Procurement management system, computer program of procurement management system and control method of procurement management system

Abstract

To prevent increase of a burden on a user, when ordering products to an alternative supplier.SOLUTION: A procurement management system 10 comprises: determination means 23G determining whether or not an allocation condition that a required quantity of a good is to be allocated to two or more suppliers is satisfied; selection means 23B selecting the two or more suppliers as a supply supplier group when the allocation condition is satisfied; order means 23D ordering the products from the selected supply supplier group; and a presentation means presentation unit 23H presenting, to a user, sales order information corresponding to the order of the products. If an inhibiting condition that inhibits supply of the products by a due date has occurred, the selection means selects an alternative supplier, The order means orders, from the alternative supplier, the products in a quantity which has been ordered from the inhibited supplier. The presentation means maintains the presentation of the sales order information as-is if a change condition of the sales order information is not satisfied, and presents a change in the sales order information to the user if the change condition of the sales order information is satisfied.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a procurement management system that selects two or more suppliers from a plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group, a computer program for the procurement management system, and a control method for the procurement management system. [Background technology]

[0002] As a procurement-related technology, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a procurement network in which a distributor pools its inventory with other distributors using the same procurement network. Specifically, a distributor requests that at least a portion of its inventory of an item be pooled into a common inventory pool. Then, if the item is determined to be of the same type or quality as the same item pooled by the other distributors, the distributor's inventory is pooled into the common inventory pool. An inventory credit is then provided to the distributor of the pooled inventory.

[0003] Patent Document 2 also discloses a supply chain design plan generation unit that generates a supply chain design plan for a specified item. Specifically, the supply chain design plan generation unit extracts records that match the items to be produced or procured. The supply chain design plan generation unit then extracts multiple factories and multiple suppliers corresponding to the records. After that, the supply chain design plan generation unit generates multiple patterns of supply chain design plans including the extracted factory and multiple patterns of supply chain design plans including the extracted supplier. Furthermore, the supply chain design plan generation unit evaluates whether the generated supply chain design plans can meet the delivery deadline, and excludes design plans that cannot meet the deadline from the supply chain design plans. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2014-503924 [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2021-5186 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] A user may wish to purchase a quantity of an item that exceeds the supply amount of the item that a supplier can supply. In this case, if the user orders a quantity of an item that exceeds the supply amount, the period from the order to the delivery of the item becomes longer. In other words, the supplier needs more time than the normal delivery time to supply a quantity of an item that exceeds the supply amount. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A procurement management system according to one aspect of the present invention includes an acquisition means for acquiring request conditions including a requested quantity and delivery date of an item requested by a user, and supply conditions including a supply amount of the item from each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item, a determination means for determining whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more of the plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the request conditions and the supply conditions, a selection means for selecting one supplier from the plurality of suppliers if the allocation condition is not satisfied, and for selecting two or more suppliers from the plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group if the allocation condition is satisfied, an ordering means for ordering the item from the one selected supplier or the selected supply supplier group, and an ordering means for sending an order for the item to the user. and a presentation means for presenting sales order information corresponding to the quantity of the goods ordered from the failed supplier when an inhibiting condition occurs that inhibits the supply of the goods by the delivery date for the failed supplier, the selection means selects from the multiple suppliers at least one alternative supplier capable of supplying the goods in the quantity that was ordered from the failed supplier when an inhibiting condition occurs for the failed supplier, which is the one selected supplier or at least one supplier in the selected group of supply suppliers, the ordering means cancels the order to the failed supplier and orders the goods in the quantity that was ordered from the failed supplier from the alternative supplier, and the presentation means maintains the presentation of the sales order information as it is when a change condition for the sales order information is not satisfied, and presents a change to the sales order information to the user when the change condition for the sales order information is satisfied.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention provides a computer program for a procurement management system including a computer, the computer program causing the computer to acquire request conditions including a requested quantity and a delivery date of an item requested by a user, and supply conditions including a supply amount of the item by each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item, determine whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more of the plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the request conditions and the supply conditions, select one supplier from the plurality of suppliers if the allocation condition is not satisfied, and select two or more suppliers from the plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group if the allocation condition is satisfied, and determine whether or not the one selected supplier or the selected supplier is satisfied. The method causes the group of supply suppliers to place an order for the goods, and causes sales order information corresponding to the order for the goods to be presented to the user, and when an inhibiting condition occurs in the one selected supplier or a faulty supplier which is at least one supplier in the selected group of supply suppliers that inhibits the supply of the goods by the delivery date, causes at least one alternative supplier capable of supplying the goods in the quantity that was ordered from the faulty supplier to be selected from among the multiple suppliers, causes the order to the faulty supplier to be canceled, and causes the alternative supplier to order the goods in the quantity that was ordered from the faulty supplier, causes the presentation of the sales order information to be maintained as is when a change condition for the sales order information is not met, and causes a change to the sales order information to be presented to the user when the change condition for the sales order information is met.

[0008] Furthermore, a control method for a procurement management system according to another aspect of the present invention is a control method for a procurement management system including a computer, the control method including: causing the computer to acquire request conditions including a requested quantity and a delivery date of an item requested by a user, and supply conditions including a supply amount of the item by each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item, determining whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among the plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the request conditions and the supply conditions, causing the computer to select one supplier among the plurality of suppliers if the allocation condition is not satisfied, and causing the computer to select two or more suppliers from the plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group if the allocation condition is satisfied, and the system has the user order the goods from a group of suppliers, and present sales order information corresponding to the order for the goods to the user; if an inhibiting condition occurs in the one selected supplier or a faulty supplier which is at least one supplier in the selected group of supplying suppliers that inhibits the supply of the goods by the delivery date, the system has at least one alternative supplier who can supply the goods in the quantity that was ordered from the faulty supplier selected from among the multiple suppliers, has the system cancel the order to the faulty supplier, and has the system order the goods in the quantity that was ordered from the faulty supplier from the alternative supplier; if a change condition for the sales order information is not met, the system maintains the presentation of the sales order information as it is, and if the change condition for the sales order information is met, has the system present a change to the sales order information to the user. Effect of the Invention

[0009] This makes it possible to prevent the burden on the user from increasing when placing an order with an alternative supplier. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram of the entire sales management system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of procurement management according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3]FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a sales management system. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an article screen. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a details screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an order confirmation screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a bulk shipping screen. [Figure 8] 13 is a flowchart of a distribution process. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of procurement management according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the article screen. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart of a presentation process according to a modified embodiment. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart of a presentation process according to a modified embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of components described in the following embodiments can be arbitrarily set and can be changed according to the configuration of the device to which the present invention is applied or various conditions. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically described below.

[0012] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 shows a sales management system 100 equipped with a procurement management system that selects two or more suppliers from a plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group. As an example, a supplier is a supplier that produces, processes, sells, transports, or stores goods in order to supply goods. Also, one supplier may own a plurality of warehouses or production bases for goods as a plurality of suppliers. In the sales management system 100, there are a user terminal 40 managed by a user, an inventory management server 10 and a procurement management server 20 managed by a management company such as a distributor, and a supplier terminal 60 managed by a supplier. For example, a user purchases goods as merchandise from a distributor. Then, the distributor procures the goods from the supplier and sells them to the user. Also, the supplier supplies the goods to the distributor.

[0013] The sales management system 100 is configured as a network system or a client-server system equipped with a procurement management system including a procurement management server 20 and an inventory management server 10. For example, a distributor manages the inventory management server 10 and the procurement management server 20, and sells products in response to requests from users. The procurement management server 20 functions as a server device, and is configured as one logical server device by combining, for example, server units 21 as a plurality of computer devices. The inventory management server 10 also functions as a server device, and is configured as one logical server device by combining, for example, server units 11 as a plurality of computer devices. However, the procurement management server 20 may be configured as a single server unit 21, and the inventory management server 10 may be configured as a single server unit 11. Alternatively, the procurement management server 20 and the inventory management server 10 may be configured logically using cloud computing.

[0014] Procurement management server 20 provides various services, including an ordering service for goods, to user terminal 40 or to a user of user terminal 40. This ordering service includes a distribution service that distributes programs or data to user terminal 40 via network 50, and a storage service that stores data received from user terminal 40. The distribution service is, for example, a service that distributes data for updates.

[0015] The inventory management server 10, which is an example of a supply amount management server, stores and manages supply conditions including the supply amount of an item. For example, the inventory management server 10 receives from the supplier terminal 60 the inventory amount of each item of a plurality of suppliers as a supply amount, which is an example of a supply condition. In addition, the inventory management server 10 receives from the supplier terminal 60 the supply time when each of the plurality of suppliers supplies an item, as another example of a supply condition. Then, the inventory management server 10 stores the inventory amount of each item in association with supplier identification information that identifies each supplier. In addition, the inventory management server 10 may store and manage supply conditions including the supply amount of an item stored by a distributor. Note that the item may be a finished product that has a single integrated function, or may be an item that is incorporated into a finished product, or an assembly made up of multiple parts. Furthermore, the item may include a unit, a jig, a device, and a facility that are a combination of multiple parts.

[0016] For example, the supply time is the shipping date of the item, the arrival date when the item reaches the user, the production completion date of the item, the processing completion date of the item, the arrival date when the item reaches the logistics center, etc. Although these supply times are specific dates or times, the supply time may be any information that can identify the timing of the supply of the item, and may be the length of time required for shipping, arrival, or completion, or the length of time required for transportation. Furthermore, the supply amount is the amount of the item that can be supplied to the user, and may be the production amount, processing amount, or shipping amount of the supplier at a specified supply time. Furthermore, both the supply time and the supply amount may be calculated or predicted by the inventory management server 10.

[0017] The user of the supplier terminal 60 transmits the supply conditions to the inventory management server 10 using a means such as e-mail at any timing (for example, at a predetermined time, once a day, once a week, or four times a day). Alternatively, the supplier terminal 60 may transmit the supply conditions automatically at a predetermined timing. Also, the supplier terminal 60 may transmit the supply conditions in response to a request from the inventory management server 10. For example, when a user inputs a requested quantity of an item, the inventory management server 10 requests the supplier terminal 60 to transmit the supply conditions in response to the input. Furthermore, the manager of the inventory management server 10 may obtain the supply conditions from each supplier using a means such as a telephone or facsimile. In this case, the manager may manually input the obtained supply conditions to the inventory management server 10. Furthermore, the inventory management server 10 may obtain the supply conditions from an external database, for example, an inventory quantity database. Also, the inventory management server 10 may calculate or predict the supply conditions.

[0018] The supply conditions may include the quantity of goods that can be supplied within a specified period, such as the inventory amount, and the quantity may be zero or the quantity of goods that can be produced within the specified period. The supply conditions may also include information related to the goods, such as the name, model number, location of the shipping source, time of supply, unit price, shipping cost, specifications, manufacturing conditions, or processing conditions. Furthermore, the supply conditions may include information such as the supplier's name, supplier identification information, or location. The following mainly describes the case where the supply conditions are inventory amount.

[0019] The user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 are computer devices that can be connected to a network. For example, the user terminal 40 includes a desktop or notebook personal computer 41 and a portable tablet terminal device 42. The supplier terminal 60 also includes a desktop or notebook personal computer 61 and a portable tablet terminal device 62. In addition, the user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 include a mobile terminal device such as a mobile phone (including a smartphone). The user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 can allow the user to enjoy various services provided by the procurement management server 20 by implementing various computer programs. The supplier terminal 60 can also allow the supplier to enjoy various services provided by the inventory management server 10 by implementing various computer programs.

[0020] In addition, the user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 can be connected to the procurement management server 20 via a predetermined network 50. Furthermore, the supplier terminal 60 can be connected to the procurement management server 20 and the inventory management server 10 via a predetermined network 50. In the following, a case where the user terminal 40 is a personal computer 41 and the supplier terminal 60 is a personal computer 61 will be described.

