Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

To improve the usability of a person who orders gift cards.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus includes a management unit, an activation unit, and a balance processing unit. The management unit manages information on content which is to be used by a target person who may receive an electronic gift card available in an electronic settlement service, the target person being a user of the electronic settlement service, and information on the gift card which has not been activated, in association with each other. The activation unit activates the gift card to be made available when the use of the content by the target person meets preset conditions for receiving the gift card. The balance processing unit offers a privilege equivalent to the amount associated with the activated gift card to the target person.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

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, there are known techniques related to gift cards issued by retailers, banks, etc. For example, a technique has been proposed in which a request for activation of an electronic gift card is received from a purchaser of the gift card, and the gift card is activated in response to the received request. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2022-157617 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 usability for orderers who order gift cards.

[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 usability for customers ordering gift cards. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The information processing device according to the present application has a management unit, an activation unit, and a balance processing unit. The management unit manages information on content to be used by a target person who is a service user of an electronic payment service and who may be an acquirer of an electronic gift card that can be used in the electronic payment service, in association with information on the gift card before it is activated. The activation unit activates the gift card so that it can be used when the target person's usage mode of the content satisfies a preset condition for acquiring the gift card. The balance processing unit grants the target person a benefit equivalent to the amount associated with the activated gift card. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to improve usability for a customer ordering a gift card. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an overview of information processing (part 1) according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of information processing (part 1) according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an overview of information processing (part 2) according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of information processing (part 2) according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a gift card information database according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a content database according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user information database according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing procedure of information processing executed by the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the payment server and the credit card server that constitute the information processing system 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. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing system according to the embodiment.

[0011] As shown in Fig. 1, an information processing system SYS according to an embodiment includes a client device 10, a user device 20, and an information processing device 100. The client device 10, the user device 20, and the information processing device 100 are connected to a network N (see Fig. 6, for example) by wire or wirelessly. The client device 10, the user device 20, 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] Note that the configuration of the information processing system SYS shown in Fig. 1 is an example, and may include more client devices 10 and user devices 20 than those illustrated in Fig. 1, or may include other devices other than those illustrated in Fig. 1. For example, the other devices may include a server device that executes payment processing for code payment (also referred to as "smartphone payment" if the user device 20 is a smartphone), which is an example of electronic payment executed using the user device 20 described below.

[0013] 1 is an information processing device that executes information processing according to the embodiment, and is operated and managed, for example, by a service provider that provides electronic payment services (for example, the service provider PF shown in FIGS. 2 to 5). When the information processing device 100 is configured as a server device, it may be realized by a single server device, or may be realized by a cloud system in which multiple server devices and multiple storage devices operate in cooperation with each other.

[0014] The electronic payment service provided by the information processing device 100 shown in Fig. 1 enables a user (such as user UA shown in Figs. 2 and 3) who is a service user of the electronic payment service to easily pay for an object to be received. For example, the information processing device 100 manages electronic money accounts (also called "electronic wallets") of providers of transaction objects and users to whom transaction objects are provided, and realizes various types of payments by transferring electronic money between accounts in response to a payment request from a user. Note that electronic money may be, for example, points or currency used independently by various companies, or may be electronically tradable currency provided by a country, such as Japanese yen or dollars.

[0015] Furthermore, as information processing according to the embodiment, the information processing device 100 manages gift card information related to electronic gift cards that can be used in electronic payment services, and executes predetermined information processing in response to requests from gift card orderers and gift card acquirers. For example, the information processing device 100 issues a gift card to a user of an electronic payment service who has acquired a gift card, in response to a request from the orderer, which grants the user who has acquired the gift card points that can be used in transactions using the electronic payment service.

[0016] 1 is an information processing device used by a business operator who operates a profit-making business such as a general company. The client device 10 can be realized, for example, by a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), a desktop PC, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or the like. The client device 10 can display information distributed by an information processing device 100 or the like using a web browser or an application.

[0017] The user device 20 shown in Fig. 1 is an information processing device used by a user (such as a user UA shown in Figs. 2 and 3) who is a service user of an electronic payment service. The user device 20 can be realized by a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), a desktop PC, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or the like. The user device 20 can display information distributed by the information processing device 100 or the like by a web browser or an application.

[0018] 1, when receiving control information for implementing a predetermined information process from the information processing device 100 or the like, the client device 10 and the user device 20 implement the information process according to 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), a markup language such as HTML (HyperText Markup Language), or the like. Note that a predetermined application itself delivered from the information processing device 100 or the like may be regarded as the control information.

[0019] (1-2. Payment Using User Device 20) Here, an example of code payment using the user device 20 will be described. In the following description, for example, a two-dimensional code (QR code (registered trademark)) placed in a specific store and indicating store identification information that identifies the specific store is used to perform a payment using the user device 20 by a user UA (see FIG. 2, for example), who is a service user 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 device 20 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 that is 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.

[0020] For example, when the user UA makes a payment for the purchase or use of a transaction object such as various products or services at a specific store, the user UA launches a payment app pre-installed on the user device 20 to use code payment. The user UA can use various functions related to code payment through the payment app. The user UA then photographs a two-dimensional code installed at the specific store through the payment app. In such a case, the user device 20 displays a screen for inputting the price of the transaction object, and accepts input of the payment amount from the user UA or a clerk at the specific store. The user device 20 then transmits transaction information including user identification information for identifying the user UA, 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.

