Information processor and information processing program

Abstract

To provide an information processor and an information processing program capable of optimizing work in a home delivery service.SOLUTION: An information processor that assigns work in a home delivery service utilizing a real store as a distribution base to a person in charge of work comprises an article information processing unit, an accumulation information processing unit, a delivery information processing unit, a peripheral information processing unit, an additional information processing unit, and an assignment processing unit. The article information processing unit acquires information regarding the order of a commodity. The accumulation information processing unit acquires information regarding an accumulation place of the commodity. The delivery information processing unit acquires information regarding the delivery of the commodity. The peripheral information processing unit acquires information regarding a store's peripheral situation. The additional information processing unit acquires additional information regarding the assignment of the work. The assignment processing unit performs the assignment of the work based on the information regarding orders, the information regarding the accumulation place, the information regarding the delivery, the information regarding the store's peripheral situation, and the additional information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information processing device and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, online supermarkets, where customers can order supermarket products via e-commerce (EC) sites and have them delivered to their homes or other locations at a time of their choosing, and shopping proxy services, which do the shopping for customers at supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, etc., have become increasingly popular. Delivery services that use physical stores such as these or dark stores as delivery bases have the advantage of shortening the time from order to delivery, as products are delivered from locations relatively close to the consumer.

[0003] Delivery services that use physical stores as delivery bases perform fulfillment operations such as accepting customer orders via an e-commerce site (order acceptance), having pickers at the physical store pick up the products ordered by customers (item preparation), and then having delivery personnel from a delivery company deliver the products to the customer's home or other location (delivery).Efficiency is improved for each task in fulfillment operations, such as adjusting the number of orders, the order in which items are picked from shelves, and shortening delivery routes.

[0004] However, because each task in fulfillment operations is performed in a different location and by a different person, while efficiency improvements are made within the scope of each individual task, optimization of the entire fulfillment operation has not been achieved. Therefore, there is a need for a business support system that can optimize the entire fulfillment operation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-38353 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide an information processing device and an information processing program that can optimize the operations of a home delivery service. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, an information processing device that assigns tasks to workers in a delivery service that uses physical stores as delivery bases includes an item information processing unit, an accumulation information processing unit, a delivery information processing unit, a surrounding area information processing unit, an additional information processing unit, and an assignment processing unit. The item information processing unit acquires information related to product orders. The accumulation information processing unit acquires information related to product accumulation locations. The delivery information processing unit acquires information related to product delivery. The surrounding area information processing unit acquires information related to the surrounding conditions of the store. The additional information processing unit acquires additional information related to task assignment. The assignment processing unit assigns tasks based on information related to the order, information related to the accumulation location, information related to delivery, information related to the surrounding conditions of the store, and the additional information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a business support system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a procedure for information processing related to task allocation by the task support system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of task allocation according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a modified example of task allocation according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a procedure of information processing related to resource reservation by the task support system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals whenever possible, and duplicated explanations will be omitted. (Configuration example) FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a business support system 100 according to an embodiment. The business support system 100 includes a server 1, an EC server 2, a user terminal 3, a store device 4, and a delivery company device 5. The server 1, the EC server 2, the user terminal 3, the store device 4, and the delivery company device 5 are communicably connected to each other via a network. For example, the network is configured from one or more networks selected from various networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN (Local Area Network). The one or more networks may include a wireless network or a wired network. Note that the business support system 100 may also refer to a system including at least two devices selected from the server 1, the EC server 2, the user terminal 3, the store device 4, and the delivery company device 5.

[0010] The server 1 is a device that collects data and processes the collected data. The server 1 is communicably connected to the EC server 2, user terminal 3, store device 4, and delivery company device 5 via a network. The server 1 receives various data from the EC server 2, store device 4, and delivery company device 5, and outputs various data to the EC server 2, store device 4, and delivery company device 5. The server 1 is an example of an information processing device. An example configuration of the server 1 will be described later. The server 1 may also be a server used in a cloud service.

[0011] The server 1 performs processing to improve the efficiency of the entire delivery service business by linking the e-commerce website for the delivery service provided by the EC server 2 with picking work at stores and delivery work by delivery companies. The delivery service is, for example, a service in which product orders are accepted from customers via the EC server 2, a picker picks up the products according to the orders, and the delivery company delivers the picked up products to a delivery destination such as the customer's home. The delivery service sets a delivery area for each store. The delivery service may accept orders for multiple stores. The multiple stores are, for example, stores that can be identified by their delivery areas. The multiple stores may have different delivery areas. The multiple stores may include the same delivery area. The EC server 2 provides the e-commerce website for the delivery service. The EC server 2 accepts orders from customers via a user terminal 3 and provides information about the product orders to the server 1. The server 1 assigns product pickup work to a picker based on the information about the product orders. Picking is also called picking. The product picking work is performed by a picker at each store. The picker is also called a picker. A picker is a store clerk at each store. A picker may be a store clerk whose main job is picking, or may be a store clerk whose main job is other than picking. A picker picks items included in at least one order within a delivery time frame. Picking work may be performed by multiple pickers for orders within a specified delivery time frame. An order within a specified delivery time frame indicates an order that must be delivered within the specified delivery time frame. A delivery time frame is, for example, a time frame that divides the delivery time into specified time intervals. A delivery time frame is, for example, a time frame in one-hour or two-hour increments. A delivery time frame is, for example, "11:00 to 13:00," "13:00 to 15:00," "15:00 to 17:00," etc.

[0012] For example, the server 1 assigns the picking work of items ordered on an e-commerce site of a home delivery service to at least one picker. The server 1 assigns the delivery work of items ordered on the e-commerce site to at least one delivery company. The delivery company delivers the items included in the assigned order from the store where the picking work was performed to the delivery destination. The picker and delivery company may also be interpreted as worker, person in charge, or operator.

[0013] The EC server 2 is a device that collects and processes data. The EC server 2 is communicatively connected to the server 1 and the user terminal 3 via a network. The EC server 2 receives various data from the server 1 and the user terminal 3, and outputs various data to the server 1 and the user terminal 3. The EC server 2 communicates with the user terminal 3 owned by the customer via the network, and provides a home delivery service as an EC site.

[0014] The user terminal 3 is a device capable of communicating with other electronic devices. The user terminal 3 is a device owned by a customer. For example, the user terminal 3 may be, but is not limited to, a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, or a tablet terminal. The user of the user terminal 3 may be interpreted as a customer, a member, a consumer, or a person.

[0015] The in-store device 4 is a device capable of communicating with other electronic devices. The in-store device 4 is, for example, a device used by a store clerk who performs picking work in a store. For example, the in-store device 4 is a PC, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. The user of the in-store device 4 may be interpreted as a store clerk, a picker, or a person.

[0016] The delivery company device 5 is a device capable of communicating with other electronic devices. The delivery company device 5 is, for example, a device used by a delivery company. For example, the delivery company device 5 is a PC, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. The user of the delivery company device 5 may be interpreted as a delivery company or a person.

