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

Abstract

To increase users' motivation to complete the stamp rally. [Solution] The information processing device performs the following processes: displaying multiple rally target candidates in a stamp rally along with a map; and creating a stamp sheet that includes multiple rally target candidates selected by the user from the multiple rally target candidates.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing method.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, as one of the methods for promoting the sale of products and the provision of services, there is a stamp rally. Conventionally, as a system for implementing this stamp rally, for example, a system for electronically implementing a stamp rally using an information processing terminal of a user (a participant in the stamp rally) has been proposed.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a rally system having a reception device, an electronic paper device, and a check device. In this rally system, when a participant in the stamp rally registers at the reception device, participant information for identifying the participant, a stamp identifier of the participant's favorite stamp, and map information indicating the positions of the checkpoints of the stamp rally are stored in the electronic paper device, and a map indicating the positions of the checkpoints is displayed on the electronic paper device. The participant carries the electronic paper device and travels around the checkpoint where the check device is placed. When the participant holds the electronic paper device up to the check device, the stamp identifier is transmitted to the check device. When the check device transmits an image of the stamp specified by the stamp identifier to the electronic paper device, the transmitted image of the stamp is displayed on the electronic paper device.

[0004] Also, Patent Document 2 discloses a stamp rally system having a terminal device and a rally server device. In this stamp rally system, a user makes an application to participate in the rally server device from the terminal device and acquires stamp issuance rally information. The terminal device automatically acquires rally information. When the rally information is acquired, at the terminal device, the stamp issuance rally information and the acquired rally information are compared, and when a predetermined relationship is satisfied, stamp issuance request information is automatically transmitted to the rally server. In the rally server device, a stamp is issued based on the received stamp issuance request information. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-191967 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-079650 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, regardless of which system is used as disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the targets of the stamp rally (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "rally targets") are predetermined by the organizer of the stamp rally, so the stamp rally can only be conducted for a limited number of targets. For example, if the rally targets do not match the user's hobbies and preferences and are far removed from the user's desires, the user's motivation to complete the stamp rally will decrease, and the original objective of promoting product sales or service provision cannot be achieved. Therefore, there is room for improvement in conventional stamp rally systems.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of the above points, and aims to increase users' motivation to complete stamp rallies. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, the present invention is characterized in that the information processing device performs the following processes: displaying the candidates for the stamp rally on a map and presenting them to the information processing terminal used by the user; and creating a stamp sheet that includes the rally target selected by the user from among the candidates for the stamp rally.

[0009] According to the present invention, a stamp sheet is created that includes the rally targets selected by the user. This allows the user to participate in a stamp rally that includes the rally targets they have selected, thereby increasing the user's motivation to participate in and complete the stamp rally.

[0010] Furthermore, potential rally locations are displayed on a map and shown to the user's information processing terminal. This allows users to intuitively select rally locations and create a flexible stamp rally based on their current location. Consequently, a highly convenient stamp rally can be realized for users. As a result, the completion rate of stamp rallies by users can be further improved. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to increase the user's motivation to complete the stamp rally. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram showing the general configuration of the information processing system. [Figure 2] This block diagram shows an example of the functional configuration of the management server, user terminals, and service provider terminals. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a management server. [Figure 4A] This is a process flow diagram showing the main steps in implementing a stamp rally. [Figure 4B] This is a process flow diagram showing the main steps in implementing a stamp rally. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the spot candidate list screen. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the spot candidate list screen. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the spot candidate list screen. [Figure 8] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a spot candidate information screen. [Figure 9] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a spot candidate list screen. [Figure 10] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a sheet screen. [Figure 11] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a spot list screen. [Figure 12] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a sheet screen. [Figure 13] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a spot list screen. [Figure 14] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a rally completion screen.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted.

[0014] <Configuration of Information Processing System 1> FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of the configuration of the information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0015] The information processing system 1 is a system for implementing a stamp rally. In the information processing system 1, a stamp sheet including spots selected by users participating in the stamp rally among spot candidates as rally target candidates is created. In other words, in the information processing system 1, a user's own stamp sheet is created. And the user visits each spot based on the stamp sheet to implement a stamp rally.

[0016] Information processing system 1 includes a management server 10, user terminals 20, and business operator terminals 30. The management server 10, user terminals 20, and business operator terminals 30 are configured to be connectable via a network 40. In this embodiment, for the sake of simplicity, only one management server 10, one user terminal 20, and one business operator terminal 30 are shown in the illustration, but information processing system 1 may include multiple management servers 10, user terminals 20, and business operator terminals 30.

[0017] The management server 10 is an information processing device for the administrator (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "rally administrator") who provides the stamp rally service, and includes, for example, a server computer, a PC (Personal Computer), etc. In this embodiment, the rally administrator is the organizer of the stamp rally. The management server 10 can provide a platform for the stamp rally service. However, the management server 10 is not limited to the above, as long as it is a device that can realize the functions described in this disclosure.

[0018] The user terminal 20 is an information processing terminal carried by a user participating in the stamp rally, and includes, for example, a smartphone, tablet, or PC. The user terminal 20 performs processing to utilize the stamp rally service provided by the management server 10 in response to user operations. However, the user terminal 20 is not limited to the above, as long as it is a device capable of realizing the functions described in this disclosure.

[0019] The business operator terminal 30 is an information processing terminal of a business operator at a spot targeted for the rally (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "spot operator"), and includes at least one of the following: a server computer, PC, smartphone, or tablet terminal. The business operator terminal 30 responds to operations by a spot operator's representative and provides the management server 10 and user terminals 20 with the information necessary for the stamp rally. However, the business operator terminal 30 is not limited to the above, as long as it is a device capable of realizing the functions described in this disclosure.

[0020] Network 40 is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of communication. Examples of network 40 include the internet, wired LAN (Local Area Network), wireless LAN, public telephone network, and mobile data communication network.

