Program, method, information processing device and system

Abstract

To provide a program for supporting effective use of estimates issued in the past.SOLUTION: A program causes a computer including a processor and a memory to execute a process. The program causes the computer to execute the steps of: receiving an upload of information relating to estimates provided from other business entities; and storing items included in the information relating to the estimates whose upload has been received and characters regarding the items for every classification to which the items belong. The classification includes at least a classification relating to raw materials and a classification relating to the process.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a program, a method, an information processing device, and a system. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a technology that simplifies the task of checking the quotation format and whether or not necessary information has been filled in, and determines the estimated amount by using previously issued quotations (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2003-256689 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In Patent Document 1, the format and estimated unit price of a quotation are created by using previously issued quotations. However, simply creating a new quotation by using previously issued quotations does not mean that the information in the quotation is being effectively utilized.

[0005] The purpose of the present disclosure is to support effective use of quotations issued in the past. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A program to be executed by a computer having a processor and a memory. The program causes the processor to execute the steps of accepting an upload of information related to quotations provided by other business entities, and storing items included in the uploaded information related to the quotations and text for the items for each classification to which the items belong. The classifications include at least classifications related to raw materials and classifications related to processes. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to support effective use of quotations issued in the past. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a system 1. FIG. [Diagram 2] 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a terminal device 10 shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a server 20. [Figure 4] 2 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a first classification table 2021. FIG. [Diagram 5] 13 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a second classification table 2022. FIG. [Figure 6] 13 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a third classification table 2023. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a fourth classification table 2024. [Figure 8] 20 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of an image data table 2025. FIG. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the server 20 when storing information related to a quotation. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing how information contained in an estimate is stored in a different table for each category to which the item belongs. [Figure 11] 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of estimate data displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 12] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the server 20 when assisting a user in making an appraisal based on information related to a quotation. [Figure 13] 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a list of comparison contents displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 14] 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a comparison result displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 15]13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a comparison result displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 16] 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a comparison result displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 17] 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a comparison result displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 18] 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a comparison result displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 19] 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a comparison result displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 20] 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the server 20 when analyzing a predetermined trend for a quotation based on information about the quotation. [Figure 21] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an analysis result displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 22] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an analysis result displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 23] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an analysis result displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Figure 24] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an analysis result displayed on a display 141. FIG. [Diagram 25] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[0010] <Summary> The system according to this embodiment accepts the upload of manufacturing quotations received from suppliers (businesses) by users. A manufacturing quotation is, for example, a document received from a supplier company to ascertain the appropriateness of the price of a procured item before placing an order. In this embodiment, the quotation includes detailed breakdowns of unit prices, such as material costs, processing costs, and management costs. The system extracts specific items and characters related to these items from the updated information, and stores the extracted items and characters for each category to which the items belong.

[0011] The system analyzes certain trends based on the information about the quotations stored in the system, and also presents the user with information that is useful when the user selects a supplier.

[0012] <1 Overall system configuration> Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a system 1. The system 1 shown in Fig. 1 includes, for example, a terminal device 10 and a server 20. The terminal device 10 and the server 20 are communicatively connected via a network 80, for example.

[0013] 1 shows an example in which the system 1 includes two terminal devices 10, but the number of terminal devices 10 included in the system 1 is not limited to two. The terminal device 10 is, for example, a terminal operated by a user who receives a service provided by the server 20. The number of terminal devices 10 included in the system 1 may be one, or three or more.

[0014] 1 shows an example in which the system 1 includes one server 20, but the number of servers 20 included in the system 1 is not limited to one. The server 20 may be composed of multiple servers depending on the functions it has. Also, the server 20 may be, for example, a collection of multiple devices that constitutes one server. The method of allocating multiple functions required to realize the server 20 according to this embodiment to one or multiple pieces of hardware can be appropriately determined in consideration of the processing capacity of each piece of hardware and / or the specifications required for the server 20.

[0015] 1 is, for example, an information processing device operated by a user who receives a service provided by the server 20. The terminal device 10 is realized, for example, by a desktop PC (Personal Computer), a laptop PC, or the like. The terminal device 10 may be, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet. The terminal device 10 may also be a wearable terminal such as an HMD (Head Mount Display) or a wristwatch-type terminal.

[0016] The terminal device 10 includes a communication IF (Interface) 12, an input device 13, an output device 14, a memory 15, a storage 16, and a processor 19. The input device 13 is a device for receiving an input operation from a user (for example, a touch panel, a touch pad, a pointing device such as a mouse, a keyboard, etc.). The output device 14 is a device for presenting information to a user (a display, a speaker, etc.).

[0017] The server 20 is an information processing device that provides services related to quotations in the manufacturing industry. Specifically, the server 20 stores, for example, information related to quotations provided to a user by suppliers. The server 20 provides the user with meaningful information for making decisions based on the quotations, for example, based on the stored information.

[0018] The server 20 is realized by, for example, a computer connected to a network 80. The server 20 includes a communication IF 22, an input / output IF 23, a memory 25, a storage 26, and a processor 29. The input / output IF 23 functions as an interface with an input device for receiving an input operation from a user and an output device for presenting information to the user.

[0019] Each information processing device is configured by a computer having a calculation device and a storage device. The basic hardware configuration of the computer and the basic functional configuration of the computer realized by the hardware configuration will be described later. For each of the terminal device 10 and the server 20, descriptions that overlap with the basic hardware configuration and basic functional configuration of the computer described later will be omitted.

[0020] <1.1 Terminal device configuration> Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device 10 shown in Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the terminal device 10 includes a communication unit 120, an input device 13, an output device 14, an audio processing unit 17, a microphone 171, a speaker 172, a camera 160, a position information sensor 150, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190. The blocks included in the terminal device 10 are electrically connected to each other, for example, by a bus or the like. Note that the audio processing unit 17, the microphone 171, the speaker 172, the camera 160, and the position information sensor 150 are not essential components.

[0021] The communication unit 120 performs processing such as modulation and demodulation processing for the terminal device 10 to communicate with other devices. The communication unit 120 performs transmission processing on a signal generated by the control unit 190 and transmits it to the outside (for example, the server 20). The communication unit 120 performs reception processing on a signal received from the outside (for example, the server 20) and outputs it to the control unit 190.

[0022] The input device 13 is a device for inputting instructions or information by a user who operates the terminal device 10. The input device 13 is realized, for example, by a touch-sensitive device 131 or the like in which an instruction is input by touching an operation surface. The input device 13 converts an instruction input by a user into an electrical signal, and outputs the electrical signal to the control unit 190. Note that the input device 13 may include, for example, a receiving port that receives an electrical signal input from an external input device.

[0023] The output device 14 is a device for presenting information to a user who operates the terminal device 10. The output device 14 is realized, for example, by a display 141 or the like. The display 141 displays data according to the control of the control unit 190. The display 141 is realized, for example, by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display or the like.

[0024] The audio processing unit 17 performs, for example, digital-analog conversion processing of an audio signal. The audio processing unit 17 converts a signal provided from the microphone 171 into a digital signal and provides the converted signal to the control unit 190. The audio processing unit 17 also provides the audio signal to the speaker 172. The audio processing unit 17 is realized, for example, by a processor for audio processing. The microphone 171 accepts audio input and provides an audio signal corresponding to the audio input to the audio processing unit 17. The speaker 172 converts the audio signal provided from the audio processing unit 17 into audio and outputs the audio to the outside of the terminal device 10.

[0025] The camera 160 is a device for receiving light with a light receiving element and outputting the received light as an image capturing signal.

[0026] The position information sensor 150 is a sensor that detects the position of the terminal device 10, and is, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module. The GPS module is a receiving device used in a satellite positioning system. In the satellite positioning system, signals are received from at least three or four satellites, and the current position of the terminal device 10 equipped with the GPS module is detected based on the received signals. The position information sensor 150 may detect the current position of the terminal device 10 from the position of the wireless base station to which the terminal device 10 is connected.

[0027] The storage unit 180 is realized by, for example, a memory, a storage, etc., and stores data and programs used by the terminal device 10. The storage unit 180 stores, for example, estimate information 181.

[0028] The quotation information 181 is, for example, information about a quotation submitted by a supplier. The quotation information 181 is, for example, a data file including information about one or more quotations. The file format of the information about the quotation varies depending on, for example, each supplier, and there are various formats. The information about the quotation may be, for example, an image file or a PDF (registered trademark) file. The PDF data may or may not include text data.

[0029] The control unit 190 is realized by the processor 19 reading a program stored in the storage unit 180 and executing instructions included in the program. The control unit 190 controls the operation of the terminal device 10. The control unit 190 performs functions as an operation reception unit 191, a transmission / reception unit 192, and a presentation control unit 193 by operating according to the program.

[0030] The operation reception unit 191 performs processing for receiving instructions or information input from the input device 13. Specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives instructions or information input from the touch-sensitive device 131 or the like.

[0031] Furthermore, operation acceptance unit 191 accepts an image input from camera 160. Specifically, operation acceptance unit 191 receives image data captured by camera 160, for example.

[0032] Furthermore, the operation reception unit 191 receives audio information input from the microphone 171. Specifically, for example, the operation reception unit 191 receives audio data that is input from the microphone 171 and converted into digital data by the audio processing unit 17.

