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

Abstract

Based on the search query entered in the search service, information about the account in the messaging service is provided. [Solution] The information processing device according to the present invention is characterized by having: a receiving unit that receives input of a search query from a user in a predetermined search service; an identification unit that identifies an account in a predetermined message service that corresponds to the search query received by the receiving unit; and a providing unit that provides account information indicating the account identified by the identification unit to the user as a search result corresponding to the search query.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, techniques for providing various information to users via the Internet are known. As an example of such a technique, a technique related to a search-linked advertisement that provides an advertisement corresponding to a search keyword input by a user is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the above prior art, it is not always possible to provide information regarding an account in a message service according to a search query input in a search service.

[0005] The present application has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide information regarding an account in a message service according to a search query input in a search service.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing device according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: a receiving unit that receives input of a search query from a user in a predetermined search service; an identification unit that identifies an account in a predetermined message service that corresponds to the search query received by the receiving unit; and a providing unit that provides the user with account information indicating the account identified by the identification unit as a search result corresponding to the search query. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment, the system can provide information about accounts in the messaging service in response to search queries entered in the search service. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of information processing according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a diagram (1) showing an example of the screen of the user terminal 100 according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram (2) showing an example of the screen of the user terminal 100 according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of an OA information database 31. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the user information database 32. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the information processing procedure according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that implements the functions of the information processing device 10. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes in detail, with reference to the drawings, the embodiments for implementing the information processing device, 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 device, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application. Furthermore, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in each of the following embodiments, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0010] [1. Embodiments] The information processing realized by the information processing device of this embodiment will be explained using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of information processing according to the embodiment. In Figure 1, the information processing according to the embodiment is realized by the information processing device 10, which is an example of the information processing device according to the present application.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment includes an information processing device 10, a user terminal 100, an administrator terminal 200, and a service server 300. The information processing device 10, the user terminal 100, the administrator terminal 200, and the service server 300 are connected to each other via wired or wireless means through a network N (see, for example, Figure 4). The network N is, for example, a WAN (Wide Area Network) such as the Internet. Note that the information processing system 1 shown in Figure 1 may include multiple information processing devices 10, multiple user terminals 100, multiple administrator terminals 200, and multiple service servers 300.

[0012] The information processing device 10 shown in Figure 1 is an information processing device that performs information processing according to the embodiment, and can be realized by, for example, a server device or a cloud system. In the example in Figure 1, the information processing device 10 provides a search service (search engine) #1 to the user.

[0013] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may also function as a web server providing a website related to search service #1. Alternatively, the information processing device 10 may be a device that distributes information to be displayed on applications related to the search service installed on user terminals 100 and administrator terminals 200. In addition, the information processing device 10 may be a server that distributes the application data itself.

[0014] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may function as a distribution device that distributes control information to user terminals 100 and administrator terminals 200. Here, the control information is written using, for example, a scripting language such as JavaScript (registered trademark) or a stylesheet language such as CSS (Cascading Style Sheets). Note that the application itself distributed from the information processing device 10 may also be considered as control information.

[0015] The user terminal 100 shown in Figure 1 is an information processing device used by the user. The user terminal 100 can be implemented as, for example, a smartphone, tablet, notebook PC (Personal Computer), desktop PC, mobile phone, or PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). The user terminal 100 displays information distributed by the information processing device 10 and service server 300 via a web browser or application. Note that the example in Figure 1 shows the user terminal 100 as a smartphone.

[0016] The administrator terminal 200 shown in FIG. 1 is an information processing device used by administrators of enterprises, stores (such as physical stores, stores participating in e-commerce services, etc.). The administrator terminal 200 is realized, for example, by a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), a desktop PC, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or the like. Further, the administrator terminal 200 displays information distributed by the information processing device 10, the service server 300, etc. using a web browser or an application. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the case where the administrator terminal 200 is a notebook PC is shown.

[0017] The service server 300 shown in FIG. 1 provides a message service #1 for performing message exchanges between users and between users and official accounts (for example, accounts managed by administrators of enterprises or stores) to users, administrators, etc. To give a specific example, the information processing device 10 provides a user with a message service for performing message exchanges between other users associated with the user (in other words, other users with whom the user has registered as a friend) and official accounts associated with the user (in other words, official accounts with whom the user has registered as a friend).

[0018] Note that the service server 300 may have a function as a web server that provides a website related to the message service #1. Further, the service server 300 may be a device that distributes information to be displayed on an application related to the message service #1 installed on the user terminal 100, the administrator terminal 200, etc. to the user terminal 100, the administrator terminal 200, etc. Further, the service server 300 may be a server that distributes the application data itself.

