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

Abstract

To improve the usability of mobile messengers. [Solution] The information processing device according to the present invention comprises a receiving unit, an evaluation unit, and a providing unit. The receiving unit receives posted information from official accounts that meet predetermined conditions, which are business accounts established on a mobile messenger application. The evaluation unit evaluates the official accounts based on behavioral information that shows the actions of news site users regarding posted information published on the news site. When the providing unit receives a search request for an official account from a user of the mobile messenger application, it provides information on official accounts that have a relatively high evaluation by the evaluation unit as official accounts that match the search request.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as one of the communication tools available on mobile communication terminals, mobile messengers have been widely used. For example, in relation to mobile messengers, technologies such as transmitting voice messages between chat participants using a mobile messenger have also been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the conventional technology has room for improvement in enhancing the usability of mobile messengers.

[0005] This application has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to improve the usability of mobile messengers.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing device according to this application comprises a receiving unit, an evaluation unit, and a providing unit. The receiving unit receives posted information from official accounts, which are business accounts established on a mobile messenger application, that meet predetermined conditions. The evaluation unit evaluates official accounts based on behavioral information indicating the actions of news site users regarding posted information published on the news site. When the providing unit receives a search request for an official account from a user of the mobile messenger application, it provides information on official accounts that have a relatively high evaluation by the evaluation unit as official accounts that match the search request. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the usability of a mobile messenger can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing (part 1) according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing (part 2) according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of how information from an official account is displayed according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the system configuration of an information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of the first server device according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram showing an overview of the account information stored in the account information storage unit according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a diagram showing an overview of the post information stored in the post information storage unit according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the configuration of the second server device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9]Figure 9 shows an example of the processing procedure for information processing performed by the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure for information processing performed by the first server device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that implements the functions of the first server device according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes in detail, with reference to the drawings, the embodiments for implementing the information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments"). Note that these embodiments do not limit the information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application. Furthermore, each embodiment can be appropriately combined as long as the processing content is not inconsistent. Also, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in each of the following embodiments, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0010] [Embodiment] [1. An example of information processing] An example of information processing according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiment described below aims to improve the usability of a mobile messenger by providing a mechanism to enhance the quality of official accounts established in the mobile messenger.

[0011] First, using Figure 1, we will explain the outline of the information processing performed between a first server device 100, which is an example of an information processing device according to the present application, and a second server device 200, which is an example of another information processing device. Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing (part 1) according to the embodiment.

[0012] The information processing shown in FIG. 1 is realized by an information processing system SYS (see, for example, FIG. 4) including the business operator device 10 shown in FIG. 1, the first server device 100 shown in FIG. 1, and the second server device 200 shown in FIG. 1. The business operator device 10, the first server device 100, and the second server device 200 are each connected to a network N (see, for example, FIG. 4) by wire or wirelessly. The business operator device 10, the first server device 100, and the second server device 200 can communicate with other devices through the network N.

[0013] The first server device 100 functions as an online platform that realizes information processing related to a mobile messenger as the information processing according to the embodiment. The first server device 100 provides a function of posting an article to a news site through a mobile messenger application (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as a "messenger app"), which is an application program for using a mobile messenger, for an authenticated official account. For example, when the official account of the business operator UA is authenticated, the first server device 100 provides the business operator UA with a function of posting an article to a news site (step S01).

[0014] The business operator device 10 is used by the business operator UA. A messenger app is pre-installed in the business operator device 10. The business operator UA starts the messenger app, opens a predetermined screen, and inputs an article to be posted to the news site. The business operator device 10 transmits information on the article posted by the business operator UA to the first server device 100 according to the operation of the business operator UA (step S02).

[0015] When the first server device 100 receives information on the article posted by the business operator UA from the business operator device 10, it sets a link to the official account for the received article and transmits it to the second server device 200 as an official account related article (step S03).

[0016] The second server device 200 functions as a media platform that provides various contents to users through news sites. The contents provided by the second server device 200 to users include news, columns, essays, interviews, product reviews, feature articles, or personality articles, etc. Further, the contents provided by the second server device 200 to users may be not only text but also voice or video.

[0017] The second server device 200 publishes the official account-related articles received from the first server device 100 to users through news sites (step S04). Further, the second server device 200 transmits information on user actions (an example of "behavior information") regarding the published official account-related articles to the first server device 100 (step S05).

[0018] The information on user actions regarding the official account-related articles includes the number of views of the official account-related articles, the number of clicks, the content of comments, user reactions on news sites, the number of registrations to favorites, etc.

