Abstract: The application is directed to methods, systems, procedures, networks and storage apparatus used to conduct conversions of data using remote conversion servers. In one embodiment of the present invention, recent query results may be stored and then used to solve subsequent conversions rather than querying a remote conversion server when the same conversion was previously completed. A counter may be referenced to determine if too much time has passed since the original query was stored in the buffer and, if too much time has passed, the buffer may be cleared and the remote conversion server may be queried to convert the pending data. The resulting conversion may be stored for subsequent use.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for inventory management. Managing data items in an inventory management system. A request to add a data item to the inventory management system is received. The data item has an associated set of attributes to be represented in the inventory management system. It is determined whether the inventory management system includes a structure in which the data item and the sets of attributes associated with the data item can be represented. If no structure exists in which the data item and the set of attributes associated with the data item can be represented, a new structure is automatically defined in which the data item and the set of attributes associated with the data item can be represented. The data item and the set of attributes associated with the data item is added to the defined new structure.

Abstract: The application is directed to methods, systems, procedures, networks and storage apparatus used to conduct conversions of data using remote conversion servers. In one embodiment of the present invention, recent query results may be stored and then used to solve subsequent conversions rather than querying a remote conversion server when the same conversion was previously completed. A counter may be referenced to determine if too much time has passed since the original query was stored in the buffer and, if too much time has passed, the buffer may be cleared and the remote conversion server may be queried to convert the pending data. The resulting conversion may be stored for subsequent use.

Abstract: A method is described for updating information relating to an item of stock in a supply chain that resides in a storage facility of a custodian of the stock when the ownership of the item of stock passes from a first owner to a second owner. The method includes providing a first data structure representing the custodian of the item of stock, providing a second separate data structure representing the owner of the item of stock, and passing the ownership of the item of stock from the first owner to the second owner. Passing the ownership includes changing the name from the first owner to the second owner in a field in the second data structure.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for inventory management. managing data items in an inventory management system. A request to add a data item to the inventory management system is received. The data item has an associated set of attributes to be represented in the inventory management system. It is determined whether the inventory management system includes a structure in which the data item and the set of attributes associated with the data item can be represented. If no structure exists in which the data item and the set of attributes associated with the data item can be represented, a new structure is automatically defined in which the data item and the set of attributes associated with the data item can be represented. The data item and the set of attributes associated with the data item is added to the defined new structure.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for managing data items in an inventory management system. A set of data items representing stock items is maintained in an inventory, wherein at least one stock item is described by two or more values. Each value being expressed in different units of measurement. A change request for a change of the values for the stock item that is described in the two or more different units of measurement is received. The two or more values for the stock item that is described in two or more different units of measurement are updated.