Information processing device, information processing system and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device, an information processing system and a program which can promote use of points by a customer, and support abatement of stagnation points.SOLUTION: An information processing device comprises identification means, calculation means, and provision means. The identification means identifies held points corresponding to customer identification information of a customer who purchases commodities, from a storage unit which holds the held points in association with customer identification information. The calculation means performs calculation for increasing the identified held points by a predetermined method, when date and time when the commodities are purchased are included in a predetermined period. The provision means provides the held points increased by the method, as use points which the customer can use.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, stores such as supermarkets and convenience stores have provided various services. For example, a service system has been implemented in which points are awarded according to the purchase amount when a customer purchases a product or other sales item. The awarded points can be used in place of cash in subsequent transactions, for example.

[0003] Incidentally, as part of sales promotion activities, stores sometimes offer more points than usual when certain conditions (such as a specific day of the week, date, or period) are met. However, even when such sales promotion activities are carried out, it is known that customers tend to acquire points but not use them. Therefore, there is a possibility that the number of points remaining unused (hereinafter also referred to as "stayed points") may increase. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an information processing device, an information processing system, and a program that can encourage customers to use points and support a reduction in accumulated points. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An information processing device according to an embodiment includes an identification unit, a calculation unit, and a provision unit. The identification unit identifies the owned points corresponding to the customer identification information of a customer who purchases a product from a storage unit that stores owned points in association with the customer identification information. The calculation unit performs a calculation to increase the identified owned points using a predetermined method if the date and time of the product purchase falls within a predetermined period. The provision unit provides the owned points increased by the method as redemption points that can be used by the customer. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a store server according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the point server according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of a point information section according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing executed by the information processing system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiment, a point server will be described as an example of an information processing device. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

[0008] First, let us explain the point system. The point system is a system in which a certain number of points (for example, 1 point) are awarded to customers who have become members (hereinafter simply referred to as members) for a certain purchase amount (for example, 100 yen). When points are awarded, the points held by the member are accumulated. Meanwhile, members can also use their held points.

[0009] As an example of how points can be used, 1 point is converted to 1 yen and can be used as part of the cost of purchasing a product. The member informs the store clerk of the number of points they wish to use (hereinafter referred to as the number of points used), and the store clerk enters the number of points informed by the member into the POS terminal. In this way, the member can use their points.

[0010] It should be noted that points may be used by exchanging a predetermined number of points for a prize (for example, a gift certificate). In this case, when points are used, the number of points held is reduced by the number of points used.

[0011] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system S according to an embodiment. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the electrical connections between a POS terminal 1, a store server 4, and a point server 6. As shown in Fig. 1, the information processing system S includes a plurality of POS terminals 1, a store server 4, and a point server 6.

[0012] The POS terminal 1 and the store server 4 are installed in the store T. A plurality of POS terminals 1 are installed in the store T. Each POS terminal 1 is electrically connected to the store server 4 via a communication line 2 such as a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0013] The point server 6 is installed outside the store T (for example, at the headquarters or a card company). The point server 6 is electrically connected to the store server 4 via a communication line 5 such as a dedicated line or a public line. The point server 6 is also electrically connected to each POS terminal 1 via a communication line 3 such as a dedicated line or a public line.

[0014] The number of POS terminals 1 installed in the store T may be one or more.

[0015] The POS terminal 1 executes sales registration processing and settlement processing for merchandise sold in the store T. The sales registration processing includes the following processing: In other words, the sales registration processing includes processing for optically reading a code symbol such as a barcode attached to the merchandise to be sold in a transaction with a customer to acquire a merchandise code.

[0016] The sales registration process also includes a process of displaying the product name (name), unit price, etc. (collectively referred to as product information) of the product read from product master 142 (see FIG. 2) based on the acquired product code. The sales registration process also includes a product registration process of storing the product information, etc. of the product in product information section 131 (see FIG. 2).

[0017] The settlement process includes the following processes: based on the product information stored in the product information unit 131, the settlement process includes the process of calculating the total amount of the products for which sales registration processing has been performed, the amount of tax on the transaction, and the process of displaying the total amount of the settlement including tax, the total amount of the product and the amount of tax.

[0018] The payment process also includes processes such as calculating and displaying change based on the deposit received from the customer, instructing the change dispenser to issue change, and issuing a receipt with product information and payment information (total amount, tax amount, deposit amount, change amount, etc.) printed on it.

[0019] Note that one transaction is defined as the period from the start of sales registration processing to the end of payment processing for one customer. Product information and payment information for the products for which payment has been processed (hereinafter referred to as "sales information") are stored in the sales information section 143 (see FIG. 2).

[0020] When a predetermined time arrives or when the settlement key 212 (see FIG. 2) is operated (in this embodiment, this is assumed to be when the settlement key 212 is operated), the POS terminal 1 generates settlement information for the POS terminal 1 based on the sales information stored in the sales information section 143. The settlement information refers to sales information of products sold during a predetermined period (for example, one day) that has been compiled for each predetermined group, such as by product category or by time period.