[0017] An example of the configuration of the server 1 will be described. The server 1 is a device including a processing circuit 11, a main memory 12, an auxiliary storage device 13, and a communication interface 14. The components constituting the server 1 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In FIG. 1, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0018] The processing circuit 11 corresponds to the central part of the server 1. The processing circuit 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. For example, the processing circuit 11 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but is not limited to this. The processing circuit 11 may be composed of various circuits. The processing circuit 11 loads a program that is pre-stored in the main memory 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13 into the main memory 12. The program is a program that causes the processing circuit 11 of the server 1 to realize each part described below. The processing circuit 11 performs various operations by executing the program loaded into the main memory 12.

[0019] The main memory 12 corresponds to the main storage portion of the server 1. The main memory 12 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. The main memory 12 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 12 stores an operating system or a program in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 12 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 11. For example, the main memory 12 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 12 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area. The main memory 12 stores programs.

[0020] The auxiliary storage device 13 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the server 1. The auxiliary storage device 13 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. The auxiliary storage device 13 is an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like. The auxiliary storage device 13 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processing circuit 11 when performing various processes, and data generated by the processes in the processing circuit 11. The auxiliary storage device 13 stores the above-mentioned programs.

[0021] The auxiliary storage device 13 stores item information, collection information, delivery information, store surrounding area information, and additional information. Item information is information about product orders. Collection information is information about product collection locations. Delivery information is information about product delivery. Store surrounding area information is information about the surrounding conditions of the store. Additional information is additional information about task allocation in the home delivery service.

[0022] The product information includes information about product orders accepted on the e-commerce site. The product information includes, for example, an order ID, a product list, a delivery address, a delivery time frame, and a delivery fee. The order ID is unique identification information assigned to each order to identify the order. The order ID is identification information assigned to each order. The product list indicates a list of products included in a single order. An order can be interpreted as a single order placed by a customer. An order includes a series of processes from when a customer uses a delivery service to order products, pay for the products, or complete the order. An order includes processes from when an order is placed to when order registration is completed. Completion of order registration indicates when the customer pays for the products or completes the order. The delivery address is information indicating the location where the customer desires delivery. The delivery address is, for example, the customer's address based on the customer's user information. The customer's user information may be stored in the auxiliary storage device 13. The delivery address may be the address registered by the customer when placing the order. In the following description, "registration" may be read as "input." The delivery time frame indicates the time frame in which the customer desires delivery for each order. The product information may be saved or updated each time the server 1 obtains information about an order from the EC server 2.

[0023] The accumulation information includes the location of the store where the products are picked, the display location of the products within the store, etc. The accumulation information includes information such as a store ID, the store location, and the display location of the products. The store ID is unique identification information assigned to each store to individually identify the store. The store ID may be the store name. The store location is information indicating the store's address. The display location of the products is information regarding the display location of the products in the store where the products are picked. The display location may be information indicating, for example, the aisle facing the shelf where the products are displayed. The display location may be information indicating the shelf where the products are displayed. The display location may be information indicating the area of the shelf where the products are displayed. The display location may be information indicating a location corresponding to map information of the store, etc. The display location may be updated as appropriate by a manager, etc. The accumulation information may include inventory information or display quantity of products for each store. The inventory information or display quantity may be updated based on updates to product information. The inventory information or display quantity may be updated based on updates to transaction information for each store.

[0024] The delivery information includes information about the product pickup time, the required delivery time, and the delivery route of the product by the delivery company. The information about the product pickup time, the required delivery time, and the delivery route of the product is determined for each delivery company. The delivery information may also include other information about the delivery company.

[0025] The information about the surrounding area of a store is information that may affect work allocation. The information about the surrounding area of a store includes at least one of information about the weather around the store, information about events held around the store, and traffic information around the store. The information about the weather around the store includes, for example, information about the weather corresponding to the delivery area for each store. The information about events held around the store includes, for example, information about events held in the delivery area for each store. Events held around the store include, for example, local events such as fireworks displays and festivals. The traffic information around the store includes, for example, information about traffic congestion on roads around the store, and information about traffic accidents and disasters that have occurred on roads around the store.

[0026] The information about the vicinity of a store may include information about promotions (sales promotions) being held at the store or at nearby stores. Information about promotions includes information about special offers, sales, and promotional events at the store. The information about the vicinity of a store may also include information about store operations. Information about store operations includes, for example, schedules for performing specific tasks such as inventory, product replenishment, and event venue setup. Furthermore, the information about the vicinity of a store may also include work information for pickers, delivery personnel, etc. The work information for pickers, delivery personnel, etc. includes information about work dates and times.

[0027] The information about the surrounding area of the store may be, for example, other information that may affect the number of customers in the store or the number of customers using the delivery service. The information about the surrounding area of the store may also be other information that may affect the inventory or display quantity of products in the store, or other information that may affect the time required for delivery. The information about the surrounding area of the store may also be other information that may affect the congestion level of the store, or other information that may affect the work of pickers, delivery companies, etc.

[0028] The additional information is condition or constraint information related to at least one of item information, accumulation information, delivery information, and store surrounding area information. The additional information includes information indicating work allocation conditions and constraints related to work allocation. The work allocation conditions are, for example, values that can serve as parameters related to work allocation optimization. The work allocation conditions include request conditions for delivery companies. The request conditions for delivery companies include, for example, delivery fees, pickup times, collection deadlines, and required delivery times. The work allocation conditions include conditions related to picking work. The picking work conditions include, for example, conditions related to the number of pickers required and conditions related to the time required for picking work. The condition related to the number of pickers required includes, for example, minimizing the number of people required. The condition related to the time required for picking work includes, for example, minimizing the time required for picking work. The cost condition includes, for example, minimizing costs. The work allocation conditions may be set by a store manager or the like.

[0029] Constraints on work allocation indicate, for example, information for narrowing down solutions for optimizing work allocation. Constraints on work allocation include constraints on pickers who pick products in stores, constraints on delivery companies who collect products in stores, etc. Constraints on pickers include constraints on picker allocation. Constraints on picker allocation include, for example, information that restricts picker combinations. For example, information that restricts picker combinations is restriction information that prohibits clerk a and clerk f from being assigned as pickers at the same time because they belong to the same department (vegetable section). Constraints on picker allocation include information that restricts picker selection. For example, information that restricts picker selection includes restriction information that, when changing from a two-picker system to a three-picker system, selects additional pickers from the stocking clerk. Constraints on delivery companies include constraints on delivery company allocation. Constraints on delivery company allocation include information that restricts delivery company combinations. The information restricting the combination of delivery companies includes, for example, restriction information for equalizing the orders allocated to delivery company A and the orders allocated to delivery company B. The constraints on work allocation may be set by a store manager or the like.

