexing                    See CUSTOMERS                  
 
         [0101]     Table Description and function—this table has may use a data dictionary similar to PRACTICE_MEMBERS, and can temporarily store unapproved, unprocessed customer application data submitted by a Customer/Client Application page. When an application is processed, appropriate records can be deleted from this table.  
                                             Table Name - CUSTOMERS                    Field       Column (field) Name   Description   Characteristics &amp; Indexing               See               PRACTICE_MEMBERS                  
 
         [0102]     Table Description and function—Can store a unique identifier for each customer in a permanent table. Activity logged in CUSTOMER_MAINT_HISTORY table. Can be linked to third-party applications for credit terms, bill to, ship to addresses, phones and other financial data.  
                                                 Table Name - PRACTICE_MEMBERS                        Field                   Characteristics       Column (field) Name   Description   Comment   &amp; Indexing               CUSTOMER   Identifies   Unique identifier   Primary Index           customer   (account number);               matches               CUSTOMER in A/R               system       NAME   Practice Business   See Practice   Index           Name   Members for doctor               data.       SALES_CONSULTANT   Identifies sales       Index           consultant           assigned to           account       IPADDRESS1   Internet address   Can have multiple           used to link,   computers in larger           identify   offices.           computers in           customers office       IPADDRESS2   Internet address   Can have multiple           used to link,   computers in larger           identify   offices.           computers in           customers office       IPADDRESS3   Internet address   Can have multiple           used to link,   computers in larger           identify   offices.           computers in           customers office       IPADDRESS4   Internet address   Can have multiple           used to link,   computers in larger           identify   offices.           computers in           customers office       DISCOUNT_CODE   Identifies which   Code must be in   Index           discount code is   DISCOUNT_CODES           used to calculate   table.           prices charged for           this customer       PHYSICAL_ADDRESS   Street address of           practice       PHYSICAL_STATE   State in which the           practice is located       PHYSICAL_ZIP   Zip code of           physical location           of practice       SHIP_TO_ADDRESS   Address to which           shipments go       SHIP_TO_STATE   State for ship to           address       SHIP_TO_ZIP   Zip code for ship           to address       MAIL_ADDRESS   Mailing address   Literature, documents           (for other than   only (may be a PO           shipments)   Box to which UPS &amp;               FedEx cannot ship)       MAIL_STATE   Mail address state       MAIL_ZIP   Zip code for mail           address       ADMINISTRATOR   Administrator,           manager, etc. of           Customer                  
 
         [0103]     Table Description and function—This table can be linked to records in a CUSTOMERS table, and can store data pertaining to individual physicians or other health-care professionals working at or with a practice.  
                                                 Table Name - DISCOUNT_CODES                        Field                   Characteristics       Column (field) Name   Description   Comment   &amp; Indexing               CUSTOMER   Customer to   Must be in   Index -            whom the   CUSTOMERS table   concatenated           Practice Member   already   with           is associated       MEMBER_NAME       MEMBER_NAME   Name of health-   Together with   With           care professional   CUSTOMER, forms   CUSTOMER           or physician   unique record key           linked to           CUSTOMER       MEMBER_TITLE   Title (e.g., Exec.           Director) of           member       MEMBER_MAIL_ADDRESS   Separate mailing           address for           member       MEMBER_MAIL_STATE   Member mail           address state       MEMBER_MAIL_ZIP   Member mail           address zip       MEMBER_LICENSE_NO   Professional           license for           member       MEMBER_LICENSE_EXPIRE   Expiration Date           of member&#39;s           professional           license       MEMBER_DEGREE1   First degree of           member       MEMBER_DEGREE2   Second degree of           member       MEMBER_DEGREE3   Third degree of           member       MEMBER_DEGREE4   Fourth degree of           member       MEMBER_NOTES   Text/comment           field       DATE_NEW   Date this member           was added to           table       DATE_LAST   Last activity date                  
 
