School supplies reuse system, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

We will provide new school supplies reuse systems and other solutions to address the unique challenges involved in the buying and selling of school supplies. [Solution] The school supplies reuse system includes authentication information management means for managing authentication information associated with a specific school, user management means for managing user registration and access from users, and provision means for providing users with a user interface screen for buying and selling school supplies. When any authentication information provided to students through the school administrator is entered by the user management means, the user management means registers the school associated with the authentication information in association with the user. The provision means generates information for presenting the user interface screen for school supplies in accordance with the operation of a first user to list school supplies, and presents the user interface screen in response to access from a second user if the school associated with the first user and the school associated with the second user match.

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present invention relates to a school supplies reuse system, an information processing method, and an information processing program. [[Background Art]]

[0002] Systems for holding flea markets for buying and selling goods between individuals via a network are publicly known. For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2000-155786 (Patent Document 1) discloses an information sharing method for online flea markets that can collect dispersed trading information and support matching of sellers and buyers that satisfy matching conditions. [[Prior Art Literature]] [[Patent Literature]]

[0003] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2000-155786 [[Summary of the Invention]] [[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0004] The technology disclosed in the above-mentioned prior art literature is premised on that buying and selling of goods between individuals, between an individual and a company, or between companies, where sellers and buyers are not fixed, is performed in cyberspace.

[0005] However, there are unique problems when buying and selling school supplies. For example, school uniforms are specified for each school, and there is a need to prevent purchase by third parties unrelated to the school.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a novel school supplies reuse system and the like for solving unique problems in the buying and selling of school supplies. [[Means for Solving the Problem]]

[0007] A school supplies reuse system according to one embodiment includes authentication information management means for managing authentication information associated with a specific school, user management means for managing user registration and access from users, and providing means for providing users with a user interface screen for buying and selling school supplies. When any authentication information provided to students through the school administrator is entered in association with a user, the user management means registers the school associated with the authentication information in association with the user. The providing means generates information for presenting a user interface screen for school supplies in accordance with an operation by a first user to list school supplies, and presents the user interface screen in response to access from a second user if the school associated with the first user and the school associated with the second user match.

[0008] The service provider may, when a second user completes the purchase procedure for school supplies on the user interface screen, execute processes related to the sale and delivery of school supplies.

[0009] The service provider may decide whether or not to allow the listing of school supplies based on the year in which the first user enrolled in or graduated from school.

[0010] The provider may decide whether or not to allow the purchase of school supplies based on the year the second user enrolled in or graduated from school.

[0011] The money or monetary value that constitutes the payment for the sale of school supplies may be transferred to the first user's account or to the school account associated with the first user. The first user may choose the account to which the money or monetary value that constitutes the payment for the sale of school supplies is transferred.

[0012] The listing of school supplies by the first user may require approval from the first user's parent or guardian.

[0013] The user interface screen for school supplies may become accessible to other users after the listing of school supplies has been approved.

[0014] In another embodiment, an information processing method is provided that is performed by one or more computers. The information processing method includes the steps of managing authentication information associated with a particular school, managing user registration and access from users, and providing users with a user interface screen for buying and selling school supplies. The steps of managing user registration and access from users include registering the school associated with the authentication information when any authentication information provided to students through a school administrator is entered in association with the user. The steps of providing include generating information for presenting a user interface screen for school supplies in response to an operation by a first user to list school supplies, and presenting the user interface screen in response to access from a second user if the school associated with the first user matches the school associated with the second user.

[0015] An information processing program according to yet another embodiment causes one or more computers to perform the steps of managing authentication information associated with a specific school, managing user registration and access from users, and providing users with a user interface screen for buying and selling school supplies. The steps of managing user registration and access from users include registering the school associated with the authentication information when any authentication information provided to students through the school administrator is entered in association with the user. The steps of providing include generating information for presenting a user interface screen for school supplies in response to an operation by a first user to list school supplies, and presenting the user interface screen in response to access from a second user if the school associated with the first user matches the school associated with the second user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, a school supplies reuse system suitable for buying and selling school supplies can be provided. [BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an outline of processing in the school supplies reuse system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an administration server of the school supplies reuse system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a sequence chart showing a processing example in the school supplies reuse system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a product listing screen in the school supplies reuse system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an authentication information database held by the administration server of the school supplies reuse system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of a user management database held by the administration server of the school supplies reuse system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure related to user management in the administration server of the school supplies reuse system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure at the time of listing in the administration server of the school supplies reuse system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure at the time of browsing and purchase in the administration server of the school supplies reuse system according to the present embodiment. [MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION]

[0018] Embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The same or corresponding parts in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0019] <A. Terms> First, several terms used in the description of the present specification will be explained.

