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

Abstract

To promote improved sales efficiency for businesses providing shopping assistance services. [Solution] The information processing device according to the present invention comprises a display unit, a payment unit, and a provision unit. The display unit displays candidate users for shopping assistance for the requesting user based on the registered member user information. The payment unit performs payment for the shopping assistance linked to the requesting user's account, according to the actions of the user selected as the shopping assistance provider from among the candidate users. The provision unit provides the shopping assistance provider with benefits that can be used at the store where the shopping assistance for the requesting user was performed.

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] In recent years, shopping proxy services that substitute shopping at retail stores such as supermarkets have become widespread. As an example of the technology for such shopping proxy services, for example, when a requester who requests the proxy designates a purchasing store, a proxy who can perform shopping proxy based on the location information of the purchasing store is selected, and a technology for instructing the purchase of goods 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 conventional technology, for example, it is not possible to meet the demand for attracting customers of a business operator providing a shopping proxy service, and thus it has not been possible to promote the improvement of the sales promotion efficiency of the business operator providing the shopping proxy service.

[0005] The present application has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to promote the improvement of the sales promotion efficiency of a business operator providing a shopping proxy service.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing device according to the present application is characterized by comprising: a display unit that displays candidate users for shopping assistance for a requesting user based on member registration user information; a settlement unit that settles the shopping assistance linked to the requesting user's account according to the actions of the user selected as the agent from among the candidate users; and a provision unit that provides the agent user with benefits that can be used at the store where the shopping assistance for the requesting user was performed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the system, it has the effect of promoting improved sales efficiency for businesses that provide shopping assistance services. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of information processing according to the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram (1) showing an example of a UI screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is Figure (2), which shows an example of a UI screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram (3) showing an example of a UI screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of a client terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the configuration of a proxy terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the configuration of a service provider server according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of a product information storage unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of a member registration user information storage unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of a shopping assistance request information storage unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of a member registration user behavior information storage unit according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the information processing procedure according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that implements the functions of an information processing device. [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] In recent years, shopping assistance services that handle grocery shopping for customers have become popular. Online supermarkets are one example; when a user purchases goods from an online supermarket, the retail store itself selects and delivers the items for the user who made the request.

[0011] In online supermarket businesses like this, operating costs can be high because they handle everything from product selection to delivery. Furthermore, for users of online supermarkets, the shipping and handling fees can be high if they use the service daily, and deliveries are limited to the online supermarket's delivery schedule, which can lead to insufficient customer satisfaction.

[0012] In order to relieve the burden on business operators (retail stores) in such online supermarket businesses, there is known a technology for entrusting a third party who is not a business operator of a retail store to perform shopping on behalf of them. As an example, for instance, when the requester who entrusts the proxy designates the purchase destination store, there is known a technology for selecting a proxy who can perform shopping on behalf of them based on the location information of the purchase destination store and instructing the purchase of goods. However, in such a conventional technology, it is not possible to connect members of a certain store and entrust the proxy to the members of that store, so it has not been possible to promote the improvement of sales promotion efficiency by surrounding customers.

[0013] The present application has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to promote the improvement of the sales promotion efficiency of a business operator who provides a shopping proxy service.

[0014] (Embodiment) [1. Configuration of Information Processing System] The information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 includes a requester terminal 10, a proxy terminal 20, an information processing device 100, and a business operator server 200. The requester terminal 10, the proxy terminal 20, the information processing device 100, and the business operator server 200 are communicably connected by wire or wirelessly via a predetermined communication network (network N). FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment.

[0015] The requester terminal 10 is, for example, an information processing device used by a user (user on the requester side) who requests shopping on behalf of them using a shopping proxy service of a certain specific supermarket. The user who uses the requester terminal 10 is, for example, a user who has registered as a member of a shopping proxy service of a certain specific supermarket. For example, due to reasons such as being too busy to go to the supermarket frequently, unable to go shopping due to a sudden illness of a family member, high shipping and handling fees for online supermarkets, and wanting to request immediately, the user is considering using the shopping proxy service.

[0016] The agent terminal 20 is an information processing device used by a user (an agent user) who performs shopping on behalf of others using a shopping assistance service of a particular supermarket. The user of the agent terminal 20 is also a user who is registered as a member of a shopping assistance service of a particular supermarket. For example, a user who, while doing their own shopping at a particular supermarket, is willing to do the shopping for a client if requested. For example, a user who, while doing their own shopping at a particular supermarket, is willing to do the shopping for a client at the same time. For example, a user who, due to recent price increases, is struggling financially but does not have time for part-time work and wishes that everyday shopping would become more affordable.

