Management system, management method, and management program

Abstract

To provide a management system, a management method, and a management program capable of easily storing a log of communication between a plurality of users.SOLUTION: A server device 20 includes a login processing unit 210 that manages communication performed between a plurality of users using a plurality of user terminals that are communicatively connected and determines the start and end timings of the communication based on the number of users participating in the communication, and a board information update unit 212 that stores action information regarding user operations that occur between the start and end of the communication in association with identification information of the communication.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technique for managing communication executed among a plurality of users by using a plurality of user terminals communicably connected to each other.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, techniques have been proposed for selecting a user from a member list of a pre-registered group and performing communication with the selected user in a virtual space (for example, see Patent Documents 1 to 3).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the communication, a board (for example, an online whiteboard), which is a virtual two-dimensional space that can be shared by a plurality of users, may be used, and each user may arrange content or add an annotation on the board. In a service that enables the use of the board, the board exists on the network, and as long as a user logs in, the user can immediately communicate with other users. However, since there is no clear operation regarding the start and end of communication, in order to store logs (conversation time, participants, minutes of meeting, shared files, etc.) in units of communication, manual work of the user is required, which is very time-consuming.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a management system, a management method, and a management program that can easily store communication logs among a plurality of users.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A management system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a management system that manages communication executed among a plurality of users using a plurality of user terminals communicably connected, and includes a specifying processing unit and a storage processing unit. The specifying processing unit specifies the start timing and the end timing of the communication based on the number of users participating in the communication. The storage processing unit stores action information regarding user operations that occur from the start to the end of the communication in association with the identification information of the communication.

[0007] A management method according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a method for managing communication executed among a plurality of users using a plurality of user terminals communicably connected. The management method includes specifying the start timing and the end timing of the communication based on the number of users participating in the communication, and storing action information regarding user operations that occur from the start to the end of the communication in association with the identification information of the communication, which is executed by one or more processors.

[0008] A management program according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a program for managing communication executed among a plurality of users using a plurality of user terminals communicably connected, and includes specifying the start timing and the end timing of the communication based on the number of users participating in the communication, and storing action information regarding user operations that occur from the start to the end of the communication in association with the identification information of the communication, which is a program for causing one or more processors to execute.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a management system, a management method, and a management program capable of easily storing communication logs among a plurality of users.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure. Note that the following embodiments are examples that embody the present disclosure and do not limit the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0012] Generally, when performing telework, communication is often achieved by using services such as Web conferencing applications and virtual offices. However, in order to start a Web conference, the user needed to make a reservation for the conference and check the status of the conference partner. On the other hand, in a virtual office, the user can easily talk to other users. However, in a virtual office, a large two-dimensional map is always displayed, occupying the screen. Also, in a virtual office, since voice is always transmitted and received, the call load and server cost increase. Therefore, there was a problem that the virtual office may reduce the efficiency of the user's normal work by outputting voice that is not related to the user or increasing the load on a terminal device such as a PC (Personal Computer) associated with receiving and rendering data by screen sharing.

[0013] Also, in the communication, a board (e.g., an online whiteboard), which is a virtual two-dimensional space sharable by multiple users, may be used, and each user may arrange content or add annotations on the board. In the service that can use the board, the board exists on the network, and as long as the user logs in, the user can communicate with other users immediately. However, since there is no clear operation regarding the start and end of the communication, there is a problem that it is necessary for the user to manually operate to store logs (conversation time, participants, minutes of meeting, shared files, etc.) in units of communication, which is very time-consuming.

[0014] Therefore, in the following embodiments, an example of a method for appropriately displaying information regarding a file even when a user who can use a plurality of services performs an operation on a file stored in one service, and a method for appropriately determining the start and end of communication and automatically storing the history information of the communication will be described.

[0015] [1. First Embodiment] [1.1 Overall Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a system 1 according to this embodiment. The system 1 is configured by connecting a terminal device 10 and a server device 20 via a network NW. The network NW is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network), but any network may be used as long as the terminal device 10 and the server device 20 can communicate with each other.

[0016] The terminal device 10 is an information processing device used for using services provided by the server device 20. The terminal device 10 may be a general information processing device 10a such as a PC or a tablet, or may be a display device 10b suitable for displaying content (digital signage). As long as it is a general information processing device, it may be configured by any device. Also, a plurality of terminal devices 10 may be connected to the network NW. The system 1 is an example of the management system of the present disclosure. The terminal device 10 is an example of the user terminal of the present disclosure.

[0017] The server device 20 provides a service (collaboration platform service) that realizes collaboration between users. The server device 20 is an information processing device that provides a service, and may be composed of a single device, or may be composed of a plurality of devices in order to distribute the data and processing to be stored. In the following description, the service provided by the server device 20 is simply described as "service". As a service, the server device 20 provides a function of realizing a voice call between users by transmitting and receiving voices between terminal devices used by users, and a function of realizing screen sharing between users. In the present embodiment, it is possible to communicate between users who perform communication such as a voice call, and the place where communication is possible is described as a space. That is, for example, a user can hold a meeting by using a space. In the space, the user can use various communications such as a voice call by voice, a collaborative work using handwritten characters or content using a board, and a chat function by characters.

[0018] The server device 20 is capable of generating (providing) a plurality of spaces, and realizes communication between users in each space. Specifically, the server device 20 manages communication executed among a plurality of users by using a plurality of terminal devices 10 (user terminals) that are communicably connected. Further, the server device 20 provides, as a service, a communication tool that enables information to be shared among a plurality of users. The communication tool may be, for example, a chat, a bulletin board, or the like. In the present embodiment, the server device 20 will be described as providing, as a communication tool, a board that is a virtual two-dimensional space in which content can be arranged. On the board, for example, a website can be arranged as content. Further, annotations such as handwritten (written with a pen) comments may be added as content to the board. The board is managed by the server device 20 and is shared online (cloud shared) among a plurality of users. Note that the management system of the present disclosure may be configured by the server device 20 alone.

[0019] [1.2 Functional Configuration] [1.2.1 Terminal Device] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the terminal device 10. The terminal device 10 includes, for example, a control unit 100, a voice input unit 120, a voice output unit 130, a display unit 140, an operation unit 150, a storage unit 160, and a communication unit 190.

[0020] The control unit 100 controls the entire terminal device 10. The control unit 100 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 160. The control unit 100 may be configured by, for example, one or more arithmetic devices (CPUs (Central Processing Units)) or the like. Further, the control unit 100 may be configured as a SoC (System on a Chip) having a plurality of functions among the functions described below.

[0021] By executing the program stored in the storage unit 160, the control unit 100 functions as a voice call processing unit 102, a screen synchronization unit 104, a status synchronization unit 106, and a login processing unit 108.

[0022] The voice call processing unit 102 executes the processing of input and output of voice related to a voice call. For example, it converts the voice input via the voice input unit 120 into digital data and transmits it to the server device 20, or outputs the voice data received from the server device 20 via the voice output unit 130.

[0023] The screen synchronization unit 104 executes the processing (screen sharing) of synchronizing the screens displayed on the terminal device 10 used by the users in the space. In the following description, when a board or a file is displayed by one user in the space and thus viewed by other users in the space, it is described as "shared".

[0024] For example, when an operation to display a board is performed by a user in the space, the screen synchronization unit 104 causes the display unit 140 to display the board and transmits the information of the displayed board to the server device 20. Also, when an operation on the board is performed by the user, the operation is reflected on the board and the information indicating the content of the operation is transmitted to the server device 20. The operations performed on the board are, for example, operations to add, delete, and edit web pages and annotations.

[0025] On the one hand, when the screen synchronization unit 104 receives the information of the board displayed by other users in the space from the server device 20, it causes the board to be displayed on the display unit 140 based on the information. For example, the screen synchronization unit 104 acquires the board content information of the board displayed by other users in the space, and displays the board based on the content stored in the board content information. Note that the board content information is the information of the content such as a web page and an annotation added to the board. In addition, when the screen synchronization unit 104 receives the information of the operation performed by other users from the server device 20, it reflects the operation performed by other users on the board. Thereby, when the board is displayed or the content of the board is edited by other users in the space, the screen synchronization unit 104 can cause the board to be displayed on the display unit 140 or reflect the edited content on the board.

[0026] The status synchronization unit 106 synchronizes the status displayed on the user icons displayed in the toolbar described later among users. For example, the status synchronization unit 106 transmits the status information of the user using the terminal device 10 to the server device 20. In addition, when the status synchronization unit 106 receives the status information of other users from the server device 20, it updates the status displayed on the user icon based on the information.

[0027] The login processing unit 108 executes the processing related to the login to the service. For example, the login processing unit 108 displays on the display unit 140 a screen for inputting the information necessary for login, and transmits the input information to the server device 20. When the login is permitted by the server device 20, the login processing unit 108 sets the user (the user using the terminal device 10) who has input the information necessary for login to the logged-in state of the service.

[0028] The voice input unit 120 collects the voice uttered by the user and converts it into an analog electrical signal, thereby inputting the user's voice to the terminal device 10. The voice input unit 120 is constituted by, for example, a microphone.

[0029] The voice output unit 130 outputs voice based on voice data. The voice output unit 130 is constituted by, for example, a speaker.

[0030] The display unit 140 displays various kinds of information. The display unit 140 may be constituted by a display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display, a micro LED (Light Emitting Diode) display, etc.

[0031] The operation unit 150 receives an operation instruction from a user who uses the terminal device 10. The operation unit 150 may be constituted by an input device such as a keyboard or a touch sensor, or may be constituted as an interface connectable to an input device. The method of detecting an input by contact (touch) in the touch sensor may be a general detection method such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, a capacitance method, etc. Note that the terminal device 10 may be equipped with a touch panel in which the display unit 140 and the operation unit 150 are integrally formed.

[0032] The storage unit 160 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the terminal device 10. The storage unit 160 may be constituted by a storage device such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), an SSD (Solid State Drive) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) which is a semiconductor memory.

