Centralized, requisition-driven, order formulating, e-procurement method using reverse auction
US7110976B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 21, 2001 |
| Grant date | Sep 19, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 18, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06Q40/04
- WIPO fieldIT methods for management
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A system and methods are described for providing a fully automated, requisition-driven, “Just-In-Time” supply-based, centralized e-procurement system, suitable for governments or entities with similar procurement needs. A Web site-based reverse-auction among competing authorized suppliers is employed for purchase of all goods and services, except those that must be procured by other means. Automated methods are provided for: requisition handling and pooling; order formulation; processing and tracking; consolidated, distributed and other shipping arrangements; procurement accounting and payment authorization; supplier-relations administration; centralized e-procurement catalog management; procurement data analysis, and report and alert generation; procurement-needs analysis; and inventory management. A structure of internal and external modules is created for security. To the extent possible, all communication from and to and within the system is performed digitally.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.