[0019] When the first server device 100 receives information on user actions regarding the official account-related articles from the second server device 200, it evaluates the official account based on the received information on user actions (step S06). The first server device 100 can give a higher evaluation to the official account-related articles as the number of views, clicks, and registrations to favorites of the official account-related articles is larger. Further, the first server device 100 can give a higher evaluation to the official account-related articles as the number of comments with favorable content is larger by analyzing the content of comments. Further, the first server device 100 can give a higher evaluation to the official account-related articles as the number of favorable user reactions is larger. The first server device 100 comprehensively considers the evaluation of the official account and sets an evaluation value representing the evaluation of the official account for each official account.

[0020] Next, using Figure 2, we will explain the overview of the information processing performed between the terminal device 20 and the first server device 100. Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing (part 2) according to the embodiment.

[0021] The information processing shown in Figure 2 is implemented by an information processing system SYS (see, for example, Figure 4), which includes the terminal device 20 shown in Figure 2 and the first server device 100 shown in Figure 2. The terminal device 20 and the first server device 100 are connected to a network N (see, for example, Figure 4) by wired or wireless means, respectively. The terminal device 20 and the first server device 100 can communicate with other devices through the network N.

[0022] Terminal device 20 is used by user UB who uses the messenger application. The messenger application is pre-installed on terminal device 20. User UB launches the messenger application, opens a designated screen, and enters search words to search for the official account. When terminal device 20 receives the search words from user UB to search for the official account, it sends a search request for the official account corresponding to the search words to the first server device 100 (step S11).

[0023] When the first server device 100 receives a search request for official accounts from the terminal device 20, it performs a listing of official accounts that match the search request (step S12). For example, the first server device 100 selects official accounts that match the search words included in the search request, in descending order of evaluation value. Then, the first server device 100 sends the list of selected official accounts to the terminal device 20 as a search result (step S13). The first server device 100 may pre-define the number of official accounts to select. In this case, the first server device 100 lists a predetermined number of official accounts.

[0024] The terminal device 20 displays the official accounts received from the first server device 100 on a predetermined screen via a messenger application. The user UB selects a desired official account from among the official accounts displayed on the predetermined screen. Upon receiving the selection of an official account from the user UB, the terminal device 20 sends a request to the first server device 100 to display the selected official account (step S14).

[0025] When the first server device 100 receives a request from the terminal device 20 to display an official account, it obtains information about the official account corresponding to the display request (step S15). For example, the first server device 100 obtains information about the home screen corresponding to the official account that can be viewed through the messenger app, and information about user actions on the official account.

[0026] Then, the first server device 100 transmits the acquired official account information to the terminal device 20 (step S16). When the first server device 100 provides the official account information to the user UB, it reflects information based on user actions on the official account in a viewable state for the official account. Below, an example of how the official account information is displayed on the terminal device 20 will be explained using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of how the official account information is displayed according to the embodiment.

[0027] As shown in the display example EX-1 in Figure 3, the terminal device 20 displays the information of official accounts OA-1 and OA-2 received from the first server device 100 on the messenger application's search results display screen W-1. Furthermore, for example, if official account OA-1 is selected by the user UB on the search results display screen W-1, the terminal device 20 displays the home screen W-2 corresponding to official account OA-1, as shown in the display example EX-2 in Figure 3.

[0028] The home screen W-2 displays evaluation information Ev for the official account OA-1. For example, the evaluation information Ev shown in Figure 3 includes a link to a news site for viewing articles posted by the official account OA-1, the number of comments posted on the articles, and reviews from other users about the official account OA-1. When the first server device 100 receives a request from a user UB to view articles posted by the official account OA-1 based on the evaluation information Ev displayed on the home screen W-2, it displays the articles posted by the official account OA-1 on the terminal device 20. The user UB can view the articles posted by the official account OA-1 and check the quality of the official account OA-1.

[0029] Furthermore, the first server device 100 may select an official account that matches the user UB's search request based on the viewing history of posted information by all users of the messenger application. For example, the first server device 100 may select an official account that is the source of posted information that has been viewed by many other users, from among the official accounts that match the user UB's search request.

[0030] Furthermore, the first server device 100 may select official accounts that match user UB's search request based on the following status of official accounts by all users of the messenger app. For example, the first server device 100 may select official accounts that match user UB's search request and have a large number of other users following them.

[0031] Furthermore, the first server device 100 may select an official account based on the following status of official accounts of similar businesses classified in the same type of business as the business corresponding to the official account followed by all users of the messenger app. For example, the first server device 100 may select an official account from among the official accounts of similar businesses classified in the same type of business as the business corresponding to the official account matching the user UB's search request, which has a large number of followers from other users.