[0021] The network 50 is configured to connect the user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 to the procurement management server 20, and to connect the supplier terminal 60 to the inventory management server 10. The network 50 is configured to realize network communication using the TCP / IP protocol. Specifically, a LAN (Local Area Network) 52 connects the procurement management server 20 and the inventory management server 10 to the Internet 51. The Internet 51 as a WAN (Wide Area Network) and the LAN 52 are connected via a router 53. The network 50 may be any of a dedicated line, a telephone line, an in-house network, a mobile communication network, other communication lines, and combinations thereof, and may be wired or wireless. The user terminal 40 and the supplier terminal 60 are also configured to be connected to the Internet 51. Alternatively, the server unit 21 of the procurement management server 20 and the server unit 11 of the inventory management server 10 may be connected to each other by the Internet 51 instead of or in addition to the LAN 52.

[0022] Procurement management server 20 functions as a web server that displays various web pages on the display unit of user terminal 40 in response to access from user terminal 40. Furthermore, in response to an order by a user, procurement management server 20 executes processes such as arranging for the ordered item, issuing transport instructions, and invoicing for the purchase price.

[0023] Specifically, procurement management in the sales management system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. The supplier terminals 60 include terminals for each of a plurality of suppliers, and in the example of Fig. 2, include a terminal for supplier A and a terminal for supplier B. Each of the supplier terminals 60 transmits supply conditions including inventory amounts to the inventory management server 10 at any timing. Then, the inventory management control unit 13 associates the received inventory amounts with the respective supplier identification information for each item, and stores them in the inventory management memory 12.

[0024] A user who wishes to purchase an item accesses a website provided by the procurement management server 20 from the user terminal 40. The user then inputs the requested quantity of the item as an example of the requested condition via the website. The user also inputs the delivery date of the item requested by the user as another example of the requested condition. The requested condition may include information related to the item, such as the name, model number, shipping destination, desired price, specifications, manufacturing conditions, processing conditions, or drawings. Alternatively, the requested condition may be included in a purchase order requesting the purchase of the item. In this case, when the user performs an operation to place a purchase order, the requested condition is transmitted from the user terminal 40 to the procurement management server 20. The requested condition may also be included in a request for quotation requesting an estimate of at least one of the price and delivery date of the item. In this case, when the user performs an operation to place a quotation request, the requested condition is transmitted from the user terminal 40 to the procurement management server 20. As an example, the delivery date is information indicating a time that is a reference for the receipt time of the item, such as the shipping time, arrival time, or production completion time of the item.

[0025] The server control unit 23 of the procurement management server 20 acquires the input request conditions and stores them in the server memory 22 of the procurement management server 20. Furthermore, the server control unit 23 acquires the inventory amount from the inventory management server 10 and selects a supplier that can supply the requested item. Here, when the inventory amount of one specific supplier is sufficient for the requested quantity, the server control unit 23 selects the specific supplier. Then, the server control unit 23 notifies the user that a purchase order is possible by notifying the user of the quantity to be purchased. The user confirms the quantity and performs an operation to place a purchase order. Alternatively, the server control unit 23 may notify the user that a purchase order is possible by enabling an operation to place a purchase order, such as by displaying a predetermined button. For example, the purchase order includes information indicating a model number that identifies the item, a desired delivery date of the item, the quantity of the item, and a shipping destination of the item. Also, when the purchaser stores the item procured from the specific supplier and the inventory amount is sufficient for the requested quantity, the server control unit 23 may notify the user that a purchase order is possible. For example, a distributor may sell to a user goods that it procures from a supplier and stores in its own warehouse.

[0026] Next, the server control unit 23 accepts the purchase order and creates a sales order corresponding to the accepted purchase order. Furthermore, the server control unit 23 creates a purchase order linked to sales identification information (e.g., a sales order number, etc.) that identifies the sales order. Then, the server control unit 23 transmits the purchase order to the supplier terminal 60 of the specific supplier. For example, the purchase order includes information indicating a model number that identifies the item, the shipping time of the item, the quantity of the item, and the destination of the item. The specific supplier then supplies the item in the quantity corresponding to the purchase order.

[0027] On the other hand, if the inventory of one supplier is insufficient for the requested quantity, the server control unit 23 selects two or more suppliers that can supply the item from multiple suppliers as a supplying supplier group. At this time, the server control unit 23 selects a supplying supplier group such that the total inventory of the supplying supplier group is sufficient for the requested quantity. Then, the server control unit 23 distributes the requested quantity of the item to the supplying supplier group. For example, if the requested quantity is 50 units, the server control unit 23 distributes 24 units to supplier A and 26 units to supplier B.

[0028] In the example of FIG. 2, the supply supplier group is made up of supplier A and supplier B. However, the supply supplier group may be made up of three or more suppliers. Furthermore, the server control unit 23 notifies the user that a purchase order is possible by notifying the user of the quantity to be purchased. The user confirms the quantity and performs an operation to place the purchase order. Next, the server control unit 23 accepts the purchase order and creates a sales order corresponding to the accepted purchase order. Furthermore, the server control unit 23 creates split sales orders as multiple sales orders linked with basic sales identification information (e.g., sales order number, etc.) that identifies the sales order. These multiple split sales orders are linked with split sales order identification information (e.g., sales order number and branch number, etc.) that identifies each of them.

[0029] In the example of FIG. 2, the server control unit 23 creates split sales order A and split sales order B as multiple sales orders. Split sales order A is a sales order to supplier A, and split sales order B is a sales order to supplier B. For example, when the requested quantity is 50 units, split sales order A includes a quantity of 24 units as the number of items to be ordered from supplier A, and split sales order B includes a quantity of 26 units as the number of items to be ordered from supplier B. Then, the server control unit 23 creates multiple purchase orders corresponding to the multiple split sales orders and transmits them to the supplier terminal 60 of each supplier. In the example of FIG. 2, the server control unit 23 creates purchase order A and purchase order B as multiple purchase orders.

[0030] Thereafter, the supplier who received the purchase order supplies the goods according to the purchase order. For example, the supplier ships the goods specified by the model number in the quantity and at the shipping time specified by the purchase order to the destination specified by the purchase order. If the total inventory amount of the multiple suppliers is insufficient to meet the requested quantity, the server control unit 23 may notify the user of this fact. The notification may also include a proposal to change the desired delivery date or the requested quantity.

[0031] [Control system] Next, the schematic configuration of the control system of the sales management system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Procurement management server 20, which is an example of procurement management means, includes a server control unit 23 as a control unit of procurement management server 20, and a server memory 22 as a computer-readable non-transient storage medium. Also, inventory management server 10, which is an example of inventory management means, includes an inventory management control unit 13 as a control unit of inventory management server 10, and an inventory management memory 12 as a computer-readable non-transient storage medium.

[0032] The server control unit 23 and the inventory management control unit 13 are configured as a computer that combines a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program, an internal memory required for the operation of the processor, and other peripheral devices. The processor is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), and controls the entire server device and also centrally controls various processes based on a program stored in the server memory 22 or the inventory management memory 12. The server control unit 23 and the inventory management control unit 13 can also perform control according to a program stored in a portable recording medium such as a CD, DVD, CF card, or USB memory, or an external storage medium such as a cloud server on the Internet.

[0033] The server memory 22 and the inventory management memory 12 include a RAM (Random Access Memory) which is a system work memory for the processor to operate, a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing programs and system software, and storage devices such as a HDD (Hard Disc Drive) and an SSD (Solid State Drive). However, the server memory 22 is not limited to being provided as a part of the procurement management server 20, and may be provided as a database server cooperating with the procurement management server 20. Similarly, the inventory management memory 12 is not limited to being provided as a part of the inventory management server 10, and may be provided as a database server cooperating with the inventory management server 10. In the following description, the CPU executes various processing operations such as calculations, controls, and determinations according to a control program stored in the ROM or HDD.

[0034] [Inventory management methods] Inventory management memory 12, which is an example of a storage means for storing supply conditions, stores supply information 12A indicating the supply conditions of each supplier. As an example, supply information 12A includes information specifying an item that the supplier can provide (e.g., the model number of the item) and the quantity of the item (e.g., the amount in stock). Inventory management memory 12 stores the quantity in association with supplier identification information for each item. The supply conditions may be sent directly by each supplier or may be input by an administrator of inventory management server 10. Inventory management memory 12 also stores an inventory management program (not shown).

[0035] The inventory management control unit 13 acquires supply conditions based on the inventory management program, associates them with supplier identification information, and stores them in the inventory management memory 12. To this end, the inventory management control unit 13 is provided with an update unit 13A as an example of an update means that acquires information from multiple suppliers and updates the supply conditions stored in the inventory management memory 12.

[0036] The update unit 13A is a logical device realized by a combination of computer hardware and software. The inventory management program stored in the inventory management memory 12 causes the inventory management control unit 13, which is a computer, to function as the update unit 13A. The update unit 13A may store a quantity smaller than the received inventory amount in the inventory management memory 12 as the supplier's inventory amount. This can prevent a shortage of inventory after a purchase order is received from a user, causing a delay in the delivery of the goods. Furthermore, the update unit 13A may store a quantity larger than the received inventory amount in the inventory management memory 12 as the supplier's inventory amount. For example, the update unit 13A may store in the inventory management memory 12 the quantity of goods obtained by adding the predicted increase in the inventory amount predicted by the prediction unit 23E as the supplier's inventory amount.

[0037] As an example, the update unit 13A receives and acquires the supply conditions transmitted by the supplier periodically or in real time. Then, the update unit 13A updates the supply conditions stored in the inventory management memory 12 to the latest supply conditions based on the acquired supply conditions. Alternatively, the update unit 13A may acquire information irregularly (for example, at any timing when the supplier transmits the supply conditions) and update the supply conditions. Furthermore, the update unit 13A may acquire the latest supply conditions stored in any storage means and update the supply conditions stored in the inventory management memory 12. In this case, the update unit 13A may acquire information and update the supply conditions periodically (for example, at a predetermined time in a day). Furthermore, the update unit 13A may automatically acquire the supply conditions, for example, the update unit 13A may request the supplier terminal 60 to transmit the supply conditions.

[0038] The update unit 13A may also update the supply amount in a manner that combines the requested quantity and unit input by the user. For example, assume that the requested quantity input by the user is the number of pieces, and the supply amount transmitted from the supplier is expressed in units of a dozen, each set of 12 pieces. In this case, the update unit 13A converts the unit of the supply amount to the number of pieces and replaces it with the stored supply amount. In addition, when the supply amount is indicated in units of a pack, each set of 6 pieces, a pair, each set of 2 pieces, size, weight, or the like, the update unit 13A also converts the unit of the supply amount to the same unit as the requested quantity. Furthermore, when the user inputs the requested quantity in units, such as a dozen, each set of 12 pieces, the update unit 13A may convert the number of pieces of the supply amount to a unit, such as a dozen.

[0039] [Procurement management methods] The server control unit 23 has an acquisition unit 23A, a selection unit 23B, a distribution unit 23C, an order unit 23D, a prediction unit 23E, an estimate unit 23F, a judgment unit 23G, and a presentation unit 23H as logical devices realized by a combination of computer hardware and software. The procurement management program PG stored in the server memory 22 causes the server control unit 23, which is a computer, to function as an acquisition unit 23A, which is an example of an acquisition means, a selection unit 23B, which is an example of a selection means, a distribution unit 23C, which is an example of a distribution means, an order unit 23D, which is an example of an order means, a prediction unit 23E, which is an example of a prediction means, an estimate unit 23F, which is an example of an estimate means, a judgment unit 23G, which is an example of a judgment means, and a presentation unit 23H, which is an example of a presentation means. In addition to the above logical devices, the server control unit 23 has a logical device (not shown) that controls switching of the display of a web page in response to the operation of the user terminal 40.

[0040] The server memory 22 stores a procurement management program PG for causing the server control unit 23 to execute various processes associated with the selection of a group of supply suppliers and the allocation of the requested quantity of the item. The procurement management program PG may cooperate with an inventory management program to function as a single program. The server memory 22 also stores request information 22A indicating the request conditions of the item requested by the user. As an example, the request information 22A includes information identifying the item requested by the user (e.g., the item model number) and the request conditions of the item (e.g., the requested quantity and delivery date). In the request information 22A, the request conditions are linked to user identification information that identifies each user.