         [0104]     Table Description and function—can contain decimal values representing a unique price to be charged or discount to be granted to each customer. Any number of customers may use a discount code. When a decimal value associated with a given code is changed, the result is that all prices for all customers using that code are changed. If a customer&#39;s discount code specifies a discount value greater than allowed for a given product, the present invention may limit a price to the maximum discount.  
                                                 Table Name - CUSTOMER_INVENTORY                        Field                   Charac-                   teris-       Column (field)           tics &amp;       Name   Description   Comment   Indexing               DISC_CODE   Discount code   Identifies specific   Primary               discount; numbering   Index               should be 10, 20,               30, etc. to allow for               insertions in future,               e.g, 14       DISC_VALUE   Decimal value for           the discount to be           given.       NOTES   Notes; text field for           commentary about a           particular discount           code                  
 
         [0105]     Table Description and function—stores inventory at customer office. One record for each customer/SKU combination, including all that have been used in past, or which are to be used for next ordering cycle. Permanent table. Activity logged in CUSTOMER_INVENTORY_TX table.  
                                                 Table Name - PRODUCTS                        Field       Column (field)           Characteristics       Name   Description   Comment   &amp; Indexing               CUSTOMER   Identifies customer       Index -                   concatenated                   with PRODUCT       PRODUCT   Identifies product at       Indexed with           customer&#39;s site       CUSTOMER       ON_HAND_QTY   Quantity of an item           on hand at this           customer       ROP   Reorder point   When on_hand_qty           quantity   falls to or below this               quantity, a new               order is triggered for               the product.       ROQ   Quantity to be   Ordering process           ordered   uses this quantity               when a product is               “triggered”       STATUS   Activity status of   Values:   Index           item   Active (default,               normal setting)               NoOrder (continue               to use up inventory,               but no more orders)               NoUse (do not               accept scanned               usage of product)                  
 
         [0106]     Table Description and function—identifies products available for sale at any point in time. Includes products no longer active. One record for each product/SKU/Item Number.  
                                                 Table Name - MANUFACTURERS                        Field Characteristics       Column (field) Name   Description   Comment   &amp; Indexing               PRODUCT_ID   Identifies       Primary Index           product; SKU;           also is“item           number”       SHORT_DESCRIPTION   Short description       Index           appearing on           most printed           outputs &amp;           screens       LONG_DESCRIPION   Long description       Index, built so each           for additional       word is indexed           description       separately.       MANUFACTURER   Company       Index           making product;           Must be in           MANUFACTURERS           table       MANUFACTURER_ITEM_NUMBER   Manufacturer&#39;s       Index           product identifier       STATUS   Item status   Values:               Active (default,               normal usage)               NoOrder (accept               usage scans, no               orders)               NoUse (do not               accept usage scans;               no activity; obsolete               or discontinued)       PRODUCT_CLASS   Marketing/sales       Index           classification of           product       PRODUCT_GROUP   Commodity       Index           classification of           product       PRODUCT_LINE   Financial       Index           reporting           classification of           product       SELL_START_DATE   Date that new   Prior to this date           orders for this   orders will not be           product can be   processed (new           processed   product so not               available yet)       SELL_END_DATE   Date after which   After or on this date,           new orders for   orders will not be           this product   processed           cannot be   (discontinued           processed   product)       PRODUCT_PICTURE   Product Picture   JPEG or GIF           bit map image                  
 
         [0107]     Table Description and function—This table stores all manufacturers whose products may be carried in the PRODUCTS table. It serves as a reference and validation table for products.  
                                                 Table Name - ORDERS                        Field                   Charac-                   teris-       Column (field)       Com-   tics &amp;       Name   Description   ment   Indexing               MANUFACTURER_ID   Short abbreviation       Primary           for manufacturer       Index       MANUFACTURER_NAME   Normal business       Indexed           name for           manufacturer       DATE_ADDED   Date this           Manufacturer was           added to the table                  
 
