WO2004017243A1 - A data collection, transfer and visualisation network - Google Patents

Abstract

A data collection, transfer and visualisation network comprising is disclosed which comprises a shipping agent (54), a supplier agent (53), a settlement agent (52), and a retail agent (51), wherein each of the shipping, supplier and settlement agents receive data of a distinct variety which is supplied to the retail agent (51) for visual output to a user interface (55). The present invention may be adapted for use in any number or variety of different applications, for example, a trading network or system and/or a product inventory and distribution network or system. The network and associated application described links hardware ( formed as a plurality of black box communication elements ) and software ( forming an inventory system), the output of which is communicated to a user interface (55) forming a data visualisation system (a dashboard).

Description

A DATA COLLECTION, TRANSFER AND VISUALISATION NETWORK

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to the provision of a network, and more specifically a data collection, transfer and visualisation network. This invention is further adapted to interface a variety of different industries on a global scale via a variety of different communication networks. Preferably the present invention may be adapted to provide a network which integrates the information technology systems of groups associated with a common chain of supply for goods or services. In alternative embodiments the present invention may be employed within a product distribution network.

BACKGROUND ART

Most businesses have implemented computer or information technology systems to help manage information important to their business operations. For example, in the case of an industry that supplies goods, such systems can keep track of the stock levels of finished goods as well as the raw materials used in the production of such goods. Information technology systems can also be used to automate or speed up financial transactions between associated businesses in a supply chain, eliminating the need for cash to physically change hands with the purchase of goods or services.

Computer systems are commonly designed and installed when a business sees a need for the system, and then maintained or modified over time as the businesses requirements change. Each business will have a customised information technology set-up depending on their own requirements and the age of the original system that the company started out with. Additional functionality may be built into or added onto most businesses existing computer systems as they grow over time.

This approach leads to incompatibilities with the information technology systems of the groups that the business deals with on a day to day basis. As most business computer systems are unique this can make it difficult for separate groups to integrate or interface their own separate information technology systems. This is a significant disadvantage if there is a desire to integrate the computer systems of two associated businesses in a chain of supply for particular goods or services. It is very difficult for the two separate businesses to integrate their historical networks because of the above approach used to implement such systems. In some instances it may be physically impossible for an outside party to access the functions or facilities provided through another businesses computer systems.

This leads to relatively slow and complicated procedures and transactions that must be completed over the chain of supply. Separate or individual transactions are required between each party in the chain, which will normally require manual work to be completed by each businesses staff members. Furthermore, this situation also slows down the flows of information between associated businesses in a chain of supply. In most instances staff of a retail business must normally telephone a manufacturer to ensure they have the correct levels of stock or the capacity available to fulfil an order before the order can be accepted.

This set of circumstances also causes additional complications for electronic commerce (E- commerce) retailers. These businesses would prefer, where possible, not to own the stock or goods that they vend. E-commerce businesses can in effect act as a sales agent for a manufacturer or supplier where the e-commerce operator handles the receipt of orders from and contact with customers, and the supplier or manufacturer handles the packaging and despatch of goods to the customer on the instructions of the retailer. In such instances the goods in question are the property of the manufacturer, meaning that a transaction with the manufacturer is required to facilitate the purchase process. This can be a problem for e- commerce retailers if a customer wishes to buy products from two or more separate manufacturers. In this case the customer must execute a separate funds transfer for every manufacturer which they wish to purchase goods from. As can be appreciated, this can form a significant inconvenience for the customer.

The alternative to this situation is for the electronic commerce retailer to own and store the stocks of goods that they are to vend themselves. However, this creates additional business costs to the retailer and also creates a risk that the retailer would not be able to sell all the stock that they hold. The normal implementation of information technology systems discussed above also contributes to consumer frustrations with regard to the amount of information available to them. Consumers are becoming more aware of certain issues with respect to goods or services, such as genetic engineering of foods or the use of sustainable resource management techniques in the production or delivery of goods and services. Commonly, all the information required by consumers in relation to their purchases cannot reliably be provided by retailers within a chain of supply. There may not be the infrastructural systems in place to allow a retailer to deliver information to a customer specific to such issues of interest.

One attempt to address this problem has been made by large multi-national corporations that aim to take control of and run all the businesses associated with a single chain of supply. Such businesses may be described as a vertically integrated chain of supply, where the groups involved are controlled by a single business entity. This allows a customer to be supplied with any information that they may desire in relation to particular goods or services. Due to the level of control provided by having a single entity run the chain of supply this also allows a single integrated information technology policy or network to be implemented. Such a network allows communication between all parties in the chain of supply, which can also be used to supply and distribute the information requested or required by consumers.

However, this approach cannot normally be implemented for most chains of supply. As large multi-national companies that have resources to the purchase and run an entire chain of supply are not common, most goods and services are supplied through businesses that are run independently from one another.

A generic system that improved information access for associated businesses within a chain of supply of goods or services would be of advantage. A system that also addressed any or all of the above problems would be an improvement over the prior art. Specifically a system or network which integrated associated businesses independent computer systems and which allowed for the automated processing of transactions related to goods and services ordering, delivery, and financial processing would be of advantage. Furthermore, the ability to apply the components of such a system to a variety of other computer networks, such a product or freight distribution network, would be of advantage.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these documents form part of the common general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any other country.

It is acknowledged that the term 'comprise' may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose of this specification, and unless otherwise noted, the term 'comprise' shall have an inclusive meaning - i.e. that it will be taken to mean an inclusion of not only the listed components it directly references, but also other non- specified components or elements. This rationale will also be used when the term 'comprised' or 'comprising' is used in relation to one or more steps in a method or process.

It is an object of the present invention to address the foregoing problems or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a data collection, transfer and visualisation network comprising: a shipping agent, a supplier agent, a settlement agent, a retail agent, wherein each of the shipping, supplier and settlement agents receive data of a distinct variety which is supplied to the retail agent for visual output.