[0033] The transmitting / receiving unit 192 performs processing for the terminal device 10 to transmit and receive data to and from an external device such as the server 20 in accordance with a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmitting / receiving unit 192 transmits information related to the quotation stored in the quotation information 181 to the server 20. In addition, the transmitting / receiving unit 192 receives information output from the server 20.

[0034] The presentation control unit 193 controls the output device 14 to display a predetermined image for the user. For example, the presentation control unit 193 causes the display 141 to display an image based on information provided from the server 20. More specifically, for example, the presentation control unit 193 requests the server 20 to provide an image related to information specified by the user via the terminal device 10. The presentation control unit 193 causes the display 141 to display an image based on information provided from the server 20 in response to the request.

[0035] <1.2 Functional configuration of the server> 3 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the server 20. As shown in FIG. 3, the server 20 fulfills the functions of a communication unit 201, a storage unit 202, and a control unit 203.

[0036] The communication unit 201 performs processing for the server 20 to communicate with external devices.

[0037] Storage unit 202 has, for example, first classification table 2021, second classification table 2022, third classification table 2023, fourth classification table 2024, image data table 2025, etc. Note that the tables stored in storage unit 202 are not limited to these. Storage unit 202 does not need to have a table relating to at least any of the classifications among first classification table 2021, second classification table 2022, third classification table 2023, and fourth classification table 2024. Storage unit 202 may also have a table that stores information relating to the fifth and subsequent classifications.

[0038] The first classification table 2021 is a table that stores information related to the first classification in the estimate. In this embodiment, the first classification in the estimate represents, for example, an "estimate summary." The first classification, "estimate summary," includes, for example, a plurality of items related to the estimate summary. The first classification table 2021 stores, for example, characters for each item belonging to the "estimate summary." Details will be described later. In this embodiment, the characters include alphabets, numbers, and the like.

[0039] The second classification table 2022 is a table that stores information related to the second classification in the estimate. In this embodiment, the second classification in the estimate represents, for example, "parts." For example, a plurality of items related to parts belong to the second classification "parts." For example, the second classification table 2022 stores characters for each item belonging to "parts." Details will be described later.

[0040] The third classification table 2023 is a table that stores information related to the third classification in the estimate. In this embodiment, the third classification in the estimate represents, for example, "materials." For example, a plurality of items related to materials belong to the third classification "materials." For example, the third classification table 2023 stores characters for each item belonging to "materials." Details will be described later.

[0041] The fourth classification table 2024 is a table that stores information related to the fourth classification in the estimate. In this embodiment, the fourth classification in the estimate represents, for example, a "process." For example, a plurality of items related to processes belong to the fourth classification, "process." For example, characters for each item belonging to "process" are stored in the fourth classification table 2024. Details will be described later.

[0042] The image data table 2025 is a table for storing image data related to estimates, which will be described in detail later.

[0043] The control unit 203 is realized by the processor 29 reading a program stored in the storage unit 202 and executing instructions included in the program. The control unit 203 performs functions as a reception control module 2031, a transmission control module 2032, a memory control module 2033, an analysis module 2034, an assist module 2035, and a presentation control module 2036 by operating according to the program.

[0044] The reception control module 2031 controls reception processing for signals transmitted in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the reception control module 2031 performs reception processing for signals transmitted from the terminal device 10. In addition, the reception control module 2031 may obtain information related to estimates stored in the terminal device 10 by cloning.

[0045] The transmission control module 2032 controls the process in which the server 20 transmits a signal to an external device in accordance with a communication protocol. Specifically, for example, the transmission control module 2032 transmits information related to an image to be displayed to the terminal device 10.

[0046] The storage control module 2033 controls the process of storing information related to quotations in the storage unit 202. Specifically, for example, the storage control module 2033 stores items included in the information related to quotations that has been uploaded, and text for the items, in association with a preset classification to which the items belong.

[0047] The analysis module 2034 performs analysis using information about quotations stored by the user and entities related to the user in the storage unit 202. For example, the analysis module 2034 reads values ​​for two or more items set as analysis targets from the storage unit 202, and analyzes a predetermined trend using the read values.

[0048] The assist module 2035 uses information about quotations stored by the user and an entity related to the user in the storage unit 202 to present the user with information that is meaningful to the user when making an assessment. For example, the assist module 2035 compares the uploaded quotation with information based on quotations previously stored by the user or an entity related to the user.

[0049] The presentation control module 2036 presents to the user information relating to the estimate stored in the storage unit 202 and information that is meaningful to the user based on the estimate.

[0050] <2 Data Structure> 4 to 8 are diagrams showing the data structures of tables stored in the server 20. Note that Fig. 4 to 8 are merely examples and do not exclude data that is not listed. In addition, data that is listed in the same table may be stored in separate storage areas in the storage unit 202.

[0051] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the first classification table 2021. The first classification table 2021 shown in Fig. 4 is a table having columns such as a quotation URL, product number, product name, supplier name, applicable model, quotation creation date, base number, base number unit, material cost subtotal, processing cost subtotal, unit price, product weight, etc., with a quotation ID and a quotation record ID as keys. Note that the first classification table 2021 may not have at least one of these columns, or may have columns other than these.

[0052] The quotation ID is an item that stores an identifier for uniquely identifying a quotation. The quotation record ID is an item that stores an identifier for identifying a record within the same quotation. Within the same quotation, the fee may vary depending on certain conditions. The quotation record ID is assigned a consecutive number for each condition, for example.

[0053] The quotation URL is a field that stores reference information (path) for the data file related to the quotation. The part number is a field that stores the number assigned to the part. The product name is a field that stores the name of the part. The supplier name is a field that stores the name of the supplier, that is, the company that manufactures the part. The applicable model is a field that stores the model of the product to which the part is applied. The quotation creation date is a field that stores the date on which the quotation was created.

[0054] The base number is an item that stores the monthly or annual production quantity used as a prerequisite for calculating price in an estimate for a unit price contract. The base number may be expressed, for example, as estimated base number, set number, annual quantity, monthly production number, etc. The base number unit is an item that stores the unit of the base number. For example, the base number unit is stored so that units such as pieces / month or pieces / year can be selected. The material cost subtotal is an item that stores the subtotal of material costs. The material cost subtotal may be expressed as total material costs. The processing cost subtotal is an item that stores the subtotal of processing costs. The processing cost subtotal may be expressed as total processing costs. The unit price is an item that stores the price per part. The product weight is an item that stores the weight per part.

[0055] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the second classification table 2022. The second classification table 2022 shown in Fig. 5 is a table having columns such as part supplier, quantity, purchased part unit price, total purchased part cost, procurement category, etc., with quotation ID, quotation record ID, parent part number, parent part name, part_part number, and part_name as keys. Note that the second classification table 2022 may not have at least one of these columns, or may have columns other than these.

[0056] Parent part number is a field that stores a number assigned to the parent item in the parent-child relationship shown in the product configuration. Parent item name is a field that stores the name of the parent item. Part_part number is a field that stores a number assigned to the part that is the subject of the quotation. Part_name is a field that stores the name of the part that is the subject of the quotation. Part supplier is a field that stores the supplier (supplier), in other words, the name of the company that manufactures the part. Quantity is a field that stores the smallest unit when purchasing a part. Purchased part unit price is a field that stores the fee when purchasing a part in the smallest unit. Purchased part total cost is a field that stores the total purchasing cost of the parts. Procurement category is a field that stores the category related to procurement.

[0057] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the third classification table 2023. The third classification table 2023 shown in Fig. 6 is a table having columns such as material part number, material name, material unit price, material unit price unit, input amount, input unit price, scrap unit price, scrap weight, material cost, thickness, width, pitch, diameter, length, etc., with quotation ID, quotation record ID, parent part_product number, parent part_product name, part_product number, and part_product name as keys. Note that the third classification table 2023 may not have at least one of these columns, or may have columns other than these.

[0058] Parent part_product number is a field that stores the number assigned to the parent part in the parent-child relationship shown in the product configuration. Parent part_name is a field that stores the name of the parent part. Material part number is a field that stores the number assigned to the material used. Material name is a field that stores the name of the material used. Material unit price is a field that stores the unit price per weight of the material used. Material unit price unit is a field that stores the unit price and the corresponding unit of weight.

[0059] The input amount is an item that stores the weight of material input to manufacture one part. The input unit cost is an item that stores the unit cost of material input to manufacture one part. The scrap unit cost is an item that stores the weight of scrap (recyclable material) generated when manufacturing one part. The scrap weight is an item that stores the purchase price of scrap (recyclable material). The material cost is an item that stores the total material cost. The material cost can be calculated, for example, using the following formula. Note that items that are simply thrown away and not specifically recycled are not deducted from the material cost. Material cost = Input weight x Material unit price - Scrap weight x Scrap unit price

[0060] The thickness, width, and pitch are items that are stored when the part is a plate material or a coil material, whereas the diameter and length are items that are stored when the part is a bar material or a wire material.

[0061] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the fourth classification table 2024. The fourth classification table 2024 shown in Fig. 7 is a table having columns such as part number, process name, equipment name, number of pieces, number of times, setup time, processing man-hours, total man-hours, total man-hour unit, man rate, machine rate, total wage rate, total wage rate unit, processing cost, etc., with quotation ID, quotation record ID, parent part_product number, parent part_product name, part_product number, and part_product name as keys. Note that the fourth classification table 2024 may not have at least one of these columns, or may have columns other than these.

