Information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

To increase the usability of an electronic settlement service.SOLUTION: An information processing device, which performs various kinds of processing relating to an electronic settlement service in which settlement means for settling payment for a transaction object by electronic settlement using predetermined code is provided to a service user, includes a first provision unit and a second provision unit. The first provision unit provides the service user with first store information in which a plurality of contents corresponding to sales promotion information issued from stores and profit information which is given to the service user in using the electronic settlement are arranged on a map on which the location of each store introducing the electronic settlement service is indicated. The second provision unit obtains, when at least one of the plurality of contents arranged in the first store information is selected, second store information relating to the store corresponding to the selected content; and provides the obtained second store information to the service user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, cashless payment methods have been widely recognized by consumers, mainly in commercial transactions between companies and individuals, but electronic payment services that are carried out online using user terminals such as smartphones owned by individuals have become particularly popular among consumers due to their convenience. Various technologies related to electronic payment services have been proposed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2005-537591 [Patent Document 2] JP 2020-13575 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the above-mentioned conventional techniques leave room for improvement in terms of improving the usability of electronic payment services.

[0005] The present application has been made in consideration of the above, and aims to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program that can improve the usability of electronic payment services. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The information processing device according to the present application is an information processing device that performs various processes related to an electronic payment service that provides a service user with a payment means for settling the price of a transaction object by electronic payment using predetermined code information, and has a first providing unit and a second providing unit. The first providing unit provides the service user with first store information in which a map showing the locations of stores that offer the electronic payment service is displayed and in which a plurality of contents corresponding to promotional information issued by the store and benefit information granted to the service user when using electronic payment are arranged. When at least one of the plurality of contents arranged in the first store information is selected, the second providing unit acquires second store information related to the store corresponding to the selected content, and provides the acquired second store information to the service user. have Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to provide an effect of improving the usability of electronic payment services. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of information processing according to the embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining another example of screen transition in the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of store information stored in a store information storage unit according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the information processing device according to the embodiment or the modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, the information processing device, the information processing method, and the information processing program according to the present application will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the information processing device, the information processing method, and the information processing program according to the present application are not limited to the embodiments. In addition, the same parts in the following embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions are omitted.

[0010] 1. Embodiment (1-1. System Configuration) Hereinafter, the information processing according to the embodiment will be specifically described. First, before describing the information processing according to the embodiment, an example of the configuration of the information processing system SYS will be described with reference to FIG.

[0011] As shown in Fig. 1, the information processing system SYS according to the embodiment includes a user terminal 10 and an information processing device 100. The user terminal 10 and the information processing device 100 are connected to a network N (see Fig. 3, for example) by wire or wirelessly. The user terminal 10 and the information processing device 100 can communicate with other devices via the network N. The network N is, for example, a WAN (Wide Area Network) such as the Internet.

[0012] The user terminal 10 shown in Fig. 1 is an information processing terminal used by a service user UX who is a user of an electronic payment service. The user terminal 10 is realized, for example, by a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), a desktop PC, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or the like. The user terminal 10 displays information distributed by the information processing device 100 using a web browser or an application. Note that Fig. 1 illustrates an example in which the user terminal 10 is a smartphone.

[0013] In addition, a user application program (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as a "payment application") for implementing code payment through an electronic payment service is installed in the user terminal 10. When the user terminal 10 receives control information for implementing predetermined information processing through the payment application from the information processing device 100, the user terminal 10 implements the information processing in accordance with the control information. Here, the control information is described in, for example, a script language such as JavaScript (registered trademark), a style sheet language such as CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), a programming language such as Java (registered trademark), or a markup language such as HTML (HyperText Markup Language). Note that the predetermined application itself delivered from the information processing device 100 may be regarded as control information.

[0014] The information processing device 100 shown in Fig. 1 is an information processing device operated and managed by a funds transfer business operator that provides electronic payment services to service users (such as the user UX shown in Fig. 1) who use such services. For example, the electronic payment service is a service that provides service users with a payment method for settling the price of a transaction object by electronic payment using predetermined code information, as will be described later (it can also be said to be a service that provides a predetermined transaction method that controls the exchange of electronic money by code payment).

[0015] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 is typically realized by a server device, but may also be realized by a mainframe, a workstation, etc. Furthermore, when the information processing device 100 is configured by a server device, it may be realized by a single server device, or may be realized by a cloud system in which a plurality of server devices and a plurality of storage devices operate in cooperation with each other.