The visual output may be provided via the Viscom dashboard which will be described below. In this specification the combination of a shipping agent, a supplier agent, a settlement agent, a retail agent, may be referred to as a Viscom Black Box network.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above, wherein the shipping agent, supplier agent, settlement agent and retail agent are able to communicate with each other.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above, wherein the shipping agent facilitates the obtaining and supply of data relating to the delivery (or location) of goods (or objects of inventory) and/or services such as delivery or pick-up timing, transit times and/or transportation costs, or alternatively facilitates the interfacing of user requests from a plurality of external suppliers.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above, wherein the supplier agent facilitates the obtaining and supply of data relating to the supply of goods and/or services such as stock levels, or alternatively facilitates the obtaining and supply of data relating to individual transportation units, such as ambient temperature and/or location.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above, wherein the settlement agent facilitates the obtaining and supply of financial clearing house type data from an independent computer system, or alternatively facilitates the obtaining and supply of data from external sources such as meteorological, traffic or industrial data.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above, wherein the retail agent is adapted to combine data from the shipping, supplier and settlement agents in order to produce the visual output. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above which forms an network for at least two entities involved in a chain of supply of goods and/or services,

each entity having its own independent computer system,

wherein each entity associated with the network includes a communication element adapted to allow communication between the independent computer systems of each entity.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above wherein at least one retailer and at least one supplier of goods and/or services is associated with the network.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above wherein the network includes or is associated with at least two suppliers of goods or services.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above wherein the network includes or is associated with at least one despatch agent.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above which includes means for displaying information.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network substantially as described above wherein the information displayed by the display means includes real time data.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of supplying goods and/or services using a data network substantially as described above, characterised by the steps of:

a) receiving a query regarding goods (or inventory) and/or services from a customer of a retailer associated with said network, and b) investigating the availability of the goods (or inventory) and/or services through the network and supplying information to the retailer and enquiring customer, and

c) completing a transaction between customer and retailer to allow the customer to purchase the goods and/or services,

d) issuing one or more instructions from the retailer (or user interface) to the entities involved in the chain of supply of the goods and/or services purchased using the network to ensure that goods are packaged and delivered to the customer and/ or services are supplied to the customer.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a data network for at least two entities involved in a chain of supply goods and/or services,

each entity having its own independent computer system,

where each entities independent computer system includes a communications element adapted to allow communication between the independent computer systems of each entity,

wherein the communication elements and the independent computer systems form an network adapted to provide a vertically integrated trading channel.

The present invention is adapted to provide a data collection, transfer and visualisation network (hereinafter to be referred to as "the network"). Such a network may be described or defined as any collection, configuration or association of computer technology that is used by a number of independent entities to manage information. A network as discussed throughout this specification may include existing computer systems or computer networks already used by a number of independent business entities who deal with one another to effect the supply of goods or services to consumers.

This specification seeks to illustrate the application of such a data collection, transfer and visualisation network in two applications, namely the global movement of goods and services and the global management and inventory of assets. Furthermore, the network and associated application described herein links hardware (formed as a plurality of black box communication elements) and software (forming an inventory system), the output of which is communicated to a user interface forming a data visualisation system (a dashboard).

The present invention has been designed to facilitate cross border systems management and has been further adapted to break down the historical barriers that exist within global networks and infrastructures. The technology described therefore provides numerous advantages to global network operators in both multinational and local operations.

For example, the present invention may provide means adapted to overcome language barriers associated with cross border transactions, for example, the present invention may facilitate the real time translation of languages, such as between Chinese and Russian or Cantonese to Mandarin, as required to facilitate a cross border trade or activity.

Furthermore, the present invention may also be adapted to facilitate multinational currency conversions required for settlement services, budgeting purposes and/or financial reporting. Therefore, the network herein described incorporates a financial management service (for use or application in any number of countries) with a standardised profit and loss model converted to a single currency.

The technology described herein may be adapted for use or application by any number or type of group or organisations including broadcast networks, such as satellite systems, television networks, internet users and telecommunication providers. Additionally, the present invention may have application in any number or variety of production or logistics markets including traders (such as e-commerce, m-commerce, mobile or personal digital assistant users), integrators (such as Fed-Ex, UPS, TNT), postal networks, port authorities and utilities (such as gas, water, power and/or oil).

Furthermore, the system described herein will explain and illustrate several applications to which the apparatus and method of the present invention may be applied, such apparatus including a data collection system (formed as a network of black box agents) implementing both hardware and software, a data transfer system (formed as an inventory system) which provides a data convergence, binding and mining function, and a data visualisation system (formed as a dashboard) being adapted to provide an animated visual representation customisable to end users.

Preferably the present invention may be adapted to allow for the integration of these separate or independent computer systems to allow for electronic transfers of information between all the entities involved with the network.

Preferably an entity associated with such a network may be any person, group, organisation, or business which is involved with a chain of supply for goods or services. Such entities may run existing independent computer systems that satisfy their own information technology requirements, but do not necessarily allow for electronic communication of the information they manage to other outside entities.

Reference throughout this specification will also be made to an entity or a person being associated with or being a member of the network. Association of a business or entity with a network may be made through an entities independent computer system being used to form a part of the network created using the present invention.

Preferably an independent computer system as discussed throughout this specification may be any arrangement or collection of computer technology or hardware operated by an entity to manage information. Independent computer systems in the main are unique to or customised by each business, group or entity depending on their particular requirements, and therefore do not easily allow for direct or free communication of the information they manage to other outside parties or other independent computer systems. Preferably the present invention is adapted to integrate together computer systems which are run, designed and/or modified independent of one another.

Reference throughout this specification will also be made to any entities associated with the network implemented being business organisations. However, those skilled in the art should appreciate that any other types of groups or individuals may also be classified as an entity which can use the network provided through the present invention. Those skilled in the art should appreciate discussion of business organisations only throughout this specification should in no way be seen as limiting.

Preferably the network implemented using the present invention may be adapted to integrate the independent computer systems of several businesses associated with a chain of supply for goods or services. The invention can be used to forge an alliance or grouping of businesses that are all associated with the production and delivery of particular goods and/or services to a consumer. The alliance of businesses forged may use such an network to improve the handling of all information associated with the production and delivery of goods or services. By providing such an alliance of associated businesses, this substantially increases the availability of information particular to each stage of the chain of supply to all other members of the network.