[0017] Whether a user acts as the client or the agent depends on the user. In the embodiment described below, for the sake of explanation, the client terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 are described as separate devices, but in reality, there is no distinction and they are integrated.

[0018] Both the client terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 can be any device as long as they can perform the processing in the embodiment. Furthermore, both the client terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 can be smartphones, tablet devices, notebook PCs, desktop PCs, mobile phones, PDAs, and other devices. Figure 2 shows the case where both the client terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 are smartphones.

[0019] Both the client terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 are, for example, smart devices such as smartphones and tablets, and are mobile terminal devices capable of communicating with any server device via wireless communication networks such as 4G-5G (Generation) or LTE (Long Term Evolution). Furthermore, both the client terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 have screens such as liquid crystal displays with touch panel functionality, and may accept various operations on displayed data such as content from the user, such as tapping, sliding, and scrolling, using a finger or stylus. In Figure 2, the client terminal 10 is used by user U1, and the agent terminal 20 is used by user U21.

[0020] The information processing device 100 is an information processing device aimed at promoting improved sales efficiency for businesses providing shopping assistance services, and can be any device as long as it can realize the processing in the embodiment. For example, the information processing device 100 is an information processing device aimed at appropriately responding to the needs of businesses such as wanting to retain customers, reduce the operating costs of online supermarket businesses, increase customer satisfaction, and improve sales efficiency. The information processing device 100 can be realized, for example, by a server device or cloud system of a business providing shopping assistance services.

[0021] The business server 200 is an information processing device intended for real-time management of product information (such as price and inventory levels) of retail stores of a business that provides shopping assistance services, and can be any device as long as it can realize the processing described in the embodiment. The business server 200 can be implemented, for example, by a server device of the business that provides shopping assistance services or by a cloud system.

[0022] In Figure 1, the information processing device 100 and the service provider server 200 are shown as separate devices, but the information processing device 100 and the service provider server 200 may be integrated. Also, as mentioned above, whether a user is on the client side or the agent side depends on the user. In Figure 1, the client terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 are shown as separate devices, but the client terminal 10 and the agent terminal 20 may be integrated.

[0023] [2. An example of information processing] In the embodiment described below, users U1, U11 to U14, and U21 to U24 are users who are registered members of the shopping assistance service of Super P1 (Super P1 Mart) (they may also be users who are registered members of Super P1). When users U1, U11 to U14, and U21 to U24 register activity information (for example, schedule information or location information), that registered information is made visible to other users on a predetermined application (service). For example, when user U21 registers activity information such as "I have a shopping appointment this afternoon," that information is made visible to other users (in this case, users U1, U11 to U14, and users U22 to U24, etc.) on the application.

[0024] Furthermore, when users U1, U11 through U14, and U21 through U24 provide behavioral information, that information will be made visible to other users on a designated application. For example, if user U21 provides their current location information in real time, that information will be made visible to other users on the application in real time.

[0025] For example, if another user, User U1, sees this information and requests User U21 to do the shopping for them, and User U21 agrees, then a shopping request is made between User U1 and User U21.

[0026] Users U1, U11 through U14, and U21 through U24 may use the open chat function to communicate details of their shopping assistance requests. For example, when user U1 makes a request to user U21, they may connect the open chats registered by user U1 and user U21 to communicate details of the shopping assistance request.

[0027] In the embodiment described below, User U1 is the user requesting shopping assistance, and Users U21 to U24 are users who are currently shopping at Supermarket P1 or who plan to shop at Supermarket P1. For this reason, Users U21 to U24 are displayed as selectable on the app. If User U1 selects User U21, for example, an open chat is established to enable communication with User U21, and if User U21 accepts User U1's shopping assistance request, the shopping assistance request is established between User U1 and User U21. In the embodiment described below, the case in which User U1 selects User U21 and User U21 accepts is used as an example. In the embodiment described below, the case in which the retail store where User U1 wants to shop is Supermarket P1 is used as an example.

[0028] Figure 2 shows an example of information processing according to the embodiment. User U1 selects Supermarket P1 as the retail store where they want to shop in order to request shopping assistance from another user (step S11). By allowing user U1 to select the retail store where they want to shop first, the quality of the goods is guaranteed for user U1. When user U1 selects Supermarket P1, map information of the surrounding area including Supermarket P1 is displayed. The route from user U1's location to Supermarket P1 is also displayed on the map. In addition, users who are registered as members of Supermarket P1's shopping assistance service (or users who are registered as members of Supermarket P1) are displayed on the map. For example, behavioral information of users who are registered as members of Supermarket P1's shopping assistance service is collected, and candidate users who can be requested to shop on behalf of others are displayed on the map (step S12).