[0021] The POS terminal 1 transmits the generated settlement information to the store server. The POS terminal 1 also communicates with the point server 6 regarding the points used by the member. That is, the POS terminal 1 inquires of the point server 6 about the usage points that represent the number of points currently available for use by the member.

[0022] The POS terminal 1 also receives a response to the inquiry about the points used from the point server 6. The POS terminal 1 also transmits information indicating the number of points used by the member to the point server 6. The POS terminal 1 also receives a usage response from the point server 6 in response to the transmission of the number of points used. The usage response is a response indicating that the point server 6 has subtracted the number of deduction points from the points held by the member. The number of deduction points will be described later.

[0023] The store server 4 collects payment information from each POS terminal 1 in the store T and stores it in the payment information unit 443 (see FIG. 3). The store server 4 also transmits product master information to each POS terminal 1. The store server 4 also transmits member ID (Identification) information that identifies a member to each POS terminal 1.

[0024] The point server 6 stores the total number of points held by a member in the point information section 642 (see FIG. 4) in association with the member ID that identifies the member. The member ID is an example of customer identification information. In addition, when the POS terminal 1 inquires about the points used by the member, the point server 6 calculates the points used by the member.

[0025] In this embodiment, the points to be used are normally the same as the value of the points held by the member stored in the point information section 642. However, during a campaign period set in advance by the store, for members who meet certain conditions, the points to be used are the value obtained by multiplying the held points by a predetermined multiplier (hereinafter also referred to as the predetermined multiplier) set in advance.

[0026] In response to an inquiry about usage points from the POS terminal 1, the point server 6 responds to the POS terminal 1 with the calculated owned points. Furthermore, when the point server 6 receives information indicating the number of usage points used by the member from the POS terminal 1, it calculates the number of deduction points to actually be subtracted from the usage points based on the number of used points. Then, the point server 6 sends to the POS terminal 1 a usage response indicating that it has executed the point deduction process of subtracting the number of deduction points from the owned points.

[0027] Next, we will explain the hardware configuration of the POS terminal 1. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the POS terminal 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the POS terminal 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a memory unit 14, etc.

[0028] The CPU 11 is the main controller. The ROM 12 stores various programs. The RAM 13 expands the programs and various data. The memory unit 14 stores various programs. The CPU 11, ROM 12, RAM 13, and memory unit 14 are connected to one another via a bus 15.

[0029] The CPU 11, the ROM 12, and the RAM 13 constitute the control unit 100. That is, the control unit 100 executes control processing, which will be described later, by the CPU 11 operating in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM 12 or the memory unit 14 and loaded into the RAM 13.

[0030] The RAM 13 includes a storage unit, ie, a product information unit 131. The product information unit 131 stores product information (product name, product unit price, etc.) of a product for which sales registration processing has been performed based on a product code acquired from a code symbol read by the code reading unit 26.

[0031] The memory unit 14 is composed of non-volatile memory such as an HDD (Hard Disc Drive) or flash memory, which retains stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program unit 141 that stores control programs, a product master 142, a sales information unit 143, and a member ID unit 144.

[0032] The product master 142 stores product information for each product in association with a product code that identifies the product. The sales information section 143 stores product information and payment information for products sold in transactions that have been processed for payment. The member ID section 144 reads and stores member IDs from member cards owned by members.

[0033] In addition, the control unit 100 is connected to an operation unit 21, an operator display unit 22, a customer display unit 23, a printing unit 24, a card reading unit 25, and a code reading unit 26 via a bus 15 and a controller 16. The operation unit 21 is equipped with a settlement key 211 and a payment key 212.

[0034] The settlement key 211 is a key that is operated when completing a transaction. The payment key 212 is a key that is operated when generating payment information. The operator display unit 22 is composed of, for example, an LCD display, and displays information to the operator. The customer display unit 23 is composed of, for example, an LCD display, and displays information to the customer. The printing unit 24 prints product information and payment information for the transacted product on receipt paper for a transaction that has been processed for payment.

[0035] The card reader 25 electrically or magnetically reads the member ID stored on the member card issued to the member. The code reader 26 optically reads a symbol attached to a product, including a code (e.g., a product code) that identifies the product. Note that an image reader that optically reads an image of the product may be used instead of the code reader 26.

[0036] The controller 16 receives instructions from the control unit 100 and controls the operation unit 21, the operator display unit 22, the customer display unit 23, the printing unit 24, the card reading unit 25, and the code reading unit 26. However, for convenience of explanation, the control performed by the controller 16 will be described as being performed by the control unit 100.

[0037] The control unit 100 is also connected to a communication unit 27 via a bus 15. The communication unit 27 is electrically connected to other POS terminals 1 installed in the store and the store server 4 via a communication line 2. The control unit 100 is also connected to a communication unit 28 via the bus 15. The communication unit 28 is electrically connected to the point server 6 via a communication line 3.