[0021] When the information processing device 100 accepts the transaction information from the user device 20, it transfers electronic money equivalent to the payment amount from the account of the user UA 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 is completed to the user device 20. In such a case, the user device 20 notifies the user UA that the electronic money transaction is completed by outputting a screen or a predetermined sound indicating that the transaction is completed. Alternatively, the information processing device 100 may withdraw electronic money equivalent to the payment amount from the account of the user UA indicated by the user identification information, manage it as sales information of the specified store, and transfer cash equivalent to the sales to a bank account held by the specified store at a predetermined timing. In this case, the information processing device 100 may notify the user UA that the transaction using electronic money has been completed at the time when electronic money equivalent to the payment amount has been withdrawn from the account of the user UA.

[0022] It should be noted that the payment using the user device 20 is not limited to the above-mentioned process. For example, the payment using the user device 20 may be made using a terminal device (hereinafter referred to as a "store terminal") installed in a specific store. Specifically, the user device 20 first displays code information indicating user identification information for identifying the user UA on a screen. In such a case, the store terminal reads the user identification information from the code information displayed on the user device 20, and transmits transaction information including the read user identification information (or information indicated by the user identification information, i.e., information indicating the user UA (e.g., user ID)), the payment amount, and information identifying the specific store to the information processing device 100.

[0023] 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 user UA 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 device 20. The store terminal or the user device 20 notifies the user UA 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 user UA 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 specified timing. In this case, the information processing device 100 may notify the store clerk or the user UA 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 user UA.

[0024] Furthermore, the payment using the user device 20 may not only be a process of transferring electronic money from an account to which the user UA has previously charged electronic money to an account of a specific store, but may also be a payment using a credit card registered in advance by the user UA. In such a case, for example, the user device 20 may transfer electronic money in an amount indicated by the payment amount to the account of the specific store, and may also bill the operating company of the user UA's credit card for the amount indicated by the payment amount.

[0025] Furthermore, the settlement using the user device 20 may not only be a process of transferring electronic money from the account of the user UA to the account of a specific store, but may also be, for example, a settlement of transferring electronic money from the account of the user UA to the account of another user (i.e., a remittance between users). For example, the user device 20 used by the remittance source user UA reads user identification information identifying the remittance destination user (for example, user identification information displayed on a terminal device used by the remittance destination user), accepts an input of the remittance amount from the user UA, and transmits information indicating the read identification information, the remittance amount, and the user identification information identifying the user UA 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 user UA to the account of the remittance destination user, and notify the user device 20 or the terminal device used by the remittance destination user of the completion of the remittance by outputting a screen or a predetermined sound indicating that the remittance has been completed.

[0026] Note that remittance using the user device 20 is not limited to the above-mentioned process. For example, remittance using the user device 20 may be performed by inputting the telephone number of the remittance destination user or information indicating the remittance destination user (e.g., user ID) into the user device 20. As a specific example, the user device 20 accepts input of the telephone number or user ID of the remittance destination user and the remittance amount from the user UA, and transmits the input telephone number or user ID, the remittance amount, and user identification information for identifying the user UA to the information processing device 100. The information processing device 100 then transfers electronic money in an amount indicated by the remittance amount from the account of the user UA to the account of the user linked to the transmitted telephone number or user ID.

[0027] 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 device 20 accepts, from the user UA, 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 user UA.

[0028] Furthermore, for example, remittance using the user device 20 may be performed by providing the remittance user with link information for receiving the remittance amount. As a specific example, the user device 20 accepts an input of the remittance amount from the user UA, generates link information for receiving the remittance amount, and provides the link information to a terminal device used by the remittance user by sending an email 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 user UA to the account of the remittance user.

[0029] 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.

[0030] (1-3. Overview of Information Processing (part 1) according to the embodiment) Conventional gift cards are activated at the time of issuance, i.e., in a usable state, and require security measures similar to those for cash vouchers having monetary value. In addition, in the case of conventional gift cards, when an expiration date needs to be set from the time of issuance, there are quite a few gift cards that unintentionally pass the expiration date and become invalid, which is a business issue. In addition, conventional gift cards have room for improvement in terms of creating added value. Therefore, in order to address these problems, the present application implements the embodiment described below. An outline of information processing (part 1) according to the embodiment will be described below. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of information processing (part 1) according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 assumes a campaign implemented by the client CA as a sales promotion activity as a scenario in which a gift card ordered by the client CA is used.

[0031] As shown in Fig. 2, the client CA orders a gift card and delivers video content to the service provider PF (step S01-1). The video content that the client CA delivers to the service provider PF together with the order for the gift card is content for use by the user UA, who is a potential recipient of the gift card. This video content records moving images created for participants who will take part in a campaign implemented by the client CA. After the order for the gift card is placed, the client CA implements the campaign (step S01-2).

[0032] The service provider PF stores the video content delivered from the client CA who is the orderer of the gift card (step S01-3).