[0062] The number of parts used is an item that stores the number of parts used in the machining process. The process name is an item that stores the name of the machining process. The equipment name is an item that stores the name of the equipment used in the machining process. The number of takes is an item that stores the quantity that indicates how many parts can be made from one process. The number of times is an item that stores the number of processes included in the machining process. The setup time is an item that stores the time required to prepare the equipment, tools, etc. before starting the machining process. The machining labor hours is an item that stores the work time required in the machining process. The total labor hours is an item that stores the time obtained by adding up the setup time and the machining labor hours. The total labor hour unit is an item that stores the unit of the total labor hours. The man rate is an item that stores the hourly cost of labor related to the machining process. The machine rate is an item that stores the hourly cost of the equipment related to the machining process. The total labor rate is an item that stores the time obtained by adding up the machine rate and the man rate. The total labor hour unit is an item that stores the unit of the total labor hour. The processing cost is an item for storing the total processing cost. The processing cost can be calculated, for example, by the following formula. Processing cost = wage rate x working time or Processing cost = total rate x total labor hours

[0063] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of image data table 2025. Image data table 2025 shown in Fig. 8 is a table having columns such as quotation ID, quotation record ID, image URL, etc. Note that image data table 2025 may have columns other than these. Image URL is an item that stores reference information (path) for image data related to a quotation.

[0064] <3 operations> The operation of the server 20 when the server 20 processes information regarding the quotation will be described.

[0065] (Storage processing of information regarding quotes) FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the server 20 when storing information related to an estimate.

[0066] First, the user receives a quotation from the supplier. A quotation is a document received from a supplier to ascertain the appropriateness of the price of a procured item before placing an order, and includes a detailed breakdown of the unit price (total amount) such as material costs, processing costs, and management costs. The user receives a quotation in writing from the supplier, for example. Receiving a quotation in writing includes, for example, receiving a quotation by fax.

[0067] When the user receives the estimate, the user scans the received estimate. The user may scan multiple estimates in succession. The terminal device 10 carried by the user receives the image data generated by the scan, and stores the received image data in the storage unit 180 as estimate information 181. The file format of the image data may be any of, for example, TIFF, JPEG, PDF, etc.

[0068] For example, the terminal device 10 launches a web browser in accordance with a user's operation input via the input device 13, and accesses a website where the service is provided. The terminal device 10 uploads the stored quotation information 181 to the server 20. The terminal device 10 may upload the quotation information 181 to the server 20 by executing an application related to the service. Note that, if the terminal device 10 has a scanner function, image data may be uploaded to the server 20 from the terminal device 10 as a scanner.

[0069] In step S11, the server 20 accepts uploading of information related to a quotation. Specifically, for example, the control unit 203 of the server 20 receives the quotation information 181 transmitted from the terminal device 10 via the reception control module 2031. That is, the reception control module 2031 receives, for example, free-form image data.

[0070] In step S12, the server 20 stores items included in the information related to the estimate and characters for the items for each category to which the items belong. Specifically, for example, the storage control module 2033 performs OCR processing on the estimate information 181 and converts the characters included in the estimate information 181 into character codes. The storage control module 2033 associates the items with the characters input for the items. The storage control module 2033 stores the acquired characters in a table of a category according to the items associated with the characters.

[0071] Specifically, the memory control module 2033 associates characters entered for the items of product number, product name, supplier name, applicable model, estimate creation date, reference number, reference number unit, material cost subtotal, processing cost subtotal, unit price, and product weight with the category: “quotation summary”, and stores them in the corresponding items in the first classification table 2021. The memory control module 2033 also associates characters entered for the items of parts supplier, quantity, purchased part unit price, purchased part cost total, and procurement category with the category: “parts”, and stores them in the corresponding items in the second classification table 2022. The memory control module 2033 also associates characters entered for the items of material product number, material name, material unit price, material unit price unit, input amount, input unit price, scrap unit price, scrap weight, material cost, thickness, width, pitch, diameter, and length with the category: “material”, and stores them in the corresponding items in the third classification table 2023. In addition, the memory control module 2033 associates characters entered in the items, for example, parts_number of pieces used, process name, equipment name, number of takes, number of times, setup time, processing man-hours, total man-hours, total man-hour unit, man rate, machine rate, total wage rate, total wage rate unit, and processing cost, with the classification: "process" and stores them in the corresponding item in the fourth classification table 2024.

[0072] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of information written in a quotation being stored in a different table for each classification to which the item belongs. According to FIG. 10, for example, items corresponding to the quotation creation date and the supplier name are written in the area 101, items corresponding to the part number, the product name, the applicable model, the reference number, the reference number unit, and the product weight are written in the area 102, and items corresponding to the material cost subtotal, the processing cost subtotal, and the unit price are written in the areas 105 and 106. The storage control module 2033 associates the characters written in these items with the classification: "summary of quotation" and stores them in the corresponding items in the first classification table 2021. Also, according to FIG. 10, for example, items corresponding to the material part number, the material name, the material unit price, the material unit price unit, the input amount, the input unit price, the scrap unit price, the scrap weight, the material cost, the thickness, the width, the pitch, the diameter, and the length are written in the area 103. The storage control module 2033 associates the characters entered for these items with the category: "material" and stores them in the corresponding category in the third classification table 2023. Also, according to FIG. 10, for example, items corresponding to parts_number of pieces used, process name, equipment name, number of pieces taken, number of times, setup time, processing man-hours, total man-hours, total man-hour unit, man rate, machine rate, total wage rate, total wage rate unit, and processing cost are described in the area 104. The storage control module 2033, for example, associates the characters entered for these items with the category: "process" and stores them in the corresponding category in the fourth classification table 2024. Also, according to FIG. 10, for example, items corresponding to parts supplier, number, purchased part unit price, purchased part cost total, and procurement category are described in a predetermined area (not shown). The storage control module 2033 associates the characters entered for these items with the category: "parts" and stores them in the corresponding category in the second classification table 2022.

[0073] There are various methods for the storage control module 2033 to associate an item with a character input for that item. While an existing technology may be adopted for this method, the storage control module 2033 adopts, for example, the following method.

[0074] (1) First method The storage control module 2033, for example, arranges characters that are assumed to represent values ​​in the estimate, among the characters coded by OCR processing, in a predetermined order. The characters that are assumed to represent values ​​in the estimate are, for example, not characters that represent items, but characters represented by numbers or letters. The predetermined order is, for example, an order obtained by arranging characters that appear when moving the viewpoint from left to right on a line in the estimate, arranging the characters in the relevant line, and then moving to the next line and repeating the same process.

[0075] The storage control module 2033 inputs the characters arranged in a predetermined order to the trained model. The trained model is, for example, a model for arranging the order of the input character group by associating it with items in the estimate. The trained model may be stored in the server 20 or in another server.

[0076] The trained model is generated by, for example, having a machine learning model perform machine learning according to a model learning program. The trained model is, for example, a parameterized composite function in which a plurality of functions are combined. The parameterized composite function is defined by a combination of a plurality of adjustable functions and parameters. The trained model according to the present embodiment may be any parameterized composite function that satisfies the above requirements. For example, the trained model may be realized by a model such as LSTM (Long short-term memory), Transformer, BERT (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers), GPT-3 (Generative Pre-Training3) for natural language processing. The trained model may also be a large-scale language model.

[0077] The trained model is trained, for example, to output an input string of characters in a desired order that corresponds the characters to items on a quotation. The trained model may be trained, for example, by supervised learning, or may be trained by both supervised learning and reinforcement learning. The trained model may be a general-purpose model that can handle quotations provided by multiple suppliers, or may be a supplier-specific model that has learned the contents of the quotation for each supplier.

[0078] The memory control module 2033 acquires data in which characters are associated with items of an estimate, which is output from the trained model. The memory control module 2033 identifies the items associated with the characters included in the acquired data. The memory control module 2033 determines the classification to which the identified items belong. The memory control module 2033 stores the characters included in the acquired data in a column of the corresponding item in a table for the determined classification.

[0079] (2) Second Method The storage control module 2033 extracts characters that are registered in advance as items from characters coded by, for example, OCR processing. The extracted characters may be the same as the characters set in advance, or may allow a predetermined range of meaning. When the storage control module 2033 extracts characters that are registered in advance as items, it extracts characters that are in a predetermined positional relationship with the extracted characters. The characters that are in a predetermined positional relationship with the extracted characters are, for example, characters related to each value of the item that are entered in a predetermined direction and at a predetermined distance from the item. The storage control module 2033 associates characters that represent the items with characters related to the values ​​of the items. The storage control module 2033 may convert the characters extracted as items into characters that are registered in advance, and associate them with characters related to the values ​​of the items.

[0080] The extraction of characters representing an item by the storage control module 2033 may be performed, for example, by a trained model. At this time, the trained model is trained, for example, to output characters representing an item for input characters. Furthermore, the extraction of characters in a predetermined positional relationship with the extracted characters by the third classification table 2023 may be performed, for example, by a trained model. At this time, the trained model is trained, for example, to extract characters in a predetermined position for an input position.

