KR100961804B1 - Inventory control system and methods - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a system and method that allows a third party to automatically order the necessary items by monitoring the company's inventory via the Internet and the World Wide Web ("web"). The invention also provides a forum through which resellers and customers can interact to directly resell surplus equipment and used equipment. In addition, the present invention ensures that the third party interacts with the broker, whereby both equipment purchased is actually delivered and the seller is properly compensated.

Description

Inventory Control Systems and Methods {INVENTORY CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHODS}

The present invention relates to the field of electronic inventory control. In particular, the present invention relates to the control of healthcare inventory.

The present invention is described herein by reference and claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 60 / 187,389, filed March 7, 2000.

This application contains material for the purpose of copyright protection. Since this application is filed or stored in the JPO, the owner of the copyright permits anyone to copy the patent specification and has all relevant rights.

In general, inventory management has been done by companies or organizations that use items in inventory. In small offices, inventory control is not a high priority, and sorting, etc., is done every time the goods leave the warehouse.

As the size of the office grows, inventory management becomes more and more problematic and it becomes very important to monitor frequently used or important products. In general, individuals are responsible for monitoring their inventory and ordering replacements when goods are reduced. As the company grows larger, more sophisticated inventory management techniques can be used. For example, the supply and use status may be analyzed to determine the minimum amount to hold in water and seasonal or other maximum use may be determined.

Some large offices have switched to automated or semi-automated inventory tracking systems. The automated system can use bar code scanners or other electronic identification devices to track outgoing and incoming inventory, and can prepare purchase requests as the product shrinks.

The present invention is an improvement over the prior art that transfers the burden of inventory tracking to a third party, which is referred to as the seller or VMI who manages inventory. When third parties provide VMI services for multiple companies, they gain significant purchasing power to negotiate more advantageously, improve supplier response and streamline the purchasing process.

The present invention allows third parties to monitor a company's inventory over the Internet and the World Wide Web ("web"). In addition, the present invention provides a cost effective solution to their inventory tracking needs, allowing small to medium sized companies to benefit from VMI.

The present invention utilizes a web-based technology that tracks inventory and automatically connects to suppliers, producers or distributors when additional supplies are needed to revolutionize inventory management. This results in labor savings compared to the labor intensive inventory management currently used.

In addition to wage savings, the present invention allows the company to save other costs as well. The present invention reduces the cost of logistics by ordering on a regular basis in anticipation of demand, and as a result, eliminates the need for express delivery. The present invention also allows a third party to take advantage of the benefits of being a producer or distributor when receiving an order for a product requested by its customer, resulting in further savings to the consumer.

While purchasing is a large part of inventory management, the present invention also facilitates other tasks. For example, the present invention allows consumers to resell goods or equipment to other companies to maximize their usefulness. Although some attempts to provide B2B equipment resale through web-based auctions in the prior art, such as Neoforma.com and Medibuy.com, the auction does not provide collateral for the utility of the equipment. The present invention enables resellers and consumers to interact, and the present invention provides a marketplace that acts as an intermediary, thereby ensuring that the equipment purchased is delivered and the seller is properly compensated.

1 is a block diagram illustrating the major hardware components of the present invention.

2 is a block diagram illustrating schematic software components of the present invention.

3 is a process flow diagram illustrating sample logic implemented when a client software attempts to update data stored on a server.

4 is a process flow diagram illustrating sample logic implemented when client software polls a data connection. And

5 illustrates a sample RFID entry and associated computer equipment.

The present invention implements an Internet-based, Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) system. The VMI system allows customers to reduce the costs by taking responsibility for inventory control by third parties or managers. Managers can provide services to various companies to negotiate better business relationships, improve supplier responses, and serve as effective customer advocates.

The present invention enables administrators to manage customer inventory inexpensively via the Internet and the World Wide Web. The present invention uses web enable technology for innovative inventory management by tracking inventory and automatically contacting suppliers, manufacturers or distributors when a product is needed. This can result in labor savings compared to the labor intensive inventory maintenance systems currently in use.

1 is a block diagram illustrating the major hardware components of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the present invention uses a customer / server architecture to facilitate communication between the customer inventory system and the manager. Clients running on Customer Inventory System 130 may be used to track inventory, place special orders, and interact with other customers.

The client may be a client software such as Visual Basic, Java, or C written application; Commercial software such as web pages accessible through a web browser; Or a combination of customer and commercial software such as a "plug-in" that works in a web browser. Examples of commercial Web browsers include Internet Explorer developed by Microsoft in Redmond, Washington, and Navigator developed by Netscape, Mountain View, California.

Customer inventory system 130 may enable manual inventory tracking, semi-automatic inventory tracking, or inventory may be distributed using an automated system. For example, without limiting the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a portable device such as a Palm VII provided with a barcode scanner from Palm Computing, Inc. The device allows a barcode or other identifier associated with each inventory item to be entered or scanned into the system prior to or simultaneously with item distribution. After each item is scanned, the calculations maintained by the present invention are adjusted to properly track inventory levels. And a receipt specification label containing product warnings and other information is printed for each item scanned.

Other inventory distribution methods, though not limited to, link the present invention to vending machines. Vending machines allow accurate inventory tracking without human interaction, except for periodic restoring of specific supplies or sets of supplies. In a preferred embodiment, the vending machine can include security means to prevent unauthorized supply distribution. Such security measures include, but are not limited to, the use of identification cards, personal identification numbers ("PINs), and biological identification systems. Vending machines equipped with security systems have specific supplies on an individual-to-person level or group-to-group basis. Access to the vending machine may also be provided with a label printing machine that attaches to the packaging of the warning or other informational dispensing article.

Optionally, a supply warehouse or other storage area may be provided with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) portal, as shown in FIG. The RFID portal is similar in structure to the airport security metal tracker except that it can be detected or scanned as the RFID tag passes through the entrance. The present invention can monitor RFID tag identifiers, including identifiers assigned to individuals, so that access to storage areas can be monitored and items removed by individuals can be tracked without any direct user interaction.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention may track personal product distribution and may require additional information when the article is dispensed. For example, and not limited to the present invention, when a doctor administers a sample drug to a patient, the present invention may require an identification of the patient, while the bandage is removed from inventory to refill the examination room, the present invention May not require identification of the patient. Patient ID can be used by the present invention to generate distribution record reports for a variety of products that help suppliers and manufacturers better understand the demographic characteristics of income, race, ethnicity, or typical recipients. The present invention is limited to demographic statistics only, and may not include personal specific information.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention allows a doctor or other person to carry a portable device capable of writing a prescription while talking to a patient. The portable device can connect to a local inventory management system via wireless or wired means, and at the appropriate time, a prescription article sample is automatically dispensed by the vending machine. Optionally, a message is displayed to the nursing unit stating that the article must be removed from inventory. If an item is dispensed by a vending machine or taken out of stock, the inventory quantity is reduced appropriately and new orders are placed as needed.