[0033] The user UA enters a campaign implemented by the client CA, and purchases a product to satisfy the campaign participation conditions (step S01-4). The user UA also watches a video related to the campaign in which the user UA participated (step S01-5).

[0034] If the viewing time of the video content by the user UA who participated in the campaign satisfies the condition for obtaining the gift card, the service provider PF validates the gift card associated with the video content viewed by the user UA. The service provider PF then grants points that can be used in transactions using electronic payment services to the user UA who has obtained the gift card (step S01-6).

[0035] (1-4. Specific Example of Information Processing (Part 1) According to the Embodiment) A specific example of information processing (part 1) according to the embodiment will be described below. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of information processing (part 1) according to the embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the client CA and the client device 10 may be regarded as the same. That is, the client device 10 may be read as the client CA. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the user UA and the user device 20 may be regarded as the same. That is, the user device 20 may be read as the user UA. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the service provider PF and the information processing device 100 may be regarded as the same. That is, the information processing device 100 may be read as the service provider PF.

[0036] As shown in Fig. 3, the client CA applies for a service to the service provider PF, requesting delivery of an electronic gift card (hereinafter, referred to as a "gift exchange ticket" in the explanation of Fig. 3) that can be used in an electronic payment service. For example, when applying for a service, the client CA operates the client device 10 to access a website for service applications prepared by the service provider PF, and places an order for a gift exchange ticket to be provided to campaign participants and delivers video content created for the campaign participants (step S1-1).

[0037] In addition, the client CA conducts a predetermined campaign to provide electronic gift exchange coupons that can be used in electronic payment services (step S1-2).

[0038] When the service provider PF accepts the application for the service from the client CA, it concludes a contract with the client CA and examines the campaign contents (step S1-3). If there is no problem with the campaign contents, the information processing device 100 stores the video content in a predetermined database (step S1-4), and stores information on the gift exchange coupons (e.g., #1 to #100) prepared based on the contents of the contract with the client CA in a predetermined database (step S1-5).

[0039] For example, in accordance with operations from the service provider PF, the information processing device 100 manages, in association with each other, identification information for identifying the client CA who is the orderer of an electronic gift exchange voucher that can be used in the electronic payment service, information on video content to be used by a user of the electronic payment service who is a potential recipient of the gift exchange voucher (for example, user UA shown in Figure 3), and information on the gift exchange voucher before it is activated.

[0040] The information processing device 100 manages the contents of the contract concluded between the client CA, who is the orderer of the gift exchange voucher, and the service provider PF as the information of the gift exchange voucher. For example, the contents of the contract include a group ID, which is identification information for identifying a group indicating the order unit of the gift exchange voucher, the number of points (or the amount of electronic money) granted when the gift exchange voucher is used, the validity period of the gift exchange voucher, a gift card ID, which is identification information for identifying each gift exchange voucher, a gift code assigned to each gift exchange voucher, and a status flag indicating whether the gift exchange voucher is valid or not. In the following, a case will be described in which points preset for the gift exchange voucher are charged to the user UA as a benefit granted to the user UA by the gift exchange voucher, but the same processing can be performed when electronic money of an amount preset for the gift exchange voucher is charged to the user UA.

[0041] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 manages the conditions for obtaining a gift exchange ticket as the contents of a contract concluded with the client CA. For example, the information processing device 100 can manage a condition related to the viewing time of video content set by the client CA as a condition for obtaining a gift exchange ticket. For example, the condition related to the viewing time of video content is assumed to be a judgment threshold for judging whether the viewing time of video content exceeds a certain time.

[0042] After storing the video content and the gift exchange ticket, the service provider PF delivers to the client CA information on a video URL for allowing the campaign participants to view the video content created for the campaign participants. For example, the information processing device 100 transmits information on the video URL to the client device 10. In addition, when delivering the video URL, the service provider PF also delivers to the client CA information on the gift exchange ticket issued based on the contract with the client CA.

[0043] A user UA, who is a user of an electronic payment service, participates in a campaign implemented by the client CA (step S1-6). For example, the user UA obtains eligibility to participate in a campaign implemented by the client CA (e.g., purchasing a product). The user UA then operates the user device 20 to access a campaign site of the client CA and transmits a request to the client device 10 to apply for participation in the campaign. Note that the user UA may obtain eligibility to participate in the campaign after making a request to apply for participation in the campaign.

[0044] The client CA sends a video URL to the user UA who has requested to apply for participation in the campaign, for allowing the campaign participant to view video content created for the campaign participant (step S1-7). For example, the client device 10 transmits information about the video URL to the user device 20 in response to the request for application to participate in the campaign received from the user device 20.

[0045] The user UA accesses the video URL provided by the client CA and watches the video content created for the campaign participants (step S1-8). For example, the user device 20 reads the data of the video content linked to the video URL according to the operation of the user UA, and plays it on a display device such as a display.