[0030] The additional information can be updated as needed by the administrator of the server 1, the administrator of the store X, etc. The additional information is not limited to the information described above, and may be any information that is additionally referenced to optimize task allocation.

[0031] The auxiliary storage device 13 may store a task allocation optimization program. The optimization program may be, for example, a mathematical optimization program. The optimization program may be realized by a known mathematical optimization technique. The auxiliary storage device 13 may also store a learning model related to task allocation optimization.

[0032] The communication interface 14 includes various interfaces that connect the server 1 to other devices via a network in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol so that the server 1 can communicate with other devices.

[0033] The hardware configuration of the server 1 is not limited to the above configuration, and the server 1 allows the omission or modification of the above components and the addition of new components as appropriate.

[0034] Each unit realized in the processing circuit 11 will now be described. The processing circuit 11 realizes an item information processing unit 110, an accumulation information processing unit 111, a delivery information processing unit 112, a peripheral information processing unit 113, an additional information processing unit 114, and an allocation processing unit 115. Each unit realized in the processing circuit 11 can also be said to be each function. Each unit realized in the processing circuit 11 can also be said to be realized in a control unit including the processing circuit 11 and the main memory 12. The processing circuit 11 is an example of a processing circuit.

[0035] The product information processing unit 110 performs processing related to product information. The product information processing unit 110 acquires product information from the EC server 2 via the communication interface 14. In the following description, "acquire" may be read as "receive." The product information processing unit 110 may acquire product information from the auxiliary storage device 13.

[0036] The accumulation information processing unit 111 performs processing related to the accumulation information. The accumulation information processing unit 111 acquires the accumulation information from the in-store device 4 via the communication interface 14. The accumulation information processing unit 111 may acquire the accumulation information from the auxiliary storage device 13.

[0037] The delivery information processing unit 112 performs processing related to delivery information. The delivery information processing unit 112 acquires delivery information from the delivery company device 5 via the communication interface 14. The delivery information processing unit 112 may acquire delivery information from the auxiliary storage device 13.

[0038] The peripheral information processing unit 113 performs processing related to the peripheral information of the store. The peripheral information processing unit 113 acquires the peripheral information of the store from an external device via the communication interface 14. The peripheral information processing unit 113 may acquire the peripheral information from the auxiliary storage device 13.

[0039] The additional information processing unit 114 performs processing related to the additional information. The additional information processing unit 114 acquires the additional information from the auxiliary storage device 13. The additional information processing unit 114 may acquire the additional information from an external device via the communication interface 14.

[0040] The allocation processing unit 115 performs a picking work allocation process that allocates orders to pickers. The allocation processing unit 115 allocates orders to pickers based on item information, accumulation information, delivery information, peripheral information, and additional information. The allocation processing unit 115 performs a work allocation process using mathematical optimization processing or the like based on an optimization program. The allocation processing unit 115 allocates work so as to optimize at least one of the number of people required for the picking work, the required time, and the cost.

[0041] The allocation processing unit 115 performs a delivery task allocation process that allocates orders to delivery companies. The allocation processing unit 115 allocates orders to delivery companies based on item information, accumulation information, delivery information, surrounding information, and additional information. The allocation processing unit 115 performs task allocation process using mathematical optimization processing or the like based on an optimization program. The allocation processing unit 115 allocates tasks so as to optimize at least one of the number of people required for delivery tasks, the required delivery time, and the delivery fee.

[0042] The allocation processing unit 115 calculates the resources required for the allocated work. The resources are, for example, resources related to pickers and delivery companies. The allocation processing unit 115 outputs the results of the allocation process to an external device via the communication interface 14.

[0043] The allocation processing unit 115 outputs a confirmation request for the item information to the EC server 2 via the communication interface 14 based on the result of the allocation processing. The result of the allocation processing includes information on the work allocation pattern and the required resources. The item information processing unit 110 acquires a response to the confirmation request for the item information from the EC server 2 via the communication interface 14. The allocation processing unit 115 outputs a confirmation request for the item information to the EC server 2 via the communication interface 14 based on the result of the allocation processing. The item information processing unit 110 acquires a response to the confirmation request for the item information from the EC server 2 via the communication interface 14. The allocation processing unit 115 outputs a resource allocation instruction for the accumulation information to the store device 4 via the communication interface 14 based on the result of the allocation processing. The allocation processing unit 115 acquires a response to the resource allocation instruction from the store device 4 via the communication interface 14. The allocation processing unit 115 outputs a resource allocation instruction for the delivery information to the delivery company device 5 via the communication interface 14 based on the result of the allocation processing. The delivery information processing unit 112 acquires a response to the resource allocation instruction from the delivery company device 5 via the communication interface 14. In the following description, "output" may be read as "transmit".

[0044] The allocation processing unit 115 outputs a confirmation request indicating information related to the item information to the EC server 2 via the communication interface 14. The allocation processing unit 115 outputs a resource reservation instruction to the store device 4 via the communication interface 14. The resource reservation instruction includes information instructing the store device 4 to reserve a picker required for the work. The allocation processing unit 115 outputs the resource reservation instruction to the delivery company device 5 via the communication interface 14. The resource reservation instruction includes information instructing the store device 4 to reserve a delivery company required for the work.

[0045] (Example of operation) The processing procedure performed by the business support system 100 will now be described. In the following description, which mainly focuses on server 1, server 1 may be read as processing circuit 11. Similarly, in the following description, which mainly focuses on EC server 2, EC server 2 may be read as the processing circuit of EC server 2. In the following description, which mainly focuses on user terminal 3, user terminal 3 may be read as the processing circuit of user terminal 3. In the following description, which mainly focuses on store device 4, store device 4 may be read as the processing circuit of store device 4. In the following description, which mainly focuses on delivery company device 5, delivery company device 5 may be read as the processing circuit of delivery company device 5. The processing procedures described below are merely examples, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, steps may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate depending on the embodiment. In the following process, it is assumed that a user (customer) of a user terminal 3 places an order on an EC site for a home delivery service provided by the EC server 2. The EC server 2 outputs information related to the customer's order to the server 1. The EC server 2 accepts information related to the order at any time.

[0046] The following process will be described as a process for an order to be delivered within a predetermined delivery time frame. The following process will be described as a process for an order within the delivery area of Store X.

[0047] FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a procedure for information processing related to task allocation by the task support system 100 according to the embodiment.

[0048] The processing circuitry 11 acquires information about the order from the EC server 2. The processing circuitry 11 may acquire information about the order from the EC server 2 at any time. The processing circuitry 11 may acquire information about orders to multiple stores. The processing circuitry 11 stores the information about the order as product information in the auxiliary storage device 13.

[0049] The processing circuit 11 acquires item information (ACT1). ACT1 may be processing by the item information processing unit 110. In ACT1, for example, the processing circuit 11 acquires item information when a predetermined operation timing is reached. The predetermined operation timing is, for example, a timing based on the start time of a predetermined delivery time frame. The predetermined operation timing is, for example, two hours before the start time of the delivery time frame. The processing circuit 11 acquires item information related to orders in the predetermined delivery time frame.

