Information processing device, program, and information processing method

Abstract

This invention provides an information processing device, program, and information processing method that can give both the inviter and the invited user a sense of value and a gamified experience when inviting new users. [Solution] According to the present invention, an information processing device is provided comprising a lottery processing unit and a value management unit, wherein the lottery processing unit determines, by lottery, a first grant amount and a second grant amount available for use in the service for the first user and the second user, respectively, on the condition that the second user registers to use the service after receiving an invitation from the first user, and the value management unit stores the first grant amount associated with the first user and the second grant amount associated with the second user.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for inviting other players to a network game. It also describes that when an invitee plays the game for which the invitation was received, benefits may be granted to both the invitee and the inviter.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, since fixed benefits are granted to the inviter and the invitee, while there is a certain merit in receiving the benefits, there is an aspect where the invitation and registration are performed mechanically.

[0005] The present invention provides an information processing apparatus, a program, and an information processing method that can give both the inviter and the invitee a sense of advantage and a game-like feeling regarding the invitation of new users, by determining the granted amount for the inviter and the invitee through a lottery process.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a lottery processing unit and a value management unit, wherein the lottery processing unit determines, by lottery, a first grant amount and a second grant amount available for use in the service for the first user and the second user, respectively, on the condition that the second user registers to use the service after receiving an invitation from the first user, and the value management unit stores the first grant amount associated with the first user and the second grant amount associated with the second user.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, the amount awarded to the inviter and the invited is determined by a lottery process, thereby providing both the inviter and the invited with a sense of value and a game-like experience when inviting new users. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This figure shows an overview of the value management system 1 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the hardware configuration of server 10 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the user terminal 20 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server 10 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of how the lottery processing unit 11a determines the amount to be awarded to each user. [Figure 6] This diagram shows the processing flow by the value management system 1 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This diagram shows the relationship between reaching the invitation limit for the first user and the determination of the grant amount in Modification 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the relationship between reaching the invitation limit for the first user and the determination of the grant amount in Modification 1 (another embodiment) of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This diagram shows the processing flow by the value management system 1 according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10]This figure shows an overview of the value management system 1 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server 10 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure shows the processing flow by the value management system 2 according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] This diagram shows the relationship between voting and reward distribution in Modification 1 of the Third Embodiment. [Figure 14] This diagram shows the relationship between voting and reward distribution in Modification 2 of the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Several embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The various features shown in the embodiments below can be combined with each other. Furthermore, each feature constitutes an independent invention.

[0010] <1. First Embodiment> (1-1. Value Management System 1) An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a server 10 that constitutes part of a value management system 1 as shown in Figure 1. The value management system 1 includes the server 10, user terminals 20a and 20b (hereinafter, in common descriptions, they may be collectively referred to as "user terminals 20").

[0011] Server 10 is configured to communicate with the user terminal 20a of the first user U1 and the user terminal 20b of the second user U2 via the communication line 5. Server 10 determines the amount of benefits to be awarded to each user by lottery, conditional on the second user U2 registering to use the service after receiving an invitation from the first user U1, and awards the benefits to each user. The following describes each configuration.

[0012] (1-2. Hardware configuration of Value Management System 1) The hardware configuration of the value management system 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0013] (1-2-1. Hardware Configuration of Server 10) Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the server 10 according to the present embodiment. The server 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a communication unit 13. Further, the server 10 may be provided with an operation input unit 14 that is constituted by a keyboard, a mouse and the like and receives inputs of various operations, and a display unit 15 such as a liquid crystal display device that displays various images.

[0014] The control unit 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a microprocessor, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) or the like, and controls the overall operation of the server 10.

[0015] A part of the storage unit 12 is constituted by, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or the like, and is used as a work area or the like when the control unit 11 executes processing based on various programs. Further, a part of the storage unit 12 is, for example, a nonvolatile memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and stores various data, programs used for processing of the control unit 11, and the like.

[0016] The programs stored in the storage unit 12 are, for example, an OS (Operating System) for realizing basic functions of the server 10, drivers for controlling various hardware, programs for realizing various functions, and the like, and include the program according to the present embodiment.

[0017] The communication unit 13 is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Controller) and has the function of connecting to the communication line 5. Alternatively, the communication unit 13 may have functions to connect to a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless WAN (Wide Area Network), short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth®, and infrared communication, either in place of or in conjunction with the NIC. The server 10 is connected to other information processing devices such as user terminals 20 via the communication line 5 and can send and receive various types of data with these other information processing devices.

[0018] These control unit 11, storage unit 12, communication unit 13, operation input unit 14, and display unit 15 are electrically connected to each other via a system bus 16. Therefore, the control unit 11 can access the storage unit 12, display images on the display unit 15, understand the user's operation status on the operation input unit 14, and access various communication networks and other information processing devices via the communication unit 13.

[0019] (1-2-2. Hardware configuration of user terminal 20) Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a user terminal 20 (user terminal 20a, user terminal 20b, etc.) according to this embodiment. The user terminal 20 is, for example, an information processing terminal such as a smartphone or tablet terminal, and comprises a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a communication unit 23. The user terminal 20 may also include a display unit 24 such as a touch panel display that can display images and accept operations, a speaker 25 that outputs sound, a microphone 26 that receives sound input, a camera 27 that captures images of subjects, and operation buttons 28. The following explanation will focus on the differences from the server 10.