[0032] Furthermore, when the first server device 100 provides posted information to the user UB, it may also provide advertising information. In this case, the first server device 100 may grant a predetermined benefit to the official account that posted the information, in accordance with the placement of the advertising information. The first server device 100 may also change the rate at which the predetermined benefit is distributed to the official account according to the official account's rating. For example, the first server device 100 may grant a higher rate to official accounts with higher ratings.

[0033] Furthermore, when a user UB searches for articles on the news site, the second server device 200 may display articles related to official accounts followed by the user UB as news on the top screen of the news site. For example, the second server device 200 obtains information on official accounts followed by the user UB from the first server device 100, and searches for articles posted by the relevant official accounts based on the obtained information. If there are articles posted by the relevant official accounts, the second server device 200 displays them on the top screen of the news site.

[0034] Furthermore, when a user UB searches for articles on the news site, the second server device 200 may display articles posted by official accounts of similar businesses classified in the same type of business as the official account followed by the user UB as news on the top screen of the news site. For example, the second server device 200 obtains information from the first server device 100 about official accounts of similar businesses classified in the same type of business as the official account followed by the user UB, and searches for articles posted by the relevant official account based on the obtained information about the official account. If there are articles posted by the relevant official account, the second server device 200 displays them on the top screen of the news site.

[0035] [2. System Configuration] The configuration of the information processing system SYS according to this embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the information processing system SYS according to this embodiment.

[0036] As shown in Figure 4, the information processing system SYS according to this embodiment includes a plurality of business operators 10, such as business operator equipment 10-1 and business operator equipment 10-2, a plurality of terminal devices 20, such as terminal devices 20-1 and terminal devices 20-2, a first server device 100, and a second server device 200. Note that Figure 4 is merely an example of the configuration of the information processing system SYS according to this embodiment, and it may also include other devices such as a service provider device that performs processing related to a portal site that provides various online services.

[0037] The operator device 10, terminal device 20, first server device 100, and second server device 200 are connected to network N by wire or wireless. Each of the operator device 10, terminal device 20, first server device 100, and second server device 200 can communicate with other devices through network N.

[0038] In the following explanation, if it is not necessary to distinguish between carrier equipment 10-1 and carrier equipment 10-2, they will be collectively referred to as "carrier equipment 10." Similarly, if it is not necessary to distinguish between carrier UA-1 and carrier UA-2, they will be collectively referred to as "carrier UA." If it is not necessary to distinguish between terminal equipment 20-1 and terminal equipment 20-2, they will be collectively referred to as "terminal equipment 20." Similarly, if it is not necessary to distinguish between user UB-1 and user UB-2, they will be collectively referred to as "user UB."

[0039] Network N includes, for example, WANs (Wide Area Networks) such as the Internet, and mobile communication networks such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th Generation), or 5G (5th Generation: 5th Generation Mobile Communication System).

[0040] The operator device 10 connects to network N via a mobile communication network or short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi (Local Area Network), and can communicate with other devices such as the first server device 100 through network N.

[0041] Furthermore, the carrier device 10 is used by the carrier's UA (User Agent) that utilizes the messenger application. The carrier device 10 may be, for example, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), a desktop PC, a smartphone, or a tablet PC.

[0042] A service provider UA can operate the service provider device 10 to launch a messenger application and send a connect request message through the messenger application. Alternatively, the service provider UA can operate the service provider device 10 to launch the messenger application and send posting information, such as articles, to the first server device 100 through a predetermined screen in the messenger application. Furthermore, the service provider UA may access the first server device 100 via an API (Application Programming Interface) provided by the service provider managing the first server device 100, and send posting information, such as articles, to the first server device 100 through a predetermined tool displayed on the service provider device 10 as a user interface. The predetermined tool may be a dedicated application program equipped with various functions for performing processes such as sending posting information, or it may be a predetermined management screen that can be displayed as a web page via a web browser.

[0043] Furthermore, the service provider device 10 can display content provided by the first server device 100, for example, using a dedicated application or a web browser. When the service provider device 10 receives control information from the first server device 100 to perform information display processing, it performs the display processing according to the control information.

[0044] Control information is described using, for example, scripting languages ​​such as JavaScript (registered trademark), stylesheet languages ​​such as CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), programming languages ​​such as Java (registered trademark), or markup languages ​​such as HTML (HyperText Markup Language). Alternatively, a predetermined application distributed from the first server device 100 may be considered as control information.

[0045] Terminal device 20 is used by user UBs who utilize the messenger application. The messenger application is pre-installed on terminal device 20. User UBs launch the messenger application, open a designated screen, and enter search terms to search for official accounts. Upon receiving the search terms from user UBs, terminal device 20 sends a search request for the official accounts corresponding to the search terms to the first server device 100.