[0050] The processing circuit 11 acquires accumulation information from the in-store device 4 (ACT2). ACT2 may be processing by the accumulation information processing unit 111. In ACT2, for example, the processing circuit 11 acquires accumulation information related to store X. The processing circuit 11 may acquire the accumulation information from the in-store device 4 in advance and store it in the auxiliary storage device 13. The processing circuit 11 may also acquire the accumulation information from the auxiliary storage device 13.

[0051] The processing circuit 11 acquires delivery information from the delivery company device 5 (ACT3). ACT3 may be processing by the delivery information processing unit 112. In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 11 acquires delivery information from the delivery company device 5 of a predetermined delivery company. The predetermined delivery company may be a delivery company set in advance by the administrator of the server 1, the administrator of store X, etc. The predetermined delivery company may be updated as appropriate by the administrator of the server 1, the administrator of store X, etc. The predetermined delivery company may be multiple delivery companies. The processing circuit 11 may acquire delivery information from the delivery company device 5 in advance and store it in the auxiliary storage device 13. The processing circuit 11 may acquire delivery information from the auxiliary storage device 13.

[0052] The processing circuit 11 acquires information about the vicinity of store X (ACT4). ACT4 may be processing by the vicinity information processing unit 113. In ACT4, for example, the processing circuit 11 acquires information about the vicinity of store X from an external device. The processing circuit 11 may acquire information about the vicinity of store X from the external device in advance and store the information in the auxiliary storage device 13. The processing circuit 11 may acquire information about the vicinity of store X from the auxiliary storage device 13. The processing circuit 11 may acquire information about the vicinity of store X from the external device every time the information about the vicinity of store X is updated. The processing circuit 11 may acquire information about the vicinity of store X from the external device at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing may be updated as appropriate by the administrator of the server 1, the administrator of store X, etc. The predetermined timing may be, for example, the opening time of the store.

[0053] The processing circuit 11 acquires the additional information (ACT5). ACT5 may be processing by the additional information processing unit 114. In ACT5, the processing circuit 11 acquires the additional information from the auxiliary storage device 13, for example.

[0054] The processing circuit 11 performs task allocation processing and calculates the required resources (ACT6). ACT6 may be processing by the allocation processing unit 115. In ACT6, for example, the processing circuit 11 performs task allocation processing and calculates the required resources based on the item information, accumulation information, delivery information, peripheral information, and additional information. The processing circuit 11 performs task allocation processing so as to optimize at least one of the number of people required for picking work, the required picking time, picking costs, the number of people required for delivery work, the required delivery time, and delivery costs.

[0055] The processing circuitry 11 performs the picking work allocation process using, for example, mathematical optimization technology. The processing circuitry 11 may perform the picking work allocation process according to an optimization program stored in the auxiliary storage device 13. Specifically, the processing circuitry 11 sets the picking work order for items included in multiple orders, sets the number of pickers, and selects the responsible pickers. The processing circuitry 11 may also perform the picking work order and the responsible picker selection for each order. The processing circuitry 11, for example, calculates a picking work allocation pattern that combines the picking work order, the number of pickers, and the responsible pickers. The processing circuitry 11 calculates the resources required for the picking work for each picking work allocation pattern. The resources include, for example, the number of pickers and the responsible pickers. The processing circuitry 11 may calculate multiple picking work allocation patterns and set priorities for the multiple picking work allocation patterns. The processing circuitry 11 may set the priorities for the picking work allocation patterns based on at least one of the number of pickers required for the picking work, the picking time required, and the picking cost.

[0056] The processing circuitry 11 performs delivery task allocation processing using, for example, mathematical optimization technology. The processing circuitry 11 may perform the delivery task allocation processing according to an optimization program stored in the auxiliary storage device 13. Specifically, the processing circuitry 11 selects delivery companies for items included in multiple orders, sets delivery routes, sets collection locations, sets collection times, sets delivery sequences, and sets delivery fees. The processing circuitry 11 calculates a delivery task allocation pattern that combines, for example, the responsible delivery company, delivery route, collection location, collection time, delivery sequence, and delivery fees. The processing circuitry 11 calculates resources required for delivery tasks for each delivery task allocation pattern. The resources include, for example, the number of delivery companies and the responsible delivery company. The processing circuitry 11 may calculate multiple delivery task allocation patterns and prioritize the multiple delivery task allocation patterns. The processing circuitry 11 may prioritize the delivery task allocation patterns based on at least one of the number of people required for delivery tasks, the required delivery time, and the delivery fee.

[0057] The processing circuitry 11 stores the results of the work assignment process and resource calculation in the auxiliary storage device 13. The results of the work assignment process and resource calculation may include a picking work assignment pattern, a delivery work assignment pattern, a priority of the picking work assignment pattern, and a priority of the delivery work assignment pattern.

[0058] An example of the calculation of work allocation and resources by the processing circuitry 11 will now be described. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an example of task allocation according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 shows, for example, a list of multiple orders received from multiple customers. The list of orders is a list of orders to be delivered within a specified delivery time frame. For example, the list of orders is a list of orders whose delivery destinations are within the delivery area of store X. For example, the list of orders is a list of orders that fall within the delivery time frame "11:00 to 13:00". The order list includes orders 1 to 9. The order list includes information such as an order ID, a product list, a delivery address, and a delivery time frame. In the example of FIG. 3, for simplicity of explanation, the product list indicates the number of items. The order list is included in the product information.

[0059] The allocation processing unit 115 performs optimization processing based on, for example, item information and allocates multiple orders to pickers. The allocation processing unit 115, for example, groups multiple orders based on the distance between the delivery destination and store X. For example, a case will be described in which multiple orders are divided into three groups based on the distance between the delivery destination and store X. The allocation processing unit 115 classifies orders whose delivery destination is far from store X into group 1, and orders whose delivery destination is close to store X into group 3. The allocation processing unit 115 classifies orders whose delivery destination is intermediate between group 1 and group 3 into group 2. The distance between the delivery destination and store X may be calculated based on the travel time between the two points. The distance between the delivery destination and store X may be calculated by setting multiple areas divided based on the distance from store X. In this example, orders 1, 3, and 6 are assigned to group 3. Orders 2, 4, and 7 are assigned to group 2. Orders 5, 8, and 9 are assigned to group 1.

[0060] The allocation processing unit 115 may optimize the allocation of picking work for orders based on the accumulation information, depending on the number of items included in the order, the location of the items, etc. The allocation processing unit 115 may, for example, allocate orders with a large number of items to a picker who performs picking work as part of their regular work. The allocation processing unit 115 may also allocate orders with a small number of items to an additional picker. The allocation processing unit 115 may allocate picking work based on the number of items or the display location of the items so as to reduce the variation in workload among pickers.

