Server systems, applications, and gift ticket issuance and management systems

Abstract

This system enables small and medium-sized enterprises to implement a common gift ticket issuance and management system with minimal initial investment, providing a simple and efficient system for issuing and managing gift tickets using identification codes. [Solution] A server system for managing gift tickets usable by multiple affiliated stores, comprising: a sales means for selling gift tickets through a business operator's e-commerce sales site; an ID generation means for generating a unique ID associated with the gift ticket; an identification code generation means for converting the unique ID into an identification code; a URL management means for managing a sales URL set up for purchasing the gift ticket on the e-commerce sales site; and a database management means for recording and managing the usage information of the gift ticket using the identification code.

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] The present invention relates to a server system, an application, and a gift ticket issuance and management system.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the number of small and medium-sized enterprises that have activated their sales activities on the Internet has been increasing, and there is a demand for multi-faceted sales promotion including e-commerce as well as physical stores. In particular, the demand for gift tickets that emphasize the customer experience value has been increasing, and the spread of ticket issuance and management systems available in stores has been progressing.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a settlement support technology for efficiently issuing an electronic receipt using a two-dimensional barcode based on transaction information of a product purchased by a customer. In this technology, a system for generating an electronic receipt by a settlement support device and transmitting it to a customer's terminal is being developed.

[0004] Further, Patent Document 2 discloses a coupon exchange terminal that enables selection from coupon information displayed on a terminal and manages the used coupons when a customer uses an electronic coupon stored in a mobile terminal or an IC card equipped with a contactless IC chip.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, Patent Document 1 only addresses the issuance and management of electronic receipts using QR codes (registered trademark), and fails to address the challenge of flexible issuance and management of experience gift tickets for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Furthermore, Patent Document 2 focuses on the issuance of coupons on a store-by-store basis and does not consider the challenge of issuing and managing common gift tickets that can be jointly used by multiple SMEs.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a system that enables small and medium-sized enterprises to introduce a common gift ticket issuance and management system with a small initial investment, and that allows for the simple and efficient issuance and management of gift tickets using identification codes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the server system for managing gift tickets usable by multiple affiliated stores according to the present invention is characterized by comprising: a sales means for selling gift tickets through the business operator's e-commerce sales site; an ID generation means for generating a unique ID associated with the gift ticket; an identification code generation means for converting the unique ID into an identification code; a URL management means for managing a sales URL set up for purchasing the gift ticket on the e-commerce sales site; and a database management means for recording and managing the usage information of the gift ticket using the identification code. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a system that enables small and medium-sized enterprises to introduce a common gift ticket issuance and management system with a small initial investment, and that allows for the simple and efficient issuance and management of gift tickets using identification codes. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a system configuration diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the experience gift ticket issuance system for small and medium-sized enterprises according to the present invention. [Figure 2]This is a block diagram showing an example of a functional block of a server system according to the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a functional block diagram of the functions of a device installed in a member store according to the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a sequence diagram showing an example of the gift ticket issuance process according to the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a sequence diagram showing an example of the process for using a gift ticket according to the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of fee structure switching and fee setting according to the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a screen transition diagram showing an example of a code reading and usage confirmation screen for an application according to the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a screen configuration diagram showing an example of the message addition function and expiration date / region display function according to the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a screen configuration diagram showing an example of the real-time tracking of usage status and usage history display function according to the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a screen configuration diagram showing an example of the affiliate store information display function according to the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a system configuration diagram showing an example of the function that links with physical tickets according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The present invention will be described below. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and can be modified, added, altered, or deleted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can conceive of it. Any embodiment that achieves the function and effect of the present invention is included within the scope of the present invention.

[0012] The server system is a core system that centrally manages the issuance and management of gift tickets by businesses. The server system includes sales means, ID generation means, identification code generation means, transmission means, URL management means, database management means, configuration means, and control means. In particular, the server system oversees the management of all issued gift tickets and can grasp the sales and usage status of each participating store in real time. Furthermore, the server system enables the operation of gift tickets that can be used commonly across multiple participating stores, improving customer convenience. The server system can also analyze sales data and customer information from each participating store and utilize this information for developing marketing strategies. In addition, the server system has the function to flexibly change the fee structure depending on the sales channel, such as purchases via social media, effectively supporting the promotional activities of participating stores. Participating stores are a group of stores that participate in this system and can use gift tickets. Participating stores are typically small and medium-sized enterprises such as cafes and bars.