[0021] Next, the functional configuration of the management server 10, user terminal 20, and carrier terminal 30, and the hardware configuration of the management server 10, user terminal 20, and carrier terminal 30 will be described. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management server 10, user terminal 20, and carrier terminal 30. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the management server 10.

[0022] (Functional configuration of management server 10) The main functional configuration of the management server 10 will now be described. As shown in Figure 2, the management server 10 has a communication unit 11, a control unit 12, and a storage unit 13.

[0023] The communication unit 11 is a communication interface that mediates communication with the network 40 and performs data communication with the user terminal 20 and the carrier terminal 30.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 12 includes an information registration unit 100, a location information acquisition unit 101, a congestion status acquisition unit 102, a candidate extraction unit 103, a candidate presentation unit 104, a sheet creation unit 105, a sheet presentation unit 106, a stamp granting unit 107, and a reward granting unit 108. The control unit 12 controls the management server 10 by reading the program (software) stored in the storage unit 13 and executing the instructions contained in the program. Specifically, the control unit 12 performs the functions of each unit 100 to 108 by operating according to the program. The functions of each unit 100 to 108 will be described later.

[0025] The storage unit 13 stores various data processed by the management server 10 and various programs for controlling the management server 10. The storage unit 13 may also be an external storage device connected to the management server 10.

[0026] The information registration unit 100 acquires user information and registers it in the storage unit 13. User information is entered by the user into the user terminal 20 and transmitted from the user terminal 20 to the management server 10. User information is not limited to information associated with the user, but as an example, it includes user attribute information. User attribute information includes, for example, user name, user ID, nickname, age, gender, email address, and address.

[0027] The user information stored in the memory unit 13 may include the user's past stamp rally participation history and progress, and the user's past activity history. Past stamp rally participation history and progress includes information such as visited spots. The user's past activity history is, for example, the usage history of linked services, and includes product purchase history and service usage history. Product purchase history includes information such as the store where the purchase was made and the products purchased. Service usage history includes information such as the location where the service was provided and the services received.

[0028] Furthermore, the information registration unit 100 acquires spot information and registers it in the storage unit 13. Spot information may be entered and registered in the management server 10 by the rally administrator, or it may be entered in the business terminal 30 by the spot business operator and transmitted from the business terminal 30 to the management server 10. Spots are the targets of the stamp rally that users visit, and include, for example, tourist spots, parks, shops, restaurants, etc. Spot information is not limited to information associated with a spot, but may include, for example, the spot's location information, spot name, spot ID, business category, and visiting hours (available hours, entry hours, business hours, etc.).

[0029] Furthermore, the information registration unit 100 acquires map information and registers it in the storage unit 13. The map information is registered in the management server 10 by the rally administrator. This map information includes map information for at least the region (area) where the stamp rally is conducted.

[0030] The location information acquisition unit 101 acquires the location information of the user terminal 20. The user terminal 20 acquires the location information of its current location and transmits this location information from the user terminal 20 to the management server 10. The location information acquired by the location information acquisition unit 101 is stored in the storage unit 13.

[0031] The congestion status acquisition unit 102 acquires the congestion status of a spot. The specific method for acquiring the congestion status is arbitrary, and known technologies can be used. The congestion status acquisition unit 102 acquires the congestion status of a spot based on the location information of the spot. In this case, the congestion status acquisition unit 102 may also acquire the time period related to the congestion status of the spot.

[0032] The candidate extraction unit 103 extracts spot candidates to be presented to the user terminal 20 from among the spots stored in the storage unit 13 by the information registration unit 100. The specific method for extracting spot candidates will be described later. The location information extracted by the candidate extraction unit 103 is stored in the storage unit 13.

[0033] The candidate presentation unit 104 displays the spot candidates extracted by the candidate extraction unit 103 on a map and presents them to the user terminal 20. The spot information stored in the storage unit 13 by the information registration unit 100 contains the location information of each spot. Map information is also stored in the storage unit 13 by the information registration unit 100. The candidate presentation unit 104 then displays the spot candidates on the map based on their location information and presents them to the user terminal 20.

[0034] Furthermore, the candidate presentation unit 104 displays the user terminal 20 on a map and presents it to the user terminal 20 based on the location information of the user terminal 20 acquired by the location information acquisition unit 101.

[0035] The sheet creation unit 105 creates a stamp sheet that includes the spot selected by the user from among the stamp candidates presented by the candidate presentation unit 104. The stamp sheet created by the sheet creation unit 105 is stored in the storage unit 13.

[0036] The sheet presentation unit 106 displays the stamp sheet created by the sheet creation unit 105 to the user terminal 20. The sheet presentation unit 106 also displays the spots included in the stamp sheet on a map and presents it to the user terminal 20.

[0037] The stamp-issuing unit 107 awards a stamp to a spot when the user has achieved predetermined clear conditions, such as visiting the spot. Specifically, it awards a stamp to the spot displayed on the user terminal 20.

[0038] The reward distribution unit 108 grants the reward to the user when the stamp rally is completed. Specifically, it displays the reward details on the user terminal 20.

[0039] (Hardware configuration of management server 10) The hardware configuration of the management server 10 will now be described. As shown in Figure 3, the management server 10 has a bus 200, a processor 201, memory 202, storage 203, a communication device 204, an input device 205, and an output device 206. These components, the processor 201, memory 202, storage 203, communication device 204, input device 205, and output device 206, are connected to each other via the bus 200.

[0040] The management server 10 implements the functions of the control unit 12 described above through the cooperation of the processor 201, memory 202, storage 203, communication device 204, input device 205, and output device 206. Memory 202 and storage 203 are examples of hardware that implement the storage unit 13. Communication device 204 is an example of hardware that implements the communication unit 11.