[0061] The allocation processing unit 115 optimizes the order of picking work for orders based on the delivery information to match the pickup time of the delivery company. For example, the allocation processing unit 115 may determine the order of picking work for orders so that the picking work of group 1 is completed by the pickup time of delivery company A. The allocation processing unit 115 allocates delivery work based on the delivery information. The allocation processing unit 115 may determine the delivery company to which the order is allocated based on the pickup time of the delivery company. The allocation processing unit 115 may determine the delivery route for the orders allocated to each delivery company based on the delivery information, with reference to the required delivery time, etc.

[0062] The allocation processing unit 115 determines the number of pickers, the store staff who will be pickers, etc., based on information about the area around store X. For example, the allocation processing unit 115 allocates orders from groups 1 to 3 to three pickers. For example, if it is raining, the allocation processing unit 115 may reduce the number of stockers because it is expected that the number of customers visiting the store will decrease. On the other hand, the allocation processing unit 115 may increase the number of pickers because it is expected that the number of customers using the delivery service will increase.

[0063] The allocation processing unit 115 allocates picking and delivery work based on the additional information. For example, a case will be described in which the additional information indicates conditions regarding the time required for picking work and constraints regarding the allocation of pickers. The condition regarding the time required for picking work is to minimize the time required for picking work. The constraint regarding the allocation of pickers is to prohibit the simultaneous assignment of clerk a and clerk f as pickers. The allocation processing unit 115 determines to increase the number of pickers from two to three in order to minimize the time required for picking work. The allocation processing unit 115 may assign a stocker who is familiar with the sales floor to the picker in order to minimize the time required for picking work. The allocation processing unit 115 may also limit the selection of pickers so that only one of clerk a and clerk f is assigned to the picker. The clerk assigned to the picking work is also referred to as the assigned picker.

[0064] The allocation processing unit 115 determines the orders to be assigned to each picker and the order in which the picking work will be performed. In the example of FIG. 3, the allocation processing unit 115 assigns orders 1, 2, and 5 to picker a in the order of "order 5, order 2, order 1," assigns orders 6, 7, and 8 to picker b in the order of "order 8, order 7, order 6," and assigns orders 3, 4, and 9 to picker c in the order of "order 9, order 4, order 3." The allocation processing unit 115 assigns orders 5, 8, and 9 to delivery company a. The allocation processing unit 115 assigns orders 1, 2, 6, 7, 3, and 4 to delivery company b. A delivery company assigned to a delivery task is also referred to as a responsible delivery company.

[0065] As described above, the allocation processing unit 115 performs picking work allocation processing and delivery work allocation processing for orders 1 to 9. The allocation processing unit 115 may perform mathematical optimization processing for each of the picking work and the delivery work. The allocation processing unit 115 may also perform mathematical optimization processing for both the picking work and the delivery work.

[0066] According to this example, the server 1 can perform picking task allocation processing and delivery task allocation processing based on item information, collection information, delivery information, surrounding area information, and additional information. For example, the server 1 can optimally allocate picking tasks by determining the order of picking tasks according to the delivery destination address and the specified delivery time based on the item information. The server 1 can optimally allocate picking tasks by determining the order of picking tasks according to the store location, product display position, etc. based on the collection information. The server 1 can optimally allocate delivery tasks by determining the responsible delivery company according to the delivery fee for each delivery company, the pickup time, the required delivery time, the delivery route, etc. based on the delivery information. The server 1 can optimally allocate picking tasks by determining the number of pickers based on the weather around the store and events held around the store based on the surrounding area information of the store. By allocating tasks based on the surrounding area information of the store, the server 1 can optimally allocate tasks by taking into account not only information related to the task assignment but also various information that may affect the task assignment. Based on the additional information, the server 1 can optimally allocate tasks according to the request conditions for the delivery company, constraints for each store, etc. By allocating tasks based on the additional information, the server 1 can optimally allocate tasks according to the operations of each store. This allows the server 1 to allocate tasks so as to optimize at least one of the number of people required for picking work, the time required for picking, the picking cost, the number of people required for delivery work, the time required for delivery, and the delivery fee. In this way, the server 1 can optimize the operations in the delivery service. The server 1 can optimize the assignment of tasks across the entire operations in the delivery service.

[0067] (Variation) A modified example of the calculation of work allocation and resources by the processing circuit 11 will now be described. The server 1 may perform task allocation processing and resource calculation for orders in delivery areas of multiple stores. The following processing will be described as processing performed by the server 1 for orders to be delivered within a predetermined delivery time frame. The server 1 acquires information about orders in the delivery areas of store X and store Y as product information. The server 1 acquires accumulation information for store X and store Y. The accumulation information includes inventory information or display quantities of products in store X and store Y. The server 1 acquires delivery information about the delivery areas of store X and store Y. The server 1 acquires information about the surrounding areas of store X and store Y. The server 1 acquires additional information about store X and store Y.

[0068] The processing circuit 11 of the server 1 performs task allocation processing and resource calculation for orders in the delivery areas of store X and store Y. For example, the processing circuit 11 performs task allocation processing and resource calculation based on item information, accumulation information, delivery information, information about the vicinity of store X and store Y, and additional information. The task allocation processing and resource calculation may be performed by the allocation processing unit 115. Similar to ACT6, the allocation processing unit 115 performs task allocation processing and resource calculation using mathematical optimization technology.

[0069] The allocation processing unit 115 may allocate orders for which picking work is to be performed at store X and orders for which picking work is to be performed at store Y based on information about the areas surrounding store X and store Y. The allocation processing unit 115 may allocate orders for which picking work is to be performed at store X and orders for which picking work is to be performed at store Y based on accumulation information about store X and store Y.

[0070] FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a modified example of task allocation according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 shows, for example, a list of multiple orders received from multiple customers. The list of orders is a list of orders to be delivered within a specified delivery time frame. For example, the list of orders is a list of orders whose delivery destinations are within the delivery area of Store X. For example, the list of orders is a list of orders that fall within the delivery time frame of "11:00 to 13:00."

[0071] The allocation processing unit 115 performs optimization processing based on, for example, item information and allocates multiple orders to stores and pickers. The allocation processing unit 115, for example, groups multiple orders based on the distances between the delivery destination and store X and store Y. For example, a case will be described in which multiple orders are divided into two groups based on the distances between the delivery destination and store X and store Y. The allocation processing unit 115 classifies orders whose delivery destination is close to store X into group 1, and orders whose delivery destination is close to store Y into group 2. The distance between the delivery destination and store X may be calculated based on the travel time between the two points. The distance between the delivery destination and store X may be calculated by setting multiple areas divided based on the distance from store X. In this example, orders 1, 3, 6, 2, 4, and 7 are assigned to group 1. Orders 5, 8, and 9 are assigned to group 2.