[0046] Furthermore, user UB can operate terminal device 20 to access second server device 200, open the news site screen provided by second server device 200, and view various content such as news, columns, essays, interviews, product reviews, feature articles, or biographical articles through the news site screen. The content that user UB views through the news site includes posted information such as articles posted from the official account of business operator UA.

[0047] Furthermore, the terminal device 20 connects to the network N via a mobile communication network or short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth® or Wi-Fi (Local Area Network), and can communicate with other devices such as the first server device 100 and the second server device 200 through the network N.

[0048] Furthermore, the terminal device 20 may be, for example, a notebook PC (personal computer), a desktop PC, a smartphone, or a tablet PC.

[0049] Furthermore, the terminal device 20 can display content provided by the first server device 100, for example, using a dedicated application or a web browser. When the terminal device 20 receives control information from the first server device 100 to perform information display processing, it performs the display processing according to the control information.

[0050] Control information is described using, for example, scripting languages ​​such as JavaScript (registered trademark), stylesheet languages ​​such as CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), programming languages ​​such as Java (registered trademark), or markup languages ​​such as HTML (HyperText Markup Language). Alternatively, a predetermined application distributed from the first server device 100 may be considered as control information.

[0051] The first server device 100 is operated and managed by a service provider that provides communication services via a mobile messenger. The first server device 100 is an example of an information processing device according to the present invention. As information processing according to the embodiment, the first server device 100 functions as an online platform that realizes information processing related to a mobile messenger. The first server device 100 provides authenticated official accounts with a function to post articles to a news site via a messenger app.

[0052] Furthermore, while the first server device 100 is typically a server device, it may also be implemented as a mainframe or workstation. Additionally, when the first server device 100 is implemented as a server device, it may be implemented as a single server device, or as a cloud system in which multiple server devices and multiple storage devices work together.

[0053] The second server device 200 is operated and managed by a service provider that provides content delivery services through a news site (an example of a "specified domain"). The second server device 200 is an example of another information processing device. The second server device 200 functions as a media platform that provides various content to users through a news site. The content that the second server device 200 provides to users includes news, columns, essays, interviews, product reviews, feature articles, or biographical articles. Furthermore, the content that the second server device 200 provides to users may be not only text, but also audio or video.

[0054] Furthermore, while the second server device 200 is typically a server device, it may also be implemented as a mainframe or workstation. Additionally, if the second server device 200 is implemented as a server device, it may be implemented as a single server device, or as a cloud system in which multiple server devices and multiple storage devices work together.

[0055] [3. Equipment configuration] (3-1. Functional configuration of the first server device) Hereinafter, an example of the functional configuration of the first server device 100 in the information processing system SYS according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first server device 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the first server device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0056] (Communications Department 110) The communication unit 110 is implemented by, for example, a communication module or a NIC (Network Interface Card). The communication unit 110 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless. The first server device 100 transmits and receives information with other devices such as the operator device 10, the terminal device 20, and the second server device 200 via the network N.

[0057] (Storage unit 120) The storage unit 120 stores, for example, programs and data used for control and calculations by the control unit 130. For example, the storage unit 120 can be implemented using semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks or optical discs. For example, the storage unit 120 has an account information storage unit 121 and a posting information storage unit 122. The storage unit 120 is not particularly limited to the example shown in Figure 5, and can store data as appropriate that is necessary for performing information processing according to the embodiment. Search history for various online services may be obtained from other systems as needed.

[0058] (Account information storage unit 121) The account information storage unit 121 stores account information related to official accounts, which are business accounts opened on the messenger app. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an overview of the account information stored in the account information storage unit 121 according to this embodiment.

[0059] As shown in Figure 6, the account information stored in the account information storage unit 121 has multiple items, such as "User ID," "Account Information," "Business Operator Information," and "Evaluation Information." These items in the account information are interconnected.

[0060] The "User ID" field stores identification information used to identify the service provider UA in communication services via the messenger app. The "Account Information" field stores information about the official accounts used by the service provider UA in communication services. The account information stored in the "Account Information" field may also include the status of official accounts followed by the messenger app user (for example, the user UB shown in Figure 2).

[0061] The "Business Information" field stores information such as the business type, business model, and business locations of the business UA. The "Rating Information" field stores a rating value set as information representing the rating of the business UA's official account. The rating information may also include data such as the number of views and posts made from posts made by the official account.

[0062] (Posting Information Storage Unit 122) The post information storage unit 122 stores post information, such as articles posted from official accounts, through a predetermined screen of the messenger app. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an overview of the post information stored in the post information storage unit 122 according to this embodiment.