[0020] In the present specification, the term "school" includes any organization that provides a place for education. For example, "school" includes nursery schools, kindergartens, elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools, universities, graduate schools, various vocational schools, and the like.

[0021] In the present specification, the term "student" includes natural persons who are scheduled to be affiliated with any school and natural persons who have been affiliated with any school. "Student" may include any of a person who is scheduled to enroll in any school (for example, a person who has passed an entrance examination), a person who has already enrolled in any school, and a person who has already graduated from any school. In addition to students in the narrow sense, "student" may also include nursery school children, school children, college students, and the like.

[0022] In the present specification, the term "school supplies" includes any article used at school. For example, "school supplies" may include (1) clothing items such as uniforms, coats, gym clothes (training wear), bags, shoes, neckties, belts, socks, rain gear, swimwear, and school meal clothes, (2) stationery such as pencils, notebooks, erasers, and ballpoint pens, and (3) other articles necessary for any school life.

[0023] <B. School Supply Reuse System> Next, the school supply reuse system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an outline of processing in the school supply reuse system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0024] In the school supply reuse system 1, a seller can list one or more school supplies for sale, and a purchaser can purchase any of the listed school supplies. A predetermined condition must be satisfied to become a seller or a purchaser. It can also be said that the school supply reuse system 1 provides a closed trading environment for each school.

[0025] Referring to Figure 1, the school supplies reuse system 1 is centered around an operating server 100 and includes a school management entity 200, students 300, a payment server 400, and a delivery management server 500.

[0026] The operating server 100 consists of one or more computers responsible for the processing necessary for operating the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment. Details of the hardware configuration of the operating server 100 and the processing performed by the operating server 100 will be described later.

[0027] School Operators 200 include administrative agencies, public interest organizations, corporations, and individuals that operate schools of their choice. It should be noted that School Operators 200 may also operate multiple types of schools as a single entity. In implementing the necessary processes for the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment, some or all of the school management entity 200 may be implemented by computer.

[0028] Student 300 refers to one or more students who are currently enrolled, planning to enroll, or have previously enrolled in a particular school. For the purposes of this explanation, the term "Student 300" will be used to refer to both individual students and groups of students. For the purposes of this explanation, a sub-number such as "-1" or "-2" will be assigned to distinguish Student 300 from other Student 300s.

[0029] The payment server 400 is responsible for processing payments related to the buying and selling of school supplies. Hereafter, the school supplies that are the subject of the buying and selling will also be referred to as "products." Some or all of the payment processing handled by the payment server 400 may be handled by the operation server 100 or by the delivery management server 500.

[0030] The delivery management server 500 is responsible for the delivery of goods from sellers to buyers and for managing such deliveries. However, the school supplies reuse system 1 may employ a delivery method that does not utilize the delivery management server 500.

[0031] Here, we will explain an example of the processing procedure in the school supplies reuse system 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0032] The operating server 100 provides authentication information 10 to the school operating entity 200. The authentication information 10 is associated with a specific school. For example, the authentication information 10 includes information to authenticate that a student 300 is planning to belong to or is currently belonging to a specific school. The authentication information 10 may also include information to authenticate that a student 300 was formerly belonging to a specific school.

[0033] The school administrator 200 provides the authentication information 10 obtained from the administration server 100 to the student 300. The student 300 uses the authentication information 10 to access the administration server 100.

[0034] Authentication information 10 is used when student 300 accesses the operating server 100. Once the student 300's identity is verified, the student 300 becomes able to buy and sell goods associated with the school to which they belong.

[0035] The operating server 100 provides a platform for students 300 to buy and sell goods. The platform provided may be a network-based flea market. In other words, a platform is provided in which, without authentication information 10 provided through the school operating entity 200, it is not possible to buy or sell goods related to the school operated by the school operating entity 200.

[0036] For example, student 300-1 accesses the management server 100 to list an unwanted product for sale. In the listing process, student 300-1 can attach photos of the product to be listed and enter a description of the product. Other students 300-2 and 300-3 who belong to the same school can access the management server 100 to search and browse the listed products. When student 300-2 purchases the product listed by student 300-1, student 300-2 performs a predetermined purchase procedure (for example, pressing a purchase button, performing a payment procedure, etc.). The money or monetary value (for example, points, etc.) paid by student 300-2 (hereinafter also simply referred to as "money") may be managed by the payment server 400.