Preferably at least one independent retailer of goods or services and at least one independent supplier of goods or services may be associated with the network configured in accordance with the present invention. The involvement of both of these types of entities allows the network to manage the chain of supply for particular goods or services.

In a further preferred embodiment the network provided may also include associations with two or more suppliers of goods or services. Association with more than one supplier allows retailers within the network to vend a wider range of goods or services to their customers easily.

In a further preferred embodiment at least one despatch entity or agent may also be associated with the network implemented. A despatch agent may be used to physically transfer any goods sold by the retailer and produced by the supplier to the customer involved. By integrating a despatch agent into the network additional information relating to the final physical stage of the chain of supply can be made available to all other businesses associated with the network.

This configuration or implementation of the network allows for the provision of a vertically integrated trading channel or chain of supply. Information managed by each business within the trading channel or chain of supply can also be made available to other members of the same chain of supply or trading channel. Furthermore, information which normally would be inaccessible to other members of the chain of supply may also be delivered electronically using such an network. For example, with such a vertically integrated trading channel customers' queries with regard to the origin or quality of goods they are looking to purchase may be easily satisfied by retrieving the required information from other businesses who sourced original raw materials for the product with all data viewed visually.

Preferably to supply goods or services a retailer may receive an initial query from one of their customers regarding the product or service which they vend. Using the network constructed the retailer can investigate the availability of the goods or service and may also retrieve any further information requested by the customer from other businesses involved with the chain of supply or trading channel. This information may then be directly communicated back to the customer by the retailer, hopefully to encourage the customer to purchase.

Upon receipt of such a query the retailer may also optionally place a hold on particular stock items of a supplier or indicate to a supplier of services that they should reserve the capacity to supply a particular service to the retailer's customer. In this way the retailer can ensure that, if a customer does place an order, that the order can still be fulfilled by the appropriate supplier.

If the retailer does receive an order for goods or services the retailer can complete the financial transaction required to transfer ownership of particular goods or to pay for the supply of particular services to the customer. Furthermore, if the customer wishes to purchase goods or services from several suppliers also associated with the network a single transaction only may be required between customer and retailer.

Once this transaction has been completed the retailer can then take responsibility for ensuring that goods or services are delivered to the customer. The retailer may issue instructions to other businesses associated with the same network to ensure that the goods or services required are delivered. The retailer may also take responsibility for the payment of each of the businesses involved for the work they complete, the costs they incur and also for the purchase price of any goods or services. The network implemented may be used to transfer instructions or requests for information between each of the parties involved, and to automate the processing of information or transactions between businesses to effect the supply of goods or services.

For example, the network implemented may be used to replace a number of physical paper documents transferred between independent businesses in the chain of supply. Purchase orders, freight orders and accounts payable or receivable transactions may all be completed electronically and be fully automated between members of the same network. As the independent computer systems of each business may be integrated or interfaced with one another, routine or common transactions such as these can be fully automated.

Preferably the network implemented using the present invention may employ a communications element associated with each businesses independent computer system. Such a communications element may facilitate communications between each of the independent computer systems of businesses associated with the network. A communications element may provide outside or external access to information managed by one businesses computer system to another business.

This component may also, if required, provide restricted access to some information only present within a businesses computer system. A particular business associated with the network may still wish to keep confidential sensitive information managed by their own computer system. The communications element used in such an instance may therefore be adapted to provide access to a portion or sample only of the information managed by the independent computer system involved.

In a preferred embodiment the communications element used to interface each businesses independent computer systems may in effect implement a virtual private network for all the businesses involved. Any type of communications infrastructure or scheme may be used to facilitate communication between the computer systems involved such as for example direct telephone connection between each communications element or alternatively use of Internet transmission protocols and Internet service providers to manage flows of information. Preferably a plurality of communications elements may be deployed to implement the network required. These elements may be treated by each entity within the network as a "black box" which simply integrates their own independent computer system into a network to provide a vertically integrated data trading channel.

Preferably the software loaded into each communications element may provide additional security functions. For example in one embodiment all communications occurring between associated communications elements may be undertaken through secured sockets using transport layer security and a 128 bit encryption system. Furthermore, communications elements may include software programmed so as to only respond to communications or requests for information from other communications elements within the same network. If communications are received from any source apart from another communications element within the same network, this communication should be ignored.

In a further preferred embodiment the software or programmes loaded into and run by each communications element may be customised depending on the computer system the communications element is interfaced with. Each communication element in the network may have the same physical hardware and run using the same software operating system but the applications or software executed by the element may be determined by the information which the communications element is to handle or process. For example, in some embodiments a communications element may be loaded with a number of software modules that execute or implement a number of different functions depending on the information stored or managed by the associated independent computer system.

In a preferred embodiment a communications element may be formed from two sub-systems or components. The first of these systems may provide communications facilities to allow the element to communicate with other communications elements within the network provided. The second of these sub-systems may provide integration facilities or functions that allow the element to communicate with the independent computer system of one entity associated with the network to be formed. In a further preferred embodiment a communications element may be equipped with or include two network interface adapters well known in the art. The first of these adapters may provide a connection to the Internet or any other type of communications scheme if required, whereas the second of these interface adapters may provide a connection to associated independent computer system formed as an application protocol interface (API), such as a local area network. The provision of these two separate interface adapters will isolate the independent computer system from a direct connection to the Internet or any other external communication scheme employed.

Preferably the network implemented using the present invention may employ means for displaying information. Computer hardware loaded with appropriate software can be used to codify and arrange a variety of information formats, such as video, audio and text formats including interactive voice recognition (IVR) and animations, and translate such content into a form capable of being displayed to, and received by, users of the network.

The video format information with which the present invention works may be defined as any form of electrical signal containing timing and luminance information that, when displayed on an appropriate device, gives a visual image or representation of image sequences.

The video content information may incorporate image sequences of a kind similar to digital video, streaming video, flash animations, 3D animations or any moving picture expert group (mpeg) standard. Furthermore, the video format information may also incorporate still images of a kind similar to graphic image file (GIF), joint photographic expert group (JPEG), Macintosh picture (PICT), tagged image file (TIFF) or Imagepac file formats.

The audio format content with which the present invention works may be defined as any sequence of signals being within the acoustic range available to humans that, when generated by a computer system provides an audibly recognised output, thereby providing interactive voice communications.

