Methods and apparatus for anonymously requesting bids from a...

Details Methods and apparatus for anonymously requesting bids from a... Methods and apparatus for anonymously requesting bids from a...

2005-01-07

2008-08-26

Smith, Jeffrey A. (Department: 3625)

Data processing: financial, business practice, management, or co

Automated electrical financial or business practice or...

Electronic shopping

Reexamination Certificate

active

07418410

ABSTRACT:
Methods and apparatus to anonymously request bids from a geographically centered plurality of vendors. The methods and apparatus enable a plurality of vendors to enter line card information (e.g., part numbers) and geographical information (e.g., zip codes) into a central database via a web page. Customers may then search for vendors in their area. The process automatically expands the geographical search area until a customer determined quantity of vendors are found. An anonymous e-mail message (i.e., a message not disclosing customer identity) is then sent to each selected vendor. The e-mail message preferably includes a hyperlink to a web page related to the customer request. Interested vendors may then supply vendor related information (e.g., price and delivery). If the customer locates a vendor able to meet the customer's needs, the customer may select the vendor to complete the purchase via the broker server.

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