When inventory is distributed, customer inventory system 130 tracks supply usage habits to determine the minimum accessible amount. Usage information is studied for various time periods, and the present invention creates an inventory usage model based on the collected data. Once the model is created and cleaned up, the present invention modifies the minimum inventory limit that represents the expected usage. When the inventory amount approaches a calculated or specific threshold, the customer inventory system 130 automatically requests a new supply from the server 100. The supply request includes, but is not limited to, a variety of information, including, but not limited to, the urgency of the request, other trademarks or sizes, payment information, and customer thoughts about shipping information.

When server 100 receives a supply request, server 100 requests a transaction price from various manufacturers, suppliers or distributors 120's ("distributor 120"). The distributor 120 responds with a possible quantity, price, estimated delivery time, and other information. The server 100 automatically evaluates the response of each distributor 120 to find an optimal value for various factors related to each customer request. Once the appropriate distributor 120's response is selected, server 100 can automatically coordinate the payment and shipment of the requested feed to customer inventory system 130.

The communication between the customer inventory system 130, the server 100, and the distributor 120 is, but is not limited to, hypertext transfer protocol ("HTTP"), file transfer protocol ("FTP"), and simple mail transfer. Obtained through various methods, including protocols (“SMTP”), or other related methods.

Although purchase is a large part of inventory maintenance, the preferred embodiment of the present invention facilitates communication between customers, provides a source of information dissemination, and activates customer interaction. The present invention facilitates customer communication by allowing a customer to resell a product, equipment, or extra inventory to another businessman. The present invention provides an up-to-date catalog of available equipment and other inventory to enable information dissemination and customers can place orders. The present invention facilitates customer communication by allowing managers and customers to devise and distribute items describing new rules, regulations, procedures, revenue generating prospects, or other benefit information for other customers.

Customer inventory system 130 may serve as a major source of customer interaction with the present invention. Items, catalogs, inventory information, and other information may be stored on server 100, and customer inventory system 130 communicates with server 100 to obtain request information.

2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the server 100 and shows the data storage, the web server, and the application services provided by the server 100. All client communication first passes through firewall 210. Firewall 210 is a combination of software and hardware used to protect data stored in web server 220, database 230, and application server 240 from external access.

As noted above, the client communicates with the present invention through various protocols, including HTTP. Web server 220 is software that can transmit and receive information via HTTP or other protocols. Examples of the software include an Internet information server developed by Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Washington; An enterprise server developed by Netscape, Inc., Mountain View, California; And Apache Server, developed by the Apache Software Association of Forest Hill, Maryland.

When the customer requests the information, the web server 220 determines if the customer request needs to be examined in advance, in which case the request is forwarded to the application server 240 and if data is needed to fulfill the request. The web server 220 communicates directly with the database server 230.

Database server 230 may be a commercially available database software, such as Microsoft SQL Server developed by Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Washington, or Oracle 8i developed by Oracle Corporation of Redwoodshire, California, or another similar software. Can be used. Database server 230 stores raw data, such as customer inventory information, customer addresses, vendor names, vendor product types, and other similar information. This information is delivered to the customer by the web server 220, or the application server 240 interprets the information stored in the database server 230 before transmission.

Application server 240 incorporates the business rules associated with the present invention and is used to interpret database server 230 data prior to sending data for a customer. In addition to interpreting the information stored in the database server 230 for customer use, the application server 240 monitors inventory levels reflected in the database server 230 and based on the database server 230 information. Contact the vendor, adjust the inventory information when a new inventory is received, and provide the necessary services to facilitate inter-business recommerce of equipment and products stored in the database server 230.

Each of the web server 220, the database server 230, and the application server 240 has software operable on the same computer or on multiple computers. In addition, the application server 240 can be executed in the database server 230 as a set of business rules.

In the following, an alternative feature of the invention, ie a series of functional details, is described. This information is included to enable the purpose and describes the best mode completed when the present application was filed. The following functional description describes a preferred embodiment of the present invention, which does not limit the present invention.

To avoid confusion, the following terms are used in the feature description.

Customer-Represents a person buying a product through the present invention. The customer may have an "account account" to avoid credit card or COD delivery terms.

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Linked Supplier-This distinction is intended to avoid confusion with another vendor doing business in the present invention, given the draft, which is a general credit payment system. Distributors, manufacturers or other vendors (collectively "suppliers") are distinguished by using the inventory tracking and accounting software of the present invention and are therefore connected on the internet with their database of inquiries, order processing and billing.

Manual Supplier-If a supplier provides goods or services through the present invention but tracks inventory through a manual interface, such supplier is referred to as a "manual supplier." Account Account relationships are maintained between linked suppliers or manual suppliers to avoid the complexity of payment.

Non-linked Supplier-The supplier is not linked in the present invention.

Products-Items to be sold through the present invention.

Customer Inventory-A list of products maintained at a customer site.

In addition to the general definitions described above, these functional details form the setting of system functions. System functions fall into one of the following general sub-system categories:

Interactive-An interface with people and related functions for tracking inventory accounts, inventory consumption, out of order products, and more.

Nightly Processes-Periodic processing through orders takes place and invoices and related processing can be executed by interacting with the distribution system in the distributor's storage.

Corporate-A process that runs within a corporation, and updates the database. Account, client data management and other processing.

Distribution-Linked providers incorporated in the present invention. Industry standard enterprise resource planning (ERP) software can be combined with commercial accounting software to provide a complete business system for linked suppliers.

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Database Design-Database design can be used in the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

In the present invention, it is generally formed another user interface element that makes extensive use of such features and, in particular, the styles and functions and systems contained in the web page. In the present invention, web pages, application windows, program screens, and transactions comply with common rules. These rules include, but are not limited to:

You may not view, query, update or change the data of other customers. The transaction may use a unique identification that cross checks the customer ID on the sent page to ensure the enforcement of the IP address or rules. In this security procedure, the customer IP address or other unique identification can be changed only through the functions accessed by company employees.

A linked supplier cannot view the data of another linked supplier.

System parameters that control customer options can be set through account set-up and editing processes. This process can only be accessed by an authorized identifier. Initially, this identification can only be given by company personnel.

In general, data changes are reflected by transaction logs or transaction history, which can be accessed by customers or distributors and by company employees with the appropriate level of security.

Functions involving data changes are executed as server-side scripts rather than through client-side logic. In general, such server-side scripts may use a logic flow similar to FIG. 3. As illustrated in FIG. 3, client software running on the customer machine generates a page containing the data updated by the web server and sends the page to the web server (block 300).

When the web server receives a page from a customer's machine, the present invention can handle any changes requested to that page. If this change is successful (block 320), the present invention may return an acknowledgment page or display an acknowledgment message on the customer machine or generate appropriate transaction logging.

If the change fails, the present invention increments the redo coefficients by one (block 340). If the redo coefficient is less than or equal to 3, the present invention retransmits the customer change (block 370) to block 310 where any suitable change can be made. If the redo coefficient exceeds 3 (block 350), the present invention displays a page on the customer machine that contains any error code or other feedback information. This page may also include means for resubmitting the change as well as the original client data change.

