Abstract: A service matching system for determining an optimized number of service providers for a given geographical region includes the determination of the allocation target that is proportional to the volume of services needed in the region. The need for additional service providers to service this demand is determined by the allocation target minus the existing number of service providers in the region. The price for participation in the service matching system is proportional to the volume of services needed.

Abstract: A system for matching consumers with service providers via a matching system that uses computers connected to a server through a network. A consumer is asked a series of preselected questions about his or her service needs. The consumer can answer the questions by clicking on an appropriate answer that is listed under the questions. Alternatively the consumer may type in a text answer. The matching system cross references the consumer answers with a database of service providers. The matching system posts a description of the case which is available to all service providers and forwards a description of the case to service providers that are qualified to perform the desired services. The service providers can submitting bids which are returned to the consumer. The consumer can view and compare all bids and obtain additional information about each service provider through the consumer homepage before selecting a service provider for the work.