[0063] As shown in Figure 7, the post information stored in the post information storage unit 122 has multiple fields, such as "reception ID," "account information," and "post information." These fields in the post information are interconnected.

[0064] The "Reception ID" field stores identification information to individually identify posts made from official accounts. The "Account Information" field stores information about the official account used by the service provider UA in the communication service. The "Post Information" field stores the post information made from the official account. The post information stored in the "Post Information" field may also be associated with information indicating the viewing history of the post information.

[0065] (Control unit 130) The control unit 130 is a controller, and is realized by the execution of various programs (an example of an "information processing program") stored in the memory device inside the first server device 100 using RAM as the working area, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit), etc.

[0066] Furthermore, the control unit 130 may be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a GPGPU (General Purpose Graphic Processing Unit).

[0067] As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 130 includes a reception unit 131, an evaluation unit 132, a provision unit 133, and an assignment unit 134, and each of these units realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below.

[0068] The control unit 130 may have multiple internally divided components that realize or execute the functions and operations of the information processing described below. Furthermore, the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 5, and may have other configurations as long as they perform the information processing described later, and may have other functional units other than those shown in Figure 5.

[0069] (Reception desk 131) The reception unit 131 receives posted information from official accounts, which are business accounts established on mobile messenger applications, that meet certain conditions.

[0070] For example, the reception unit 131 uses the article posting function provided to authenticated official accounts to receive information posted from official accounts as articles related to official accounts. The reception unit 131 also submits articles related to official accounts, which contain links to the official accounts that are the source of the articles, to the second server device 200, which makes various content viewable through the news site.

[0071] Furthermore, the reception unit 131 receives official account search requests sent from terminal devices 20 used by messenger app users (for example, user UB shown in Figure 2) via the communication unit 110. The reception unit 131 then forwards the official account display request to the provision unit 133.

[0072] Furthermore, the reception unit 131 receives requests to display official accounts sent from terminal devices 20 used by messenger app users (for example, user UB shown in Figure 2) via the communication unit 110. The reception unit 131 then forwards the requests to display official accounts to the provision unit 133.

[0073] (Evaluation Section 132) The evaluation unit 132 evaluates official accounts based on information regarding user actions on posted information published on the news site (an example of "behavioral information indicating user actions"). For example, based on information regarding user actions on published articles related to the official account, the evaluation unit 132 can give a higher evaluation to the official account articles if they have a large number of views, clicks, and favorites. The first server device 100 also analyzes the content of comments and can give a higher evaluation to the official account articles if there are many positive comments. The first server device 100 can also give a higher evaluation to the official account articles if there are many positive user reactions. The first server device 100 takes all of the evaluations of the official accounts into consideration and sets an evaluation value for each official account that represents the evaluation of the official account.

[0074] (Provider 133) When the provisioning unit 133 receives a request to search for an official account from a user of the messenger application (for example, a user UB shown in Figure 2), it provides information on official accounts that have a relatively high evaluation by the evaluation unit 132 as official accounts that match the search request. For example, the provisioning unit 133 provides the user by transmitting information on official accounts that match the search request to the terminal device 20 used by the messenger application user via the communication unit 110.

[0075] Furthermore, when providing information about an official account, the information provider 133 can reflect evaluation information indicating the evaluation of the official account in a viewable format for the official account. For example, the information provider 133 can reflect evaluation information Ev for official account OA-1 on the home screen W-2 (see Figure 3) of official account OA-1, including a link to a news site for viewing articles posted by official account OA-1, the number of comments posted on the articles, and reviews of official account OA-1 by other users.

[0076] Furthermore, the service provider 133 can select official accounts that match the search request based on the viewing history of posted information by users of the messenger app (for example, user UB shown in Figure 2). For example, the service provider 133 may select an official account that is the source of posted information that has been viewed many times by other users, from among the official accounts that match user UB's search request.

[0077] Furthermore, the service provider 133 can select official accounts that match the search request based on the following status of the official accounts by the messenger app user (for example, user UB shown in Figure 2). For example, the service provider 133 may select official accounts that match user UB's search request and have a large number of other users following them.

[0078] Furthermore, the service provider 133 can select an official account based on the following status of official accounts of similar businesses classified in the same type of business as the business corresponding to the official account being followed by a user of the messenger app (for example, user UB shown in Figure 2). For example, the service provider 133 may select an official account from among the official accounts of similar businesses classified in the same type of business as the business corresponding to the official account matching user UB's search request, which has a large number of followers from other users.

[0079] Furthermore, the provision unit 133 may provide advertising information along with the posted information.