[0013] A gift ticket is a ticket that is uniquely assigned an ID and coded by a server system. Gift tickets are issued as digital tickets or physical tickets, such as paper tickets, and in the case of digital tickets, they are used via an application. Gift tickets are sold through e-commerce sales sites operated by businesses. Purchasers can buy gift tickets online and send them to friends or others with a message attached as additional information. The recipient becomes the ticket user. Furthermore, gift tickets have an expiration date and a region where they can be used, and this information can be checked on the application. The usage status of gift tickets is tracked in real time and notified to the purchaser or participating store. In addition, the usage history is recorded and managed in a format that can be viewed within the application. In this way, gift tickets are operated in a completely digital format from issuance to use and management.

[0014] The sales means provides a function to sell gift tickets via an EC sales site operated by a business operator. The sales means receives orders from purchasers and performs settlement processing.

[0015] The ID generation means generates a unique ID to be associated with a gift ticket. The generated ID is used to uniquely identify each gift ticket.

[0016] The identification code generation means encodes the unique ID generated by the ID generation means into an identification code. An identification code is a digital coding system used to uniquely specify and identify goods, services, information, etc., such as a QR code or a barcode. By expressing information in a machine-readable format, accurate and fast data reading and processing without human intervention are realized. In this specification, the identification code may be included in a digital ticket or printed on a physical ticket such as a paper medium.

[0017] The transmission means transmits the identification code to the purchaser via a plurality of media such as email and SNS. The transmission means selects an appropriate communication protocol according to the transmission method specified by the purchaser and transmits the identification code in a secure communication environment. In addition, the transmission means has a function to confirm the arrival of the transmitted identification code and automatically attempts to retransmit if a delivery error occurs. Furthermore, the transmission means records the transmission history of the identification code in the database management means to enable tracking of the transmission status. In addition, the transmission means also has a function that allows the purchaser to transfer the identification code to multiple recipients, realizing flexible distribution of gift tickets.

[0018] The URL management system manages the URLs used to sell gift tickets on e-commerce websites. In conjunction with the settings system, the URL management system enables the setting of fee structures based on URL parameters. Furthermore, the URL management system can issue individual URLs to each participating store and set different parameters for each URL. For example, it can be set to waive fees for purchases made via social media. The URL management system also monitors the validity of issued URLs to prevent fraudulent use. In addition, the URL management system records purchase history from each URL in conjunction with the database management system, which can be used to measure the effectiveness of sales channels. Thus, the URL management system plays a crucial control role in gift ticket sales.

[0019] The database management system records and manages gift ticket usage information using identification codes. The database management system updates information such as usage history and balance management in real time.

[0020] The configuration method allows for variable setting of fees or pricing structures based on parameters attached to the sales URL. This configuration method enables different conditions to be set for each participating store.

[0021] The application is software installed on smartphones and other devices that works in conjunction with a server system to utilize gift tickets. The application includes an identification code display function that displays an identification code on the screen.

[0022] The devices installed in participating stores are equipped with reading and communication functions. The reading function reads identification codes that are sent from the server system to the user's smartphone and displayed on the screen. The reading function uses a camera or scanner to visually recognize identification codes such as QR codes and barcodes and capture them as digital data. The reading function supports various types of identification codes and automatically determines the format of the code to perform the appropriate reading process. In addition, the reading function utilizes image processing technology to accurately read identification codes even in poor lighting conditions. The identification codes read by the reading function are sent to the server system via the communication function and their validity is verified.

[0023] The communication function enables real-time data transmission and reception with the server system. It securely transmits identification codes and validity verification information using encrypted communication protocols. Furthermore, the communication function includes a retransmission function to ensure data transmission is completed reliably even in unstable communication environments. In addition, the communication function automatically re-establishes communication with the server system if it is interrupted. Moreover, the communication function saves communication history as a log, which can be used to investigate the cause of problems. Thus, the communication function plays a crucial role in controlling communication during the use of gift tickets.