[0020] The operation buttons 28 are located on the side of the user terminal 20 and include a power button for starting or stopping the user terminal 20, and a volume control button for the sound output by the speaker 25.

[0021] These components—the control unit 21, memory unit 22, communication unit 23, display unit 24, speaker 25, microphone 26, camera 27, and operation buttons 28—are electrically connected to each other via a system bus 29. Therefore, the control unit 21 can access the memory unit 22, display images on the display unit 24, understand the user's operation status on the touch panel display (display unit 24) and operation buttons 28, input sound to the microphone 26, output sound from the speaker 25, control the camera 27, and access various communication networks and other information processing devices via the communication unit 23.

[0022] (1-3. Functional configuration of Server 10) As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 11 of the server 10 includes a lottery processing unit 11a and a value management unit 11b. The control unit 11 may further include a user management unit 11c.

[0023] The lottery processing unit 11a determines, by lottery, the first and second grant amounts available for use in the service for each of the first and second users, U1 and U2, conditional on the second user U2 registering to use the service after receiving an invitation from the first user U1. The value management unit 11b stores the first grant amount associated with the first user U1 and the second grant amount associated with the second user U2. The user management unit 11c also receives a registration request from the second user U2 and stores the second user U2 as a user of the service. Details of the functions will be described later.

[0024] The functional configuration described above may be implemented by software (including so-called applications) appropriately installed on the server 10, or by hardware. When implemented by software, the control unit 11 can implement various functions by executing programs that constitute the software.

[0025] If implemented by executing a program, the program may be stored in the storage unit 12 built into the server 10, or in a non-temporary recording medium readable by a computer. Alternatively, the program may be read from an external storage device and implemented through so-called cloud computing. Or, if implemented by hardware, it can be implemented by various circuits such as ASICs, SOCs, FPGAs, or DRPs. Furthermore, some of the functional configurations or parts of the functions described above may be processed by software or hardware on a user terminal 20 or the like.

[0026] (1-4. Functions of the lottery processing unit 11a) The lottery processing unit 11a is configured to determine, by lottery, the first and second grant amounts available for use in the service for both the first user U1 and the second user U2, conditional on the second user U2 registering to use the service after receiving an invitation from the first user U1. By configuring it in this way, the grant amounts for the inviter and the invited are determined by a lottery process, which gives both the inviter and the invited a sense of value and a game-like feel to inviting new users.

[0027] Here, "service" refers to various individual or combined services that allow users to register, such as voting on competition results, listening to music and videos, shopping, communication, playing games, or various procedures. Such services may require user registration for use. Furthermore, differences in usage patterns between registered and unregistered users may be established, such as providing registered users with features unavailable to unregistered users. The Value Management System 1 is used in relation to such services.

[0028] Furthermore, whether user registration by second user U2 is based on an invitation from first user U1 can be determined based on information about first user U1 provided by second user U2, or information issued to first user U1 for new user invitations. For example, based on information such as the user ID of first user U1 transmitted by second user U2's user terminal 20b when requesting user registration and received by the user management unit 11c, it can be identified that the registration is based on an invitation from first user U1. Also, if second user U2 registers via an invitation URL issued to first user U1 using user terminal 20b, it can be identified that the registration is based on an invitation from first user U1.

[0029] The lottery process performed by the lottery processing unit 11a to determine the amount to be awarded to each user is conditional on the second user U2, who has received an invitation from the first user U1, registering to use the service, and can be executed after the second user U2 has completed the service registration.

[0030] The lottery processing unit 11a may independently determine the first and second award amounts by lottery. With this configuration, there is a possibility that the first and second award amounts will be different, which can facilitate communication about the results between the first user U1 and the second user U2. Alternatively, the lottery processing unit 11a may determine the first and second award amounts at once by lottery and set them to be the same amount. With this configuration, the first and second award amounts can be determined in a single calculation during the lottery, which can reduce the processing load.

[0031] In one embodiment, the lottery processing unit 11a may be configured to perform the lottery automatically without a user request. For example, immediately after the completion of registration for the second user U2, even if there is no request from either the first user U1 or the second user U2, the first and second grant amounts for the first user U1 and the second user U2 are determined by lottery, and the lottery results are notified to the users at the time of their subsequent use of the service.

[0032] Furthermore, users may be notified via email, push notifications through service-related apps, etc. The notification of the lottery results to users may also be performed by a lottery result notification unit or the like located in the control unit 11.

[0033] In one embodiment, the lottery processing unit 11a may be configured to perform the lottery process in response to a user's request. For example, upon registration of the second user U2, lottery rights are issued to both the first user U1 and the second user U2, and the lottery processing unit 11a receives requests from each user terminal 20a and user terminal 20b to execute the lottery process based on each user's lottery rights. The lottery processing unit 11a then executes the lottery process in response to each user's request and notifies the user of the lottery results. With this configuration, users can control the timing of the lottery process and enjoy the lottery in real time.