[0046] When the information processing device 100 detects that the user UA is viewing video content, it measures the viewing time of the video content and judges whether or not the viewing time of the video content meets the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket. For example, when the viewing time of the video content exceeds a judgment threshold, the information processing device 100 derives a judgment result that the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket is met. In addition, the information processing device 100 may derive a judgment result that the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket is met when the video content is played to the end. When the user UA meets the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket, the service provider PF activates the gift exchange ticket and notifies the client CA of information of the activated gift exchange ticket. For example, when user UA meets the conditions for obtaining a gift exchange ticket, information processing device 100 arbitrarily selects a gift exchange ticket (e.g., #1) to provide to user UA from multiple unactivated gift exchange tickets (e.g., #1 to #100) issued based on a contract with client CA, activates the selected gift exchange ticket, and sends information about the activated gift exchange ticket (e.g., gift card ID, gift code, etc.) to client device 10.

[0047] When the client CA acquires the information of the activated gift exchange coupon from the service provider PF, the client CA sends the information of the activated gift exchange coupon and a charge URL for accepting a gift receiving procedure from the user UA to the user UA (step S1-9). For example, the client device 10 transmits the information of the activated gift exchange coupon and the charge URL to the user device 20.

[0048] The user UA accesses the charge URL sent from the client CA (step S1-10) to display a website for carrying out a procedure for receiving the gift. The user UA then operates an icon provided on the website to start the procedure for receiving the gift. As a result, for example, a payment application pre-installed in the user device 20 is automatically started, and an application screen for registering a gift code is displayed. The user UA registers the gift code described in the gift exchange coupon sent from the client CA to this application screen, and then operates an icon provided on the application screen to send a charge request requesting receipt of the gift. As a result, the user device 20 transmits a charge request including the gift code and account information such as a user ID held by the user UA in the electronic payment service to the information processing device 100 (step S1-11). In this way, the information processing device 100 can identify the correspondence between the user UA who satisfies the condition for acquiring the gift exchange coupon and the account information such as a user ID held by the user UA in the electronic payment service through the charge URL. If the payment application is not installed in the user device 20, the user device 20 may display information for acquiring the payment application (for example, a download URL, etc.).

[0049] When the information processing device 100 receives a charge request from the user device 20, it executes a cancellation process for the gift exchange voucher to which the gift code included in the charge request is assigned (step S1-12). In addition, the information processing device 100 charges points equivalent to the amount associated with the gift code included in the charge request to the electronic wallet linked to the user ID included in the charge request through the balance API (steps S1-13, S1-14).

[0050] Furthermore, the service provider PF creates a report on the processing carried out in response to the charge request based on the gift exchange coupon at a predetermined timing (step S1-15), and delivers the created report to the client CA.

[0051] The client CA receives the report created by the service provider PF (step S1-16).

[0052] The information processing device 100 may directly transmit information on the activated gift exchange ticket and a charge URL for accepting a procedure for receiving a gift from the user UA to the user device 20. In this case, when the user UA accesses the charge URL, a payment application installed in the user device 20 is automatically started, and an application screen for registering a gift code is displayed on the user device 20.

[0053] As described above, according to the information processing (part 1) according to the embodiment, the information processing device 100 validates the gift exchange ticket on condition that the user UA, who is a campaign participant and who may be the winner of the gift exchange ticket ordered by the client CA, satisfies the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket that is preset by the client CA. As a result, the information processing device 100 does not validate the gift exchange ticket at the time of issuance, so that the risk of the gift exchange ticket being unintentionally expired can be reduced. In addition, the information processing device 100 starts the validity period of the gift exchange ticket on condition that the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket that is preset by the client CA is satisfied, so that the burden of security measures for storing the gift exchange ticket in a secure environment can be reduced. In addition, the information processing device 100 can create added value that reflects the intention of the orderer's sales measures by validating the gift exchange ticket on condition that the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket that is preset by the client CA is satisfied.

[0054] (1-5. Overview of Information Processing (Part 2) According to the Embodiment) An overview of information processing (part 2) according to an embodiment will be described below. Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining an overview of information processing (part 2) according to an embodiment. The information processing (part 2) shown in Fig. 4 differs from the information processing (part 1) described above in terms of usage. That is, Fig. 4 assumes sales activities of client CB as a usage scenario for gift cards ordered by client CB.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 4, the client CB places an order for a gift card and delivers video content to the service provider PF (step S02-1). The video content that the client CB delivers to the service provider PF together with the order for the gift card is intended for use by the business partner UC (i.e., the business partner's employees) who are potential recipients of the gift card. This video content records video images created by the client CB for the business partner. This video image may be, for example, a promotional video (PV) introducing products manufactured by the client CB or a PV recording a greeting from a sales representative.

[0056] The service provider PF stores the video content delivered from the client CB, who is the orderer of the gift card (step S02-2). The service provider PF provides the client CB with information on the video URL for viewing the video content and information on the gift card.

[0057] After placing an order for the gift card, the client CB creates video viewing code information based on the video URL provided by the service provider PF, creates a business card with the created video viewing code information written on it, and distributes the created business card and gift card to the sales representative UB (step S02-3). When the sales representative UB holds the business card and gift card created by the client CB and negotiates with the business partner UC, he hands the business card and gift card he has in his possession to the business partner UC (step S02-4).

[0058] The business partner UC views the video content through the video viewing code information written on the business card (step S02-5).