In addition, the client software may periodically change the data connection existing between the client software and the server operating as part of the present invention. This software has the logic flow shown in FIG. 4 to obtain accurate data connection monitoring. As described at block “400”, client software may send one or more TCP / IP Ping commands or other network test commands to be modified until a high speed connection is possible to a server operating as part of the present invention.

If a high speed network connection is detected, normal operation may continue in the present invention (block 410). If a high speed network connection is not detected, the present invention may perform reestablishment such as connection (block 420). If a high speed network connection is reestablished (block 430), the present invention may continue normal operation (block 410). If a high speed network connection cannot be established, a low speed network connection, such as a dial-up network connection, may be established by the present invention (block 440). If a low speed network connection can be established, the present invention can continue normal operation including periodically attempting to reestablish the high speed network connection.

If a low speed network connection is not established, the client software may display an application or page having an alternative user interface or alternative functionality (block 460). Such alternative functionality may include limited reordering via local storage of product usage information, local inventory tracking and dial-up or another temporary connection with a known supplier (block 470). Once the connection is reestablished (block 490), the customer can send product usage scan information to a server operating as part of the present invention.

In addition to inventory tracking applications, the present invention can also use high speed network connections to allow customers to view new product orders or specific advertisements. When new products are entered into a product table or similar data structure, the present invention allows these products to appear on the client. According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention allows the customer to select a product of interest and to display only new products or allow the customer to handle it before the description. Such specifications include, but are not limited to, manufacturer, product name, specific product type, general product classification and quantity available or amount per unit of transport, and the like.

The client on which this information is displayed can cause the customer to indicate interest in the product by typing a command and clicking a button or other graphical interface element. If the customer shows interest in a particular product, the client may have the customer place an order once or repeat the order.

In addition to recording customer usage and ordering new listings or new products, client software can display advertisements on the rotating basis and can be used for other purposes. Typical client software screens also include, but are not limited to, additional information and product SKU fields, user ID fields, doctor ID fields, sales consultant contact fields, and the like.

If the customer does not directly affect the client software, the client software can place the cursor in the product SKU field. Positioning the cursor in the product SKU field allows the client software to accept automatically or manually entered product identification, such as barcode levels scanned via a wedge-style-bar-code scanner.

Once a product identification is entered, the client software can request a user ID for each product identification or product identification setup. The user ID is a unique identification created by each user or assigned to the user by the organization. This identification is manually entered through an active user interface or biometric recognition device such as a keyboard, touch screen or number pad, barcode identification associated with the user or through a RFID tag source associated with the user. The user ID is combined with a password to create a more secure inventory tracking system.

The User-ID is used to track who removes an item from the inventory. However, additional tracking or other controls are also needed. For example, when an employee removes an expensive or controlled item from inventory, additional approval is required. The present invention recognizes when an item is removed from such inventory, and the client software may require a Doctor-ID as an additional identifier to approve it. The client software may allow any user to enter a Doctor-ID for some items in the inventory, while the other may require a Doctor-ID and associated password for other items. In some applications, biological measures or other aggressive identifiers may be used in place of the Doctor-ID or Doctor-ID and password.

According to the present invention, when the client software receives the appropriate inventory data, the client software delivers the data to the server. As soon as the server receives the data, it sends a confirmation message to the client. If the client software does not receive a confirmation message within a predetermined time, it sends back the inventory tracking data to the server. If successive re-delivery attempts fail, a process similar to that shown in FIG. 3 is followed. The client software performs additional inventory checks while waiting for confirmation messages from the server.

In addition to recording inventory tracking information, client software gives customers access to a variety of options. The above options include, but are not limited to, an operation management page, an inventory status inquiry page, and an inventory receipt page. The Operations Management page allows authorized customers to create, edit, or remove User-IDs, Doctor-IDs, account groups, and account-related information. The inventory status inquiry page can retrieve and display a page containing customer inventory history, order status and other such information.

The inventory status inquiry is initiated through the client software and shows a page containing customer related information as well as site related information stored on the client computer. In a preferred embodiment, the server receiving the above request selects the appropriate customer and site related information from the customer inventory record table. The server generates a page or screen containing the customer inventory information, including the customer inventory information and the information obtained from the various tables. Table 1 shows a sample of the table and field names from which the above data can be extracted, along with examples of columns displayed on a typical inventory request screen.

Column head Source table Source field Explanation PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION article CUSTOMER_INVENTORY PRODUCT Inventory CUSTOMER_INVENTORY ON HAND QTY Order score CUSTOMER_INVENTORY ROP Reorder Quantity CUSTOMER_INVENTORY ROQ Activity status CUSTOMER INVENTORY STATUS

An advantage of the present invention over the prior art is the ability to simplify the addition of new items or replenishment of items to inventory. Linked Suppliers who load goods can provide the customer with a specially coded list of items, which the customer can enter into the client software automatically or manually. The client software can verify that the number on the packing list belongs to the customer, and can check whether the packing list has been distrusted by the customer's system more than once. If invalid or previously validated packing slips have been entered, the client software displays an error message.

Once a valid packing slip is entered, the client software retrieves the load from a centralized or supplier database and automatically updates customer inventory information to reflect the received inventory. Next, the client software displays a message confirming the successful change of inventory information and returns the customer to the main screen. You can also access the article search page through the client software. The article search page allows the user to select a search format, appropriate search parameters and their parameter values (collectively "search criteria"). For example, this is not intended to limit the present invention, but on the article search page, the customer can search by specifying the manufacturer and which category the article belongs to.

When the customer selects the appropriate search criteria, the client software passes these search criteria to the server. The server queries the article and article description database to return the article to the client software that meets or approaches the customer's search criteria.

If the user has selected a search form by article descriptor, the server selects a record from an article table or other similar table that has data that matches or approximates the description entered by the user. To expedite the selection process, the server indexes the item description, manufacturer, item name and other frequently searched fields.

If the appropriate record has been selected, the server sends the record to the client software to display it on the screen. The client software presents the record in various formats, such as column or table. Table 2 lists the column name sample, the source table name sample, the source field name, and additional functions that the client software displays when displaying the record on the screen.

Column headings Source table Source field Explanation PRODUCTS SHORT DESCRIPTION Product ID PRODUCTS PRODUCT ID Manufacturer PRODUCTS MANUFACTURER Manufacturing Item Number PRODUCTS MANUFACTURER_ITEM_NUMBER Product Type PRODUCTS PRODUCT_TYPE Category PRODUCTIONS PRODUCT_CLASS Check availability none Window active field Add Supplemental Plan none Window active field

As shown in Table 2, the client software allows the customer to check the availability of the item and add the item to the item replenishment plan. In a preferred embodiment, the client software makes use of the above functionality for each record displayed on the screen. In another embodiment, the record may have a check box or selection control to allow the customer to add availability to the replenishment plan by checking availability for multiple items.

When the customer checks availability for one or several items, the present invention allows the inventory of linked suppliers to be searched to determine available items, physical locations, expected procurement periods, and the like. If there is stock available, the client software allows the customer to order the item.