[0037] Student 300-1, who is the seller, requests the delivery company 550 to deliver the purchased product. The delivery company 550 delivers the requested product to student 300-2, who is the purchaser. The delivery company 550 acquires information of student 300-1 or student 300-2 from the delivery management server 500 as necessary or depending on the situation.

[0038] Upon receiving the purchased product, student 300-2, who is the purchaser, accesses the management server 100 to report the receipt of the product.

[0039] When the product transaction is completed, the management server 100 may transfer the money paid by purchaser student 300-2 to the account of student 300-1 after deducting commissions and shipping fees as necessary. Alternatively, all or part of the money paid by purchaser student 300-2 may belong to the school to which the students belong. For example, all or part of the money related to the product transaction may be transferred to an account of an organization established in the school such as the PTA (Parent-Teacher Association). Transferring money related to product transactions to an account such as that of the PTA realizes an activity similar to a "bazaar" held by the PTA or the like. By providing a closed trading environment for each school, an online "bazaar" can be realized.

[0040] <C. Hardware Configuration> Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0041] (c1: Operating Server 100) Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the operating server 100 of the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment. Typically, the operating server 100 is implemented using one or more general-purpose computers.

[0042] Referring to Figure 2, the operating server 100 includes, as its main components, one or more processors 101, main memory 102, communication interface 103, input unit 104, display 105, and storage 110. These components are connected via an internal bus 106.

[0043] The processor 101 is composed of, for example, a CPU (central processing unit) and a GPU (graphics processing unit). Multiple processors 101 may be arranged. Alternatively, a processor 101 having multiple cores may be used.

[0044] The main memory 102 consists of volatile storage devices such as DRAM (dynamic random access memory) and SRAM (static random access memory). The storage 110 is It consists of non-volatile storage devices such as hard disks and SSDs (solid state drives), The storage 110 stores various programs and data executed by the processor 101. From the programs stored in the storage 110, the specified program code is loaded onto the main memory 102, and the processor 101 sequentially executes the computer-readable instructions contained in the program code loaded onto the main memory 102 to realize various functions as described later.

[0045] Storage 110 stores, for example, a system program 112, a service provision program 114, an authentication information database 120, a user management database 130, and a listing database 140.

[0046] The system program 112 includes an operating system (OS) that provides an environment for running arbitrary programs on the operating server 100.

[0047] The service provision program 114 includes one or more application programs for realizing the functions provided by the operating server 100. Some of the processing of the service provision program 114 may provide functions or libraries provided by the system program 112. For example, the service provision program 114 may include computer-readable instructions for providing a user interface screen for buying and selling goods to the user.

[0048] The authentication information database 120 is a database that manages the authentication information 10. The user management database 130 is a database that manages users who use the school supplies reuse system 1. The operation server 100 manages user registration and user access by referring to the authentication information database 120 and the user management database 130.

[0049] Listing Database 140 is a database that manages products that can be purchased through the school supplies reuse system 1.

[0050] The communication interface 103 is responsible for exchanging data with the school administration body 200, students 300, payment server 400, and delivery management server 500, etc. The communication interface 103 may include an Ethernet® port to enable communication over the Internet, for example.

[0051] The input unit 104 accepts arbitrary input instructions. The display 105 displays the processing results from the processor 101, etc.

[0052] All or part of the operating server 100 is a hardwired ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) or similar device that incorporates a circuit equivalent to a computer-readable instruction. It may be implemented using circuits. Alternatively, it may be implemented on an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) using circuits equivalent to computer-readable instructions. This can be implemented by combining components such as 101, main memory 102, ASIC, FPGA, etc., as appropriate.

[0053] The operating server 100 may further have components for reading the service provision program 114, which consists of computer-readable instructions, from a non-transitory medium that stores the said program. The medium may be, for example, an optical medium such as a DVD (digital versatile disc), or a semiconductor medium such as a USB memory stick. Furthermore, the service provision program 114 may not only be installed on the operating server 100 via the medium, but may also be provided from a distribution server on the network.

[0054] (c2: 200 school administrators and 300 students) The school administrator 200 and students 300 participate in the school supplies reuse system 1 using any device. The devices used by the school administrator 200 and students 300 include any information processing device such as personal computers, smartphones, tablets, and mobile phones.

[0055] The functions provided to the school administrator 200 and students 300 may be implemented by applications pre-installed on the terminals, or they may be accessed via the terminal's browser through a user interface screen provided by the administration server 100.

[0056] Various functions including providing user interface screens to the school management entity 200 and students 300 may be implemented using any hardware configuration and software configur ation.