[0041] The processor 201 functions as an arithmetic processing unit and controls all or part of the operations within the management server 10 by executing instructions contained in the program. The processor 201 may include, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

[0042] Memory 202 temporarily stores programs, data processed by programs, etc. Examples of memory types used in memory 202 include RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0043] Storage 203 stores programs and various data. Examples of storage devices used for storage 203 include flash memory, HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), and SSDs (Solid State Drives).

[0044] The communication device 204 is a communication interface consisting of communication devices and the like for connecting to the network 40.

[0045] The input device 205 is an input device for receiving input operations from the rally administrator. The input device 205 consists of, for example, hardware keys such as a keyboard, a pointing device such as a mouse, a touch panel, a touchpad, etc.

[0046] Output device 206 is an output device for presenting information to the rally administrator. Output device 206 consists of, for example, a display device such as a display, and audio output devices such as speakers and headphones.

[0047] The input device 205 and the output device 206 may be partially or entirely integrated. In such cases, a touch panel display, which integrates a touch panel and a display, may be used.

[0048] In this embodiment, the components of the management server 10 are not limited to the examples described above. For example, each component may be made up of general-purpose materials, or it may be made up of hardware specialized for the function of each component. Depending on the technological level at the time of implementing this embodiment, it is possible to change the hardware configuration used as appropriate.

[0049] Furthermore, the program of this embodiment may be provided stored on a computer-readable storage medium. Examples of storage media include HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), SSDs (Solid State Drives), and various types of memory. Alternatively, the program may be distributed without using a storage medium, for example, via a network.

[0050] (Functional configuration of user terminal 20) The main functional configuration of the user terminal 20 will now be described. As shown in Figure 2, the user terminal 20 has a communication unit 21, a control unit 22, a storage unit 23, and a display unit 24.

[0051] The communication unit 21 is a communication interface that mediates communication with the network 40 and performs data communication with the management server 10 and the carrier terminal 30. The communication unit 21 also includes, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiving module. The user terminal 20 obtains location information of its current location based on the GPS signal received by the communication unit 21.

[0052] The control unit 22 controls the user terminal 20 by reading the program (software) stored in the memory unit 23 and executing the instructions contained in the program.

[0053] For example, the control unit 22 executes a stamp rally application (app) used on the user terminal 20, or executes a web browser application to access the website that provides the stamp rally. The control unit 22 also derives the current location information of the user terminal 20 based on the GPS signal received by the communication unit 21. Furthermore, the control unit 22 acquires user information entered by the user and records it in the storage unit 23.

[0054] The storage unit 23 stores various data processed by the user terminal 20 and various programs for controlling the user terminal 20. The storage unit 23 may also be an external storage device connected to the user terminal 20.

[0055] The display unit 24 displays applications such as the stamp rally application used on the user terminal 20. The display unit 24 is also configured to allow the user to operate the application and accepts user input.

[0056] (Hardware configuration of user terminal 20) The hardware configuration of the user terminal 20 is the same as that of the management server 10 shown in Figure 3. Specifically, the user terminal 20 has a bus 200, a processor 201, memory 202, storage 203, a communication device 204, an input device 205, and an output device 206.

[0057] The user terminal 20 implements the functions of the control unit 22 described above through the cooperation of the processor 201, memory 202, storage 203, communication device 204, input device 205, and output device 206. Memory 202 and storage 203 are examples of hardware that implement the storage unit 23. Communication device 204 is an example of hardware that implements the communication unit 21. Input device 205 and output device 206 are examples of hardware that implement the display unit 24.

[0058] Furthermore, the hardware configuration of the user terminal 20 is modified as appropriate depending on the configuration of the device being used.

[0059] (Functional configuration of the carrier terminal 30) The main functional configuration of the carrier terminal 30 will now be described. As shown in Figure 2, the carrier terminal 30 has a communication unit 31, a control unit 32, and a storage unit 33.

[0060] The communication unit 31 is a communication interface that mediates communication with the network 40 and performs data communication with the management server 10 and the user terminal 20.

[0061] The control unit 32 controls the operator terminal 30 by reading the program (software) stored in the memory unit 33 and executing the instructions contained in the program.

[0062] The control unit 32 enables payment functionality with the user terminal 20. The payment functionality can be any function necessary for processing payment. For example, it may be CPM (Customer Presented Mode), MPM (Merchant Presented Mode), or other payment methods. The control unit 32 also acquires spot information entered by the spot operator and records it in the storage unit 33.

[0063] The storage unit 33 stores various data processed by the carrier terminal 30 and various programs for controlling the carrier terminal 30. The storage unit 33 may also be an external storage device connected to the carrier terminal 30.

[0064] (Hardware configuration of operator terminal 30) The hardware configuration of the operator terminal 30 is the same as that of the management server 10 shown in Figure 3. Specifically, the operator terminal 30 has a bus 200, a processor 201, memory 202, storage 203, a communication device 204, an input device 205, and an output device 206.

[0065] The operator terminal 30 realizes the functions of the control unit 32 described above through the cooperation of the processor 201, memory 202, storage 203, communication device 204, input device 205, and output device 206. The memory 202 and storage 203 are examples of hardware that realize the storage unit 33. The communication device 204 is an example of hardware that realizes the communication unit 31.

[0066] Furthermore, the hardware configuration of the operator terminal 30 is modified as appropriate depending on the configuration of the device being used.

[0067] <Information Processing Methods> Next, a method for conducting a stamp rally as an information processing method will be described using the information processing system 1 configured as described above. In this embodiment, a stamp sheet is created that includes spots selected by the user participating in the stamp rally from among the candidate spots for the rally. The user then visits each spot based on the stamp sheet and conducts the stamp rally. In the following description, the case where the spots are tourist destinations and shops, and the spot operators are the operators of the tourist destination and the shops, is described, but the spots are not limited to these and can be arbitrarily set to parks, restaurants, etc.