If the customer chooses to add the item to the inventory or replenishment plan, the client software will request restocking of the item, ask the customer for other parameters, and then send the appropriate information to the server. The server adds inputs appropriately to the Customer_Inventory table or other similar table, which enables inventory tracking in the present invention.

Client software allows a customer to require a sales consultant to contact him by phone, e-mail, or other means. In a preferred embodiment, the customer selects an item or supplier, and the client software can query the server to determine the appropriate sales consultant for the customer's selected item or supplier. Next, a dialog box or other interactive interface is provided on the customer's screen, allowing the customer to confirm the contact request. Once the customer confirms the contact request, the client software causes the server to store the request message in the Contact_Log table or other similar table.

In a preferred embodiment, the server periodically checks the contents of the Contact_Log table. If a new or unanswered request is found, the server sends a notification alerting the supplier who received the request. Such notice shall include the customer's e-mail address, telephone number, fax number, or other method of contact, as well as other relevant customer and article information.

While the present invention allows inventory usage to be monitored and when new inventory is ordered automatically when needed, customers can anticipate the need for additional inventory based on parameters outside the scope of the present invention. For example, although not intended to limit the invention, if the invention is used in a hospital and the Olympics are held in or near the city where the hospital is located, the hospital operator may anticipate the need to order additional frequently used items. will be. Client software gives customers the ability to process such orders quickly.

Customers can initiate these orders by clicking a button or interacting with a graphical or physical interface. In a preferred embodiment, the customer selects from the inventory or group of articles already included in the inventory or item replenishment plan, or retrieves the article through an interface as described above. As noted above, the customer can specify a standard restocking item quantity, and the client software uses the above criteria to determine if new additional inventory is required. In addition, the client software suggests the quantity that is available to help customers make more informed purchase decisions. Based on this information, the customer can modify the order quantity before placing the order.

The client software can send the order to the server. The server initiates the order fulfillment process as soon as the customer receives the order.

In addition, the server automatically places an order based on the customer's request. The server periodically checks the customer inventory table and monitors inventory usage. Seeing that inventory is emptied, the server can anticipate frequently used items and order the appropriate quantities. Initially, the server orders a limited quantity of customer costs. The server increases the order quantity for frequently ordered items to reflect the customer's usage habits. In addition, the server creates a history of the usage characteristics of the customer so that seasonal or other periodic usage behavior can be automatically considered.

When an order is given, the server can consult the linked supplier to determine each supplier's ability to fulfill the order. The server can calculate the shipping cost as each order is processed, and the server can select one or more suppliers that can efficiently meet the cost required by the customer. If a qualified supplier is identified, an order is provided that includes delivery and other options, as specified by the customer or as determined by the server.

The server may send the supplier's invoice to the billing system, generate a customer invoice based on the supplier's invoice, and send the customer invoice to the billing system. In addition, the server can be integrated with an automatic payment system, thereby limiting invoice delivery and other costs.

In addition to customer and order related functions, the server may also provide administrative functions. By way of example, and not by way of limitation, a user who is not a customer may be registered as a customer through a server-provided interface. This interface allows the user to specify a business name, business type, executive director or manager, physical address, mailing address, shipping address, one or more telephone numbers, employee names, employee licenses and authorization information, and the like.

If the user provides this information, the server can confirm that the address, phone number and postal code are all valid for each other and all required fields are filled. If nothing is verified, the server provides a data entry page with invalid data, simplifying data modification.

Server and client software can also allow customers and suppliers to change a variety of information. By way of example, without limiting the invention, the supplier may change prices, add or remove vendors and products; Add, edit or remove agreements; Investigate account status, open invoices, and perform other functions. The customer adjusts the total amount of inventory to reflect the closing report, and adds, edits or removes employee and employee information; Update payment and contract information; You can check balances, pay accounts, and perform other functions.

Linked suppliers can also take advantage of many of these same features. Linked suppliers who implement the invention track inventory and provide real time inventory information to customers; Receive an electronic order, generate a pick / pack list; Tracking of the fulfillment processor, including tracking within the container in which each item of the order is located, and generating a bar-code packing list and shipping label for each container; Issue the invoice.

The present invention provides the linked supplier with other advantages over the prior art. By way of non-limiting embodiment, the linked supplier list can be predicted based on previous order records, previous lead times, safe shipments, and the like, reducing the overall inventory investment. The present invention can also track the status of processing and shipment of various products in an order to linked suppliers and provide a higher level of customer service. The invention also allows a manager or other authority to electronically sign purchase orders, invoices or other invoices or order documents, and electronically send such documents as appropriate receipts.

In order to carry out the functions described above, preferred embodiments of the present invention include the following table configuration. The table structure described below includes the best objects that can be implemented and is not meant to limit the invention.

Table name                 

CLIENT_CONTROL

Table Descriptions and Functions—This table may be located locally on the customer computer. One or more records may be stored that contain control data required to adjust the online or offline function. The record can be updated via update applet delivery data to this control in the SQL database of the web server. The purpose is to provide control to run a process on the local device, even offline, and to automatically reconnect.

Column (field) name Explanation CUSTOMER_ID Customer ID-matches the customer ID from the CUSTOMERS data in the Web server SQL database. IP_ADDRESS This is the IP address for this device. DSL_PORT The connection path or port where the DSL connection is present (eg COM2); 0 if there is no DSL line for this device. DIAL_PORT The connection path or port where the dial-up connection exists (eg COM3); 0 if there is no dial-up connection for this device. DIAL_CONNECTION-PHONE The telephone number that the software dials to establish a connection to the web server system. 0 if there is no dial-up connection. DIAL_CALL_BACK Telephone number of the dial-up line; Allow recall from web server.

Table name

CLIENT_ERROR-LOG

Table Description and Functions-This table contains the error occurrence history for the processing occurring on the customer device. It is not necessary to provide an audit report, observe how the handling works, record a fatal-error situation, and have it presented to the customer. Such data may not be processed, and what is observed by system administrators and managers is stored.

Column (field) name Explanation Field Characteristics and Indexes ERROR_DATE Error log input date Associated with index-ERROR_TIME ERROR_TIME Error log entry time Associated with index-ERROR_DATE CALLER Name of the program causing the error log entry ERROR_MESSAGE Error message generated by the caller program USER-VIEWABLE Yes-message appears on the page you viewed; If no-internal message DATA_DUMP Data that causes an error (if any)

Table name

SYSTEM_ERROR_LOG

Table Description and Functions-This table contains a history of errors generated by processes originating from outside of the customer device. The table keeps track of invoices, observes how well the process works, and records errors that are fatal or not fatal. The data is automatically monitored by system administrators, programmers and managers without the need for a processor. SYSTEM_ERROR_LOG can use a data dictionary / field structure similar to the CLIENT_ERROR_LOG table.

Column (field) name Explanation Field Characteristics and Indexes ERROR_DATE Error log input date Associated with index-ERROR_TIME ERROR_TIME Error log entry time Associated with index-ERROR_DATE CALLER Name of the program causing the error log entry ERROR_MESSAGE Error message generated by the caller program USER-VIEWABLE Yes-message is displayed on the page you viewed; If no-internal message DATA_DUMP Data that causes an error (if any)

Table name

SYS_PARAMETERS

Store table descriptions and function-system-wide parameters in a common table.