[0016] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 cooperates with a payment application running on the user terminal 10 to execute processing related to an electronic payment service provided, for example, through a dedicated online system. For example, the information processing device 100 distributes the payment application to a person who wishes to use the electronic payment service, and provides the electronic payment service on the condition that a predetermined procedure in the payment application is completed. Furthermore, when the information processing device 100 receives a transaction request from the payment application via an interface dedicated to the payment application (for example, various operation screens displayed on the user terminal 10 by the function of a payment supplement), the information processing device 100 executes information processing including a remittance process of electronic money between accounts according to the transaction request. The payment application transmits transaction information including information such as the payment destination, the payment source, and the payment amount to the information processing device 100. In addition to the above-mentioned information, the transaction information may include information such as a transaction code for individually identifying a transaction and date and time information (i.e., a timestamp) for identifying the date and time when the transaction was performed.

[0017] As described below, as information processing according to the embodiment, the information processing device 100 provides to the service user UX first store information in which a plurality of contents corresponding to promotional information issued by the store and benefit information granted to the user by the store when using electronic payment are arranged on a map showing the locations of stores that have introduced an electronic payment service, and when at least one of the plurality of contents arranged in the first store information is selected, obtains second store information regarding the store corresponding to the selected content, and performs processing to provide the obtained second store information to the service user UX.

[0018] (1-2. Payment using user terminal 10) Here, an example of code payment (electronic payment) using the user terminal 10 will be described. In the following description, for example, a two-dimensional code (QR code (registered trademark)) arranged in a specific store and indicating store identification information for identifying the specific store is used to perform a payment using the user terminal 10 by a service user UX who receives a transaction object from a specific store. Note that the example of code payment described below is also applicable to a case where an arbitrary user uses an arbitrary user terminal 10 to perform a payment at an arbitrary store. In addition, the two-dimensional code indicating the store identification information may be not only a QR code but also a barcode, a predetermined mark, a number, or the like. In addition, the two-dimensional code is not limited to an example physically formed by a printed matter printed on a medium such as paper, and may be formed by image information displayed on an arbitrary terminal.

[0019] For example, when a service user UX makes a payment for the purchase or use of a transaction object such as various products or services at a specific store, the service user UX launches a payment application pre-installed in the user terminal 10. Then, the service user UX photographs a two-dimensional code placed at the specific store via the payment application. In such a case, the user terminal 10 displays a screen for inputting the price of the transaction object, and accepts input of the payment amount from the service user UX or a clerk at the specific store. Then, the user terminal 10 transmits transaction information including user identification information for identifying the service user UX, store identification information (or information indicated by the store identification information, i.e., information indicating the specific store (e.g., a store ID)), and the payment amount to the information processing device 100.

[0020] When the information processing device 100 accepts the transaction information from the user terminal 10, it transfers electronic money equivalent to the payment amount from the account of the service user UX indicated by the user identification information to the account of the specified store indicated by the store identification information. At this time, the information processing device 100 may transfer the electronic money to the account of the specified store after subtracting a predetermined fee to be charged to the specified store from the electronic money equivalent to the payment amount. Then, the information processing device 100 transmits a notification that the transaction has been completed to the user terminal 10. In such a case, the user terminal 10 notifies the service user UX that the transaction using electronic money has been completed by outputting a screen or a predetermined sound indicating that the transaction has been completed. Alternatively, the information processing device 100 may withdraw electronic money equivalent to the payment amount from the account of the service user UX indicated by the user identification information, manage it as sales information of the specified store, and transfer cash equivalent to the sales amount to a bank account held by the specified store at a predetermined timing. In this case, the information processing device 100 may notify the service user UX that the transaction using electronic money has been completed at the time when electronic money equivalent to the payment amount is withdrawn from the account of the service user UX.

[0021] It should be noted that the payment using the user terminal 10 is not limited to the above-mentioned process. For example, the payment using the user terminal 10 may be made using a terminal device (hereinafter referred to as a "store terminal") installed in a specific store. Specifically, the user terminal 10 first displays code information indicating user identification information for identifying the service user UX on a screen. In such a case, the store terminal reads the user identification information from the code information displayed on the user terminal 10, and transmits transaction information including the read user identification information (or information indicated by the user identification information, i.e., information indicating the service user UX (e.g., user ID)), the payment amount, and information identifying the specific store to the information processing device 100.

[0022] When the information processing device 100 receives the transaction information from the store terminal, it transfers electronic money equivalent to the payment amount from the account of the service user UX indicated by the user identification information to the account of the specified store. Then, the information processing device 100 transmits a notification that the transaction has been completed to the store terminal or the user terminal 10. The store terminal or the user terminal 10 notifies the service user UX that the transaction using electronic money has been completed by outputting a screen or a specified sound indicating that the transaction has been completed. In addition, the information processing device 100 may withdraw electronic money equivalent to the payment amount from the account of the service user UX indicated by the user identification information, manage the amount as sales information of the specified store, and transfer cash equivalent to the sales amount to a bank account held by the specified store at a specified timing. In this case, the information processing device 100 may notify the store clerk or the service user UX that the transaction using electronic money has been completed at the timing when the electronic money equivalent to the payment amount is withdrawn from the account of the service user UX.

