Abstract: One aspect of the present invention is a computer-implemented method for managing supplier access to transaction information. In general, the method is comprised of receiving transaction information, selectively permitting access to the transaction information, and selectively prohibiting access to the transaction information. In certain embodiments, the transaction information is comprised of a first set of transaction information regarding transactions of a first plurality of items conducted between a first supplier and a buyer and a second set of transaction information regarding transactions of a second plurality of items conducted between a second supplier and the buyer. The first and second supplier are granted access to the first and second set of transaction information, respectively. The first and second supplier are denied access to the second and first set of transaction information, respectively.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention is a computer-implemented method for replenishing inventory materials. In general, the method is comprised of selectively permitting access to a material database by a supplier having a supplier catalog, receiving item information for a plurality of items from the supplier catalog and updating the material database based on the item information for the plurality of items to obtain an updated material database through an inventory blanket link tool interface. The inventory blanket link tool interface possesses functionality to create an at least one blanket line for each of the plurality of items. The item information for each item can include, but is not limited to, a manufacturer part, a material price, and a unit of measure. The updated material database can be relied upon by suppliers and buyers to replenish inventory material levels.

Abstract: A program for controlling a computer of a server for determining timing of payment of inventory items is disclosed. The program can include instructions for receiving a plurality of payment on use (POU) and payment on receipt (POR) inventory item descriptions, supplied by an at least one supplier, receiving a POR purchase order receipt for at least one POR inventory item upon receipt of the at least one POR inventory item, receiving a POU purchase order receipt for at least one POU inventory items upon use of the at least one POU inventory item, transmitting a payment message with respect to the at least one used POU or POR inventory item based on the POU or POR purchase order receipt, respectively, and automatically converting at least one POR or POU inventory item into at least one POU or POR inventory item, respectively.