Abstract: A system of managing a supply chain via a computer network that includes a manufacturing enterprise is provided. The system includes a host system, a network link to at least one supply chain entity, and an a-source application executing on the host system. The a-source application processes a bill of material file, which includes verifying demographic information, collecting pricing data and items in external warehouse files, and mapping the items to a commodity. The a-source application also generates and transmits a bid request to a web site. The a-source application further receives marketing data including customer demand for manufacturing enterprise components and receives and analyzes bid responses received from the supply chain entities to determine which components are in demand. The a-source application further generates an award notice based in part on customer demand and availability of components produced internally compared to similar components offered by outside sources.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the invention relates to a method and system for performing parts requirement planning activities across an extended supply chain. The method comprises loading a bill of material file into a computer network, processing the bill of material file, generating a bid request from the bill of material file, and transmitting the bid request to a web site. The method further includes receiving at least one bid response from a supplier, analyzing the bid response, generating an award notice, and transmitting the award notice to the supplier. The method also includes tracking selected activities in a log. Processing the bill of material file includes incorporating marketing cost analysis data into the computer network.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the invention relates to a computer-based system and method for automating supply chain functions in a network environment, and more particularly, for identifying and implementing cost-savings techniques within the parts planning and procurement system of an extended enterprise. The system comprises a manufacturing enterprise system, comprising a host system operating a web server, an applications server, and a database manager; a data storage device in communication with the host system, and at least one terminal for accessing the host system. The system runs on a network that is coupled to the Internet and is accessible to a supplier enterprise system identified with proper permissions. The applications server executes a set of programs for managing the manufacturing enterprise system, including the A-source application and parts requirement planning tool of the present invention.