[0041] The user transmits the request conditions via the user terminal 40, and the acquisition unit 23A acquires the request conditions and stores them in the server memory 22. Alternatively, an administrator of the procurement management server 20 may store the request conditions acquired from the user in the server memory 22. In this case, the acquisition unit 23A acquires the request conditions from the server memory 22. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 23A may acquire the request conditions stored in any storage means and update the request conditions stored in the server memory 22.

[0042] Furthermore, the server memory 22 stores order information 22B indicating the contents of a purchase order from a user. As an example, the order information 22B includes information identifying an item ordered by a user for purchase (e.g., the model number of the item), information identifying a sales order corresponding to the purchase order (e.g., the sales order number), and a requested quantity of the item. The server memory 22 stores the requested quantity in association with the user identification information of each user. The order information 22B also includes information indicating the contents of the sales order and the purchase order, and information indicating the allocation result by the allocation unit 23C. The server memory 22 also stores various data (not shown), such as user information, past estimate results, image data used to display a web page, and data including information such as the model number, name, or features of the item.

[0043] [Acquisition method] The acquisition unit 23A acquires a request condition including a requested quantity of an item requested by a user. As an example, the user inputs a requested quantity of an item desired to be purchased via a web page provided by the server control unit 23. Specifically, the server control unit 23 authenticates the user through user authentication or the like. Then, the server control unit 23 displays a web page on a display device (not shown) of the user terminal 40. On the web page, the user performs an operation to specify a desired item, such as selecting a displayed image link or inputting an item model number or item name. As a result, the server control unit 23 displays an item screen 91 shown in FIG. 4 on the display device of the user terminal 40 of the authenticated user. Note that the screen configuration of the item screen 91 can be appropriately changed, and for example, a delivery date input field 91B and a quantity input field 91C may be combined into one.

[0044] The acquisition unit 23A also acquires supply conditions including the supply amount of the goods by each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the goods. Specifically, the acquisition unit 23A acquires the supply conditions from the inventory management memory 12. Furthermore, when the supply conditions are updated, the acquisition unit 23A acquires the updated supply conditions from the inventory management memory 12. For example, the acquisition unit 23A requests the inventory management control unit 13 to search for the stock amount of the requested goods. Then, the inventory management control unit 13 searches for the stock amount of each supplier and transmits the stock amount as the search result to the acquisition unit 23A. Note that the supply conditions may be stored in the server memory 22 instead of the inventory management memory 12. In this case, the acquisition unit 23A reads and acquires the supply conditions from the server memory 22.

[0045] An item field 91A is provided on the item screen 91 shown in Fig. 4, and an item name, an item model number, and an item image are displayed in the item field 91A. In the example of Fig. 4, "shaft holder" is displayed as the item name, and "ATHC3" is displayed as the item model number. In addition, an image obtained by photographing the shaft holder from an oblique angle is displayed as the item image. Note that the item image may be a 3D model of the item.

[0046] In addition, the item screen 91 is provided with a delivery date input field 91B, which is provided with a user order number field for inputting any symbol to identify the purchase order. Furthermore, the delivery date input field 91B is provided with a delivery date field for inputting the delivery date of the item desired by the user. When the user inputs the delivery date in the delivery date field, the acquisition unit 23A acquires the delivery date input by the user, includes it in the request information 22A, and stores it in the server memory 22. Note that FIG. 4 shows an example in which the delivery date based on the shipping date "2021 / 11 / 11" is input, and "123456789" is input as the user order number.

[0047] Furthermore, the item screen 91 is provided with a quantity input field 91C, which is provided with a quantity input field 91D for inputting a requested quantity of the item. When the user inputs the requested quantity in the quantity field 91D, the acquisition unit 23A acquires the requested quantity input by the user, includes it in the request information 22A, and stores it in the server memory 22. When the user desires to purchase an item in a quantity exceeding the purchasable quantity (51 or more in the example of FIG. 4), the user selects the delivery date confirmation button 91E to request the server control unit 23 to confirm the delivery date. Upon receiving the request, the server control unit 23 notifies the user terminal 40 of the possible shipping date of the item in the quantity exceeding the purchasable quantity and the quantity of the item that can be shipped by the possible shipping date. Alternatively, upon receiving the request for confirmation of the delivery date, the server control unit 23 may inquire of the supplier of the possible shipping date of the item in the quantity exceeding the purchasable quantity, and notify the user terminal 40 of the answer.

[0048] Alternatively, the user may install application software in advance on the user terminal 40 and input the required conditions such as the desired delivery date and the required quantity using this application software. Furthermore, the user may notify the administrator managing the procurement management server 20 of the required conditions using other means such as telephone or e-mail. In this case, the administrator of the procurement management server 20 inputs the required conditions and stores them in the server memory 22. The user may also input the required conditions on a web page provided by another server. In this case, the acquisition unit 23A acquires the required conditions from the other server. The required conditions may also be included in a request for quotation, a purchase order, an inquiry, or the like.

[0049] Furthermore, the quantity input field 91C displays the unit price per item, the total amount which is the price of the requested quantity of items, and the available quantity. In the example of FIG. 4, "1,090 yen" is displayed as the unit price, "54,500 yen" as the total amount, and "50 units" as the available quantity. Also, below the available quantity, "24 units" is displayed as the quantity which can be shipped on the day of the order. This quantity is the quantity which can be shipped on the day of the order out of the requested quantity of items which can be delivered by the desired delivery date entered by the user.

[0050] When the requested quantity is allocated to the supplying supplier group as explained by using the example of Figure 2, the supplying time of each supplier may differ. For example, Figure 4 shows that the supplying supplier group can supply 50 units by the desired delivery date, and of that, the supplier who can supply immediately after the order can supply 24 units. As an example, the quantity of goods that can be shipped on the day of the order is the quantity of goods that have already been transported by the supplier to the distributor and are stored at the distributor's logistics center.

[0051] Furthermore, the quantity input field 91C is provided with a details screen button 91F and an order button 91G. When the user performs an operation to select the details screen button 91F, the server control unit 23 causes the display device of the user terminal 40 to display a details screen 92 shown in Fig. 5. When the user performs an operation to select the order button 91G, the server control unit 23 causes the display device of the user terminal 40 to display an order confirmation screen 93 shown in Fig. 6.

[0052] [Presentation means] The presentation unit 23H presents to the user split shipping information indicating that the quantity of items allocated by the allocation unit 23C will be shipped separately. For example, the presentation unit 23H presents to the user the quantity of items allocated by the allocation unit 23C and the shipping date as the supply time of the items based on the allocation result by the allocation unit 23C as split shipping information. Specifically, the presentation unit 23H obtains information such as the quantity allocated as the allocation result and the shipping date from the allocation unit 23C and presents it to the user as split shipping information. Specifically, in the detailed screen 92 shown in FIG. 5, the quantity of items to be shipped separately and the shipping date are displayed as split shipping information in the split shipping field 92C. Alternatively, the presentation unit 23H may present the split shipping information to the user by notifying the user of the split shipping information by other means such as email. The split shipping information may be a character string indicating that the items will be shipped separately (for example, "will be shipped separately"), a symbol, or the like.

[0053] The split shipment field 92C also displays the order deadline. The order deadline is the deadline during which the shipping date based on the allocation result by the allocation unit 23C and the unit price and total amount as the estimate result by the estimation unit 23F are valid. If the user confirms the purchase order by the order deadline, the user can purchase the goods according to the displayed shipping date, unit price, and total amount. After the user confirms the purchase order, the ordering unit 23D then orders the goods in the quantity allocated by the allocation unit 23C to each supplier in the supply supplier group. To this end, the ordering unit 23D accepts the purchase order from the user and creates split sales orders in the same number as the number of suppliers included in the supply supplier group based on the purchase order.

[0054] In the example of FIG. 5, "2021 / 11 / 01" is displayed as the order deadline. In addition, "24 pieces" which is the number of items to be shipped in the first shipment, and "the day of the order" which is the shipping date are displayed. Furthermore, "26 pieces" which is the number of items to be shipped in the second shipment, and "2021 / 11 / 11" which is the shipping date are displayed. In addition, as a condition for shipping on the day of the order, it may be set that the purchase order is confirmed by a specified time (for example, 12:00). Furthermore, the divided shipment column 92C is provided with an order button 92G. When the user performs an operation to select the order button 92G, the server control unit 23 causes the display device of the user terminal 40 to display the order confirmation screen 93 shown in FIG. 6.

[0055] The details screen 92 is provided with an item field 91A and a required condition field 92B. The item field 91A displays the item name, item model number, and item image. The required condition field 92B displays the desired delivery date and required quantity as the required conditions of the item input by the user. The required condition field 92B also displays the user order number, unit price, and total amount. The screen configuration of the details screen 92 can be changed as appropriate.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 6, the order confirmation screen 93 has an item field 91A, a required condition field 92B, and an order field 93C. The item field 91A displays the item name, item model number, and item image. The required condition field 92B displays the desired delivery date and requested quantity. The order field 93C displays the order deadline, the number of items to be shipped in installments, and the shipping date.

[0057] Furthermore, the order field 93C is provided with a specification field 93D for specifying a shipping date. The user can input a desired shipping date in the specification field 93D for each of the first shipment and the second shipment. However, the shipping date that the user can input is a date later than the possible shipping date. For example, for the first shipment in FIG. 6, the product can be shipped on the day of the order, so the user can input a date after the day after the order. Also, for the second shipment in FIG. 6, the product can be shipped on November 11, 2021, so the user can input a date after the day after November 11, 2021. Also, the order field 93C is provided with an order confirmation button 93E. When the user performs an operation to select the order confirmation button 93E, the ordering unit 23D of the server control unit 23 accepts the purchase order and transmits the purchase order to the supplier.

[0058] The presentation unit 23H also presents the user with collective shipping information indicating that the requested quantity of items will be shipped together. For example, the presentation unit 23H presents the quantity of items to be shipped together and the shipping date as the supply time of the items to the user as collective shipping information. Here, the quantity of items to be shipped together matches the requested quantity. Specifically, a collective shipping button 93F is provided in the order field 93C of the order confirmation screen 93. Then, when the user performs an operation to select the collective shipping button 93F, the server control unit 23 causes the display device of the user terminal 40 to display the collective shipping screen 94 shown in FIG. 7. The collective shipping screen 94 is provided with a collective shipping field 94C. Then, the collective shipping field 94C displays the number of items to be shipped together and the shipping date as collective shipping information. Alternatively, the presentation unit 23H may present the collective shipping information to the user by notifying the user of the collective shipping information by other means such as email.

[0059] In addition, the order deadline is displayed in the bulk shipment field 94C, and if the user confirms the purchase order by the order deadline, the user can purchase the goods according to the displayed shipping date, unit price, and total amount. After the user confirms the purchase order, the ordering unit 23D orders the goods in the quantity allocated by the allocation unit 23C to each supplier in the supply supplier group. To this end, the ordering unit 23D accepts the purchase order from the user and creates split sales orders in the same number as the number of suppliers included in the supply supplier group based on the purchase order.

[0060] Furthermore, the bulk shipping field 94C is provided with a designation field 94D for designating a shipping date. The user can input a desired shipping date in the designation field 94D for the items to be shipped in bulk. However, the shipping date that the user can input is a date later than the possible shipping date. For example, if 24 items out of 50 items to be shipped in bulk can be shipped at the time of the order and the remaining 26 items can be shipped on November 11, 2021, the user can input a date after the day after November 11, 2021. In addition, the bulk shipping field 94C is provided with an order confirmation button 94E. When the user performs an operation to select the order confirmation button 94E, the ordering unit 23D accepts the purchase order and transmits the purchase order to the supplier.