[0081] The storage control module 2033 identifies an item associated with the character associated with the value. The storage control module 2033 determines a classification to which the identified item belongs. The storage control module 2033 stores the character associated with the value in a column of the corresponding item in a table for the determined classification.

[0082] (3) The third method The storage control module 2033 extracts characters that are registered in advance as classifications from characters coded by, for example, OCR processing. The extracted characters may be the same as the characters set in advance, or may allow a predetermined range of meanings. When the storage control module 2033 extracts the characters that are registered in advance as classifications, it identifies an area that has a predetermined positional relationship with the extracted characters based on the image data. The area that has a predetermined positional relationship with the extracted characters is, for example, an area that represents a table in which information related to the classification is written.

[0083] The storage control module 2033 extracts characters that are registered in advance as items from the identified area. The extracted characters may be the same as the characters set in advance, or may allow a predetermined range of meaning. When the storage control module 2033 extracts the characters that are registered in advance as items, it extracts characters that are in a predetermined positional relationship with the extracted characters. The characters that are in a predetermined positional relationship with the extracted characters are, for example, characters related to each value of the item that are entered in a predetermined direction and a predetermined distance away from the item. The storage control module 2033 associates the characters that represent the item with the characters related to the value of the item. The storage control module 2033 may convert the characters extracted as items to characters that are registered in advance and associate them with the characters related to the value of the item. The storage control module 2033 stores the characters related to the value in a column of the corresponding item in a table for the classification to which the item belongs.

[0084] The extraction of the characters representing the classification by the memory control module 2033 may be performed, for example, by a trained model. At this time, the trained model is trained, for example, to output the characters representing the classification for the input characters. Also, the identification of the area by the third classification table 2023 may be performed, for example, by a trained model. At this time, the trained model is trained, for example, to extract a predetermined area for a position in the input image.

[0085] In the above description, the quotation that the user receives from the supplier is not limited to a written one. The user may obtain the quotation from the supplier as a data file such as PDF or Excel (registered trademark). This eliminates the need for a scanner.

[0086] In the above description, the OCR process is performed in the server 20, but the OCR process may be performed by a scanner. The OCR process may also be performed by the terminal device 10. In this case, the information uploaded from the terminal device 10 or the scanner includes, for example, coded character information in addition to image data.

[0087] In the above description, the terminal device 10 uploads image data, but the information uploaded by the terminal device 10 is not limited to image data. Based on the received quotation, the user may input values ​​related to the items into a predetermined form, and upload the form with the values ​​input to the server 20. The storage control module 2033 associates the items and character sets with classifications that are set in advance for the items. In other words, the storage control module 2033 stores the acquired characters in a table of classifications according to the items associated with the characters.

[0088] In the above description, the storage control module 2033 associates an item with a character input for the item, but an information processing device other than the system 1 may associate an item with a character input for the item. The server 20 acquires the items and characters associated in the other system. The storage control module 2033 associates a classification set in advance for the item with a set of the item and the character. In other words, the storage control module 2033 stores the acquired character in a table of classification according to the item associated with the character.

[0089] Also, in the above description, when data is stored in the storage unit 202, the presentation control module 2036 may present the data stored in the storage unit 202 to the user of the terminal device 10. This allows the user to check whether the data conversion is correct. The user checks the estimate presented by the server 20, and if there are any items that are incomplete or could not be converted, corrects these items or the values ​​of these items. The storage control module 2033 updates the data stored in the storage unit 202 in response to a correction instruction from the user.

[0090] Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of quotation data displayed on the display 141. In Fig. 11, the presentation control unit 193 displays the data stored in the storage unit 202 in a list in an area 1411. The presentation control unit 193 displays the information described in the quotation in a list by classification. Since items are described by classification and the item names are also described in advance, the effort required of the user to check the contents of the digitized quotation is reduced.

[0091] 11, the presentation control unit 193 displays image data of an estimate in an area 1412. The presentation control unit 193 may display a guide so that the user can visually see where the item displayed in the area 1411 corresponds in the image displayed in the area 1412.

[0092] Also, in the above description, the presentation control module 2036 may be configured to propose a quotation format that is less likely to cause data conversion errors. For example, the presentation control module 2036 may be configured to propose items that are easy to store information in the storage unit 202, and a quotation in which such items are arranged. Specifically, for example, a template format is stored in the storage unit 202. For example, when a quotation format is requested by a user, the presentation control module 2036 provides the user with the template format. In other words, the presentation control module 2036 suggests to the user the arrangement of information in the quotation.

[0093] (Appraisal Assist Processing) Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the server 20 when assisting a user in making an appraisal based on information about a quotation. The process shown in Fig. 12 is executed, for example, after information about the quotation is stored in the server 20 according to the flow shown in Fig. 9.

[0094] In step S21, the server 20 confirms with the user whether or not appraisal assistance is required. Specifically, for example, when the storage control module 2033 stores information about the estimate in the server 20, it notifies the terminal device 10 that the storage of the estimate is complete. For example, the assist module 2035 causes the terminal device 10 to display a confirmation area for confirming whether or not appraisal assistance is required, together with the notification that the storage of the estimate is complete.

[0095] When the user requires appraisal assistance, the user inputs a request for appraisal assistance in a confirmation area displayed on the terminal device 10. The terminal device 10 transmits the instruction input by the user to the server 20.

[0096] In step S22, the server 20 accepts the instruction transmitted from the terminal device 10.

[0097] In step S23, the server 20 presents the user with a list of comparison contents of the estimate. Specifically, for example, when an appraisal assistance is requested from the terminal device 10, the assist module 2035 presents the user with a list of comparison contents that can be performed on the estimate stored in the previous stage. Comparisons that can be performed on the stored estimate include, for example, the following. Note that the comparisons that can be performed on the stored estimate are not limited to the following, and there may be other comparisons. Compare quotes for similar parts -Comparison with quotations submitted by other suppliers from which you have received competitive bids (only if quotations submitted by other suppliers have been stored first) -Compare with quotations for parts with the same part number Compare with quotations submitted by the same supplier -Comparison with values ​​calculated based on values ​​included in past quotations

[0098] When comparing the newly stored estimate with the above estimate, the assist module 2035 may calculate the component ratio of the price for each category.

[0099] The assist module 2035 may store in advance key items when selecting quotations to be compared. Also, the assist module 2035 may set key items when selecting quotations to be compared based on an input from a user.

[0100] The assist module 2035 acquires multiple thumbnail images representing the comparison contents. Specifically, for example, the assist module 2035 creates multiple thumbnail images representing the comparison contents. Alternatively, multiple thumbnail images representing the comparison contents are stored in the storage unit 202, and the assist module 2035 reads out the thumbnail images from the storage unit 202. The presentation control module 2036 presents a list of thumbnail images representing the comparison contents to the user.

[0101] Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a list of comparison contents displayed on the display 141. In Fig. 13, the presentation control unit 193 displays six thumbnail images representing the comparison contents on the display 141. The presentation control unit 193 associates the thumbnail images with names representing the comparison contents. If the comparison results have already been created, the presentation control unit 193 associates the thumbnail images with the date and time when the comparison results were created.

[0102] In FIG. 13, the presentation control unit 193 displays on the display 141 a thumbnail image of "similar parts comparison" representing a comparison with quotations for similar parts. The presentation control unit 193 also displays on the display 141 a thumbnail image of "comparative quotation comparison" representing a comparison with quotations submitted by other suppliers. If the quotations that are the subject of the competitive quotations are not stored in the storage unit 202, the thumbnail image of "comparative quotation comparison" may not be displayed. The presentation control unit 193 also displays on the display 141 a thumbnail image of "same part number past quotation comparison" representing a comparison with quotations for parts with the same part number. The presentation control unit 193 also displays on the display 141 a thumbnail image of "same supplier past quotation comparison" representing a comparison with quotations submitted by the same supplier. The presentation control unit 193 also displays on the display 141 a thumbnail image of "cost table comparison" representing a comparison with a value calculated based on values ​​included in a group of past quotations. In addition, when comparing quotations, the presentation control unit 193 causes the display 141 to display thumbnail images of "price composition comparison" showing the composition ratio of the prices for each category.

[0103] The presentation control module 2036 may present a list of names indicating the comparison contents to the user instead of presenting a list of thumbnail images.

[0104] The user selects at least one of the comparison contents from the comparison contents displayed on the display 141. The terminal device 10 transmits to the server 20 an instruction to select the comparison contents input by the user.

[0105] In step S24, the server 20 presents the user with a comparison result according to the comparison content selected by the user. Specifically, for example, the assist module 2035 reads information related to the comparison content selected by the user from the storage unit 202. For example, the assist module 2035 reads information related to the comparison content selected by the user from information previously stored in the storage unit 202 by the user.

[0106] For example, when the user selects "Compare Similar Parts," the assist module 2035 reads out information about parts similar to the parts related to the stored estimate from the storage unit 202. Similar parts refer to parts that have a predetermined correlation in part numbers and names, for example. The similar parts may be selected by the assist module 2035 or may be selected by the user. The assist module 2035 may select multiple types of similar parts, or may select one type of similar part.

[0107] The information about similar parts is, for example, information read from the latest quotation. Note that the information about similar parts is not limited to information read from the latest quotation. The information about similar parts may be, for example, information to which a predetermined flag (adopted flag, latest flag, etc.) is attached. The information about similar parts may be, for example, information read from a quotation stored a predetermined period of time ago. Also, the information about similar parts may be, for example, information obtained by performing statistical processing on information stored during a predetermined period of time (average value, median value, etc.).