[0024] The server system further includes control means. The control means confirms the use of the gift ticket based on validity confirmation information. Validity confirmation information includes, for example, information such as whether the gift ticket has been used or not, information about the expiration date of the gift ticket, and information about the region and stores where the gift ticket can be used. The control means confirms that the gift ticket is unused, that the request for use is from a participating store within the usable region, and that it is within its expiration date. If these conditions to be confirmed are met, the use of the gift ticket is confirmed. After confirming the use, the control means transmits the use information to the database management means and updates the status of the gift ticket to "used". In addition, at the same time as confirming the use, the control means notifies the user and purchaser that the gift ticket has been used via a real-time tracking notification function. Furthermore, if any error occurs during the use confirmation process, the control means has a function to clearly display the cause to the purchaser and user, and to perform a retry process as necessary. In addition, the control means has a function to enable temporary use confirmation processing even when offline and to automatically synchronize with the server system when the network is restored.

[0025] The application includes the aforementioned identification code display function, usage information recording and reference display function, message attachment function, expiration date or available region display function, real-time tracking notification function, usage history reference function, and affiliate store information acquisition and recommendation list presentation function.

[0026] The usage information recording and display function records gift ticket usage information within the application and displays it as needed. Usage information is managed in synchronization with the server system.

[0027] The message attachment feature allows purchasers or users to attach messages to gift tickets. Messages can be created in multiple formats, including text, emojis, or images. Messages created by purchasers or users are associated with an identification code by the server system and notified to the recipient. This feature allows gifters to add heartfelt messages to their gift tickets, providing a richer gifting experience. Furthermore, the message attachment feature saves a history of previously sent messages, allowing for reuse as needed. Additionally, it provides message templates tailored to seasons and events, enhancing convenience for purchasers.

[0028] The expiration date and usable area display function shows the expiration date and usable area of ​​the gift ticket within the application. This function allows users to check the usage conditions within the application before using the gift ticket. Specifically, the expiration date is displayed as year, month, and time, and the usable area can be displayed as an area on a map or as a list of stores. It also has an alert function that notifies the user when the expiration date is approaching. Furthermore, it has a function that allows users to visually check the relationship between the usable area and their current location on a map, making it easy to find the nearest usable store.

[0029] The real-time tracking notification feature tracks the usage of gift tickets in real time and notifies the purchaser or participating store. This feature allows for immediate understanding of usage status.

[0030] The usage history reference function retrieves the usage history of gift tickets and displays it in a format that can be viewed within the application. This function makes it easy to check past usage status.

[0031] The affiliated store information retrieval and recommendation list presentation function retrieves information on affiliated stores from the server system and presents users with a list of suitable stores. This function retrieves not only basic information about affiliated stores (store name, address, business hours, etc.), but also information on each store's characteristics, services offered, and ratings. The retrieved information is optimized considering the user's preferences and current location, and displayed as a recommendation list. Furthermore, the affiliated store information retrieval and recommendation list presentation function also includes a feature to narrow down stores based on user-defined conditions (area, category, price range, etc.), supporting efficient store selection. It can also reflect real-time inventory and congestion status, providing more practical store information. This function allows users to easily find the affiliated store best suited to their preferences and conditions, enabling them to effectively utilize gift tickets. [Examples]

[0032] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0033] The present invention's gift ticket issuance and management system 1, shown in Figure 1, is described below. This system 1 consists of a server system 10, multiple affiliated stores 20, and a smartphone 95. The server system 10, as the core system, centrally manages the gift tickets 30 issued by the affiliated stores 20. Businesses sell the gift tickets 30 through an e-commerce sales site 25, and users can use the gift tickets 30 through an application 100. The administrator of each affiliated store 20 reads the identification code displayed on the screen display unit 137 of the smartphone 95 carried by the user using an affiliated store device 27 located in the affiliated store 20, and identifies it as a gift ticket 30.