[0068] Figures 4A and 4B are process flow diagrams showing the main steps of the stamp rally implementation method. The process flow shown in Figures 4A and 4B is a continuous process flow, including everything from the preparation for the stamp rally to its implementation.

[0069] First, the user inputs user information on the user terminal 20. As mentioned above, the user information includes, for example, user attribute information. Next, the user terminal 20 sends the user information to the management server 10 (step S11). The information registration unit 100 on the management server 10 retrieves the user information and registers it in the storage unit 13 (step S12).

[0070] In step S12, the user's past stamp rally participation history and progress, as well as the user's past behavior history, may be registered in the storage unit 13, linked to the user's attribute information, as described above.

[0071] Furthermore, the business operator inputs spot information into the business operator terminal 30. As mentioned above, the spot information includes, for example, the spot's location, spot name, spot ID, business category, and visitor availability (available hours, entry time, business hours, etc.). The business operator terminal 30 then transmits the spot information to the management server 10 (step S13). The information registration unit 100 in the management server 10 retrieves the spot information and registers it in the storage unit 13 (step S14). Note that the spot information can be updated at any time.

[0072] In step S13, the service provider terminal 30 may transmit the service provider information entered by the spot service provider to the management server 10. Next, in step S14, the storage unit 23 of the management server 10 stores the service provider information. The service provider information is not limited to information associated with the spot service provider, but examples include the name of the spot service provider, the ID of the spot service provider, email address, and address.

[0073] In step S14, the information registration unit 100 may register the spot information entered into the management server 10 by the rally administrator in the storage unit 13. In this case, step S13 described above is omitted. Also, when spot information is registered by the rally administrator, the rally administrator can arbitrarily select the spot information.

[0074] Furthermore, the information registration unit 100 registers map information in the memory unit 13 by the rally manager (step S15). As described above, the map information includes map information for at least the region (area) where the stamp rally is conducted.

[0075] The order of steps S12, S14, and S15 does not matter. Any of the steps may be performed first, or they may be performed simultaneously. After the preliminary preparations in steps S11 to S15 are completed, the stamp rally service using the information processing system 1 will begin.

[0076] Next, when the user performs a predetermined operation on the user terminal 20, the stamp rally application is launched (step S16). The user applies to participate in the stamp rally (enter) from the launched application. Note that the stamp rally on the user terminal 20 is not limited to the application; for example, it may be launched using a web browser. Subsequently, the user terminal 20 sends a notification of application to participate in the stamp rally to the management server 10 (step S17). At this time, the application notification may include information that can identify the user. The management server 10 then starts the stamp rally (step S18).

[0077] When the stamp rally is started in step S18, the management server 10 identifies the user who sent the participation application notification from the user identification information transmitted in step S17, and reads the user information of that user from the storage unit 13.

[0078] Furthermore, the user terminal 20 acquires its location information based on the GPS signal received by the GPS receiving module of the communication unit 21. When the application is launched in step S16, the user terminal 20 transmits its location information to the management server 10 (step S19). The location information acquisition unit 101 in the management server 10 acquires the location information of the user terminal 20 and stores it in the storage unit 13 (step S20). In addition, the user terminal 20 transmits its location information to the management server 10 each time the application is launched during the stamp rally.

[0079] Next, the candidate extraction unit 103 of the management server 10 extracts spot candidates from the spots stored in the storage unit 13 in step S14 to be presented to the user terminal 20 (step S21). The method for extracting these spot candidates is arbitrary, but for example, it may include at least one of the following (1) to (6).

[0080] (1) Spot candidate extraction based on location information The candidate extraction unit 103 extracts spots that fall within a predetermined range from the location information of the user terminal 20 as spot candidates.

[0081] The predetermined range may be set by the user. For example, the user sets the predetermined range on the user terminal 20, and the user terminal 20 sends the information of the predetermined range to the management server 10. The candidate extraction unit 103 then extracts spot candidates based on this information.

[0082] Furthermore, the predetermined range may be automatically set based on the required time and means of transportation set by the user. That is, the distance that can be traveled can be estimated based on the set required time and means of transportation, and this distance can be set as the predetermined range. The required time is the time required for the user to complete the stamp rally, and is set, for example, within the time that the user can carry out the stamp rally. The means of transportation can be, for example, train, bus, taxi, or walking. As a specific process, for example, the user sets the required time and means of transportation on the user terminal 20, and the user terminal 20 sends this information about the required time and means of transportation to the management server 10. The candidate extraction unit 103 then calculates the distance that can be traveled based on this information and extracts spot candidates. In other words, the candidate extraction unit 103 extracts spot candidates based on the location information of the user terminal 20 and the time that the user can carry out the stamp rally.

[0083] (2) Spot candidate extraction based on user preferences The candidate extraction unit 103 extracts spot candidates based on the user's preferences.

[0084] Specifically, the candidate extraction unit 103 may, in step S12, identify spots previously selected and set by the user from the user's past stamp rally participation history and progress stored in the storage unit 13, and extract spot candidates based on those spots. For example, the spot candidates may be the same as the spots previously selected and set by the user, or they may be spots in the same category or industry as those spots.

[0085] Furthermore, the candidate extraction unit 103 may extract spot candidates based on the user's past behavioral history stored in the storage unit 13 in step S12. As mentioned above, the behavioral history includes, for example, the usage history of linked services, and includes product purchase history (payment history), service usage history (payment history), etc. Alternatively, the usage history of linked services may be used in combination to form the behavioral history.

[0086] (3) Spot candidate extraction based on the performance of other users The candidate extraction unit 103 extracts spot candidates based on spots selected and set by other users in the current stamp rally. For example, the spot candidates may be a predetermined number of spots in order of the number of visitors. When determining visitors, spots that have been registered in the storage unit 13 of the management server 10 many times are determined to be popular spots (spots with many visitors).