[0023] Furthermore, the payment using the user terminal 10 may not only be a process of transferring electronic money from an account to which the service user UX has previously charged electronic money to an account of a specific store, but may also be, for example, a payment using a credit card registered in advance by the service user UX. In such a case, for example, the user terminal 10 may transfer electronic money in an amount indicated by the payment amount to the account of the specific store, and may also bill the management company of the credit card of the service user UX for the amount indicated by the payment amount.

[0024] Furthermore, the settlement using the user terminal 10 may not only be a process of transferring electronic money from the account of the service user UX to the account of a specific store, but may also be, for example, a settlement of transferring electronic money from the account of the service user UX to the account of another user (i.e., a transfer between users). For example, the user terminal 10 used by the service user UX who is the sender of the remittance reads user identification information (for example, user identification information displayed on a terminal device used by the user of the remittance destination) that identifies the user of the remittance destination, accepts an input of the remittance amount from the service user UX, and transmits information indicating the read identification information, the remittance amount, and the user identification information that identifies the service user UX to the information processing device 100. In such a case, the information processing device 100 may transfer electronic money in an amount indicated by the remittance amount from the account of the service user UX to the account of the user of the remittance destination, and notify the fact that the remittance has been completed by outputting a screen or a predetermined sound indicating that the remittance has been completed on the user terminal 10 or the terminal device used by the user of the remittance destination.

[0025] Note that remittance using the user terminal 10 is not limited to the above-mentioned process. For example, remittance using the user terminal 10 may be performed by inputting the telephone number of the remittance destination user or information indicating the remittance destination user (for example, a user ID) into the user terminal 10. As a specific example, the user terminal 10 accepts input of the telephone number or user ID of the remittance destination user and the remittance amount from the service user UX, and transmits the input telephone number or user ID, the remittance amount, and user identification information for identifying the service user UX to the information processing device 100. Then, the information processing device 100 transfers electronic money in an amount indicated by the remittance amount from the account of the service user UX to the account of the user linked to the transmitted telephone number or user ID.

[0026] Here, the telephone number or user ID of the remittance destination user may be linked to information about the user and registered in advance in the payment application. In this case, the user terminal 10 accepts, from the service user UX, the designation of the user (remittance destination) registered in the payment application and the input of the remittance amount to the user, and transmits to the information processing device 100 the telephone number or user ID linked to the designated user, the remittance amount, and user identification information for identifying the service user UX.

[0027] Furthermore, for example, remittance using the user terminal 10 may be performed by providing the remittance user with link information for receiving the remittance amount. As a specific example, the user terminal 10 generates link information for receiving the remittance amount by accepting an input of the remittance amount from the service user UX, and provides the link information to the terminal device used by the remittance user by sending an e-mail including the link information or posting information including the link information on a social networking service (SNS). Then, when the remittance user selects the link information and performs a receiving operation, the information processing device 100 transfers electronic money in an amount indicated by the remittance amount from the account of the service user UX to the account of the remittance user.

[0028] The above-mentioned payment means and payment services are not limited to those for providing a price (settlement of debt) for purchasing a product or providing a service. For example, as described above, the payment means and payment services may have a function related to remittance between accounts held by multiple users. That is, the above-mentioned payment means and payment services may be services that control the transmission and reception of electronic money between accounts of any owner linked to the owner of electronic money, such as a user or a store. That is, the payment means and payment services according to the embodiment may be provided in any form as long as they are transaction means and transaction services that execute various controls for realizing the exchange of electronic money (not only various inter-account remittance controls via electronic money, but also controls related to exchanges between electronic money accounts and bank accounts, various claim processes such as installments and processes associated with bonus payments, and various controls related to the exchange of assets including electronic money). In addition, the various controls realized by such transaction means and transaction services may include both control related to payment and control related to remittance, or only one of them. That is, a "transaction" is a concept that includes not only "settlement" related to electronic money, but also "remittance" of electronic money and various other processes. That is, the information processing device 100 may be an information processing device that realizes a transaction means for controlling the exchange of electronic money between any owners.

[0029] (1-3. Information Processing According to the Embodiment) Hereinafter, an overview of information processing according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of information processing according to an embodiment. In the following description, the service user UX and the user terminal 10 may be regarded as the same. In other words, the service user UX can be read as the user terminal 10.

