Abstract: A computer network is used to improve the profitability of one or more business entities. The network receives business-related data from at least two business entities and stores at least some of the data from each of the business entities in a common database. Then, in accordance with the terms of an agreement among the business entities, the network allows at least one of the business entities to receive information gathered from the common database.

Abstract: A database management system receives a request to perform an operation on a set of target data and, at some point after it begins executing that operation, places a lock on the target data to prevent concurrent execution of other operations on the target data. In some embodiments, the system receives an instruction from a user to perform a data-definition operation on a set of target data; places an initial lock on the target data at a level that allows at least one concurrent operation on the target data; begins executing the operation; and then places a final lock on the target data at a level that excludes all other concurrent operations on the target data.

Abstract: A service establishment, such as a fast-food restaurant or a bank, improves customer satisfaction by monitoring the quality of service received by the customer and compensating the customer with a personalized offer of compensation when service is inadequate. When the customer visits the service establishment, the service establishment detects the customer's presence by acquiring a signal from a device, such as an RF transponder, carried by the customer. The establishment uses information contained in this signal to identify the customer and to retrieve archived information about previous interactions with the customer. The establishment then analyzes the archived information to identify a product or service of interest to the customer and, before the customer leaves the service establishment, to offer the product or service to the customer.

Abstract: A hardware cabinet includes a chassis that is designed for mounting multiple heat-generating electronic systems and a door that allows access into the cabinet. The door has a solid face that extends from the top portion of the door along the majority of the door's length. An opening formed in a lower portion of the door allows chilled air to enter the cabinet. The chassis is structured so that, when electronic systems are mounted in the cabinet, a plenum is formed between the door and the electronic systems. The plenum allows air entering the cabinet to rise between the door and the electronic systems.