[0057] (c3: Payment server 400 and delivery management server 500) In the payment server 400 and the delivery management server 500 as well, all or part of necessary processing may be implemented using a general-purpose computer.

[0058] <D. Processing example in school supplies reuse system 1> Next, a processing example in the school supplies reuse system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0059] FIG. 3 is a sequence chart showing a processing example in the school supplies reuse system 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 shows an instruction when the student 300-1 puts up an unnecessary product for sale and the student 300-2 purchases the put-up product (see also FIG. 1). For example, the student 300-1 is about to graduate from a specific school or has already graduated from the school, and puts up school supplies such as uniforms that are no longer needed for sale. On the other hand, it is assumed that the student 300-2 is about to enter the school or is a current student of the school, and needs school supplies such as a uniform.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 3, the school management entity 200 transmits, to the management server 100, a generation request that requests generation of authentication information 10 for students including the student 300-1 (sequence SQ2). In response to the generation request, the management server 100 generates the necessary authentication information 10 (sequence SQ4), and provides the authentication information 10 to the school management entity 200 (sequence SQ6). The school management entity 200 provides the authentication information 10 provided from the management server 100 to students who currently attend or are scheduled to attend the school (including the student 300-1) (sequence SQ8).

[0061] Student 300-1 accesses the operation server 100 (sequence SQ10). The operation server 100 requests student 300-1 to enter authentication information 10 provided by the school administrator 200. Once student 300-1 enters the authentication information 10, the operation server 100 performs authentication processing based on the entered authentication information 10 (sequence SQ12). If the authentication process is successful, the operation server 100 performs processes such as user registration for student 300-1 based on the entered authentication information 10.

[0062] Furthermore, the school administrator 200 sends a generation request to the administration server 100 requesting the generation of authentication information 10 for students, including student 300-2 (sequence SQ14). In response to the generation request, the administration server 100 generates the necessary authentication information 10 (sequence SQ16) and provides it to the school administrator 200 (sequence SQ18). The school administrator 200 provides the authentication information 10 provided by the administration server 100 to students (including student 300-2) who attend or plan to attend the school (sequence SQ20).

[0063] Student 300-2 accesses the operation server 100 (sequence SQ22). The operation server 100 requests student 300-2 to enter authentication information 10 provided by the school administrator 200. Once student 300-2 enters the authentication information 10, the operation server 100 performs authentication processing based on the entered authentication information 10 (sequence SQ24). If the authentication process is successful, the operation server 100 performs processing such as user registration for student 300-1 based on the entered authentication information.

[0064] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the execution times for sequences SQ2-SQ12 and sequences SQ14-SQ24 may be, for example, three years apart.

[0065] Note that the transmission of generation requests (sequences SQ2, SQ14) is performed via data exchange between computers. The process may be carried out by mail, or some or all of the process may be carried out by a person using email, telephone, fax, etc. Furthermore, the provision of authentication information 10 (sequences SQ6 and SQ8, SQ20) may also be carried out by computer-to-computer data communication, or some or all of the process may be carried out by a person using email, telephone, fax, paper media (such as mail or courier).

[0066] Student 300-1 accesses the operation server 100 and lists unwanted items on the user interface screen provided by the operation server 100 (sequence SQ30). Student 300-1 can attach photos of the items to be listed and write a description of the items. The operation server 100 registers the information of the listed items in the listing database 140 (Figure 2, etc.).

[0067] Student 300-2 accesses the operation server 100 and searches for and views listed products on the user interface screen provided by the operation server 100 (sequence SQ32). The operation server 100 refers to the listing database 140 (Figure 2, etc.) and provides a user interface screen containing the requested information.

[0068] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a product listing screen in the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment. Referring to Figure 4, the user interface screen 150, which is an example of a product listing screen, includes a product image 152, a title 154, a comment 156, a price 158, a purchase button 160, and an inquiry button 162.

[0069] Product image 152 may include one or more images of the listed product. The title (154) and comment (156) can be optionally entered by the seller. At least a portion of the title (154) and comment (156) may be automatically generated using AI (Artificial Intelligence) or similar methods. The price (158) can be optionally set by the seller.

[0070] The price of 158 may include shipping costs or exclude them. The seller may choose whichever they prefer. AI or similar technologies may be used to suggest an appropriate price for 158 based on the prices of similar items already listed.

[0071] When the purchase button 160 is pressed, the purchase process begins. When the inquiry button 162 is pressed, the user can send a message to the seller. Alternatively, or in addition to the inquiry button 162, a mechanism may be provided that allows the seller and one or more viewers to exchange messages. Such messages may be made public to other viewers, or they may not be made public to anyone other than the parties exchanging the messages.