[0059] If the viewing time of the video content by the business partner UC satisfies the condition for obtaining the gift card, the service provider PF validates the gift card associated with the video content viewed by the business partner UC. Then, the service provider PF grants points that can be used in transactions using the electronic payment service to the business partner UC who has obtained the gift card, in response to a request from the business partner UC (step S02-6).

[0060] (1-6. Specific Example of Information Processing (Part 2) According to the Embodiment) A specific example of information processing (part 2) according to the embodiment will be described below. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of information processing (part 2) according to the embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the client CB and the client device 10 may be regarded as the same. That is, the client device 10 may be read as the client CB. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the business partner UC and the user device 20 may be regarded as the same. That is, the user device 20 may be read as the business partner UC. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the service provider PF and the information processing device 100 may be regarded as the same. That is, the information processing device 100 may be read as the service provider PF.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 5, the client CB applies for a service to the service provider PF to request delivery of an electronic gift card (hereinafter, referred to as a "gift voucher" in the explanation of Fig. 5) that can be used in an electronic payment service (step S2-1). For example, when applying for a service, the client CB operates the client device 10 to access a website for service applications prepared by the service provider PF, places an order for the gift voucher, and delivers the video content created for the business partner.

[0062] When the service provider PF accepts an application for a service from the client CB, the service provider PF concludes a contract with the client CB and examines the content of the video content delivered from the client CB (step S2-2). If there is no problem with the content of the video content, the information processing device 100 stores the video content in a predetermined database (step S2-3), and stores information on the gift exchange coupons (e.g., #1 to #100) prepared based on the content of the contract with the client CB in the predetermined database (step S2-4).

[0063] For example, in accordance with operations from the service provider PF, the information processing device 100 manages, in association with each other, identification information for identifying the client CB who is the orderer of an electronic gift exchange voucher that can be used in the electronic payment service, information on video content to be used by a user of the electronic payment service who is a potential recipient of the gift exchange voucher (for example, the business partner UC shown in Figure 5), and information on the gift exchange voucher before it is activated.

[0064] The information processing device 100 manages the contents of the contract concluded between the client CB, who is the purchaser of the gift exchange voucher, and the service provider PF as the information of the gift exchange voucher. For example, the contents of the contract include a group ID, which is identification information for identifying a group indicating an ordering unit of the gift exchange voucher, the number of points (or the amount of electronic money) granted when the gift exchange voucher is used, the validity period of the gift exchange voucher, a gift card ID, which is identification information for identifying each gift exchange voucher, a gift code assigned to each gift exchange voucher, and a status flag indicating whether the gift exchange voucher is valid or not. Note that, in the following, a case will be described in which points preset for the gift exchange voucher are charged to the business partner UC as a benefit granted to the business partner UC by the gift exchange voucher, but the same processing can be performed when electronic money of an amount preset for the gift exchange voucher is charged to the business partner UC.

[0065] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 manages the conditions for obtaining a gift exchange ticket as the contents of a contract concluded with the client CB. For example, the information processing device 100 can manage a condition related to the viewing time of a video content set by the client CB as a condition for obtaining a gift exchange ticket. For example, the condition related to the viewing time of the video content is assumed to be a determination threshold for determining whether the viewing time of the video content exceeds a certain time.

[0066] After storing the video content and the gift exchange ticket, the service provider PF delivers to the client CB information on a video URL for viewing the video content created for the business partner. For example, the information processing device 100 transmits information on the video URL to the client device 10. When delivering the video URL, the service provider PF also delivers to the client CB information on the gift exchange ticket issued based on the contract with the client CB.

[0067] When the client CB receives the video URL and the gift exchange coupon from the service provider PF, the client CB creates a video viewing code based on the video URL provided by the service provider PF, and creates a business card with the created video viewing code (step S2-5). The sales representative UB (see FIG. 4) visits the business partner UC with the business card and the gift exchange coupon created by the client CB.

[0068] The business partner UC views the video content through the video viewing code information written on the business card handed over by the sales representative UB (step S2-6). For example, the user device 20 reads the data of the video content linked to the video URL according to the operation of the business partner UC, and plays it on a display device such as a display.

[0069] When the information processing device 100 detects that the business partner UC has viewed the video content, it measures the viewing time of the video content and judges whether the viewing time of the video content meets the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket. For example, when the viewing time of the video content exceeds a judgment threshold, the information processing device 100 derives a judgment result that the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket is met. When the business partner UC meets the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket, the service provider PF validates the gift exchange ticket and notifies the client CB of information on the validated gift exchange ticket. For example, when the user UA meets the acquisition condition of the gift exchange ticket, the information processing device 100 selects a gift exchange ticket (e.g., #1) to be provided to the business partner UC from among multiple gift exchange tickets (e.g., #1 to #100) issued based on a contract with the client CB, validates the selected gift exchange ticket, and transmits information on the validated gift exchange ticket (e.g., a gift card ID and a gift code) to the client device 10.

[0070] When the client CB acquires the information of the activated gift exchange coupon from the service provider PF, the client CB sends a charge URL for accepting the gift receiving procedure from the business partner UC to the business partner UC (step S2-7). For example, the client device 10 transmits the information of the activated gift exchange coupon and the charge URL to the user device 20.