[0033] The communication unit 190 communicates with an external device such as the server device 20 via a network NW such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network). The communication unit 190 may be constituted by a communication device or a communication module such as a NIC (Network Interface Card) used in a wired / wireless LAN.

[0034] [1.2.2 Server Device] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the server device 20. The server device 20 includes, for example, a control unit 200, a storage unit 260, and a communication unit 290.

[0035] The control unit 200 controls the entire server device 20. The control unit 200 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 260. The control unit 200 may be configured by, for example, one or more arithmetic units (CPUs) or the like. Further, the control unit 200 may be configured as a SoC having a plurality of functions among the functions described below.

[0036] By executing the program stored in the storage unit 260, the control unit 200 functions as a voice call processing unit 202, an information transmission unit 204, a screen synchronization unit 206, a status synchronization unit 208, a login processing unit 210, and a board information update unit 212.

[0037] The voice call processing unit 202 executes processing related to the transmission and reception of voice data related to a voice call. For example, when the voice call processing unit 202 receives voice data from the terminal device 10, it identifies the space used by the user using the terminal device 10, and transmits the voice data to the terminal device 10 used by other users using the space.

[0038] The information transmission unit 204 reads the information requested by the terminal device 10 from the storage unit 260 and transmits it to the terminal device 10.

[0039] The screen synchronization unit 206 executes a process of synchronizing the screens displayed by users within the space. For example, the screen synchronization unit 206 receives, from the terminal device 10, information on the displayed board and information indicating the content of operations as user - to - user communication performed on the board. Also, when the screen synchronization unit 206 receives information from the terminal device 10, it identifies the space used by the user who uses the terminal device 10, and transmits the information to the terminal devices 10 used by other users belonging to the space. The screen synchronization unit 206 is an example of the display processing unit of the present disclosure.

[0040] The status synchronization unit 208 executes a process of synchronizing the statuses of users displayed on the toolbar. For example, the status synchronization unit 208 receives user status information from the terminal device 10, identifies the space used by the user who uses the terminal device 10, and transmits the status information to the terminal devices 10 used by other users using the space.

[0041] The login processing unit 210 executes a process related to logging in to the service. For example, the login processing unit 210 receives, from the terminal device 10, information for identifying the user (e.g., user ID) and information corresponding to the user (e.g., password) as information necessary for login. At this time, when the same information as the information necessary for login is stored in the login information storage area 272, which will be described later, as login information, the login processing unit 210 permits the user identified from the information necessary for login to log in to the service.

[0042] In addition, the login processing unit 210 specifies the start timing and end timing of the communication based on the number of users participating in the communication. Specifically, the login processing unit 210 acquires the number of users participating on the board, and based on the acquired number, specifies the start timing and end timing of the communication. For example, the login processing unit 210 specifies the point in time when the number of users permitted to log in to the service becomes more than one person as the start timing of the communication, and specifies the point in time when the number of users permitted to log in to the service becomes one person or less as the end timing of the communication. The login processing unit 210 is an example of the specific processing unit of the present disclosure.

[0043] The board information update unit 212 updates the board information described later according to the usage status of the board. For example, the board information update unit 212 acquires the information of the board displayed on the terminal device 10 and the information of the user logged in to the service via the terminal device 10, and stores the user ID of the user who is displaying the board in the board information of the displayed board. Also, for example, the board information update unit 212 detects an editing operation in which a user adds or deletes a web page or an annotation to the board. When the board information update unit 212 detects an editing operation, it stores the information of the web page or annotation added to the board for which the editing operation has been performed as board content information in the board information corresponding to the board. Further, the board information update unit 212 updates the thumbnail image included in the board information based on the board content information. Also, the board information update unit 212 stores the date and time when the board content information was updated in the board information.

[0044] In addition, the board information update unit 212 associates and stores the event information that occurred from the start to the end of the communication with the identification information of the communication. Specifically, the board information update unit 212 starts acquiring action information regarding user operations on the board at the time point (start timing) when the number of users logged in to the service becomes multiple. The user operations include at least any one of an operation in which a user arranges content on the board, an operation in which a user adds an annotation on the board, an operation in which a user shares a screen, an operation in which a user shares a Web URL, an operation in which a user logs in to a communication service, and an operation in which a user logs off from a communication service. Here, the board information update unit 212 acquires board content information as the action information.

[0045] When the board information update unit 212 starts acquiring the board content information, at the time point (end timing) when the number of users becomes one or less, for example, when the communication ends, it ends the acquisition of the board content information, and associates and stores the board content information acquired from the start to the end, the identification information of the communication (for example, the board name), and the user ID with each other (see FIGS. 7 and 8). The board information update unit 212 is an example of the storage processing unit of the present disclosure. According to the above configuration, it is not necessary for the user to perform an operation to start or end the storage of the action information, and the storage process of the action information can be automatically started and ended according to the participation (login) status of the user in the communication (board). Therefore, it is possible to easily store the communication logs among multiple users.

[0046] The storage unit 260 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the server device 20. The storage unit 260 may be configured by a storage device such as a ROM, a RAM, an SSD, or an HDD, for example.

[0047] The memory unit 260 secures, as memory areas, a user information memory area 262, a group information memory area 264, a space information memory area 266, a board information memory area 268, a board history information memory area 270, and a login information memory area 272.

[0048] The user information memory area 262 stores user information as information of a user who uses the functions provided by the server device 20. As shown in FIG. 4, the user information includes, for example, a user ID (e.g., "U001") for identifying the user, a user name (e.g., "A"), a group ID (e.g., "G001, G002, G003") for identifying the group to which the user belongs, an icon image of the user, the status of the user (e.g., "on the phone"), a space ID (e.g., "T001") for identifying the space to which the user belongs, and information (e.g., "No") indicating whether the user is a user associated with a specific device.

[0049] Here, a group is an aggregation composed of a plurality of users. The group is appropriately set by the users of the service. The group may be set based on a department, a team, etc., or may be set based on members (collaboration group) who perform collaboration. One user may belong to a plurality of groups. Also, the status is information indicating the state of the user, and for example, information indicating any of available for call, away, working, in a meeting, on the phone (in a state of using any space), and logged out is stored. Also, the user may be associated with a specific device, and for a user associated with a specific device, "Yes" is stored as information of the specific device in the user information. The specific device may be a PC or a display device.

[0050] The group information memory area 264 stores group information as information regarding the group. As shown in FIG. 5, the group information includes a group ID (e.g., "G001") for identifying the group and a group name (e.g., "SO Team").

[0051] The space information storage area 266 stores space information as information regarding the space. As shown in FIG. 6, the space information includes a space ID (e.g., "T001") for identifying the space, a space name of the space (e.g., "01 MTG"), a group ID associated with the space (e.g., "G001"), a user ID for identifying the users using the space (e.g., "U001, U002"), and a schedule indicating the date and time when the space is used (e.g., "January 20, 2023, 13:00 to 15:00").

[0052] Among the space information, the space ID, space name, group ID, and user ID are referred to as space basic information. The space basic information is stored for all spaces. On the other hand, among the space information, the schedule is referred to as space additional information. The space additional information is information that is additionally stored as information of the space when the space is registered in advance.

[0053] In the present embodiment, a space registered in advance is referred to as a pre-registered space, and a space that is not pre-registered and is temporarily created is referred to as a temporary space. Note that the temporary space may also be referred to as an ad-hoc space. Also, in the present embodiment, a space used by one or more users is referred to as an active space.

[0054] The board information storage area 268 stores board information as information regarding the board. As shown in FIG. 7, the board information includes a board ID for identifying the board (e.g., "B001"), a board name (e.g., "Fee System Review"), a group ID for identifying the group associated with the board (e.g., "G001"), a user ID for identifying the user who is displaying the board (e.g., "U001, U002"), a thumbnail image of the board, the date and time when the board content information was updated (e.g., "January 18, 2023 18:30"), information on the web pages arranged on the board (e.g., "Web Page 1, URL = https: / / aaaaaa···, Arrangement position = (100,200)-(200-400)"), and information on the annotations added to the board (e.g., "Annotation 1, Type = rectangle···").

[0055] Among the board information, the board ID, board name, group ID, user ID, thumbnail image, and date and time are referred to as board basic information. The board basic information is information about the board itself. Also, the information on the content arranged on the board is included in the board information as board content information. In this embodiment, a board being displayed by one or more users is referred to as an active board.

[0056] The board history information storage area 270 stores board history information, which is the history of communication in the used space. The board history information includes, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, a history ID (e.g., "H001") for identifying the board history information, a board ID (e.g., "B001") for identifying the used board, a group ID (e.g., "G001") associated with the board, the date and time when the board was used (e.g., "January 18, 2023 18:30"), a board name (e.g., "Fee System Review"), and a thumbnail image of the board. The board name is an example of communication identification information. The board name may be, for example, a meeting name, a meeting ID, etc. Note that the date and time may store the time or period when the communication was performed. For example, the start time and end time of using the board may be stored together. Also, the board history information may store the user ID of the user who displayed the board or the user ID of the user who used the space. In FIGS. 7 and 8, the board ID may be the storage destination (path) of the board.

[0057] The login information storage area 272 stores information referred to at the time of login. As shown in FIG. 9, the login information includes, for example, a user ID (e.g., "U001") for identifying the user and a password (e.g., "abc123") which is information corresponding to the user.

[0058] The communication unit 290 communicates with external devices such as the terminal device 10 via a network NW such as a LAN or a WAN. The communication unit 290 may be configured by, for example, a communication device or a communication module such as a NIC used in a wired / wireless LAN.

[0059] [1.3 Process Flow] The flow of processes executed by the terminal device 10 and the server device 20 will be described. The processes shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 are executed by the control unit 100 of the terminal device 10, and the process shown in FIG. 13A is executed by the control unit 200 of the server device 20. Note that user information, group information, space information, board information, board history information, and login information are appropriately stored in advance as needed.