[0034] As shown in the functional block diagram in Figure 2, the server system 10 includes a sales means 40, an ID generation means 50, a transmission means 60, a URL management means 70, a database management means 80, and a setting means 90. The server system 10 is a server device equipped with a processor, memory, storage device, communication means, etc., which perform various calculations. The processor executes a program stored in the storage device to realize the sales means 40, ID generation means 50, transmission means 60, URL management means 70, database management means 80, setting means 90, and control means 130. The sales means 40 centrally manages the sale of gift tickets 30 from each affiliated store 20 via the e-commerce sales site 25 and also handles payment processing at the time of purchase. The ID generation means 50 generates a unique, non-duplicate ID for each gift ticket 30 sold, making each ticket uniquely identifiable. The transmission means 60 converts the generated ID into an identification code such as a QR code and sends it to the purchaser via email or SNS. The URL management means 70 individually manages the gift ticket sales URLs of each participating store 20 and also tracks access status. The database management means 80 records and manages all information from the issuance to the use of the gift tickets 30, enabling real-time tracking of usage status. The setting means 90 works in conjunction with the URL management means 70 to flexibly set the fee structure according to the sales channel, for example, by waiving fees when purchased via the store's own URL. All of these functions work together organically to realize efficient gift ticket management that can be jointly used by multiple participating stores 20. Specifically, the setting means 90 variably sets the fee rate or fee structure according to the parameters attached to the sales URL included in the identification code.

[0035] Figure 3 shows a functional block diagram related to the application installed on the user's smartphone 95 and a functional block diagram of the affiliated store device 27.

[0036] The application installed on the user's smartphone 95 includes an identification code display function 135, a usage information display function 140, a message addition function 150, an expiration date or available area display function 160, a real-time tracking notification function 170, a usage history display function 180, and a member store information display function 190. The smartphone 95 includes a processor, memory, storage device, a user interface unit including a screen display unit 137, and a communication unit, and realizes the above functions by executing a program stored in the storage device.

[0037] The affiliated store device 27 is equipped with a reading function 110 and a communication function 120. The reading function 110 is a function for reading identification codes transmitted from the server system. The reading function 110 visually recognizes identification codes such as QR codes and barcodes using a camera or scanner and captures them as digital data. The reading function 110 supports various types of identification codes and automatically determines the format of the code to perform the appropriate reading process. In addition, the reading function 110 utilizes image processing technology to accurately read identification codes even in poor lighting conditions. The identification code read by the reading function 110 is transmitted to the server system 10 via the communication function 120 for validity verification. The communication function 120 is a function that transmits the read identification code to the server system 10 and verifies the validity of the gift ticket. The communication function 120 transmits and receives data with the server system 10 in real time. The communication function 120 uses an encrypted communication protocol to securely transmit and receive identification codes and validity verification information. Furthermore, the communication function 120 is equipped with a retransmission function to ensure that data transmission and reception are completed reliably even in unstable communication environments. In addition, the communication function has a function to automatically re-establish communication if communication with the server system 10 is interrupted. Moreover, the communication function 120 saves the communication history as a log, which can be used to investigate the cause of problems when they occur. In this way, the communication function 120 plays an important role in communication control functions for the use of gift tickets.

[0038] The process of issuing gift tickets 30 will be explained using Figure 4. First, when a buyer purchases a gift ticket 30 on the e-commerce sales site 25, the purchase information is received by the sales means 40 of the server system 10. Then, the ID generation means 50 generates a unique, non-duplicate ID for the purchased gift ticket 30. This unique ID is converted into an identification code such as a QR code by the transmission means 60 and sent to the buyer via communication means such as email or social media. At this time, the transmission means 60 has a function to confirm the receipt of the transmitted ID, and if a delivery error occurs, it automatically attempts to resend it. In addition, the transmission history is recorded in the database management means 80, and the transmission status can be tracked. Furthermore, the buyer can forward the received identification code to multiple users, realizing flexible distribution of gift tickets 30.

[0039] The process for using the gift ticket 30 shown in Figure 5 is described below. The purchaser sends an identification code to the user, making the gift ticket usable by the user. When the user presents the identification code at the participating store 20 using the application 100, the identification code is read by the reading function 110 of the participating store device 27 located at the participating store 20 and transmitted to the server system 10 via the communication function 120. The server system 10 compares the received identification code with the information recorded in the database management means 80 to confirm that the gift ticket 30 is unused, within its validity period, and in the appropriate region. Once all confirmations are complete, the control means 130 confirms its use. After use is confirmed, the status of the gift ticket 30 is updated to "used" in the database management means 80, and the user and purchaser are notified of the completion of use via the real-time tracking notification function 170. In addition, the staff of the participating store 20 can visually confirm the use confirmation on the screen, and the use information can also be checked later through the use history display function 180. If a connection to the server system 10 cannot be temporarily established due to a communication failure or other reasons, the application 100 will perform a temporary offline usage confirmation, and then automatically synchronize with the server system 10 once the network is restored.

