DETERMINING IF A POTENTIAL CUSTOMER IS A DESIRABLE CUSTOMER

A method is taught of determining if a potential customer is a desirable customer. The manufacturer can determine if the potential customer is a potential competitor. If the potential customer can receive technical information from the potential customer and provide a price quotation for certain goods (or services). The manufacturer can determine if the potential customer intends to use a product other than for its intended application. In an embodiment, the potential customer can initially contact the manufacturer through an electronic communication network.In accordance with one feature of the invention, a design is prepared. The design can be prepared in cooperation between the manufacturer and the potential customer or a third party can be included. In accordance with another feature, the potential customer can agree not to disclose technical information. In accordance with a feature of the invention the manufacturer can communicate with the potential customer and internal organizations as the method progresses. In accordance with a feature of the invention, a customer can track work-in-progress after manufacturing has begun. A feature also allows a customer to approve a sample received from the manufacturer.