The text format content with which the present invention works may be defined as any sequence of human readable characters that can be encoded into a computer readable format. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that the form and scope of the video format information, the audio format information and the text format information may vary according to the requirements of users of the network.

Such a display means may be formed as, or incorporate, a series of graphical components preferably designed as panel elements. A panel may be adapted to form a series of indicators also adapted to display or mosaic individual video/animation frames and display static scenes of the video/animation information, and renderings of the audio and /or text information to be displayed.

In a further preferred embodiment the information displayed by the display means may include real time data. The display means of the present invention may be adapted to display the real time data of a single or several businesses associated with a chain of supply for goods and or services through a viewer (formed as a dashboard) of animated data bound to be viewed specific to the user.

In addition, the display means may be further adapted to display real time information pertaining to the operations currently being undertaken within an individual business or between businesses associated with a supply chain. Such real time data may be presented in a variety of formats on the indicators provided by the display means and may be rendered as a series of metrics or performance parameters adapted to reflect the performance of the business or businesses.

Examples of such business parameters include, but are not limited to, current inventory stock levels, current order allocations of an inventory, details of incoming funds transactions and details of the incoming receipt of purchase orders, inventory cost/location, financial data, performance data, temperature data, labour cost, essential P & L, asset register, reporting for normal management use. This data is delivered in real time and is live actual data derived from the above mentioned sources.

Each member of a supply chain and/or business may be provided with access to the indicators pertaining to that supply chain and/or enterprise. As each transaction in a chain of supply is completed the appropriate indicator pertaining to a given performance parameter or metric may be updated to reflect its change in status.

Real time data may be supplied to the display indicators by a variety of different network services including digital wireless or cellular technologies, such as Code Division Multiple Access CDMA, General Packet Radio Services GPRS and/or messaging systems (such as SMS), radio frequency, interactive voice recognition, multiple messaging systems, large area networks, wide area networks, global area networks and receiver networks.

Such a display means provides associated businesses with the real time data necessary to facilitate informed commercial decisions regarding input into the enterprise or supply chain. Furthermore, the provision of the display means as a series of updatable display indicators will allow businesses associated with a chain of supply to monitor their own performance.

Furthermore, such display indicators may preferably be configurable to display information appropriate to a range of different businesses, or departments or divisions within a business able to be tailored to independently suit the needs of others operating within the network or chain of supply.

A network as discussed above may provide many advantages over the existing prior art.

In case of electronic commerce retailers there is no need for the retailer to own and store the stock of goods which they are in the business of vending. Through such an network the retailer also has a degree of control of the availability of goods and also significantly more information with regard to the source or quality of goods which they are vending.

A retailer may also supply a wide range of goods or services from numerous suppliers while still only requiring a single transaction with a customer if goods or services from two or more suppliers are required. The network provided can be used to ensure each supplier involved is compensated for goods or services delivered while simplifying the transactions with which the customer is involved with. By providing such an network day to day information transfers and transactions between associated businesses may potentially be fully automated. Electronic instructions or transmissions may be used to replace physical documentation, thereby reducing the manual work of a businesses staff.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description that is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 shows a block schematic diagram of entities involved and processes completed using an network as configured in accordance with a preferred embodiment.

Figure 2 shows a block schematic diagram of an network as configured in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, and ;

Figure 3 shows a block schematic diagram of a communications scheme employed by the network of Figure 2, and

Figure 4 shows a block schematic diagram of an network illustrating separate software modules or components run by each of the communications elements or "black boxes" within the network; and

Figure 5 shows a flow diagram of consecutive processes executed by the software modules shown with respect to Figure 4, during the purchase and supply of a product.

Figure 6 shows a graphical representation of the indicators displayed utilising the display means employed in accordance with a preferred embodiment.

Figure 7 shows a graphical representation of the indicators displayed utilising the display means employed in accordance with a further preferred embodiment. Figure 8 shows a schematic of the processes executed by the software modules shown with respect to Figure 2 in a product distribution application.

Figure 9 shows a graphical representation of a user interface configured to display information to users in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 10 shows a graphical representation of a user interface configured to display location information to users at different levels of granularity.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Figures 1 through 5 illustrate how a network may be formed and also the processes which may be executed and information flows which may be facilitated using such a network. The drawings supplied show an instance where a network is implemented by a commercial entity named Viscom, where Viscom supplies and maintains a number of communications elements used to implement the network used. Each of the communications elements are described as communications agents or Viscom "black boxes" as they facilitate communications within the network provided without each entity associated with the network needing a detailed knowledge of the operation of the communications elements or "black boxes".

Figure 1 shows a block schematic diagram of information flows and a physical product transfer that may be made using a network configured in accordance with the present invention.

In the instance shown communication links are provided between customer 1 and Internet content provider, in this embodiment shown in the form of an entity called virtual spectator 2, the software development and maintenance agency 3, financial clearing house 4, retail agent 5 and a plurality of shipping agents 6.

Through its own computer system the retail agent 5 may display a number of online shop fronts 7 for a plurality of products it supplies. The content provided by each storefront 7 may also be controlled by the associated commercial entities 8 (in any country) responsible for the production and marketing of products involved. Each of these entities may be connected to the network (supply agents) provided through a black box or communications element 9. For example the entities shown with respect to Nike™ in Figure 2 may be Nike Corporation marketing arm and warehousing or manufacturing arm who have their own independent computer systems linked into the network provided through a communications element 9. In turn the retail agent 5 involved may also be provided with a black box 9 to integrate its own independent computer system with those of the suppliers involved. The supply agent's black box 9 may also implement a "virtual inventory" system which will provide the retail agents with information regarding the stocks of products held by each of the suppliers involved. This information may then be communicated back to the customer 1 who expresses an interest in a particular line of stock supplied by a particular manufacturer viewed graphically on a customised viewer (formed as a dashboard).

If the customer 1 indicates they wish to buy a particular product from a supplier communications may be sent to the clearing house 4 to facilitate a transfer of funds to pay for the goods to be purchased. Through the black boxes 9 provided and the information technology implemented the retail agent may then send instructions to each of the suppliers which the customer is to purchase product from advising them that one of their items of stock should be picked up and packaged ready for collection and delivery to the customer. Communications links through the network to shipping agent 6 may also be used by the retail agent to despatch instructions for the pickup and delivery of the product or products to the customer 1.