[0071] The business partner UC accesses the charge URL sent from the client CB (step S2-8) and displays a website for carrying out the gift receiving procedure. The business partner UC then operates an icon provided on the website to start the gift receiving procedure. As a result, for example, a payment application installed in the user device 20 is automatically started, and an application screen for registering a gift code is displayed. The business partner UC registers the gift code written on the gift exchange coupon handed over by the sales representative UB to this application screen, and then operates an icon provided on the application screen to send a charge request requesting receipt of the gift. As a result, the user device 20 transmits a charge request including the gift code and account information such as a user ID held by the business partner UC in the electronic payment service to the information processing device 100 (step S2-9). As a result, the information processing device 100 can identify the correspondence between the business partner UC who satisfies the condition for acquiring the gift exchange coupon and the account information such as a user ID held by this business partner UC in the electronic payment service through the charge URL. If the payment application is not installed in the user device 20, the user device 20 may display information for acquiring the payment application (for example, a download URL, etc.).

[0072] When the information processing device 100 receives a charge request from the user device 20, it executes a cancellation process for the gift exchange voucher to which the gift code included in the charge request is assigned (step S2-10). In addition, the information processing device 100 charges points equivalent to the amount associated with the gift code included in the charge request to the electronic wallet linked to the user ID included in the charge request through the balance API (steps S2-11, S2-12).

[0073] Furthermore, the service provider PF creates a report on the processing carried out in response to the charge request based on the gift exchange coupon at a predetermined timing (step S2-13), and delivers the created report to the client CB.

[0074] The client CB receives the report created by the service provider PF (step S2-14).

[0075] As described above, according to the information processing of the embodiment (part 2), the information processing device 100 can reduce the risk of gift exchange coupons expiring and reduce the burden of security measures, as well as create added value that reflects the intentions of the orderer's business strategy through sales activities.

[0076] 2. Configuration of Information Processing Device 100 Hereinafter, an example of a functional configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 6, the information processing device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0077] (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 client device 10 and the user device 20.

[0078] (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. 6, the storage unit 120 has a gift card information database 121, a content database 122, and a user information database 123.

[0079] (About Gift Card Information Database 121) Gift card information database 121 stores various information related to electronic gift cards. An example of information stored in gift card information database 121 will be described below with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the gift card information database according to the embodiment.

[0080] 7, the gift card information database 121 has a number of items such as "orderer ID", "group ID", "validity period", "amount", "gift card ID", "gift code", "status flag", etc. The information stored in these items in the gift card information database 121 is mutually associated.

[0081] The "Orderer ID" field stores identification information for identifying the orderer who placed the gift card. The "Group ID" field stores identification information for identifying the order unit (also called a group) of the gift card.

[0082] The "Validity Period" field stores information indicating the validity period of the gift card. The "Amount" field stores information indicating the amount of points (or electronic money) provided by the gift card. The "Gift Card ID" field stores identification information for identifying the gift card.

[0083] The "Gift Code" field stores the code assigned to the gift card. This code is composed of a string of characters, for example, a combination of alphanumeric characters and symbols. The "Status Flag" field stores information indicating whether the gift card is activated or not. For example, when "0" is stored in the "Status Flag" field, this indicates that the gift card is in a state before it is activated. On the other hand, when "1" is stored in the "Status Flag" field, this indicates that the gift card has been activated.

[0084] (About Content Database 122) Content database 122 stores information on video content delivered by gift card orderers. An example of information stored in content database 122 will be described below with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a content database according to an embodiment.

[0085] 8, the content database 122 has a number of items such as a "content ID," an "orderer ID," a "gift card ID," a "gift code," etc. The information stored in these items in the content database 122 is associated with each other.

[0086] The "Content ID" field stores identification information for identifying the content delivered by the purchaser who placed the gift card. The "Purchaser ID" field stores identification information for identifying the purchaser who placed the gift card and delivered the content. The information stored in the "Gift Card ID" field and the "Gift Code" field is the same as the example shown in FIG. 7.

[0087] (About User Information Database 123) The user information database 123 stores information about users who are service users of the electronic payment service. An example of information stored in the user information database 123 will be described below with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the user information database according to the embodiment.

[0088] 9, the user information database 123 has a number of items such as "user ID," "money balance," "point balance," etc. The information stored in these items in the user information database 123 is associated with each other.

[0089] The "User ID" field stores identification information for uniquely identifying a user who is a service user of the electronic payment service. The "Money Balance" field stores information indicating the money balance, which is the balance of electronic money secured in an electronic wallet held by the user in the electronic payment service. The "Point Balance" field stores information indicating the point balance, which is the balance of points secured in an electronic wallet held by the user in the electronic payment service. The user can use the money balance and point balance to pay for items through code payment via the electronic payment service.

[0090] (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).

[0091] 6, the control unit 130 has a management unit 131, a validation unit 132, a provision unit 133, and a balance processing unit 134, 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. 6 introduced in response to the expansion of various processes executed by the information processing device 100.

[0092] (Regarding Management Department 131) The management unit 131 manages, in association with each other, identification information for specifying the orderer of an electronic gift card that can be used in an electronic payment service, information on content to be used by users of the electronic payment service who are potential recipients of the gift card, and information on the gift card before it is activated.