[0108] Based on the read information, the assist module 2035 arranges the information for each item related to the similar parts in a manner that allows comparison with the information for each item related to the comparison source part. The assist module 2035 may display information of items that should be noted in a manner that allows distinction from information of other items. The assist module 2035 may change the display manner based on differences from the information of the comparison source. The presentation control module 2036 presents an image of the result of arranging the information to the user.

[0109] Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the comparison result displayed on the display 141. In Fig. 14, the presentation control unit 193 displays information about the currently uploaded quotation, which is the comparison source, in an area 1413. The presentation control unit 193 displays information about the quotation of a similar part, which is the comparison target, in an area 1414. In Fig. 14, the presentation control unit 193 displays the value of the material unit price in a manner that makes it distinguishable from information of other items. Furthermore, the presentation control unit 193 changes the display manner depending on whether the value is lower or higher than the material unit price of the comparison source.

[0110] For example, when the user selects "Compare competitive quotations," the assist module 2035 reads information about the stored estimates and the estimates for which competitive quotations have been obtained from the storage unit 202. The estimates for which competitive quotations have been obtained are identified, for example, based on information indicating that they are the subject of competitive quotations. For example, when multiple quotations for which competitive quotations have been obtained are stored, the assist module 2035 reads information about the multiple quotations from the storage unit 202.

[0111] Based on the read information, the assist module 2035 arranges information for each item of the comparative estimate in a manner that allows comparison with information for each item of the comparison source estimate. The assist module 2035 may display information of items that should be noted in a manner that allows distinction from information of other items. The assist module 2035 may change the display manner based on differences from the comparison source information. The presentation control module 2036 presents an image of the result of arranging the information to the user.

[0112] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the comparison result displayed on the display 141. In FIG. 15, the presentation control unit 193 displays information on the currently uploaded quotation, which is the comparison source, in an area 1415. The presentation control unit 193 displays information on the quotation for which competitive quotations have been obtained, which is the comparison target, in an area 1416. In FIG. 15, the presentation control unit 193 displays the value of the material unit price in a manner that makes it distinguishable from the information of other items. Furthermore, the presentation control unit 193 changes the display manner depending on whether the value is lower or higher than the material unit price of the comparison source.

[0113] For example, when the user selects “Compare past quotations from the same supplier,” the assist module 2035 reads from the memory unit 202 information on quotations for the same parts delivered by the same supplier as the supplier related to the stored quotation.

[0114] The assist module 2035, for example, reads out information about one or more quotations for the same part delivered by the same supplier from the storage unit 202. Specifically, for example, the assist module 2035 reads out information about a preset number of quotations going back from the most recent quotation from the storage unit 202. The assist module 2035 may also read out information about a preset number of quotations whose quotation creation dates are separated by a predetermined interval from the storage unit 202.

[0115] Based on the read information, the assist module 2035 arranges information for each item of a quotation in which the same supplier has delivered the same parts in a manner that allows comparison with information for each item of the quotation to be compared. The assist module 2035 may display information of an item that should be noted in a manner that allows it to be distinguished from information of other items. The assist module 2035 may change the display manner based on differences from the information to be compared. The presentation control module 2036 presents an image of the result of arranging the information to the user.

[0116] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the comparison result displayed on the display 141. In FIG. 16, the presentation control unit 193 displays information about the currently uploaded quotation, which is the comparison source, in an area 1417. The presentation control unit 193 displays information about quotations delivered by the same supplier for the same parts, which is the comparison target, in an area 1418. In FIG. 16, the presentation control unit 193 displays the value of the material unit price in a manner that makes it distinguishable from information of other items. Furthermore, the presentation control unit 193 changes the display manner depending on whether the value is lower or higher than the material unit price value of the comparison source.

[0117] For example, when the user selects "Compare past quotations for the same part number," the assist module 2035 reads out information about a part with the same part number as the part related to the stored quotation from the storage unit 202. The assist module 2035 reads out, for example, information about quotations delivered from different suppliers from the storage unit 202. When there are multiple suppliers who have delivered quotations for the same part, the assist module 2035 reads out information about quotations delivered from the multiple different suppliers from the storage unit 202.

[0118] An estimate for the same part delivered from a different supplier is, for example, the latest estimate for the same part delivered from that supplier. Note that an estimate for the same part delivered from a different supplier is not limited to the latest estimate. An estimate for the same part delivered from a different supplier may be, for example, an estimate with a predetermined flag (adopted flag, latest flag, etc.). An estimate for the same part delivered from a different supplier may be, for example, an estimate stored a predetermined period of time ago. Also, an estimate for the same part delivered from a different supplier may be, for example, information that has been subjected to statistical processing (average value, median, etc.) on information stored during a predetermined period of time.

[0119] Based on the read information, the assist module 2035 arranges information for each item of quotations for the same parts delivered by different suppliers in a manner that allows comparison with information for each item of the comparison source quotation. The assist module 2035 may display information of items that require attention in a manner that allows distinction from information of other items. The assist module 2035 may change the display manner based on differences from the comparison source information. The presentation control module 2036 presents an image of the result of arranging the information to the user.

[0120] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the comparison result displayed on the display 141. In FIG. 17, the presentation control unit 193 displays information on the currently uploaded quotation, which is the comparison source, in an area 1419. The presentation control unit 193 displays information on quotations delivered by different suppliers for the same parts, which is the comparison target, in an area 14110. In FIG. 17, the presentation control unit 193 displays the value of the material unit price in a manner that makes it distinguishable from information on other items. In addition, the presentation control unit 193 changes the display manner depending on whether the value is lower or higher than the material unit price value of the comparison source.

[0121] For example, when "Cost Table Comparison" is selected by the user, the assist module 2035 reads out from the memory unit 202 information on parts with the same part number as the parts related to the stored estimate. The assist module 2035 reads out from the memory unit 202 information on predetermined items on the parts with the same part number, for example. The predetermined items are, for example, items related to price. There may be, for example, one predetermined item or multiple predetermined items. When there are multiple predetermined items, the predetermined items are, for example, related to each other. The predetermined items include, for example, material unit price, material weight, input amount, input unit price, labor hours, labor rate, etc.

[0122] The assist module 2035 executes statistical processing using the read information, for example. Specifically, the assist module 2035 calculates, for example, the average value, median value, etc. of the read information. The assist module 2035 may also calculate, for example, the standard deviation of the items of the quotation to be compared. The assist module 2035 may also create, for example, a distribution map of the read information.

[0123] The assist module 2035 arranges the results of the statistical processing in a manner that allows comparison with information for each item of the quotation to be compared. The assist module 2035 may display information of items of interest in a manner that allows distinction from information of other items. The assist module 2035 may change the display manner based on differences from the information of the comparison source. The presentation control module 2036 presents an image of the results of arranging the information to the user. If there is a difference that satisfies a predetermined requirement between the results of the statistical processing and the information of the corresponding item of the quotation to be compared, the assist module 2035 may estimate that there is an error in the contents of the quotation to be compared. The presentation control module 2036 presents the possibility that there is an error in the contents of the quotation to the user.

[0124] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the comparison result displayed on the display 141. In FIG. 18, the presentation control unit 193 displays information on the currently uploaded quotation, which is the comparison source, in an area 14111. The presentation control unit 193 displays the calculation result created based on the quotations for the same part in an area 14112. In FIG. 18, the presentation control unit 193 displays a distribution diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the material unit price and the vertical axis represents the material weight in an area 14112. The presentation control unit 193 displays a predetermined coordinate point on the distribution diagram so that it can be distinguished from other coordinate points. In addition, the presentation control unit 193 changes the display mode of the comparison source material cost total depending on whether it is lower or higher than the statistical value.

[0125] For example, when the user selects "price composition comparison," the assist module 2035 reads out the expenses for each classification stored in the first classification table 2021 to the fourth classification table 2024 for the quotations that are the subject of comparison in the predetermined comparison content, such as material expenses, parts purchasing expenses, process expenses, depreciation expenses, logistics expenses, and management expenses. Specifically, for example, when "similar parts comparison" is set as the subject of "price composition comparison," the assist module 2035 reads out information on parts similar to the parts related to the stored quotations from the storage unit 202.

[0126] Based on the read information, the assist module 2035 arranges the information for each item related to the similar parts in a manner that allows comparison with the information for each item related to the parts in the comparison source. The assist module 2035 also calculates the ratio of the price composition for each category in the estimate read from the storage unit 202. The assist module 2035 calculates the ratio of the price composition for each category for each estimate. The assist module 2035 may change the display mode based on the difference from the information in the comparison source. The presentation control module 2036 presents an image of the result of arranging the information to the user.

[0127] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the comparison result displayed on the display 141. In FIG. 19, the presentation control unit 193 displays information about the currently uploaded quotation, which is the comparison source, in an area 14113. The presentation control unit 193 displays information about the quotation of a similar part, which is the comparison target, in an area 14114. The presentation control unit 193 displays the composition ratio of the price for each category in an area 14115. In FIG. 19, the presentation control unit 193 displays the value of the material unit price in a manner that can be distinguished from the information of other items. Furthermore, the presentation control unit 193 changes the display manner depending on whether the value is lower or higher than the material unit price value of the comparison source.