Throughout all steps in this process, information pertaining to the operations currently being completed may be available to all members of the network. Any information required may also be forwarded back to the customer 1 to confirm that the order is being processed and give them any additional information they require with respect to the supply of their purchase. All agents have the ability to have tailored viewers (formed as dashboards) showing data trade behaviour and trend profiles.

Figure 2 shows a block schematic diagram of components used to form an network 1 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In the situation shown the members or entities associated with the network are a retailer, financial clearing house, a plurality of product manufacturers, and a plurality of freight or despatch providers. Each of these entities also operates its own independent computer system 12 that forms part of the network 11. Connected to each independent computer system 12 is a communications element, agent, or black box 13. As discussed above each of the black boxes or agents may be provided by a company known as Viscom, which specialises in the implementation and maintenance of the network formed. Each agent 13 has a connection 14 application protocol interface (API) to the independent computer system 12 of each entity involved with the network, as well as additional communication links into the Internet 15. Each of the agents 13 may transfer information between one another over the Internet 15 to in effect create a virtual private computer network (VPN) for all of the entities involved.

Agents 13 preferably are formed from additional computer or computer system loaded with software which is capable of extracting and supplying information to and from each independent computer system 12 such that data collected is unique to each agent relationship while also designed to allow for remote diagnostic management (RDM) by a network manager or operator. Furthermore, the agents 13 may be designed so as to provide an additional layer of isolation similar to a normal firewall system to prevent unauthorised access or virus attacks on each entities independent computer system 12.

Figure 3 shows a block schematic diagram of the communications scheme used by the network shown with respect to Figure 2. As can be seen from Figure 2, only a single communications connection 14 is provided between each of the Viscom communications elements or agents 13 and the independent computer systems 12 of each entity involved. In turn each agent 13 includes an Internet connection 15 over which information is transferred and a request by each of the entities involved with the network.

This configuration of the network provided eliminates any communication problems present with the different configurations or designs of each independent computer system 2. Each system 12 may use any of a range of operating systems (and physically view behaviour occurrence live through the connection to agent 13), databases or other software applications and yet with provision of an agent 13 still be able to supply or request information from other independent computer systems. Figure 4 shows a block schematic diagram of a number of black boxes or communications elements 23 which may be implemented in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention. As shown with respect of Figure 4 each of these black boxes 23 may implement a virtual private network 24 integrating the independent computer systems of each entity involved with the network to be formed.

Each black box or agent 23 may in turn include a number of different processing modules 25 depending on the information that each agent is to process or manage. Preferably each module 25 may be implemented through software or computer code loaded into hardware provided to implement each agent 23. Each software module might take responsibility for particular processing functions required to process the information or instructions associated with the supply of a product or products to a customer. Furthermore, the software modules provided may also provide interfaces or access to other computer systems or sub-systems of the independent computer network associated with each entity involved. Such software modules may be implemented to provide additional information to other entities associated within the network where this information is not directly related to the supply of product but may still be of interest to other members of the network.

For example, in the embodiment shown the shipping agent/black box 23 may include software modules which implement a billing system, the issue of self billing payments, financial credit transactions and which also handle marketing information sourced from the shipping entities own independent computer system. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that any number and different types of sub-systems or additional modules may be implemented within each agent or black box depending on the requirements of the entities involved with the network. A particular module may be provided in a black box or communications element if the need is found to share or manipulate a particular category or type of information using the network. Those skilled in the art should appreciate the examples provided with respect to Figure 4 should in no way be seen as limiting.

Figure 5 shows a number of processes or steps executed using the network discussed above to supply a product to a customer. In each instance the independent computer systems 32 of a number of entities associated with the network are linked or integrated together through a number of communications elements or black boxes 33.

In the first of the processes to be completed the retailer's black box will begin the creation of a sales order by checking the virtual shopping card of the customer then issuing instructions to the appropriate manufacturer to hold the stock of interest for the customer. Next a calculation will be made of the total price for the purchase which will then be supplied to the customer.

Once the customer has confirmed they wish to complete a purchase via, for example, a credit card the black box system 33 can be used to forward appropriate information to a clearing house's independent computer system 32 to ensure that the customer has credit available, and to create an invoice for the purchase to be completed.

Once the clearing house's computer system has advised that the purchase should proceed the retailer's black box system may create a purchase order and issue same via the network and black boxes 33 to all other parties involved with the supply of the goods of interest.

Next, the black box or communications element 33 associated with the manufacturer of the product will interface with the manufacturer's own independent computer system to create an order for the products involved and to issue instructions to the manufacturer's staff to pick and pack the products involved ready for collection and delivery.

At this stage the software modules incorporated within the retailer's black box 33 may also create a freight order for the products to be delivered. The freight order created may then be despatched via the network to the independent computer system 32 of a freight provider. The despatch of the freight order will then trigger the pickup and delivery of the product or products involved by the freight provider's staff.

Once the product required has been delivered the retailer's back box or communications element 32 may next create payment authorisations for the manufacturer and freight providers involved, and then issue these orders to ensure that both entities are paid for the products issued or work completed. The last step in the process may be executed again by the retailer's black box system to update its own financial records and any historical records maintained in relation to the supply and delivery of products using the network. All transaction data and/or location data will be viewed by the customer and an integrated system for viewing data (formed as a dashboard).

An example of the steps or actions completed to execute the sale of a product to a customer using the network will be discussed. Again information is communicated between the independent computer systems of a retailer, financial clearinghouse or settlement agent, manufacturer or supplier and a shipping or freighting agent.

The situation to be illustrated in this discussion related to the purchase of a computer graphics card. A potential customer wishing to purchase such a card may actually express an interest in purchasing such a product, and follow Internet links provided by other Internet content providers, to the Internet store front of the retail agent. The storefront may be designed and presented using standard web authoring techniques to display to the customer a list of graphics cards available for purchase.