[0061] As an example of consolidated shipment of goods, multiple suppliers transport goods in the quantity based on the purchase orders they have received to a common collection point (e.g., a distributor's logistics base) specified by the purchase orders. For example, assume that the requested quantity is 50 units, the quantity in purchase order A received by supplier A is 24 units, and the quantity in purchase order B received by supplier B is 26 units. In this case, supplier A transports 24 units of goods to the collection point, and supplier B transports 26 units of goods to the same collection point. After that, a company (e.g., a distributor) that manages the collection point transports the 50 units of goods together to a destination specified by the user. The collection point may be a logistics base of a transport company.

[0062] The batch shipment screen 94 is provided with an item field 91A and a required condition field 92B. The item field 91A displays the item name, item model number, and item image. The required condition field 92B displays the desired delivery date, required quantity, etc., as the required conditions of the item input by the user.

[0063] [Means for determining and selecting] The determination unit 23G determines whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among the multiple suppliers is satisfied based on the request condition and the supply condition acquired by the acquisition unit 23A. As an example, the determination unit 23G determines whether or not the allocation condition is satisfied at the timing when the user inputs the requested quantity of the request condition. Alternatively, the determination unit 23G may determine whether or not the allocation condition is satisfied at the timing when the user inputs a requested quantity that exceeds a reference quantity that is preset for each item. Then, when the allocation condition is satisfied, the selection unit 23B selects two or more suppliers from the multiple suppliers as a supply supplier group. Specifically, when the allocation condition is satisfied, the selection unit 23B selects a specific supplier and at least one other supplier different from the specific supplier from the multiple suppliers as a supply supplier group.

[0064] As an example, the selection unit 23B selects one specific supplier from among the multiple suppliers. Then, the determination unit 23G determines that the allocation condition is satisfied when the requested quantity is greater than the supply amount of the specific supplier. For example, a specific supplier is set in advance for each item, and the selection unit 23B selects a specific supplier set for the item included in the requested condition. Then, when the determination unit 23G determines that the allocation condition is satisfied, the selection unit 23B further selects at least one other supplier different from the specific supplier. For example, the selection unit 23B selects, from among the multiple suppliers, two or more suppliers who can supply the item by the delivery date of the requested condition as a supply supplier group based on the supply time of the supply condition. In this way, the selection unit 23B selects a supply supplier group consisting of the specific supplier and other suppliers. As a result, the requested quantity of the item that exceeds the supply amount of the specific supplier can be allocated to the other suppliers.

[0065] The selection unit 23B also searches for a supplier who can supply (for example, ship) the item by the delivery date, referring to the delivery date of the request condition and the supply time of the supply condition. For example, if the delivery date is November 3rd and the requested quantity is 50 units, the shipping date of supplier A is November 2nd and the supply amount is 24 units, the shipping date of supplier B is November 3rd and the supply amount is 26 units, and the shipping date of supplier C is November 4th and the supply amount is 50 units. In this case, since the shipping date of supplier C is later than the delivery date, the selection unit 23B selects supplier A and supplier B as the supply supplier group. If the selection unit 23B cannot find a supplier who can supply the item by the delivery date, the server control unit 23 notifies the user terminal 40 of the possible shipping date of the item and the quantity of the item that can be shipped by the possible shipping date, in the same way as when the user orders a quantity that exceeds the purchaseable quantity. The user confirms and corrects the delivery date, and performs the above-mentioned purchase order operation.

[0066] For example, the selection unit 23B searches for a supplier who can supply the largest amount of goods by the delivery date of the required conditions, and selects the supplier as the other supplier. The selection unit 23B may also search for a supplier who can supply the goods by the delivery date of the required conditions in the shortest time based on the supply time of the supply conditions, and select the supplier as the other supplier. Alternatively, the selection unit 23B may select a supplier who can supply the largest amount of goods as indicated by the prediction result of the prediction unit 23E described later, as the other supplier. The selection unit 23B may also select a supplier who can supply the goods in the shortest time as indicated by the prediction result of the prediction unit 23E, as the other supplier.

[0067] Furthermore, the selection unit 23B may select, based on the supply time, a supplier that can supply the goods by the delivery date and has the largest supply volume among the multiple suppliers as the specific supplier. In this case, the selection unit 23B refers to the supply conditions to search for a supplier that can supply the largest amount of goods, and selects the supplier as the specific supplier. For example, the selection unit 23B selects a supplier with a large inventory volume as the specific supplier so that a supplier with a large inventory volume as the supply volume is given priority in supplying goods. Furthermore, the selection unit 23B selects a supplier with the second largest supply volume after the specific supplier as another supplier.

[0068] Furthermore, the selection unit 23B may select, as the specific supplier, a supplier that can supply the goods by the delivery date and has the earliest or shortest supply time among the multiple suppliers based on the supply time. In this case, the selection unit 23B refers to the supply conditions to search for a supplier that has the earliest or shortest supply time, and selects the supplier as the specific supplier. Furthermore, the selection unit 23B selects, as another supplier, a supplier that has the next earliest or shortest supply time after the specific supplier. As a result, the supplier that can supply the goods to the user earlier is included in the supply supplier group. The selection unit 23B may select the supply supplier group based on the unit price or transportation cost of the supply conditions. The cost may include other costs such as raw material cost, processing cost, production cost, taxes such as customs duty, storage cost, export cost, and import cost.

[0069] As another example, the determination unit 23G determines that the allocation condition is satisfied when the requested quantity is greater than the predicted supply quantity obtained by subtracting the predicted purchase quantity as a prediction result predicted by the prediction unit 23E from the supply quantity of the specific supplier. For example, a purchase order from a specific supplier by another user may be predicted close to a desired delivery date. In this case, the predicted purchase quantity by the other user is subtracted to prevent the inventory quantity of the specific supplier from becoming zero. As a result, if the inventory quantity of the specific supplier becomes zero, a delay will occur in the delivery of the purchase order by the other user, but the delay can be prevented by subtracting the predicted purchase quantity. Alternatively, the determination unit 23G may determine that the allocation condition is satisfied when the requested quantity is greater than a reference quantity preset for each item.

[0070] As yet another example, the determination unit 23G determines that the allocation condition is satisfied when the requested quantity is greater than the predicted supply quantity obtained by adding the predicted increase amount as a prediction result predicted by the prediction unit 23E described below to the supply quantity of the specific supplier. For example, an increase in the supply quantity may be predicted before the supply conditions are updated. In this case, even when the supply quantity of the specific supplier at the time of selection is less than the requested quantity, the determination unit 23G adds the predicted increase amount in anticipation of an increase in the inventory amount of the specific supplier. In this way, the amount of the requested quantity that exceeds the predicted supply quantity of the specific supplier can be allocated to other suppliers by taking the predicted increase amount into consideration.

[0071] [Distribution method] The allocating unit 23C allocates the requested quantity of the request condition to the supply supplier group selected by the selecting unit 23B. As an example, the allocating unit 23C allocates an amount according to the supply amount of the specific supplier to the specific supplier from the requested quantity. Then, the allocating unit 23C allocates the remaining amount from the requested quantity to other suppliers in the supply supplier group. For example, if the requested quantity is 50 units and the supply amount of the specific supplier A is 24 units, the allocating unit 23C allocates the remaining 26 units to another supplier B. This allows the selected supply supplier group to supply the item to the user even if the requested quantity of the item is greater than the supply amount of the specific supplier. Also, when a user places an order to purchase a large amount of items through electronic commerce, the requested quantity can be dynamically allocated to each of the multiple suppliers constituting the supply supplier group. This reduces the supplier's inventory and allows the item to be shipped in a short period of time.

[0072] As another example, the allocating unit 23C may allocate the requested quantity to the suppliers selected in the supply supplier group in equal numbers. For example, if the requested quantity is 50 units, the allocating unit 23C allocates 25 units to the specific supplier A and 25 units to the other supplier B. The allocating unit 23C may also allocate the largest requested quantity to the specific supplier. For example, if the requested quantity is 50 units, the allocating unit 23C allocates 26 units to the specific supplier A and 24 units to the other supplier B.

[0073] Furthermore, in order to average the inventory amounts, the allocation unit 23C may allocate the requested quantity so that the variance value of the inventory amount becomes smaller. For example, assume that the inventory amount of the specific supplier A is 30 pieces, the inventory amount of the other supplier B is 20 pieces, the inventory amount of the other supplier C is 15 pieces, and the requested quantity is 50 pieces. In this case, the allocation unit 23C allocates 25 pieces to the specific supplier A, 15 pieces to the other supplier B, and 10 pieces to the other supplier C. As a result, the inventory amounts of the specific supplier A, the other supplier B, and the other supplier C are each 5 pieces, and no variation occurs in the inventory amounts.

[0074] Furthermore, the allocating unit 23C may allocate the requested quantity based on a plurality of conditions. As an example, the allocating unit 23C allocates the quantity that exceeds the supply quantity that the specific supplier can supply to the other suppliers in equal numbers. For example, if the requested quantity is 50 units and the supply quantity of the specific supplier A is 24 units, the allocating unit 23C allocates 13 units of the remaining 26 units to the other supplier B, and allocates the remaining 13 units to the other supplier C.

[0075] [Ordering method] The ordering unit 23D orders the quantity of goods allocated by the allocation unit 23C to the supplying supplier group. For example, the user confirms the contents of the quotation and confirms the purchase order (selects the order confirmation button 93E in FIG. 6). Then, upon receiving the confirmation of the purchase order, the ordering unit 23D orders the goods from the suppliers included in the supplying supplier group. To this end, the presentation unit 23H presents to the user the quantity of goods allocated by the allocation unit 23C and the shipping date as the supply time of the goods. As an example, the presentation unit 23H presents the divided shipment information to the user by displaying the shipping date and the quantity of goods on the details screen 92 in FIG. 5.

[0076] In the example of Fig. 2, the ordering unit 23D, which has accepted a confirmed purchase order, creates split sales orders in the same number as the number of suppliers included in the supply supplier group, based on the purchase order from the user. Specifically, the ordering unit 23D creates split sales order A and split sales order B corresponding to supplier A and supplier B. The ordering unit 23D also includes in the split sales order information identifying the items and information indicating the quantity of the allocated items. Note that this information is linked to the split sales order identification information, and the server memory 22 stores it by including it in the order information 22B.

[0077] Furthermore, the ordering unit 23D transmits purchase orders corresponding to the split sales orders to each supplier to place orders for the goods. In the example of Fig. 2, the ordering unit 23D transmits purchase order A corresponding to split sales order A to supplier A, and transmits purchase order B corresponding to split sales order B to supplier B. The ordering unit 23D also includes in the purchase order information identifying the goods, information indicating the quantity of goods to be supplied, the delivery date of the goods, and information indicating the shipping destination of the goods, etc. This information is linked to purchase order identification information that identifies the purchase order, and the server memory 22 stores it by including it in the order information 22B.

[0078] Then, the supplier who received the purchase order ships the goods on or before the delivery date, and transports the goods to the user. As an example of shipping goods, multiple suppliers transport the quantity of goods based on the purchase order received by each of them to the destination specified by the user. For example, assume that the requested quantity is 50 pieces, the quantity in purchase order A received by supplier A is 24 pieces, and the quantity in purchase order B received by supplier B is 26 pieces. In this case, supplier A transports 24 pieces of goods to the destination, and supplier B transports 26 pieces of goods to the destination. In this way, since the ordering unit 23D creates a split sales order, the user can omit the operation of placing purchase orders to multiple suppliers. Note that the ordering unit 23D may create a split sales order at the same time as the estimation unit 23F creates the estimate result.

[0079] Furthermore, when an inhibiting condition that inhibits the supply of goods occurs in at least one supplier of the supplying supplier group, the ordering unit 23D may order the quantity of goods allocated to the supplier for which the inhibiting condition occurred to a supplier among the multiple suppliers who can supply the goods. For example, an unexpected delivery delay may occur in a supplier between the transmission of a purchase order and the shipping date. In this case, the selection unit 23B refers to the supply conditions stored in the inventory management memory 12 and searches for a supplier among the multiple suppliers who can supply the goods by the delivery date. Alternatively, the selection unit 23B searches for a supplier among the multiple suppliers who can supply the goods earliest. Then, the ordering unit 23D transmits a purchase order to the supplier and orders the quantity of goods allocated to the supplier for which the inhibiting condition occurred.