[0019] Further, the service server 300 may function as a distribution device that distributes control information to the user terminal 100, the administrator terminal 200, and the like. Here, the control information is described by, for example, a script language such as JavaScript (registered trademark) or a style sheet language such as CSS. Note that the application itself distributed from the service server 300 may be regarded as control information.

[0020] Hereinafter, an example of information processing performed by the information processing apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. In the following description, it is assumed that the user terminal 100 is used by a user (user U1) identified by the user ID "UID#1" in the search service #1. Also, in the following description, the user terminal 100 may be regarded as the same as the user U1. That is, in the following description, the user U1 can also be read as the user terminal 100.

[0021] Also, in the following description, it is assumed that an application for providing the search service #1 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "search app") and an application for providing the message service #1 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "message app") are pre-installed in the user terminal 100.

[0022] Also, in the following description, it is assumed that the account of the user U1 has been created in the message service #1. Also, the information processing apparatus 10 associates the user ID of the user U1 in the search service #1 with the user ID of the user U1 in the message service #1 and manages them in the storage unit of its own device.

[0023] Note that the association between the user ID in the search service #1 and the user ID in the message service #1 may be implemented in any manner. For example, the user U1 can perform the association by starting the message app installed in the user terminal 100 and performing an operation of logging in to the search service #1 on a predetermined page (for example, the account center).

[0024] Furthermore, in the following explanation, administrator terminals 200-1 to 200-N (where N is any natural number) will be used depending on the administrator using the administrator terminal 200. For example, administrator terminal 200-1 is administrator terminal 200 used by an administrator identified by administrator ID "MID#1" (for example, administrator M1 who manages store #1). Similarly, administrator terminal 200-2 is administrator terminal 200 used by an administrator identified by administrator ID "MID#2" (for example, administrator M2 who manages company #1).

[0025] Furthermore, in the following, administrator terminals 200-1 to 200-N will be referred to simply as "administrator terminal 200" without any particular distinction. Also, in the following explanation, administrator terminal 200 may be treated as identical to the administrator. In other words, in the following, you can also read "administrator" as administrator terminal 200.

[0026] Furthermore, the following explanation assumes that the messaging application is pre-installed on administrator terminal 200.

[0027] First, the service server 300 receives an application from the administrator terminal 200 to create an official account (OA) for a store or company managed by the administrator in Message Service #1 (Step S1). For example, the service server 300 receives information regarding the OA settings and creates the OA based on the received information. To give a specific example, the information processing device 10 receives profile information such as a description of the OA (for example, a description of the store or company managed by the administrator), a profile picture, the business hours of the store managed by the administrator, the address of the store managed by the administrator, the URL of the website of the company or store managed by the administrator (Uniform Resource Locator), and information such as the pricing plan (in other words, the usage fee for Message Service #1).

[0028] When the service server 300 receives information regarding the settings of an Office Automation (OA), it creates (opens) an OA for a company or store based on the received information. The service server 300 then provides the profile information to users on the OA's profile page on the message service #1. The administrator manages the OA and distributes information (messages) about the company or store they manage to users who have added the OA as a friend on the message service #1.

[0029] Furthermore, users can send messages such as questions to OAs they have added as friends on Message Service #1, and exchange messages with the OAs. Users can also block OAs they have added as friends on Message Service #1 to refuse to receive messages from them, if necessary. Users can also mute OAs they have added as friends on Message Service #1 to hide notifications for messages received from them, if necessary.

[0030] Next, the information processing device 10 obtains information related to OA from the service server 300 (step S2). For example, the information processing device 10 obtains information such as profile information, which is information related to OA settings, and pricing plans. The information processing device 10 also obtains information about users who have added OA as a friend (for example, user ID), information indicating whether the user has blocked OA, and information indicating whether the user has muted OA.

[0031] Next, the information processing device 10 receives the input of search query #1 for search service #1 from the user terminal 100 (step S3). Subsequently, the information processing device 10 identifies the OA corresponding to search query #1 (step S4). For example, the information processing device 10 identifies OAs whose profile information corresponds to search query #1 among the OAs that user U1 has added as friends, muted, or blocked. To give a specific example, the information processing device 10 identifies OAs whose description contains the string indicated by search query #1, or synonyms and related words obtained by converting the string using a thesaurus, etc. Hereinafter, the OA identified in step S4 may be referred to as "specific OA".

[0032] Next, the information processing device 10 provides the search results corresponding to search query #1 to the user terminal 100 via search service #1 (step S5). For example, the information processing device 10 provides search results that include information about the web page corresponding to search query #1 (e.g., URL and thumbnail image) along with account information indicating a specific OA. To give a specific example, the information processing device 10 provides information such as the profile image and description of the specific OA as account information.