[0072] The allocation processing unit 115 may optimize the allocation of orders and the allocation of order picking work based on the accumulation information. For example, the allocation processing unit 115 may allocate orders to either store X or store Y based on inventory information or the amount of items on display included in the orders. If store X has a low inventory or display amount of items included in order 2, the allocation processing unit 115 may allocate order 2 to store Y. Allocating orders includes determining the store to which the order should be allocated.

[0073] The allocation processing unit 115 optimizes the allocation of orders and the order picking sequence based on the delivery information, in accordance with the delivery company's collection time. For example, the allocation processing unit 115 may determine the order picking sequence based on the delivery company's collection time at store X and the delivery company's collection time at store Y. In the example of FIG. 4 , the allocation processing unit 115 determines the order of picking at store X so that picking of orders 4 and 6 is completed by the collection time of delivery company A. The allocation processing unit 115 determines the order of picking at store X so that picking of orders 1, 2, 3, and 7 is completed by the collection time of delivery company B. The allocation processing unit 115 determines the order of picking at store Y so that picking of orders 5, 8, and 9 is completed by the collection time of delivery company A.

[0074] The allocation processing unit 115 may allocate orders based on the delivery information in accordance with the delivery route of the delivery company, the required delivery time, the delivery location, or the like.

[0075] The allocation processing unit 115 may allocate orders based on information about the vicinity of store X. For example, if an event is held near store X, it is expected that the number of customers visiting store X will increase or that traffic conditions around store X will worsen. If an event is held near store X, the allocation processing unit 115 may reduce the number of orders allocated to store X and increase the number of orders allocated to store Y.

[0076] The allocation processing unit 115 allocates picking and delivery tasks based on the additional information. For example, a case will be described in which the additional information includes a condition regarding delivery fees and a constraint regarding picker allocation. The condition regarding delivery fees is to minimize delivery fees. The constraint regarding picker allocation is to prohibit the simultaneous allocation of clerk a and clerk f as pickers in store X. To minimize delivery fees, the allocation processing unit 115 determines to allocate more orders to delivery company A, which has a lower delivery fee than delivery company B. The allocation processing unit 115 may allocate orders 4, 6, 5, 8, and 9 to delivery company A, and allocate the other orders to delivery company B. The allocation processing unit 115 may also limit the selection of pickers so that only one of clerk a and clerk f is assigned to a picker in store X.

[0077] The allocation processing unit 115 determines the orders to be assigned to each store and each picker and the order in which the picking work will be performed. In the example of FIG. 4, the allocation processing unit 115 assigns orders 1, 2, and 4 to picker a of store X in the order of "order 4, order 2, order 1," assigns orders 3, 6, and 7 to picker b of store X in the order of "order 6, order 7, order 3," and assigns orders 5, 8, and 9 to picker d of store Y in the order of "order 5, order 8, and order 9." The allocation processing unit 115 assigns orders 4 and 6 from store X and orders 5, 8, and 9 from store Y to delivery company a. The allocation processing unit 115 assigns orders 1, 2, 3, and 7 from store X to delivery company b.

[0078] As described above, the allocation processing unit 115 performs picking work allocation processing and delivery work allocation processing for orders 1 to 9. The allocation processing unit 115 may perform mathematical optimization processing for each of the picking work and the delivery work. The allocation processing unit 115 may also perform mathematical optimization processing for both the picking work and the delivery work.

[0079] According to this example, the server 1 can perform picking task allocation processing and delivery task allocation processing for orders at multiple stores based on item information, collection information, delivery information, surrounding area information, and additional information. For example, the server 1 can optimally allocate picking tasks by determining the store to which an order is assigned based on the delivery destination address and the specified delivery time based on the item information and determining the order of picking tasks. The server 1 can optimally allocate picking tasks by determining the store to which an order is assigned based on the store's location, product display position, etc. based on the collection information and determining the order of picking tasks. The server 1 can optimally allocate delivery tasks by determining the store to which an order is assigned and the responsible delivery company based on the delivery information based on the delivery fee for each delivery company, the pickup time, the required delivery time, the delivery route, etc. The server 1 can optimally allocate delivery tasks by determining the store to which an order is assigned based on the weather around the store and events held around the store based on information about the surrounding area of the store and determining the number of pickers. Based on the additional information, the server 1 can optimally allocate tasks according to the request conditions for the delivery company, constraints for each store, etc. Therefore, the server 1 can allocate tasks so as to optimize at least one of the number of people required for picking work, the time required for picking, the picking cost, the number of people required for delivery work, the time required for delivery, and the delivery fee. In this way, the server 1 can optimize the work in the home delivery service. The server 1 can optimize the work allocation across the entire work in the home delivery service.

[0080] FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a procedure for information processing related to resource reservation by the task support system 100 according to the embodiment. The server 1 performs resource allocation processing between the store device 4 and the delivery company device 5 based on the calculated task allocation and resources. For example, the server 1 inquires of the store device 4 whether the resources required for the task allocation can be secured, and determines the task allocation based on the resources that can be secured. The server 1 inquires of the delivery company device 5 whether the resources required for the task allocation can be secured, and determines the task allocation based on the resources that can be secured.

[0081] The processing circuit 11 acquires the results of the task allocation process and resource calculation from the auxiliary storage device 13 (ACT11). ACT11 may be processing by the allocation processing unit 115.

[0082] The processing circuit 11 determines whether a resource reservation instruction related to the delivery information is necessary (ACT12). ACT12 may be processed by the allocation processing unit 115. Resources related to the delivery information are resources related to delivery companies. A resource reservation instruction related to the delivery information is an instruction to reserve delivery companies required to execute a delivery work allocation pattern. Resources related to delivery companies include the number of delivery companies, the responsible delivery company, the delivery order, the collection order, the collection time, the delivery route, the delivery destination, etc. A resource reservation instruction related to the delivery information indicates an instruction to reserve a responsible delivery company. Specific examples include reserving delivery company A so that delivery company A can collect at the collection time "13:00", reserving delivery company A so that delivery company A can deliver the ordered items to the delivery destination via the assigned delivery route, etc.

[0083] If a resource allocation instruction related to the delivery information is necessary (ACT12: YES), the process transitions from ACT12 to ACT13. If a resource allocation instruction related to the delivery information is not necessary (ACT12: NO), the process transitions from ACT12 to ACT14. For example, the processing circuit 11 determines whether the resources required for the delivery work (e.g., the number of delivery companies) obtained in the process of ACT6 in FIG. 2 are sufficient (compared to the current number of delivery companies). If the processing circuit 11 determines that the resources required for the delivery work are insufficient, it may determine that a resource allocation instruction related to the delivery information is necessary. Note that whether a resource allocation instruction related to the delivery information is necessary may be set by the user. The processing circuit 11 may determine whether a resource allocation instruction related to the delivery information is necessary based on a rule related to resource allocation, a learned model, or the like.