[0029] Figure 3 is Figure (1) showing an example of a UI screen according to the embodiment. Screen G1 is a service screen linked to the official account of Super P1 on a predetermined application. Users U11 to U14 are users who wish to request shopping assistance, just like user U1. The text "HELP" is displayed next to each user's mark from U11 to U14. Users U21 to U24 are candidates who can request shopping assistance. The text "OK" is displayed next to each user's mark from U21 to U24 along with a bicycle icon. In addition, user U1's location information is displayed with an arrow mark, and the route from user U1's location to Super P1 is colored and displayed.

[0030] User U1 selects User U21 from the users displayed on the map on the UI screen shown in Figure 3 as the user to request shopping assistance from (Step S13). When User U1 selects User U21, an open chat window appears where User U1 can chat with User U21 (see Figure 4). Figure 4 is an example of the UI screen according to the embodiment (Figure (2)). In Figure 4, the screen G1 shown in Figure 3 includes an open chat field. In this open chat field, User U1 can chat with User U21. For example, if User U1 enters "Can I ask you to get eggs and milk?" and "Can you do it by around 5 PM?", and User U21 agrees, the shopping assistance request is completed. In other words, User U21 is determined to be the shopping assistance provider.

[0031] In step S12, if user U21 is selected and U21 agrees, an open chat may be displayed. However, if user U21 wants to request shopping assistance for heavy items such as water or rice, or if user U21 wants to refuse the request depending on the contents of the shopping assistance, it is envisioned that the contents of user U1's shopping assistance request will be made available in advance via an open chat or similar means. Alternatively, in step S12, if user U21 is selected, the contents of user U1's shopping assistance request will be displayed in a way that allows users to understand them, and if user U21 agrees, an open chat will be displayed.

[0032] When User U21 agrees to User U1's request to shop on their behalf, they are designated as the shopper. User U21 does their own shopping at Supermarket P1, and also does shopping for User U1 (Step S14). In this process, User U21 may communicate with User U1 via open chat while shopping for User U1. For example, User U21 may select items for User U1's shopping while being discerning, or they may send photos of the items to User U1 to confirm the condition of the vegetables, etc., while shopping. In this way, User U21 selects items for User U1's shopping.

[0033] Once User U21 has selected all the items for User U1's shopping service, they proceed to the checkout and pay for them along with their own purchases. For example, User U21 may pay using electronic payment via the shopping service app, or they may pay using electronic payment via a dedicated payment app linked to the shopping service app. Furthermore, User U21 may pay for the shopping service and their own purchases together in one lump sum, or they may pay for them separately.

[0034] When user U21 makes a payment for user U1's shopping service (step S15), user U1 makes a payment to supermarket P1. For example, the payment is made based on the payment information (payment method) that user U1 has registered in advance for their shopping service. For example, the payment may be made from a bank account linked to user U1's account, or from electronic money (such as electronic points) pooled in user U1's account.

[0035] When user U21 delivers user U1's shopping to the designated location of user U1 and user U1 confirms that there is no problem with the shopping and operates the "Complete" button (for example, taps or clicks), the shopping agent service is completed. And when the shopping agent service is completed, privileges available (applicable) at supermarket P1 (such as coupons and discount vouchers) are provided to user U21 (step S16). For example, privileges available for next-time use at supermarket P1 are provided. For example, a coupon worth 300 yen available for next-time use is provided. For example, a coupon available for purchasing a specific product according to the attributes of user U21 is provided.

[0036] Out of this 300 yen, for example, let user U1 bear half of it, i.e., 150 yen, and let supermarket P1 bear the remaining half, i.e., 150 yen. For user U1, even if they have to bear 150 yen, it is still less costly than bearing delivery fees and handling fees. For supermarket P1, even if it has to bear 150 yen, it is still less costly than bearing the operating costs from product selection to delivery. Therefore, it is expected that the promotional effect will be enhanced. Also, for user U21, by accepting the shopping agent service, coupons and the like available at supermarket P1 are provided. So, shopping at supermarket P1 becomes cheaper, and it is expected that the promotional effect on supermarket P1 will be enhanced.

[0037] In recent years, gift cards available only at certain retail stores have become popular. Therefore, such gift cards (that is, store-specific money vouchers available at supermarket P1) may be provided as coupons available at supermarket P1. Hereinafter, variations of the information processing according to the above embodiment will be described.