Column (field) name Explanation Field Characteristics and Indexes PARAM_ID Check the parameters Primary index VAR1 First variable VAR2 Second variable VAR3 Third variable

Table name

CUSTOMER_APPLICATION

Table Description and Functions—This table may have a data dictionary similar to the CUSTOMERS table, and may be used to temporarily store unauthorized or unprocessed customer usage data submitted by the customer / client usage page. If such usage is handled, appropriate records can be deleted approximately from this table.

Column (field) name Explanation Field Characteristics and Indexes See CUSTOMERS

Table name

MEMBERS_APPLICATION

Table Description and Functions—This table may have a data dictionary similar to PRACTICE_MEMBERS and may temporarily store unapproved or unprocessed customer usage data submitted by a customer / client usage page. When such an application is processed, appropriate records can be deleted approximately from this table.

Column (field) name Explanation Field Characteristics and Indexes See PRACTICE_MEMBERS

Table name

CUSTOMERS

You can store a unique identifier for each customer in the table descriptions and function-permanent tables. Log in to the actual CUSTOMERS_MAINT_HISTORY table. Links to third party applications for letters of credit, invoices and shipments with addresses, phone numbers and other economic data.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Features and Indexes CUSTOMERS Customer confirmation Unique identifier (account number); Matches CUSTOMERS of A / R system. Primary index NAME Actual business name Physical member reference to doctor data index SALES-CONSULTANT Check the sales consultant assigned to your account index IPADDRESS1 Check the Internet address used for the link, the computer in the customer's office Large offices can have multiple computers IPADDRESS2 Internet address used for link, check computer at customer office Large offices can have multiple computers IPADDRESS3 Check the Internet address used for the link, the computer in the customer's office Large offices can have multiple computers IPADDRESS4 Internet address used for link, check computer at customer office Large offices can have multiple computers DISCOUNT_CODE Confirm that the discount code is used to calculate the price for the customer Code must be in DISCOUNT_CODE table index PHYSICAL_ADDRESS Physical street address PHYSICAL_STATE Physical location PHYSICAL_ZIP Zip code of actual physical location SHIP_TO_ADDRESS Address shipped SHIP_TO_STATE State of Shipment Shipped SHIP_TO_ZIP Postal Code of Shipment MAIL_ADDRESS Postal address (other than shipping destination) Text, documents (may be PO BOX to which USP & FedEX cannot be transported) MAIL_STATE State of postal address MAIL_ZIP Postal code of the postal address ADMINISTRATOR Client's manager, manager, etc

Table name

PRACTICE_MEMBERS

Table descriptions and functions-This table can be linked to the records in the CUSTOMERS table and stores data belonging to individual physicians or other health-care professionals who actually work.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Attributes and Indexing COSTOMER Customer to whom Practice Member is concerned Must already be in the CUSTOMERS table Index-Associated with MEMBER_NAME MEMBER_NAME Name of health care professional or doctor linked to CUSTOMER Form a single record key with CUSTOMERS With CUSTOMER MEMBER_TITLE Member's title (for example, executive director) MEMBER_MAIL_ADDRESS Mail address of each member MEMBER_MAIL_STATE Member email address status MEMBER_MAIL_ZIP Member Email Address Zip Code MEMBER_LICENSE_NO Professional qualification of member MEMBER_LICENSE_EXPIRE Expiry date of member's professional certification MEMBER_DEGREE1 1 rating from member MEMBER_DEGREE2 2 ratings from members MEMBER_DEGREE3 3 ratings from members MEMBER_DEGREE4 4 ratings from members MEMBER_NOTES Text / comment field DATE_NEW Date the member was added to the table DATE_LAST Last activity date

Table name

DISCOUNT_CODES

Table Description and Function-May contain a decimal value that represents the unique price to be claimed or the discount to be awarded to each customer. Any number of customers can use the discount code. When a decimal value associated with a given code is imposed, the result is that all prices for all customers using the code change. If a customer's discount code specifies a discount value that is greater than allowed for a given product, the present invention may limit the price to a maximum discount.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Attributes and Indexing DISC_CODE Discount code Identification of specific discounts; numbers 10, 20, 30, etc. to allow for future insertions, for example 14 Primary index DISC_VALUE The decimal value of the given discount NOTES week; Text field for description of specific discount code

Table name

CUSTOMER_INVENTORY

Table descriptions and functions store inventory in customer offices. One record for each customer / SKU combination, including all that have been used in the past, or that will be used for the next order cycle. Permanent ticket. Activity logged in to the CUSTOMER_INVENTORY_TX table.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Features and Indexing CUSTOMER Customer confirmation Associated with index-PRODUCT PRODUCT Check product on customer site ON_HAND_QTY The amount of items the customer has ROP Amount of reorder When on_hand_qty falls below this amount, a new order for the product is triggered. ROQ Quantity to be ordered The ordering process uses this amount when the product is "triggered" STATUS Item's active state Values: Active (default, normal setting) NoOrder (continues to write inventory but no more orders) NoUse (does not accept the scanned use of the product) index

Table name

PRODUCTS

Table Description and Features-Identify products that can be sold at any point in time. Contains products that are no longer active. One record for each product / SKU / item number.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Features and Indexing PRODUCT_ID Product identification; SKU; It is also an "item number" Primary index SHORT_DESCRIPTION Most printed output and short description on screen index LONG_DESCRIPTION Long description for further explanation Index, so that each word is indexed separately. MANUFACTURER Commodity manufacturing company; Must be in MANUFACTURERS table index MANUFACTURER_ITEM_NUMBER Manufacturer's product identifier index STATUS Item status Values: Active (default, normal use) NoOrder (Allow scan use, no order) NoUse (Disable scan; No activity; Discard or stop) PRODUCT_CLASS Product marketing / sales classification index PRODUCT_GROUP Product classification of the product index PRODUCT_LINE Classification of financial records of products index SELL_START_DATE Date when new orders for this product can be processed Orders will not be processed before this date (new items not yet available) SELL_END_DATE Date after which new orders for this product cannot be processed Orders will not be processed after or after this date (stopped products) PRODUCT_PICTURE Product picture bitmap image JPEG or GIF

Table name

MANUFACTURES

Table Description and Functions-The table remembers all manufacturers whose products are moved to the PRODUCTS table. It is used as a reference and valuation table for commodities.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Features and Indexing MANUFACTURER_ID Abbreviation of manufacturer Primary index MANUFACTURER_NAME General business name of manufacturer index DATE_ADDED Date this manufacturer was added to the table

