System and method for partner inclusion into an enterprise network

A system of enabling a real time transaction through a web service enabled supplier service network involving at least one supplier and at least one buyer, comprising:

• a process engine operable to execute a plurality of services to perform the real time transaction based on a workflow;
• a database operable to store a plurality of data relating to the real time transaction;
• a display module configured to display information on the real time transaction;
• a payment module adapted for providing a third party payment service for determining and processing payment terms of the at least one buyer or the at least one seller;
• and
• a logistics module adapted for providing a third party logistics service to the at least one buyer or the at least one seller for purchased items using a third party distribution service;
• wherein, the payment service and logistics service are provided using a web service interface.

A computer program product tangibly embodying a plurality of instructions for enabling a real time transaction through a web service enabled supplier service network involving at least one supplier and at least one buyer, comprising:

• a computer readable medium configured to store:
• program code adapted for providing a reverse auction service to the at least one buyer for buying the item proposed by the at least one seller;
• program code adapted for providing a catalog based procurement service to the at least one seller and the at least one buyer;
• program code adapted for providing a payment service for providing credits and/or debits information to the at least one buyer and/or seller using a third party payment service;
• and
• program code adapted for providing a logistics service to the at least one buyer for purchased items using a third party distribution service;
• wherein, the payment service and logistics service are provided using a web service interface.

An automated method of enabling a real time transaction through a web service enabled supplier service network, comprising:

• providing a forward auction service to at least one seller for selling at least one item;
• providing a reverse auction service to at least one buyer for buying the item proposed by the at least one seller;
• and
• providing a catalog based procurement service to the at least one seller and/or the at least one buyer;
• wherein, the payment service and logistics service are provided using a web service interface.