[0033] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may also include suggestion information in the search results that proposes the next action for user U1 after entering search query #1. For example, the information processing device 10 generates suggestion information using search query #1 and model #1 which has been trained to generate answers to the entered question, and includes it in the search results. To give a specific example, the information processing device 10 generates and provides suggestion information by inputting search query #1 and an instruction sentence that instructs model #1 to output the next action for user U1 based on search query #1.

[0034] To give a more specific example, the information processing device 10 provides suggestion information indicating the next search query that user U1 should enter after search query #1. The information processing device 10 also provides suggestion information indicating the services that the user who entered search query #1 should use. For example, the information processing device 10 provides suggestion information indicating an e-commerce service that provides the product indicated by search query #1.

[0035] Model #1 is a model trained to output a response corresponding to an input question, and is a language model that performs natural language processing, such as GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) or Transformer. Model #1 resides within the information processing device 10 and was created independently by the business operator managing the information processing device 10. It is desirable that the input information be kept confidential by training the model so that it is not used as a new answer.

[0036] Here, we will explain the search results provided to the user terminal 100 using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram (1) showing an example of the screen of the user terminal 100 according to this embodiment.

[0037] In the example shown in Figure 2, the user terminal 100 displays screen C1 which includes an area AR11 for entering a search query, an area AR12 for displaying account information indicating a specific OA corresponding to the search query entered in area AR11, an area AR13 for displaying information about a web page corresponding to the search query entered in area AR11, and an area AR14 for displaying suggested information based on the search query entered in area AR11.

[0038] For example, in area AR12, user terminal 100 displays account information such as the profile picture, name, and description of a specific Office Automation (OA) in a carousel. Suppose user U1 selects one of the account information displayed in area AR12. In this case, user terminal 100 launches a messaging application and displays the page of the OA indicated by the selected account information (for example, the profile page). User U1 then performs operations on the displayed page, such as unblocking or unmuting the specific OA.

[0039] Returning to Figure 1, the explanation continues. Next, the service server 300 provides message service #1 to the user terminal 100 (step S6). For example, in step S5, if user U1 unblocks a specific OA, the service server 300 provides the user terminal 100 with messages sent from that specific OA. Also, in step S5, if user U1 unmutes a specific OA, the service server 300 provides a notification regarding messages sent from that specific OA.

[0040] As described above, the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment identifies an OA corresponding to the search query entered by the user and provides search results showing account information indicating the identified OA. This allows the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment to provide account information in the message service in response to the search query entered in the search service.

[0041] Furthermore, messaging services are often used frequently by users. Therefore, when an OA (Office Automation) provider sends advertisements or other messages to users via a messaging service, these proactive messages may be sent frequently. In other words, messages sent without the user's consent may be sent frequently. In such cases, users may find the messages from the OA annoying and may block or mute the OA.

[0042] Therefore, the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment provides information about the OA that corresponds to the search query entered by the user. In other words, the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment provides information about the corresponding OA in response to the user's active action of needing information, which is a search action. As a result, the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment can present the OA that shows the information the user needs at the time the user needs it, and give the user the opportunity to unblock or unmute the OA, so that the user can freely select the messages sent from the OA in the message service.

[0043] Furthermore, in conventional messaging services, if an OA (Office Assistant) is blocked or muted, the opportunity for contact between the OA and the user is lost, and if the block or mute is not lifted, the user may not be able to obtain the information they need. However, according to the information processing device 10 of this embodiment, it is possible to give the user an opportunity to lift the block or mute of the OA in response to an active action taken when the user needs information, such as a search action. This increases the likelihood of the block or mute being lifted and prevents the loss of opportunities for information provision.

[0044] [2. Other processing examples] The process described above is merely one example, and the information processing device 10 may perform various processes using various types of information. Examples of this are listed below.

[0045] [2-1. Regarding OAs who are not registered as friends] In the example shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 10 may provide account information indicating an OA that user U1 has not added as a friend in message service #1 as a search result corresponding to search query #1. For example, the information processing device 10 identifies an OA that corresponds to search query #1 and that user U1 has not added as a friend, and provides account information related to the identified OA.

[0046] [2-2. Regarding permission to provide account information] Among the specific OAs that user U1 has blocked or muted, there may be some that user U1 does not wish to receive information from. Therefore, in the example in Figure 1, the information processing device 10 may provide account information indicating the OAs that user U1 has authorized to be provided as search results. For example, in step S2, the information processing device 10 obtains information as information about the OA, indicating whether the user who has added the OA as a friend has authorized the provision of account information indicating that OA. The information processing device 10 then provides account information indicating the specific account that has been authorized to provide account information to the user terminal 100.