[0030] As a premise of the information processing shown in Fig. 1, the service user UX operates the user terminal 10 to launch a payment application. Then, the service user UX uses a function for searching "nearby stores" provided in the payment application to search for nearby stores that are nearby affiliated stores that have implemented electronic payment services. For example, a nearby affiliated store corresponds to an affiliated store located within a predetermined distance from the current location of the service user UX.

[0031] In response to receiving the search request for nearby stores, the information processing device 100 provides the service user UX with first store information in which a plurality of contents corresponding to promotional information issued by the store and benefit information granted to the service user UX when using electronic payment are arranged on a map showing the locations of the stores that introduce the electronic payment service. For example, the information processing device 100 may provide the service user UX with first store information in which a plurality of contents are arranged on a map showing the locations of nearby stores within a predetermined distance range from the current location of the service user UX. During operation of the payment app, location information for identifying the location of the service user UX is uploaded to the information processing device 100 by a function of the payment app.

[0032] The information processing device 100 may also provide the service user with first store information in which a first content for specifying a store issuing a flyer is arranged on a map. The information processing device 100 may also provide the service user with first store information in which a second content for specifying a store distributing a coupon to be given to the service user when using electronic payment is arranged on a map. The information processing device 100 may also provide the service user with first store information in which a third content for specifying a store distributing a stamp to be given to the service user when using electronic payment is arranged on a map.

[0033] The service user UX, who has acquired the first store information from the information processing device 100, selects a desired category for narrowing down the stores from among the nearby stores displayed in the first store information. The user terminal 10 transmits selected category information indicating the category selected by the service user UX to the information processing device 100 (step S11).

[0034] On the other hand, when the information processing device 100 receives the selected category information from the user terminal 10, it acquires the associated store information (an example of "second store information") corresponding to the selected category (step S12).

[0035] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 transmits the acquired compatible store information to the user terminal 10, thereby providing the information to the service user UX (step S13).

[0036] Hereinafter, an example of screen transition of the payment application displayed on the user terminal 10 in conjunction with the execution of the information processing (part 1) will be described.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 1, the user terminal 10 displays the top screen of the payment application according to the operation by the service user UX (display example W1-1). When the user terminal 10 detects an operation by the service user UX on a button B1 provided on the top screen for searching for nearby stores, the user terminal 10 transmits a display request for nearby store information to the information processing device 100. Then, the user terminal 10 displays the first store information received from the information processing device 100 on the first application screen J1 (display example W1-2). According to FIG. 1, an example is shown in which an image UP showing the current location of the service user UX and a plurality of images TP showing each of the nearby stores are arranged on a map, and the first store information is displayed on the user terminal 10. Also, FIG. 1 shows an example in which a number corresponding to the number of stores existing at the corresponding position is written on the image TP, but this example does not need to be particularly limited, and the number may not be written, and other information corresponding to the corresponding store may be written in numbers, letters, or other methods. For example, the information processing device 100 may change the display mode so that the display mode of the image TP corresponding to a store that meets a specific condition can be distinguished from the image TP corresponding to other stores. For example, the information processing device 100 may highlight the image TP corresponding to the store that is advertising with a different display color, figure, etc. from other images. Also, the information processing device 100 may calculate, for each image TP, an average payment amount of payments made by service users using an electronic payment service at a store located at a position corresponding to the image TP, and change the display color, figure, etc. of the image TP corresponding to the store to highlight it according to the calculated average payment amount.

[0038] In addition, the first application screen J1 displaying the first store information is provided with a button B2, which is a first content for specifying a store that issues a flyer, a button B3, which is a second content for specifying a store that distributes a coupon to be given to a service user when using electronic payment, and a button B4, which is a third content for specifying a store that distributes a stamp to be given to a service user when using electronic payment. The buttons B2, B3, and B4 are each used to specify a filtering condition for the service user UX to narrow down a desired store from among nearby stores. The button B3, which is a second content for specifying a store that distributes a coupon to be given to a service user, may be provided for each type of coupon. For example, the types of coupons include a revisit coupon that can be used when revisiting a store, a time-limited coupon that can be used only during a certain time period, and a product-specific coupon that can be used only for payment of a specific product. The coupon may also be a coupon that allows a flyer to be viewed.

[0039] Furthermore, when the user terminal 10 detects, for example, an operation on the button B3 on the first application screen J1 (display example W1-3), the user terminal 10 transmits information indicating the coupon associated with the button B3 as selected category information indicating the selected category to the information processing device 100. Then, the user terminal 10 displays the affiliated store information received from the information processing device 100 on the second application screen J2 (display example W1-4).

[0040] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 2, another example of screen transitions of the payment application displayed on the user terminal 10 in association with the execution of the information processing according to the embodiment will be described. For example, in the first store report, a plurality of images TP showing each of the nearby stores arranged on the map may be changed to an image TP corresponding to a selected category selected by the service user UX. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining another example of the outline of the information processing according to the embodiment. Note that in the screen transition example shown in FIG. 2, some parts that overlap with the screen transition example shown in FIG. 1 are omitted.