[0038] (Variation 1 of Information Processing: Changes in Offered Privileges According to Products) In the above embodiment, we explained an example where, when user U21 makes a payment for shopping on behalf of user U1, user U21 is provided with benefits usable at Super P1. However, the benefits provided may vary depending on the items being purchased. As mentioned above, there are cases where a client wants to request shopping for heavy items such as water or rice, and it is anticipated that if the same benefits are offered uniformly in such cases, the request may be more likely to be refused. For this reason, the benefits provided may be changed when a specific product is included in the shopping request, or the benefits may be changed depending on the products included in the shopping request. For example, depending on the total weight of the products included in the shopping request, the benefits may be changed from 300 yen to 500 yen if a certain predetermined threshold is exceeded, or the benefits may be changed from 300 yen to 800 yen using a multi-stage threshold.

[0039] If the value of the offered benefit exceeds a certain threshold, for example, from 300 yen to 500 yen, then of this 500 yen, for example, half (250 yen) may be borne by user U1 and the remaining half (250 yen) by supermarket P1, or half of the base 300 yen (150 yen) may be borne by supermarket P1 and the remaining 350 yen may be borne by user U1. In this way, the value of the offer to user U21 may be changed according to the shopping assistance provided, and the amount borne by user U1 may also be changed.

[0040] (Variations in Information Processing 2: Evaluation of Shopping Assistance Services) In the above embodiment, we explained an example where User U21 delivers User U1's purchases to a location specified by User U1, and the shopping service is completed when User U1 confirms that there are no problems with the purchases. However, the system may also be designed to allow mutual evaluation. As mentioned above, if User U21 selects products for User U1 based on their own judgment, User U21's judgment becomes important. Also, since the system is based on the premise that User U21 is doing User U1's shopping merely as an afterthought while doing their own shopping, excessive demands from User U1 are undesirable. For this reason, the system may also be designed to allow mutual evaluation, such as User U1 evaluating User U21 as a shopping agent after the shopping service is completed, and User U21 evaluating User U1 as a shopping service requester.

[0041] In a system where shopping assistance can be evaluated in this way, the user icons on screen G1 may include evaluation information. For example, each user icon for users U11 through U14 may display evaluation information as a shopping assistance provider along with the text "HELP". Also, for example, each user icon for users U21 through U24 may display evaluation information as a shopping assistance requester along with a bicycle icon and the text "OK". For example, after the shopping assistance is completed, if user U1 evaluates user U21 as a shopping assistance provider, the evaluation information displayed on user U21's icon on screen G1 will be updated. If user U21 evaluates user U1 as a shopping assistance requester, the evaluation information displayed on user U1's icon on screen G1 will be updated. The updated evaluation information will then be made viewable by users who are registered members of Super P1's shopping assistance service.

[0042] (Information Processing Variation 3: Product Selection and Price Display) In the above embodiment, when user U1 selects Supermarket P1, the example shown is that users registered as members of Supermarket P1's shopping assistance service are displayed on the map along with map information of the surrounding area including Supermarket P1. However, the product selection screen may be displayed before such map information (corresponding to screen G1) is displayed. For example, when user U1 selects Supermarket P1, the user may transition to the product selection screen of Supermarket P1 (see Figure 5). For example, the user may transition to the online supermarket screen of Supermarket P1, or to a product selection screen linked to the online supermarket of Supermarket P1. Figure 5 is a diagram (3) showing an example of a UI screen according to the embodiment.

[0043] Screen G3 displays product information, including the price of the product, along with a product selection field. User U1 selects a product by checking the box in the product selection field. When User U1 clicks the "Add to Cart" button, the product is added to the cart and the total price is displayed. If User U1 changes the box in the product selection field and clicks the "Add to Cart" button again, the total price is updated and the updated total price is displayed. User U1 may then click the "Complete" button to proceed to screen G1. By providing this product selection screen display function, User U1 can know the payment amount for the shopping service in advance. Then, in step S14, when User U21 settles User U1's shopping service payment, this payment amount is made. Note that the display of this product selection field is not limited to when User U1 selects Super P1, but may be performed at any stage in the above embodiment.

[0044] (Information processing variation 4: Discounts when paying for shopping assistance) In the above embodiment, we explained an example where, after user U1 completes the shopping service by clicking the "Complete" button, user U21 is provided with benefits available at Super P1. However, in step S14, user U21 may receive a discount on their own purchase when settling user U1's shopping service payment. In other words, benefits may be offered to make user U1's purchase payment cheaper when settling the shopping service payment, resulting in a discount on the payment.

[0045] (Variation 5 of information processing: Provision of promotional information) In the above embodiment, the predetermined application on screen G1 may include various commerce functions (such as promotional functions), and for example, promotional information for Super P1 (such as advertisements and flyers) may be provided to the user via the application. For example, specific promotional information corresponding to the user who made the shopping request (the requester) and the user who accepted the shopping request (the agent) may be provided.