[0034] Furthermore, it is possible to control the system so that one lottery ticket allows for one lottery draw, or to control it so that multiple lotteries are possible. In addition, lottery tickets may have an expiration date. Furthermore, lottery tickets may be distributed as items or other means for conducting lotteries within the service, and the system may be configured so that a lottery can be conducted by using such items or means.

[0035] In one embodiment, the requirements for initiating the lottery process may differ between the first user U1, who is the inviter, and the second user U2, who is the invited. For example, the lottery processing unit 11a may be controlled to start the lottery process for the first user U1, who is the inviter, upon request from the user at any time, while for the second user U2, who is the invited, the lottery process may be controlled to start automatically following the user registration process.

[0036] The lottery process by the lottery processing unit 11a to determine the amount to be awarded to each user is conditional on the second user U2 registering to use the service after receiving an invitation from the first user U1. However, the lottery process may be configured to be performed only if other predetermined conditions are also met. These other predetermined conditions may include, for example, that the second user U2 has never previously registered to use the service, or that the registration was made within a predetermined period. Previous registrations can be verified based on information such as the second user U2's name, email address, or telephone number.

[0037] Here, "lottery" may refer to a process that determines the amount to be awarded from a predetermined range of amounts. In this case, the lottery process may be performed to select the amount to be awarded from the predetermined range of amounts based on a predetermined selection method. The "predetermined range of amounts" is, for example, 500 to 20,000 points (pt) if the value of the award amount available for use in the service is points.

[0038] "A prescribed selection method" refers to, for example, a method of randomly selecting from a predetermined range of amounts, or a method of selecting from multiple predetermined amounts that are selected with a predetermined probability.

[0039] In a method where a selection is made from multiple predetermined amounts chosen with a predetermined probability, for example, 500 points that may be selected with a 40% probability, 2000 points that may be selected with a 30% probability, 5000 points that may be selected with a 20% probability, and 20000 points that may be selected with a 10% probability may be provided. These predetermined amounts and their probabilities may be associated with each other and stored in the storage unit 12, etc., as a table that constitutes part of the database. Then, in the lottery process, one of these predetermined amounts is selected according to the random number generated.

[0040] Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the lottery processing unit 11a determines the first and second award amounts for the first user U1 and the second user U2, respectively, by lottery. The lottery processing unit 11a receives lottery requests from each user from the user terminal 20. In the example in Figure 5, the lottery processing unit 11a performs the lottery by selecting from a plurality of predetermined amounts that are selected with a predetermined probability. The lottery processing unit 11a selects and determines the award amount based on a random number it generates and a table 50 in which a plurality of predetermined amounts and their probabilities are stored in association. In a certain lottery, as shown in Figure 5, it is decided that 500 points will be awarded to the first user U1 and 20,000 points will be awarded to the second user U2.

[0041] Furthermore, the user management unit 11c manages the second user U2, who was invited by the first user U1 and registered to use the service, as a user who can invite new users.

[0042] (1-5. Functions of Value Management Unit 11b) The value management unit 11b is configured to store a first grant amount associated with the first user U1 and a second grant amount associated with the second user U2 in the storage unit 12, etc. By associating the grant amount with the user and storing the information, each grant amount is managed as if it has been granted to that user. Based on the stored grant amount information, the value management unit 11b can then accept requests from users to use the grant amount in the service.

[0043] (1-6. Processing flow by Value Management System 1) Referring to Figure 11, an example of the processing flow by the Value Management System 1 will be explained.

[0044] First, as shown in Figure 6, S200 and S100 are executed. In S200, the user terminal 20a of the first user U1 sends a request for invitation information to the server 10. In S100, the user management unit 11c of the server 10 issues the invitation information and sends it to the user terminal 20a. Here, the invitation information is information for inviting a new user, and more specifically, it is an invitation URL or invitation code (string, barcode or 2D code), etc.

[0045] Next, S205 is executed. In S205, user terminal 20a sends the invitation information to the user terminal 20b of second user U2. The invitation information may be sent via email or social networking service (SNS), or it may be sent by posting on SNS or a blog or posting on a homepage, which second user U2 can then access and obtain.

[0046] Next, S300 and S105 are executed. In S300, user terminal 20b sends a service registration application by second user U2 to server 10. In S105, user management unit 11c stores information of second user U2 in storage unit 12, etc., and registers U2 as a user of the service.

[0047] Next, S110 is executed. In S110, the lottery processing unit 11a issues lottery rights available to the first user U1 and the second user U2 and stores them. The lottery processing unit 11a also notifies the first user U1 and the second user U2 about the lottery rights by transmitting to the user terminals 20a and 20b.

[0048] Next, steps S305, S115 (lottery processing step), S120 (value management step), and S125 are executed. In S305, the user terminal 20b sends a request to the server 10 for processing a lottery based on the lottery right of the second user U2. In S115, the lottery processing unit 11a determines the second grant amount available for use in the service for the second user U2 by lottery. In S120, the value management unit 11b stores the determined second grant amount in the storage unit 12, etc., associating it with the second user U2. Then, in S125, the server 10 sends the second grant amount as a lottery result to the user terminal 20b and notifies the second user U2.