[0038] Next, we will explain the hardware configuration of the store server 4. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the store server 4. As shown in Fig. 3, the store server 4 includes a CPU 41, a ROM 42, a RAM 43, a memory unit 44, etc.

[0039] The CPU 41 is the main controller. The ROM 42 stores various programs. The RAM 43 expands the programs and various data. The memory unit 44 stores various programs. The CPU 41, ROM 42, RAM 43, and memory unit 44 are connected to one another via a bus 45.

[0040] The CPU 41, the ROM 42, and the RAM 43 constitute the control unit 400. That is, the control unit 400 executes control processing, which will be described later, by the CPU 41 operating in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM 42 or the memory unit 44 and loaded into the RAM 43.

[0041] The memory unit 44 is composed of a non-volatile memory such as an HDD or flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program unit 441 that stores control programs, a member master 442, and a settlement information unit 443.

[0042] The member master 442 stores information about customers who are members (member ID, member name, address, family composition, etc.) for each member. The settlement information unit 443 stores settlement information received from each POS terminal 1 in the store T.

[0043] The control unit 400 is also connected to an operation unit 47 and a display unit 48 via a bus 45 and a controller 46. The control unit 400 is also connected to a communication unit 49 via the bus 45. The communication unit 49 is electrically connected to each POS terminal 1 via a communication line 2. The control unit 400 is also connected to a communication unit 50 via the bus 45. The communication unit 50 is electrically connected to a point server 6 via a communication line 5.

[0044] Next, we will explain the hardware configuration of the point server 6. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the point server 6. As shown in Fig. 4, the point server 6 includes a CPU 61, a ROM 62, a RAM 63, a memory unit 64, etc.

[0045] The CPU 61 is the main controller. The ROM 62 stores various programs. The RAM 63 expands the programs and various data. The memory unit 64 stores various programs. The CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, and memory unit 64 are connected to one another via a bus 65.

[0046] The CPU 61, the ROM 62, and the RAM 63 constitute the control unit 600. That is, the control unit 600 executes control processing, which will be described later, by the CPU 61 operating in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM 62 or the memory unit 64 and loaded into the RAM 63.

[0047] The memory unit 64 is configured with a non-volatile memory such as an HDD or flash memory that retains stored information even when the power is turned off, and includes a control program unit 641 that stores a control program, and a point information unit 642. The point information unit 642 stores information on points held by members. The point information unit 642 is an example of a memory unit.

[0048] The control unit 600 is also connected to an operation unit 67 and a display unit 68 via a bus 65 and a controller 66. The control unit 600 is also connected to a communication unit 69 via the bus 65. The communication unit 69 is electrically connected to each POS terminal 1 via a communication line 3. The control unit 600 is also connected to a communication unit 70 via the bus 65. The communication unit 70 is electrically connected to the store server 4 via a communication line 5.

[0049] Next, we will explain the configuration of the point information section 642 stored in the memory section 64. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the point information section 642. As shown in Fig. 5, the point information section 642 has a member ID section 6421, a member information section 6422, and an owned points section 6423.

[0050] The member ID section 6421 stores a member ID that identifies a member. The member ID is, for example, a member code. The member information section 6422 stores information (name, address, age, family composition, etc.) of the member identified by the member ID. The held points section 6423 stores held points, which are the number of points held by the member identified by the member ID.

[0051] Next, a description will be given of the functions of the information processing system S. FIG.

[0052] First, we will explain the functions of the POS terminal 1. The control unit 100 of the POS terminal 1 functions as a point inquiry means 101, a point receiving means 102, a usage acceptance means 103, a point usage means 104, and a point output means 105 by following the control programs stored in the ROM 12 or the control program unit 141 of the memory unit 14.

[0053] The point inquiry means 101 executes point inquiry to inquire about points.

[0054] For example, if a member who has purchased a product wishes to use points in the transaction, the store clerk operates the POS terminal 1 to declare the use of points (for example, by operating a key to use points). The point inquiry means 101 transmits a point inquiry to the point server 6 inquiring about the currently available points that the member can use, including the member ID of the member.

[0055] The point receiving means 102 receives a point inquiry response, which is a response to the point inquiry. For example, the point receiving means 102 receives a point inquiry response indicating the number of points used by the member who is the subject of the point inquiry (hereinafter also referred to as the target member) from the point server 6 via the communication unit 28 and the communication line 3.

[0056] The use acceptance means 103 accepts the number of points used in a transaction. For example, a store clerk informs a member who has purchased a product of the points to be used and confirms the number of points the member wishes to use. The store clerk performs key operations to input the number of points. The use acceptance means 103 accepts the input number of points as the number of points to be used.

[0057] The point use means 104 executes a point use process for using points. The point use means 104 is an example of a providing means. For example, the point use means 104 transmits a point use request to the point server 6, the request including the member ID of the target member and the number of use points accepted by the use acceptance means 103.