[0046] [3. Configuration of the client's terminal] Next, the configuration of the client terminal 10 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the client terminal 10 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the client terminal 10 has a communication unit 11, an input unit 12, an output unit 13, and a control unit 14.

[0047] (Communications Section 11) The communication unit 11 is implemented, for example, by a NIC (Network Interface Card). The communication unit 11 is connected to a predetermined network N by wire or wireless connection and sends and receives information to and from the information processing device 100 via the predetermined network N.

[0048] (Input section 12) The input unit 12 accepts various operations from the user (the user on the requesting side). In Figure 2, it accepts various operations from user U1. For example, the input unit 12 may accept various operations from the user via the display surface using a touch panel function. Alternatively, the input unit 12 may accept various operations from buttons provided on the requesting terminal 10, or from a keyboard or mouse connected to the requesting terminal 10.

[0049] (Output section 13) The output unit 13 is a display screen for a tablet terminal, for example, which is implemented using a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and is a display device for displaying various information. For example, the output unit 13 displays information transmitted from the information processing device 100. For example, the output unit 13 displays user information of candidates who can be requested to do the shopping for them.

[0050] (Control Unit 14) The control unit 14 is, for example, a controller, and is implemented by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit) executing various programs stored in the storage device inside the client terminal 10 using RAM (Random Access Memory) as the working area. For example, these various programs include application programs installed on the client terminal 10. For example, these various programs include application programs that display information transmitted from the information processing device 100. The control unit 14 is also implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0051] As shown in Figure 6, the control unit 14 has a receiving unit 141 and a transmitting unit 142, and realizes or executes the information processing operations described below.

[0052] (Receiver 141) The receiving unit 141 receives information transmitted from, for example, the information processing device 100. For example, the receiving unit 141 receives user information of candidates who can be requested to shop on behalf of others. For example, the receiving unit 141 receives user information of candidates who can be requested to shop on behalf of others at a retail store selected by the user.

[0053] (Transmitter 142) The transmitting unit 142 transmits information to, for example, the information processing device 100. For example, the transmitting unit 142 transmits information regarding a shopping request. For example, the transmitting unit 142 transmits information regarding a shopping request at a retail store selected by the user.

[0054] [4. Configuration of the proxy terminal] Next, the configuration of the proxy terminal 20 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 7. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the proxy terminal 20 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 7, the proxy terminal 20 has a communication unit 21, an input unit 22, an output unit 23, and a control unit 24.

[0055] (Communications Section 21) The communication unit 21 is implemented, for example, by a NIC. The communication unit 21 is connected to a predetermined network N by wire or wireless connection and sends and receives information to and from the information processing device 100, etc., via the predetermined network N.

[0056] (Input section 22) The input unit 22 accepts various operations from the user (the user on the proxy side). In Figure 2, it accepts various operations from user U21. For example, the input unit 22 may accept various operations from the user via the display surface using a touch panel function. Alternatively, the input unit 22 may accept various operations from buttons provided on the proxy terminal 20, or from a keyboard or mouse connected to the proxy terminal 20.

[0057] (Output section 23) The output unit 23 is a display screen for a tablet terminal, for example, which is implemented using a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display, and is a display device for displaying various types of information. For example, the output unit 23 displays information transmitted from the information processing device 100. For example, the output unit 23 displays shopping assistance request information.

[0058] (Control Unit 24) The control unit 24 is, for example, a controller, and is implemented by a CPU or MPU executing various programs stored in the storage device inside the proxy terminal 20 using RAM as the working area. For example, these various programs include application programs installed on the proxy terminal 20. For example, these various programs include application programs that display information transmitted from the information processing device 100. The control unit 24 is also implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0059] As shown in Figure 7, the control unit 24 has a receiving unit 241 and a transmitting unit 242, and realizes or executes the information processing operations described below.

[0060] (Receiving unit 241) The receiving unit 241 receives information transmitted from, for example, the information processing device 100. For example, the receiving unit 241 receives information requesting shopping assistance. For example, the receiving unit 241 receives information requesting shopping assistance at a designated retail store. For example, the receiving unit 241 receives information requesting shopping assistance at a retail store where the user is registered as a member.

[0061] (Transmitter 242) The transmitting unit 242 transmits information to, for example, the information processing device 100. For example, the transmitting unit 242 transmits shopping schedule information. For example, the transmitting unit 242 transmits shopping schedule information at a predetermined retail store. For example, the transmitting unit 242 transmits shopping schedule information at a retail store where the user is registered as a member. The transmitting unit 242 also transmits, for example, user activity information and location information. For example, the transmitting unit 242 transmits user activity information and location information related to the shopping schedule.