[0049] Next, S210, S130 (lottery processing step), S135 (value management step), and S140 are executed. These processes concern the first user U1 and its user terminal 20a, and are carried out in the same manner as S305, S115, S120, and S125, except that the first grant amount is determined.

[0050] Furthermore, steps S210, etc., may be performed before steps S305, etc. Also, the first grant amount may be notified to the second user U2, and the second grant amount may be notified to the first user U1.

[0051] (1-7. Modification 1 of the First Embodiment) In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, if the number of users registered by the first user U1 based on an invitation (invitation A) within a predetermined period due to registration by the second user U2 has reached the upper limit of the number of users that the first user U1 can invite, the lottery processing unit 11a may be configured to control the system so that even if a third user U3 who has received an invitation (invitation B) from the first user U1 registers to use the service, a lottery is not held to determine the amount to be awarded to the first user U1. By using such a configuration, it is possible to control the distribution of users who receive the benefits of the invitation so that it is not concentrated among specific users.

[0052] Here, "specified period" refers to the period during which registration by invitation can be accepted. It can also be defined as the period during which both the inviter and the uninvited can receive benefits through a lottery by having the invited person register. Specifically, this refers to campaign periods set by the service provider. If multiple similar or different campaigns are held, each of those campaign periods will have a different "specified period."

[0053] "Number of user registrations based on invitations from User U1 during the specified period" refers to the number of user registrations determined to have been made within the specified period as a result of an invitation from User U1. Even if an invitation from User U1 was used, second user registrations, user registrations made outside the specified period, or user registrations based on invitations made outside the specified period are not included in this count.

[0054] The "maximum number of users that User 1 U1 can invite" refers to the maximum number of user registrations that User 1 U1 can process through a lottery based on user registration via invitation within a specified period. It can also be described as the number of times User 1 U1 can receive the grant amount when other users register through their invitation.

[0055] For example, if the "maximum number of users that User 1 U1 can invite" is 100, then if User 2 U2 registers to use the service through User 1 U1's invitation when 99 users have already registered through User 1 U1's invitation, the maximum number of users has been reached. In this case, even if User 3 U3 registers to use the service through User 1 U1's invitation after User 2 U2 has registered, User 1 U1 will not be entered into a lottery based on User 3 U3's registration, and therefore will not receive any reward.

[0056] Furthermore, after the number of users registered based on invitations from the first user U1 during a predetermined period reaches the upper limit of the number of users that the first user U1 can invite, the lottery processing unit 11a may control the system to conduct a lottery to determine the amount to be awarded to the third user U3 if the third user U3, who has received an invitation from the first user U1, registers to use the service.

[0057] In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 8, if the number of users registered based on invitation A by first user U1 during a predetermined period due to registration by second user U2 has reached the upper limit of the number of users that first user U1 can invite, the lottery processing unit 11a may control the system so that even if third user U3, who has received invitation B from first user U1, registers to use the service, the lottery to determine the amount to be awarded to third user U3 is not conducted. This configuration makes it possible to invite users belonging to communities centered around various inviters. In other words, it is possible to control the system so that newly registered users who can receive the awarded amount through the lottery are not concentrated among those invited by a particular user.

[0058] In addition, it is possible to inform the third user U3's user terminal 20c (which has the same configuration as user terminal 20a) that the lottery cannot be held because the first user U1 has reached the maximum number of users it can invite.

[0059] (1-8. Modification 2 of the First Embodiment) In one embodiment, if the server 10 has registered to use the service after the cumulative number of users who have been invited by all users during a predetermined period has reached the upper limit of the number of users that can be invited by all users during that predetermined period, or if the cumulative amount that has been granted to users based on invitations by all users during a predetermined period has reached the upper limit of the amount that can be granted to all users during that predetermined period, the lottery processing unit 11a may be configured to control the server 10 so as not to conduct a lottery to determine the amount to be granted to the first user U1 and the third user U3, even if the third user U3 who has been invited by the first user U1 has registered to use the service. With such a configuration, it is possible to control the server 10 so as not to grant more than planned when the target grant amount or the number of users who have been invited to use the service has been achieved.

[0060] Here, "cumulative number of user registrations based on invitations from all users during the specified period" refers to the cumulative number of user registrations determined to have been made through an invitation from any user within the specified period. User registrations not made by invitation, second user registrations, or user registrations made outside the specified period are not included in this count.

[0061] The "maximum number of users that can be invited by all users within a specified period" refers to the maximum number of user registrations for which a lottery will be conducted based on user registrations made through invitations by any user within a specified period. It can also be described as the number of times that all users can receive the awarded amount through invitations.

[0062] "The cumulative amount granted to users based on invitations from all users during the specified period" refers to the total amount granted to inviters and invited users through user registrations that were determined to have been made through an invitation from any of the users during the specified period.

[0063] The "maximum amount that can be awarded to all users during a specified period" refers to the maximum cumulative amount that can be awarded based on user registrations made through invitations by any user within a specified period. It can also be said to be the maximum amount that all users can receive through invitations.