[0047] Furthermore, the operation to specify whether or not to allow the provision of account information (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "specification operation") may be performed by user U1 on message service #1. Here, we will describe the screen displayed by user terminal 100 when performing the specification operation on message service #1. Figure 3 is Figure (2) showing an example of the screen of user terminal 100 according to this embodiment.

[0048] In the example shown in Figure 3, the user terminal 100 displays screen C21, which includes area AR21, to show accounts that user U1 has added as friends (for example, other users or OAs). For example, on screen C21, the user terminal 100 displays the OAs along with toggle buttons for performing specific operations on those OAs. If the toggle button is moved to the left (OFF), the information processing device 10 excludes the account information indicating the OA corresponding to that toggle button from the search results. If the toggle button is moved to the right (ON), the information processing device 10 provides the user terminal 100 with account information indicating the OA corresponding to that toggle button as a search result.

[0049] The user terminal 100 may also display screen C21, which includes a pull-down menu P21 for sorting the accounts displayed on the screen. If "OA" is selected in the pull-down menu P21, the user terminal 100 transitions screen C21 to screen C22. For example, in area AR21 of screen C22, the user terminal 100 displays only OAs that user U1 has added as friends, and does not display the accounts of other users that user U1 has added as friends.

[0050] [2-3. Regarding the order in which account information should be provided] In the example shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 10 may provide account information in a predetermined order. For example, in step S2, the information processing device 10 further obtains keywords specified by the administrator regarding OA. The information processing device 10 then provides account information in an order based on the relationship between search query #1 and the keywords specified regarding OA. To give a specific example, the information processing device 10 prioritizes providing account information that indicates OA whose keywords correspond to search query #1, over other account information.

[0051] The information processing device 10 may also identify an OA (Office Automation) among those that user U1 has registered as a friend, where the specified keyword corresponds to search query #1, and provide account information indicating the identified OA.

[0052] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may provide account information in an order based on the relevance between search query #1 and the OA description. For example, the information processing device 10 may provide account information for OAs with a higher degree of matching between search query #1 and the description with a higher priority. Also, the information processing device 10 may provide account information for OAs in which search query #1 appears frequently with a higher priority.

[0053] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may provide account information in an order based on the relationship between the user U1's attributes and the attributes specified by the OA administrator. For example, the information processing device 10 may provide account information in an order based on the relationship between the user U1's location (e.g., home, workplace, school, etc.) and the location of the store indicated by the OA. To give a specific example, the information processing device 10 may provide account information indicating the OA of a store with a higher priority the closer the store is to the user U1's location.

[0054] The attributes specified by the OA administrator may include age, gender, etc. In such cases, if the attributes specified by the OA administrator match the attributes of user U1, the information processing device 10 provides account information indicating the OA with a higher priority.

[0055] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may provide account information in an order based on the usage fees paid by the OA administrator for message service #1. For example, the information processing device 10 may provide account information indicating OAs for which the administrator pays higher usage fees with higher priority.

[0056] [2-4. Sending a message indicating a search query] In the example shown in Figure 1, if user U1 selects any of the account information, the information processing device 10 may send search query #1 to the OA indicated by the selected account information via message service #1. For example, if user U1 selects any of the account information, the information processing device 10 may launch the messaging application installed on the user terminal 100 and control it to send a message indicating search query #1 from user U1's account to the OA indicated by the selected account information. Subsequently, the administrator of the OA replies to the message indicating search query #1 via the messaging application.

[0057] [2-5. Regarding the setting of compensation for administrators] In the example shown in Figure 1, when account information is provided to the user terminal 100, the information processing device 10 may set a fee for providing the account information to the administrator of the OA indicated by the account information.

[0058] Furthermore, if account information is provided and user U1 achieves a conversion, the information processing device 10 may set a fee for providing the account information to the administrator of the OA indicated by the account information. For example, if user U1 selects account information, the information processing device 10 sets a fee to the administrator of the OA indicated by the account information.

[0059] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may set a fee for providing account information to the OA administrator when user U1 achieves a conversion on message service #1. For example, if user U1 unblocks or unmutes the OA indicated by the account information after it has been provided to the user terminal 100, the information processing device 10 may set a fee for the OA administrator.

[0060] Furthermore, after account information is provided to the user terminal 100, if user U1 sends a message to the OA indicated by the account information via message service #1, the information processing device 10 sets a fee for the administrator of the OA.

[0061] Furthermore, after account information is provided to the user terminal 100, if the user purchases a product suggested for purchase by the OA indicated by the account information through the e-commerce service provided via message service #1, the information processing device 10 sets a fee for the administrator of the OA.

[0062] Furthermore, the compensation for providing account information is not limited to the methods described above and may be set by any method. For example, the administrator may specify the period for which account information will be provided, or the number of times it will be provided, and set compensation accordingly. In other words, the provision of account information may be on a reservation basis.