[0080] (Granting section 134) The granting unit 134 grants a predetermined benefit to the official account that posted the information in exchange for providing advertising information. The granting unit 134 may also change the rate at which the predetermined benefit is distributed to the official account according to the official account's rating. For example, the granting unit 134 may give a higher rate to official accounts with higher ratings.

[0081] (3-2. Functional configuration of the second server device) Hereinafter, an example of the functional configuration of the second server device 200 in the information processing system SYS according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example configuration of the second server device 200 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, the second server device 200 has a communication unit 210, a storage unit 220, and a control unit 230.

[0082] (Communications Department 210) The communication unit 210 is implemented, for example, by a communication module or a NIC (Network Interface Card). The communication unit 210 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless. The second server device 200 transmits and receives information with other devices such as the terminal device 20 and the first server device 100 via the network N.

[0083] (Storage unit 220) The storage unit 220 stores, for example, programs and data used for control and calculations by the control unit 230. For example, the storage unit 220 can be implemented using semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks or optical discs.

[0084] For example, the memory unit 220 stores information posted from official accounts. Alternatively, the memory unit 220 may also store information such as the following status of official accounts.

[0085] (Control unit 230) The control unit 230 is a controller, and is realized by the execution of various programs (an example of "information processing programs") stored in the memory device inside the second server device 200 using RAM as the working area, via a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit).

[0086] Furthermore, the control unit 230 may be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a GPGPU (General Purpose Graphic Processing Unit).

[0087] The control unit 230 can perform collaborative processing with the first server device 100 in providing content on the news site.

[0088] For example, the control unit 230 stores the posting information from the official account, which has been submitted from the first server device 100, in the storage unit 220. When a user of the news site (for example, a user UB as shown in Figures 1 and 2) searches for articles, the control unit 230 can display articles related to the official account that the user follows as news on the top screen of the news site.

[0089] Furthermore, for example, when a user of the news site searches for articles, the control unit 230 can display articles related to official accounts that are followed by the news site user on the top screen of the news site. For example, the control unit 230 obtains information about official accounts that are followed by the news site user by requesting it from the first server device 100. Then, based on the information about the official accounts obtained from the first server device 100, the control unit 230 searches for articles posted by the relevant official accounts, and if there are any articles posted by the relevant official accounts, it displays them on the top screen of the news site.

[0090] Furthermore, for example, when a user of the news site searches for articles, the control unit 230 can display articles posted by official accounts of similar businesses classified in the same type of business as the official account followed by the news site user as news on the top screen of the news site. For example, the control unit 230 obtains information on official accounts of similar businesses classified in the same type of business as the official account followed by the news site user by requesting it from the first server device 100. Then, based on the information on the official account obtained from the first server device 100, the control unit 230 searches for articles posted by the relevant official account, and if there are articles posted by the relevant official account, it displays them on the top screen of the news site.

[0091] Furthermore, the control unit 230 provides the first server device 100 with information regarding user actions on news site user posts by transmitting this information to the first server device 100. The control unit 230 may transmit information regarding user actions to the first server device 100 in response to a request from the first server device 100, or it may transmit it automatically at a predetermined timing.

[0092] [4. Processing procedure according to the embodiment] (4-1. Information Processing (Part 1) Processing Procedure) The following describes the information processing procedure performed by the information processing system SYS according to this embodiment, using Figure 9 as an example. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the information processing procedure performed by the information processing system SYS according to this embodiment. The procedure shown in Figure 9 is performed by the first server device 100 and the second server device 200. The procedure shown in Figure 9 is repeatedly performed while the first server device 100 and the second server device 200 are in operation.

[0093] As shown in Figure 9, the first server device 100 receives posted information from the official account (step S101).

[0094] Furthermore, the first server device 100 places a link to the official account that is the source of the posted information into the posted information (step S102).

[0095] Furthermore, the first server device 100 transmits the posted information to the second server device 200 (step S103).

[0096] The second server device 200 stores and registers the posted information received from the first server device 100 in the storage unit 220 (step S104).

[0097] Furthermore, the second server device 200 publishes the posted information on the news site at a predetermined time (step S105).

[0098] Furthermore, the second server device 200 transmits behavioral information, which is information about user actions in response to information posted by users of the news site, to the first server device 100 (step S106), and then terminates the processing procedure shown in Figure 9.

[0099] When the first server device 100 receives action information, which is information about user actions on posted information, from the second server device 200, it evaluates the official account based on the received action information (step S107) and terminates the processing procedure shown in Figure 9.