[0087] The candidate extraction unit 103 may also extract spot candidates by combining the above (1) to (3). Spot candidates are extracted by weighting each of the above judgment criteria (1) to (3). For example, the distance from the current location of the user terminal 20 to the spot candidate in (1), the numerical representation of the user's preferences in (2), and the number of times the spot has been registered in (3) are each multiplied by a coefficient to quantify each spot. Then, spots with large values ​​are extracted as spot candidates.

[0088] (4) Restrictions on potential spots In step S14, the candidate extraction unit 103 extracts spot candidates based on the visitable time of the spot stored in the storage unit 13 and the time the user can participate in the stamp rally. Specifically, for example, the user sets the time the user can participate in the rally at the user terminal 20, and the user terminal 20 sends the information of the time the user can participate in the rally to the management server 10. The candidate extraction unit 103 then extracts spots as spot candidates whose visitable time is before the time the user can participate in the rally. In other words, it extracts only spot candidates that the user can visit and excludes spots that cannot be visited from the spot candidates. Alternatively, it displays the visitable spot candidates and the unvisible spot candidates in a way that is easily visible.

[0089] Furthermore, the candidate extraction unit 103 extracts spots as spot candidates where the visit time is earlier than the stamp sheet creation time. Even in such cases, only spot candidates that the user can visit are extracted, and spots that cannot be visited are excluded from the spot candidates. Alternatively, the system displays the visitable spot candidates and the unvisable spot candidates in a visually clear manner.

[0090] The rally manager may also set mandatory visiting spots and store those spots in the memory unit 13. In this case, the candidate extraction unit 103 extracts the mandatory spots stored in the memory unit 13 as spot candidates.

[0091] Note that this restriction on spot candidates in (4) may be imposed prior to extracting spot candidates in (1) to (3) above. In other words, spot candidates may be restricted in (4) and then extracted in (1) to (3) above.

[0092] (5) Filtering of potential spots The candidate extraction unit 103 extracts a predetermined number of spot candidates according to a predetermined priority order. The predetermined priority order can be set arbitrarily, but for example, it may be a priority order based on the criteria (1) to (3) above. The predetermined number can also be set arbitrarily, but for example, when displaying spot candidates on the display unit 24 of the user terminal 20 as described later, it is set to a number that allows the user to easily see the spot candidates and select a spot.

[0093] Furthermore, the candidate extraction unit 103 sets tags on spots and extracts spots for each tag. The tags are, for example, "restaurant," "popular," and "easy to go alone," and are arbitrarily set based on the spot information stored in the storage unit 13 in step S14.

[0094] Furthermore, this (5) filtering of spot candidates is a filtering method to make it easier for the user to select a spot when spot candidates are displayed on the display unit 24 of the user terminal 20, as will be described later.

[0095] (6) Spot candidate selection based on congestion status The congestion status acquisition unit 102 acquires the congestion status of a spot and the time period corresponding to that congestion status. The candidate extraction unit 103 extracts spot candidates based on the congestion status acquired by the congestion status acquisition unit 102. For example, the candidate extraction unit 103 may extract spots that are not crowded as spot candidates. Furthermore, the candidate extraction unit 103 may grasp the time period during which the stamp rally is being held and extract spots that are not crowded during that time period as spot candidates.

[0096] Furthermore, this (6) extraction of spot candidates based on congestion status is also performed to make it easier for the user to select a spot when spot candidates are displayed on the display unit 24 of the user terminal 20, as will be described later.

[0097] As described above, once spot candidates are extracted in step S21, the candidate presentation unit 104 of the management server 10 then presents the spot candidates to the user terminal 20 on a map (step S22). This map is the map stored in the storage unit 13 in step S15. The candidate presentation unit 104 displays the spot candidates on the map based on the location information of the spots. The candidate presentation unit 104 can also display the spot candidates on the map for each business category based on the business category of the spots. The display unit 24 of the user terminal 20 then displays the spot candidates along with the map (step S23).

[0098] Figures 5 to 7 show examples of the spot candidate list screen 300 displayed on the display unit 24. On the spot candidate list screen 300, the display unit 24 displays either or both of the tourist destination candidate 301 and the store candidate 302 as spot candidates 301 and 302 on the map. The display unit 24 also displays a category selection button 303. The category selection button 303 includes tourist destination category 303a and store category 303b. As shown in Figure 5, when both tourist destination category 303a and store category 303b are selected using the category selection button 303 (thick border), tourist destination candidate 301 and store candidate 302 are displayed. Also, as shown in Figure 6, when tourist destination category 303a is selected using the category selection button 303 (thick border), only tourist destination candidate 301 is displayed, and as shown in Figure 7, when store category 303b is selected using the category selection button 303 (thick border), only store candidate 302 is displayed. Although not shown, spot candidates may be displayed both on the map and in a list format.

[0099] Furthermore, on the spot candidate list screen 300, the display unit 24 displays the spot list 304 and a "Confirm" button 305. The spot list 304 consists of spots that the user should visit in the stamp rally, and in this embodiment, it includes three tourist destinations and two shops. The confirm button 305 is a button for the user to select and confirm five spots.

[0100] Next, the user selects a spot on the display unit 24 (step S24). When the user selects tourist destination A, one of the tourist destination candidates 301, on the spot candidate list screen 300, the display unit 24 displays the spot candidate information screen 310 shown in Figure 8. On the spot candidate information screen 310, the display unit 24 displays a display 311 of tourist destination A, a description 312 of tourist destination A, and basic information 313 of tourist destination A. The display 311 is, for example, a photograph or logo representing tourist destination A. The description 312 is, for example, a description of the highlights of tourist destination A. The basic information 313 is, for example, information such as the visiting hours of the tourist destination. The display unit 24 also displays a "Select Here" selection button 314. When the user selects the selection button 314, tourist destination A is selected as a spot for the stamp rally. Note that the selection of a spot candidate may also be done directly on the spot candidate list screen 300.