[0128] Note that a comparison other than the "similar parts comparison" may be set as the target of the "price composition comparison." In that case, the presentation control unit 193 displays information according to the set comparison content together with the price composition ratio for each category.

[0129] In the above description, the assist module 2035 compares the uploaded estimate with past estimates after the user selects the comparison content. However, when an appraisal assistance request is made, the assist module 2035 may compare the uploaded estimate with past estimates using preset comparison content. In this case, the assist module 2035 may create a thumbnail image based on the comparison result.

[0130] In the above description, the assist module 2035 may receive settings of the comparison contents from the user. Specifically, for example, when displaying a list of the comparison contents, the assist module 2035 may present the user with an area in which the comparison contents can be set.

[0131] In the above description, the confirmation of the need for appraisal assistance is performed immediately after the information on the estimate is stored in the storage unit 202. The assistance module 2035 may receive a request for appraisal assistance from the user at any time.

[0132] (Analysis processing) FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the server 20 when analyzing a predetermined trend regarding a quotation based on information regarding the quotation.

[0133] First, when a user wishes to check the results of an analysis of a quotation, the user operates the input device 13 to launch a web browser and access a website where the service is provided. The user inputs an instruction to request an analysis of the quotation into the terminal device 10. The terminal device 10 transmits a signal to the server 20 requesting an analysis of the quotation.

[0134] In step S31, the server 20 accepts a request transmitted from the terminal device 10.

[0135] In step S32, the server 20 performs an analysis using information on the estimate accumulated in the storage unit 202. For example, the analysis module 2034 reads values ​​for two or more items set as analysis targets from the storage unit 202, and aligns the read values ​​based on the size. Specifically, for example, the analysis module 2034 sets two items as analysis targets, and creates an xy plane with the set items as axes. The analysis module 2034 distributes the values ​​read for the items on the xy plane. Also, for example, the analysis module 2034 sets three items as analysis targets, and creates an xyz space with the set items as axes. The analysis module 2034 distributes the values ​​read for the items in the xyz space. The items set as analysis targets may be, for example, a set of items that are empirically recognized to show a certain tendency, which may be set in advance. Also, the items set as analysis targets may be, for example, arbitrarily set by the user.

[0136] For example, the analysis module 2034 extracts only values ​​that are characters that specify a specific item of the estimate from the values ​​read from the storage unit 202. The analysis module 2034 accepts character designation for any item. Specifically, the analysis module 2034 can set a specific item of the estimate as a filter. The analysis module 2034 accepts designation of a specific character in the item set as a filter. The analysis module 2034 extracts values ​​of the specific item of the estimate where the item set as a filter is the specified character.

[0137] The analysis module 2034 creates an image in which the extracted values ​​are arranged based on the magnitude of the values. The presentation control module 2036 presents the created image to the user.

[0138] 21 to 23 are schematic diagrams showing examples of analysis results displayed on the display 141. In FIG. 21 to FIG. 23, the presentation control unit 193 displays a plurality of item filters in an area 14115. The contents displayed in the item filters correspond to the items of the estimate stored in the storage unit 202. Each item filter allows values ​​to be input using, for example, a pull-down menu. Values ​​stored in the storage unit 202 for the corresponding items can be input using a pull-down menu. When a value is input using the pull-down menu, the server 20 extracts an estimate in which the input value is stored.

[0139] 21 to 23, the presentation control unit 193 displays items to be analyzed in the area 14116. The items to be analyzed can be selected, for example, using a pull-down menu. The items to be analyzed can be set arbitrarily as long as they are items included in the estimate. When an item is selected using the pull-down menu, the value associated with the selected item is read out by the server 20. When a predetermined value is input in the item filter, the value associated with the selected item is read out by the server 20 for the extracted estimate.

[0140] 21 to 23, the presentation control unit 193 displays the analysis results in an area 14117. The presentation control unit 193 displays, as the analysis results, a distribution diagram of the values ​​read out by the server 20. When a point on the distribution diagram is selected, the presentation control unit 193 displays information on the estimate corresponding to the selected point.

[0141] 21, the user does not input a value to the item filter, but selects "reference number" as the x-axis and "unit price" as the y-axis. The presentation control unit 193 displays the values ​​of "item: reference number" and "item: unit price" read from the storage unit 202 in the area 14117.

[0142] 22, the user inputs "Company A" into the item filter: supplier, selects "product weight" as the x-axis, and selects "unit price" as the y-axis. The presentation control unit 193 displays in the area 14117 the values ​​of item: product weight and item: unit price of the quotation whose supplier is Company A, which have been read from the storage unit 202.

[0143] 23, the user inputs "Company A" into the item filter: supplier, inputs "Cutting and forging, and six others" into the item filter: process, selects "product weight" as the x-axis, and selects "processing cost" as the y-axis. The presentation control unit 193 displays in the area 14117 the values ​​of item: product weight and item: processing cost of the quotation read from the storage unit 202 in which the supplier is Company A and the processes are Cutting and forging, and six others.

[0144] The analysis by the analysis module 2034 is not limited to distribution charts. The analysis module 2034 can employ various analysis methods not limited to distribution charts. For example, the analysis module 2034 may create a stacked chart as shown in FIG. 24. The chart shown in FIG. 24 shows the composition ratio of each process group in a process in a stacked chart. In FIG. 24, the user can input an item filter value from an area 14118, can select an analysis target from an area 14119, and can add or remove a process group from an area 14120.

[0145] As described above, in the above embodiment, the reception control module 2031 accepts upload of information on quotations provided by other business entities. The storage control module 2033 stores items included in the information on the quotation that has been uploaded and text for the items for each classification to which the items belong. The classification includes at least a classification for raw materials and a classification for processes. A quotation for the manufacturing industry is a document received from a supplier company to understand the appropriateness of the price of a procurement item before placing an order. Therefore, a quotation for the manufacturing industry contains various detailed information on prices, such as information on raw materials and information on processes. In this embodiment, the storage control module 2033 stores items included in the information on the quotation that has been uploaded and text for the items for at least the classification: "materials" and classification: "process," which are the classifications to which the items belong. Therefore, a lot of information included in the quotation for the manufacturing industry is stored in a systematic manner so that it can be easily used in later processes. This enables the server 20 to store the values ​​of each item in the quotation that has been delivered in accordance with the systematic classification.

[0146] Therefore, the server 20 according to this embodiment can support effective use of quotations issued in the past.

[0147] In addition, input formats for quotations in the manufacturing industry may differ between suppliers. In such cases, it may take time and effort to determine which item is the target item. The server 20 according to this embodiment stores the values ​​of each item in the delivered quotation as the values ​​of pre-set items, so that even if the delivery note formats of suppliers do not match, the user can understand the contents of the quotation without spending time and effort.

[0148] In the above embodiment, the reception control module 2031 receives information about quotations as free-form image data, which allows the user to upload quotations to be delivered by any supplier.

[0149] In the above embodiment, the storage control module 2033 performs image analysis on the image data to extract characters contained in the image data. The storage control module 2033 inputs the extracted characters to a trained model that has learned the relationship between characters and items based on the order in which characters appear in the quotation, outputs characters from the trained model in a format associated with the items, and stores the items and the characters associated with the items for each category to which the items belong. This makes it possible to store information related to quotations in the storage unit 202 with high accuracy. Also, even if the format of quotations differs for each supplier, it makes it possible to store information related to quotations in the storage unit 202 with high accuracy.

[0150] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the storage control module 2033 extracts character data included in the image data. The storage control module 2033 detects pre-registered items and characters related to the items from the extracted character data, and stores the detected items and characters for each category to which the items belong. This makes it possible to store information related to quotations in the storage unit 202 with high accuracy. Also, even if the format of quotations differs for each supplier, it makes it possible to store information related to quotations in the storage unit 202 with high accuracy.

[0151] In the above embodiment, the storage control module 2033 extracts character data included in the image data. The storage control module 2033 determines a classification based on a first character detected in a predetermined area of ​​the image data. The storage control module 2033 detects an item included in the predetermined area and a second character related to the item, and stores the detected item and the second character for each classification to which the item belongs. This makes it possible to store information related to quotations in the storage unit 202 with high accuracy. Also, even if the format of quotations differs for each supplier, it makes it possible to store information related to quotations in the storage unit 202 with high accuracy.

[0152] In the above embodiment, the presentation control module 2036 proposes the layout of information in the quotation. This allows the user to understand the quotation in a way that makes it easy to remember the information. The user can request the supplier to change the format of the quotation, so that the user can receive a quotation from the supplier that is easier to use.

[0153] In the above embodiment, the quotation includes items for calculating material costs, which are presented in the manufacturing industry. The items for calculating material costs belong to a classification related to raw materials. More specifically, the quotation includes, as items for calculating material costs, for example, "input weight," "material unit price," "scrap weight," "scrap unit price," or at least any combination of these. This makes it possible to store information with high accuracy for quotations related to the manufacturing industry.

[0154] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the quotation includes items for calculating processing costs, which are presented in the manufacturing industry. The items for calculating processing costs belong to a classification related to processes. More specifically, the quotation includes, as items for calculating processing costs, for example, "labor rate," "rate (machine rate, man rate)," "setup time," "processing man-hours," or at least any combination of these. This makes it possible to store information with high accuracy for quotations related to the manufacturing industry.