[0063] [2-6. Regarding the explanatory text displayed in account information] In the example shown in Figure 1, the information processing device 10 may receive multiple descriptive texts for a single OA from the administrator terminal 200. The information processing device 10 may then select a descriptive text that corresponds to search query #1 from among the multiple descriptive texts for a specific OA and provide account information indicating the selected descriptive text. For example, the information processing device 10 may provide the descriptive text with the highest degree of match with search query #1 from among the multiple descriptive texts for a specific OA as the account information for that specific OA. Alternatively, the information processing device 10 may provide the descriptive text in which search query #1 appears most frequently as the account information for that specific OA.

[0064] [3. Configuration of the Information Processing Device] Next, the configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the information processing device 10 has a communication unit 20, a storage unit 30, and a control unit 40.

[0065] (Regarding Communications Section 20) The communication unit 20 is implemented, for example, by a NIC (Network Interface Card). The communication unit 20 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information with user terminals 100, administrator terminals 200, service servers 300, etc.

[0066] (Regarding memory unit 30) The storage unit 30 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash memory, or by storage devices such as hard disks and optical discs. As shown in Figure 4, the storage unit 30 has an OA information database 31, a user information database 32, and a model database 33.

[0067] (Regarding OA Information Database 31) The OA information database 31 stores various types of information related to office automation (OA) for stores, companies, etc., managed by the administrator. Here, an example of the information stored in the OA information database 31 will be explained using Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the OA information database 31. In the example in Figure 5, the OA information database 31 has items such as "OAID," "profile information," "pricing plan," and "keywords."

[0068] "OAID" indicates identification information used to identify the OA. "Profile Information" indicates information about the OA's profile, such as the OA's description, profile picture, the operating hours of the store managed by the administrator, the address of the store managed by the administrator, and the URL of the website of the company or store managed by the administrator. "Pricing Plan" indicates the usage fee for the OA in Message Service #1. "Keywords" indicates keywords specified by the administrator for the OA.

[0069] In other words, Figure 5 shows an example where the profile information of an OA identified by OAID "OAID#1" is "Profile Information#1", the pricing plan is "Pricing Plan#1", and the keyword is "Keyword#1".

[0070] (Regarding User Information Database 32) The user information database 32 stores various types of information about users. Here, an example of the information stored in the user information database 32 will be explained using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the user information database 32. In the example in Figure 6, the user information database 32 has items such as "User ID," "Linking Information," "Block Information," "Mute Information," and "Attribute Information."

[0071] "User ID" indicates identification information used to identify the user. "Linking Information" is information indicating other users that the user has added as friends in Message Service #1, or accounts such as OA, and for example, identification information (account ID) in the Message Service is stored. "Blocked Information" is information indicating accounts that the user has blocked in Message Service #1, and for example, identification information in Message Service #1 is stored. "Mute Information" is information indicating accounts that the user has muted in Message Service #1, and for example, identification information in the Message Service is stored. "Attribute Information" indicates information about the user's attributes, and for example, information indicating demographic attributes or psychographic attributes is stored.

[0072] In other words, Figure 6 shows an example where the user identified by the user ID "UID#1" has the following associated information: "Associated Information#1", blocked information "Block Information#1", muted information "Mute Information#1", and attribute information "Attribute Information#1".

[0073] (Regarding Model Database 33) The model database 33 stores models that have been trained to output answers to input questions.

[0074] (Regarding the control unit 40) The control unit 40 is a controller, and is realized, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit) executing various programs stored in the memory device inside the information processing device 10 using RAM as a working area. Alternatively, the control unit 40 is a controller, and is realized, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 40 according to this embodiment has a receiving unit 41, a specifying unit 42, a providing unit 43, a presentation unit 44, a transmission unit 45, and a setting unit 46, and realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below.

[0075] (Regarding Reception Desk 41) The reception unit 41 receives search queries from users in a predetermined search service. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the reception unit 41 receives search query #1 in search service #1 from the user terminal 100.

[0076] (Regarding specific section 42) The identification unit 42 identifies the account corresponding to the search query received by the reception unit 41, and identifies the account in a predetermined message service. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the identification unit 42 refers to the storage unit 30 (e.g., the OA information database 31) and identifies the OA corresponding to search query #1.

[0077] Furthermore, the identification unit 42 may identify accounts that are linked to a user in the messaging service but have been blocked by the user. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the identification unit 42 identifies an OA whose profile information corresponds to search query #1 among the OAs that user U1 has added as friends.