[0101] In such cases, spot candidates 301 and 302 are displayed on the map in the spot candidate list screen 300, allowing the user to intuitively select spot candidates 301 and 302, thus realizing a stamp rally that is highly convenient for the user.

[0102] In step S24, the user repeatedly selects spots until five spots are selected. The five selected spots are displayed in the spot list 304 of the spot candidate list screen 300 shown in Figures 5 to 7. After the five spots have been selected, the user selects the confirmation button 305. In this way, the spots for the stamp rally are confirmed.

[0103] As shown in Figure 9, the display unit 24 may also display the current location 320 of the user terminal 20 on the spot candidate list screen 300. In this case, the visibility of the distance between the spot candidate and the current location on the spot candidate list screen 300 is improved, and the user can create a flexible stamp rally sheet based on their current location.

[0104] Furthermore, in step S21, based on the available time for visiting the spot and the time the user can participate in the stamp rally as described in (4) above, potential spots that the user cannot visit are excluded. On the potential spot list screen 300, the display unit 24 may choose not to display these excluded potential spots, or it may choose to display them grayed out. In any case, the user is prompted to select another potential spot that they can visit.

[0105] Furthermore, in step S21, a predetermined number of spot candidates were extracted according to the predetermined priority order as described in (5) above. The display unit 24 on the spot candidate list screen 300 may display only the predetermined number of spot candidates. The display unit 24 on the spot candidate list screen 300 may also display the priority order. Displaying the priority order is optional, but for example, the size of the display of spot candidates 301 and 302 may be changed or the color of spot candidates 301 and 302 may be changed according to the priority order. In such cases, the recommended spots on the spot candidate list screen 300 become easier to understand, improving user convenience.

[0106] Furthermore, in step S21, tags were set for the spots as described in (5) above. As mentioned above, the tags include, for example, "restaurant," "popular," and "easy to go alone." On the spot candidate list screen 300, the display unit 24 may display spot candidates 301 and 302 for each of these tags. In this case, it becomes easier for the user to select a spot candidate according to their preferences.

[0107] Furthermore, in step S21, spot candidates were extracted based on the congestion status of the spots as described in (6) above. The display unit 24 may display this congestion status on the spot candidate list screen 300. The method of displaying the congestion status is arbitrary, but for example, the size of the display of spot candidates 301 and 302 may be changed or the color of spot candidates 301 and 302 may be changed according to the congestion status. In this case, the user can select a spot according to the congestion status, improving user convenience.

[0108] In the spot candidate list screen 300, the display unit 24 displays spot candidates 301 and 302 on the map, but these spot candidates may also be displayed in list format. That is, the system may be configured to allow switching between a screen where spot candidates 301 and 302 are displayed on the map and a screen where spots are displayed in list format, allowing the user to select a spot from either screen.

[0109] Once the spot selected by the user in step S24 is confirmed as described above, the user terminal 20 then sends information about the selected spot to the management server 10 (step S25).

[0110] Next, in the management server 10, the sheet creation unit 105 creates a stamp sheet containing the spots selected by the user in step S24 (step S26).

[0111] Next, the sheet presentation unit 106 causes the user terminal 20 to present the stamp sheet created in step S26 (step S27). At this time, the sheet presentation unit 106 presents the stamp sheet to the user terminal 20 with the spots included in the stamp sheet displayed on the map. Then, the display unit 24 of the user terminal 20 displays the stamp sheet (step S28).

[0112] Figure 10 shows an example of a sheet screen 330 displayed on the display unit 24, and Figure 11 shows an example of a spot list screen 340 displayed on the display unit 24. The sheet screen 330 and the spot list screen 340 are configured to be switchable.

[0113] In the sheet screen 330 shown in Figure 10, the display unit 24 displays the stamp sheet 331, spots 332a to 332e, a map button 333, and a sheet change button 334 labeled "Change Destination". Spots 332a to 332e are tourist destination A, tourist destination B, tourist destination C, shop A, and shop B, respectively. The map button 333 is a button for switching to the spot list screen 340. If any of spots 332a to 332e is selected, the display unit 24 may switch to the spot list screen 340, allowing the selected spot 332a to 332e to be viewed on the map. The sheet change button 334 is a button for changing the stamp sheet by changing the spots to visit during the stamp rally. The method for changing the stamp sheet using this sheet change button 334 will be described later.

[0114] In the spot list screen 340 shown in Figure 11, the display unit 24 displays spots 332a to 332e on the map. The display unit 24 also displays a sheet button 341 and a sheet change button 342 labeled "Change Destination". The sheet button 341 is used to switch to the sheet screen 330. The sheet change button 342 is used to change the stamp sheet by changing the spots to visit during the stamp rally.

[0115] In addition, the display unit 24 in the spot list screen 340 shown in Figure 11 may display the estimated time required to complete the stamp rally. For example, when the sheet creation unit 105 creates a stamp sheet in step S26, it predicts the required time based on the location information of the user terminal 20 and the location information of the spots.

[0116] Furthermore, the display unit 24 may display the travel route on the spot list screen 340. For example, when the sheet creation unit 105 creates a stamp sheet in step S26, the travel route is automatically set based on the location information of the user terminal 20 and the location information of the spots. The travel route may be displayed for each mode of transportation. Note that a known method can be used for automatic setting.

[0117] Furthermore, the display unit 24 on the spot list screen 340 may display the required amount according to the travel route. For example, when the sheet creation unit 105 creates a stamp sheet in step S26, the required amount is automatically calculated according to the means of travel. The required amount may include not only the transportation costs required for travel but also the costs incurred at each spot (e.g., admission fees, purchase prices of goods, etc.). In addition, the display unit 24 on the spot list screen 340 may sort by the required amount and change the display of the travel route.