[0062] [5. Configuration of the service provider's servers] Next, the configuration of the carrier server 200 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the carrier server 200 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, the carrier server 200 has a communication unit 210, a storage unit 220, and a control unit 230. The carrier server 200 may also have an input unit (for example, a keyboard or mouse) that accepts various operations from the administrator of the carrier server 200, and a display unit (for example, a liquid crystal display) for displaying various information.

[0063] (Communications Section 210) The communication unit 210 is implemented, for example, by a NIC. The communication unit 210 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless connection and sends and receives information to and from the client terminal 10 via the network N.

[0064] (Storage unit 220) The storage unit 220 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM and flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks and optical discs. As shown in Figure 8, the storage unit 220 has a product information storage unit 221 and a member registration user information storage unit 222.

[0065] The product information storage unit 221 stores product information. Here, Figure 9 shows an example of the product information storage unit 221 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 9, the product information storage unit 221 has items such as "product ID" and "product information".

[0066] "Product ID" indicates identification information used to identify a product. "Product Information" indicates product information. In the example shown in Figure 9, conceptual information such as "Product Information #1" and "Product Information #2" is stored in "Product Information," but in reality, text data such as the product name, category, current product price, and inventory quantity are stored.

[0067] The registered user information storage unit 222 stores the user information of the registered user. Here, Figure 10 shows an example of the registered user information storage unit 222 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, the registered user information storage unit 222 has items such as "registered user ID" and "user information".

[0068] The "Registered User ID" indicates identification information used to identify a registered user. "User Information" indicates the user information of a registered user. In the example shown in Figure 10, conceptual information such as "User Information #1" and "User Information #2" is stored in "User Information," but in reality, text data such as name, attributes, and current place of residence are stored.

[0069] (Control unit 230) The control unit 230 is a controller, and is implemented, for example, by a CPU or MPU executing various programs stored in the storage device inside the operator server 200 using RAM as the working area. Alternatively, the control unit 230 can be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0070] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 230 has a receiving unit 231 and a transmitting unit 232, and realizes or executes the information processing operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 230 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 8, and other configurations are also acceptable as long as they perform the information processing described later.

[0071] (Receiving unit 231) The receiving unit 231 receives information transmitted from, for example, the client terminal 10. For example, the receiving unit 231 receives a request for product information.

[0072] (Transmitter 232) The transmitting unit 232 transmits information to, for example, the client terminal 10. For example, the transmitting unit 232 transmits current product information.

[0073] [6. Configuration of the Information Processing Device] Next, the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 11. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 11, the information processing device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. The information processing device 100 may also have an input unit that receives various operations from the administrator of the information processing device 100, and a display unit for displaying various information.

[0074] (Communications Department 110) The communication unit 110 is implemented, for example, by a NIC. The communication unit 110 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless connection and sends and receives information to and from the client terminal 10 via the network N.

[0075] (Storage unit 120) The storage unit 120 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM and flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks and optical discs. As shown in Figure 11, the storage unit 120 has a shopping assistance request information storage unit 121 and a member registration user behavior information storage unit 122.

[0076] The shopping assistance request information storage unit 121 stores shopping assistance request information. Here, Figure 12 shows an example of the shopping assistance request information storage unit 121 according to the embodiment. As shown in Figure 12, the shopping assistance request information storage unit 121 has items such as "Shopping Assistance Request ID", "Requester ID", "Assistant ID", and "Shopping Assistance Details".

[0077] The "Shopping Assistance Request ID" indicates identification information used to identify the shopping assistance request. The "Requester ID" indicates identification information used to identify the person requesting the shopping assistance. The "Assistant ID" indicates identification information used to identify the person assigned to the shopping assistance request. The "Shopping Assistance Details" indicates the details of the shopping assistance. The number in parentheses in the shopping assistance details indicates the quantity of the items the requester wants. For example, "Eggs (1)" means that the requester wants one pack of eggs.

[0078] The registered user behavior information storage unit 122 stores the behavior information of registered users. Here, Figure 13 shows an example of the registered user behavior information storage unit 122 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 13, the registered user behavior information storage unit 122 has items such as "registered user ID" and "behavior information".

[0079] "Registered User ID" indicates identification information used to identify a registered user. "Behavioral Information" indicates the behavioral information of a registered user (for example, planned activity information or planned location information).

[0080] (Control unit 130) The control unit 130 is a controller, and is implemented, for example, by a CPU or MPU executing various programs stored in the memory device inside the information processing device 100 using RAM as the working area. Alternatively, the control unit 130 can be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0081] As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 130 includes an acquisition unit 131, a display unit 132, a determination unit 133, a settlement unit 134, and a provision unit 135, and realizes or executes the information processing operations described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 11, and other configurations are also acceptable as long as they perform the information processing described later.