[0155] In the above embodiment, the storage control module 2033 stores information on a plurality of quotations. The analysis module 2034 reads out the information stored for each classification and analyzes a predetermined trend. This enables the server 20 to perform an analysis to ascertain the appropriateness of the price of the procurement item based on the information on quotations accumulated in the past. For example, if there is a value that deviates from a predetermined trend, it becomes possible to estimate the occurrence of a mistake when the quotation was created. Furthermore, it becomes possible to propose an appropriate price based on price fluctuations.

[0156] In the above embodiment, the reception control module 2031 accepts upload of information on quotations related to the manufacturing industry provided by other business entities. The storage control module 2033 stores items included in the uploaded quotation information in association with characters included in the quotation information and related to the items. When the assist module 2035 stores the items and characters included in the quotation information, it extracts items and characters related to the currently stored items and characters from the previously stored items and characters, and reads out information on the quotation including the extracted items and characters. The assist module 2035 outputs the read quotation information so as to be comparable with the quotation information accepted for upload.

[0157] For this reason, for example, when requesting competitive quotations, even if quotations have not yet been received from other suppliers, it is possible to compare the current quotation with past quotations. Since it is possible to compare the component ratio of the price of the currently received quotation with the part from which it was diverted, it is possible to use this information as reference when making an assessment.

[0158] Furthermore, in the past, when searching for related quotations, the user had to access the storage locations where the quotations were stored one by one. With the server 20, related quotations are proposed, so the user can easily obtain the comparison results with quotations with similar conditions or parts categories. This makes it possible to reduce the effort required to decide on a supplier.

[0159] In the above embodiment, the assist module 2035 reads out information on quotations for parts similar to the parts included in the quotation that has been accepted for upload, based on the items and characters stored this time and the items and characters stored in the past. This allows the user to compare the currently stored quotation with quotations for similar parts. This allows the user to easily obtain materials for more persuasive price negotiations.

[0160] In the above embodiment, the assist module 2035 reads out information on quotations provided in the past from the business entity that provided the quotation that was accepted for upload, based on the items and characters stored this time and the items and characters stored in the past. This allows the user to compare the currently stored quotation with quotations related to the same supplier. This allows the user to easily obtain materials for more persuasive price negotiations.

[0161] In the above embodiment, the assist module 2035 reads out information on quotations for parts with the same part numbers as the parts related to the quotation that has been accepted for uploading, based on the items and characters stored this time and the items and characters stored in the past. This allows the user to compare the currently stored quotation with quotations for parts that have been ordered in the past. This allows the user to easily obtain materials for more persuasive price negotiations.

[0162] In the above embodiment, the assist module 2035 reads out information on quotations provided by other businesses that have received competitive quotations at the same time as the quotation that has been uploaded, based on the items and characters stored this time and the items and characters stored in the past. This makes it possible to compare the latest quotations from each supplier that has received competitive quotations. Even if the quotation format of the supplier that received the competitive quotations is the supplier's format, it is possible to effectively integrate and compare the differences in the way quotations are written, reducing the effort required to compare competitive quotations.

[0163] In the above embodiment, when the assist module 2035 stores the items and characters included in the information on the quotation, it calculates the characters related to the items of the parts included in the quotation as a comparison target based on multiple quotations stored in the past. This allows the user to compare the currently stored quotation with the statistics based on the past quotations. Therefore, the user can easily obtain materials for more persuasive price negotiations. In addition, if the current quotation contains components or processes that do not exist in the similar quotation, it is possible to judge the appropriateness of the price in the quotation by comparing it with the estimated calculation results using the cost table. In addition, if the cause of the difference cannot be found by looking at the cost table used to calculate the estimated calculation results, it is possible to estimate the creation error on the supplier's side, which can also contribute to obtaining a correct quotation.

[0164] In addition, by accessing statistical values, it is possible to check the calculation process used to calculate the statistical values ​​and the data referenced. Therefore, users can adopt the trial calculation results as statistical values ​​with peace of mind after understanding their validity and reliability. It is also possible to distinguish between using valid and reliable values ​​in negotiations and using values ​​that lack validity and reliability only for reference.

[0165] In addition, in the above embodiment, when the items and characters included in the information related to the estimate are stored, the errors included in the stored characters are estimated based on multiple previously stored quotations, which allows the user to find errors in the estimate without spending time and effort.

[0166] (Modification) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the classification includes an estimate summary, parts, materials, and processes. However, the classification may include other classifications. For example, the classification may include a classification related to dies, a classification related to logistics, and the like. This makes it possible to analyze estimates with higher accuracy and to assist in appraisals.

[0167] In the above embodiment, the information created by the appraisal assistance can be stored in the server 20 or the terminal device 10. At this time, for example, the server 20 or the terminal device 10 stores the information related to the appraisal assistance in association with the uploaded quotation. Therefore, once the selection of the supplier is completed, it becomes possible to organize the basis for the validity of the price in association with the quotation. If the user wishes to review the comparison results later, the user can search for the comparison results by the name or part number of the parts used for comparison, improving convenience. This reduces the effort required to create an approval application form at the time of appraisal.

[0168] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when the user selects "Compare past quotations from the same supplier," the assist module 2035 reads out from the storage unit 202 information on quotations delivered for the same parts by the same supplier as the supplier related to the stored quotation. When the quotation is revised by the supplier, the assist module 2035 may compare information on the quotations before and after the revision. The presentation control module 2036 presents information on the quotations before and after the revision to the user so that they can be compared. This allows the user to easily grasp the revisions even if the quotation has been revised.

[0169] In the above embodiment, the data on the quotation is not limited to information stored by the company, but may be information stored by other companies. This allows for analysis or appraisal assistance that takes market conditions into greater consideration.

[0170] <4 Basic hardware configuration of computer> 25 is a block diagram showing the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90. The computer 90 includes at least a processor 91, a main storage device 92, an auxiliary storage device 93, and a communication IF (interface) 99. These are electrically connected to each other by a bus.

[0171] The processor 91 is hardware for executing an instruction set described in a program, and is composed of an arithmetic unit, a register, a peripheral circuit, and the like.

[0172] The main storage device 92 is for temporarily storing programs, data to be processed by the programs, etc. For example, it is a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0173] The auxiliary storage device 93 is a storage device for saving data and programs, such as a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, or a semiconductor memory.

[0174] The communication IF 99 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals for communicating with other computers via a network using a wired or wireless communication standard.

[0175] The network is composed of the Internet, a LAN, various mobile communication systems constructed by wireless base stations, etc. For example, the network includes 3G, 4G, 5G mobile communication systems, LTE (Long Term Evolution), wireless networks that can connect to the Internet via a specified access point (e.g., Wi-Fi (registered trademark)), etc. In the case of wireless connection, communication protocols include, for example, Z-Wave (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. In the case of wired connection, the network also includes a network that is directly connected by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable or the like.

[0176] It should be noted that the computer 90 can be virtually realized by distributing all or part of each hardware configuration among multiple computers 90 and connecting them together via a network. In this way, the computer 90 is a concept that includes not only a computer 90 housed in a single housing or case, but also a virtualized computer system.

[0177] <Basic functional configuration of computer 90> A description will now be given of the functional configuration of a computer realized by the basic hardware configuration of a computer 90 shown in Fig. 25. The computer includes at least the functional units of a control unit, a storage unit, and a communication unit.

[0178] The functional units of the computer 90 can also be realized by distributing all or part of the functional units among multiple computers 90 connected to each other via a network. The computer 90 is a concept that includes not only a single computer 90 but also a virtualized computer system.

[0179] The control unit is realized by the processor 91 reading out various programs stored in the auxiliary storage device 93, expanding the programs in the main storage device 92, and executing processes according to the programs. The control unit can realize functional units that perform various information processing depending on the type of program. In this way, the computer is realized as an information processing device that performs information processing.

[0180] The storage unit is realized by a main storage device 92 and an auxiliary storage device 93. The storage unit stores data, various programs, and various databases. Furthermore, the processor 91 can secure a storage area corresponding to the storage unit in the main storage device 92 or the auxiliary storage device 93 in accordance with a program. Furthermore, the control unit can cause the processor 91 to execute processes of adding, updating, and deleting data stored in the storage unit in accordance with the various programs.

[0181] A database refers to a relational database, which is used to manage data sets called tables, which are structured according to rows and columns, by relating them to each other. In a database, a table is called a table, a column in a table is called a column, and a row in a table is called a record. In a relational database, it is possible to set relationships between tables and associate them.

[0182] Usually, a column is set in each table as a key for uniquely identifying a record, but setting a key in the column is not essential. The control unit can cause the processor 91 to add, delete, or update records in a specific table stored in the storage unit according to various programs.

[0183] The communication unit is realized by the communication IF 99. The communication unit realizes a function of communicating with other computers 90 via a network. The communication unit can receive information transmitted from other computers 90 and input the information to the control unit. The control unit can cause the processor 91 to execute information processing on the received information in accordance with various programs. In addition, the communication unit can transmit information output from the control unit to other computers 90.

[0184] Although several embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, these embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and modifications are within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims, as well as the scope and spirit of the invention.