[0100] (4-2. Information Processing (Part 2) Processing Procedure) The following describes the information processing procedure performed by the first server device 100 according to the embodiment, using Figure 10 as an example. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the information processing procedure performed by the first server device 100 according to the embodiment. The procedure shown in Figure 10 is performed by the control unit 130 of the first server device 100. The procedure shown in Figure 10 is repeatedly performed while the first server device 100 is running.

[0101] As shown in Figure 10, the reception unit 131 receives an official account search request sent from a terminal device 20 used by a user of the messenger app via the communication unit 110 (step S201).

[0102] Furthermore, the provisioning unit 133 searches for official accounts that match the search request (step S202). For example, the provisioning unit 133 selects information on official accounts that have a relatively high evaluation by the evaluation unit 132 as official accounts that match the search request.

[0103] Furthermore, the provision unit 133 transmits the search results of the official account to the terminal device 20 via the communication unit 110 (step S203).

[0104] Furthermore, the reception unit 131 receives the request to display the official account sent from the terminal device 20 via the communication unit 110 (step S204).

[0105] Furthermore, the provisioning unit 133 obtains information from the official account (step S205).

[0106] Furthermore, the provisioning unit 133 provides the acquired official account information to the user of the messenger application by transmitting it to the terminal device 20 via the communication unit 110 (step S206), thereby completing the processing procedure shown in Figure 10. For example, when providing official account information, the provisioning unit 133 reflects evaluation information indicating the evaluation of the official account by the evaluation unit 132 in a viewable format for the official account.

[0107] [5. Hardware Configuration] Furthermore, the first server device 100 according to the embodiment described above is implemented by a computer 1000 having the configuration shown in Figure 11, for example. Figure 11 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that implements the functions of the first server device 100 according to the embodiment.

[0108] Computer 1000 is connected to an output device 1010 and an input device 1020, and has a configuration in which an arithmetic unit 1030, a primary storage device 1040, a secondary storage device 1050, an output interface 1060, an input interface 1070, and a network interface 1080 are connected by a bus 1090.

[0109] The arithmetic unit 1030 operates based on programs stored in the primary storage device 1040 and the secondary storage device 1050, as well as programs read from the input device 1020, and executes various processes. The primary storage device 1040 is a memory device, such as RAM, that temporarily stores data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations. The secondary storage device 1050 is a storage device where data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and is implemented using ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD, flash memory, etc.

[0110] The output IF1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to output devices 1010, such as monitors and printers, and is implemented using connectors of standards such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), and HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface). The input IF1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as mice, keyboards, and scanners, and is implemented using, for example, USB.

[0111] The input device 1020 may also be a device that reads information from, for example, an optical recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), tape media, magnetic recording media, or semiconductor memory. Furthermore, the input device 1020 may be an external storage medium such as a USB memory stick.

[0112] Network IF1080 receives data from other devices via network N and sends it to the arithmetic unit 1030, and also transmits data generated by the arithmetic unit 1030 to other devices via network N.

[0113] The arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output IF 1060 and the input IF 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or the secondary storage device 1050 onto the primary storage device 1040 and executes the loaded program.

[0114] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the first server device 100 according to the embodiment, the arithmetic unit 1030 of the computer 1000 performs the same functions as the control unit 130 by executing a program (for example, an information processing program) loaded onto the primary storage device 1040. That is, the arithmetic unit 1030 performs processing by the first server device 100 according to the embodiment in cooperation with the program (for example, an information processing program) loaded onto the primary storage device 1040.

[0115] [6. Others] Of the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically by known methods. In addition, the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed at will unless otherwise specified.

[0116] Furthermore, the components of each illustrated device are functionally conceptual and do not necessarily need to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific forms of distribution and integration of each device are not limited to those shown, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads and usage conditions.

[0117] Furthermore, the embodiments described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not contradictory.

[0118] Although embodiments of the present application have been described in detail above with reference to several drawings, these are illustrative examples, and the present invention can be implemented in various other forms with modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, starting with the embodiments described in the disclosure section of the invention.

[0119] Furthermore, the terms "section, module, unit" mentioned above can be replaced with "means" or "circuit," etc. For example, a control unit can be replaced with a control means or a control circuit.

[0120] [7. Effects] The first server device 100 according to this embodiment includes a reception unit 131, an evaluation unit 132, and a provision unit 133. The reception unit 131 receives posted information from official accounts that meet predetermined conditions, which are business accounts established on a mobile messenger application. The evaluation unit 132 evaluates the official accounts based on behavioral information that indicates the actions of news site users regarding posted information published on the news site. When the provision unit 133 receives a search request for an official account from a user of the mobile messenger application, it provides information on official accounts that have a relatively high evaluation by the evaluation unit 132 as official accounts that match the search request.