[0058] Furthermore, for example, after receiving a usage response transmitted from the point server 6 as a response to the point usage request, the point using means 104 executes a settlement process based on the number of points used.

[0059] Specifically, the point using means 104 executes the payment process by subtracting the value obtained by converting the number of points used into a monetary amount (for example, converting the amount into a monetary amount assuming 1 point = 1 yen) from the purchase price of the product. Existing payment methods such as cash payment, credit card payment, electronic money payment, and code payment can be used as the payment method. The payment process may also be executed by the point server 6.

[0060] The point output means 105 outputs information indicating the points used.

[0061] For example, the point output means 105 controls the printing unit 24 to print information indicating the points to be used, which is included in the usage request response sent in response to the point usage request, on a receipt. Specifically, if there is a difference in the points to be used during a campaign period and outside of the period, the point output means 105 prints the points to be used during the period and the points to be used outside of the period on the receipt.

[0062] Next, we will explain the functions of the point server 6. The control unit 600 of the point server 6 functions as a point specification means 601, a determination means 602, a calculation means 603, an inquiry response means 604, a point calculation means 605, and a usage response means 606 by following the control programs stored in the ROM 62 or the control program section 641 of the memory section 64.

[0063] The point identification means 601 identifies the points held by the member.

[0064] For example, the point identification means 601 receives a point inquiry response including the member ID of the target member from the POS terminal 1 via the communication unit 70 and the communication line 3. The point identification means 601 refers to the point information unit 642 and identifies the owned points corresponding to the member ID included in the point inquiry as the owned points of the target member.

[0065] The determination means 602 determines whether to perform calculation processing to increase the use points. For example, the determination means 602 determines whether the date and time of the transaction falls within a predetermined campaign period, and if it does fall within the campaign period, determines to perform calculation processing to increase the use points. The campaign period is determined arbitrarily by the store. Note that the campaign period may represent a specific date and time (for example, every Wednesday, the 28th of every month, etc.).

[0066] The calculation means 603 performs a calculation process to increase the points to be used. For example, when the determination means 602 determines that a calculation process to increase the points to be used is to be performed, the calculation means 603 performs a process to multiply the points held by the target member identified by the point identification means 601 by a predetermined magnification.

[0067] The calculation process for increasing the use points is not limited to the above method. For example, the calculation means 603 may perform a process for uniformly adding a predetermined value to the owned points as the calculation process for increasing the use points.

[0068] The inquiry response means 604 transmits an inquiry response. For example, if the determination means 602 determines not to perform calculation processing to increase the usage points, the inquiry response means 604 transmits an inquiry response to the POS terminal 1, assuming the owned points identified by the point identification means 601 as the usage points of the target member.

[0069] Furthermore, for example, when the calculation means 603 performs a process of multiplying the points held by the target member by a predetermined magnification, the inquiry response means 604 determines whether to respond with the calculation result of the calculation means 603 as points to be used.

[0070] As an example, if the calculation result by the calculation means 603 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (hereinafter also referred to as the predetermined threshold), the inquiry response means 604 determines to respond with the calculation result by the calculation means 603 as usage points. In this case, the inquiry response means 604 transmits an inquiry response to the POS terminal 1 with the calculation result by the calculation means 603 as usage points for the target member.

[0071] On the other hand, if the calculation result is less than the predetermined threshold, the inquiry response means 604 determines not to respond with the calculation result of the calculation means 603 as the points to be used. In this case, the inquiry response means 604 transmits an inquiry response to the POS terminal 1 with the owned points identified by the point identification means 601 as the target member's points to be used.

[0072] The inquiry response means 604 may determine whether to respond with the calculation result of the calculation means 603 as the points to be used depending on whether the owned points are equal to or greater than a threshold value, instead of the calculation result of the calculation means 603. The above-mentioned determination process by the inquiry response means 604 may also be executed by the determination means 602.

[0073] As described above, by responding with the calculation result of the increased points to be used as the points to be used only to members who have a certain number of points or more, members who tend to save points without using them can be encouraged to use their points.

[0074] The point calculation means 605 calculates the remaining points that represent the points held by the target member after the points have been used. For example, the point calculation means 605 receives a point use request from the POS terminal 1. The point calculation means 605 calculates the remaining points of the target member based on the member ID of the target member and the number of points used, which are included in the point use request.

[0075] Specifically, the point calculation means 605 refers to the point information section 642 and identifies the owned points associated with the ID of the target member as the owned points of the target member. Then, depending on whether the campaign period is within and the member has responded with the calculation result of the calculation means 603 as the points to be used, the point calculation means 605 subtracts the number of points to be subtracted from the identified owned points to calculate the remaining points.

[0076] For example, in the case of a member who responds with the calculation result of the calculation means 603 as points to be used during the campaign period, the point calculation means 605 calculates the remaining points according to the following calculation formula (1).