[0080] As an example, the selection unit 23B determines that an obstruction condition has occurred when a notification of a delivery delay or impossibility of delivery is received from a supplier. Alternatively, the selection unit 23B determines that an obstruction condition has occurred when an item is not supplied by a due date, for example, when a shipping notification of an item is not received from a supplier by a due date. The selection unit 23B may also determine that an obstruction condition has occurred when the occurrence of a natural disaster, a disaster, a transportation disruption, or the like is detected.

[0081] [Prediction methods] The prediction unit 23E predicts demand for the item in a predetermined period. In this case, the selection unit 23B selects a group of supplying suppliers so that the variation in inventory amounts of the multiple suppliers in the predetermined period is reduced based on the prediction result by the prediction unit 23E. As an example, the prediction unit 23E predicts the purchase amount of the item in a predetermined period (e.g., one week) and outputs the predicted purchase amount as the prediction result to the selection unit 23B. The selection unit 23B selects a group of supplying suppliers so that the variation in inventory amounts is reduced based on the predicted purchase amount and the inventory amount acquired by the acquisition unit 23A. This makes it possible to select suppliers so as to minimize the variation in inventory amounts during the predetermined period for which demand is predicted, and averages the inventory amounts of the suppliers.

[0082] For example, suppose that the inventory amount of specific supplier A is 30 units, the inventory amount of other supplier B is 20 units, the requested quantity is 25 units, and the predicted purchase amount for one week is 30 units. In this case, the inventory amount of specific supplier A is greater than the requested quantity, but if only specific supplier A is selected, the difference in inventory amount between specific supplier A and other supplier B during one week will be 15 units, resulting in variation. Therefore, the selection unit 23B selects specific supplier A and other supplier B as a supply supplier group so that the inventory can also be allocated to other supplier B. In this case, the allocation unit 23C may allocate 17 units to specific supplier A and 8 units to other supplier B so as to reduce the variation in inventory amount of multiple suppliers in a specified period.

[0083] As an example, the prediction unit 23E predicts the demand for the goods, such as a predicted increase in the supply amount, a predicted supply amount, a predicted supply time, and a predicted purchase amount. For example, the prediction unit 23E predicts the demand for the goods for the current same period based on the past supply amount or purchase amount. Specifically, the prediction unit 23E outputs a prediction result in which the past supply amount or purchase amount is the current supply amount or purchase amount for the current same period. Alternatively, the prediction unit 23E may predict the demand for the goods using a learning model constructed based on learning data including performance data such as the past supply amount or purchase amount. The learning model may be constructed by the inventory management server 10 or the procurement management server 20, or may be a learning model constructed in advance.

[0084] [Estimation method] The estimation unit 23F notifies the user of the unit price of the item and the total amount of the requested quantity of items as the estimation result. Specifically, the estimation unit 23F notifies the user by displaying the unit price and the total amount on a details screen 92 shown in Fig. 5. For example, the estimation unit 23F creates the estimation result by referring to the supply conditions (e.g., the unit price of the item) acquired by the acquisition unit 23A. The estimation result may include the shipping date, the number of actual working days required until shipping, etc.

[0085] [Device] The user terminal 40 includes a user terminal control unit 45 that controls the user terminal 40, and a user terminal memory 44 that stores a control program. The user terminal control unit 45 is a computer that combines a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program with other peripheral devices. The user terminal 40 also includes a display device and an input device (not shown). The input device (not shown) is a keyboard, numeric keypad, touch panel, etc., and the user inputs the requested quantity, etc. using the input device. The display device (not shown) displays web pages such as each screen, and the user places a purchase order for goods according to the displayed web page.

[0086] The supplier terminal 60 also includes a supplier terminal control unit 65 that controls the supplier terminal 60, and a supplier terminal memory 64 that stores a control program. The supplier terminal control unit 65 is a computer that combines a processor that executes various arithmetic processing and operation control according to a predetermined program, and other peripheral devices. The supplier terminal 60 also includes a display device and an input device (not shown). The supplier uses the input device to input the supply amount, etc.

[0087] As an example, the processors of the user terminal control unit 45 and the supplier terminal control unit 65 are, for example, a CPU or MPU, and control the entire terminal and also control various processes based on the control programs stored in the user terminal memory 44 and the supplier terminal memory 64. The user terminal memory 44 and the supplier terminal memory 64 also include a RAM, which is a system work memory for the processor to operate, and a storage device such as a ROM, HDD, or SSD, which stores programs and system software. The user terminal control unit 45 and the supplier terminal control unit 65 can also perform control according to a program stored in a portable recording medium such as a CD, DVD, CF card, or USB memory, or an external storage medium such as a cloud server on the Internet. The user terminal memory 44 and the supplier terminal memory 64 are external storage devices including a non-volatile storage medium (a computer-readable non-transient storage medium) such as a hard disk and a semiconductor storage device.

[0088] [Sorting process] The allocation process in the procurement management system will be described with reference to FIG. 8. When a supplier transmits supply conditions including a supply amount to the inventory management server 10, the update unit 13A acquires the supply conditions (S101). Then, the update unit 13A updates the supply conditions stored in the inventory management memory 12 to the latest supply conditions based on the acquired supply conditions (S102). Alternatively, if the supply conditions are transmitted for the first time, the update unit 13A stores the acquired supply conditions in the inventory management memory 12. Also, the user inputs the requested conditions including the requested quantity of the goods desired to be purchased via a web page provided by the server control unit 23. Then, the acquisition unit 23A acquires the requested conditions input by the user (S103). Also, the acquisition unit 23A acquires the supply amount from the inventory management server 10.

[0089] The determination unit 23G compares the requested quantity and the supply quantity acquired by the acquisition unit 23A (S104) and determines whether the allocation condition is satisfied (S105). At this time, if the requested quantity is less than the supply quantity of the specific supplier, the determination unit 23G determines that the allocation condition is not satisfied (NO in S105). That is, the determination unit 23G determines that the specific supplier can supply the goods alone. In this case, the requested quantity is not allocated, so the estimation unit 23F notifies the user of the same amount as the requested quantity as the available quantity for purchase (S106). For example, the estimation unit 23F displays the quantity and shipping date of the goods on the display device of the user terminal 40. Then, the user confirms the quantity and performs an operation to confirm the purchase order, and the ordering unit 23D accepts the purchase order (S107). Next, the ordering unit 23D transmits a purchase order to the specific supplier and orders the goods (S108).

[0090] On the other hand, if the requested quantity is greater than the supply quantity of the specific supplier, the determination unit 23G determines that the allocation condition is satisfied (YES in S105). Then, the selection unit 23B selects the specific supplier and other suppliers who can supply the goods by the delivery date of the requested condition as a supply supplier group (S109). Also, the allocation unit 23C allocates the requested quantity of the requested condition to the supply supplier group selected by the selection unit 23B (S110). Then, the estimation unit 23F notifies the user of the allocated quantity (S106). For example, the estimation unit 23F displays the allocated quantity and the shipping date of the goods on the display device of the user terminal 40. Then, the user confirms the quantity and performs an operation to confirm the purchase order, and the ordering unit 23D accepts the purchase order (S107). Then, the ordering unit 23D transmits a purchase order to each supplier of the supply supplier group to order the goods (S108). This completes the allocation process.

[0091] According to the procurement management system of the first embodiment described above, the amount of goods requested by a user can be allocated to multiple sub-suppliers, thereby shortening the period from purchase order to delivery of the goods. In other words, the amount of the requested quantity that exceeds the supply amount can be ordered from other suppliers, allowing the goods to be delivered sooner. Furthermore, when placing a purchase order for a large amount of goods, the user does not need to calculate the quantity to be purchased from each of multiple suppliers. Furthermore, the user does not need to place purchase orders with each of multiple suppliers. Therefore, calculations and operations when placing a purchase order can be omitted, and the time required for a purchase order can be shortened. Furthermore, since the supply amount of each supplier is dynamically updated, the need for allocation of the requested quantity can be determined based on the newer supply amount.

[0092] The above-mentioned control method of the procurement management system is executed by the inventory management control unit 13 and the server control unit 23 as a computer in cooperation with each other. Specifically, the control method includes an acquisition step, a determination step, a selection step, and an allocation step. In the acquisition step, a request condition including a requested quantity of an item requested by a user and a supply condition including the supply amount of the item by each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item are acquired. In addition, in the determination step, it is determined whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among the plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the request condition and the supply condition. Furthermore, in the selection step, if the allocation condition is satisfied, two or more suppliers are selected from the plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group. Then, in the allocation step, the requested quantity is allocated to the supply supplier group. Alternatively, one of the inventory management control unit 13 and the server control unit 23 may execute the acquisition step, the determination step, the selection step, and the allocation step.

[0093] [Second embodiment] The second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10. The procurement management system provided in the sales management system 200 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it creates multiple purchase orders without creating multiple sales orders. In the description of the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be described, and components already described will be given the same reference numbers and their description will be omitted. Except as otherwise described, components given the same reference numbers perform substantially the same operations and functions, and their actions and effects are also substantially the same.

[0094] Procurement management by the procurement management system of the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Supplier terminals 60 include a terminal of supplier A and a terminal of supplier B. Each of supplier terminals 60 transmits supply conditions including inventory amounts to inventory management server 10 at any timing. Then, inventory management control unit 13 of inventory management server 10 associates the received supply conditions with the respective supplier identification information for each item and stores them in inventory management memory 12.

[0095] A user who wishes to purchase an item accesses a website provided by the procurement management server 20 from the user terminal 40. Specifically, the server control unit 23 of the procurement management server 20 causes an item screen 95 as shown in FIG. 10 to be displayed on the display device of the user terminal 40. The item screen 95 is provided with an item field 91A and a delivery date input field 91B. The item screen 95 is also provided with a quantity input field 95C, which is provided with a quantity field 95D for inputting the requested quantity of the item. When the user inputs the requested quantity in the quantity field 95D, the server control unit 23 acquires the requested quantity input by the user, includes it in the request information 22A, and stores it in the server memory 22. When the user wishes to purchase an item in a quantity that exceeds the purchasable quantity, the user selects a delivery date confirmation button 95E to request confirmation of the delivery date.

[0096] The user inputs the requested quantity and delivery date of the goods via the goods screen 95. The server control unit 23 of the procurement management server 20 acquires the input request conditions and stores them in the server memory 22 of the procurement management server 20. The server control unit 23 then acquires the stock amount from the inventory management server 10 and selects a specific supplier that can supply the requested goods. Here, the server control unit 23 selects the specific supplier if the stock amount of the specific supplier is sufficient for the requested quantity. Then, the server control unit 23 notifies the user that a purchase order is possible, and the user performs an operation to send the purchase order. For this purpose, the goods screen 95 shown in FIG. 10 is provided with an order button 95G. When the user performs an operation to select the order button 95G, the server control unit 23 causes an order confirmation screen (not shown) to be displayed on the display device of the user terminal 40. Then, the user checks the contents of the purchase order on the order confirmation screen, selects the order confirmation button, and places the purchase order. Note that the goods screen 95 supports lump-sum delivery, so the details screen button 91F is not provided.

[0097] On the other hand, if the inventory of the specific supplier is insufficient for the requested quantity, the server control unit 23 selects the specific supplier and other suppliers that can supply the item from multiple suppliers as a supplying supplier group. At this time, the server control unit 23 selects the supplying supplier group so that the total inventory of the supplying supplier group is sufficient for the requested quantity. Then, the server control unit 23 allocates the requested quantity of the item to the supplying supplier group.