[0040] Figure 6 illustrates an example of the overall operation of the gift ticket issuance and management system 1. The setting means 90 pre-sets a fee structure associated with parameters of the sales URL (step ST1). Next, the URL management means 70 determines and manages whether the gift ticket is being sold via the company's own URL (step ST2). If the gift ticket is being sold via the company's own URL (YES side of step ST2), the fee structure for sales via the company's own URL is applied, for example, making the ticket sales commission free and only incurring a settlement fee (step ST4). If the gift ticket is not being sold via the company's own URL (NO side of step ST2, YES side), the normal fee structure is applied (step ST3). URL parameters can include purchase channel information (e.g., "sns=instagram", "sns=facebook", etc.) and sales promotion campaign information (e.g., "campaign=summer2025"). As described above, flexible settings are possible, such as waiving fees for purchases made via the company's own URL or reducing the fee rate during specific campaign periods. Furthermore, different commission rates can be set for each of the 20 affiliated stores, allowing for measures such as reducing commissions for a certain period for new affiliated stores. In addition, these settings can be freely changed by the 20 affiliated stores from the web management screen of the URL management device 70, allowing for flexible responses according to sales conditions. The set fee structure is recorded in the database management device 80 and used for sales performance analysis.

[0041] Figure 7 describes the presentation of the identification code in the application 100 and the usage confirmation screen on the affiliated store device 27. The reading function 110 of the affiliated store device 27 scans the identification code presented on the screen display unit 137 of the user's smartphone 95, and the result is displayed on the display screen of the affiliated store device 27. Store staff can confirm the displayed information and confirm the usage.

[0042] As shown in Figure 8, the message attachment function 150 and the expiration date or available area display function 160 allow additional information to be attached to the gift ticket 30, and the expiration date and available area can be checked. Figure 8 shows, for example, the screen of the purchaser's smartphone. The purchaser can attach a message expressing the giver's feelings, and the recipient can easily check the terms of use. Specifically, the message attachment function 150 can be used to create a message in various formats such as text messages, emojis, or images and attach it to the gift ticket 30. The attached message is stored in the server system 10 in association with an identification code and is simultaneously displayed on the application 100 when the recipient, i.e., the user, checks the gift ticket 30. In addition, the expiration date or available area display function 160 accurately displays the expiration date of the gift ticket 30 in year, month, day, and time, and the available area is displayed as an area on a map or as a list of participating stores 20. Furthermore, an alert function is provided that notifies the user from the application 100 when the expiration date is approaching, preventing the gift ticket 30 from expiring. In addition, it is possible to visually check the relationship between the available area and the current location on a map, allowing users to efficiently identify the nearest available member store(s) (20).

[0043] Figure 9 shows the operation of the real-time tracking notification function 170 and the usage history display function 180. The usage status of the gift ticket 30 is tracked in real time and notified to the purchaser and the participating store 20. Past usage history can also be viewed.

[0044] As shown in Figure 10, the affiliated store information display function 190 allows users to easily select the most suitable affiliated store 20. An optimized recommendation list is displayed based on the user's preferences and current location, enabling efficient store selection. Specifically, in addition to basic information of affiliated stores 20 (store name, address, business hours, etc.), the system also retrieves information such as the characteristics of each store, the services offered, and ratings, and displays them in an optimized format that takes into account the user's preferences and current location. It also has a function to narrow down stores based on conditions set by the user (area, category, price range, etc.), supporting efficient store selection. Furthermore, it is possible to reflect real-time inventory status and congestion status, realizing the provision of more practical store information. In this way, users can easily find the affiliated store 20 that best suits their wishes and conditions and effectively utilize the gift ticket 30. In addition, it is possible to display the store's location information and the user's current location on a map, allowing them to visually grasp the nearest affiliated store 20. The recommendation list is presented in a personalized format, taking into account the user's past usage history and ratings.