[0078] Furthermore, the identification unit 42 may identify accounts linked to a user in the messaging service that have been blocked by the user. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the identification unit 42 identifies an OA whose profile information corresponds to search query #1 among the OAs that user U1 has added as friends and blocked.

[0079] Furthermore, the identification unit 42 may identify accounts linked to a user in the messaging service that have been muted by the user. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the identification unit 42 identifies an OA whose profile information corresponds to search query #1 among the OAs that user U1 has added as friends and muted.

[0080] Furthermore, the identification unit 42 may identify accounts that are not associated with a user in the messaging service. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the identification unit 42 identifies an OA that corresponds to search query #1 and that user U1 has not added as a friend.

[0081] (Regarding Section 43) The provisioning unit 43 provides the user with account information indicating the account identified by the identification unit 42 as a search result corresponding to the search query. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the provisioning unit 43 refers to the storage unit 30 (for example, the OA information database 31 or the user information database 32) and provides search results that include account information indicating a specific OA, along with information about the web page corresponding to search query #1.

[0082] Furthermore, the provisioning unit 43 may provide account information indicating accounts that have been authorized by the user to be provided as search results. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the provisioning unit 43 may provide account information indicating OAs among specific OAs that have been authorized by user U1 to be provided as search results.

[0083] Furthermore, the providing unit 43 may input a search query and an instruction sentence instructing the model, which has been trained to generate answers to input questions, to output the user's next action based on the search query, and may further provide suggestion information that proposes the user's next action based on the output information. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the providing unit 43 inputs search query #1 and an instruction sentence instructing the model #1 to output the user U1's next action based on search query #1, thereby generating and providing suggestion information that proposes the user U1's next action after inputting search query #1.

[0084] Furthermore, the provisioning unit 43 may provide account information in an order based on the relevance between the search query and the keywords specified by the account administrator. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the provisioning unit 43 prioritizes providing account information that indicates an OA whose keyword corresponds to search query #1, over other account information.

[0085] Furthermore, the providing unit 43 may provide account information in an order based on the relevance between the search query and the description of the account. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the providing unit 43 provides account information for OAs that have a high degree of match between search query #1 and the description with a higher priority. Also, the providing unit 43 provides account information for OAs in which search query #1 appears frequently in the description with a higher priority.

[0086] Furthermore, the provisioning unit 43 may provide account information in an order based on the relationship between the user's attributes and the attributes specified by the account administrator. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the provisioning unit 43 provides account information indicating the OA of a store with a higher priority the closer the store is to the user U1's location.

[0087] Furthermore, the provisioning unit 43 may provide account information in an order based on the usage fees paid by the account administrator to the messaging service. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the provisioning unit 43 provides account information that indicates an OA with higher usage fees paid by the administrator with higher priority.

[0088] Furthermore, the provisioning unit 43 may provide, as account information, a description of the account that corresponds to the search query. For example, in the example in Figure 1, the provisioning unit 43 selects a description corresponding to search query #1 from among several descriptions and provides account information indicating the selected description.

[0089] (Regarding the presentation section 44) When account information is selected by the user, the display unit 44 presents the account indicated by the selected account information to the user via the messaging service. For example, in the example in Figure 1, when any of the account information is selected by user U1, the display unit 44 launches the messaging application on the user terminal 100 and displays the OA page indicated by the selected account information.

[0090] (Regarding the transmitting unit 45) When account information is selected by the user, the transmission unit 45 sends a search query via the message service to the account indicated by the selected account information. For example, in the example in Figure 1, when any of the account information is selected by user U1, the presentation unit 44 sends search query #1 via message service #1 to the OA indicated by the selected account information.

[0091] (Regarding setting section 46) The configuration unit 46 sets a fee for the account administrator when account information is provided to a user. For example, in the example in Figure 1, when account information is provided to the user terminal 100, the configuration unit 46 sets a fee for the administrator of the OA indicated by the account information when account information is provided to the user terminal 100.

[0092] Furthermore, the settings unit 46 may set a fee for the account administrator to provide the account information, depending on the conversion of the user to whom the account information is provided. For example, in the example in Figure 1, when user U1 selects account information, the settings unit 46 sets a fee for the administrator of the OA indicated by that account information.

[0093] Furthermore, the configuration unit 46 may set a fee for the account administrator to provide account information in accordance with the user's conversion in the message service. For example, in the example in Figure 1, after account information has been provided, if user U1 achieves a conversion on message service #1, the configuration unit 46 sets a fee for the administrator of the OA indicated by the account information to provide the account information.

[0094] [4. Information Processing Flow] The information processing procedure of the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment will be explained using Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart of an example of the information processing procedure according to the embodiment.

[0095] The system determines whether or not it has received a search query from a user in the designated search service (step S101). If it has not received a search query from a user (step S101; No), the information processing device 10 waits until it receives a search query from a user.