[0084] The processing circuit 11 instructs the allocation of resources related to the delivery information (ACT13). ACT13 may be processing by the allocation processing unit 115. In ACT13, for example, the processing circuit 11 outputs a resource allocation instruction to the delivery company device 5. The resource allocation instruction may be an instruction to allocate delivery companies required to execute the delivery job allocation pattern with the highest priority. The delivery company device 5 outputs a response indicating whether resources can be allocated to the server 1 based on the resource allocation instruction. The delivery company device 5 may output the response to the server 1 based on an operation by a user of the delivery company device 5. The delivery company device 5 may output the response to the server 1 based on delivery information stored in the delivery company device 5, etc. The processing circuit 11 determines the delivery job allocation pattern to be applied based on the response from the delivery company device 5. The processing circuit 11 may output an instruction to the delivery company device 5 to allocate delivery companies required to execute the delivery job allocation pattern with the next highest priority based on the response from the delivery company device 5. For example, when resources related to the delivery work allocation pattern with the highest priority cannot be secured, the processing circuitry 11 issues a resource securing instruction to secure resources related to the delivery work allocation pattern with the next highest priority. The processing circuitry 11 issues a resource securing instruction according to the priority (e.g., from high to low) of the delivery work allocation patterns, and determines the delivery work allocation pattern to be applied based on the resources that can be secured by the delivery company device 5. The processing circuitry 11 may repeatedly issue a resource securing instruction according to the priority of the delivery work allocation patterns.

[0085] The processing circuit 11 determines whether a resource reservation instruction related to the accumulation information is necessary (ACT14). ACT14 may be processed by the allocation processing unit 115. The resources related to the accumulation information are resources related to pickers. The resource reservation instruction related to pickers is an instruction to reserve pickers required to execute the picking work allocation pattern. The resources related to pickers include the number of pickers, the assigned picker, the picking order, etc. The resource reservation instruction related to the accumulation information indicates an instruction to reserve the assigned picker. Specific examples include reserving three pickers for a specified delivery time slot, assigning store clerk C from the stocker to a picker, and assigning orders 1, 2, and 5 to picker A.

[0086] If a resource allocation instruction related to the accumulation information is necessary (ACT14: YES), the processing transitions from ACT14 to ACT15. If a resource allocation instruction related to the accumulation information is not necessary (ACT14: NO), the processing transitions from ACT14 to ACT16. For example, the processing circuit 11 determines whether or not the resources related to the accumulation information (e.g., the number of people required for picking work) obtained in the processing of ACT6 in FIG. 2 are sufficient (compared to the current number of pickers). If the processing circuit 11 determines that the resources related to the accumulation information are insufficient, it may determine that a resource allocation instruction related to the accumulation information is necessary. Note that whether or not a resource allocation instruction related to the accumulation information is necessary may be set by the user. The processing circuit 11 may determine whether or not a resource allocation instruction related to the accumulation information is necessary based on a rule related to resource allocation, a learned model, or the like.

[0087] The processing circuitry 11 instructs the allocation of resources related to the accumulation information (ACT15). ACT15 may be processing by the allocation processing unit 115. In ACT15, for example, the processing circuitry 11 outputs a resource allocation instruction to the store device 4. The resource allocation instruction may be an instruction to allocate a picker required to execute the picking operation allocation pattern with the highest priority. The store device 4 outputs a response indicating whether resources can be allocated to the server 1 based on the resource allocation instruction. The store device 4 may output the response to the server 1 based on an operation by a user of the store device 4. The store device 4 may output the response to the server 1 based on accumulation information, employee shift information, and the like stored in the store device 4. The processing circuitry 11 determines a picking operation allocation pattern to apply based on the response from the store device 4. Based on the response from the store device 4, the processing circuitry 11 may output an instruction to the store device 4 to allocate a picker required to execute the next-priority picking operation allocation pattern. For example, if the processing circuitry 11 cannot secure resources related to the picking operation allocation pattern with the highest priority, it issues a resource reservation instruction to secure resources related to the next-highest priority picking operation allocation pattern. The processing circuitry 11 issues resource reservation instructions according to the priority of the picking operation allocation patterns (e.g., from high to low), and determines the picking operation allocation pattern to be applied based on the resources that can be secured by the store device 4. The processing circuitry 11 may repeatedly issue resource reservation instructions according to the priority of the picking operation allocation patterns.

[0088] The processing circuit 11 determines whether confirmation of the product information is necessary (ACT16). ACT16 may be processing by the allocation processing unit 115. Confirmation of the product information includes notifying the customer who placed the order of information related to the order. Information related to the order includes, for example, information related to the delivery of the products included in the order. Confirmation of the product information includes, for example, notifying information related to at least one of the delivery time, delivery time slot, and delivery fee. Specific examples include a delivery time of "14:00" and a delivery fee of "1,000 yen."

[0089] If confirmation of the item information is required (ACT16: YES), the process transitions from ACT16 to ACT17. If confirmation of the item information is not required (ACT16: NO), the process transitions from ACT16 to ACT18. For example, the processing circuit 11 determines whether or not a change will occur in the item information (e.g., shipping fee) obtained in the process of ACT6 in FIG. 2. If the processing circuit 11 determines that a change will occur in the item information, it may determine that confirmation of the item information is required. Note that whether or not confirmation of the item information is required may be set by the user. The processing circuit 11 may determine whether or not confirmation of the item information is required based on rules regarding resource allocation, a trained model, or the like.

[0090] The processing circuit 11 confirms the item information (ACT17). ACT17 may be processing by the allocation processing unit 115. In ACT17, for example, the processing circuit 11 outputs a confirmation request indicating confirmation information regarding the item information to the EC server 2. The confirmation information regarding the item information may be information regarding the delivery of the items included in the order when the pattern with the highest priority among the picking work allocation pattern and the delivery work allocation pattern is executed. The EC server 2 outputs the confirmation request to the user terminal 3. The user terminal 3, for example, displays the confirmation information regarding the item information on a display device or the like and provides it to the user of the user terminal 3. The user of the user terminal 3 inputs a response based on the confirmation information regarding the item information. The response is, for example, an instruction indicating approval or denial. The user terminal 3 outputs the response to the EC server 2. The EC server 2 outputs the response to the server 1. The processing circuit 11 confirms information regarding the order based on the response from the EC server 2. Based on the response from the EC server 2, the processing circuitry 11 may output to the EC server 2 information regarding the delivery of the items included in the order when the next-ranked picking work allocation pattern and the delivery work allocation pattern are executed. The processing circuitry 11 may issue a confirmation request according to the priority of the work allocation pattern (e.g., from high to low), and may confirm the information regarding the order based on the response from the EC server 2. The processing circuitry 11 may repeatedly issue a confirmation request according to the priority of the work allocation pattern. Note that the processing circuitry 11 may output information regarding the delivery of the items to the EC server 2 in a selectable manner. For example, the processing circuitry 11 may output to the EC server 2 a confirmation request including multiple candidate delivery times or delivery time slots and multiple candidate delivery fees. In this case, the processing circuitry 11 may repeat the processes of ACT12 to ACT15 according to the response from the EC server 2.