[0045] The gift ticket 30 may be a digital ticket or a physical ticket using paper or other media. As shown in Figure 11, the gift ticket issuance and management system 1 also has a function to link with physical tickets, allowing businesses to print identification codes on physical tickets made of paper or other media and issue them. These physical tickets can also be read by the participating store device 27 and are managed in the same way as digital tickets. Specifically, a unique ID generated by the ID generation means 50 of the server system 10 is converted into an identification code, the identification code is printed on the physical ticket, and sent from the business to the participating store 20. This identification code is printed in combination with the design template of the physical ticket, making it possible to hand them out at participating stores or distribute them by mail. The identification code printed on the physical ticket is recognized by the reading function 110 of the participating store device 27 and links with the database management means 80 of the server system 10 via the communication function 120. This makes it possible to verify validity, track usage status, and manage usage history, just like with digital tickets. Furthermore, to prepare for the loss or damage of physical tickets, backup data is always stored in the server system 10, and businesses can reissue them as needed. In this way, the gift ticket issuance and management system 1 can accommodate a wide range of usage scenarios by managing gift tickets 30 in both digital and physical ticket forms.

[0046] Furthermore, the gift ticket 30 in this specification, whether digital or physical, does not necessarily have a predetermined expiration date. For example, the identification code attached to the gift ticket 30 may not initially have any validity assigned to it, and the server system 10 may have a function that enables the gift ticket 30 only when it is recognized by the reading function 110 of the merchant device 27. The expiration date may be set when the identification code of the gift ticket 30 is read by the merchant device 27, and only at that time may the gift ticket 30 be activated and become usable.

[0047] Similarly, in this specification, the gift ticket 30, whether digital or physical, does not need to have information about the usable region or usable stores set. This is to allow the server system 10 to flexibly add information such as the usable region and usable stores. For example, it is possible to flexibly respond to changes such as creating a special gift ticket 30 that can be used at all participating stores without any time limit, or increasing the number of participating stores where it can be used only during a campaign.

[0048] <Aspect 1> A server system for managing gift tickets usable by multiple affiliated stores 20, A sales method 40 for selling gift tickets 30 through a business operator's e-commerce sales site 25, An ID generation means 50 that generates a unique ID associated with the gift ticket 30, An identification code generation means 55 that converts a unique ID into an identification code, A URL management means 70 for managing the sales URL set up for purchasing gift tickets 30 on an e-commerce sales site 25, A database management means 80 that records and manages the usage information of the gift ticket 30 using an identification code, A server system equipped with these features.

[0049] This server system enables efficient management of gift tickets usable at multiple participating stores. By using ID generation and identification code generation methods, each gift ticket is assigned unique identification information, allowing for accurate tracking. Furthermore, the database management method ensures reliable recording and management of gift ticket usage history, preventing fraudulent use and providing visibility into usage patterns.

[0050] <Aspect 2> The server system described in Embodiment 1, A server system equipped with a transmission means 60 for sending a digital ticket containing an identification code to a purchaser.

[0051] This configuration allows for the rapid delivery of gift tickets in digital format to users who have purchased them. Digital tickets eliminate the need for paper, reducing environmental impact and the risk of loss. Furthermore, the ability to send tickets instantly improves convenience for purchasers and enhances the value of gift tickets.

[0052] <Aspect 3> The server system described in Embodiment 1, The system includes a setting means 90 that variably sets the commission or fee structure according to the parameters attached to the sales URL. A server system that switches between commission rates for each of the 20 affiliated stores, and whether or not commissions need to be collected.

[0053] This configuration allows for flexible fee settings tailored to the operations of each participating store. It enables the exemption of fees for specific stores and dynamic adjustment of fee rates based on sales, streamlining revenue management for businesses and accommodating a wider variety of business models. Furthermore, fee management based on sales URLs improves transaction transparency and helps deter fraudulent use.

[0054] <Aspect 4> An application 100 installed on a smartphone 95 or other device, An application comprising an identification code display function 135 for displaying an identification code transmitted from the server system described in Embodiment 1.

[0055] This application allows users to easily present the identification code of their gift ticket, enabling smooth use at participating stores. Since there is no need to carry a physical ticket, convenience is improved, and the risk of losing the gift ticket is reduced. Furthermore, presentation via the application digitizes the authentication process, resulting in highly accurate transactions.