[0082] (Acquisition part 131) The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 also stores the acquired information in the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 also acquires various information from external information processing devices. The acquisition unit 131 also acquires various information from other information processing devices such as the client terminal 10.

[0083] The acquisition unit 131 acquires, for example, member registration user information. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the action information of member registration users. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires (or collects) the action information of users who have registered for the shopping proxy service at a predetermined retail store. Also, the acquisition unit 131 acquires, for example, shopping proxy request information.

[0084] (Display unit 132) The display unit 132 displays, for example, user information of candidates who can be requested for shopping proxy based on the member registration user information acquired by the acquisition unit 131. For example, the display unit 132 displays the proxy candidates for the shopping proxy of the requester who is a member of the store. For example, the display unit 132 selects and displays proxy candidates from among the members of the store.

[0085] (Decision unit 133) The decision unit 133 determines, for example, the proxy for the shopping proxy of the requester. For example, the decision unit 133 determines the proxy for the shopping proxy of the requester according to the operation of the requester. For example, the decision unit 133 determines the candidate selected by the requester from among the proxy candidates displayed by the display unit 132 as the proxy.

[0086] (Settlement unit 134) The settlement unit 134 performs the settlement of the shopping proxy linked to the requester's account according to the actions of the proxy determined by the decision unit 133. For example, the settlement unit 134 performs the settlement based on the payment information registered by the requester for his / her own shopping proxy.

[0087] (Provision unit 135) The provision unit 135 provides, for example, benefits available at the store where the proxy has performed the shopping proxy for the requester. For example, the provision unit 135 provides benefits according to the operation of completion of the shopping proxy of the requester. Also, for example, the provision unit 135 provides benefits for reducing the payment for the proxy's shopping at the time of settlement of the shopping proxy.

[0088] [7. Information processing flow] Next, the information processing procedure by the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment will be explained using Figure 14. Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the information processing procedure by the information processing system according to the embodiment.

[0089] As shown in Figure 14, the information processing device 100 displays the candidates for shopping assistance (corresponding to candidate users) for the requester (corresponding to the requesting user) (step S101). The information processing device 100 selects a shopping assistance provider (corresponding to the assistance user) from among the candidates (step S102). The information processing device 100 processes the payment for the shopping assistance according to the actions of the shopping assistance provider (step S103). The information processing device 100 provides the shopping assistance provider with benefits that can be used at the shopping assistance store (step S104).

[0090] [8. Effects] As described above, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment includes a display unit 132, a payment unit 134, and a provision unit 135. The display unit 132 displays candidate users for shopping assistance for the requesting user based on the registered member user information. The payment unit 134 makes a payment for the shopping assistance linked to the requesting user's account, according to the actions of the user who is selected as the shopping assistance provider from among the candidate users. The provision unit 135 provides the shopping assistance provider with benefits that can be used at the store where the shopping assistance for the requesting user was performed.

[0091] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to this embodiment can, for example, promote the improvement of sales promotion efficiency for businesses that provide shopping assistance services.

[0092] Furthermore, the display unit 132 selects and displays potential users from among the store's registered users to act as a shopping agent for the requesting user, who is a registered member of the store, based on the store's registered user information.

[0093] As a result, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can, for example, appropriately select a candidate user for shopping assistance from among the registered members of the store in question.

[0094] In addition, the display unit 132 selects and displays a proxy candidate user based on the behavior information of the member-registered user.

[0095] Thereby, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can display a proxy candidate user in consideration of, for example, the behavior information of the member-registered user.

[0096] In addition, the settlement unit 134 performs the settlement of shopping proxy according to the behavior of the proxy user determined according to the selection of the requesting user.

[0097] Thereby, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can, for example, freely select a proxy user from among the proxy candidate users.

[0098] In addition, the settlement unit 134 performs settlement based on the payment information registered by the requesting user for his / her own shopping proxy.

[0099] Thereby, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can, for example, appropriately perform settlement with the payment information registered in advance by the requesting user.

[0100] In addition, the providing unit 135 provides a privilege for reducing the payment of the shopping of the proxy user at the time of settlement of shopping proxy.

[0101] <e000393>Thereby, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can, for example, enhance the interest of the proxy user in shopping proxy and promote the improvement of the sales promotion effect.

[0102] In addition, the providing unit 135 provides a privilege according to the operation of completion of the shopping proxy of the requesting user.