[0096] On the other hand, when the system receives a search query from the user (step S101; Yes), the information processing device 10 identifies the account corresponding to the search query and is an account in a predetermined message service (step S102). Subsequently, the information processing device 10 provides the user with account information indicating the identified account as a search result corresponding to the search query (step S103), and then terminates the process.

[0097] [5. Variations] The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and various modifications and applications are possible.

[0098] [5-1. Regarding the processing method] Of the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, and conversely, all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically by known methods. In addition, the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above text and drawings can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each figure is not limited to the information shown.

[0099] 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.

[0100] Furthermore, the embodiments described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not contradictory.

[0101] [6. Effects] As described above, the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment includes a reception unit 41, a specification unit 42, a provision unit 43, a presentation unit 44, a transmission unit 45, and a setting unit 46. The reception unit 41 receives input of a search query from a user in a predetermined search service. The specification unit 42 identifies an account in a predetermined message service that corresponds to the search query received by the reception unit 41. The provision unit 43 provides the user with account information indicating the account identified by the specification unit 42 as a search result corresponding to the search query. If the user selects an account, the presentation unit 44 presents the account indicated by the selected account information to the user via the message service. If the user selects an account, the transmission unit 45 sends the search query to the account indicated by the selected account information via the message service. If the user selects an account, the setting unit 46 sets a fee for the account administrator for providing the account information when the account information is provided to the user. The setting unit 46 also sets a fee for the account administrator for providing the account information in accordance with the conversion rate of the user who provided the account information. Furthermore, the settings unit 46 sets a fee for account administrators to provide account information, depending on the conversion rate of users in the messaging service.

[0102] As a result, the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment can identify the OA corresponding to the search query entered by the user and provide search results showing account information indicating the identified OA, thereby providing information about accounts in the messaging service in response to the search query entered in the search service.

[0103] Furthermore, in the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment, for example, the identification unit 42 identifies accounts that are linked to a user in the message service and have been blocked by the user. Furthermore, the identification unit 42 identifies accounts that are linked to a user in the message service and have been blocked by the user. Furthermore, the identification unit 42 identifies accounts that are linked to a user in the message service and have been muted by the user.

[0104] As a result, the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment can present the OA (Office Automation) containing the information the user needs at the time the user needs it, and give the user the opportunity to unblock or unmute the OA, so that the user can freely select the messages sent from the OA in the message service.

[0105] Furthermore, in the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment, for example, the identification unit 42 identifies accounts that are not associated with a user in the message service.

[0106] As a result, the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment can present the OA, which contains the information the user needs, at the time the user needs it, and the user can freely select the messages sent from the OA in the message service.

[0107] Furthermore, in the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment, for example, the provisioning unit 43 provides account information indicating accounts that have been authorized by the user to be provided as search results.

[0108] As a result, the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment can avoid providing information that the user does not want, thereby improving usability.

[0109] Furthermore, in the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment, for example, the providing unit 43 inputs a search query and an instruction sentence instructing the model, which has been trained to generate answers to input questions, to output the user's next action from the search query, and further provides suggestion information that proposes the next action to the user based on the output information.

[0110] As a result, the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment can understand what action a user who has entered a search query should take next, thereby improving usability.

[0111] Furthermore, in the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment, for example, the providing unit 43 provides account information in an order based on the relationship between the search query and the keywords specified by the account administrator. The providing unit 43 also provides account information in an order based on the relationship between the search query and the description text about the account. The providing unit 43 also provides account information in an order based on the relationship between the user's attributes and the attributes specified by the account administrator. The providing unit 43 also provides account information in an order based on the usage fees paid by the account administrator to the messaging service.

[0112] As a result, the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment can provide account information in an order according to various criteria, and thus can provide account information according to various needs.

[0113] [7. Hardware Configuration] Furthermore, the information processing device 10 according to each embodiment described above can be realized by a computer 1000 having a configuration such as that shown in Figure 8. The following explanation will use the information processing device 10 as an example. Figure 8 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the information processing device 10. The computer 1000 has a CPU 1100, ROM 1200, RAM 1300, HDD 1400, communication interface (I / F) 1500, input / output interface (I / F) 1600, and media interface (I / F) 1700.

[0114] The CPU 1100 operates based on programs stored in the ROM 1200 or HDD 1400, and controls various parts. The ROM 1200 stores boot programs executed by the CPU 1100 when the computer 1000 starts up, as well as programs that depend on the computer 1000's hardware.

[0115] The HDD 1400 stores programs executed by the CPU 1100, as well as data used by such programs. The communication interface 1500 receives data from other devices via the communication network 500 (corresponding to network N in this embodiment) and sends it to the CPU 1100, and also transmits data generated by the CPU 1100 to other devices via the communication network 500.