[0185] <Additional Notes> The matters described in the above embodiments will be supplemented below. (Appendix 1) A program to be executed by a computer having a processor and a memory, the program causing the processor to execute the steps of accepting an upload of information relating to a quotation provided by another business entity, and storing items contained in the uploaded information relating to the quotation and text for the items for each classification to which the items belong, the classification including at least a classification relating to raw materials and a classification relating to processes. (Appendix 2) The program according to claim 1, wherein in the receiving step, the information relating to the quotation is free-form image data. (Appendix 3) A program described in Appendix 2, which causes a processor to execute a step of extracting characters contained in the image data by performing image analysis on the image data, and in a storing step, inputs the extracted characters into a trained model that has learned the relationship between characters and items based on the order in which the characters appear in the estimate, outputs the characters from the trained model in a format associated with the items, and stores the items and the characters associated with the items for each classification to which the items belong. (Appendix 4) A program described in Appendix 2, which causes a processor to execute a step of extracting character data contained in the image data by performing image analysis on the image data, and in a storing step, detects pre-registered items and characters related to the items from the extracted character data, and stores the detected items and characters for each classification to which the items belong. (Appendix 5) A program described in Appendix 2, which causes a processor to execute a step of extracting character data contained in the image data by performing image analysis on the image data, and in a storing step, determines a classification based on a first character detected in a specified area of ​​the image data, detects an item contained in the specified area and a second character related to the item, associates the second character with the item, and stores the second character in association with the determined classification. (Appendix 6) A program as described in any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 5) that causes a processor to execute a step of proposing an arrangement of information in an estimate. (Appendix 7) In the receiving step, the quotation includes an item for calculating material costs presented in the manufacturing industry, and the item for calculating material costs belongs to a classification related to raw materials. The program is described in any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 6). (Appendix 8) In the receiving step, the items for calculating the material cost include "input weight", "material unit price", "scrap weight", and "scrap unit price" (Appendix 7). (Appendix 9) In the receiving step, the quotation includes items for calculating processing costs presented in the manufacturing industry, and the items for calculating the processing costs belong to a classification related to a process. The program is described in any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 8). (Appendix 10) In the receiving step, the items for calculating the processing cost include "labor rate", "rate (machine rate, man rate)", "setup time", and "processing labor hours" (Appendix 9), a program described in the above. (Appendix 11) The classification is a program described in any of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 10), including classifications related to parts, classifications related to molds, and classifications related to logistics. (Appendix 12) A program described in any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 11), in which, in the storing step, information relating to a plurality of quotations is stored, the stored information for each classification is read, and a predetermined trend is analyzed by the processor. (Appendix 13) A program to be executed by a computer having a processor and a memory, the program causing the processor to execute the following steps: accepting an upload of information relating to quotations related to the manufacturing industry provided by other business entities; storing items included in the uploaded quotation information in association with characters included in the quotation information and related to the items; when the items and characters included in the quotation information are stored, extracting items and characters related to the currently stored items and characters from previously stored items and characters and reading out information about the quotation including the extracted items and characters; and outputting the read out information about the quotation so as to be comparable with the information about the quotation accepted for upload. (Appendix 14) In the reading step, information regarding quotations for parts similar to the parts included in the quotation accepted for upload is read based on the items and characters stored currently and the items and characters stored in the past (Appendix 13). (Appendix 15) In the reading step, information regarding quotations provided in the past from the business entity that provided the quotation that was accepted for uploading is read based on the items and characters stored this time and the items and characters stored in the past (Appendix 13). (Appendix 16) In the reading step, information regarding quotations for parts with the same part number as the parts in the quotation accepted for upload is read based on the items and characters stored currently and the items and characters stored in the past (Appendix 13). (Appendix 17) In the reading step, a program described in Appendix 13 reads out information about quotations provided by other businesses that have submitted competitive bids at the same time as the quotation accepted for upload, based on the items and characters stored this time and the items and characters stored in the past. (Appendix 18) A program as described in Appendix 13, which causes a processor to execute a step of storing items and characters contained in information relating to an estimate, and then calculating characters relating to items to be used as a comparison target for parts contained in the estimate, based on multiple quotations stored in the past. (Appendix 19) A program as described in Appendix 13, which causes a processor to execute a step of storing items and characters contained in information related to quotations and estimating typos contained in the stored characters based on multiple quotations stored in the past. (Appendix 20) A method implemented on a computer having a processor and a memory, wherein the processor executes the steps described in any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 19). (Appendix 21) An information processing device including a control unit and a storage unit, wherein the control unit executes any one of the steps described in (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 19). (Appendix 22) A system comprising means for performing the steps described in any one of (Supplementary Note 1) to (Supplementary Note 19). [Explanation of symbols]

[0186] 1. System 10...Terminal device 12…Communication Interface 120…Communications Department 13...Input device 131...Touch-sensitive devices 14...Output device 141…Display 150...Location information sensor 160…Camera 17...Audio processing unit 171…Mike 172…Speaker 180...Storage section 19…Processor 190...Control unit 20…Server

Claims

1. A program for causing a computer having a processor and a memory to execute the program, the program causing the processor to: accepting an upload of information regarding quotes provided by other entities; storing items included in the information related to the quotation that has been uploaded and text for the items for each category to which the items belong; Run the command, The classification program includes at least a classification regarding raw materials and a classification regarding processes.

2. 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein in said receiving step, said information relating to said estimate is free-form image data.

3. causing the processor to execute a step of extracting characters contained in the image data by performing image analysis on the image data; The program according to claim 2, wherein in the storing step, the extracted characters are input to a trained model that has learned the relationship between characters and items based on the order in which characters appear in an estimate, the trained model outputs characters in a format associated with the items, and the items and the characters associated with the items are stored for each classification to which the items belong.

4. causing the processor to execute a step of extracting character data contained in the image data by performing image analysis on the image data; 3. The program according to claim 2, wherein in the storing step, pre-registered items and characters related to the items are detected from the extracted character data, and the detected items and characters are stored for each classification to which the items belong.

5. causing the processor to execute a step of extracting character data contained in the image data by performing image analysis on the image data; 3. The program according to claim 2, wherein in the storing step, a classification is determined based on a first character detected in a specified area of ​​the image data, an item included in the specified area and a second character related to the item are detected, the second character is associated with the item, and the second character is stored in association with the determined classification.

6. 2. The program of claim 1, further comprising: a step of proposing an arrangement of information in the estimate.

7. 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein in the receiving step, the quotation includes items for calculating material costs presented in the manufacturing industry, the items for calculating material costs belonging to a classification relating to the raw materials.

8. 8. The program according to claim 7, wherein in the receiving step, the items for calculating the material cost include "input weight", "unit price of material", "weight of scrap", and "unit price of scrap".

9. 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein in the receiving step, the quotation includes items for calculating processing costs presented in the manufacturing industry, the items for calculating processing costs belonging to a classification related to the process.

10. 10. The program according to claim 9, wherein in said receiving step, items for calculating said processing costs include "labor rate," "rate (machine rate, man rate)," "setup time," and "processing man-hours."

11. 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the classification includes a classification regarding parts, a classification regarding molds, and a classification regarding logistics.

12. In the storing step, information regarding a plurality of quotations is stored; 2. The program according to claim 1, which causes the processor to execute a step of reading out the information stored for each of the categories and analyzing a predetermined tendency.

13. A program for causing a computer having a processor and a memory to execute the program, the program causing the processor to: accepting an upload of information regarding a quotation related to a manufacturing business provided by another business entity; storing items included in the information on the quotation that has been uploaded and characters included in the information on the quotation and related to the items in association with each other; When the items and characters included in the information on the quotation are stored, items and characters related to the currently stored items and characters are extracted from the previously stored items and characters, and information on the quotation including the extracted items and characters is read out. outputting the read information on the quotation so as to be comparable with the information on the quotation that has been uploaded; A program that executes the following.

14. 14. The program according to claim 13, wherein in the reading step, information relating to quotations for parts similar to the parts included in the quotation accepted for upload is read based on the items and characters stored currently and the items and characters stored in the past.

15. 14. The program according to claim 13, wherein in the reading step, information regarding quotations provided in the past from the business entity that provided the quotation that was accepted for uploading is read out based on the items and characters stored currently and the items and characters stored in the past.

16. 14. The program according to claim 13, wherein in the reading step, information regarding an estimate for a part having the same part number as the part related to the estimate accepted for upload is read based on the items and characters stored currently and the items and characters stored in the past.

17. The program according to claim 13, wherein in the reading step, information about quotations provided by other businesses that have obtained competitive bids at the same time as the quotation accepted for upload is read out based on the items and characters stored currently and the items and characters stored in the past.

18. 14. The program according to claim 13, which causes the processor to execute a step of calculating, when the items and characters contained in the information regarding the quotation are stored, characters related to the items to be compared with the parts contained in the quotation based on a plurality of quotations stored in the past.

19. The program according to claim 13, further comprising a step of causing the processor to execute a step of estimating typographical errors contained in the stored characters based on a plurality of previously stored quotations when the items and characters contained in the information relating to the quotation are stored.

20. A computer implemented method comprising a processor and a memory, the processor performing the steps of any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. An information processing apparatus comprising a control unit and a storage unit, the control unit executing the steps according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

22. A system comprising means for carrying out the steps of any one of claims 1 to 19.

Images