Table name

ORDERS

Table Description and Function-After storing the orders generated by the nightly process and / or significant ordering process, it is downloaded to the distributor. Used as an order "header" record. The line item is linked to the stored ORDER_DETAIL table. There is no maintenance history log table. One record for each order is generated and downloaded.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Features and Indexing ORDER_NO Order Number; Unique identifier for the order Caused by the ordering process;
Increase SYSTEM_PARAMETER for Order Number Primary index ORDER_DATE Order Date Created index ORDER_TIME Order Time Created ORDER_SOURCE How did the order occur? Source is:
AUTO-night process MANUAL- Manual order entered on terminal in customer office customer Customer ordered index LINKED_SUPPLIER Associate Order to Downloaded Provider index ORDER_STATUS The situation of the order; Show only recent events, estimated order value:
GEN-occurrence
Downloaded to PLACED- Supplier
S_BILLED- Supplier sent Med-e-Track invoice
C_BILLED- The system converts supplier invoices to customer invoices. index STATUS_DATE Date that status changed SHIP_TO_ADDRESS The address to which the order will be shipped; Appears on downloaded order date ORDER_PRODUCT_TOTAL Only the full value of the goods order; Does not include taxes, shipping, or other charges

Table name                 

ORDER_DETAIL

Table descriptions and functions-store line item details in ORDERS One record for each line item on the order.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Features and Indexing ORDER_DTL_ORDER_NO Order number to which this detail record belongs Associated with index- ORDER_LINE_NUMBER ORDER_LINE_NUMBER Line number of the order Together with Order_Dtl_Order_no to form a unique identifier PRODUCT Product identifier of the ordered item index ORDER_QUANTITY Quantity of products ordered SHIP_QUANTITY Quantity of items shipped; as reflected in the supplier's cargo / goods list shipped and processed CUSTOMER_UNIT_PRICE Price to be charged to customer CUSTOMER_UNI_SALES_TAX Sales tax if there is something to be charged to the customer PRODUCT_ORDERED_SUBTOTAL Price =
Order_Quamtity * Customer_Unit_Price PRODUCT_SHIP_SUBTOTAL Price =
Ship_Quantity * Customer_Unit_Price LINKED_SUPPLIER_UNIT_COST Price paid is linked to the supplier for the item above LINKED_SUPPLIER_PRODUCT_SHIP_SUBTOTAL Price =
Ship_Quantity * Linked_Supplier_Unit_cost

Table Name-

LINKED_SUPPLIER

Table Description and Function-Remember and set up each linked provider that is a distributor linked to a website. Records for each supplier in the future, present or past are simultaneously linked to Med-e-Track. Activity is recorded in LINKED_SUPPLIER MAINT_HISTORY. Accounts are linked to the supplier table in the SOLOMAN Accounts Payable subsystem.

Column (field) name Explanation comment SUPPLIER ID of the supplier Unique identifier SUPPLIER_IP_ADDRESS IP address where the link process takes place OPEN_DATE Date when relationship was set up / started

Table Name-

SUPPLIER_INVOICE

Table Description and Function-Remembers the list of invoices / packs uploaded from the linked supplier. The sub records the invoice as a "header". A given order has several invoices. Links to a SUPPLIER_INVOICE_DETAIL record that conveys line item details. Invoices uploaded from the distributors are used to reflect the orders they are shipped to and then generate customer invoices. Uploaded invoice data is also forwarded to the Accounts Payable module of Solomon IV software for corporate accounts / tracking. Customer invoices created and recorded in this table are also transferred to the Accounts Receivable module.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field properties
& Indexing INTERNAL_INVOICE_ID Internal, system-generated invoice identifier Similar supplier invoice issuance plans / numbers enable unique invoice identification. ORDER Order number for invoice on shipping / invoice SUPPLIER_INVOICE Invoice Identifier from Supplier Invoice data uploaded SUPPLIER_INVOICE_DATE Date of uploaded vendor invoice SUPPLIER_INVOICE_TIME Time the supplier invoice was uploaded Invoice time is not shown in the supplier database. AP_DATE Date when the supplier invoice data was posted to the AP table AP_TIME The time when the supplier invoice data was posted to the AP table. CUSTOMER_INVOICE Invoice ID generated by nightly operation to bill customer for shipment Existence means that the night work is in progress and the separate invoice number is generated. CUSTOMER_INVOICE_DATE Date of customer invoice generated by nightly operation CUSTOMER_INVOICE_TIME Customer Invoice Working Hours AR_DATE time SHIPMENT Shipping Document Number It may be an ID separate from the invoice number. Index on this field for packing slip data recovery SHIP_VIA Shipping method; UPS Ground

Table Name-

INTERNAL_INVOICE_SHIP_DETAIL

Table Description and Functions-This table contains shipping information for shipments covered by Internal Invoice. There is a record for each vehicle, including shipments covered by the invoice. It is linked to the Internal_Invoice table.

Column (field) name comment INTERNAL_INVOICE_ID SHIP_CARTON_ID Contains unique record ID with invoice ID TRACKER_NO

Table Name-                 

SUPPLIER_INVOICE_DETAIL

Table Description and Functions-This table conveys line item level details for invoices uploaded from linked suppliers / distributors. Some line item level details are used to update the order data to support rapid order status inquiries and to track back order items.

Column (field) name Explanation comment INTERNAL_INVOICE_ID Identifier of Internal Invoice Number INTERNAL_INVOICE_LINE_NUMBER Line number for internal invoice Form a unique key with the Internal Invoice identifier. SHIPPED_PRODUCT Shipped Products SHIP_QUANTITY Quantity shipped UNIT_PRICE Supplier's Unit Price UNIT_TAX Sales tax (if any) EXTENDED_PRICE Value =
Ship_qty * Unit_Price Only subtotal of the product. LINE_TAX_TOTAL Value =
Ship _Qty * Unit_Tax LINE_TOTAL_AMOUNT EXTENDED_PRICE + Line_Tax_Total

Table Name-

SUPPLIER_COST

Table Description and Function-Remembers the price that will be paid to each linked supplier in the system. Records for each linked provider and SKU. Permanent ticket. The status is registered in the SUPPLIER_COST_MAINT_HISTORY table.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Characteristics & Indexing

Table Name-

SUPPLIER_COST_MAINT_HISTORY

Table Description and Function-Records changes in the SUPPLIER_COST record. A record of each field changed during the update of a given record.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Characteristics & Indexing

Table Name-

PRODUCT_MAIN_HISTORY

Table Description and Function-Records changes to the PRODUCTS table. A record for each field that changed during the update of a given record.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Characteristics & Indexing

Table Name-

PRODUCT_CLASS

Table descriptions and functions-identify valid product classes; It serves as a reference table.

Column (field) name Explanation PROD_CLASS_CODE Code for product class description DESCRIPTION Text / description name for product class code

Table Name-

PRODUCT_GROUP

Table descriptions and functions-identify valid suites; It serves as a reference table.

Column (field) name Explanation PRODUCT_GROUP_CODE Code for family description DESCRIPTION Text / Description Name for Family Code

Table Name-

PRODUCT_LINE

Table descriptions and functions-to identify valid product lines; Serve as a reference table

Column (field) name Explanation PRODUCT_LINE_CODE Code for product line description DESCRIPTION Text / Description Name for Product Line Code

Table Name-

CUSTOMER_INVENTORY_TRANSACTIONS

Table Description and Functions-A transaction history table for activities that change data in the Customer_Inventory table, although transactions will occur for changes to situations, ROP, ROQ, and Note values, ie non-on-hand amounts; A record of each change recorded; Major uses will record inventory activity. Each transaction affects only one field of data. The transaction code indicates that the update / change activity has been performed and the data fields have been updated.

