Abstract: A system and method for generating a work order instructions is described. In one embodiment an order from a customer is received, which includes information for a desired end product and the information is converted into machine-readable work order instructions, which includes instructions to alter goods in accordance with the desired end product. In addition, the machine readable work order instructions are sent via a network to a value-adding business and loaded into a machine at the value-adding business, which is configured to alter the goods in accordance with the instructions for altering the goods.

Abstract: A system and method for assisting a plurality of separate businesses is described. In one variation, the method includes establishing a plurality of customized Internet home pages corresponding to the plurality of separate value-adding businesses, and receiving a purchase order via at least one of the plurality of customized Internet home pages. Based on the purchase order, information is sent to a value-adding business and a request for unfinished goods is sent to at least one supplier of unfinished goods. The supplier provides the unfinished goods to the value-adding business to enable the business to alter the unfinished goods in accordance with the purchase order information.