[0121] Furthermore, the reception unit 131 submits the posted information, along with a link to the official account that is the source of the posted information, to other information processing devices (for example, the second server device 200) that make various content viewable through the news site. The evaluation unit 132 obtains behavioral information regarding the posted information from the other information processing devices and evaluates the official account based on the obtained behavioral information.

[0122] Furthermore, when providing information about the official account, the provision unit 133 reflects evaluation information indicating the evaluation of the official account by the evaluation unit 132 in a format that can be viewed by the official account.

[0123] Furthermore, the service provider 133 may select an official account that matches the search request based on the viewing history of posted information by users of the messenger app.

[0124] Furthermore, the service provider 133 may select official accounts that match the search request based on the following status of the messenger app user.

[0125] Furthermore, the service provider 133 may select official accounts based on the following status of official accounts of similar businesses classified in the same type of business as the business corresponding to the official account followed by users of the messenger app.

[0126] Furthermore, the provision unit 133 may provide advertising information along with the posted information.

[0127] Furthermore, the first server device 100 has a granting unit 134 that grants a predetermined benefit to the official account that is the source of the posted information in response to the provision of advertising information.

[0128] Furthermore, the granting unit 134 may change the predetermined profit distribution rate according to the evaluation of the official account.

[0129] For these reasons, the first server device 100 according to the embodiment can improve the usability of the mobile messenger by selecting information on official accounts to be provided to users of the mobile messenger application, and by providing a mechanism to provide users of the mobile messenger application with objective information for evaluating the quality of the official accounts.

[0130] Furthermore, the effects described above can also be achieved by any combination of the processes performed by each of the parts described above, or by any combination of the processes performed by each of the parts. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0131] SYS Information Processing System N Network 10 Operator equipment 20 Terminal devices 100 First Server Device 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Account Information Storage Unit 122 Post Information Storage Unit 130 Control Unit 131 Reception Department 132 Evaluation Department 133 Provision Department 134 Assignment section 200 Second Server Device 210 Communications Department 220 Storage section 230 Control Unit

Claims

1. A reception unit that accepts posted information from official business accounts established on a mobile messenger application that meet certain conditions, An evaluation unit that evaluates the official account based on behavioral information showing the actions of users of the news site in response to the posted information published on the news site, When a user of the mobile messenger application requests to search for the official account, the providing unit provides information on the official account that has a relatively high rating from the evaluation unit as the official account that matches the search request. An information processing device characterized by having the following features.

2. The aforementioned reception unit is To another information processing device that makes various content viewable through the aforementioned news site, the posted information, with a link to the official account that is the source of the posted information, is submitted. The evaluation unit described above, The system obtains the behavioral information regarding the posted information from the other information processing device and evaluates the official account based on the obtained behavioral information. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The aforementioned supply unit is, When providing information about the official account, the evaluation information indicating the evaluation of the official account by the evaluation unit is reflected in a viewable format for the official account. The information processing apparatus according to feature 2.

4. The aforementioned supply unit is, Based on the user's viewing history of the posted information, the system selects the official account that matches the search request. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

5. The aforementioned supply unit is, Based on the user's following status of the official account, the system selects the official account that matches the search request. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

6. The aforementioned supply unit is, The official account is selected based on the user's following status of similar businesses classified in the same industry as the business corresponding to the official account. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

7. The aforementioned supply unit is, Providing advertising information along with the aforementioned posted information. The information processing apparatus according to feature 2.

8. Granting Unit: Grants a predetermined benefit to the official account that is the source of the posted information in response to the provision of the advertising information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising

9. The aforementioned attachment unit, The predetermined profit distribution rate will be changed according to the evaluation of the official account. The information processing apparatus according to feature 8.

10. A method of information processing performed by a computer, A receiving process for receiving posted information from official business accounts established on a mobile messenger application that meet certain conditions, An evaluation step to evaluate the official account based on behavioral information showing the actions of users of the news site in response to the posted information published on the news site, When a user of the mobile messenger application requests to search for the official account, the mobile messenger application provides information on the official account that has a relatively high evaluation in the evaluation process, which matches the search request. An information processing method characterized by including

11. On the computer, A procedure for receiving posted information from official business accounts established on a mobile messenger application that meet certain conditions, and An evaluation procedure for evaluating the official account based on behavioral information showing the actions of users of the news site in response to the posted information published on the news site, When a user of the mobile messenger application requests to search for the official account, the provision procedure provides information on the official account that matches the search request and has a relatively high evaluation according to the evaluation procedure. An information processing program characterized by causing the execution of [a specific action].

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