[0091] The processing circuitry 11 confirms the work assignment and issues an execution instruction (ACT18). ACT18 may be processing by the assignment processing unit 115. In ACT18, for example, the processing circuitry 11 confirms the delivery work assignment based on the response from the delivery company device 5 in ACT13. The processing circuitry 11 confirms the picking work assignment based on the response from the store device 4 in ACT15. The processing circuitry 11 confirms information about the order based on the response from the EC server 2 in ACT17. The processing circuitry 11 outputs information indicating the confirmed picking work assignment to the store device 4. The processing circuitry 11 outputs information indicating the confirmed delivery work assignment to the delivery company device 5. The processing circuitry 11 outputs information about the confirmed order to the EC server 2. The EC server 2 outputs information about the order to the user terminal 3.

[0092] According to this example, the server 1 can output a delivery work allocation pattern to the delivery company device 5. The server 1 can output the delivery work allocation pattern according to priority. The server 1 can determine a delivery work allocation pattern to be applied based on a response from the delivery company device 5. The server 1 can output a picking work allocation pattern to the store device 4. The server 1 can output a picking work allocation pattern according to priority. The server 1 can determine a picking work allocation pattern to be applied based on a response from the store device 4. The server 1 can output a confirmation request for order information to the EC server 2. The server 1 can output a confirmation request for order information to the EC server 2 according to priority. The server 1 can confirm the order information based on the response from the EC server 2. Therefore, the server 1 can perform work allocation that can be applied by the delivery company and the store's picker. Furthermore, the server 1 can provide candidate delivery information to the customer via the EC server 2. Therefore, the server 1 can confirm the order according to the customer's needs. The server 1 can execute an optimal work allocation by instructing the store device 4 and the delivery company device 5 to secure resources. This allows the server 1 to optimize the operations in the delivery service. The server 1 can optimize the task allocation across the entire operations in the delivery service.

[0093] (Other embodiments) The information processing device may be realized by a single device such as the server 1, or may be realized by multiple devices with distributed functions. In the latter case, the information processing device also includes the meaning of an information processing system made up of multiple devices.

[0094] The above-described embodiments may be applied not only to an apparatus but also to a method executed by the apparatus. The above-described embodiments may be applied to a program that can cause a computer of the apparatus to execute each function. The above-described embodiments may be applied to a recording medium that stores a program. The above-described embodiments may be applied not only to a system but also to a method executed by multiple elements included in the system.

[0095] The processing circuitry includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes with multiple functions, such as, but not limited to, a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array).

[0096] Each of the one or more circuits constituting the processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs a part of the multiple processes. The part of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be included in a single device or may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0097] The program may be transferred in a state where it is stored in a device, or in a state where it is not stored in a device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or in a state where it is recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The form of the recording medium is not important as long as it is a medium that can store the program and is computer-readable, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card.

[0098] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the above description is merely an example of the present invention in every respect. It goes without saying that various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In other words, when implementing the present invention, specific configurations according to the embodiments may be appropriately adopted.

[0099] In short, this invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and in the implementation stage, the components can be modified and embodied without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in the above-described embodiments. For example, some components may be omitted from all the components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

[0100] (Addendum) The above embodiment may be expressed as follows: (1) An information processing device that assigns tasks to workers in a delivery service that uses a physical store as a delivery base, a product information processing unit that acquires information related to product orders; an accumulation information processing unit that acquires information about an accumulation location of the product; a delivery information processing unit that acquires information related to delivery of the product; a surrounding information processing unit that acquires information about the surrounding conditions of the store; an additional information processing unit that acquires additional information regarding the task assignment; an allocation processing unit that allocates the work based on the information about the order, the information about the collection location, the information about the delivery, the information about the surrounding conditions of the store, and the additional information; An information processing device comprising: (2) The information about the surrounding conditions of the store includes at least one of information about the weather around the store, information about events held around the store, and traffic information around the store. The information processing device described in (1). (3) The additional information includes a request condition for a delivery company that will deliver the product. The information processing device described in (1). (4) The additional information includes at least one of a restriction on a picker who performs a picking operation at the store and a restriction on a delivery company who collects the product at the store. The information processing device described in (1). (5) The allocation processing unit allocates the tasks so as to optimize at least one of the number of people required for the picking task, the time required for picking, the picking cost, the number of people required for the delivery task, the time required for delivery, and the delivery fee. The information processing device described in (1). (6) An information processing program for assigning tasks to workers in a delivery service that uses a physical store as a delivery base, To the computer The ability to retrieve information about product orders; a function of acquiring information about a collection location of the product; a function of obtaining information regarding delivery of the product; The function to obtain information about the surrounding area of the store, acquiring additional information regarding the assignment of the work; a function of allocating the work based on the information about the order, the information about the collection location, the information about the delivery, the information about the surrounding conditions of the store, and the additional information; An information processing program capable of executing the above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 1...server, 2...EC server, 3...user terminal, 4...store equipment, 5...delivery company equipment, 11...processing circuit, 12...main memory, 13...auxiliary storage device, 14...communication interface, 100...business support system, 110...item information processing unit, 111...accumulation information processing unit, 112...delivery information processing unit, 113...peripheral information processing unit, 114...additional information processing unit, 115...allocation processing unit.

Claims

1. An information processing device that assigns work to workers in a delivery service that uses a physical store as a delivery base, a product information processing unit that acquires information related to product orders; an accumulation information processing unit that acquires information about an accumulation location of the product; a delivery information processing unit that acquires information related to delivery of the product; a surrounding information processing unit that acquires information about the surrounding conditions of the store; an additional information processing unit that acquires additional information regarding the task assignment; an allocation processing unit that allocates the work based on the information about the order, the information about the collection location, the information about the delivery, the information about the surrounding conditions of the store, and the additional information; An information processing device comprising:

2. The information about the surrounding conditions of the store includes at least one of information about the weather around the store, information about events held around the store, and traffic information around the store. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The additional information includes a request condition for a delivery company that will deliver the product. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. The additional information includes at least one of a restriction on a picker who performs a picking operation at the store and a restriction on a delivery company who collects the products at the store. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

5. the allocation processing unit allocates the work so as to optimize at least one of the number of people required for the picking work, the time required for picking, the picking cost, the number of people required for the delivery work, the time required for delivery, and the delivery fee; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

6. An information processing program for assigning tasks to workers in a delivery service that uses a physical store as a delivery base, To the computer The ability to retrieve information about product orders; a function of acquiring information about a collection location of the product; a function of obtaining information regarding delivery of the product; The function to obtain information about the surrounding area of the store, acquiring additional information regarding the assignment of the work; a function of allocating the work based on the information about the order, the information about the collection location, the information about the delivery, the information about the surrounding conditions of the store, and the additional information; An information processing program capable of executing the above.

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