[0072] Referring again to Figure 3, for example, if student 300-2 decides to purchase an item listed by student 300-1, they will proceed with the purchase procedure for the listed item on the user interface screen provided by the operating server 100 (sequence SQ34).

[0073] The operation server 100 changes the status of the target product to "Purchased" after the payment processing is completed by the payment server 400 (sequence SQ36). Based on the information from the operation server 100, the payment server 400 executes the payment processing according to student 300-2's purchase procedure. The payment server 400 temporarily holds the money paid by student 300-2 as payment for the product.

[0074] Furthermore, the operation server 100 starts managing product delivery (sequence SQ38). For example, the operation server 100 may provide information such as student 300-1 and student 300-2 to the delivery management server 500.

[0075] When student 300-1 ships the purchased product, the student accesses the management server 100 and notifies that the purchased product has been shipped on a user interface screen provided by the management server 100 (sequence SQ40). The management server 100 changes the status of the target product to shipped (sequence SQ42).

[0076] Note that the delivery management server 500 may notify the management server 100 that the product has been shipped upon receiving a notification from the delivery company 550 that the product has been picked up. In this case, the processing of sequence SQ40 may be omitted.

[0077] When the product arrives and student 300-2 confirms the product, the student accesses the management server 100 and notifies receipt of the product on a user interface screen provided by the management server 100 (sequence SQ44). The management server 100 changes the status of the target product to received (sequence SQ46). Then, the management server 100 performs settlement processing for the temporarily held money (sequence SQ48).

[0078] In sequence SQ48, after deducting a commission and shipping fee from the money paid by student 300-2, who is the purchaser, the management server 100 may transfer the remaining money to the account of student 300-1, who is the seller, or to the account of the school management entity 200. That is, the management server 100 may transfer money, which is the consideration for the purchase and sale of school supplies, to the seller's account or a school account associated with the seller.

[0079] <E. Authentication Information and User Management> Next, authentication information and user management in the school supplies reuse system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0080] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the authentication information database 120 held by the management server 100 of the school supplies reuse system 1 according to the present embodiment. The authentication information database 120 as shown in FIG. 5 is held in the storage 110 of the management server 100.

[0081] For example, in the authentication information database 120, multiple individual IDs 125 are associated with the school key 121. Each individual ID 125 is associated with a password 126 and an expiration date 127.

[0082] In this case, a pair of individual ID 125 and password 126 is provided to the student 300 as authentication information 10. That is, each student 300 will access the operating server 100 using the unique authentication information 10 provided to them. Since different authentication information 10 is provided for each student 300, the operating server 100 provides the school administrator 200 with authentication information 10 equal to the number of students 300 as an authentication information set 12.

[0083] The operating server 100 can identify a school by referring to the authentication information database 120 using the school ID 122 included in the authentication information 10 used for access from the students 300, and can then provide a school-specific platform based on the information of the identified school.

[0084] As mentioned above, in the school supplies reuse system 1, payment processing related to the buying and selling of goods is necessary, so it is preferable that the parents of the students 300, rather than the students themselves, be able to take the lead in the process. Also, from the parents' perspective, there may be multiple students 300 within the same family. Furthermore, these multiple students 300 do not necessarily attend the same school.

[0085] Therefore, in the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment, the guardian of a student 300 is registered as a parent user, and one or more students 300 can be registered as child users in association with the parent user. In other words, the user management function 22 is configured to register a parent user and one or more child users associated with the parent user.

[0086] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the user management database 130 held by the management server 100 of the school supplies reuse system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 6, assuming one family, a parent user 40 and one or more child users 42 are registered in association with each other in the user management database 130.

[0088] For example, first, an account for the parent user 40 is generated. A user name, a password, delivery destination information and the like are registered in association with the parent user 40. The user name may be an email address or any arbitrary nickname. Subsequently, an account for the child user 42 is generated in association with the parent user 40. A full name, school information, size information and the like are registered in association with each child user 42.

[0089] Here, for a child user 42, authentication information 10 provided by the school management entity 200 is input, and unless authentication processing based on the input authentication information 10 succeeds, school information is not associated with the child user 42. That is, for a child user 42, school information is associated and a platform unique to the associated school is provided only when the authentication information 10 is properly registered.

[0090] <F. Processing Procedure> Next, an example of a processing procedure executed by the management server 100 will be described.

[0091] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure related to user management in the management server 100 of the school supplies reuse system 1 according to the present embodiment. Each step shown in FIG. 7 may be implemented by the processor 101 of the management server 100 executing the service providing program 114.