[0064] (1-9. Modification 3 of the First Embodiment) In one embodiment, the lottery processing unit 11a may be configured to determine the first grant amount by lottery based on the number of users registered based on invitations by the first user U1 during a predetermined period, or the total grant amount granted to the first user U1 based on invitations by the first user U1 during a predetermined period. With such a configuration, the lottery processing can be controlled in accordance with the user's invitation activity, taking into account the user's contribution through invitations and the amount of grants obtained through invitations.

[0065] Here, "the total amount granted to User U1 based on an invitation from User U1 during a specified period" refers to the total amount granted to User U1 through user registrations that were determined to have been registered by an invitation from User U1 during the specified period.

[0066] For example, the probability may be controlled so that users who invite more people are more likely to win a higher reward amount in the lottery. Alternatively, the reward amounts may be controlled so that the range differs depending on whether the number of invites is high or low.

[0067] (1-10. Modification 4 of the First Embodiment) In one embodiment, the lottery processing unit 11a may be configured to determine the first or second grant amount based on the cumulative number of users registered based on invitations from all users during a predetermined period, or the cumulative amount granted to users based on invitations from all users during a predetermined period. With such a configuration, the lottery processing can be controlled in relation to the overall invitation activity status in relation to the number of users registered or the amount granted by invitation.

[0068] For example, if the remaining amount available for granting is low and the number of invited users is small, the system will be controlled to make it less likely to win a high grant amount. Conversely, if the remaining amount available for granting is large and the number of invited users is small, the system will be controlled to make it easier to win a high grant amount.

[0069] <2. Second Embodiment> (2-1. Value Management System 1) The following describes the value management system 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The value management system 1 in the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it controls the exchange of value that a user can use within the service by obtaining value through invitations for value that can be used outside the service. The following will focus on the differences.

[0070] (2-2. Functions of Value Management Unit 11b) The value management unit 11b stores the first grant amount and the second grant amount as the amount of first value available in the service, stores the reward to be granted in second value according to the result of using the first value in the service, and is configured to control the second value so that it can be exchanged for value available outside the service. With this configuration, the first value (benefits obtained by invitation) can be made available in the service, while second value that can be exchanged for value available outside the service can be granted by using the first value, thereby increasing the motivation to use the first value.

[0071] Here, "value" in terms of first value, second value, etc., refers to a medium that circulates and can be used within a certain range, such as banknotes, electronic money, or points. When two different values ​​are interchangeable, exchanges can be made based on a fixed or fluctuating exchange rate.

[0072] The primary value is managed as a medium usable within the service. The scope of use of the primary value is limited to within the service, and its use outside the service is restricted. Furthermore, even within the service, the primary value may be further restricted to use only for specific purposes. In addition to the amount awarded based on invitation and determined by lottery, benefits and rewards obtained through other means may also be stored and managed as primary value, associated with the user.

[0073] The second type of value is managed as a medium usable within a service and also exchangeable for a third type of value usable outside of the service. "Value usable outside of the service" refers to values ​​usable in different services, points, electronic money usable for various types of shopping, or currency issued by a national government or its central bank.

[0074] Furthermore, the second value is awarded based on the results of using the first value within the service, but it may also be awarded by exchanging the third value for the second value. In one embodiment, the second value may also be managed so that it can be used directly outside the service.

[0075] (2-3. Processing flow by Value Management System 1) Referring to Figure 9, an example of the processing flow by the Value Management System 1 will be explained. In Figure 9 and the following explanation, processing similar to that of the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0076] In S135, the value management unit 11b stores the first allocation amount as the first value. Then, S140 is executed.

[0077] Next, S215 is executed. In S215, the user terminal 20a sends a request to the server 10 for the use of the first value within the service by the first user U1. The server 10 processes the use of the first value according to the request and calculates the reward to be given according to the result of the processing. The value management unit 11b then stores the reward as the second value along with its amount. At this time, the value management unit 11b may notify the user terminal 20a that the reward and the second value have been stored.

[0078] Next, S220 and S150 may be executed. In S220, the user terminal 20a sends a request to the server 10 to exchange the second value for the third value by the first user U1. At the same time, the amount of the second value to be exchanged is also specified and sent. The value management unit 11b, etc., may also inform the server of the exchange ratio in advance or when the exchange request is received. In S150, the value management unit 11b, in accordance with the exchange request, exchanges the specified amount of the second value for the third value based on the exchange ratio and stores it. The granting to the first user U1 may be performed in cooperation with a server, etc., that manages point accounts, electronic money accounts, or bank accounts of other services, so that the granted information is reflected.

[0079] <3. Third Embodiment> (3-1. Value Management System 2) The following describes the value management system 2 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The value management system 2 in the third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that, as shown in Figure 10, the control unit 11 of the server 10 further comprises a vote acceptance unit 11d, and the first value obtained by registration based on invitation can be used for voting on the results of the competition. The following will focus on the differences.

[0080] (3-2. Functional configuration of Server 10) As shown in Figure 11, the control unit 11 of the server 10 includes a lottery processing unit 11a, a value management unit 11b, and a vote acceptance unit 11d. The control unit 11 may further include a user management unit 11c.

[0081] (3-3. Functions of the Voting Reception Unit 11d) The voting reception unit 11d is configured to accept votes from the first user U1 or the second user U2 using the first value for the results of the competition. This configuration makes the first value available for voting on the results of the competition, thereby promoting the use of the first value by users.