[0041] That is, when the user terminal 10 detects, for example, an operation on the button B3 on the first application screen J1 (display example W2-1), the user terminal 10 transmits information indicating a coupon associated with the button B3 as selected category information indicating a selected category to the information processing device 100. Then, when the user terminal 10 receives the compatible store information from the information processing device 100, the user terminal 10 displays, on the first application screen J1, first store information in which only an image TP indicating the compatible store is arranged on a map based on the compatible store information (display example W2-2). For example, the information processing device 100 can transmit, as the compatible store information, specific information for identifying an image TP corresponding to the compatible store among a plurality of images TP indicating each of the nearby stores arranged on the map to the user terminal 10. The user terminal 10 can identify an image TP indicating the compatible store from a plurality of images TP indicating each of the nearby stores by the specific information included in the compatible store information.

[0042] Furthermore, when the user terminal 10 detects an operation of the service user UX on the image TP showing the corresponding store arranged on the map (display example W2-3), the user terminal 10 displays the corresponding store information received from the information processing device 100 on the second application screen J2 (display example W2-4). In this way, the information processing device 100 allows the service user UX to intuitively grasp the positional relationship with the store corresponding to the selected category.

[0043] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may provide the service user with first store information in which a fourth content for specifying a store in a predetermined crowded state among nearby stores is arranged on a map. Stores in a predetermined crowded state are assumed to be stores where a transaction target can be smoothly provided by corresponding stores, such as stores with "vacant seats" or "no waiting time". In this case, the information processing device 100 may estimate the crowded state of each store included in the nearby stores based on the number of electronic payments made in the nearby stores in the most recent predetermined period, and may acquire second store information related to the store corresponding to the fourth content according to the estimated crowded state.

[0044] As described above, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment provides store information related to a store that is linked to user benefits selected by the service user UX from among nearby stores. This allows the information processing device 100 to improve the usability of the electronic payment service.

[0045] [2. Equipment configuration] Hereinafter, the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the information processing device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0046] (Regarding communication unit 110) The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a network interface card (NIC) etc. The communication unit 110 is connected to a network N by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from other devices such as the user terminal 10.

[0047] (Regarding the storage unit 120) The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. As shown in Fig. 4, the storage unit 120 has a store information storage unit 121. Note that the storage unit 120 may store information necessary for the information processing according to the embodiment, such as map information, in addition to the information described below.

[0048] (Regarding the store information storage unit 121) The store information storage unit 121 stores store information on each store that is an affiliated store that introduces the electronic payment service. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of store information stored in the store information storage unit 121 according to the embodiment.

[0049] 4, the store information stored in the store information storage unit 121 has a number of items such as a "store ID" item, a "location information" item, a "flyer information" item, a "coupon information" item, a "stamp information" item, etc. These items in the store information are associated with each other.

[0050] The "store ID" field stores a store ID, which is unique identification information assigned to each service user in order to uniquely identify each store in the electronic payment service.

[0051] The "location information" field stores information indicating the location of the store. The information indicating the location of the store may be any information that can identify the location of the store, such as an address or latitude and longitude.

[0052] The "flyer information" field stores information about fliers issued by stores. The "coupon information" field stores information about coupons given to service users by stores when using electronic payment. The "stamp information" field stores information about stamps given to service users by stores when using electronic payment.

[0053] (Regarding the control unit 130) The control unit 130 is a controller, and is realized, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) executing various programs stored in a storage device inside the information processing device 100 using a RAM as a working area. The control unit 130 can also be realized, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0054] 3, the control unit 130 has a first providing unit 131 and a second providing unit 132, and these units realize or execute the functions and actions of information processing described below. Note that the control unit 130 may have new functional units different from the units shown in FIG. 3 in response to the extension of various processes executed by the information processing device 100.

[0055] (Regarding the first providing unit 131) The first providing unit 131 provides the service user with first store information in which promotional information issued by the store and multiple contents corresponding to benefit information granted to the service user when using electronic payment are arranged on a map showing the locations of stores that offer electronic payment services.

[0056] For example, the first providing unit 131 may provide the service user with first store information in which a plurality of contents are arranged on a map showing the positions of nearby stores within a predetermined distance range from the current location of the service user. For example, when the first providing unit 131 determines that a display request for nearby store information has been acquired from the service user, the first providing unit 131 may specify, as nearby stores, stores within a predetermined distance range from the current location of the service user, based on the location information of the service user and the location information included in the store information.