[0093] For example, when the management unit 131 receives an order for a gift card from a client CA, the management unit 131 registers information based on the contents of the contract with the client CA in the gift card information database 121 in association with identification information for identifying the client CA who has ordered the gift card. The management unit 131 also registers video content received from the client CA when ordering the gift card in the content database 122 in association with identification information for identifying the client CA who has ordered the gift card.

[0094] The content may be configured to be available by directly providing a URL, or may be configured to be available to the target person by reading code information printed on printed materials distributed by the orderer.

[0095] (Regarding the validation unit 132) When the usage mode of the content by the target person satisfies the gift card acquisition condition preset by the orderer, the activation unit 132 activates the gift card to a usable state. For example, when the viewing time of the video content by the target person satisfies the acquisition condition, the activation unit 132 activates the gift card associated with the video content viewed by the target person.

[0096] (About the provider 133) The providing unit 133 provides the orderer with information for using the activated gift card. For example, the providing unit 133 provides the orderer with information on the activated gift card (for example, a gift card ID, a gift code, etc.).

[0097] (Regarding the balance processing section 134) The balance processing unit 134, in response to a charge request from a target user, grants points set in the gift card (i.e., charges points) or charges the money balance. For example, the balance processing unit 134 charges points (or electronic money) equivalent to the amount associated with the gift code included in the charge request to an electronic wallet linked to a user ID included in the charge request through a balance API.

[0098] In addition, when the balance processing unit 134 receives a charge request transmitted from the user device 20 via the communication unit 110, it executes a cancellation process for the gift card to which the gift code included in the received charge request is assigned.

[0099] [3. Example of processing procedure] Hereinafter, a flow of information processing executed by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of information processing executed by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. The processing procedure shown in Fig. 10 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. 10 while the information processing device 100 is operating.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 10, when detecting that a target person who is a potential recipient of a gift card has viewed video content, the validation unit 132 determines whether the viewing time of the video content exceeds a threshold (step S101).

[0101] When it is determined that the viewing time of the video content exceeds the threshold (step S101: Yes), the validation unit 132 validates the gift card corresponding to the video content (step S102).

[0102] The providing unit 133 provides the information for using the validated gift card to the orderer of the gift card (step S103), and ends the processing procedure shown in FIG.

[0103] In the above-mentioned step S101, if the validation unit 132 determines that the viewing time of the video content is equal to or less than the threshold value (step S101: No), the processing procedure shown in FIG. 10 ends.

[0104] 4. Modifications (4-1. Conditions for obtaining a gift card) In the above embodiment, the information processing device 100 can accept any condition as a condition for obtaining a gift card from the orderer of the gift card. For example, the information processing device 100 does not need to be particularly limited to the viewing time of video content, and may accept the number of viewings in a predetermined period, viewing of multiple video contents associated with the gift card, etc. as the condition for obtaining the gift card. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 does not need to particularly limit the content delivered from the orderer of the gift card to video content, and may accept any content that is managed by the information processing device 100 and can detect the usage state of the content.

[0105] (4-2. Linking content and gift cards) Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the management unit 131 of the information processing device 100 may duplicate the video content delivered by the orderer of the gift card in accordance with the number of gift cards to be issued to the orderer, and may individually link each of the duplicated video content and any one of the gift cards on a one-to-one basis, and store the duplicated video content and the gift cards in the content database 122. In this way, by linking the video content and the gift card on a one-to-one basis in advance, the activation unit 132 of the information processing device 100 may eliminate the need to select a gift card to be activated in response to the viewing of the video content by the target person.

[0106] (4-3. System configuration, etc.) In the above-described embodiment, the information processing device 100 constituting the information processing system SYS according to the embodiment may be configured to include multiple servers in which processing functions for executing payment processing corresponding to an electronic payment service and processing functions for executing information processing according to the embodiment are functionally or physically distributed.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can be appropriately combined as long as the processing contents are not contradictory.

[0110] 5. Effects As described above, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment includes the management unit 131, the activation unit 132, and the provision unit 133. The management unit 131 manages, in association with each other, identification information for identifying an orderer of an electronic gift card that can be used in an electronic payment service, information on content to be used by a target person who is a service user of the electronic payment service and who can be a gift card acquirer, and information on the gift card before it is activated. The activation unit 132 activates the gift card so that it can be used when the target person's usage mode of the content satisfies the gift card acquisition condition preset by the orderer. The provision unit 133 provides the orderer with information for using the activated gift card.

[0111] In this way, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment does not activate the gift card at the time of issuance, so that the risk of the gift card being unintentionally expired can be reduced. In addition, the information processing device 100 starts the validity period of the gift card on the condition that the condition for acquiring the gift card, which is set in advance by the orderer, is satisfied, so that the burden of security measures for storing the gift card in a secure environment can be reduced. In addition, the information processing device 100 activates the gift card on the condition that the condition for acquiring the gift card, which is set in advance by the orderer, is satisfied, so that added value that reflects the intention of the orderer's sales measures, etc. can be created.