[0060] [1.3.1 Terminal Device] FIGS. 10 and 11 are flowcharts showing the main process flow executed by the terminal device 10. After logging in to the service through the process of the login processing unit 108, the control unit 100 of the terminal device 10 executes the processes shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0061] In the following description, a user who uses the terminal device 10 and has logged in to the service is referred to as a logged-in user. Also, in the following description, when the terminal device 10 makes a predetermined request to the service provided by the server device 20, it is described as making a request to the service. In this case, the terminal device 10 communicates with the server device 20 that provides the service or the endpoint indicated by the server device 20, and detailed description of the process is omitted. For example, the process of the terminal device 10 acquiring information from the service is realized by the terminal device 10 requesting information from the server device 20 or a predetermined endpoint and receiving the information from the request destination.

[0062] First, the control unit 100 acquires from the service the user information of the logged-in user, the user information of users belonging to the same group as the group to which the logged-in user belongs, and the group information of the group to which the logged-in user belongs (step S1000).

[0063] Next, the control unit 100 selects one of the groups to which the logged-in user belongs as the display group (step S1002).

[0064] Subsequently, the control unit 100 displays the toolbar on the display unit 140 (step S1004). Here, the control unit 100 secures an area for displaying the toolbar and fills the area with a predetermined color to secure an area including the buttons included in the toolbar. For example, when the control unit 100 displays the toolbar in a vertically long shape, it displays the width of the toolbar with a width of any number of pixels from 50 pixels to 200 pixels (more preferably, from 50 pixels to 100 pixels). Note that the control unit 100 may display the width of the toolbar with the number of pixels corresponding to 3 to 5% of the number of horizontal pixels that can be displayed on the display unit 140. Thereby, the control unit 100 can be displayed in a form that does not occupy most of the display area of the display unit 140.

[0065] Subsequently, the control unit 100 displays, on the toolbar, icons of the logged-in user and other users belonging to the display group, and buttons indicating functions used by the logged-in user. As buttons to be displayed on the toolbar, the control unit 100 displays a call button (first button), a history button (second button), a space selection button (fourth button), and a board selection button (fifth button). The processing when each button is selected will be described later.

[0066] The button may be displayed as a button with a character indicating a function or as an icon. In the following description, the control unit 100 displays, on the toolbar, in addition to the user's icon, icons (call icon, history icon, space selection icon, board selection icon) as buttons (step S1006).

[0067] Subsequently, when the logged-in user is a user associated with a specific device, the control unit 100 displays an active icon on the toolbar (step S1008; Yes → step S1010). The active icon is an icon corresponding to the active button (third button).

[0068] Next, the control unit 100 displays the status of the user on the user's icon (step S1012). The control unit 100 may display the status using, for example, characters or icons. Note that the control unit 100 may also display the status by changing the frame line of the user's icon according to the status.

[0069] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether the user's icon has been selected (step S1014). The control unit 100 determines whether the status of the user corresponding to the selected icon is "on a call" (step S1014; Yes → step S1016). When the status of the user is "on a call", the control unit 100 acquires the space information of the space used by the user from the service and displays the space name (step S1016; Yes → step S1018). On the other hand, when the status of the user is not "on a call", the control unit 100 toggles the check (selection state) of the user (step S1016; No → step S1020).

[0070] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether the call icon has been selected (step S1022). When the call icon has been selected, the control unit 100 requests the service to create a temporary space used by the logged-in user and the user being checked and to start using the temporary space (step S1022; Yes → step S1024). For example, as a request to create a temporary space, the control unit 100 transmits the user information of the logged-in user who requested the creation of the temporary space, the user information of the user being selected in the toolbar, and the display group information to the service.

[0071] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the history icon has been selected (step S1026). When the history icon is selected, the control unit 100 displays the communication history of the users belonging to the display group. In this embodiment, as an example of the communication history of the users, the history of the board as an example of the communication method used by the users will be described as being displayed. Therefore, the control unit 100 acquires the board history information of the board associated with the display group from the service and displays the acquired board history information (step S1026; Yes → step S1028). Note that the control unit 100 displays the board history information so that it can be selected.

[0072] Note that when displaying the board history information, the control unit 100 may display the board history information whose date and time are within a predetermined period (for example, on the current day, within one week, within one month, etc.). Thereby, the control unit 100 can display the information of the boards used (shared) by the users belonging to the same group (display group) as the logged-in user within a predetermined period. Further, the control unit 100 may display the board history information in the order of proximity to the current date and time based on the date and time. Thereby, the control unit 100 can preferentially display the information of the boards most recently used by the users.

[0073] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the active icon has been selected (step S1030). When the active icon is selected, the control unit 100 acquires the space basic information of the active space associated with the display group and the board basic information of the active board associated with the display group from the service (step S1030; Yes → step S1032).

[0074] Furthermore, the control unit 100 displays the list of the space information of the active space (the first list) and the list of the board basic information of the active board (the second list) side by side (step S1034).

[0075] For example, the control unit 100 displays, as items in the list of space information of the active space, the space name and the icons of the users who use the space. Thereby, the control unit 100 can display the icons of the users who use the space grouped together with the space name. Note that the control unit 100 may display, for each item, a button for starting the use of the space corresponding to the item.

[0076] Also, for example, the control unit 100 displays, as items in the list of board basic information of the active board, the board name, the thumbnail image of the board, and the icons of the users who are displaying the board. Note that the control unit 100 may display, for each item, a button for instructing the display of the board corresponding to the item.

[0077] Also, when an operation to start using one active space is performed, the control unit 100 requests the service to start using the active space (step S1036).

[0078] Subsequently, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the space selection icon has been selected (step S1038). When the space selection icon has been selected, the control unit 100 acquires the space information of the spaces associated with the group to which the logged-in user belongs from the service and displays the space names in a list (step S1038; Yes → step S1040). Thereby, the control unit 100 displays the spaces provided by the service so that they can be selected. Also, when one space name is selected from the space names displayed in the list, the control unit 100 requests the service to start using the space corresponding to the selected space name (step S1042). Thereby, the logged-in user can use the selected space.

[0079] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether a board icon has been selected (step S1044). If the board icon has been selected, the control unit 100 acquires the board basic information of the board associated with the display group from the service and displays the acquired board basic information (step S1044; Yes → step S1046). Note that, similar to step S1028, the control unit 100 may display the board basic information whose date and time is within a predetermined period (for example, the current day, within one week, within one month, etc.), or may display the board basic information in the order of proximity to the current date and time based on the date and time.

[0080] Next, when an operation to change the display group is performed, the control unit 100 changes the display group (step S1050; Yes → step S1052). At this time, the control unit 100 displays the icons of the logged-in user and other users belonging to the changed display group on the toolbar.

[0081] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether the use of the logged-in user's space has started (step S1054). If the use of the space has started, the control unit 100 executes voice call processing (step S1054; Yes → step S1056).

[0082] The flow of the voice call processing executed by the control unit 100 after the logged-in user starts using the space will be described with reference to FIG. 12. First, the control unit 100 stores information indicating the display state of the display unit 140 at the start of space use (for example, the position and display content of the window and board) in the storage unit 160 (step S1100). Also, the voice call processing unit 102 starts processing related to the voice call (step S1102). At this time, the control unit 100 acquires the user information of the users in the space used by the logged-in user from the service. Also, the control unit 100 displays only the icons of the users in the space as the user icons on the toolbar, and further displays a space use end button for instructing the end of space use (step S1104).

[0083] Next, the screen synchronization unit 104 synchronizes the screens displayed on the terminal device 10 used by the user in the space (step S1106).

[0084] Next, when the control unit 100 receives an operation by the logged-in user to invite another user to the space used by the logged-in user, the control unit 100 transmits invitation information to the service (step S1108; Yes → step S1110). The invitation information includes, for example, the user information of the logged-in user who invited the user to the space, the space information of the space being used, and the user information of other users invited to the space.

[0085] Next, when the control unit 100 receives information indicating that another user will use the space used by the logged-in user, the control unit 100 adds the icon of the other user to the toolbar (step S1112; Yes → step S1114). On the other hand, when the control unit 100 receives information indicating that another user will not use the space used by the logged-in user, the control unit 100 displays a message indicating non-use on the display unit 140 (step S1116; Yes → step S1118).

[0086] Also, the control unit 100 acquires the space information of the space used by the logged-in user and updates the user icons (the icons of the users using the space) displayed on the toolbar (step S1120). Thereby, the control unit 100 deletes the icon of the user who has ended using the space from the toolbar, or adds the icon of the user who has started using the space to the toolbar by the process of step S1068 in FIG. 11 described later.

[0087] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether the space usage end icon has been selected (step S1122). If the space usage end icon has not been selected, the control unit 100 returns to step S1106 (step S1122; No → step S1106).

[0088] On the one hand, when the space usage end icon is selected, the control unit 100 requests the service to end the usage of the space used by the logged-in user (step S1122; Yes → step S1124). Also, the voice call processing unit 102 ends the processing related to the voice call (step S1126). The control unit 100 returns the display state of the display unit 140 to the state before the start of the space usage based on the information stored in step S1100 (step S1128). Also, the control unit 100 displays the icons of the logged-in user and other users belonging to the changed display group on the toolbar (step S1130). Furthermore, the control unit 100 makes the space usage end icon invisible from the toolbar (step S1132).

[0089] Returning to FIG. 11, when the control unit 100 determines in step S1054 that the usage of the space has not started, it determines whether an operation to display a board (for example, an operation to select one piece of information from the board basic information or the board history information) has been performed (step S1058). If the operation to display the board has not been performed, the control unit 100 returns to step S1014 in FIG. 10 (step S1058; No → step S1014).

[0090] On the other hand, when an operation to display a board is performed, the control unit 100 acquires the board content information of the board to be displayed from the server device 20 and displays the board based on the board content information (step S1060). The control unit 100 may display the board as, for example, an independent window separately from the toolbar. Thereby, the control unit 100 may make the board movable, change the display range by making the window resizable, or display the board scrollably.

[0091] Subsequently, when the user who is displaying the board is using some space, the control unit 100 determines whether the board is in a shared state in that space (step S1062). If the board is shared in the space, the control unit 100 enables the call icon (step S1062; Yes → step S1064). Thereby, the control unit 100 makes the call icon selectable even when no user is checked in the user icon. Further, when the call icon is selected, the control unit 100 requests the service to use the space where the board is shared (step S1066; Yes → step S1068).