         [0108]     Table Description and function—stores orders generated by nightly process and/or by critical ordering process, which are then downloaded to distributor. Serves as order “header” record. Linked to ORDER_DETAIL table where line items are stored. No maintenance history log table. One record for each order generated and downloaded.  
                                                 Table Name - ORDER_DETAIL            Column (field)           Field Characteristics       Name   Description   Comment   &amp; Indexing               ORDER_NO   Order Number,   Generated by   Primary Index           unique identifier for   ordering processes;           the order   increments               SYSTEM_PARAMTER               for order               number       ORDER_DATE   Date order       Index           generated       ORDER_TIME   Time order           generated       ORDER_SOURCE   How order was   Sources are:           generated   AUTO - nightly               process               MANUAL -               manual order               entered on terminal               in customer&#39;s office.       CUSTOMER   Customer on the       Index           order       LINKED_SUPPLIER   Linked Supplier to       Index           whom the order was           downloaded       ORDER_STATUS   Status of the order;   Values:   Index           shows latest status   GEN - generated           only, sequence is   PLACED -           presumed   downloaded to               supplier               S_BILLED -               supplier has               invoiced Med-e-               Track               C_BILLED -               system has               converted supplier               invoice to customer               invoices       STATUS_DATE   Date which status           changed       SHIP_TO_ADDRESS   Address to which           orders is to be           shipped; appears on           downloaded order           data       ORDER_PRODUCT_TOTAL   Total value of order           for product only; not           including tax,           shipping, other           charges                  
 
         [0109]     Table Description and function—stores line item detail on ORDERS. One record for each line item on an order.  
                                                 Table Name - LINKED_SUPPLIER                        Field                   Characteristics &amp;       Column (field) Name   Description   Comment   Indexing               ORDER_DTL_ORDER_NO   Order number to       Index -           which this detail       concatenated with           record belongs       ORDER_LINE_NUMBER       ORDER_LINE_NUMBER   Line number for   With           order.   Order_Dtl_Order_no,               forms               a unique               identifier       PRODUCT   Product identifier       Index           for item ordered       ORDER_QUANTITY   Quantity of the           product that is           being ordered.       SHIP_QUANTITY   Quantity of the           item shipped; as           reflected on an           uploaded,           processed           supplier           invoice/packlist       CUSTOMER_UNIT_PRICE   Price to be           charged to           customer       CUSTOMER_UNI_SALES_TAX   Sales tax, if any           to be charged           customer       PRODUCT_ORDERED_SUBTOTAL   Value = Order_Quantity *           Customer_Unit_price       PRODUCT_SHIP_SUBTOTAL   Value = Ship_Quantity *           Customer Unit_Price       LINKED_SUPPLIER_UNIT_COST   Price to be paid           Linked Supplier           for this item       LINKED_SUPPLIER_PRODUCT_SHIP_SUBTOTAL   Value = Ship_Quantity *           Linked_Supplier_Unit_cost                  
 
         [0110]     Table Description and function—Stores and sets up each linked supplier, i.e., distributor that is linked into the web site. One record for each supplier that will be, is now, or has been linked at one time into Med-e-Track. Activity logged in LINKED_SUPPLIER MAINT_HISTORY. Account is linked to Supplier table in the SOLOMAN Accounts Payable subsystem.  
                                             Table Name - SUPPLIER_INVOICE            Column (field) Name   Description   Comment               SUPPLIER   Supplier&#39;s ID   Unique       SUPPLIER_IP_ADDRESS   IP Address where linking   identifier           process occurs       OPEN_DATE   Date the relationship was           setup/started                  
 