[0118] Furthermore, on the spot list screen 340, the display unit 24 may display advertisements based on the travel route. The advertisements may be, for example, advertisements from businesses located along the travel route. This business information is acquired in advance and stored in the storage unit 13 of the management server 10. Then, for example, in step S26, when the sheet creation unit 105 creates a stamp sheet, it is configured to display the advertisements.

[0119] Next, the user participates in the stamp rally based on the stamp sheet displayed on the display unit 24. In this embodiment, the clearing condition for spots 332a to 332c (tourist spot A to tourist spot B) is that the user visits the spot. For spots 332d and 332e (stores A and B), the clearing condition is that the user purchases goods at the store.

[0120] During the stamp rally, when a user visits spot 332a, which is tourist destination A, the stamp issuance unit 107 of the management server 10 determines that the user has visited spot 332a. For example, the user terminal 20 transmits its location information to the management server 10 (step S29). The location information acquisition unit 101 in the management server 10 acquires the location information of the user terminal 20 and stores it in the storage unit 13. Based on this location information, the stamp issuance unit 107 confirms that the user terminal 20 has been within a predetermined range of spot 332a for a predetermined time and determines that the user has visited. The predetermined range and predetermined time can be set arbitrarily. The stamp issuance unit 107 then issues a stamp to spot 332a (step S30).

[0121] The method for determining a user's visit is arbitrary. For example, a user's visit may be confirmed by communicating with the operator terminal 30 using the near-field communication function provided by the user terminal 20, such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy). The user terminal 20 transmits the communication result to the management server 10, and the stamping unit 107 determines whether a user has visited spot 332a based on this communication result.

[0122] Alternatively, an electronic stamp (electronic seal) may be used. The stamping device on the operator terminal 30 presses an electronic stamp onto the user terminal 20 to certify the user's visit. The user terminal 20 sends the pressed electronic stamp to the management server 10, and the stamping unit 107 verifies this electronic stamp to determine if the user has visited spot 332a.

[0123] The stamp-issuing unit 107 sends the stamp issued in step S30 to the user terminal 20 (step S31). The display unit 24 of the user terminal 20 then displays a stamp indicating that the spot has been visited (step S32). In the sheet screen 330 shown in Figure 12, the display unit 24 displays a "completed" stamp 350 for spot 332a. Also, in the spot list screen 340 shown in Figure 13, the display unit 24 displays a "completed" stamp 350 for spot 332a on the map. Note that the stamp 350 is not limited to "completed" and can be set arbitrarily.

[0124] Furthermore, during the stamp rally, if a user visits store A, which is spot 332d, and purchases a product, the stamp issuance unit 107 of the management server 10 determines that the user has visited spot 332d and purchased a product. For example, if a user purchases a product at spot 332d, the user terminal 20 sends the payment information to the business terminal 30 (step S33). As described above, the business terminal 30 has a payment function and processes the payment based on the payment information (step S34). Once the payment process is complete, the business terminal 30 sends payment completion information to the management server 10 (step S35). The stamp issuance unit 107 in the management server 10 determines that the user has visited and purchased a product based on this payment completion information. The stamp issuance unit 107 then issues a stamp to spot 332d (step S36).

[0125] The stamp-issuing unit 107 transmits the stamp issued in step S36 to the user terminal 20 (step S37). The display unit 24 of the user terminal 20 then displays the stamp (step S38). Steps S37 and S38 are the same as steps S31 and S32 described above, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0126] In this embodiment, the clearing condition is that the user visits spots 332a to 332c (tourist destination A to tourist destination B), and the clearing condition is that the user purchases goods at spots 332d and 332e (stores A and B). However, the clearing conditions can be set arbitrarily.

[0127] For example, when a user visits spots 332a to 332e, a quiz may be displayed on the display unit 24 of the user terminal 20, and a stamp may be awarded if the user answers the quiz correctly. Furthermore, if the user answers the quiz incorrectly, a mission (clearance condition) may be added. Examples of missions may include making a payment of a predetermined amount or quantity, leaving a predetermined area from a spot and then revisiting the spot, or visiting another spot.

[0128] The stamp rally is conducted as described above, but during the process, the user may change a spot and modify the stamp sheet to include the changed spot. When the user selects the sheet change button 334 on the sheet screen 330 shown in Figure 10, or the user selects the sheet change button 342 on the spot list screen 340 shown in Figure 11, the user terminal 20 sends a spot change request to the management server 10 (step S39).

[0129] In step S14, the candidate extraction unit 103 of the management server 10 extracts spot candidates from the spots stored in the storage unit 13 to be presented to the user terminal 20 (step S40). At this time, the candidate extraction unit 103 extracts spots that are within a predetermined range from the location information of the user terminal 20 during the stamp rally as spot candidates. For example, instead of the location information A when the stamp sheet is created in step S26, spot candidates are re-extracted based on the new location information B when the stamp sheet is changed in step S39.

[0130] The method for re-extracting stamp candidates by the candidate extraction unit 103 is not limited to the above, and stamp candidates may be re-extracted based on arbitrary location information. In the above example, for example, if the user moves to a different location information C after a predetermined time, spot candidates may be re-extracted based on that location information C.

[0131] Next, the candidate presentation unit 104 displays the spot candidates on the map and presents them to the user terminal 20 (step S41), and the display unit 24 of the user terminal 20 displays the spot candidates along with the map (step S42). The user selects and changes a spot (step S43). The user terminal 20 sends the information of the selected spot to the management server 10 (step S44), and the sheet creation unit 105 creates and updates the stamp sheet including the spot changed by the user (step S45). The sheet presentation unit 106 presents the modified stamp sheet to the user terminal 20 (step S46). The display unit 24 of the user terminal 20 displays the stamp sheet (step S47). Steps S41 to S47 are the same as steps S22 to S28 above, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0132] As described above, once the stamp rally is completed and stamps 350 are awarded to the five spots 332a to 332e, the display unit 24 displays the rally completion screen 360 shown in Figure 14. On the rally completion screen 360, the display unit 24 displays the stamp sheet 331 and spots 332a to 332e shown on the sheet screen 330, as well as an "Apply" button 361. When the user selects the apply button 361, the user terminal 20 sends a stamp rally completion notification to the management server 10 (step S48).