[0092] After starting to use the space, the control unit 100 executes the process of step S1056. On the other hand, when the board is not shared in the space (step S1062; No), or when the call icon is not selected (step S1066; No), the control unit 100 determines whether an operation to close the board has been performed (step S1070). If no operation to close the board has been performed, the control unit 100 returns to step S1062 (step S1070; No → step S1062).

[0093] Subsequently, when the control unit 100 receives invitation information from the server device 20, it displays a message indicating that the user has been invited to the space on the display unit 140 (step S1072; Yes → step S1074).

[0094] When an operation to use the invited space is performed, the control unit 100 transmits information indicating that the space is to be used to the service (step S1076; Yes → step S1078), and further requests to start using the space (step S1080). On the other hand, when no operation to use the invited space is performed, the control unit 100 transmits information indicating that the space is not to be used to the service (step S1076; No → step S1082).

[0095] Also, when an end operation (such as an operation to log out from the service or an operation to end the use of the terminal device 10) is performed, the control unit 100 ends the processes shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 (step S1084; Yes). On the other hand, when the end operation is not performed, the control unit 100 returns to step S1014 in FIG. 10 (step S1084; No → step S1014).

[0096] Note that when the communication between users ends, the communication state may be saved. For example, when the space is ended, the state of the board being used (contents displayed on the board, objects arranged on the board, etc.) may be saved. Also, in addition to the board, the communication method being used (e.g., chat, etc.) may be saved when the space is ended.

[0097] Also, when saving the state of the board, it may be automatically saved not only when the space ends but also when, for example, the use of the board ends. That is, the saving of the state of the board may be performed by the system as appropriate, not only based on an instruction from the user.

[0098] [1.3.2 Server Device] FIG. 13A is a flowchart showing the main process flow executed by the server device 20. First, when an operation to pre-register a space is performed by the user, the control unit 200 stores space information including space basic information and space additional information (step S1200; Yes → step S1202). Thereby, the control unit 200 can provide a pre-registered space to the user.

[0099] Next, the control unit 200 determines whether a request to create a temporary space has been received from the terminal device 10 (step S1204). If the control unit 200 determines that a request to create a temporary space has been received, it stores space information including, as basic space information, information on the user who requested the creation of the temporary space, the user selected in the toolbar displayed on the terminal device 10 used by the user, and the display group (step S1204; Yes → step S1206). Note that the control unit 200 may determine the space name based on a predetermined naming method. Thereby, the control unit 200 can provide a temporary space for the user who requested the creation of the temporary space and the user selected by the user to use.

[0100] Next, when the control unit 200 receives a request to use a space from the terminal device 10, it causes the login user of the terminal device 10 to start using the space (step S1208; Yes → step S1210). For example, the control unit 200 acquires the user information of the login user of the terminal device 10 that requested the use of the space, and stores the space ID of the space from the user information. Further, the control unit 200 transmits information indicating that the login user has started using the space to the terminal device 10 that requested the use of the space. In addition, the voice call processing unit 202 starts processing related to the voice call of the user who has started using the space (step S1212). Note that after the process of step S1206, the control unit 200 causes the user who uses the temporary space to execute the processes of step S1210 and step S1212, thereby starting the use of the temporary space by the user.

[0101] Subsequently, when the control unit 200 is requested to end the use of the space from the terminal device 10, it causes the logged-in user of the terminal device 10 to end the use of the space (step S1214; Yes → step S1216). For example, the control unit 200 acquires the user information of the logged-in user of the terminal device 10 that requested the end of the use of the space, and deletes the space ID of the space from the user information. Further, the control unit 200 transmits information indicating that the logged-in user has ended the use of the space to the terminal device 10 that requested the end of the use of the space. Also, the voice call processing unit 202 ends the processing related to the voice call of the user who has ended the use of the space (step S1218).

[0102] Subsequently, when the control unit 200 receives invitation information from the terminal device 10, it transmits the invitation information to the terminal device 10 used by the user invited to the space (step S1220; Yes → step S1222). When the control unit 200 receives information indicating that the terminal device 10 will use the space, it transmits information indicating that the terminal device 10 will use the space to the terminal device 10 used by the user invited to the space (step S1224; Yes → step S1226). Also, when the control unit 200 receives information indicating that the terminal device 10 will not use the space, it transmits information indicating that the terminal device 10 will not use the space to the terminal device 10 used by the user invited to the space (step S1228; Yes → step S1230).

[0103] Subsequently, the control unit 200 determines whether the board has been displayed or edited (step S1232). For example, when the board information is updated by the board information update unit 212, the control unit 200 can detect that the board has been displayed or edited. When the control unit 200 determines that the board has been displayed, it stores board history information based on the board information corresponding to the board (step S1232; Yes → step S1234).

[0104] Also, when information is requested from the terminal device 10, the information transmission unit 204 transmits the requested information to the terminal device 10 (step S1236; Yes → step S1238).

[0105] Furthermore, the control unit 200 deletes the space information of the pre-registered space where the set schedule has passed and the space information of the temporary space where there is no user (step S1240).

[0106] Subsequently, the control unit 200 determines whether an end operation such as stopping the service of the server device 20 has been performed (step S1242). If the end operation has been performed, the control unit 200 ends the process shown in FIG. 13A (step S1242; Yes). On the other hand, if the end operation has not been performed, the control unit 200 returns to step S1200 (step S1242; No → step S1200).

[0107] [1.3.3 Board Information Storage Process] FIG. 13B is a flowchart showing the flow of the board information storage process executed by the server device 20. Here, the process after the start of space utilization will be described.

[0108] First, in step S11, the control unit 200 displays a board according to the user's operation. For example, when the user performs an operation to start using the board, the control unit 200 displays a predetermined board (registered board or new board).

[0109] Next, in step S12, the control unit 200 acquires the number of participants in the board. Specifically, the control unit 200 acquires the number of users who have logged in to the service and entered the currently displayed board.

[0110] Next, in step S13, the control unit 200 determines whether the number of participants is more than one person. When the number of participants is more than one person (S13; Yes), the control unit 200 transfers the process to step S14. On the other hand, when the number of participants is one person (S13; No), the control unit 200 transfers the process to step S131.

[0111] In step S14, the control unit 200 starts communication (collaboration) by multiple people and starts acquiring a collaboration log (collaboration history). For example, the control unit 200 starts acquiring action information (board content information) regarding user operations on the board, such as an operation where a user places content on the board, an operation where a user adds an annotation on the board, an operation where a user shares a screen, and an operation where a user shares a Web URL. That is, the control unit 200 specifies the point in time when the number of participants becomes more than one person as the start timing of collaboration and starts acquiring the collaboration history.

[0112] Next, in step S15, the control unit 200 determines whether the number of participants is one person or less. When the number of participants is one person or less (S15; Yes), the control unit 200 transfers the process to step S16. On the other hand, when the number of participants is more than one person (S15; No), the control unit 200 transfers the process to step S18.

[0113] In step S16, the control unit 200 ends the collaboration and ends the acquisition of the collaboration history. That is, the control unit 200 specifies the point in time when the number of participants becomes one person or less as the end timing of collaboration and ends the acquisition of the collaboration history.

[0114] Next, in step S17, the control unit 200 stores the collaboration history. Specifically, the control unit 200 stores the action information (board content information) in the board information (see FIG. 7) and the board history information (see FIG. 8). For example, the control unit 200 stores the board content information acquired from the start to the end of the collaboration, the identification information of the communication (e.g., board name), the user ID, and the start time and end time of the collaboration in association with each other.

[0115] Next, in step S18, the control unit 200 determines whether an end operation such as stopping the provision of the service of the server device 20 has been performed. If the end operation has been performed, the control unit 200 ends the process shown in FIG. 13B (S18; Yes). On the other hand, if the end operation has not been performed, the control unit 200 returns to step S13 (S18; No).

[0116] In step S13, if the number of participants is one (S13; No), the control unit 200 executes a process of storing the board information. For example, when one user performs an operation such as displaying a board and adding an annotation, the control unit 200 acquires a log (history) corresponding to the user operation and stores it in the board information (see FIG. 7). After step S13, the control unit 200 transfers the process to step S18.

[0117] As described above, the control unit 200 specifies the start timing and end timing of the communication based on the number of users participating in the communication, and stores the action information (board content information) regarding the user operations that occurred from the start to the end of the communication in association with the identification information of the communication (board ID). Further, the control unit 200 stores the identification information of the communication, the identification information of the users who participated in the communication (user ID), and the action information in association with each other as the history information of the communication.

[0118] [1.4 Operation Example] An operation example of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 to 23. In the description of the operation example, it is assumed that the logged-in user is a user with the user name "A".

[0119] FIG. 14(a) is a display example of the screen W1000 of the terminal device 10 such as a PC. On the screen W1000, a toolbar T1000 is displayed on the desktop. Further, FIG. 14(b) is a display example of the screen W1010 of the terminal device 10 such as a display device for displaying digital signage. On the screen W1010, a toolbar T1010 is displayed on the digital signage. As shown in FIGS. 14(a) and 14(b), due to the narrow width of the toolbar, the area of the screen occupied by the toolbar can be minimized as much as possible.

[0120] FIG. 15(a) is a diagram showing a display example of the toolbar T1100. In the toolbar T1100, an area E1100 for displaying the user's icon is secured. In the area E1100, the icons of the users belonging to the display group are displayed. The user name may be displayed on the icon. Also, the status may be displayed in an identifiable manner. Note that when the user's icon does not fit in the area E1100, the area E1100 may be displayed as a scrollable area. Also, the icon of the logged-in user may be displayed at a specific position such as the upper left of the area E1100, or may be displayed in a distinguishable manner from the icons of other users.

[0121] Furthermore, the toolbar T1100 includes a call icon C1100, a board icon C1102, a history icon C1104, and a space selection icon C1106.