         [0111]     Table Description and function—stores uploaded invoice/pack lists from linked suppliers. Serves as “header” record for invoices. A given Order can have multiple invoices. Linked to SUPPLIER_INVOICE_DETAIL records which carry line item detail. Invoices uploaded from distributor reflect orders they have shipped and are then used to generate Customer invoices. The uploaded invoice data is also transferred to the Accounts Payable module of the Solomon IV software for corporate accounting/tracking. Customer invoices generated and recorded in this table are also transferred to the Accounts Receivable module.  
                                                 Table Name - INTERNAL_INVOICE_SHIP_DETAIL            Column (field)           Field Characteristics       Name   Description   Comment   &amp; Indexing               INTERNAL_INVOICE_ID   Internal, system   Insures unique               generated invoice   invoice           identifier   identification in               case of similar               supplier invoicing               schemes/numbers       ORDER   Order number           which the invoice is           a shipment/bill for.       SUPPLIER_INVOICE   Invoice identifier   Uploaded invoice           from supplier   data       SUPPLIER_INVOICE_DATE   Date of/on supplier           invoice that was           uploaded       SUPPLIER_INVOICE_TIME   Time that supplier   Invoice time may           invoice was   not appear in           uploaded   supplier database.       AP_DATE   Date supplier           invoice data posted           to AP tables       AP_TIME   Time supplier           invoice data was           posted to AP tables       CUSTOMER_INVOICE   Invoice ID   Presence indicates           generated by nightly   that nightly process           process to bill   has run, generating           customer for   this separate invoice           shipment   number.       CUSTOMER_INVOICE_DATE   Date customer           invoice generated           by nightly process       CUSTOMER_INVOICE_TIME   Time of customer           invoice generation           process.       AR_DATE   Time       SHIPMENT   Shipment document   May be separate ID   Index on this field           number   from invoice no.   for packing slip data                   retrieval.       SHIP_VIA   Shipping method;           e.g., UPS Ground                  
 
         [0112]     Table Description and function—This table contains shipment information for the shipment covered by the Internal Invoice. There is one record for each carton comprising the shipment covered by the Invoice. It is linked to the Internal_Invoice table.  
                                             Table Name - SUPPLIER_INVOICE_DETAIL                Column (field) Name   Comment                       INTERNAL_INVOICE_ID               SHIP_CARTON_ID   Together with invoice id,               comprises unique record ID           TRACKER_NO                      
 
         [0113]     Table Description and function—this table carries the line item level detail for invoices uploaded from the linked supplier/distributor. Some line item level detail is used to update Order data to support quick order status inquiries and track back-ordered items.  
                                             Table Name - SUPPLIER_COST            Column (field) Name   Description   Comment               INTERNAL_INVOICE_ID   Identifier for internal               invoice no       INTERNAL_INVOICE_LINE_NUMBER   Line number for internal   Together with Internal           invoice   Invoice identifier, forms               unique key       SHIPPED_PRODUCT   Product shipped       SHIP_QUANTITY   Quantity shipped       UNIT_PRICE   Supplier&#39;s Unit price       UNIT_TAX   Sales Tax (if any)       EXTENDED_PRICE   Value = Ship_qty * Unit_Price   Product only subtotal       LINE_TAX_TOTAL   Value = Ship_Qty * Unit_Tax       LINE_TOTAL_AMOUNT   EXTENDED_PRICE + Line_Tax_total                  
 
         [0114]     Table Description and function—Stores prices to be paid to each Linked Supplier in the system. One record for each linked supplier and SKU. Permanent table. Activity logged in SUPPLIER_COST_MAINT_HISTORY table.  
                                                           Table Name - SUPPLIER_COST_MAINT_HISTORY                            Field           Column (field)           Characteristics           Name   Description   Comment   &amp; Indexing                                                           
 
         [0115]     Table Description and function—records changes made to SUPPLIER_COST records. One record for each field changed during an update of a given record.  
                                                           Table Name - PRODUCT_MAINT_HISTORY                            Field           Column (field)           Characteristics           Name   Description   Comment   &amp; Indexing                                                           
 