[0133] On the management server 10, the reward granting unit 108 grants the reward to the user upon receiving a stamp rally completion notification (step S49). Alternatively, the reward granting unit 108 on the management server 10 may automatically grant the reward to the user upon detecting the completion of the stamp rally (in other words, without obtaining a stamp rally completion notification from the user terminal 20). The specific reward can be set arbitrarily. For example, the reward may be determined based on the spot selected by the user in step S24. Alternatively, the reward may be changed according to the visited locations and the number of stamps collected. The reward granting unit 108 sends the reward granted in step S40 to the user terminal 20 (step S50). Then, the display unit 24 of the user terminal 20 displays the granted reward (step S51). Thus, the stamp rally ends.

[0134] According to the above embodiment, in step S24 the user selects a spot, and in step S26 a stamp sheet including that spot is created. In other words, since the user creates the stamp sheet themselves, the user's motivation to complete the stamp rally can be increased, and the completion rate of the stamp rally can be increased. As a result, it becomes possible to appropriately promote the sale of products and the provision of services.

[0135] Furthermore, in step S22, the spot candidates are displayed on the map and presented to the user terminal 20, that is, in step S23, the display unit 24 displays spot candidates 301 and 302 on the map in the spot candidate list screen 300. This allows the user to intuitively select spot candidates and create a flexible stamp rally based on the user's current location. Therefore, a stamp rally that is highly convenient for the user can be realized. As a result, the completion rate of the stamp rally by the user can be further improved.

[0136] Furthermore, during the stamp rally, the stamp spot can be changed in step S43, and the stamp sheet can be changed in step S46. Therefore, the convenience for the user can be further improved.

[0137] <Other Embodiments> In the above embodiment, after the first stamp rally is completed, the operator may be notified that a second or subsequent stamp rally will be held. In this case, the control unit 12 of the management server 10 has an operator notification unit (not shown).

[0138] In step S14 described above, spot information and business information are stored in the storage unit 13. The business notification unit selects spots within a predetermined range from the location of the second stamp rally based on the address (location information) of the business information. The business notification unit notifies the business terminal 30 of the selected spots that the second stamp rally will be held and prompts the spot businesses to register their spots. In this case, the spot businesses decide whether or not to participate in the stamp rally, thus reducing the burden on the rally administrator who would otherwise have to decide on potential spots each time a stamp rally is held.

[0139] <Other Embodiments> In the embodiments described above, the case where the rally target is a spot has been explained, but the rally target is not limited to this.

[0140] For example, the rally targets may include means of transportation. Means of transportation include, for example, trains, buses, taxis, and walking. In such a case, the stamp rally may set a clearing condition as, for example, the user traveling by train. The method for determining whether the clearing condition has been met is arbitrary, but for example, the stamp-issuing unit 107 of the management server 10 may estimate the user's travel route based on the trajectory (route and time) of the location information of the user terminal 20 and determine whether the clearing condition has been met.

[0141] Furthermore, the rally target may include the travel route. In such a case, the completion condition for the stamp rally may be set as, for example, the user traveling along a specific travel route. The stamp-issuing unit 107 of the management server 10 identifies the user's travel route based on the trajectory of the location information of the user terminal 20 and determines whether the completion condition has been met.

[0142] Furthermore, the rally targets may also include services. For example, the service may be a service provided in a real space (a spot in the above embodiment). In such a case, a stamp rally similar to the above embodiment can be implemented. In addition, in the stamp rally, for example, receiving a specific service may be set as a completion condition.

[0143] Furthermore, the service may include, for example, a virtual service or virtual store on the web. In such a case, the stamp rally becomes a stamp rally on the web. In this case, the user ID in the stamp rally is associated with the user ID in the service. Then, in the stamp rally, clearing conditions are set, for example, receiving a specific virtual service or purchasing a product at a specific virtual store.

[0144] As described above, the effects of this embodiment can be enjoyed regardless of the type of rally target.

[0145] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, but the present invention is not limited to these examples. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the ideas described in the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of the present invention. [Industrial applicability]

[0146] This invention is useful in encouraging user behavior, and is particularly useful when conducting stamp rallies. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0147] 1. Information Processing System 10 Management Server 11 Communications Department 12 Control Unit 13 Storage section 20 User Terminals 21 Communications Department 22 Control Unit 23 Memory section 24 Display 30. Carrier terminals 31 Communications Department 32 Control Unit 33 Storage section 40 Networks 100 Information Registration Department 101 Location information acquisition unit 102 Congestion Status Acquisition Unit 103 Candidate Extraction Unit 104 Candidate presentation section 105 Sheet Creation Section 106 Sheet display section 107 Stamp Issuance Section 108 Special Offer Section 200 buses 201 Processor 202 memory 203 Storage 204 Communication equipment 205 Input device 206 Output device 300 Spot Candidate List Screen 301 potential spots (potential tourist destinations) 302 potential locations (potential stores) 303 Category Selection Button 303a Tourist Destination Category 303b Store Category 304 Spot List 305 Confirm button 310 Spot Candidate Information Screen 311 displays 312 Description 313 Basic information 314 Select button 320 Current Location 330 Sheet Screen 331 Stamp Sheet 332a~332e Spot 333 Map button 334 Sheet Change Button 340 Spot List Screen 341 Sheet Buttons 342 Sheet Change Button 350 stamps 360 Rally Completion Screen 361 Apply button

Claims

[Claim 1] Information processing device, The process of displaying multiple rally target candidates along with a map in a stamp rally, An information processing method characterized by performing the process of creating a stamp sheet containing multiple rally targets selected by the user from the aforementioned multiple rally target candidates.

Images