[0092] Referring to Figure 7, the operating server 100 determines the type of access from the user (step S100). If the access from the user is a request for new user registration (in step S100, "new registration"), the operating server 100 provides the accessing terminal with a user interface screen for registering the user's account (step S102).

[0093] The operating server 100 obtains information entered through the user interface screen for registering a user account (step S104) and generates a user account (step S106). In other words, the child user is registered. Furthermore, if authentication information 10 has been entered (YES in step S108), the operating server 100 refers to the authentication information database 120 and performs authentication processing based on the entered authentication information 10 (step S110).

[0094] If the authentication process based on the authentication information 10 is successful (YES in step S112), the operating server 100 associates the school associated with the authentication information 10 that was successfully authenticated with the user (step S114). In this way, when any of the authentication information 10 provided to the student 300 via the school operating entity 200 is entered, the operating server 100 associates the school associated with that authentication information 10 with the user and registers it. Then the process ends.

[0095] Thus, when the operating server 100 receives any authentication information provided to the student via the school operating entity 200 in association with a user, it registers the school associated with that authentication information in relation to the user.

[0096] On the other hand, if the user access is a request for user login (in step S100, "login"), the operating server 100 performs user authentication based on the entered username and login password (step S116). If the user authentication is successful (in step S118, "YES"), the operating server 100 performs the login process (step S120). Then the process ends.

[0097] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure when an item is listed for sale on the operating server 100 of the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment. Each step shown in Figure 8 may be realized by the processor 101 of the operating server 100 executing a service provision program 114.

[0098] Referring to Figure 8, the operating server 100 provides a user interface screen for listing products to the accessing terminal in response to the user's access (step S200).

[0099] The operating server 100 obtains information entered through the user interface screen for listing products (step S202). The operating server 100 stores information for displaying the product listing screen in the listing database 140, associating it with the school information to which the accessing user belongs (step S204).

[0100] In this way, the operating server 100 generates information to display the user interface screen for school supplies in accordance with the user's operation to list school supplies for sale.

[0101] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the processing procedures for browsing and purchasing in the operating server 100 of the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment. Each step shown in Figure 9 may be realized by the processor 101 of the operating server 100 executing a service provision program 114.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 9, when the management server 100 receives an access from a user (YES in step S300), the management server 100 determines, among the information stored in the exhibition database 140, information associated with the school to which the accessing user belongs as a search target (step S302).

[0103] When the management server 100 receives a search request from the user (YES in step S304), it extracts information matching the search request from the search target information (step S306), and provides a user interface screen to the accessing terminal based on the extracted information (step S308).

[0104] As described above, in response to an access from the user, the management server 100 presents the user interface screen when the school associated with the user who is the seller matches the school associated with the accessing user. Furthermore, a plurality of schools having a relationship such as sister schools may be collectively regarded as the same school.

[0105] When the management server 100 receives a purchase instruction from the user (YES in step S310), it executes payment processing for the target product (step S312), and for the target product it executes delivery management processing (step S314). As described above, when a user performs a purchase procedure for school supplies on the user interface screen, the management server 100 executes processing related to the sale and purchase of the school supplies and processing related to the delivery of the school supplies. Then, the management server 100 changes the status of the target product stored in the exhibition database 140 to purchased (step S316).

[0106] Furthermore, when the management server 100 receives a report of product reception from the user, it transfers the temporarily held money to a predetermined account.

[0107] <G. Modifications> Next, several modifications of the school supply reuse system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0108] (g1: Approval of listed items) In the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment, certain school supplies may be made available for listing without the approval of the operator (or secretariat). For example, when an item belonging to a specific category, such as a textbook or reference book purchased for a fee, is listed by the operating server 100, the server may not immediately make the listed item available to other users, but instead maintain it in a pending approval state. While an item is in a pending approval state, the seller may be able to access the listing screen for that item, and information indicating that the item is pending approval may be displayed on the listing screen.

[0109] The operator will review the product in question and decide whether or not to approve its listing. The operator may contact the seller for further inquiries. The operator may use AI or other means to make at least part of the decision on whether or not to approve the listing of the product in question.

[0110] If the product in question meets the prescribed guidelines and criteria, the listing will be approved, and other users will be able to access the product listing page. On the other hand, if the product listing is not approved, the seller of the product may be notified that the listing was not approved. In this case, the listing page and other related information will not be made public to other users. Furthermore, the data of the listed product may be automatically deleted from the operating server 100.