[0057] Also, for example, the first providing unit 131 may provide the service user with first store information in which first content for specifying a store issuing a flyer from among nearby stores is arranged on a map.

[0058] Also, for example, the first providing unit 131 may provide the service user with first store information in which second content is arranged on a map to specify a store among nearby stores that distributes coupons to be given to the service user when using electronic payment.

[0059] Also, for example, the first providing unit 131 may provide the service user with first store information in which third content is arranged on a map to specify a store among nearby stores that distributes stamps to be given to the service user when making an electronic payment.

[0060] Also, for example, the first providing unit 131 may provide the service user with first store information in which fourth content for specifying a store that is in a predetermined congestion state among nearby stores is arranged on a map.

[0061] (Regarding the second providing unit 132) When at least one of the multiple contents placed in the first store information is selected, the second providing unit 132 obtains second store information about the store corresponding to the selected content, and provides the obtained second store information to the service user.

[0062] In addition, the second providing unit 132 may estimate the congestion level of each store based on the number of electronic payments made in the most recent specified period at the nearby stores, and acquire second store information regarding the store corresponding to the fourth content for specifying a store among the nearby stores that is in a specified congestion level according to the estimated congestion level.

[0063] [3. Example of processing procedure] Hereinafter, an example of the information processing procedure by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the information processing procedure executed by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. The processing procedure shown in Fig. 5 is executed by the control unit 130 included in the information processing device 100. The control unit 130 repeatedly executes the processing procedure shown in Fig. 5 while the information processing device 100 is operating.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 5, the first providing unit 131 determines whether or not a display request for nearby store information transmitted from the user terminal 10 has been acquired (Step S101).

[0065] When the first providing unit 131 determines that a request to display nearby store information has been acquired (Step S101; Yes), it identifies nearby stores that are within a predetermined distance range from the service user's current location based on the service user's location information and the location information included in the store information (Step S102).

[0066] In addition, the first providing unit 133 transmits to the user terminal 10 first store information in which promotional information issued by the store and multiple contents corresponding to benefit information granted to the service user when using electronic payment are arranged on a map showing the locations of the identified nearby stores (step S103).

[0067] Furthermore, the second providing unit 132 determines whether or not the selected content information transmitted from the user terminal 10 has been acquired (Step S104).

[0068] When it is determined that the selected content information has been acquired (Step S104; Yes), the second providing unit 132 acquires store information corresponding to the selected content (Step S105).

[0069] Furthermore, the second providing unit 132 transmits the acquired compatible store information to the user terminal 10 (step S106), and ends the processing procedure shown in FIG.

[0070] In the above step S104, if the second providing unit 132 determines that the selected content information has not been acquired (step S104; No), the second providing unit 132 ends the processing procedure shown in Fig. 7. For example, if the payment application is terminated in the user terminal 10 before the selected content information is acquired, the second providing unit 132 may end the processing procedure shown in Fig. 5.

[0071] In the above step S101, when it is determined that a display request for nearby store information has not been acquired (step S101; No), the first providing unit 131 ends the processing procedure shown in FIG.

[0072] 4. Modifications (4-1. Display of images showing store locations on a map) In the above embodiment, the information processing device 100 (for example, the first providing unit 131) may change the display mode of an image showing the position of a nearby store shown on a map in the first store information, based on the attributes of the nearby store. For example, the first providing unit 131 may highlight an image showing a store having unique attributes compared to other stores so that the image is more visible than the other stores. The first providing unit 131 may select a store having unique attributes from among the stores included in the nearby stores according to a predefined judgment condition. Stores having unique attributes are assumed to be stores that distribute advertisements, stores that are running area-limited campaigns, stores that give larger profit returns to service users than other stores, and the like. This allows the information processing device 100 to make it possible to grasp at a glance the stores and their location relationships that are beneficial to the service user UX from among the nearby stores.

[0073] (4-2. System configuration) In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the information processing device 100 included in the information processing system SYS performs processing related to an electronic payment service and also performs information processing according to the embodiment. However, the configuration of the information processing system SYS according to the embodiment does not need to be particularly limited to such an example, and the server device performing processing related to the electronic payment service and the server device performing information processing according to the embodiment may be physically separate servers, or each server device may be a server device belonging to a different system. In this case, each server device is connected to each other in a communicable manner in a state in which information required for each process can be exchanged in cooperation with each other.

[0074] In addition, among the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, and conversely, all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically by a known method. In addition, the information including the processing procedures, specific names, various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed arbitrarily unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the illustrated information.

[0075] In addition, each component of each device shown in the figure is a functional concept, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0076] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can be appropriately combined as long as the processing contents are not contradictory.