[0077] Remaining points = points held - number of points used / predetermined multiplier (1)

[0078] In the calculation formula (1), the number of points used / predetermined multiplier is the number of points to be deducted.

[0079] On the other hand, outside the campaign period or for a member who does not respond with the calculation result of the calculation means 603 as points to be used, the point calculation means 605 calculates the remaining points according to the following calculation formula (2).

[0080] Remaining points = points held - points used... (2)

[0081] In formula (2), the number of points used is the number of points deducted.

[0082] The use response means 606 executes a point subtraction process for subtracting the number of points to be subtracted from the owned points.

[0083] For example, the usage response means 606 stores the remaining points calculated by the point calculation means 605 as the possessed points of the target member in the point information section 642. Specifically, the usage response means 606 searches the member ID section 6421 of the point information section 642 using the member ID of the target member as a key to identify the record of the target member. Then, the usage response means 606 stores the remaining points calculated by the point calculation means 605 in the possessed points section 6423.

[0084] Furthermore, for example, after executing the subtraction process, the usage response means 606 transmits a usage response to the POS terminal 1. The usage response notifies the POS terminal 1 that the subtraction process has been executed. The usage response includes information indicating the remaining points of the target member.

[0085] Furthermore, for example, the usage response means 606 cooperates with the calculation means 603 to calculate the usage points within the campaign period when the value obtained by multiplying the remaining points by a predetermined magnification exceeds the above-mentioned predetermined threshold. In this case, the usage response means 606 transmits to the POS terminal 1 a usage response including information indicating the usage points within the campaign period in addition to the remaining points.

[0086] In other words, the usage response means 606 sends a usage response to the POS terminal 1 that includes information that allows a comparison of the number of points (usage points) that can be used in the next transaction when purchasing a product within the campaign period and when purchasing a product outside the campaign period.

[0087] Below, we will explain the operation of each functional part of the point server 6 using the example where the current date and time is within the campaign period, the specified multiplier is 1.50x, the specified threshold is 500 points, the member has 200 points, and the number of points used is 200 points.

[0088] First, the point identification means 601 receives the point inquiry and determines that the target member has 200 points from the member ID included in the point inquiry and the point information section 642. Next, the determination means 602 determines that a calculation process to increase the points to be used is to be performed because it is within the campaign period. Next, the calculation means 603 multiplies 200 points by a predetermined multiplier of 1.50 (200 x 1.50 = 300 points).

[0089] Next, the inquiry response means 604 compares the calculation result of the calculation means 603, 300 points, with the predetermined threshold of 500 points, and since the calculation result is less than 500 points, it sends an inquiry response to the POS terminal 1 with 200 points, which are the owned points identified by the point identification means 601, as the points to be used.

[0090] Next, the point calculation means 605 receives a point use request including information indicating that the number of used points is 200 from the POS terminal 1, and calculates the remaining points as 200-200=0 points according to the above formula (2). In this case, since the value obtained by multiplying the remaining points by the predetermined magnification is less than the predetermined threshold, the use response means 606 sends a use response to the POS terminal 1 including information indicating that the remaining points are 0 points.

[0091] Then, the point output means 105 of the POS terminal 1 that has received the usage response from the point server 6 controls the printing unit 24 to print on the receipt a statement indicating that the remaining points are 0 points.

[0092] As another example, we will explain the operation of each functional part of the point server 6 when the current date and time is within the campaign period, the specified multiplier is 1.50x, the specified threshold is 500 points, the member's owned points are 1200 points, and the number of points used is 500 points.

[0093] First, the point identification means 601 receives the point inquiry and determines that the target member has 1200 points from the member ID included in the point inquiry and the point information section 642. Next, the determination means 602 determines that a calculation process to increase the points to be used is to be performed because it is within the campaign period. Next, the calculation means 603 multiplies 1200 points by a predetermined multiplier of 1.50 (1200 x 1.50 = 1800 points).

[0094] Next, the inquiry response means 604 compares the calculation result of the calculation means 603, 1800 points, with the predetermined threshold value of 500 points, and since the calculation result is greater than or equal to 500 points, it sends an inquiry response to the POS terminal 1 with the calculation result of the calculation means 603, 1800 points, as the points to be used.

[0095] Next, the point calculation means 605 receives a point usage request including information indicating that the number of points used is 500 from the POS terminal 1, and calculates the remaining points as 1200-500 / 1.50≒867 points according to the above calculation formula (1).

[0096] In this case, since the value obtained by multiplying the remaining points by a predetermined multiplier is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the usage response means 606 sends a usage response to the POS terminal 1 that includes information indicating that the remaining points are 867 points and that the number of points available for use during the campaign period will be 867 x 1.50 ≒ 1291 points.

[0097] Then, the point output means 105 of the POS terminal 1, which has received the usage response from the point server 6, controls the printing unit 24 to print on the receipt a statement indicating that the remaining points are 867 points and that the available points will be 1291 points within the campaign period.