Column (field) name Explanation comment TRAN_NO A unique identifier for each transaction;
Not important Features such as check numbers TRAN_DATE Date the transaction was processed TRAN_TIME The time that the transaction was processed TRAN_ID Code identifying the transaction line Value: TBD PRODUCT Product identifier of the affected item QTY CUSTOMER Customers whose inventory data has been updated / changed USER ID Consumer who executed the transaction BEFORE_VALUE Data field value before update action AFTER_VALUE Data field value after update operation

Table Name-

CONTACT_LOG

Table Description and Functions-This table accepts transactions from consultant request functions and enters and tracks them for tracking and management purposes.

Column (field) name Explanation SALES_CONSULTANT_ID ID of the Sales_Consultants table REQUEST_DATE Date the customer initiated the request REQUEST_TIME The time the customer initiated the request

Table Name-

CUSTOMER_USERS

Table Description and Functions-This table stores information about each user at your site. There are two levels of users, administrators and staff. Only users with administrative rights can add new users. The web page "hard-wire", in which the customer is a customer user, continues to be associated with a legitimate customer.

Column (field) name Explanation comment Field Characteristics & Indexing

Table Name-

SALES_CONSULTANTS

Table Description and Function-This table stores the data for each Sales_Consultant. This is essentially a reference table.

Column (field) name Explanation SALES_CONSULTANT_ID Unique identifier * record key CONSULTANT_SHORT_NAME Abbreviated name, nickname, initials to be used on screen, report. CONSULTANT_FULL_FIRST_NAME Name of consultant CONSULTANT_LAST_NAME Consultant's last name

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention enables inventory tracking and management through a combination of manual, semi-automatic and automated means. The present invention also lowers inventory costs by allowing managers to make bulk purchases and take advantage of promotions and other special offers. In addition, the present invention reduces the amount of inventory that must be stored by hand by accurately modeling and predicting inventory requirements. The present invention further provides customers the ability to review new equipment, communicate with each other, buy and sell excess inventory, repaired equipment, and the like.

While the preferred and various alternative embodiments of the present invention have been described and described in detail in the specification, various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, including the application of the invention to fields other than healthcare. Experts in the field will appreciate that change can be made.

Claims (57)