[0082] Here, "competition" refers to matches or contests in which abilities or skills are competed. Examples of athletic competitions (sports) include races in which rankings are determined using bicycles, automobiles, boats, or racehorses, or baseball or soccer matches. Examples of competitions other than athletic competitions include matches in games such as shogi, go, chess, or card games, or matches in computer game tournaments.

[0083] Furthermore, "competition results" are information determined by the circumstances of the competition, which may include the progress made during the competition. For example, this includes information such as wins and losses in a match, points, finishing order in a race, or the performance of each competitor.

[0084] Furthermore, "voting" is the act of predicting or selecting the outcome of a competition, defining that outcome, and setting a voting amount for that outcome. In voting for a race where rankings are contested, for example, the combination of competitors who will come in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place is predicted to define the outcome, and a voting amount based on available value is set for that outcome.

[0085] The first user U1 or the second user U2 can use the first value for the results of the competition. As described in the second embodiment, the first value, which can also be obtained by registration by invitation, is available within the service. By enabling voting using the first value for the results of the competition within the service, it is possible to expect that users interested in such voting will use the first value. Furthermore, it is possible that users interested in such voting will actively engage in activities to invite new users. It is also possible that those interested in such voting will register to use the service after receiving an invitation.

[0086] The voting reception unit 11d may be configured to accept votes from the first user U1 or the second user U2 for the results of the competition, using a combination of the first value and the second value or other values.

[0087] (3-4. Functions of Value Management Unit 11b) The value management unit 11b is configured to store a reward calculated based on a multiplier corresponding to the content of the vote and the amount of first value used for the vote, as a reward to be given to the first user U1 or second user U2 who made the vote, in second value. This configuration makes it possible to use first value for voting on the results of the competition, and to encourage the use of first value by allowing users to obtain second value, which can be exchanged for value usable outside the service, in an amount greater than the amount of first value voted for, depending on the results of the competition.

[0088] Here, the "reward" obtained by voting on the outcome of a competition is the amount paid back to the user if their vote is correct, and it is calculated by multiplying the vote by the odds. A more concrete example is the amount of the so-called "payout" in bicycle racing, horse racing, etc. The "odds" are the odds set according to the content of the vote based on the overall voting trend. A more concrete example is the so-called fixed "odds" or "payout rate" in bicycle racing, horse racing, etc.

[0089] (3-5. Processing flow using Value Management System 2) Referring to Figure 12, an example of the processing flow by the Value Management System 2 will be explained. In Figure 12 and the following explanation, processing that is the same as in the first and second embodiments will be omitted.

[0090] After S140, S215 and S155 (vote acceptance step) are executed. In S215, the user terminal 20a sends a vote by the first user U1 to the server 10 using the first value for the result of the competition. In S155, the value management unit 11b stores the first awarded amount as the first value. Then, S140 is executed.

[0091] (3-6. Modification 1 of the third embodiment) In one embodiment, the value management unit 11b may be configured to store a reward in the form of a second value, which is also given to the first user U1 or the second user U2 who did not make the vote, when the first user U1 or the second user U2 uses the first value, which was granted to them based on the invitation of the first user U1 by the second user U2, to vote on the results of the competition. By configuring it in this way, communication between the inviter and the invited can be promoted even when using the amount granted based on the invitation.

[0092] As shown in Figure 13, the case where the first user U1 uses the first value granted to the second user U2 based on the invitation from the first user U1 to cast a vote C on the results of the competition is explained. In this modified example, in such a case, the reward calculated based on the multiplier corresponding to the content of the vote C and the amount of the first value used for the vote C is processed to be granted not only to the first user U1 but also to the second user U2.

[0093] Furthermore, if an invitation system is used in which the inviter and the invited user utilize the first value obtained through the invitation for voting, and the other user who did not vote also receives a reward, it may be possible to restrict the use of the first value obtained through the invitation to voting only. In addition, the reward for the other user who did not vote may be calculated in proportion to the amount of voting, based on the proportion of the first value obtained through the invitation.

[0094] (3-7. Modification 2 of the third embodiment) The voting reception unit 11d accepts votes on the condition that the vote for the results of a competition using the first value granted by the first user U1 based on an invitation from the second user U2 is a vote agreed upon by both the first user U1 and the second user U2. The value management unit 11b may be configured to grant the first user U1 and the second user U2 a reward calculated based on a multiplier corresponding to the content of the vote and the amount of the first value used, as a reward in the form of the second value. With such a configuration, the amount granted based on the invitation can be controlled to be available only by agreement between the inviter and the invited, and communication between the inviter and the invited regarding predictions of the competition results and until the results are known can be facilitated.

[0095] As shown in Figure 14, if a vote on the results of a competition using the first value granted by the first user U1 based on an invitation from the second user U2 is not made by mutual agreement between the first user U1 and the second user U2, the vote reception unit 11d will not accept the vote. The vote reception unit 11d will not accept a vote made solely by the will of each user.