[0122] FIG. 15(b) is a diagram showing a display example of the toolbar T1110 displayed on the terminal device 10 which is a specific device. The toolbar T1110 includes an active icon C1110 in addition to the icons included in the toolbar T1100.

[0123] FIG. 15(c) is a diagram showing a display example of the toolbar T1120 when the icon of the logged-in user (in the following description, the user with the user name "A" is the logged-in user) is selected and when the icon of the user whose status is in a call is selected. When the user selects the icon of the logged-in user, a list L1120 in which the status of 1 can be selected from the statuses selectable by the user is displayed. The user can select a desired status from the list L1120. Also, when the icon of the user whose status is in a call is selected, the space name E1120 of the space used by the user is displayed.

[0124] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a display example of the toolbar displayed when a temporary space is being used. FIG. 16(a) is a diagram showing the toolbar T1200 in the state where the user is selected when the user's icon is selected. In FIG. 16(a), the users with the user names "B" and "C" are selected. At this time, the call icon C1200 is in an enabled state. When the call icon C1200 is selected in this state, a temporary space to which the user names "A", "B", and "C" belong is created.

[0125] When a space is being used, the toolbar T1210 shown in FIG. 16(b) is displayed. In the toolbar T1210, in the area E1210 for displaying the user's icon, the icons of the users using the same space and the button B1210 for giving an instruction to invite other users to the space are displayed. Also, in the toolbar T1210, a button B1212 for switching the availability of voice input and a button B1214 for switching the availability of voice output are displayed. Note that, as shown in FIG. 16(c), on the user's icon C1220, an icon C1222 indicating the availability state of voice input for the user and an icon C1224 indicating the availability state of voice output for the user may be displayed.

[0126] By selecting the board icon C1210 or the history icon C1212, the user can display a screen for selecting a board and display the board selected from the screen. The board displayed by the user is also displayed on the terminal device 10 used by other users who are using the space used by the user through the processing of the screen synchronization unit 104 and the screen synchronization unit 206, and the display content of the board is synchronized. Also, a space usage end icon C1214 is displayed on the toolbar. The space usage end icon C1214 may be displayed instead of the call icon.

[0127] Also, as shown in FIG. 16(d), in the space list L1230, the space used by the logged-in user (「01 Talk」in the example of FIG. 16(d)) is selected.

[0128] Note that as shown in the space list L1230, the space may be displayed under the corresponding group name. For example, as shown in FIG. 16(d), in the space list L1230, the group names (G1230, G1232, G1234) of the groups to which the user belongs are displayed as major items, and the spaces corresponding to the groups may be displayed as minor items under the group names. Note that when the group name is selected by the user, the display group may be switched to the group corresponding to the group name selected by the user. When the display group is switched, the user icon displayed on the toolbar is switched to the icon of the user belonging to the display group.

[0129] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the display of a toolbar when a call is made in the pre-registered space. FIG. 17(a) is a diagram showing a toolbar T1300 in which a list L1300 of spaces is displayed when a space selection icon C1300 is selected. In the list of spaces, the space name can be expanded, and when the space name is expanded, the user name and icon of the user using that space may be displayed. For example, D1310 in FIG. 17(b) indicates that in the space list L1310, the space name "Lounge" is expanded, and the space with the space name "Lounge" is being used by the user with the user name "E" and the user with the user name "F".

[0130] The user can select the space to be used by selecting the space name from the list of spaces. For example, by selecting the space name "02 MTG" (E1310) from the space list L1310, the space with the space name "02 MTG" can be used. At this time, as shown in FIG. 17(c), the icons of the users using the space are displayed on the toolbar T1320. Also, as shown in FIG. 17(d), in the space list L1330, "02 MTG", which is the space used by the user, is selected.

[0131] FIG. 18(a) is an example of the display of a screen W1400 that is displayed when a button for instructing to invite to a space (for example, B1210 in FIG. 16(b)) is selected. The screen W1400 includes an area E1400 for selecting a user, and further includes a button B1400 for instructing to send invitation information to the selected user and a button B1402 for instructing to close the screen W1400. Note that the screen W1400 may include a checkbox C1400 for instructing to select all inviteable users and a checkbox C1402 for instructing to cancel all selection states.

[0132] For example, in Fig. 18(a), when the user with the user name "D" is selected and button B1400 is selected, and the use of the space by the user starts, as shown in Fig. 18(b), an icon C1410 of the user with the user name "D" is added to the toolbar T1410.

[0133] Fig. 19(a) is a diagram showing an example of a screen W1500 displayed on the terminal device 10 that has received the invitation information. On the screen W1500, a message M1500 indicating that the user has been invited to the space is displayed. The message M1500 includes a button B1500 for instructing to use the invited space and a button B1502 for instructing not to use the invited space. The user selects whether to use the space by selecting button B1500 or button B1502. Note that the message M1500 may also include information about the inviting user (for example, the user's icon) and a button (B1504) for instructing whether to enable voice input and voice output respectively at the start of using the space. Fig. 19(b) is a diagram showing an example of a screen W1510 displayed on the terminal device 10 used by the user who invited the space when an instruction indicating not to use the space is given. On the screen W1510, a message M1510 indicating that the inviting user does not use the space is displayed.

[0134] FIG. 20(a) is a diagram showing an example of a screen W1600 that is displayed when a board icon (e.g., B1102 in FIG. 15(a)) is selected. The screen W1600 includes a region E1600 that displays a list of selectable boards, and a region E1602 that displays information about the board selected from the region E1600. As the board information, for example, the board name, the thumbnail image of the board, and the icons of the users (members during collaboration) who are displaying the board are displayed. Also, when the user who is displaying the board is using a space, a button B1600 for instructing the display of the board and the start of using the space may be displayed. By selecting B1600, the user can display the board and use the space in which the board is displayed (shared).

[0135] Note that a button B1602 for instructing the creation of a new board may be displayed on the screen W1600. When the button B1602 is selected, the terminal device 10 displays a screen for inputting a board name on the display unit 140, and transmits the board name, the user information of the logged-in user, and the information of the display group to the service. The server device 20 can create a new board by storing board information including the board name received from the terminal device 10, the group ID of the display group, and the user ID stored in the received user information.

[0136] Also, when one user is displaying a board, the members during collaboration are not displayed, and it is also possible for the user to use the board alone. "Board Name 3" shown in FIG. 20 indicates a board created by one user.

[0137] FIG. 20(b) is a diagram showing an example of a screen W1610 that is displayed when a history icon (e.g., C1104 in FIG. 15(a)) is selected. On the screen W1610, information about the boards used by the users belonging to the display group (e.g., board names and thumbnail images) is displayed. The user can instruct the display of the relevant board by selecting the information of one board. Also, one or more of the board name, thumbnail, date and time of use, and information about the user who used the board (e.g., user name, icon indicating the user, photo, etc.) may be displayed for the board information.

[0138] When an instruction to display a board is given on the screen W1600 or the screen W1610, as shown in FIG. 21(a), a screen W1700 that displays the latest state (the state in which user operations were last performed and action information was stored) of the board B1700 selected by the user is displayed.

[0139] When the screen W1700 is displayed and multiple logged-in users start using the board B1700, board content information corresponding to the user operations is stored. That is, based on the user operations, the board information (see FIG. 7) and the board history information (see FIG. 8) are updated. Note that when there is only one logged-in user at the time of starting to use the board B1700, only the board information may be updated without being updated (registered) as the board history information. Also, when the number of users using the board B1700 becomes multiple later, the acquisition of logs may be started and the board history information may be updated (registered).

[0140] Also, on the screen W1610, information about a plurality of boards is displayed in a list arranged in chronological order. That is, the control unit 200 displays a list of a plurality of thumbnail images corresponding to a plurality of board history information created for each communication in chronological order. Also, the control unit 200 causes the board to be displayed in the last stored display mode (latest state) based on the board history information corresponding to the thumbnail image selected by the user among the plurality of thumbnail images.

[0141] When the board displayed on the terminal device 10 used by the logged-in user is displayed in the space, as shown in FIG. 21(b), even when the user's icon is not selected, the call icon C1710 can be selected. The logged-in user can use the space where the board displayed on the terminal device 10 is displayed by selecting the call icon C1710.

[0142] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a screen W1800 displayed when an active icon (for example, C1110 in FIG. 15(b)) is selected. The screen W1800 includes a region E1800 for displaying the space basic information of the active space and a region E1810 for displaying the board basic information of the active board.

[0143] In the region E1800, for each active space, the space name E1802, the icon E1804 of the user using the space, and a button B1800 for instructing to start using the space are listed and displayed. The user can use the corresponding space by selecting the button E1808.

[0144] In the region E1810, for each active board, the board name E1812, the thumbnail image E1814 of the board, the icon E1816 of the user displaying the board, and a button B1810 for instructing to display the board are listed and displayed. The user can display the corresponding board by selecting the button B1810.

[0145] Note that the screen W1800 may include an area E1820 for displaying the icons of users who have not used any space. By referring to the screen W1800, the user can refer to the active space and the active board, and can easily grasp the actions of the user. Also, the user can start using the space by selecting the button B1800. Therefore, for example, even when using a terminal device 10 that is not suitable for fine operations, such as an electronic whiteboard, there is no need to perform fine operations such as selecting a space from a list of spaces. Also, the active board is displayed by an easy operation of selecting the button B1810 by the user. Furthermore, the user can easily grasp the active space and the active board just by checking the screen W1800.

[0146] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of processes when an active board is displayed and the space in which the active board is shared is used. In the following description, it is assumed that a user who has logged in to the service via the terminal device 10y shares a board in one space.

[0147] The terminal device 10x communicates with the server device 20 and logs in to the service as a user of a specific device (S100). Also, the terminal device 10y communicates with the server device 20 and logs in to the service (S102).

[0148] When the terminal device 10x logs in to the service as a user of a specific device, an active icon is displayed on the toolbar. Here, when the active icon is selected by the user (S104), the terminal device 10x sends a request for the space basic information of the active space and the board basic information of the active board to the service (S106). The terminal device 10x acquires the space basic information and the board basic information from the server device 20 (S108) and displays them (S110).