[0077] 5. Effects As described above, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment is an information processing device that performs various processes related to an electronic payment service that provides a service user with a payment means for settling the price of a transaction object by electronic payment using predetermined code information, and has a first providing unit 131 and a second providing unit 132. The first providing unit 131 provides the service user with first store information on a map showing the location of the store that introduces the electronic payment service, in which promotional information issued by the store and multiple contents corresponding to benefit information granted to the service user when using electronic payment are arranged. When at least one of the multiple contents arranged in the first store information is selected, the second providing unit 132 acquires second store information on the store corresponding to the selected content, and provides the acquired second store information to the service user.

[0078] Furthermore, the first providing unit 131 may provide the service user with first store information in which a plurality of contents are arranged on a map indicating the positions of nearby stores within a predetermined distance range from the current location of the service user.

[0079] The first providing unit 131 may provide the service user with first store information in which first content for specifying a store issuing a flyer from among nearby stores is arranged on a map.

[0080] In addition, the first providing unit 131 may provide the service user with first store information in which second content is arranged on a map to specify a store among nearby stores that distributes coupons to be given to the service user when making an electronic payment.

[0081] In addition, the first providing unit 131 may provide the service user with first store information in which third content is arranged on a map to specify a store among nearby stores that distributes stamps to be given to the service user when making an electronic payment.

[0082] The first providing unit 131 may provide the service user with first store information in which a fourth content for specifying a store that is in a predetermined crowded state among nearby stores is arranged on a map. The second providing unit 132 may estimate the crowded state of each store based on the number of times electronic payments were made in the nearby stores during the most recent predetermined period, obtain second store information related to the store corresponding to the fourth content according to the estimated crowded state, and provide the obtained second store information to the service user.

[0083] Furthermore, the first providing unit 131 may change the display mode of an image indicating the position of a nearby store shown on a map in the first store information, based on the attributes of the nearby store.

[0084] In this way, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment provides store information related to a store that is linked to user benefits selected by the service user UX from among nearby stores. This allows the information processing device 100 to improve usability in electronic payment services.

[0085] [6. Hardware Configuration] Moreover, the second server 20 and the third server 30 according to the above-described embodiment or modification are realized, for example, by a computer 1000 having a configuration as shown in Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the second server 20 and the third server 30 according to the embodiment or modification.

[0086] The computer 1000 has a CPU 1100, a RAM 1200, a ROM 1300, a HDD 1400, a communication interface (I / F) 1500, an input / output interface (I / F) 1600, and a media interface (I / F) 1700.

[0087] The CPU 1100 operates and controls each unit based on a program stored in the ROM 1300 or the HDD 1400. The ROM 1300 stores a boot program executed by the CPU 1100 when the computer 1000 is started up, programs that depend on the hardware of the computer 1000, and the like.

[0088] The HDD 1400 stores programs executed by the CPU 1100, data used by such programs, etc. The communication interface 1500 receives data from other devices via a communication network 500 (corresponding to the network N in the embodiment) and sends the data to the CPU 1100, and also transmits data generated by the CPU 1100 to other devices via the communication network 500.

[0089] The CPU 1100 controls output devices such as a display and a printer, and input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse, via the input / output interface 1600. The CPU 1100 acquires data from the input devices via the input / output interface 1600. The CPU 1100 also outputs data generated via the input / output interface 1600 to the output devices.

[0090] The media interface 1700 reads a program or data stored in the recording medium 1800 and provides it to the CPU 1100 via the RAM 1200. The CPU 1100 loads the program from the recording medium 1800 onto the RAM 1200 via the media interface 1700 and executes the loaded program. The recording medium 1800 is, for example, an optical recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) or a PD (Phase change rewritable Disc), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory.

[0091] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the second server 20 according to the embodiment or the modification, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 executes a program loaded on the RAM 1200 to realize the function of the control unit 230. That is, the CPU 1100 realizes the processing by the second server 20 according to the embodiment or the modification in cooperation with the program (e.g., an information processing program) loaded on the RAM 1200. In addition, the HDD 1400 stores each data in the storage device of the second server 20. The CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 reads and executes these programs from the recording medium 1800, but as another example, these programs may be obtained from another device via a predetermined communication network.

[0092] Also, for example, when the computer 1000 functions as the third server 30 according to the embodiment or the modification, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 executes a program loaded on the RAM 1200 to realize the function of the control unit 330. That is, the CPU 1100 realizes the processing by the third server 30 according to the embodiment or the modification in cooperation with the program (for example, an information processing program) loaded on the RAM 1200. Also, the HDD 1400 stores each data in the storage device of the third server 30. The CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 reads and executes these programs from the recording medium 1800, but as another example, these programs may be acquired from another device via a predetermined communication network.

[0093] [7. Other] Although some of the embodiments of the present application have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples, and the present invention can be embodied in other forms that incorporate various modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, including the aspects described in the Disclosure of the Invention section.