[0111] Thus, user interface screens, including the product listing screen, may become accessible to other users after the listing of the product has been approved.

[0112] Furthermore, the prescribed guidelines and standards may be determined independently by each school in accordance with their educational policies and other factors.

[0113] Furthermore, a function may be provided that allows sellers to inquire with the operating server 100 (or administrator) about the approval of listing their items before actually listing them.

[0114] Furthermore, certain items may be prohibited from being listed. Examples include items that could be misused as identification, such as student ID cards; items not permitted for use at the school (e.g., mobile phones); items provided free of charge, such as textbooks; materials directly related to class content, such as handouts; and overly customized school uniforms.

[0115] By restricting the goods that are bought and sold, it is possible to manage and maintain ethics and other aspects within the school community.

[0116] (g2: Private sale or bazaar listing) As described above, in the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment, after the sale of goods is completed, the money paid by the buyer may be transferred to the seller's account or to the account of the PTA or similar organization. Hereinafter, the former case will be referred to as "private sale," and the latter case will be referred to as "bazaar listing."

[0117] Sellers may choose whether to conduct a private sale or a bazaar sale when listing an item, or after listing an item. Sellers may decide at their discretion whether to choose a private sale or a bazaar sale depending on the item being sold and the timing of the listing. Furthermore, sellers may change between private sales and bazaar sales at their discretion if circumstances change.

[0118] Thus, the seller may be free to choose the bank account to which the money or monetary value that constitutes payment for the sale of school supplies will be transferred.

[0119] (g3: Seller and buyer restrictions) In the school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment, sellers and buyers may be restricted based on factors such as the period of enrollment at the school.

[0120] For example, a seller may be a student currently enrolled in school or a student who has already graduated. However, their seller status may be revoked after a certain period has elapsed since graduation. For example, a student's seller status may be valid during their time at school and for one year after graduation.

[0121] Furthermore, the purchaser may be required to be a student currently enrolled in the school. In other words, students who have already graduated from school may be disqualified as purchasers, as they are not considered to have any reason to purchase school supplies (such as uniforms) from that school.

[0122] Such restrictions on sellers and buyers may be based, for example, on the student's enrollment and graduation years. Alternatively, the graduation year (e.g., 3 years later) and the validity period of the seller's qualification (e.g., 4 years later) may be determined based on each student's enrollment year. In cases where it is stipulated that each student is given authentication information 10 when they enroll in the school, management may be based not on each student's enrollment year, but on the time when the authentication information 10 was generated or when user registration based on the authentication information 10 was performed.

[0123] Alternatively, the restrictions on sellers and buyers described above may be based, for example, on the current grade level of the student who will be the seller or buyer.

[0124] As described above, the operating server 100 may decide whether or not to allow a user to list school supplies for sale based on the year in which the user entered or graduated from school. Similarly, the operating server 100 may decide whether or not to allow a user to purchase school supplies based on the year in which the user entered or graduated from school.

[0125] In addition to restrictions related to schools, providing a platform that restricts both sellers and buyers can prevent the misuse and unauthorized use of school supplies.

[0126] (g4:guardian) In the above explanation, for the sake of clarity, we have used the example of a student becoming a seller or buyer. However, in order for a student to become a seller or buyer, parental approval may be required. Alternatively, it may be possible to restrict the process so that only the student's parent or guardian can become a seller or buyer. stomach.

[0127] For example, as shown in Figure 6, when registering one or more child users in association with a parent user, based on the registered parent-child relationship, a notification requesting approval may be sent to the associated parent user when a child user lists or purchases an item.

[0128] Thus, a user may require parental approval to list school supplies for sale. Imposing such restrictions can ensure safe transactions by students, who are often minors.

[0129] (g5:consignment) The above explanation illustrates the process when a student or their guardian is the seller or buyer, but an entity that acts as an agent for selling or buying may also be provided. Such an agent, acting on behalf of the student or their guardian, would list the specified items for sale or purchase items that meet the specified items and conditions.

[0130] By employing such a proxy service, the effort involved in listing or purchasing items can be reduced. (g6: Integration with other systems) The school supplies reuse system 1 according to this embodiment may be linked with other systems. For example, it may be linked with a system for purchasing school supplies. By linking with a system for purchasing school supplies, for example, the user management process can be unified.

[0131] Furthermore, when a student puts up an item for sale, it may be required that they have a purchase history of that item. In other words, it may be required that items put up for sale in the school supplies reuse system 1 be items that were purchased legitimately.