The retail agent's website uses a shopping card ordering model system which will allow the potential customer to add the graphics card they select to a virtual shopping cart. Once a customer adds a product to the shopping card the retail agent will use the network shown with respect to the prior figures to contact the agent or black box associated with a supplier's computer system. At this point the retailer's computer system will instruct the supplier's computer system to reserve a unit of stock for the graphic card selected by the customer.

Next, the retailer's computer system calculates the cost of the purchase of the graphics card for the customer. Calculations of customs duty, tax, freight costs, and the original purchase costs will be made and displayed to the customer with a request they confirm that they still wish to purchase the card.

Once a valid order has been accepted from a customer the retail agent will then instigate a number of transactions to complete the purchase and supply of the graphics card. The retail agent will first generate an electronic or a virtual receivables order and request funds from the customer from the settlement agent. Once these funds have been transferred to cover the purchase and supply of the card the retail agent will then generate an electronic purchase order for the card and supply this order to the supplier.

Upon receipt of the virtual purchase order the supplier's computer system will issue instructions indicating to the supplier's staff that the graphics card selected should be retrieved from storage and packed ready for shipping. Once these tasks have been completed the supplier's computer system and agent will communicate back to the retail agent that the graphics card is ready for delivery. At this stage the supplier's computer system will also indicate to the retailer's computer system the new level of stock available for the particular graphics card involved.

Next, the retail agent will send a virtual freight order to the independent computer system of the shipping agent. This order will include all the information required by the shipping agent to pick up and deliver the card required. Upon receipt of this order the shipping agent's computer system will issue instructions to the shipping agent's staff to collect and deliver the graphics card from the supplier to the original customer of the retailer. The shipping agent's computer system will then send a confirmation message to the retail agent's computer system once the card required has been delivered.

Once the retailer's computer system has been advised that the card required has been delivered it will generate a number of virtual payables orders for transmission to the supplier and shipping agent's computer systems. The transmission of these orders ensures that both the supplier and shipping agent are paid for the goods or services which they provided. The final or last step of the supply process may be completed by the retailer's computer system updating a database of statistics it holds to record details that the transaction is completed.

As can be appreciated by those skilled in the art the majority of the requests for information and transactions between all the entities involved in the chain of supply described can be completed electronically. Where the physical transportation of products is required the computer systems involved may issue instructions to staff employed by each entity to complete the work required.

As can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, an information technology as discussed above may be used to implement a virtual inventory system and also provide "virtual warehousing" functionality. Through the network provided a retailer or any other entity associated with the network may have access to stock level information of any manufacturer involved. Through the computerised delivery of such information, retailers can be provided with fast and convenient access to the information they require to ensure that an order from a customer can immediately be fulfilled.

Furthermore, with access to the information which may be supplied through the network and the processes which may be executed by same this eliminates the need for a retailer to hold large amounts of stock in the products that they vend. This advantage may be described as providing virtual warehousing functionality for an electronic commerce retailer who will in effect have the same amount of control over stored items of manufacturer's stock as if they warehoused this stock themselves. This will lead to significant advantages to retailers who no longer need to incur the costs associated with purchasing and holding the stock they vend nor the costs associated with storing and securing this stock.

Figure 6 shows a graphical representation (which performs a data visualisation function) of the display indicators employed in accordance with a preferred embodiment. This graphical representation is known as a dashboard.

The indicators shown are formed as graphical panel elements which are adapted to arrange a variety of information formats, such as video, audio and text formats, and translate such content into a form capable of being displayed to, and received by, suppliers utilising the network. All black box relationships will have unique and customised dashboards which have functionality adapted to display specific and relevant data to be visualised.

All black box relationships will have unique customised Dash Boards enabling specific and relevant data to be visualised.

Included are a series of indicators 40 which have been configured for use by a supplier of a good or service within the chain of supply. The indicators 40 as illustrated in figure 6 have been configured by the display means according to one of a number of possible configurations and may be located on the display 39 (forming a dashboard) of any specified supplier. Shown is indicator 41 which forms an alarms indicator which is adapted to generate an alarm (such as a colour change, message broadcast) when inventory stock levels reach a certain level. The alarm module in the black box will automatically send alerts via multiple messaging systems, simple messaging systems, e-mail, text or other means to signal change in status and therefore the action required to be taken.

Also shown is stock levels indicator 42 which displays both a numerical and graphical indication of stock holdings and forecasted usage. Allocations indicator 43 shows current stock holdings with a "top up" facility adapted to allow suppliers to increase the current stock holdings. The safety stock indicator 44 indicates the maximum and minimum stock levels to be held. The sales indicator 45 displays a real time sales report.

Figure 7 shows a graphical representation (known as Data Visualisation) of the display indicators (known as the Dash Board) employed in accordance with a further preferred embodiment.

Included are indicators 46 which have been configured for use by a retailer or wholesaler of a good or service within the chain of supply. The indicators 46 illustrated include those indicators displayed with respect to figure 7 with the addition of an enable/disable indicator 47 which indicates when an item is removed from sale.

The display indicators illustrated with respect to figures 6 and 7 can be configured for a specific purpose within a business to allow divisions within the business to share information for supporting the decision making process. For example, such indicators may be adapted to display the raw materials stock holdings prior to finished goods manufacture, the location of stock within the business, raise alerts when the expected purchased materials are shipped late and display current work centre activities within the manufacturing process.

Figure 8 shows a schematic of the processes executed by the software modules shown with respect to Figure 1-7 in a product distribution network 50. The implementation of the present invention to facilitate the operation of a product distribution network 50 represents another of a variety of alternative applications to which the present invention may be applied. Shown in Figure 8 are a number of black boxes or communications elements including black box or retail agent 51 , black box or settlement agent 52, black box or supplier agent 53 and black box or shipping agent 54.

Each of these black boxes 51 , 52, 53 and 54 are adapted to integrate the independent computer systems of a variety of different entities which exist within the product distribution network.

Like the black boxes discussed with respect to Figure 2 each black box 51 , 52, 53 and 54 includes the computer processing modules and capabilities required to process the information necessary to perform their respective functions. Furthermore, the distribution network 50 of the present embodiment may be implemented via a process of hardware and software co- design in order to facilitate the collection and transportation of information between black boxes 51 , 52, 53 and 54. Such an implementation may also facilitate the efficient collection, storage and retrieval of data and/or information within the distribution network.