[0116] The CPU 1100 controls output devices such as displays and printers, and input devices such as keyboards and mice, via the input / output interface 1600. The CPU 1100 acquires data from input devices via the input / output interface 1600. The CPU 1100 also outputs the data it generates to output devices via the input / output interface 1600.

[0117] The media interface 1700 reads a program or data stored in the recording medium 1800 and provides it to the CPU 1100 via the RAM 1300. The CPU 1100 loads the program from the recording medium 1800 onto the RAM 1300 via the media interface 1700 and executes the loaded program. The recording medium 1800 is, for example, an optical recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) or PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory.

[0118] For example, when computer 1000 functions as information processing device 10, the CPU 1100 of computer 1000 realizes the functions of control unit 40 by executing programs loaded on RAM 1300. The HDD 1400 stores the data in the storage device of information processing device 10. The CPU 1100 of computer 1000 reads and executes these programs from the recording medium 1800, but as another example, these programs may be obtained from other devices via a predetermined communication network.

[0119] [8. Other] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the 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.

[0120] Furthermore, the configuration of the aforementioned information processing device 10 can be flexibly changed, for example, by calling external platforms, etc., via APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) or network computing, depending on the function.

[0121] Furthermore, the term "part" in the claims can be replaced with "means," "circuit," etc. For example, "reception part" can be replaced with "reception means" or "reception circuit." [Explanation of Symbols]

[0122] 10 Information Processing Devices 20 Communications Department 30 Storage section 31 OA Information Database 32 User Information Database 33 Model Databases 40 Control Unit 41 Reception Department 42 Specific part 43 Providing Department 44 Presentation section 45 Transmitter 46 Settings Section 100 User Terminals 200 Administrator terminals 300 service servers

Claims

1. A reception unit that receives search queries from users in a designated search service, An account corresponding to the search query received by the reception unit, and an identification unit that identifies the account in a predetermined message service, A providing unit provides the user with account information indicating the account identified by the identifying unit as a search result corresponding to the search query. An information processing device characterized by having the following features.

2. The specified part is, Identify the account linked to the user in the aforementioned messaging service. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The specified part is, Identify the account linked to the user in the messaging service that has been blocked by the user. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

4. The specified part is, Identify the account linked to the user in the messaging service that has been muted by the user. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

5. The specified part is, Identifying accounts that are not associated with the user in the aforementioned messaging service The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

6. The aforementioned supply unit is, Provide the account information that indicates the account authorized by the user to be provided as a search result. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

7. The aforementioned supply unit is, A model trained to generate answers to input questions is input with the search query and an instruction sentence that tells the model to output the user's next action from the search query, and based on the output information, it is further provided with suggestion information that proposes the user's next action. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

8. The aforementioned supply unit is, The account information is provided in an order based on the relevance between the search query and the keywords specified by the account administrator. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

9. The aforementioned supply unit is, The account information is provided in an order based on the relevance between the search query and the description of the account. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

10. The aforementioned supply unit is, The account information is provided in an order based on the relationship between the user's attributes and the attributes specified by the account administrator. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

11. The aforementioned supply unit is, The account information will be provided in the order based on the usage fees paid by the administrator of the account to the messaging service. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

12. The aforementioned supply unit is, As the account information, the description of the account that corresponds to the search query is provided. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

13. When the account information is selected by the user, the display unit presents the account indicated by the selected account information to the user via the messaging service. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the features.

14. When the account information is selected by the user, the transmission unit sends the search query via the message service to the account indicated by the selected account information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the features.

15. When the aforementioned account information is provided to the user, the first setting unit sets a fee for the administrator of the account for providing the account information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the features.

16. A second setting unit sets a fee for providing the account information to the account administrator, in accordance with the conversion of the user to whom the account information was provided. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising the features.

17. The second setting unit is, In accordance with the user conversion rate in the messaging service, a fee will be set for the account administrator for providing the account information. The information processing apparatus according to feature 16.

18. A method of information processing performed by a computer, A reception process in a designated search service where search queries are received from users, A process to identify an account in a predetermined messaging service that corresponds to the search query received in the aforementioned reception process, A provision step provides the user with account information indicating the account identified by the specified step as a search result corresponding to the search query. An information processing method characterized by including

19. A procedure for receiving search queries from users in a designated search service, An identification procedure for identifying an account in a predetermined messaging service that corresponds to the search query received by the aforementioned reception procedure, A provision procedure for providing the user with account information indicating the account identified by the aforementioned identification procedure as a search result corresponding to the search query, and An information processing program characterized by causing a computer to execute it.

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