[0132] <H. Other Embodiments> For convenience of explanation, an implementation example in which a single management server 100 executes various processes has been illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited to such an implementation, and any implementation can be adopted according to specifications and requirements. For example, a plurality of computers may cooperate to implement the functions provided by the aforementioned management server 100. In addition, all or part of the computer that implements the management server 100 may be a virtual computer on cloud computing. In this case, in reality, part or all of the management server 100 may be located overseas, and even in this case, it should be construed as falling within the technical scope of the present invention of the present application.

[0133] Furthermore, some of the functions provided by the aforementioned management server 100 may be executed by an application program installed on a terminal of either the school management entity 200 or a student 300, or by a payment server 400 or a delivery management server 500.

[0134] <I. Advantages> According to the school supplies reuse system according to the present embodiment, both sellers and purchasers can be conditioned on being affiliated or having been affiliated with a specific school, so the possibility that a third party unrelated to the school obtains school supplies specific to the school can be reduced. This enables implementation of a mechanism that can appropriately reuse school supplies.

[0135] The embodiments disclosed herein are to be considered illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims rather than the foregoing description, and it is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims. Description of Reference Numerals

[0136] 1 School supplies reuse system, 10 Authentication information, 12 Authentication information set, 22 User management function, 40 Parent user, 42 Child user, 100 Operating server, 101 Processor, 102 Main memory, 103 Communication interface, 104 Input section, 105 Display, 106 Internal bus, 110 Storage, 112 System program, 114 Service provision program, 120 Authentication information database, 121 School key, 122 School ID, 125 Individual ID, 126 Password, 127 Expiration date, 130 User management database, 140 Listing database, 150 User interface screen, 152 Product image, 154 Title, 156 Comment, 158 Price, 160 Purchase button, 162 buttons, 200 school administrators, 300 students, 400 payment servers, 500 shipping management servers, 550 shipping companies.

Claims

1. A means of managing authentication information associated with a specific school, A user management system for managing user registration and user access, The system includes a means of providing a user interface screen for buying and selling school supplies to the user, When any authentication information provided to a student through the school administrator is entered in association with a user, the user management means registers the school associated with that authentication information in association with the user. The aforementioned means of providing is In accordance with the operation by the first user to list school supplies, information is generated to display the user interface screen for the school supplies. A school supplies reuse system that, upon access from a second user, presents the user interface screen if the school associated with the first user matches the school associated with the second user.

2. The school supplies reuse system according to claim 1, wherein the providing means executes a process related to the buying and selling of school supplies and a process related to the delivery of school supplies when the second user performs the purchase procedure for the school supplies on the user interface screen.

3. The school supplies reuse system according to claim 1, wherein the providing means determines whether or not to permit the listing of the school supplies based on the year in which the first user entered or graduated from the school.

4. The school supplies reuse system according to claim 1, wherein the providing means determines whether or not to permit the purchase of the school supplies based on the year in which the second user enrolled in or graduated from the school.

5. The money or monetary value that is the consideration for the sale of the aforementioned school supplies is transferred to the account of the first user or the school account associated with the first user. The school supplies reuse system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first user can select an account to which the money or monetary value that is the consideration for the sale of the school supplies will be transferred.

6. The school supplies reuse system according to claim 1, wherein the listing of school supplies by the first user requires approval from the first user's guardian.

7. The school supplies reuse system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the user interface screen for the school supplies becomes accessible to other users after the listing of the school supplies has been approved.

8. An information processing method performed by one or more computers, Steps to manage authentication information associated with a specific school, Steps to manage user registration and user access, The process includes the step of providing the user with a user interface screen for buying and selling school supplies, The steps for user registration and managing user access include, when any authentication information provided to the student through the school administrator is entered in association with the user, registering the school associated with said authentication information in association with the user. The steps provided above are: In accordance with the operation of listing school supplies from the first user, the user interface of the school supplies The steps include generating information to present the screen, An information processing method comprising the step of presenting the user interface screen when the school associated with the first user matches the school associated with the second user, in response to access from a second user.

9. An information processing program, which can be used on one or more computers. Steps to manage authentication information associated with a specific school, Steps to manage user registration and user access, The process involves performing the steps of providing the user with a user interface screen for buying and selling school supplies, The steps for user registration and managing user access include, when any authentication information provided to the student through the school administrator is entered in association with the user, registering the school associated with said authentication information in association with the user. The steps provided above are: A step of generating information for displaying the user interface screen of school supplies in accordance with the operation of listing school supplies by a first user, An information processing program that includes the step of presenting the user interface screen when the school associated with the first user matches the school associated with the second user, in response to access from a second user.

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