[0096] The agreement between the first user U1 and the second user U2 may be formed between user terminals 20a and 20b, and the voting details, voting amounts, and confirmation of their agreement may be transmitted to the server 10 from either or both user terminals 20a and 20b. Alternatively, the agreement between the first user U1 and the second user U2 may be formed via the server 10.

[0097] (3-8. Modification 3 of the third embodiment) The value management unit 11b may store the amount awarded by lottery as a first value associated with the lottery, and the voting acceptance unit 11d may be configured to accept votes using the first value associated with the lottery for each lottery. By configuring it in this way, it is possible to restrict the use of amounts awarded by multiple lotteries in a single vote and increase the number of times a user can vote.

[0098] This explanation describes a case where the amount awarded in lottery A is determined, and the amount awarded in lottery B is determined, and these are stored as the first value associated with the first user U1 and each lottery. In this modified example, the first user U1 cannot use the first value associated with lottery A (amount awarded A) and the first value associated with lottery B (amount awarded B) together for voting. For example, if the amount awarded A is 1000 points and the amount awarded B is 2000 points, it is restricted from using them as a sum of 3000 points.

[0099] In one embodiment, the voting reception unit 11d may be configured to accept multiple votes in which the amount awarded by lottery is divided and used as the first value. For example, the first user U1 can make two votes using an awarded amount A of 1000 points, each using 500 points.

[0100] <4. Other Embodiments> While embodiments and modifications thereof of the present invention have been described above, the application of this disclosure is not limited to the above.

[0101] Furthermore, although the above embodiment primarily describes a configuration in which the server 10 provides each function, it is also possible to configure the system so that some functions are provided by the user terminal 20, or by both the server 10 and the user terminal 20.

[0102] For example, in the first embodiment, the lottery processing is performed in the lottery processing unit 11a, but the lottery processing may also be performed on a user terminal 20a or the like. For example, when the user terminal 20a communicates with the server 10 and confirms that a lottery is possible (e.g., permission to participate in the lottery has been granted, or unused lottery rights are recorded), the user terminal 20a performs processing to determine the amount to be awarded from a predetermined range of amounts. The results of the lottery may be transmitted to and stored in the server 10.

[0103] Furthermore, if the amount awarded by the lottery process is the upper limit of a predetermined range of award amounts, the lottery processing unit 11a may set a lower probability for the user who was awarded the upper limit to win the upper limit of the predetermined range of award amounts in the next lottery or subsequent lotteries.

[0104] Furthermore, if the amount awarded by the lottery process is the upper limit of a predetermined range of award amounts, the lottery processing unit 11a may reduce the upper limit of the number of users that the awarded user can invite.

[0105] Furthermore, if the total amount granted to users based on invitations from all users during a predetermined period falls below a certain threshold at a predetermined time, the lottery processing unit 11a may increase the upper limit on the number of users each user can invite.

[0106] Furthermore, if the first user U1 invites the second user U2 to register, and then the second user U2 invites the fourth user U4 to register, the lottery processing unit 11a may determine the amount to be awarded to the first user U1, in addition to the second user U2 and the fourth user U4, by lottery based on the registration of the fourth user U4. The amount to be awarded through such secondary invitations may be controlled to be less than the amount to be awarded through primary invitations by changing the probability or range of the amounts. In addition, a portion of the amount to be awarded to the second user U2 or the fourth user U4 may be allocated to the amount to be awarded to the first user U1.

[0107] Furthermore, the information processing device such as server 10 may include not only a single physical device, but also multiple devices connected via wired or wireless communication that function as a single information processing device.

[0108] Furthermore, each step described in the above embodiment as being performed by the server 10 may be implemented in a manner in which it is performed by the user terminal 20.

[0109] Furthermore, the present invention can also be implemented as a program that enables the operation of a stage management system to realize the above-described system.

[0110] Furthermore, the present invention can also be implemented as a computer-readable, non-temporary recording medium for storing the above-mentioned program.

[0111] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents.

[0112] <5. Features of the Embodiment> The features of embodiments of the present invention are summarized below.

[0113] A server 10 according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a lottery processing unit 11a and a value management unit 11b, wherein the lottery processing unit 11a determines by lottery the first grant amount and the second grant amount available for use in the service for each of the first user U1 and the second user U2, respectively, on the condition that the second user U2 registers to use the service after receiving an invitation from the first user U1, and the value management unit 11b stores the first grant amount associated with the first user U1 and the second grant amount associated with the second user U2.

[0114] This configuration allows the amount awarded to both the inviter and the invited to be determined by a lottery process, providing both the inviter and the invited with a sense of value and a game-like experience when inviting new users.

[0115] Furthermore, if the number of users registered based on invitations from the first user U1 during a predetermined period due to registration by the second user U2 has reached the upper limit of the number of users that the first user U1 can invite, the lottery processing unit 11a may control the system so that even if a third user who has received an invitation from the first user U1 registers to use the service, the lottery processing unit 11a does not conduct a lottery to determine the amount to be awarded to the first user U1. By using such a configuration, it is possible to control the system so that the users who receive the awards are not concentrated in a particular user.

