Abstract: A comprehensive and flexible method for predicting field service head count requirements for optimized field delivery is disclosed. The headcount model predicts how many field service resources (be they internal resources or partner resources) are needed both for a particular timeframe and at a particular location. E.g., the resources can be predicted by quarter and as well as by geographic location (e.g., a city or region in the USA).

Abstract: A control center is provided that enables the monitoring of the delivery of parts and/or technicians to a customer's location to correct a problem. The control center is provided with a monitoring tool that enables representatives of one or more organizations to act, in a coordinated fashion, to solve the problem encountered by the customer. The monitoring tool is provided with communications facilities that enable the representatives to acquire and maintain contact with one another and/or with the customer. Real-time data analysis is provided to the monitoring tool for display to the representatives. The real-time data can be used to ensure compliance with contractual obligations, and to ensure the quality of services provided to the customer. Moreover, the control center, because of its communications and real-time data synthesis capabilities, enables a different approach to solving customer problems by organizing resources in a different and more streamlined manner.