         [0116]     Table Description and function—records changes made to PRODUCTS table. One record for each field changed during an update of a given record.  
                                                           Table Name - PRODUCT_CLASS                            Field           Column (field)           Characteristics           Name   Description   Comment   &amp; Indexing                                                           
 
         [0117]     Table Description and function—Identifies valid product classes; serves as a reference table.  
                                         Table Name - PRODUCT_GROUP            Column (field) Name   Description               PROD_CLASS_CODE   Code for product class description       DESCRIPTION   Text/descriptive name for product_class code                  
 
         [0118]     Table Description and function—Identifies valid product groups; serves as a reference table.  
                                         Table Name - PRODUCT_LINE            Column (field) Name   Description               PRODUCT_GROUP_CODE   Code for product group description       DESCRIPTION   Text/descriptive name for Product Group           Code.                  
 
         [0119]     Table Description and function—Identifies valid product lines; serves as a reference table.  
                                         Table Name - CUSTOMER_INVENTORY_TRANSACTIONS            Column (field) Name   Description               PRODUCT_LINE_CODE   Code for product line description       DESCRIPION   Text/descriptive name for product line code                  
 
         [0120]     Table Description and function—transaction history table for activity altering data in Customer_Inventory table; one record for each change recorded; main use will be recording inventory activity, although transactions will be generated for changes to status, ROP, ROQ and Notes values, i.e., non-on-hand quantity values. Each transaction affects only one data field. Transaction code indicates what update/change activity was performed, and therefore which data field was updated.  
                                             Table Name - CONTACT_LOG            Column (field)               Name   Description   Comment               TRAN_NO   Unique identifier for each   Functions like a           transaction; non significant   check number.       TRAN_DATE   Date transaction processed       TRAN_TIME   Time transaction processed       TRAN_ID   Code identifying transaction   Values:               TBD       PRODUCT   Product identifier of item           affected       QTY       CUSTOMER   Customer whose inventory data           was updated/changed       USER_ID   User performing transaction       BEFORE_VALUE   Value of data field prior to           update action       AFTER_VALUE   Value of data field after update           action                  
 
         [0121]     Table Description and function—this table accepts transactions from the consultant request function, enters and tracks them for followup and management purposes.  
                                             Table Name - CUSTOMER_USERS                Column (field) Name   Description                       SALES_CONSULTANT_ID   ID in Sales_Consultants table.           REQUEST_DATE   Date customer initiated request           REQUEST_TIME   Time customer initiated request                      
 
         [0122]     Table Description and function—This table stores information about each user at a customer&#39;s site. There are two classes of users, supervisor and staff. Only a user with supervisor rights can add new users. The web page “hard-wires” who the customer is so customer users are kept associated with the correct customer.  
                                                           Table Name - SALES_CONSULTANTS                            Field           Column (field)           Characteristics           Name   Description   Comment   &amp; Indexing                                                           
 
         [0123]     Table Description and function—This table stores data about each Sales Consultant. It is essentialy a reference table.  
                                   Column (field) Name   Description                   SALES_CONSULTANT_ID   Unique identifier * record key       CONSULANT_SHORT_NAME   Short name, nicknemame,           initials to be used on screens,           reports       CONSULTANT_FULL_FIRST_NAME   First name of consultant       CONSULTANT_LAST_NAME   Last name of consultant                  
 
         [0124]     It should be obvious to one skilled in the art that the present invention allows inventory tracking and management through a combination of manual, semi-automated, and automated means. The present invention also allows a manager to purchase in bulk and take advantage of promotions and other special offerings, thus reducing inventory costs. In addition, the present invention reduces the amount of inventory which must be kept on-hand by accurately modeling and predicting inventory needs. The present invention further provides customers with the ability to review new equipment, communicate with each other, and buy and sell excess inventory, refurbished equipment, and the like.  
         [0125]     While the preferred embodiment and various alternative embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed and described in detail herein, it may be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, including applying the present invention to fields other than healthcare.

Technology Category: g