[0149] When the user operates the terminal device 10x to display a board (S112), the terminal device 10x requests the service for the board content information of the board (S114) and acquires the board content information (S116). The terminal device 10x displays the board based on the acquired board content information (S118). Here, it is assumed that the active board displayed on the terminal device 10x is shared in the space used by the user using the terminal device 10y. In this case, the call icon displayed on the toolbar of the terminal device 10x becomes active.

[0150] Here, when the call icon is selected by the user on the terminal device 10x (S120), the terminal device 10x sends a request for using the space to the service (S122). As a result, the logged-in user of the terminal device 10x starts using the space (S124). At this time, the user ID of the logged-in user of the terminal device 10x is stored in the space information of the space used by the logged-in user of the terminal device 10x.

[0151] The terminal device 10y receives the space information of the space it is using from the server device 20 (S126). As a result, the terminal device 10y can detect that the logged-in user of the terminal device 10x has started using the space in the space used by the logged-in user of the terminal device 10y, and adds the icon of the logged-in user of the terminal device 10x to the toolbar (S128).

[0152] Also, since the logged-in user of the terminal device 10x and the logged-in user of the terminal device 10y use the same space, voice data is transmitted and received between the terminal device 10x and the terminal device 10y via the server device 20 (S130, S132).

[0153] In addition, even outside the above description, as long as there is no contradiction, the order of steps may be changed, some steps may be omitted, or the processing of some steps may be changed. For example, in step S1120 of FIG. 12, the control unit 100 has been described as acquiring space information from the server device 20 and updating the user icon displayed on the toolbar. That is, the terminal device 10 acquires space information from the service and updates the user icon displayed on the toolbar. Regarding this process, the server device 20 may be configured to send a notification to the terminal device 10 used by the user using the space at the timing when the user starts using the space or when the user ends using the space. In this case, the terminal device 10 can add a user icon to the toolbar or delete a user icon from the toolbar by acquiring space information based on the notification received from the server device 20.

[0154] Also, although it has been determined whether to display the active icon based on the information on whether it is a specific device included in the user information, this determination may be made according to the information (device information) of the terminal device 10. For example, when displaying the toolbar, the control unit 100 acquires the device information (e.g., model number, model name, IP address, etc.) of the terminal device 10, and may display the active icon when the acquired information matches the information of a specific device. Regarding whether the terminal device 10 is a specific display device, the service (server device 20) may make a determination based on the device information of the logged-in terminal device 10.

[0155] Also, the width of the toolbar may be settable by the user. Also, the toolbar may be displayed horizontally. When the toolbar is displayed horizontally, the control unit 100 displays the toolbar at a height from 50 dots to 200 dots, and more preferably, at a height from 50 dots to 100 dots.

[0156] Also, the space may be lockable so that it cannot be used by other users. The locked space may be displayed separately from the unlocked spaces in the space list, for example, by displaying a key icon following the space name. Also, the user ID of the user who can use the space may be stored as additional space information, and only the user identified by the user ID may be able to use the space.

[0157] Also, in the above description, it has been described that the board is displayed via the board selection icon, but files such as files stored on the cloud or online, and local files stored in the terminal device 10 may also be displayable. In this case, the screen synchronization unit 104 and the screen synchronization unit 206 cause the users using the same space to share the file by displaying the file among the users.

[0158] Also, in the above description, it has been described that the icon indicating the start of using the space where the board is shared is the call icon, but the icon indicating the use of the space where the board is shared may be different from the call icon.

[0159] Also, the server device 20 has been described as starting the use of the temporary space as it is for the user using the temporary space by executing the processes of step S1206 and step S1210 in FIG. 13A. However, the server device 20 may transmit invitation information to the terminal device 10 used by a user other than the logged-in user among the users using the temporary space. Thereby, a user other than the logged-in user can select whether to use the temporary space.

[0160] In this way, when normal operations are being performed, the terminal device of this embodiment can display a toolbar that shows the status of other users in a form that does not occupy the display area of the screen. Also, the terminal device can enable an easy operation for voice calls with other users. As a result, the user can easily grasp the status of other users and can immediately start a voice call with other users.

[0161] Also, in this embodiment, after the logged-in user starts using a space, communication related to user communication within the space, such as voice calls and screen sharing, is started between the terminal device used by other users using the space and other terminal devices. That is, the terminal device and the server device perform voice call and screen sharing processing only when necessary according to the situation. Thereby, the terminal device and the server device can minimize the communication load and cost.

[0162] Also, when a terminal device (a specific device) not suitable for fine operations, such as an electronic whiteboard, is used, by displaying an active space and an active board, the screen configuration can be made different from that of a general terminal device. Thereby, in this embodiment, when an electronic whiteboard or the like is used, operations with a touch pen can be facilitated. Here, the terminal device determines whether it is a specific device based on user information and device information. Thereby, the terminal device can select an icon to be displayed on the toolbar according to the user information and device information.

[0163] [2. Second Embodiment] The second embodiment is an embodiment in which, in the process described in the first embodiment, when the same web page as the web page arranged on the board is displayed in a window different from the board on the terminal device, the web page is not displayed on the board.

[0164] [2.1 Functional Configuration] When the web page arranged on the board is displayed in a window different from the board, it is assumed that information on the setting indicating whether to display the window overlaid on the board is stored in the storage unit 160 in advance.

[0165] [2.2 Processing flow] In the present embodiment, the control unit 100 executes the process shown in FIG. 24 in step S1060 of FIG. First, the control unit 100 displays the board on which an operation to be displayed has been performed by the user (step S2000). The process of step S2000 is the same as the process of step S1060 of FIG.

[0166] Subsequently, the control unit 100 determines whether or not one of the web pages arranged on the board is being displayed in a window different from the board in the terminal device 10 (step S2002). When one of the web pages arranged on the board is being displayed in a window different from the board, the control unit 100 makes the one web site arranged on the board invisible (step S2002; Yes → step S2004).

[0167] Subsequently, when the setting for displaying the window overlaid on the board is made, the control unit 100 changes the size of the board to a size including the area of the window displaying one web page arranged on the board (step S2006; Yes → step S2008).

[0168] Furthermore, the control unit 100 moves the window displaying one web page arranged on the board to the position where the one web page is arranged as necessary (step S2010). At this time, the control unit 100 may change the size of the window displaying one web page arranged on the board to the same size as the size of the area where the one web page is arranged.

[0169] Further, the control unit 100 moves the window moved in step S2010 in front of the board, and thereby overlays and displays the window on the board (step S2012).

[0170] In addition, when the control unit 100 determines in step S2006 that the setting for overlaying and displaying the window on the board is not set, the processes from step S2008 to step S2012 are omitted. In this case, the window displaying the single web page arranged on the board does not move from the position where the window is displayed.

[0171] [2.3 Operation Example] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an operation example in a case where a setting is made not to overlay and display a window on a board when a web page arranged on the board is displayed in a window different from the board.

[0172] FIG. 25(a) is a diagram showing a display example of a desktop screen W2000 displayed on the terminal device 10. Assume that a web page capable of editing an online document file is displayed on the web browser W2002 in the desktop screen W2000. Here, when invited to a space by another user, a message M2000 indicating that the user has been invited to the space is displayed. The user using the terminal device 10 uses the invited space by selecting a button B2000 for instructing to start using the space.

[0173] FIG. 25(b) is a diagram showing an example of a display of a desktop screen W2010 displayed on the terminal device 10 after a user using the terminal device 10 starts using a space. Here, it is assumed that a board R2010 is shared in the space being used by the user. Also, in the board R2010, it is assumed that the web page displayed on the web browser W2002 in FIG. 25(a) is arranged at the position indicated by the area E2010. In this case, the web page becomes non-displayed in the area E2010. On the other hand, the web browser W2012 is displayed at the same position as the position where it was displayed before the start of using the space. After the board R2010 is displayed, the user can continue to edit an online document file via the web browser W2012.

[0174] Note that when the terminal device 10 makes a web page arranged on the board non-displayed, the board may display that the non-displayed web page is being displayed in another window.

[0175] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of an operation when a setting is made to overlap and display a window on a board when a web page arranged on the board is being displayed in a window different from the board.

[0176] FIG. 26(a) is a diagram showing an example of the display of the desktop screen W2010 displayed on the terminal device 10 after the user using the terminal device 10 starts using the space. In the space where the use has started, if a board is shared and the web page displayed on the web browser W2002 in FIG. 25(a) is arranged on the board, as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 26(a), the size of the board R2100 is changed. Also, if necessary, the position and size of the web browser W2002 in FIG. 25(a) are changed, and as a result, as shown in FIG. 26(a), a web browser W2100 is arranged in front of the board R2100. The user can continue to edit the online document file via the web browser W2100. Also, the user can view the web pages and annotations added to the board R2100 together with the web browser W2100. Note that in the area of the board R2100 hidden by the web browser W2100, websites and annotations may not be drawn.

[0177] Note that, as shown in FIG. 26(b), when the user displays a website on the web browser W2110, the terminal device 10 may arrange the board R2110 behind the web browser W2110. Also, in this case, the terminal device 10 waits in a state where no content is displayed on the board R2110. When the use of the space is started by the user and a board is shared in the space and the web page displayed on the web browser W2110 is arranged on the board, the terminal device 10 expands and displays the board R2110 hidden behind the web browser W2110. By doing so, the user using the terminal device 10 can seamlessly participate in the voice call while referring to the board.

[0178] As shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, since the web page arranged on the board is not displayed, the terminal device 10 can reduce the memory and processing load required to draw the web page arranged on the board. As a result, the terminal device 10 can also reduce the time required for the display of the board.

[0179] Thereby, even when the user is invited to the space when editing files and materials arranged on the board using a web browser before starting to use the space, the terminal device 10 can efficiently display the file and the material. As a result, the user can prevent the web pages for displaying the same file and material from being opened twice, and can also reduce the load on the terminal device 10.