[0112] Furthermore, the management unit 131 may manage video content to be viewed by the target person as the content. When the viewing time of the video content by the target person satisfies the acquisition condition, the validation unit 132 may validate a gift card associated with the video content viewed by the target person. This allows the information processing device 100 to validate the gift card according to the viewing manner of the video content.

[0113] In addition, the validation unit 132 may validate the gift card when the usage of the content by the target person participating in the campaign implemented by the orderer satisfies the acquisition condition. This allows the information processing device 100 to create added value that reflects the intention of the orderer's sales strategy, etc.

[0114] The content may be configured to be available to the target person by reading code information printed on a printed matter distributed by the purchaser. The validation unit 132 may also validate the gift card when the target person uses the content corresponding to the code information in a manner that satisfies the acquisition condition. This allows the information processing device 100 to create added value that reflects the intention of the purchaser's business strategy through sales activities, for example.

[0115] [6. Hardware Configuration] Moreover, the information processing device 100 according to the above-described embodiment or modification is realized, for example, by a computer 1000 having a configuration as shown in Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment or modification.

[0116] The computer 1000 is connected to an output device 1010 and an input device 1020, and has a configuration in which an arithmetic unit 1030, a primary storage device 1040, a secondary storage device 1050, an output IF (Interface) 1060, an input IF 1070, and a network IF 1080 are connected via a bus 1090.

[0117] The arithmetic device 1030 operates based on programs stored in the primary storage device 1040 and the secondary storage device 1050 and programs read from the input device 1020, and executes various processes. The primary storage device 1040 is a memory device, such as a RAM, that temporarily stores data used by the arithmetic device 1030 for various calculations. The secondary storage device 1050 is a storage device in which data used by the arithmetic device 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and is realized by a ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD, flash memory, etc.

[0118] The output IF 1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to an output device 1010 that outputs various types of information, such as a monitor or a printer, and is realized by a connector conforming to a standard such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), a registered trademark. The input IF 1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as a mouse, keyboard, and scanner, and is realized by a USB, for example.

[0119] The input device 1020 may be a device that reads information from an optical recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or a PD (Phase change rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. The input device 1020 may also be an external storage medium such as a USB memory.

[0120] The network IF 1080 receives data from other devices via the network N and sends it to the arithmetic device 1030, and also transmits data generated by the arithmetic device 1030 to other devices via the network N.

[0121] The arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output IF 1060 and the input IF 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or the secondary storage device 1050 onto the primary storage device 1040 and executes the loaded program.

[0122] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment or the modification, the arithmetic device 1030 of the computer 1000 executes a program (e.g., an information processing program) loaded onto the primary storage device 1040, thereby realizing a function similar to that of the control unit 130. That is, the arithmetic device 1030 cooperates with the program (e.g., an information processing program) loaded onto the primary storage device 1040 to realize the processing by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment or the modification.

[0123] [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 forms described in the Disclosure of the Invention section.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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]

[0126] SYS Information Processing System 10 Client Device 20 User device 100 Information processing device 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Gift Card Information Database 122 Content Database 123 User Information Database 130 Control section 131 Management Department 132 Enabling Department 133 Provision Department 134 Balance Processing Unit

Claims

1. a management unit that manages information on content to be used by a target person who is a service user of an electronic payment service and who is a potential acquirer of an electronic gift card that can be used in the electronic payment service, in association with information on the gift card before it is activated; a validation unit that validates the gift card so that the gift card can be used when the target person's usage of the content satisfies a preset condition for acquiring the gift card; a balance processing unit that grants a reward to the target person equivalent to the amount associated with the activated gift card; 13. An information processing device comprising:

2. The management unit Manage video content to be viewed by the target person as the content; The validation unit is Validating the gift card associated with the video content viewed by the target person if the viewing time of the video content by the target person satisfies the acquisition condition.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,

3. The validation unit is When the usage manner of the content by the target person participating in a campaign implemented by an orderer of an electronic gift card that can be used in the electronic payment service satisfies the acquisition condition, the gift card is validated.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,

4. The content is video content related to a campaign implemented by the client.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

5. The content includes: The code information printed on the printed matter is read, so that the subject can use the device. The validation unit is When the usage manner of the content corresponding to the code information by the target person satisfies the acquisition condition, the gift card is activated.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,

6. 1. A computer-implemented information processing method, comprising: a management process for managing information on content to be used by a service user of an electronic payment service who is a potential recipient of an electronic gift card that can be used in the electronic payment service, in association with information on the gift card before it is activated; an activation step of activating the gift card so that the gift card can be used when the target person's usage of the content satisfies a preset condition for acquiring the gift card; a balance processing step of granting a reward to the recipient equivalent to the amount associated with the activated gift card; 13. An information processing method comprising:

7. On the computer, a management procedure for managing information on content to be used by a service user of an electronic payment service who is a potential recipient of an electronic gift card that can be used in the electronic payment service, in association with information on the gift card before it is activated; an activation step of activating the gift card so that the gift card can be used when the target person's usage of the content satisfies a preset condition for acquiring the gift card; a balance processing step of granting a reward to the recipient in an amount corresponding to the activated gift card; An information processing program characterized by causing the program to execute the above steps.

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