[0056] <Aspect 5> An application as described in aspect 4, An application 100 that records the usage information of gift tickets managed by the server system 10 based on usage completion information obtained from the server system 10, and also has a function to display the usage information in a referable format as needed.

[0057] This configuration allows users to manage the usage history of their gift tickets within the application. This makes it easy to check whether a ticket has been used or not, preventing mistakes such as accidentally trying to reuse it. In addition, it makes it easier for participating merchants to understand usage status in real time, enabling them to provide appropriate customer service.

[0058] <Aspect 6> An application as described in aspect 4, A message addition function 150 that presents a message associated with an identification code sent from the server system 10, A function 160 that displays the expiration date or available region associated with the identification code, A usage information display function 140 that shows the usage status associated with the identification code, A usage history display function 180 that presents the usage history associated with the identification code, A member store information display function 190 that displays member store information associated with an identification code, An application that has the following features.

[0059] This application allows users to instantly check various information about gift tickets. The function that displays the expiration date and usable region is particularly effective in preventing misuse. Furthermore, providing information on participating stores makes it easy for users to understand which stores accept the tickets, improving convenience.

[0060] <Aspect 7> A gift ticket issuance and management system that links the server system described in Embodiment 1 with the application described in Embodiment 4, The application presents an identification code, A gift ticket issuance and management system in which the server system confirms the use of the gift ticket 30 based on the identification code and records the usage information of the gift ticket 30 in the database of the server system 10.

[0061] This configuration allows the server system and application to work seamlessly together, centralizing everything from gift ticket issuance to redemption and management. Users can easily present tickets through the app, and participating stores can instantly check and process their usage. Furthermore, real-time database management is possible, preventing duplicate or fraudulent use of tickets and ensuring highly reliable operation. [Explanation of symbols]

[0062] 1. Gift Ticket Issuance and Management System 10 Server Systems 20 affiliated stores 25 e-commerce sites 27 affiliated store devices 30 Gift Tickets 40 Sales methods 50 ID generation means 55 Identification code generation means 60 Transmission method 70 URL management means 80 Database Management Means 90 Setting means 95 Smartphones 100 applications 110 Reading function 120 Communication functions 130 Control means 135 Identification Code Display Function 137 Screen display section 140 Usage information display function 150 Message Addition Function 160 Expiration date or available region display function 170 Real-time tracking notification function 180 Usage History Display Function 190. Affiliated Store Information Display Function

Claims

1. A server system for managing gift tickets usable by multiple participating stores, A sales method that involves selling gift tickets through a business's e-commerce sales site, ID generation means for generating a unique ID associated with the aforementioned gift ticket, An identification code generation means for encoding the aforementioned unique ID, A URL management means for managing the sales URL set up for purchasing gift tickets on the aforementioned e-commerce sales site, A database management means for recording and managing the usage information of the gift ticket using the aforementioned identification code, A server system characterized by having the following features.

2. A server system according to claim 1, The system includes a transmission means for sending a digital ticket containing the aforementioned identification code to the purchaser. A server system characterized by the following features.

3. A server system according to claim 1, The system includes a setting means for variably setting the commission or fee structure according to the parameters assigned to the aforementioned sales URL, A server system characterized by its ability to switch the commission rate for each affiliated store and whether or not to collect commissions.

4. An application installed on a smartphone or other device, An application characterized by having an identification code display function for displaying an identification code transmitted from the server system described in claim 1.

5. An application according to claim 4, An application characterized by recording the usage information of gift tickets managed by the server system based on usage completion information obtained from the server system, and having a function to display the usage information in a referable format as needed.

6. An application according to claim 4, A function to present a message associated with the identification code transmitted from the server system, A function to display the expiration date or available region associated with the aforementioned identification code, A function that displays the usage status associated with the aforementioned identification code, A function to display the usage history associated with the aforementioned identification code, A function to display affiliate store information associated with the aforementioned identification code, An application characterized by having the following features.

7. A gift ticket issuance and management system that links the server system described in claim 1 with the application described in claim 4, The application presents the identification code, A gift ticket issuance and management system characterized in that the server system confirms the use of the gift ticket based on the identification code and records the use information of the gift ticket in the server system's database.

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