[0180] In the terminal device 10, when the web page arranged on the board is made non-displayed, the server device 20 does not have to transmit information on the web page and annotation arranged in the non-displayed area to the terminal device 10. Thereby, the communication load between the terminal device 10 and the server device 20 can be reduced.

[0181] In the above description, the case where the same web page as the web page arranged on the board is displayed in a window different from the board has been described. However, even when the same file as the file arranged on the board is displayed in a different window, the file arranged on the board may be made non-displayed in the same manner as the above-described processing.

[0182] Thus, according to the present embodiment, even when the same web page as the web page being displayed by the user is arranged on the board, it is possible to prevent the same web page from being displayed twice.

[0183] [3. Third Embodiment] The third embodiment is an embodiment in which, in the process of the first embodiment, as the communication history of the user, information on the history of files used by the user and information on the history of spaces are displayed, and files and boards can be displayed from the history information. This embodiment is a figure in which FIG. 3 of the first embodiment is replaced with FIG. 27. Note that the same functional parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0184] [3.1 Functional Configuration] In this embodiment, the system 1 is configured by using a server device 22 composed of the functional parts shown in FIG. 27 instead of the server device 20. Different from the server device 20, the server device 22 further secures a file history information storage area 274 and a space history information storage area 276 in the storage unit 260.

[0185] The file history information storage area 274 stores file usage history information as information on the history of files used by the user. For example, as shown in FIG. 28, the file usage history information includes a file history ID (e.g., "F001") for identifying the file history information, a storage destination of the file (e.g., "https: / / aaaaaa···"), a title of the file (e.g., "Next-generation office···"), a date and time when the file was used (e.g., "January 18, 2023 18:30"), a user ID of the user who used the file (e.g., "U001"), and a group ID of the group associated with the file (e.g., "G001").

[0186] The storage destination of the file is a character string indicating the location where the file is stored. The storage destination of the file may be a file path or a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) indicating a connection destination for displaying the file.

[0187] The space history information storage area 276 stores space usage history information as information regarding the history of spaces used by the user. The space usage history information includes, for example, as shown in FIG. 29, a space history ID (e.g., "A001") for identifying the space history information, a space ID (e.g., "T001") of the used space, a usage start time of the space (e.g., "January 20, 2023 13:02"), a usage end time of the space (e.g., "January 20, 2023 14:35"), a user ID of the user who used the space (e.g., "U001, U002"), a board ID of the board shared in the space (e.g., "Board 1 = B001, Board 2 = B002"), a thumbnail image of the board, a storage destination of files referred to by the user who used the space during a voice call in the space (e.g., "File 1 = https: / / aaaaaa···, File 2 = https: / / bbbbbb···"), and a group ID of the group associated with the space (e.g., "G001").

[0188] [3.2 Flow of Processing] [3.2.1 Server Device] FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing executed by the server device 20 in parallel with the processing shown in FIG. 13A. First, when a file is used in the terminal device 10, the control unit 200 acquires the storage destination of the used file, the logged-in user of the terminal device 10, and information on the display group, and stores file history information based on the information (step S3000; Yes → step S3002). For example, the control unit 200 may determine that a file has been used when a display operation is performed on the file or an operation to update (store) the file is performed. Further, the control unit 200 may determine whether a file has been used by monitoring the terminal device 10. Further, it may be determined that a file has been used when information indicating that the file has been used is received from the terminal device 10.

[0189] Next, when the use of the space is started by the user, the control unit 200 determines whether the user is the first user to use the space (step S3004; Yes → step S3006). If the user is the first user to use the space, the control unit 200 stores space history information including the ID of the space and the group ID of the group associated with the space (step S3006; Yes → step S3008). Further, the control unit 200 stores the current date and time as the use start date and time in the space history information stored in step S3008 (step S3010). Note that if the user is the second or subsequent user to use the space, steps S3008 and S3010 are omitted.

[0190] Next, the control unit 200 stores the user ID of the user in the space history information corresponding to the space used by the user (step S3012).

[0191] Next, when a board is shared in the space, the control unit 200 stores the board ID of the board in the space history information corresponding to the space (step S3014; Yes → step S3016). Also, when a file is shared in the space, the control unit 200 stores the storage destination of the file in the space history information corresponding to the space (step S3018; Yes → step S3020).

[0192] Next, when the number of users in the space becomes zero, the control unit 200 stores the current date and time as the use end date and time in the space history information corresponding to the space (step S3022; Yes → step S3024). At this time, the control unit 200 may store the thumbnail image of the board shared in the space in the space history information.

[0193] Also, when an end operation is performed, the control unit 200 ends the process shown in FIG. 30 (step S3026; Yes), and when no end operation is performed, returns to step S3000.

[0194] (Step S3026; No → Step S3000).

[0195] [3.2.2 Terminal Device] In this embodiment, when a history icon is selected, as processing (step S1028 in FIG. 10), the control unit 100 executes the processing shown in FIG. 31.

[0196] First, when the control unit 100 displays the file history, it acquires file history information associated with the display group from the server device 20 and displays the file history information (step S3100; Yes → step S3102).

[0197] Subsequently, when the control unit 100 displays the space history, it acquires space history information associated with the display group from the server device 20 and displays the space history information (step S3104; Yes → step S3106).

[0198] When information of a file (for example, title or storage destination) is selected from the displayed file history information or the displayed space history information, the control unit 100 displays the file (step S3108; Yes → step S3110). Also, when information of a board (for example, thumbnail image) is selected from the displayed space history information, the control unit 100 displays the board (step S3112; Yes → step S3114). Note that after the control unit 100 displays the board, it executes the processing from step S1062 in FIG. 11 onward.

[0199] Subsequently, when an operation to switch the displayed information (for example, an operation to switch the display from file history information to space history information) is performed, the control unit 100 returns to step S3100 (step S3116; Yes → step S3100).

[0200] On the one hand, when an operation to switch the displayed information is not performed, the control unit 100 determines whether an operation to end the display of the information has been performed (step S3118). When the control unit 100 determines that an operation to end the display of the information has been performed, it ends the process shown in FIG. 31 (step S3118; Yes). On the other hand, when the control unit 100 determines that an operation to end the display of the information has been performed, it returns to step S3108 (step S3118; No → step S3108).

[0201] Note that when the control unit 100 displays file history information or space history information, it may display the file history information or space history information in ascending order of proximity to the current date and time based on the date and time. Thereby, the control unit 100 can preferentially display information on files and space history information that have been recently used by the user. Further, the control unit 100 may display file history information or space history information whose date and time is within a predetermined period.

[0202] [3.3 Operation Example] FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a display example of a screen displayed on the terminal device 10. FIG. 32(a) is a diagram showing a screen example of a screen W3000 on which file history information is displayed. As shown in FIG. 32(a), for each used file, a title E3000, a user name E3002, and a user icon E3004 are displayed. The user can display the file by performing an operation such as selecting the title of the file. Note that the file history information may display the file format, an icon indicating the storage destination where the file is stored, and date and time information.

[0203] FIG. 32(b) is a diagram showing an example of a screen W3010 on which space history information is displayed. As shown in FIG. 32(b), for each used space, a region E3010 indicating the usage start date and time and the usage end date and time, an icon E3012 of the user using the space, a thumbnail image E3014 of the used board, and information E3016 of the used file are displayed. By looking at the screen W3010, the user can easily grasp the content of the collaboration. Also, the user can display a desired board or a desired file simply by selecting the board or the file from the screen W3010.

[0204] Thus, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to display the space and files used by the user with an easy operation.

[0205] [4. Fourth Embodiment] The fourth embodiment is an embodiment in which, in the first embodiment, the display mode of the toolbar can be changed.

[0206] In the present embodiment, in addition to the processes shown in FIGS. 10 to 12, the control unit 100 executes the process shown in FIG. 33. First, the control unit 100 displays the toolbar in a minimized display form (first display form) (step S4000). The minimized display form is a display form showing only the position of the toolbar. In this case, the control unit 100 displays a toolbar that does not include a selection icon. In this case, for example, the toolbar is preferably displayed with a width of 10 dots to 50 dots.

[0207] When the toolbar is selected, the control unit 100 displays a toolbar in a display form (second display form) including a maximize icon, a minimize icon, and a board selection icon (step S4002; Yes → step S4004). Note that when the logged-in user is a user corresponding to a specific device, the control unit 100 may display an active icon on the toolbar. Also, when the toolbar is not selected, the control unit 100 repeats the process of step S4002 (step S4002; No).

[0208] Subsequently, when the maximization icon is selected by the user, the control unit 100 displays a toolbar in a display form (third display form) in which the user icon, call icon, and space selection icon are further displayed on the toolbar (step S4006; Yes → step S4008). On the other hand, when the maximization icon is not selected and the minimization icon is selected by the user, the control unit 100 returns to step S4000 (step S4006; No → step S4010; Yes → step S4000). Further, when the minimization icon is not selected by the user, the control unit 100 returns to step S4006 (step S4010; No → step S4006).

[0209] Also, when the minimization icon is selected while the toolbar is being displayed in the third display form, the control unit 100 returns to step S4004 (step S4012; Yes → step S4004). On the other hand, when the minimization icon is not selected while the toolbar is being displayed in the third display form, the control unit 100 repeats the process of step S4012 (step S4012; No).

[0210] FIG. 34 is a diagram showing an operation example of the present embodiment. First, as shown in T4000, the toolbar is displayed in the first display form. When the toolbar is selected, the toolbar is displayed in the second display form as shown in T4010 (P1). Here, when the maximization icon C4010 is selected, the toolbar is displayed in the third display form as shown in T4020 (P2).

[0211] On the other hand, in the toolbar displayed in the third display form, when the minimized icon C4020 is selected, the toolbar is displayed in the second display form as shown in T4010 (P3). Also, in the toolbar displayed in the second display form, when the minimized icon C4012 is selected, the toolbar is displayed in the first display form as shown in T4000 (P4). In this way, by switching the display mode of the toolbar, the user can make the area on the screen occupied by the toolbar smaller or display only the necessary selection icons.