Additionally, the transportation of information throughout the distribution network may be in a secure manner, preferably utilising secure socket transportation. Black boxes 51 , 52, 53 and 54 may similarly be implemented via a peer-to-peer secure socket protocol which is adapted to facilitate asynchronous communications between black boxed employed. The provision of such asynchronous communication will enable each black box to send data to another black box such that the receiving black box may qualify data receipt, qualify data received and transmit confirmation. The original sending black box may then be adapted to receive such confirmations under an asynchronous communications protocol.

The software and hardware co-design used in the implementation of the system of black boxes also enables the product distribution network to be implemented to form any number of a variety of communications topologies, including a Local Area Network, a Wide Area Network, a Global or Satellite Area Network. Furthermore, the system of black boxes may be implemented via any number of different Internet communications protocols including Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) or Transmission Control Protocol (TCP). Similarly, communications between black boxes may be facilitated by a variety of mobile, cellular and/or wireless technologies including Simple Messaging Services, Radio Frequency Relay, Code Division Multiple Access and/or General Packet Radio Services.

Each black box 51 , 52, 53 and 54 takes responsibility for particular aspects or functions required to facilitate a particular aspect or role associated with a product distribution network.

Each black box 51 , 52, 53 and 54 may be configured for remote access such that software processes and data may be readily viewed within a two way communications paradigm. Such two way communications may also facilitate the implementation of system and program diagnostics.

Furthermore, the black boxes 51 , 52, 53 and 54 provided are adapted to interface with a variety of external information sources which are adapted to supply the product distribution network with information necessary for its effective operation.

In the embodiment shown the black box 51 provides a data collection "hub" which is adapted to interface and network other black boxes within the product distribution network. In particular, black box 51 is synchronised with all other black boxes to provide the real time delivery of information to a user interface 55 including geographic data, mapping data, weather and traffic data, efficiency data and location data.

The user interface 55 (forming a dashboard) may employ the display indicators utilised with respect to Figures 6 and 7 above. Computer hardware loaded with appropriate software can be used to codify and arrange a variety of information formats delivered from black box 51 into a form capable of being displayed to, customised and received by users of the product distribution network.

Furthermore, the user interface 55 is adapted to display selected and filtered data from the network of black boxes 51 , 52, 53 and 54 employed in conjunction with the present invention. The interface 55 may be customisable and configured to suit the needs of users 56 and may be adapted to compile a visual display of the information sourced via the network of black boxes 51 , 52, 53 and 54. Black box 51 is adapted to request, merge and compile data from sources internal to and external to the product distribution network. Internally sourced data may include operational, billing, taxation, financial, marketing, distribution and inventory data and externally sourced data including data derived from weather and traffic reports.

The internal data described above may be sourced from a number of individual software modules 58 which are adapted to keep the internal data of the product distribution network current and updated in real time. The merging and compiling of the internal data sourced may be completed by software module 57 which acts as central data hub for the individual software modules 58.

Once such internal data has been compiled by software module 57 it may then be delivered to black box 51 prior to being customised as necessary and transmitted to the user interface 55 for viewing by users 56, including operations controllers.

Similarly, external data may be sourced from external sources 59 by black box 52. The external data may include data which will facilitate the smooth operation of the product distribution network, such as meteorological data, physical data, traffic information (rail, road, air and sea), industrial data, financial data, procurement data, sales and marketing data, manufacturing data and operational data. The gathering and compilation of external data via black box 52 is synchronised with the data compiled and generated by black boxes 51 , 53 and 54 to enable the provision of real time information throughout the product distribution network.

Additional information may be sourced from transportation units 60 serving within the product distribution network 50. In the instance shown the units 60 include an aeroplane, a train, a truck and a shipping vessel and are depicted within Figure 8 to represent that products distributed within the product distribution network 50 may be done so via carriers typically associated with air, rail, road and/or sea transportation or the inventory at a higher level could be the physical carrier asset, truck, train, ship or plane, as the functionality is the same although inventory assets may change.

Associated with the product distribution network are a plurality of black box's 53 which are configured to receive and transmit data pertaining to the transportation units 60. In one embodiment such black boxes 53 may be located within a transportation unit 60 to facilitate the compilation and transmission of real time data pertaining to the individual transportation unit within which the black box 53 has been positioned thus giving stock and asset location data in real time to other black box agents live.

For example, black box 53 may be adapted to receive data including transportation unit location data, state monitoring data (for example, speed and temperature of the transportation unit), inventory data and stock allocations.

Data may be transmitted from the transportation unit (by the driver or other person associated with the transportation unit) to the black box 53 via any one of variety of different communications devices, such as a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) 61 , mobile phone 62 or other device. The black box's 53 and the transportation units 60 may include appropriate interfaces to ensure that data inputted to the communication devices 61 or 62 is capable of being transmitted to the black boxes 53 located within the transportation units 60.

Black box 54 facilitates the transmission of data compiled by black box 53 (via black box 51 ) to the user interface 55. Such data may preferably be transmitted from the black box 53 to black box 54 via a mobile or satellite network system 63. Accordingly, black boxes 53 and 54 may be fitted with appropriate transmission and receiving means to facilitate such data flows within the product distribution network 50.

Furthermore, black box 54 may facilitate two way communications between users of the product distribution network 50, thereby allowing the processing of queries between the end users of the product distribution network 50 (being viewers of the user interface 55) and operators of the transportation units 60. Such queries may be direction finding and/or routing queries.

Those skilled in the art should appreciate that any number and different types of black boxes or additional modules may be implemented within the product distribution network depending on the requirements of the network. Those skilled in the art should appreciate the example provided with respect to Figure 9 should in no way be seen as limiting. A product distribution network configured utilising the black boxes 51 , 52, 53 and 54 provided in accordance with the present invention will facilitate the provision of real time information to users of and/or contributors to the operation of the data collection network.

Figure 9 shows a graphical representation of a user interface configured to display information to users in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

The display shown with respect to figure 9 is adapted to arrange information derived via the network of black boxes shown with respect to Figure 8. Such information derived may be in received a variety of formats, including video, audio and text formats, and may be capable of being displayed to, and received by, end users (such as control room operators) of the product distribution network. This interface can be animation, voice recognition, touch screen, keyboard controlled and need not be limited in use or application.