[0094] Further, the information processing device 100 described above can flexibly change its configuration, for example, by calling an external platform or the like using an API (Application Programming Interface) or network computing to realize some functions.

[0095] Furthermore, the term "unit" in the claims may be read as "means" or "circuit," etc. For example, a control unit may be read as control means or a control circuit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] SYS Information Processing System 10 User terminal 100 Information processing device 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Store information storage unit 130 Control section 131 Section 1 132 Section 2

Claims

1. An information processing device that performs various processes related to an electronic payment service, which provides a payment means to a service user for settling the price of a transaction using predetermined code information, A first provisioning unit provides to the service user via the application program, using the map display function of the application program provided to the service user for using the electronic payment service, a store location image showing the location of the store that has introduced the electronic payment service is placed on a map, and a first provisioning unit provides to the service user via the application program, which includes a first store information in which multiple profit type designation contents are arranged in association with the store location image to display information according to the selected profit type from among multiple different types of profits provided by the store to the service user in connection with the use of the electronic payment service at the store that has introduced the electronic payment service, and the contents for displaying information according to the selected profit type from among multiple different types of profits provided by the store to the service user in connection with the use of the electronic payment service at the store that has introduced the electronic payment service, and first store information in which multiple profit type designation contents are arranged in association with the store location image. When the service user selects one of the multiple profit type designation contents placed in the first store information, the second provisioning unit acquires second store information including information about profits corresponding to the selected profit type designation contents, and provides the acquired second store information to the service user via the application program. An information processing device characterized by having the following features.

2. The first supply unit is, The service user is provided with the first store information, which includes, on the map, a store location image corresponding to a nearby store located within a predetermined distance range from the service user's current location, and a user location image indicating the service user's current location. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The first supply unit is, The service user is provided with the first store information, which displays a series of different numbers corresponding to the number of nearby stores, one for each of the store location images, superimposed on each other without overlap. The information processing apparatus according to feature 2.

4. The first supply unit is, The display mode of the store location image is changed according to the average payment amount of payments made using the electronic payment service, and the first store information, which displays the store location image in the changed display mode, is provided to the service user. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

5. The first supply unit is, The service user is provided with the first store information which contains only the store location images associated with the profit type specified content selected by the service user. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

6. The first supply unit is, The service provides the service user with the first store information, in which the store location images of the nearby stores that are distributing advertisements are displayed in a different manner from the store location images of other stores that are not distributing advertisements. The information processing apparatus according to feature 2.

7. The first supply unit is, The service user is provided with the first store information, which displays the store location images of stores among the nearby stores that are conducting a campaign limited to a specific area, in a different display manner than the store location images corresponding to other stores that are not conducting the campaign. The information processing apparatus according to feature 2.

8. The first supply unit is, The service user is provided with first store information, in which a store location image corresponding to a store that provides greater benefits to the service user than other stores is displayed more prominently than the store location images corresponding to other stores among the aforementioned nearby stores. The information processing apparatus according to feature 2.

9. An information processing method performed by a computer that performs various processing related to an electronic payment service that provides a service user with a means of payment for settling the price of a transaction using predetermined code information, A first provision step involves providing the service user with first store information via the application program, which is provided to the service user for using the electronic payment service, by using the map display function of the application program to place a store location image on a map indicating the location of the store that has introduced the electronic payment service, and by placing multiple profit type specification contents, which are arranged in association with the store location image, to display information according to the selected profit type from among multiple different types of profits provided by the store to the service user in connection with the use of the electronic payment service at the store that has introduced the electronic payment service. When the service user selects one of the multiple profit type designation contents placed in the first store information, a second provision step is taken to acquire second store information containing information about profits corresponding to the selected profit type designation contents, and to provide the acquired second store information to the service user via the application program. An information processing method characterized by including

10. A computer that performs various processing related to an electronic payment service that provides service users with a means of payment for settling the price of a transaction using predetermined code information, A first provision procedure provides the service user with first store information via the application program, which is provided to the service user in order to use the electronic payment service, by using the map display function of the application program to place a store location image on a map that shows the location of the store that has introduced the electronic payment service, and by placing multiple profit type specification contents, which are arranged in association with the store location image, to display information according to the selected profit type from among multiple different types of profits that the store has introduced in order to use the electronic payment service at the store that has introduced the electronic payment service, in conjunction with the use of the electronic payment at the store. When the service user selects one of the multiple profit type designation contents placed in the first store information, a second provision procedure is performed to obtain second store information containing information about profits corresponding to the selected profit type designation contents, and to provide the obtained second store information to the service user via the application program. An information processing program characterized by causing the execution of [a specific action].

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