[0098] Furthermore, the server control unit 23 notifies the user that a purchase order is possible by presenting the quantity of items that can be purchased to the user as consolidated shipping information. When the user performs an operation to select the order button 95G (FIG. 10), the server control unit 23 causes an order confirmation screen (not shown) to be displayed on the display device of the user terminal 40. The user then checks the contents of the purchase order on the order confirmation screen and selects the order confirmation button to place the purchase order. Next, the server control unit 23 accepts the purchase order and creates multiple purchase orders linked with basic sales identification information that identifies the sales order corresponding to the accepted purchase order. These multiple purchase orders are linked to basic sales identification information that identifies each of them.

[0099] In the example of FIG. 9, the server control unit 23 creates, as multiple purchase orders, purchase order A and purchase order B corresponding to one sales order. Purchase order A is an order to supplier A, and purchase order B is an order to supplier B. Then, the server control unit 23 transmits the multiple purchase orders to the supplier terminals 60 of the respective suppliers. After that, each supplier supplies goods according to the purchase orders. For example, the supplier ships goods specified by model numbers in the quantity and shipping time specified by the purchase order to a common collection point specified by the purchase order. In this case, supplier A and supplier B transport the goods in the quantity allocated to them to the collection point. Then, a trader (e.g., a sales company) managing the collection point collectively transports the collected goods to a destination specified by the user.

[0100] [Sales order information provided] Next, a mode of presenting sales order information indicating the contents of one sales order corresponding to a purchase order to a user when the allocation conditions are satisfied will be described. As shown in Fig. 3, the server control unit 23 has an acquisition unit 23A, a selection unit 23B, an allocation unit 23C, an ordering unit 23D, a determination unit 23G, and a presentation unit 23H. The acquisition unit 23A acquires request conditions including a requested quantity and a delivery date of an item requested by a user, and supply conditions including the supply amount of the item by each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item. The determination unit 23G determines whether an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among a plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the request conditions and the supply conditions.

[0101] For example, the selection unit 23B selects one specific supplier from among the multiple suppliers. Then, the determination unit 23G determines that the allocation condition is satisfied when the requested quantity is greater than the supply quantity of the specific supplier. Furthermore, when the allocation condition is satisfied, the selection unit 23B selects two or more suppliers from the multiple suppliers as a supply supplier group. For example, the selection unit 23B selects the specific supplier and at least one other supplier different from the specific supplier from among the multiple suppliers as a supply supplier group. Then, the allocation unit 23C allocates the requested quantity of the item to the supply supplier group.

[0102] The ordering unit 23D also functions as a creation unit, which is an example of a creation means that accepts a purchase order for an item from a user and creates one sales order corresponding to the accepted purchase order. When a supply supplier group is selected (i.e., when the allocation condition is satisfied), the creation unit creates multiple purchase orders corresponding to one sales order so as to link them to basic sales identification information that identifies the sales order.

[0103] Furthermore, the presentation unit 23H presents to the user sales order information corresponding to the order for the goods. Specifically, the presentation unit 23H presents to the user sales order information indicating the contents of one sales order corresponding to the purchase order. Here, the sales order information is information that specifies the contents of the sales order. Then, the ordering unit 23D places an order for the goods with the selected supply supplier group. Specifically, the ordering unit 23D accepts the user's selection of bulk shipment, and places an order for the quantity of goods allocated by the allocation unit 23C with each supplier in the supply supplier group.

[0104] As described above, the ordering unit 23D, which functions as a creation unit, creates one sales order corresponding to a purchase order, and one or more purchase orders corresponding to the one sales order. Therefore, even if the allocation conditions are met and a supply supplier group is selected, multiple split sales orders are not created. And, even if a supply supplier group is selected, the presentation unit 23H presents sales order information indicating the contents of one sales order to the user.

[0105] Therefore, a user can inspect the delivered goods if they only have information about one sales order. On the other hand, when multiple split sales orders are created, a split sales order number is generated for each split sales order. For example, if there is a split sales order number for each split sales order, the same number of invoices as the number of split sales orders are issued. As a result, the user needs to perform inspection work the same number of times as the number of split sales orders. In contrast, when only one sales order is created, only one invoice is issued. The sales order information presented to the user also corresponds to one sales order. As a result, the inspection work only needs to be performed once, reducing the management burden on the user.

[0106] According to the procurement management system of the second embodiment, the quantity of goods requested by a user can be allocated to multiple sub-suppliers, thereby shortening the period from purchase order to delivery of the goods. Furthermore, when placing a purchase order for a large quantity of goods, the user does not need to calculate the quantity to be purchased from each of multiple suppliers. Furthermore, the user does not need to place purchase orders with each of multiple suppliers. Therefore, calculations and operations when placing a purchase order can be omitted, and the time required for a purchase order can be shortened. Furthermore, since the supply volume of each supplier is dynamically updated, the need to allocate the requested quantity can be determined based on the newer supply volume.

[0107] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to each embodiment, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. The present invention also includes inventions that have been modified without going against the present invention, and inventions equivalent to the present invention. In addition, each embodiment and each modified form can be appropriately combined without going against the present invention.

[0108] For example, inventory management server 10 and procurement management server 20 may be a single server. Furthermore, each logical device provided in inventory management server 10 may be provided in procurement management server 20. Furthermore, each logical device provided in procurement management server 20 may be provided in inventory management server 10. Furthermore, each logical device provided in inventory management server 10 and procurement management server 20 may be provided in separate servers. In this case, the separate servers, inventory management server 10, and procurement management server 20 cooperate to configure a procurement management system.

[0109] [First transformation form] In the description of the first modified embodiment, differences from the first and second embodiments will be described, and the same reference numbers will be used for components that have already been described, and their description will be omitted. Except where otherwise described, components that are given the same reference numbers perform substantially the same operations and functions, and have substantially the same effects.

[0110] The acquisition unit 23A (FIG. 3) acquires request conditions including the requested quantity and delivery date of the item requested by the user, and supply conditions including the supply amount of the item from each of multiple suppliers who can supply the item. The determination unit 23G determines whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among the multiple suppliers is satisfied based on the request conditions and the supply conditions. If the allocation condition is not satisfied, the selection unit 23B selects one supplier from the multiple suppliers. If the allocation condition is satisfied, the selection unit 23B selects two or more suppliers from the multiple suppliers as a supply supplier group.

[0111] The ordering unit 23D functions as a creation unit, which is an example of a creation means that receives a purchase order for an item from a user and creates a sales order corresponding to the received purchase order. When a supplying supplier group is selected, the creation unit creates multiple split sales orders (FIG. 2) for each supplier in the supplying supplier group so as to link the sales order to basic sales identification information. Furthermore, the creation unit creates purchase orders for the suppliers corresponding to each split sales order.

[0112] Then, ordering unit 23D places an order for the goods with one supplier selected by selection unit 23B, or with a group of supply suppliers selected by selection unit 23B. Specifically, ordering unit 23D sends a purchase order to each supplier to place an order for the goods. Furthermore, presentation unit 23H presents sales order information corresponding to the order for the goods to the user. This sales order information specifies the content of each of a plurality of split sales orders. For example, the sales order information includes the delivery date of the goods (for example, the shipping date), the quantity of the goods, and identification information for identifying the purchase order (for example, split sales order identification information consisting of a sales order number and a branch number).

[0113] The selection unit 23B judges whether an obstruction condition that obstructs the supply of the goods by the due date has occurred in a obstruction supplier, which is one of the selected suppliers or at least one of the selected supplying suppliers. The obstruction supplier is a supplier that is unable to supply the goods by the due date. As an example, the selection unit 23B judges that an obstruction condition has occurred when a delay notice is received from the obstruction supplier or when the shipping date of the goods has passed.

[0114] Then, when an inhibiting condition occurs, the selection unit 23B selects at least one alternative supplier from among the multiple suppliers who can supply the quantity of goods ordered from the failed supplier. This alternative supplier is a supplier who can supply the quantity of goods included in the request conditions by the due date of the goods included in the request conditions. The alternative supplier may be one supplier or multiple suppliers. Alternatively, the selection unit 23B may determine that an inhibiting condition has occurred when an administrator of the procurement management server 20 inputs that an inhibiting condition has occurred.

[0115] Then, the ordering unit 23D cancels the order to the failed supplier and places an order for the quantity of goods that was ordered from the failed supplier with an alternative supplier. The presentation unit 23H also functions as a change condition determination unit that determines whether or not a change condition for the sales order information is satisfied. If the change condition for the sales order information is not satisfied, the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is. For example, when the user opens the details screen 92 (FIG. 5), the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is by notifying the user of the sales order information that does not include changes in the details screen 92. Alternatively, the presentation unit 23H may maintain the presentation as is by notifying the user of the sales order information that does not include changes in response to a request from the user.

[0116] On the other hand, when the change conditions for the sales order information are satisfied, the presentation unit 23H presents the change to the sales order information to the user. For example, when there is no alternative supplier who can supply the goods by the delivery date, the presentation unit 23H determines that the change conditions for the sales order information are satisfied, and presents the change to the sales order information to the user. Alternatively, the presentation unit 23H may determine that the change conditions are satisfied when the administrator of the procurement management server 20 inputs that the change conditions are satisfied.

[0117] Specifically, when presenting changes to sales order information, presentation unit 23H presents the contents of the changed split sales order or sales order (e.g., delivery date and quantity of items, etc.) to the user. Also, if the delivery date (e.g., shipping date) changes, presentation unit 23H presents the new delivery date to the user. Furthermore, presentation unit 23H may present changes to the sales order information to the user by highlighting the changes. Furthermore, presentation unit 23H may present to the user whether or not the order needs to be canceled, and the contents of the split sales order or sales order before the change.

[0118] As an example, the creation unit creates a new split sales order when the conditions for changing the sales order information are met. Then, the presentation unit 23H presents the changes to the sales order information to the user by presenting the contents of the new split sales order to the user. Specifically, the presentation unit 23H notifies the user of the contents of the new split sales order (e.g., delivery date of the items, quantity of the items, split sales order identification information, etc.) by email or the like. Alternatively, the presentation unit 23H may present the contents of the new split sales order to be displayed on the details screen 92 when the user opens the details screen 92 (FIG. 5).

[0119] Furthermore, when the number of suppliers supplying goods to the user increases or decreases, the presentation unit 23H determines that the change conditions for the sales order information are met and presents the change to the sales order information to the user. For example, when there are two alternative suppliers for one failed supplier, the number of suppliers supplying goods increases, and the change to the sales order information is presented to the user. Then, the creation unit creates two new split sales orders in place of one split sales order, and the number of split sales orders also increases. Also, when there is one alternative supplier for two failed suppliers, the number of suppliers supplying goods decreases, and the change to the sales order information is presented to the user. Then, the creation unit creates one new split sales order in place of the two split sales orders, and the number of split sales orders also decreases.

[0120] Furthermore, when the quantity of goods supplied by each alternative supplier increases or decreases with respect to the quantity ordered from the faulty supplier (i.e., the allocated quantity), the presentation unit 23H determines that the change conditions for the sales order information are satisfied, and presents the change in the sales order information to the user. For example, when the quantity ordered from one faulty supplier is allocated to two alternative suppliers, the quantity of goods supplied by each alternative supplier decreases with respect to the quantity ordered from the faulty supplier, so the change in the sales order information is presented to the user. Furthermore, when the quantity ordered from two faulty suppliers is allocated to one alternative supplier, the quantity of goods supplied by the alternative supplier increases with respect to the quantity ordered from the faulty supplier, so the change in the sales order information is presented to the user. In these cases, the creation unit creates a new split sales order based on the quantity after the increase or decrease.

[0121] If the change condition is satisfied, the creation unit creates a new split sales order. Then, the user discards the contents (e.g., split sales order identification information) specified by the already presented split sales order, and inspects the delivered goods based on the contents specified by the new split sales order. Therefore, the presentation unit 23H needs to present the contents of the new split sales order to the user. On the other hand, if the delivery date of the goods is not changed because the goods can be supplied by the delivery date, and the number of suppliers and the quantity of goods do not increase or decrease, the change condition is not satisfied. Therefore, the creation unit does not need to create a new split sales order. In this case, even if an obstruction condition occurs, the presentation unit 23H does not present the change to the sales order information to the user. Therefore, the user does not need to discard the split sales order identification information, and an increase in the burden can be suppressed even when an order is placed with an alternative supplier.