[0098] Next, we will explain the processing of the information processing system S. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the information processing system S. As a premise, at the start of Figure 7, the product registration processing for the product purchased by the member has been completed, and the store clerk has performed key operations to use points.

[0099] First, the point inquiry means 101 of the control unit 100 of the POS terminal 1 transmits a point inquiry (step ST1). For example, the point inquiry means 101 transmits a point inquiry including the member ID of the target member to the point server 6 via the communication unit 28 and the communication line 3. After step ST1, the processing of the control unit 100 of the POS terminal 1 proceeds to processing of step ST9, which will be described later.

[0100] Next, the point identification means 601 of the control unit 600 of the point server 6 receives the point inquiry (step ST2). For example, the point identification means 601 receives the point inquiry sent from the POS terminal 1 in step ST1 via the communication unit 70 and the communication line 3.

[0101] Next, the point identification means 601 identifies the points held by the target member (step ST3). For example, the point identification means 601 refers to the point information section 642 and identifies the points held corresponding to the member ID included in the point inquiry received in step ST2. The point identification means 601 identifies the identified points held as the points held by the target member.

[0102] Next, the determination means 602 determines whether the date and time of the transaction is within the campaign period (step ST4). For example, if the current time falls within a predetermined period, the determination means 602 determines that the date and time of the transaction is within the campaign period. On the other hand, if the current time does not fall within the predetermined period, the determination means 602 determines that the date and time of the transaction is outside the campaign period.

[0103] If it is outside the campaign period (step ST4: No), the processing by the control unit 600 of the point server 6 proceeds to step ST8, which will be described later. On the other hand, if it is within the campaign period (step ST4: Yes), the calculation means 603 executes a calculation process to increase the usage points (step ST5). For example, the calculation means 603 executes a process to multiply the owned points identified in step ST2 by a predetermined magnification.

[0104] Next, the inquiry response means 604 determines whether the increased usage points are equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (step ST6). For example, the inquiry response means 604 determines whether the calculation result by the calculation means 603 in step ST5 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. If it is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold (step ST6: Yes), the inquiry response means 604 transmits an inquiry response to the POS terminal 1 with the calculation result in step ST5 as usage points (step ST7).

[0105] On the other hand, if the number is less than the predetermined threshold (step ST6: No), the inquiry response means 604 sends an inquiry response to the POS terminal 1 using the owned points identified in step ST2 as the points to be used (step ST8). After step ST7 or ST8, the processing by the control unit 600 of the point server 6 proceeds to step ST12, which will be described later.

[0106] Next, the point receiving means 102 of the control unit 100 of the POS terminal 1 receives the inquiry response (step ST9). For example, the point receiving means 102 receives the inquiry response transmitted from the point server 6 in step ST7 or ST8 via the communication unit 28 and the communication line 3.

[0107] Next, the use acceptance means 103 accepts the number of points used (step ST10). For example, the use acceptance means 103 accepts a value input by a store clerk using operation keys or the like as the number of points used.

[0108] Next, the point use means 104 transmits a point use request (step ST11). For example, the point use means 104 transmits a point use request including the member ID of the target member and information indicating the number of points used accepted in step ST10 to the point server 6. After step ST11, the processing of the control unit 100 of the POS terminal 1 proceeds to processing of step ST15, which will be described later.

[0109] Next, the point calculation means 605 of the control unit 600 of the point server 6 receives the point use request (step ST12). For example, the point calculation means 605 receives the point use request transmitted from the POS terminal 1 in step ST11.

[0110] Next, the point calculation means 605 calculates the remaining points (step ST13). For example, when the point calculation means 605 transmits the inquiry response with the calculation result as the usage points in step ST7, the point calculation means 605 calculates the remaining points from the information indicating the number of usage points included in the point usage request received in step ST12 and the above-mentioned calculation formula (1).

[0111] Also, for example, when the point calculation means 605 sends an inquiry response in step 8 using the owned points as the points to be used, it calculates the remaining points from the information indicating the number of points to be used contained in the point usage request received in step ST12 and the above-mentioned calculation formula (2).

[0112] Next, the usage response means 606 transmits a usage response (step ST14), and the control unit 600 of the point server 6 ends this process. For example, the usage response means 606 performs a subtraction process. After that, if the usage response means 606 transmitted an inquiry response in step 8 using the owned points as usage points, it transmits a usage response including information indicating the remaining points calculated in step ST13 to the POS terminal 1.

[0113] Furthermore, for example, when the use response means 606 transmits the inquiry response with the calculation result as the usage points in step ST7, it cooperates with the calculation means 603 to determine whether the value obtained by multiplying the remaining points calculated in step ST13 by a predetermined magnification is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. If the value is less than the predetermined threshold, the use response means 606 transmits a use response including information indicating the remaining points calculated in step ST13 to the POS terminal 1.