In the inventory management system, One or more computers, each having one or more storage media, One or more resident on the storage medium storing (1) customer inventory information, (2) inventory and cost information for a plurality of manufacturers, suppliers or distributors, and (3) inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer. Database, and Providing client interface to the database and residing on the storage medium; The client software identifies users, allows users to be classified into groups, the groups are assigned permissions and roles, The software evaluates the customer inventory information and inventory and cost information for the plurality of manufacturers, suppliers or distributors based on inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer, The software automatically orders the manufacturer, supplier or distributor, the inventory that best fits the inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer based on the evaluation, The software tracks inventory items in the database for the customer and the manufacturer, supplier or distributor as inventory items are added to, restocked, or removed from inventory, The software updates data on the database via a software interface to the database, The software provides an interface for a manufacturer, supplier or distributor to access information in the database according to the assigned permissions and roles. The method of claim 1, The tracking is performed by detecting an RFID tag associated with the inventory item. The method of claim 2, Detecting the RFID tag associated with the inventory item is performed by one or more RFID readers. The method of claim 2, And said RFID tag is read by a hand held electronic device. The method of claim 2, The RFID tag is read by an electronic portal device. The method of claim 1, The client software further predicts the inventory needs of the customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor based on inventory usage, inventory availability trends, or both, Evaluation of the customer stock information and inventory and cost information for a plurality of manufacturers, suppliers or distributors is performed in accordance with the inventory replenishment parameter provided by the customer and the prediction of the inventory requirements. The method of claim 1, Wherein said client software monitors inventory levels and reports anticipated shortages. The method of claim 1, The client software monitors inventory levels and generates orders to compensate for anticipated shortages. The method of claim 1, Wherein said client software allows a user to order new inventory items or replenish inventory when desired. The method of claim 1, The customer inventory information is collected and stored for multiple customer business sites or multiple customers, Inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer are collected and stored for the multi-customer business site, multi-customer or both. The method of claim 1, The inventory and cost information is collected and stored for multiple manufacturers, suppliers or distributors. The method of claim 1, Inventory update system, characterized in that the update is executed in real time. The method of claim 1, The client software groups inventory items, places restrictions on the distribution of inventory items, allows recording of information when inventory items belonging to one group are distributed, and counts the inventory of each inventory item removed from inventory. Inventory management system, characterized in that for allowing the output of inventory item specific information for. The method of claim 1, And said client software allows restriction and removal of individual users and modification of user information. The method of claim 1, A user of said system is identified by an optical reader capable of reading specific coded information about an individual. The method of claim 1, And wherein the user of the system is identified by an electronic device that scans a wirelessly accessible identifier for the individual. The method of claim 1, The user of the system is an inventory management system, characterized in that it is identified by a biological identification device. The method of claim 1, Wherein said client software allows a user to specify a price of a product for sale in the inventory. The method of claim 1, Wherein said client software provides an interface for automatically entering inventory item identification information. In the inventory management method executed by a computer, One or more collected data with client software including (1) customer inventory information, (2) inventory and cost information for a plurality of manufacturers, suppliers or distributors, and (3) inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer. Storing on a database, Evaluating, via one or more computers, customer stock information and inventory and cost information for a plurality of manufacturers, suppliers, or distributors, based on inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer; Automatically ordering inventory for a manufacturer, supplier or distributor that best fits the inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer; Tracking inventory items in the database for the customer and the manufacturer, supplier or distributor as inventory items are added to, restocked, or removed from inventory, Updating data on the database using the information obtained by the inventory tracking via a software interface to the database, and Providing the customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor with access by client software to the information in the database, Wherein said client software allows said customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor to be grouped into groups, wherein permissions and roles are assigned to each group. The method of claim 20, And said tracking is performed by detecting an RFID tag associated with said inventory item. The method of claim 21, Detecting the RFID tag associated with the inventory item is performed by one or more RFID readers. The method of claim 21, And said RFID tag is read by a hand held electronic device. The method of claim 21, And said RFID tag is read by an electronic portal device. The method of claim 20, Estimating inventory needs of the customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor based on inventory usage or inventory availability trends, Evaluation of the customer stock information and inventory and cost information for the manufacturer, supplier or distributor is performed in accordance with the inventory replenishment parameter provided by the customer and the prediction of the inventory requirement. The method of claim 20, Wherein said client software monitors inventory levels and reports anticipated shortages. The method of claim 20, Wherein said client software monitors inventory levels and generates orders to compensate for anticipated shortages. The method of claim 20, Wherein said client software allows a user to order new inventory items or replenish inventory when desired. The method of claim 20, The customer inventory information is collected and stored for multiple customer business sites or multiple customers, Inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer are collected and stored for the multi-customer business site, multi-customer or both. The method of claim 20, The inventory and cost information is collected and stored for multiple manufacturers, suppliers or distributors. The method of claim 20, Inventory update method, characterized in that the update is executed in real time. The method of claim 20, The client software groups inventory items, places restrictions on the distribution of inventory items, allows recording of information when inventory items belonging to one group are distributed, and counts the inventory of each inventory item removed from inventory. Inventory management method characterized in that for allowing the output of inventory item specific information for. The method of claim 20, Identifying through the optical reader specific coded information about the individual or object. The method of claim 20, Identifying the wirelessly accessible identifier associated with the individual or object by the electronic device scanning the wirelessly accessible identifier. The method of claim 20, And identifying a user of the client software by a biological identification device. The method of claim 20, Providing a software interface for automatically entering inventory item identification information. The method of claim 20, And said client software allows a user to specify a price of a merchandise for sale in a stock. The method of claim 20, And said client software provides an interface for automatically entering inventory item identification information. A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for inventory management, Access to one or more databases that store data including (1) customer inventory information, (2) inventory and cost information for multiple manufacturers, suppliers, or distributors, and (3) inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer Steps, Evaluating stock and cost information and customer stock information for a plurality of manufacturers, suppliers or distributors, based on inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer; Ordering inventory for a manufacturer, supplier or distributor that best fits the inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer, Tracking inventory items for the customer and the manufacturer, supplier, or distributor as the inventory item is added to the inventory, replenished, or removed from the inventory, Updating data on the database, and A program comprising a group of instructions for causing a computer to execute the step of providing access to information in the database to the customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor, The tracking is performed by detecting the respective inventory item and updating the database through one or more software interfaces to the database, And cause the customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor to be grouped into groups, each group being assigned permissions and roles. 40. The method of claim 39, A group of instructions for estimating the inventory needs of the customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor based on inventory usage or inventory availability trends, Evaluation of the customer inventory information and inventory and cost information for the manufacturer, supplier or distributor is performed in accordance with the inventory replenishment parameter provided by the customer and the prediction of the inventory requirements. Possible recording media. 40. The method of claim 39, (1) a group of orders to monitor inventory levels, (2) A computer-readable recording medium having a program recorded thereon, further comprising a group of instructions for reporting a predicted shortfall. 40. The method of claim 39, (1) a group of orders to monitor inventory levels, (2) A computer-readable recording medium having a program recorded thereon, the apparatus further comprising a group of instructions for generating an order to compensate for the expected shortfall. 40. The method of claim 39, And a group of instructions for causing a user to order new inventory items or replenish inventory when desired. 40. The method of claim 39, The ordering step is automatically executed based on the evaluation of customer stock information and inventory and cost information for the manufacturer, supplier or distributor in accordance with the stock replenishment parameter provided by the customer. Readable recording medium. 40. The method of claim 39, And a group of instructions for executing the updating step in real time. 40. The method of claim 39, And a group of instructions for identifying, via an optical reader, specific coded information about an individual or an object. 40. The method of claim 39, And a group of instructions for identifying a wirelessly accessible identifier associated with an individual or an object by an electronic device that scans the wirelessly accessible identifier. 40. The method of claim 39, And a group of instructions for identifying a user of said program by a biological identification device. 40. The method of claim 39, Further to the user of the program identified by the electronic device scanning a wirelessly accessible identifier for the individual, a group of instructions for allowing access to information in the one or more databases, in accordance with the assigned permissions and roles. And a computer readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program. 40. The method of claim 39, And a group of instructions for allowing a user of the program identified by the biological identification device to access the information in the one or more databases according to the assigned permissions and roles. Readable recording medium. 40. The method of claim 39, And a group of instructions for executing registration and removal of individual users of said program and modification of user information. 40. The method of claim 39, A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program comprising: a group of instructions for executing an administrator function. 40. The method of claim 39, (1) group and classify inventory items, (2) impose restrictions on the distribution of inventory items, (3) permit the recording of information when inventory items or individual inventory items belonging to a particular group or group set are added to inventory, replenished, and distributed from inventory, (4) A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program that allows output of inventory item specific or group specific labels or information for the counting of each inventory item removed from the inventory. 40. The method of claim 39, And a group of instructions for allowing a user to specify a price of a merchandise for sale in the inventory. In the inventory management system, One or more computers, each having one or more storage media, One or more resident on the storage medium storing (1) customer inventory information, (2) inventory and cost information for a plurality of manufacturers, suppliers or distributors, and (3) inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer. Database, and Providing client interface to the database and residing on the storage medium; The client software identifies users, classifies users into groups, assigns permissions and roles to the groups, The software evaluates the customer inventory information and inventory and cost information for the plurality of manufacturers, suppliers or distributors based on the inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer, The software automatically orders the manufacturer, supplier or distributor, the inventory that best fits the inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer based on the evaluation, The software tracks inventory items in the database for the customer and the manufacturer, supplier or distributor as inventory items are added to, restocked, or removed from inventory, The tracking is performed by detecting an RFID tag associated with each of the inventory item, The software updates data on the database via a software interface to the database, The software provides an interface for a manufacturer, supplier or distributor to access information in the database according to the assigned permissions and roles. In the inventory management method executed by a computer, Data comprising (1) customer inventory information, (2) inventory and cost information for a plurality of manufacturers, suppliers or distributors, and (3) inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer on one or more databases with client software. Collecting and storing in, Evaluating, via one or more computers, customer stock information and inventory and cost information for a plurality of manufacturers, suppliers, or distributors, based on inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer; Automatically ordering inventory for a manufacturer, supplier or distributor that best fits the inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer; Tracking inventory items in the database for the customer and the manufacturer, supplier or distributor as inventory items are added to, restocked, or removed from inventory, Updating data on the database using the information obtained by the inventory tracking via a software interface to the database, and Providing the customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor with access by client software to the information in the database, The tracking is performed by detecting an RFID tag associated with the inventory item, Wherein said client software allows said customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor to be grouped into groups, wherein permissions and roles are assigned to each group. A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for inventory management, Access to one or more databases that store data including (1) customer inventory information, (2) inventory and cost information for multiple manufacturers, suppliers, or distributors, and (3) inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer Steps, Evaluating stock and cost information and customer stock information for a plurality of manufacturers, suppliers or distributors, based on inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer; Ordering inventory for a manufacturer, supplier or distributor that best fits the inventory replenishment parameters provided by the customer, Tracking inventory items for the customer and the manufacturer, supplier, or distributor as the inventory item is added to the inventory, replenished, or removed from the inventory, Updating data on the database, and Providing access to information in the database to the customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor, The tracking is performed by detecting an RFID tag associated with each inventory item and updating the database via one or more software interfaces to the database, And cause the customer, manufacturer, supplier or distributor to be grouped into groups, each group being assigned permissions and roles.

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