[0122] [Suggestion process] With reference to FIG. 11, a presentation process for presenting changes to sales order information to a user when an inhibiting condition occurs that inhibits the supply of goods by the delivery date will be described. FIG. 11 shows a flowchart of the presentation process that can create multiple divided sales orders. First, the ordering unit 23D accepts the purchase order when the user performs an operation to confirm the purchase order. Then, the presentation unit 23H presents the sales order information to the user (S201). For example, when one supplier is selected (i.e., when the allocation condition is not satisfied), the presentation unit 23H presents the user with sales order information (e.g., sales order number, etc.) indicating the contents of one sales order corresponding to the purchase order. Also, when a supply supplier group is selected (i.e., when the allocation condition is satisfied), the presentation unit 23H presents the user with sales order information (e.g., sales order number and branch number, etc.) indicating the contents of multiple divided sales orders corresponding to the purchase order.

[0123] Next, the selection unit 23B judges whether an inhibiting condition has occurred (S202). If an inhibiting condition has not occurred (NO in S202), the process ends. On the other hand, if an inhibiting condition has occurred (YES in S202), the selection unit 23B searches among multiple suppliers for at least one alternative supplier capable of supplying the quantity of goods ordered from the failed supplier (S203). In other words, the selection unit 23B searches for a supplier who can supply the quantity of goods included in the request conditions by the due date of the goods included in the request conditions as an alternative supplier.

[0124] If there is no alternative supplier (NO in S204), the presentation unit 23H determines that the change conditions are met and presents the change to the sales order information (e.g., a new shipping date) to the user (S205). For example, when goods are shipped in bulk, if there is no supplier who can supply the goods in time for the shipping date from the collection point, the selection unit 23B determines that there is no alternative supplier. When goods are shipped in parts, if there is no supplier who can supply the goods in time for the original shipping date by the failed supplier, the selection unit 23B determines that there is no alternative supplier. If there is no alternative supplier, the presentation unit 23H determines that the change conditions are met.

[0125] At this time, the user who is presented with the changes to the sales order information can cancel the order. On the other hand, if the user accepts the change to the shipping date and continues with the order, the creation unit creates a new split sales order or sales order, and creates a purchase order corresponding to the split sales order or sales order (S206). The ordering unit 23D also cancels the order to the faulty supplier (i.e., the purchase order), and orders the quantity of goods that had been ordered from the faulty supplier from an alternative supplier (S207). The presentation unit 23H then presents the new split sales order or sales order to the user in order to present the changes to the sales order information. This ends the presentation process. Note that the user order number is not canceled, but the user may change the user order number.

[0126] On the other hand, if there is an alternative supplier (YES in S204), the selection unit 23B selects the alternative supplier from among the multiple suppliers (S208). The presentation unit 23H also judges whether the change conditions for the sales order information are met. If the number of suppliers supplying goods to the user increases or decreases, the presentation unit 23H judges that the change conditions for the sales order information are met (YES in S209) and presents the change to the sales order information to the user (S205). If the quantity of goods supplied by each alternative supplier increases or decreases compared to the quantity ordered from the failed supplier, the presentation unit 23H also judges that the change conditions for the sales order information are met (YES in S210) and presents the change to the sales order information to the user (S205).

[0127] Then, if the conditions for changing the sales order information are not met (NO in S209 and NO in S210), the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is (S211). In other words, the presentation unit 23H does not present the changes to the sales order information to the user. The creation unit then creates a purchase order corresponding to the split sales order or sales order that has already been created (S206). In addition, the ordering unit 23D cancels the order to the failed supplier and places an order for the quantity of goods that was ordered from the failed supplier with the alternative supplier (S207). This ends the presentation process.

[0128] According to this presentation process, even if an obstruction condition occurs at a faulty supplier and an order is placed with an alternative supplier, if the same number of alternative suppliers as the faulty supplier (NO in S209) and the same quantity of goods as the faulty supplier was scheduled to supply (NO in S210) are supplied, a new split sales order or sales order is not created. Therefore, changes to the sales order information are not presented to the user, and an increase in the burden on the user when ordering from an alternative supplier can be suppressed.

[0129] [Specific example] In the first example, where an inhibiting condition occurs with one of the impaired supplier A, if the entire ordered quantity is to be ordered from the alternative supplier B, the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is. The original single sales order is maintained. Then, a single purchase order is created for the alternative supplier B. Also, although not specifically described below, if an inhibiting condition occurs, the purchase order for the impaired supplier A is canceled.

[0130] In the first example, if part of the ordered quantity is ordered from alternative supplier B and the remaining quantity is ordered from alternative supplier C, the presentation unit 23H presents the changes to the sales order information to the user. This is because in this case, the number of suppliers supplying goods increases. The original single sales order is canceled. Then, two split sales orders and two corresponding purchase orders are created.

[0131] In the second example where the supplying supplier group includes the failed supplier A, supplier B, and supplier C, if the entire ordered quantity is to be ordered from the alternative supplier D, the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is. The original three split sales orders are maintained. Then, one purchase order is created for the alternative supplier D. The two split sales orders for supplier B and supplier C and the two corresponding purchase orders are also maintained.

[0132] In the second example, if a portion of the ordered quantity is ordered from alternative supplier D and the remaining quantity is ordered from alternative supplier E, the presentation unit 23H presents the changes to the sales order information to the user. This is because in this case, the number of suppliers supplying goods increases. Note that one split sales order for the failed supplier A is canceled. Then, two split sales orders and two corresponding purchase orders are created. Also, the two split sales orders for supplier B and supplier C and the two corresponding purchase orders are maintained.

[0133] In the second example, if a portion of the ordered quantity is ordered from alternative supplier B included in the supply supplier group, and the remaining quantity is ordered from alternative supplier C also included in the supply supplier group, the presentation unit 23H presents the changes to the sales order information to the user. This is because in this case, the number of suppliers supplying goods is reduced. Note that one split sales order for the failed supplier A is canceled. Then, two new split sales orders for alternative supplier B and alternative supplier C, and two corresponding purchase orders are created. Also, the quantities of goods ordered have increased in the two new split sales orders.

[0134] In the second example, if a portion of the ordered quantity is ordered from alternative supplier B and alternative supplier C, which are included in the supply supplier group, and the remaining quantity is ordered from a new alternative supplier D, the presentation unit 23H presents the changes to the sales order information to the user. This is because in this case, the quantity of goods to be ordered from alternative supplier B and alternative supplier C increases. Note that one split sales order to the failed supplier A is canceled. Then, three new split sales orders to alternative supplier B, alternative supplier C, and alternative supplier D, and three corresponding purchase orders are created.

[0135] [Second transformation form] In the second modified embodiment, the creation unit creates multiple purchase orders (FIG. 9) without creating a split sales order. In the explanation of the second modified embodiment, the differences from the first modified embodiment and the first and second embodiments will be explained, and the same reference numbers will be used for components that have already been explained, and their explanations will be omitted. Except as otherwise explained, components that are given the same reference numbers perform substantially the same operations and functions, and their actions and effects are also substantially the same.

[0136] The ordering unit 23D functions as a creation unit, which is an example of a creation means that receives a purchase order for an item from a user and creates a sales order corresponding to the received purchase order. When a supply supplier group is selected, the creation unit creates multiple purchase orders corresponding to one sales order so as to link them to basic sales identification information that identifies the sales order. Furthermore, when an inhibiting condition occurs, the creation unit creates a new purchase order corresponding to an alternative supplier. The presentation unit 23H then presents the contents of the new purchase order to the user, thereby presenting the changes to the sales order information to the user.

[0137] Then, the ordering unit 23D cancels the order to the failed supplier and orders the quantity of goods that was ordered from the failed supplier from an alternative supplier. Furthermore, the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information when the change conditions for the sales order information are not met. On the other hand, the presentation unit 23H presents the change to the sales order information to the user when the change conditions for the sales order information are met. For example, when there is no alternative supplier that can supply the goods by the delivery date, the presentation unit 23H determines that the change conditions for the sales order information are met, and presents the change to the sales order information to the user.

[0138] [Suggestion process] With reference to FIG. 12, a presentation process for presenting changes to sales order information to a user when an inhibiting condition occurs will be described. FIG. 12 shows a flowchart of the presentation process for creating one sales order. First, the ordering unit 23D accepts the purchase order when the user performs an operation to confirm the purchase order. Then, the presentation unit 23H presents the sales order information to the user (S301). For example, when one supplier is selected, the presentation unit 23H presents the sales order information indicating the contents of one sales order corresponding to the purchase order to the user. Also, when a supplying supplier group is selected, the presentation unit 23H presents the sales order information indicating the contents of one sales order corresponding to the purchase order to the user.

[0139] Next, the selection unit 23B judges whether an inhibiting condition has occurred (S302). If an inhibiting condition has not occurred (NO in S302), the process ends. On the other hand, if an inhibiting condition has occurred (YES in S302), the selection unit 23B searches among multiple suppliers for at least one alternative supplier capable of supplying the quantity of goods ordered from the failed supplier (S303). In other words, the selection unit 23B searches for a supplier who can supply the quantity of goods included in the request conditions by the due date of the goods included in the request conditions as an alternative supplier.

[0140] If there is no alternative supplier (NO in S304), the presentation unit 23H determines that the change conditions are met and presents the change to the sales order information (e.g., a new shipping date) to the user (S305). At this time, the user who is presented with the change to the sales order information can cancel the order. On the other hand, if the user accepts the change to the shipping date and continues with the order, the creation unit creates a new sales order and a purchase order corresponding to the sales order (S306). In addition, the ordering unit 23D cancels the order to the failed supplier and places an order for the quantity of goods that was ordered from the failed supplier with the alternative supplier (S307). The presentation unit 23H then presents the new sales order to the user in order to present the change to the sales order information. This ends the presentation process.

[0141] On the other hand, if there is an alternative supplier (YES in S304), the selection unit 23B selects an alternative supplier from among the multiple suppliers (S308). Here, unlike the first modified embodiment, even if the number of suppliers increases or decreases or the quantity of goods to be supplied increases or decreases, a new sales order is not created. Therefore, the sales order information is not changed and the change condition of the sales order information is not satisfied, so the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as it is (S309). That is, the presentation unit 23H does not present the change of the sales order information to the user. Then, the creation unit creates a purchase order corresponding to the already created sales order (S306). In addition, the ordering unit 23D cancels the order to the faulty supplier and places an order for the quantity of goods that was ordered from the faulty supplier to the alternative supplier (S307). This ends the presentation process.

[0142] According to this presentation process, even if an inhibiting condition occurs in a failed supplier, as long as there is an alternative supplier, a new sales order is not created. Therefore, changes to the sales order information are not presented to the user, and even if an order is placed with an alternative supplier, an increase in the burden on the user can be suppressed.

[0143] The creation unit also creates one sales order corresponding to the purchase order, and one or more purchase orders corresponding to the sales order. Therefore, even if the allocation conditions are met and a supply supplier group is selected, multiple split sales orders are not created. Then, the presentation unit 23H presents sales order information indicating the contents of one sales order to the user, even if a supply supplier group is selected. Furthermore, even if an inhibiting condition occurs and an alternative supplier is selected, a new sales order is not created. Therefore, the presentation unit 23H does not need to present changes to the sales order information to the user, and can maintain the presentation of the sales order information.