[0114] On the other hand, if the number is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold, the usage response means 606 sends a usage response to the POS terminal 1 including information indicating the remaining points and information indicating that the number of available points during the campaign period will be the value obtained by multiplying the remaining points calculated in step ST13 by a predetermined multiplier.

[0115] Next, the point using means 104 receives the usage application (step ST15). For example, the point using means 104 receives the usage response sent from the point server 6 in step ST14.

[0116] Next, the point using means 104 executes the payment process (step ST16). For example, the point using means 104, in accordance with the operation of the store clerk, performs the payment process by subtracting the amount obtained by converting the number of points used received in step ST10 from the purchase amount of the product.

[0117] Next, the point output means 105 prints information indicating the points used on the receipt (step ST17), and the control unit 100 of the POS terminal 1 ends this process.

[0118] For example, if a usage response including information indicating the remaining points is received in step ST16, the point output means 105 controls the printing unit 24 to print the information indicating the remaining points on a receipt.

[0119] Also, for example, if a usage response is received in step ST16 that includes information indicating the remaining points and information indicating that the number of available points during the campaign period will be the value obtained by multiplying the remaining points calculated in step ST13 by a predetermined multiplier, the point output means 105 controls the printing unit 24 to print on a receipt the information indicating the remaining points and information indicating that the number of available points during the campaign period will be the value obtained by multiplying the remaining points calculated in step ST13 by a predetermined multiplier.

[0120] As described above, the information processing system S of the embodiment identifies the owned points corresponding to the member ID of the member who purchases the product from the point information unit 642, which stores owned points in association with the member ID, and if the date and time of the product purchase falls within a specified campaign period, multiplies the identified owned points by a specified multiplier and provides the owned points multiplied by the specified multiplier as usage points that the member can use.

[0121] Generally, stores award points to members based on the purchase amount of merchandise. However, it is known that there are members who accumulate points without using them. In general, an increase in accumulated points may cause disadvantages to the store, for example, as they may be treated as liabilities at the time of settlement, and therefore it is considered preferable to reduce accumulated points. For this reason, stores sometimes conduct promotional campaigns to increase the number of points awarded and encourage members to use their points. However, it is known that even if such campaigns are conducted, there will still be a certain number of members who do not use their points. Therefore, even if such campaigns are conducted, there is a possibility that point use will not be promoted and accumulated points will not be reduced.

[0122] In contrast, when using the information processing system S according to this embodiment, during a campaign period, members can use points in excess of their own points when purchasing products. This allows the information processing system S according to this embodiment to encourage members to use their points. In other words, the information processing system S according to this embodiment can encourage members to use their points and help reduce accumulated points.

[0123] Furthermore, when the value obtained by multiplying the owned points by a predetermined magnification is equal to or greater than a threshold, the information processing system S according to this embodiment provides the owned points multiplied by the predetermined magnification as usable points that can be used by the member. This makes it possible to encourage members who are accumulating points without using them, which is causing an increase in accumulated points, to use their points.

[0124] Furthermore, if the value obtained by multiplying the remaining points by a predetermined magnification exceeds a predetermined threshold, the information processing system S according to this embodiment controls the printing of information indicating the remaining points and the number of points available for use during the campaign period on the receipt. This allows members to easily compare the number of points available for use during normal times with the number of points available for use during the campaign period.

[0125] The above-described embodiment can be modified as needed by changing some of the configurations or functions of the devices that make up the information processing system S. Therefore, some modifications of the above-described embodiment will be described below as other embodiments. The following mainly describes differences from the above-described embodiment, and detailed descriptions of commonalities with the content already described will be omitted. The modifications described below may be implemented individually or in appropriate combination.

[0126] (Variation 1) In the above-described embodiment, the calculation means 603 performs calculations to increase the number of owned points during the campaign period regardless of the number of owned points. In this modified example, the calculation means 603 performs calculations to increase the number of owned points during the campaign period if the number of owned points is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and does not perform calculations to increase the number of owned points if the number of owned points is less than the predetermined threshold.

[0127] In this modification, the calculation means 603 determines whether the owned points identified by the point identification means 601 are equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. If the owned points are equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold, the calculation means 603 performs a calculation to multiply the owned points by a predetermined magnification. On the other hand, if the owned points are less than the predetermined threshold, the calculation means 603 does not perform this calculation.

[0128] If the number of owned points is less than the predetermined threshold, the calculation means 603 may perform a calculation to multiply the number of owned points by one.

[0129] Furthermore, when the calculation means 603 performs a calculation to multiply the owned points by a predetermined magnification, the inquiry response means 604 of this modified example transmits an inquiry response to the POS terminal 1 using the calculation result by the calculation means 603 as the points to be used. On the other hand, when the calculation means 603 does not perform a calculation to multiply the owned points by a predetermined magnification, the inquiry response transmits an inquiry response to the POS terminal 1 using the owned points identified by the point identification means 601 as the points to be used.