In the example shown, the user interface is providing an on-screen real time visual representation of a specific task or job being conducted within the framework of the product distribution network. In the instance shown a transportation unit formed as a truck is depicted. Associated with the transportation unit are a number of information fields pertaining to the job or task being completed. For example, the driver of the truck is depicted as are various information fields associated with the driver, such as the drivers personal and contact details. Also shown in the visual representation are information fields pertaining to the truck and the cargo being delivered, including truck weight and volume and cargo weight, origin and destination. Information fields pertaining to the destination location may also be depicted. This shows the black box agent data collected being displayed live from the retail agent through to the dashboard. It combines operational, location, vehicle state monitoring and financial data . with alarms built in for change notification.

To facilitate location tracking of the truck a positioning system is utilised which is capable of indicating on a map and in real time the actual location of the truck. In the instance shown a map of the north island of New Zealand is depicted, and the location of the truck on the map may be shown. Additionally, the location on the map to which products being delivered may also be depicted. Figure 10 shows a graphical representation of a user interface (formed as a dashboard) configured to display location information to users at different levels of granularity. Shown in Figure 10 are a variety of graphical representations corresponding to the map representation given with respect Figure 10. In particular, points on the map featured in Figure 10 have been "zoomed" to render different location perspectives according to the needs of a certain user. Thus sub-map's 70, 71 , 72 and 73 illustrate the varying degrees of granularity that end users of the product distribution network may "zoom" to locate, for example, the city, suburb and street location of a transportation unit operating within the product distribution network. The above objects being achieved through the collection of data from the network of black box agents sending real time data to the user interface (dashboard).

The present invention may also provide major advantages with respect to the amount of information available to outside parties through a particular businesses independent computer system. The present invention may be used to integrate the computer systems of independent businesses together to any desired level with a high degree of security and reliability. Furthermore, the systems provided can operate at relatively high speed and may also be scaled up or down in size and complexity depending on the requirements of members of the network.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A data collection, transfer and visualisation network comprising network comprising: a shipping agent, a supplier agent, a settlement agent, and a retail agent,

wherein each of the shipping, supplier and settlement agents receive data of a distinct variety which is supplied to the retail agent for visual output.

2. A network as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the shipping agent, supplier agent, settlement agent and retail agent are able to communicate asynchronously with each other.

3. A network as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the shipping agent facilitates the obtaining and supply of data relating to the delivery of goods and/or services or facilitates the interfacing of user requests from a plurality of external suppliers.

4. A network as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the supplier agent facilitates the obtaining and supply of data relating to the supply of goods and/or services or facilitates the obtaining and supply of data relating to stock, assets and/or individual transportation units.

5. A network as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the settlement agent facilitates the obtaining and supply of financial clearing house type data from an independent computer system, or facilitates the obtaining and supply of data from a variety of external sources.

6. A network as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the retail agent is adapted to combine data from the shipping, supplier and settlement agents in order to produce said visual output.

7. A network as claimed in any one of the preceding claims which forms an network for at least two entities involved in a chain of supply of goods and/or services, wherein each entity incorporates at least one independent computer system and at least one communication element, where the communication element is adapted to facilitate communication between the independent computer systems of each entity.

8. A network as claimed in claim 7, wherein at least one retailer and at least one supplier of goods and/or services is associated with the network.

9. A network as claimed in claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the network includes or is associated with at least two suppliers of goods or services.

10. A network as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein each entity is adapted to supply goods and/or services in a chain of supply of goods and/or services.

11. A network as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 10, which is adapted to integrate the independent computer systems of the entities associated with a chain of supply for goods or services.

12. A network as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 11 , wherein the communication elements are adapted to facilitate communication between each of the independent computer systems of the entities.

13. A network as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the communications elements provides access to information only present within an entities computer system.

14. A network as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the communications elements are adapted to interface the independent computer systems of each entity as a virtual private network.

15. A network as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 14, wherein the communication elements are formed by two components, wherein a first component is adapted to provide communication facilities to allow the communication elements to communicate with other communication elements, and the second component is adapted to facilitate communication between the independent computer systems associated with each entity.

16. A network as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 15, which is adapted to provide a vertically integrated data trading channel or global inventory management system..

17. A network as claimed in claim 16, wherein the information managed by each entity within the trading channel or chain of supply is also made available to other members of the same trading channel providing a real time and live view of the data collected.

18. A network as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 17, which is adapted to facilitate the electronic transfer of information between entities.

19. A network as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 18, which is adapted to automate the processing of information or transactions between entities.

20. A network as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, which includes a means for displaying said visual output.

21. A network as claimed in claim 20, wherein the information displayed by the display means includes real time data.

22. A network as claimed in claim 20 or claim 21 , wherein the display means is adapted to display video, audio and/or text format or other information.

23. A network as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the display means is formed as a series of graphical panel elements on a computer screen.

24. A network as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the panel elements are adapted to form a series of indicators.

25. A network as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 24, wherein the real time data is rendered on the display indicators as a series of performance parameters.

26. A network as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein the performance parameters are adapted to reflect the performance of the entities within a trading channel which are customised to specific user needs.

27. A method of supplying stock/inventory using a network comprising the steps of: (i) receiving a query regarding goods and/or stock and/or inventory and/or services from a supplier or user associated with said network,

(ii) investigating the availability, location or cost of the goods and/or stock/inventory and/or services through the network and supplying information to the user and/or querying customer,

(iii) completing a transaction between querying customer and user to allow the customer to purchase the goods and/or services, and

(iv) issuing one or more instructions from the retailer to the entities involved in the chain of supply of the goods and/or services purchased using the network to ensure that goods are packaged and delivered to the customer and/or services are supplied to the customer.

28. A network as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the retail agent polls the other agents for data at predetermined intervals.

29. A network as claimed in claim 28, wherein the polling frequency is set by a user.

30. A network as claimed in claim 29, wherein the polling frequency is determined by the type of data.

31. A network as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying drawings and/or examples.

32. A network as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompany drawings and/or examples.