[0144] As a result, except when an inhibiting condition occurs and there is no alternative supplier (i.e., when the change condition of the sales order information is satisfied), the user can inspect the delivered goods if he / she knows one sales order information. On the other hand, when a plurality of split sales orders are created, a split sales order number or the like is generated for each split sales order. For example, when a split sales order number is generated for each split sales order, the same number of slips as the number of split sales orders are issued. As a result, the user needs to perform the inspection work the same number of times as the number of split sales orders. In contrast, when only one sales order is created, only one slip is issued. The sales order information presented to the user also corresponds to one sales order. Therefore, the inspection work is completed only once, and the management burden on the user can be reduced. Note that when the creation unit creates one sales order corresponding to a purchase order, the selection of an alternative supplier when an inhibiting condition occurs may be omitted. Also, when the user performs an operation of selecting the order confirmation button 94E in the consolidated shipping field 94C, the ordering unit 23D may accept the selection of consolidated shipping by the user together with the purchase order. This allows the items to be transported together, so that the user only needs to receive the items once, further reducing the management burden on the user.

[0145] [Specific example] In the first example, where an inhibiting condition occurs with one of the impaired supplier A, if the entire ordered quantity is to be ordered from the alternative supplier B, the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is. The original single sales order is maintained. Then, a single purchase order is created for the alternative supplier B. Also, although not specifically described below, if an inhibiting condition occurs, the purchase order for the impaired supplier A is canceled.

[0146] In the first example, if part of the ordered quantity is ordered from alternative supplier B and the remaining quantity is ordered from alternative supplier C, the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is. The original single sales order is maintained. Then, two purchase orders are created. However, if partial shipments are made by alternative supplier B and alternative supplier C, delivery and inspection work will occur for each supplier even if the shipping date is the same. Therefore, the presentation unit 23H presents a change to the sales order information (for example, a change to partial shipment) to the user.

[0147] In the second example where the supplying supplier group includes the failed supplier A, supplier B, and supplier C, if the entire ordered quantity is to be ordered from the alternative supplier D, the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is. The original single sales order is maintained. Then, one purchase order for the alternative supplier D is created. Also, the two purchase orders for supplier B and supplier C are maintained.

[0148] In the second example, if a portion of the ordered quantity is ordered from alternative supplier D and the remaining quantity is ordered from alternative supplier E, the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is. The original single sales order is maintained. Then, two purchase orders are created. In addition, the two purchase orders for supplier B and supplier C are maintained.

[0149] In the second example, if a portion of the ordered quantity is ordered from alternative supplier B, which is included in the supply supplier group, and the remaining quantity is ordered from alternative supplier C, which is also included in the supply supplier group, the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is. Note that the original single sales order is maintained. Then, two new purchase orders are created for alternative supplier B and alternative supplier C. Also, the quantities of goods ordered have increased in the two new purchase orders.

[0150] In the second example, if a part of the ordered quantity is ordered from alternative supplier B and alternative supplier C included in the supply supplier group, and the remaining quantity is ordered from a new alternative supplier D, the presentation unit 23H maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is. Note that the original single sales order is maintained. Then, three new purchase orders for alternative supplier B, alternative supplier C, and alternative supplier D are created.

[0151] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but is not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0152] (Appendix 1) An acquisition means for acquiring a request condition including a requested quantity of an item requested by a user and a supply condition including a supply amount of the item from each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item; a determination means for determining whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among the plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the requested condition and the supply condition; a selection means for selecting two or more suppliers from the plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group when the allocation condition is satisfied; a creation means for accepting a purchase order for the item from the user and creating a sales order corresponding to the accepted purchase order; ordering means for ordering the item from the selected group of supply suppliers; a presentation means for presenting sales order information corresponding to an order for the item to the user, A procurement management system in which, when the group of supply suppliers is selected, the creation means creates multiple purchase orders corresponding to the sales order so as to link them to basic sales identification information that identifies the sales order, and the presentation means presents the sales order information indicating the contents of one of the sales orders to the user.

[0153] (Appendix 2) further comprising a distribution means for distributing the requested quantity to the supply supplier group; 2. A procurement management system as described in claim 1, wherein the ordering means accepts a selection of bulk shipment by the user and orders the quantity of the items allocated by the allocation means from each supplier in the supply supplier group.

[0154] (Appendix 3) 3. A procurement management system as described in appendix 1 or 2, wherein the sales order information identifies the contents of the sales order.

[0155] (Appendix 4) The selection means selects one specific supplier from the plurality of suppliers, 4. The procurement management system according to claim 1, wherein the determination means determines that the allocation condition is satisfied when the requested quantity is greater than the supply amount of the specific supplier.

[0156] (Appendix 5) A procurement management system as described in Appendix 4, wherein the selection means selects the specific supplier and at least one other supplier different from the specific supplier from among the multiple suppliers as the supply supplier group when the allocation condition is satisfied.

[0157] (Appendix 6) A computer program for a procurement management system including a computer, The computer includes: acquiring request conditions including a requested quantity of an item requested by a user and supply conditions including a supply amount of the item from each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item; determining whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among the plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the requested condition and the supply condition; when the allocation condition is satisfied, two or more suppliers are selected from the plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group; accepting a purchase order for the item from the user and creating a sales order corresponding to the accepted purchase order; ordering the item from the selected group of supply suppliers; having the user submit sales order information corresponding to an order for the item; A computer program for a procurement management system that, when the group of supply suppliers is selected, creates multiple purchase orders corresponding to the sales order so as to link them to basic sales identification information that identifies the sales order, and presents the sales order information indicating the contents of one of the sales orders to the user.

[0158] (Appendix 7) A method for controlling a procurement management system including a computer, comprising: The computer includes: acquiring request conditions including a requested quantity of an item requested by a user and supply conditions including a supply amount of the item from each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item; determining whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among the plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the requested condition and the supply condition; when the allocation condition is satisfied, two or more suppliers are selected from the plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group; accepting a purchase order for the item from the user and creating a sales order corresponding to the accepted purchase order; ordering the item from the selected group of supply suppliers; having the user submit sales order information corresponding to an order for the item; A control method for a procurement management system which, when the group of supply suppliers is selected, creates multiple purchase orders corresponding to the sales order so as to link them to basic sales identification information that identifies the sales order, and presents the sales order information indicating the contents of one of the sales orders to the user. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 10: Procurement management system (inventory management server) 12: Inventory management memory (storage means) 13A:Update section (update means) 20: Procurement management system (Procurement management server) 23: Server control unit (computer) 23A: Acquisition unit (acquisition means) 23B: Selection section (selection means) 23C:Distribution part (distribution means) 23D: Ordering department (ordering means) 23E: Prediction section (prediction means) 23G: Judgment unit (judgment means) 23H: Presentation unit (presentation means) PG: Procurement management program (computer program)

Claims

1. A procurement management system having a computer, The computer includes: Acquire a request condition including a requested quantity and a delivery date of an item requested by a user, and a supply condition including a supply amount of the item from each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item; determining whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among the plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the requested condition and the supply condition; selecting one supplier from among the plurality of suppliers when the allocation condition is not satisfied, and selecting two or more suppliers from the plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group when the allocation condition is satisfied; ordering the item from the selected one supplier or the selected group of supply suppliers; presenting sales order information to the user corresponding to an order for the item; When an impeding condition occurs in a faulty supplier that is the one selected supplier or at least one supplier in the selected group of suppliers that prevents the supply of the item by the delivery date, select at least one alternative supplier from among the multiple suppliers that can supply the item in the quantity that was ordered from the faulty supplier; canceling the order with the faulty supplier and placing an order with the alternative supplier for the quantity of the item that was originally ordered from the faulty supplier; A procurement management system that maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is when the conditions for changing the sales order information are not met, and presents changes to the sales order information to the user when the conditions for changing the sales order information are met.

2. 2. The procurement management system of claim 1, wherein the computer determines that the conditions for changing the sales order information are met when there is no alternative supplier that can supply the item by the delivery date, and presents the changes to the sales order information to the user.

3. The computer, accepting a purchase order for the item from the user and creating a sales order corresponding to the accepted purchase order; When the supplying supplier group is selected, a plurality of split sales orders are created for each supplier of the supplying supplier group so as to be linked to basic sales identification information that identifies the sales order, and a purchase order is created for the supplier corresponding to each split sales order; The procurement management system according to claim 1 , wherein the sales order information identifies the contents of each of the plurality of split sales orders.

4. The computer, creating a new installment sales order when the change conditions for the sales order information are met; 4. The procurement management system according to claim 3, wherein the changes to the sales order information are presented to the user by presenting the contents of the new split sales order to the user.

5. 4. The procurement management system according to claim 3, wherein the computer determines that the conditions for changing the sales order information are satisfied when the number of suppliers supplying the goods to the user increases or decreases, and presents the changes to the sales order information to the user.

6. 4. The procurement management system of claim 3, wherein the computer determines that the conditions for changing the sales order information are met when the quantity of the goods supplied by each alternative supplier increases or decreases compared to the quantity ordered from the failed supplier, and presents the changes to the sales order information to the user.

7. The computer, accepting a purchase order for the item from the user and creating a sales order corresponding to the accepted purchase order; When the group of supply suppliers is selected, a plurality of purchase orders corresponding to the sales order are generated so as to be linked to basic sales identification information that identifies the sales order; The procurement management system according to claim 1 , wherein the sales order information specifies the content of the sales order.

8. The computer, Creating a new purchase order corresponding to said alternative supplier; 8. The procurement management system of claim 7, wherein the changes to the sales order information are presented to the user by presenting the contents of the new purchase order to the user.

9. 3. The procurement management system according to claim 1, wherein the computer determines that the inhibiting condition has occurred when a delay notice is received from the faulty supplier or when a shipping date for the item has passed.

10. The computer, selecting a specific supplier from the plurality of suppliers; The procurement management system according to claim 1 , wherein the allocation condition is determined to be satisfied when the requested quantity is greater than the supply amount of the specific supplier.

11. 11. The procurement management system according to claim 10, wherein when the allocation condition is satisfied, the computer selects, from among the plurality of suppliers, the specific supplier and at least one other supplier different from the specific supplier as the supply supplier group.

12. A computer program for a procurement management system including a computer, The computer includes: acquires a request condition including a requested quantity and a delivery date of an item requested by a user, and a supply condition including a supply amount of the item from each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item; determining whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among the plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the requested condition and the supply condition; selecting one supplier from among the plurality of suppliers when the allocation condition is not satisfied, and selecting two or more suppliers from the plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group when the allocation condition is satisfied; ordering the item from the selected one supplier or the selected group of supply suppliers; having the user submit sales order information corresponding to an order for the item; when an impeding condition occurs in the one selected supplier or at least one supplier in the selected group of suppliers that impedes the supply of the item by the delivery date, at least one alternative supplier capable of supplying the item in the quantity ordered from the impeding supplier is selected from among the multiple suppliers; canceling an order with the faulty supplier and ordering the quantity of the item that was ordered with the faulty supplier from the alternative supplier; A computer program for a procurement management system that maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is when the conditions for changing the sales order information are not met, and presents changes to the sales order information to the user when the conditions for changing the sales order information are met.

13. A method for controlling a procurement management system including a computer, comprising: The computer includes: acquires a request condition including a requested quantity and a delivery date of an item requested by a user, and a supply condition including a supply amount of the item from each of a plurality of suppliers capable of supplying the item; determining whether or not an allocation condition for allocating the requested quantity of the item to two or more suppliers among the plurality of suppliers is satisfied based on the requested condition and the supply condition; selecting one supplier from among the plurality of suppliers when the allocation condition is not satisfied, and selecting two or more suppliers from the plurality of suppliers as a supply supplier group when the allocation condition is satisfied; ordering the item from the selected one supplier or the selected group of supply suppliers; having the user submit sales order information corresponding to an order for the item; when an impeding condition occurs in the one selected supplier or at least one supplier in the selected group of suppliers that impedes the supply of the item by the delivery date, at least one alternative supplier capable of supplying the item in the quantity ordered from the impeding supplier is selected from among the multiple suppliers; canceling an order with the faulty supplier and ordering the quantity of the item that was ordered with the faulty supplier from the alternative supplier; A control method for a procurement management system which maintains the presentation of the sales order information as is when the conditions for changing the sales order information are not met, and presents changes to the sales order information to the user when the conditions for changing the sales order information are met.

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