METHOD AND APPARATUS TO MANAGE NETWORK BASED RETURN PROCESSING

摘要

A method in a client-server environment having a plurality of client systems coupled to a server over a network, the method on the return-processing server for managing the return-processing of one or more manufacturers. The method on the return comprising the steps of: coupling to a database containing information about the procedures for at least one manufacturer's product. The return server presents a return-processing template to at least one client system coupled to the server system over a network, wherein the template comprises a graphical user interface for receiving information regarding at least one product to be submitted for return-processing. The return-processing server the information from the at least one client system of at least one product to be submitted for return-processing. The return-­processing server creating a debit invoice in accordance with the manufacturer's policies for the information received for return-processing from the at least one client system. Placing the debit invoice in a debit invoice database accessible to the one or more manufacturer's to access one or more debit invoices for processing return credit. And sending shipping information to the at least one client system for shipping the at least one product submitted for return-processing. In another embodiment, the products being return are reviewed to determine if one or more products have a date associated with it for expiration. If the product is still usable, the product can be auctioned off or donated to charity. In still another embodiment, a system and computer readable medium for carrying out the above method.