[0103] Thereby, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can, for example, enhance the interest of the proxy user in shopping proxy and promote the improvement of the sales promotion effect.

[0104] 〔9. Hardware Configuration〕 Furthermore, the information processing device 100 according to the above-described embodiment is realized by a computer 1000 having the configuration shown in Figure 15. Figure 15 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the information processing device 100. The computer 1000 has a CPU 1100, RAM 1200, ROM 1300, HDD 1400, communication interface (I / F) 1500, input / output interface (I / F) 1600, and media interface (I / F) 1700.

[0105] The CPU 1100 operates based on programs stored in the ROM 1300 or HDD 1400, and controls various parts. The ROM 1300 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.

[0106] The HDD1400 stores programs executed by the CPU1100, as well as data used by such programs. The communication interface1500 acquires data from other devices via a predetermined communication network and sends it to the CPU1100, and transmits data generated by the CPU1100 to other devices via the predetermined communication network.

[0107] 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 generated data to output devices via the input / output interface 1600.

[0108] 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 1200. The CPU 1100 loads the program from the recording medium 1800 onto the RAM 1200 via the media interface 1700 and executes the loaded program. The recording medium 1800 can be, 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), tape media, magnetic recording medium, or semiconductor memory.

[0109] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as an information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 realizes the functions of the control unit 130 by executing a program loaded on the RAM 1200. The CPU 1100 of the 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.

[0110] [10. Other] Furthermore, among 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 document 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] Furthermore, the embodiments described above can be combined as appropriate, as long as the processing content is not contradictory.

[0113] 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.

[0114] Furthermore, the terms "section, module, unit" mentioned above can be replaced with "means" or "circuit," etc. For example, the acquisition unit can be replaced with acquisition means or acquisition circuit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0115] 1. Information Processing System 10. Client terminal 11 Communications Department 12 Input section 13 Output section 14 Control Unit 20 Agent terminals 21 Communications Department 22 Input section 23 Output section 24 Control Unit 100 Information Processing Devices 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Shopping Assistance Request Information Storage Unit 122 Member Registration User Behavior Information Storage Unit 130 Control Unit 131 Acquisition Department 132 Display section 133 Decision Section 134 Payment Department 135 Provision Department 141 Receiving Unit 142 Transmitter 200 service provider servers 210 Communications Department 220 Storage section 221 Product information storage section 222 Member Registration User Information Storage Unit 230 Control Unit 231 Receiving Unit 232 Transmitter 241 Receiving Unit 242 Transmitter N Network

Claims

1. A display unit that shows potential users to act as a shopping agent for a requesting user based on the registered user information, A payment unit that processes the payment for the shopping service linked to the requesting user's account, in accordance with the actions of the proxy user selected from the aforementioned candidate users to act as the proxy; A provision unit that provides the aforementioned proxy user with benefits that can be used at the store where the shopping service was performed on behalf of the requesting user, An information processing device characterized by having the following features.

2. The aforementioned display unit is Based on the registered user information of the store, the system selects and displays potential users from among the store's registered users to act as a shopping agent for the requesting user, who is also a registered user of the store. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The aforementioned display unit is Based on the behavioral information of the registered member, select and display the candidate users who can act as substitutes. The information processing apparatus according to feature 2.

4. The aforementioned settlement unit, The payment for the shopping service will be processed according to the actions of the proxy user determined according to the selection of the requesting user. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

5. The aforementioned settlement unit, The aforementioned requesting user will make a payment based on the payment information they registered for their own shopping assistance. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

6. The aforementioned supply unit is, The aforementioned benefits are provided to make the payment for the shopping made by the shopping agent user at a discounted rate when settling the payment for the shopping agent service. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

7. The aforementioned supply unit is, The aforementioned benefits are provided in response to the user's completion of the shopping assistance service. The information processing apparatus according to feature 1.

8. A method of information processing performed by a computer, A display process that shows potential users who can act as a shopping agent for the requesting user based on the registered user information, A payment process is performed in which the payment for the shopping service linked to the requesting user's account is processed according to the actions of the proxy user who is selected as the proxy user from among the candidate users to act as the proxy user, A provision process that provides the aforementioned proxy user with benefits that can be used at the store where the shopping service was performed for the aforementioned requesting user, An information processing method characterized by including

9. A display procedure to show potential users who can act as a shopping agent for a requesting user, based on the registered user information, A payment procedure is provided to process the payment for the shopping service linked to the requesting user's account, in accordance with the actions of the user who is selected as the agent from among the candidate users to act as the agent, A procedure for providing the aforementioned proxy user with benefits that can be used at the store where the shopping service was performed for the requesting user, An information processing program characterized by causing a computer to execute it.

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