A system for gathering, storing, and updating inventory and product information in real time from a shared, centrally located database through a software application, such as a browser based application. This method generally includes the step of collecting product and inventory data through the use of a mobile device. The transfer of information can be through a Wi-Fi hot-spot, 3G, WiMax or 4G connection or other wireless network. The information will be gathered and automatically transmitted from a hand held device such as a barcode scanner, RFID reader, and the like, to a mobile device using a wireless connection technology, such as Bluetooth™ technology. The gathered information is then transferred to and from the database in real-time as a user manipulates the information within the database. Data will only be stored in the shared, centrally located database. Access to the data by the user will be allowed through an interface, such as a web based interface. The gather information can be used by a third party to order new inventory or resupply existing inventory. Collective purchasing can be accomplished based on the needs of the various users that access the system.