[0130] According to this modified example, it is not necessary to perform calculations to increase the owned points for members who are not targets for increasing their owned points (members who are less affected by the increase in accumulated points).

[0131] (Variation 2) In the above-described embodiment, the point server 6 has a point specifying means 601, a determining means 602, a calculating means 603, an inquiry responding means 604, and a point calculating means 605. In this modified example, a form will be described in which the control unit 100 of the POS terminal 1 executes processes corresponding to these functional units.

[0132] In this modification, the control unit 100 of the POS terminal 1 acquires information indicating the points held by the target member from an external device such as the point server 6, and identifies the points held by the target member. Next, the control unit 100 determines whether to execute a process to multiply the points held by the target member by a predetermined multiplier. If it is determined that the process to multiply the points held by the target member by the predetermined multiplier should be executed, the control unit 100 executes the process to multiply the points held by the target member by the predetermined multiplier.

[0133] Next, when the control unit 100 performs a process of multiplying the target member's owned points by a predetermined magnification, it determines whether the calculation result of this process is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. If the calculation result is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold, the control unit 100 sets the calculation result as the points to be used. If the calculation result is less than the threshold, the control unit 100 sets the identified owned points as the points to be used.

[0134] Next, the usage acceptance means 103 accepts the number of points to be used according to the input by the store clerk. The point usage means 104 calculates the remaining points based on the identified owned points, the accepted number of points to be used, and the above-mentioned calculation formula (1) or (2). The point usage means 104 also transmits to the point server 6 a control command instructing the execution of a subtraction process, which includes the member ID of the target member and information indicating the target member's remaining points.

[0135] According to this modification, the processing load on the point server 6 can be reduced.

[0136] In this modified example, part of the processing described as being executed by the control unit 100 may be executed by the point server 6.

[0137] In addition, the programs executed by the POS terminal 1 and point server 6 of the embodiment are provided as files in an installable or executable format recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk).

[0138] The programs executed by the POS terminal 1 and the point server 6 of the embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. The programs executed by the POS terminal 1 of the embodiment may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0139] Furthermore, the programs executed by the POS terminal 1 and the point server 6 of the embodiment may be provided by being pre-installed in a ROM or the like.

[0140] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the inventions and their equivalents as set forth in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0141] 1 POS terminal 4. Store Server 6 Point Server 100 control section 101 Point inquiry method 102 Point Receiving Method 103 Acceptance method 104 Points Usage Method 105 point output means 143 Sales Information Department 144 Member ID Department 400 control section 443 Settlement Information Department 600 control section 601 Point Identification Method 602 Judgment means 603 Calculation means 604 Inquiry response means 605 Point Calculation Method 606 Response Methods Used 642 Point Information Department [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0142] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-13623

Claims

1. an identification means for identifying the points corresponding to the customer identification information of the customer who purchases the product from a storage unit that associates the customer with the customer identification information that can identify the customer and stores the points that indicate the balance of points granted to the customer; a calculation means for performing a calculation to increase the identified owned points in a predetermined manner when the purchase date and time of the purchase of the product falls within a predetermined period; a providing means for providing the owned points identified by the identifying means as use points that can be used by the customer in a transaction on the date and time of purchase, and for providing the owned points increased by the calculating means as use points if the date and time of purchase is within a predetermined period; An information processing device comprising:

2. The calculation means multiplies the identified owned points by a predetermined factor if the purchase date and time falls within a predetermined period. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The providing means provides the held points increased by the calculating means as the use points when the held points increased by the calculating means are equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and provides the held points identified by the identifying means as the use points when the held points are less than the threshold. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. The device further includes an output control unit that outputs the number of points available for the next transaction in a state that allows comparison between when the product is purchased within the predetermined period and when the product is purchased outside the predetermined period. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

5. an identification means for identifying the points corresponding to the customer identification information of the customer who purchases the product from a storage unit that associates the customer with the customer identification information that can identify the customer and stores the points that indicate the balance of points granted to the customer; a calculation means for performing a calculation to increase the identified owned points in a predetermined manner when the purchase date and time of the purchase of the product falls within a predetermined period; a providing means for providing the owned points identified by the identifying means as use points that can be used by the customer in a transaction on the date and time of purchase, and for providing the owned points increased by the calculating means as use points if the date and time of purchase is within a predetermined period; An information processing system comprising:

6. Computer, an identification means for identifying the points corresponding to the customer identification information of the customer who purchases the product from a storage unit that associates the customer with the customer identification information that can identify the customer and stores the points that indicate the balance of points granted to the customer; a calculation means for performing a calculation to increase the identified owned points in a predetermined manner when the purchase date and time of the purchase of the product falls within a predetermined period; a providing means for providing the owned points identified by the identifying means as use points that can be used by the customer in a transaction on the date and time of purchase, and for providing the owned points increased by the calculating means as use points if the date and time of purchase is within a predetermined period; A program that functions as a

Images