[0212] Thus, according to this embodiment, it is possible to easily switch the display mode of the toolbar. As a result, the user can, for example, minimize the area occupied by the toolbar as much as possible with an easy operation on a terminal device where digital signage is displayed. Also, when using the toolbar, the user can change the display form of the toolbar with an easy operation and select a desired icon.

[0213] [5. Modification Example] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means modified within the scope not departing from the gist of the present disclosure are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure. Also, although the above-described embodiments have parts that are separately described for convenience of explanation, it goes without saying that they may be combined and executed within the technically possible range.

[0214] The programs that operate on the above-described devices may be recorded on and provided by a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Also, in the embodiments, the programs that operate on each device are programs that control a CPU or the like (programs that enable a computer to function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. And the information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during its processing, and then stored in a storage device such as various ROMs (Read Only Memory) or HDDs, and read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0215] As the recording medium for storing the program, any of a semiconductor medium (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), an optical recording medium or magneto-optical recording medium (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), etc.), a magnetic recording medium (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.) may be used. Also, by executing the loaded program, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but in some cases, the functions of the present disclosure are realized by jointly processing with an operating system or other application programs, etc. based on the instructions of the program.

[0216] Also, when distributing on the market, the program can be stored on a portable recording medium for distribution, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is of course also included in the present disclosure.

[0217] Also, each functional block or various features of the apparatus used in the above-described embodiments can be implemented or executed by an electric circuit, for example, an integrated circuit or a plurality of integrated circuits. An electric circuit designed to execute the functions described in this specification may include a general-purpose use processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gates or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or a combination thereof. The general-purpose use processor may be a microprocessor, or a conventional type processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The above-described electric circuit may be composed of a digital circuit or an analog circuit. Further, when an integrated circuit technology that replaces the current integrated circuit appears due to the progress of semiconductor technology, one or more aspects of the present disclosure can also use a new integrated circuit based on such technology. For example, in the present disclosure, in the case of the control unit 100, some or all of the processing units included in the control unit 100 may be composed of an electric circuit. Similarly, some or all of the processing units included in the control unit 200 may be composed of an electric circuit.

[0218] [Appendix 1 of the Disclosure] Hereinafter, an outline of the disclosure extracted from the above-described embodiments will be appended. Note that each configuration and each processing function described in the following appendix can be arbitrarily combined by making selections.

[0219] <Appendix 1> A management system that manages communication executed among a plurality of users by using a plurality of user terminals communicably connected, a specifying processing unit that specifies start timing and end timing of the communication based on the number of users participating in the communication; a storage processing unit that stores action information regarding user operations occurring from the start to the end of the communication in association with identification information of the communication; A management system comprising

[0220] <Appendix 2> The specific processing unit obtains the number of users participating on a board, which is a virtual two-dimensional space sharable by a plurality of users. The management system according to Appendix 1.

[0221] <Appendix 3> The board is a space where content can be arranged. The management system according to Appendix 2.

[0222] <Appendix 4> The board is a space where annotations can be added. The management system according to Appendix 2 or 3.

[0223] <Appendix 5> The user operation includes at least one of an operation for a user to arrange content on the board, an operation for a user to add an annotation on the board, an operation for a user to log in to the communication service, and an operation for a user to log off from the communication service. The management system according to any one of Appendices 2 to 4.

[0224] <Appendix 6> The specific processing unit specifies the time when the number of users becomes more than one as the start timing, and specifies the time when the number of users becomes one or less as the end timing. The management system according to any one of Appendices 1 to 5.

[0225] <Appendix 7> The storage processing unit stores the identification information of the communication, the identification information of the users participating in the communication, and the action information in association with each other as the history information of the communication. The management system according to any one of Appendices 1 to 6.

[0226] <Appendix 8> The management system further includes a display processing unit that displays a plurality of thumbnail images corresponding to the plurality of history information created for each communication in chronological order. The management system according to any one of Appendices 1 to 7.

[0227] <Appendix 9> Based on the history information corresponding to the thumbnail image selected by the user among the plurality of thumbnail images, the display processing unit causes the board to be displayed in the display mode last stored. The management system according to Appendix 8.

[0228] [Appendix 2 of the Disclosure] Hereinafter, an outline of the disclosure extracted from the above-described embodiment will be appended. Note that each configuration and each processing function described in the following appendices can be arbitrarily combined by selection.

[0229] <Appendix 1> The management system includes a control unit and a display unit. The control unit displays a toolbar including an icon indicating a user belonging to the same group as the user who has logged in to a service capable of providing a space where communication can be performed between users, a first button, and a second button. When the first button is selected, a request is made to the service to create the space available to the user logged in to the service and the user selected by the icon. When the second button is selected, the management system displays the communication history in the space of the users belonging to the same group.

[0230] <Appendix 2> The status of the user corresponding to the icon is displayed on the icon. The management system according to Appendix 1.

[0231] <Appendix 3> The control unit When the user who has logged in to the service is a user associated with a specific device, a third button is further displayed on the toolbar. When the third button is selected, information on the space used by the users belonging to the same group is displayed as a first list. The management system according to Appendix 1 or 2.

[0232] <Appendix 4> When the third button is selected, the control unit further displays information on the communication tools used by the users belonging to the same group as a second list. The management system according to Appendix 3.

[0233] <Appendix 5> The control unit displays the first list and the second list side by side. The management system according to Appendix 4.

[0234] <Appendix 6> The control unit displays the icons of the users using the space as the information on the space. The management system according to any one of Appendices 3 to 5.

[0235] <Appendix 7> The control unit displays the space name of the space and groups and displays the icons of the users together with the space name. The management system according to Appendix 6.

[0236] <Appendix 8> The communication tool is a board which is a virtual two-dimensional space that can be shared by a plurality of users. The management system according to any one of Appendices 4 to 7.

[0237] <Appendix 9> The board is a virtual two-dimensional space where content can be arranged. The management system described in Supplementary Note 8.

[0238] <Supplementary Note 10> The board is a virtual two-dimensional space where annotations can be added. The management system described in Supplementary Note 8 or 9.

[0239] <Supplementary Note 11> The control unit Further displays a fourth button on the toolbar. When the fourth button is selected, the space provided by the service is displayed so that it can be selected. When the space is selected, the logged-in user can use the selected space. The management system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

[0240] <Supplementary Note 12> The control unit Further displays a fifth button on the toolbar. When the fifth button is selected, a communication tool is displayed so that it can be selected. When the communication tool is selected, the communication tool is displayed on the display unit. The management system according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

[0241] <Supplementary Note 13> When the user logged in to the service is using the space, the control unit causes the communication tool to be displayed on the devices of other users using the space. The management system described in Supplementary Note 12.

[0242] <Supplementary Note 14> After the use of the space is started, the control unit starts communication related to communication between users using the space. The management system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 13.

[0243] <Appendix 15> A communication management method, displaying a toolbar including an icon indicating a user belonging to the same group as the user who has logged in to a service capable of providing a space where communication can be performed between users, a first button for requesting creation of the space that can be used by the user who has logged in to the service and the user selected from the icon, and a second button for displaying a communication history in the space of the users belonging to the same group; when creation of the space is requested, creating the space; displaying a communication history in the space of the users belonging to the same group; and a management method including the above.

Explanation of Signs

[0244] 1 System 10 Terminal device 100 Control unit 102 Voice call processing unit 104 Screen synchronization unit 106 Status synchronization unit 108 Login processing unit 120 Voice input unit 130 Voice output unit 140 Display unit 150 Operation unit 160 Storage unit 190 Communication unit 20 Server device 22 Server device 200 Control unit 202 Voice call processing unit 204 Information transmission unit 206 Screen synchronization unit 208 Status synchronization unit 210 Login processing unit 212 Board information update unit 260 Storage unit 262 User information storage area 264 Group information storage area 266 Space information storage area 268 Board information storage area 270 Board history information storage area 272 Login information storage area 274 File history information storage area 276 Space history information storage area 290 Communication unit

Claims

1. A management system for managing communication executed among a plurality of users by using a plurality of user terminals connected communicably, a specifying processing unit that specifies start timing and end timing of the communication based on the number of users participating in the communication; and a storage processing unit that stores action information regarding user operations that occur from the start to the end of the communication in association with identification information of the communication. A management system comprising the above.

2. The specifying processing unit acquires the number of users participating on a board, which is a virtual two-dimensional space sharable by a plurality of users. The management system according to Claim 1.

3. The board is a space where content can be arranged. The management system according to Claim 2.

4. The board is a space where annotations can be added. The management system according to Claim 2.

5. The user operation includes at least any one of an operation in which a user arranges content on the board, an operation in which a user adds an annotation on the board, an operation in which a user logs in to the communication service, and an operation in which a user logs off from the communication service. The management system according to Claim 2.

6. The specifying processing unit specifies the timing when the number of users becomes more than one person as the start timing, and specifies the timing when the number of users becomes one person or less as the end timing. The management system according to Claim 1.

7. The memory processing unit stores, in association with each other, the identification information of the board, the identification information of the users who participated in the board, and the action information, as the history information of the board. The management system according to claim 2.

8. The management system further includes a display processing unit that displays a plurality of thumbnail images corresponding to the plurality of pieces of history information created for each board in chronological order. The management system according to claim 7.

9. The display processing unit causes the board to be displayed in the display mode last stored, based on the history information corresponding to the thumbnail image selected by the user among the plurality of thumbnail images. The management system according to claim 8.

10. A management method for managing communication executed among a plurality of users using a plurality of user terminals connected communicably, identifying the start timing and end timing of the communication based on the number of users participating in the communication; storing action information regarding user operations that occurred during the period from the start to the end of the communication in association with the identification information of the communication; A management method executed by one or more processors.

11. A management program for managing communication executed among a plurality of users using a plurality of user terminals connected communicably, identifying the start timing and end timing of the communication based on the number of users participating in the communication; storing action information regarding user operations that occurred during the period from the start to the end of the communication in association with the identification information of the communication; A management program for causing one or more processors to execute.

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