[0116] Furthermore, if, after registration by the second user U2, the cumulative number of users registered based on invitations from all users during a predetermined period has reached the upper limit of the number of users that can be invited by all users during that predetermined period, or if the cumulative amount granted to users based on invitations from all users during that predetermined period has reached the upper limit of the amount that can be granted to all users during that predetermined period, the lottery processing unit 11a may control the system so as not to conduct a lottery to determine the amount to be granted to the first user U1 and the third user U3, even if the third user who received an invitation from the first user U1 registers to use the service. With this configuration, it is possible to control the system so as not to grant more than planned once the target grant amount or the number of users registered by invitation has been achieved.

[0117] Furthermore, the lottery processing unit 11a may be configured to determine the first grant amount by lottery based on the number of users registered based on invitations by the first user U1 during a predetermined period, or the total amount of grants granted to the first user U1 based on invitations by the first user U1 during a predetermined period. By configuring it in this way, the lottery processing can be controlled in accordance with the user's invitation activities by taking into account the user's contribution through invitations and the amount of grants obtained through invitations.

[0118] Furthermore, the lottery processing unit 11a may be configured to determine the first or second grant amount based on the cumulative number of users registered based on invitations from all users during a predetermined period, or the cumulative amount granted to users based on invitations from all users during a predetermined period. With such a configuration, the lottery processing can be controlled according to the overall status of invitation activities in relation to the number of users registered or the amount granted by invitations.

[0119] Furthermore, the value management unit 11b may store the first grant amount and the second grant amount as the amount of first value available in the service, store the reward to be granted in the second value according to the result of using the first value in the service, and control the second value so that it can be exchanged for value available outside the service. With this configuration, the first value (benefits obtained by invitation) can be made available in the service, while second value that can be exchanged for value available outside the service can be granted by using the first value, thereby increasing the motivation to use the first value.

[0120] Furthermore, the system may also include a vote reception unit 11d, which receives votes from a first user U1 or a second user U2 using the first value for the results of the competition, and the value management unit 11b may be configured to store a reward calculated based on a multiplier corresponding to the content of the vote and the amount of the first value used for the vote, as a reward to be given to the first user U1 or the second user U2 who made the vote, in the form of the second value. With such a configuration, the first value can be used for voting on the results of the competition, and the use of the first value can be promoted by making the second value, which can be exchanged for a value usable outside the service, available in an amount greater than the amount of the first value voted for, depending on the results of the competition.

[0121] Furthermore, the value management unit 11b may be configured to store a reward in the form of a second value when a first user U1 or a second user U2 uses a first value granted to them based on an invitation from the first user U1 to the second user U2 for voting. This configuration facilitates communication between inviters and invitedes even when using the amount granted based on an invitation.

[0122] Furthermore, the voting reception unit 11d may be configured to accept a vote using the first value granted by the first user U1 based on an invitation from the second user U2, provided that the vote is agreed upon by both the first user U1 and the second user U2. The value management unit 11b may then grant the first user U1 and the second user U2 a reward calculated based on a multiplier corresponding to the content of the vote and the amount of the first value used, as a reward in the form of the second value. This configuration allows the amount granted based on the invitation to be made available only by mutual agreement between the inviter and the invited, thereby promoting communication between the inviter and the invited regarding predictions of the competition results and until the results are known.

[0123] A computer program according to one aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to execute a lottery processing step and a value management step, wherein in the lottery processing step, a first grant amount and a second grant amount available for use in the service are determined by lottery for each of the first user U1 and the second user U2, respectively, on the condition that the second user U2 registers to use the service after receiving an invitation from the first user U1, and in the value management step, the first grant amount is associated with the first user U1 and the second grant amount is associated with the second user U2 and stored in memory.

[0124] An information processing method according to one aspect of the present invention is an information processing method in which a computer, on the condition that a second user U2, who has received an invitation from a first user U1, registers to use the service, determines by lottery a first grant amount and a second grant amount that can be used for the service for each of the first user U1 and the second user U2, and stores the first grant amount associated with the first user U1 and the second grant amount associated with the second user U2. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 1,2: Value management system, 5: Communication line, 10: Server, 11: Control unit, 11a: Lottery processing unit, 11b: Value management unit, 11c: User management unit, 11d: Voting reception unit, 12: Storage unit, 13: Communication unit, 14: Operation input unit, 15: Display unit, 16: System bus, 20 (20a, 20b, 20c): User terminal, 21: Control unit, 22: Storage unit, 23: Communication unit, 24: Display unit, 25: Speaker, 26: Microphone, 27: Camera, 28: Operation buttons, 29: System bus, 50: Table, U1: First user, U2: Second user, U3: Third user, U4: Fourth user

Claims

1. An information processing device comprising a lottery processing unit and a value management unit, wherein the lottery processing unit determines by lottery the first and second grant amounts available for use in the service for each of the first and second users, respectively, on the condition that a second user registers to use the service after receiving an invitation from a first user; the value management unit stores the first grant amount associated with the first user and the second grant amount associated with the second user; and when the second user registers at the invitation of the first user, and a fourth user registers at the invitation of the second user, the lottery processing unit determines by lottery the grant amounts for the first user in addition to the second and fourth users, based on the registration of the fourth user.

2. An information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the lottery processing unit, when the determined amount to be awarded is the upper limit of a predetermined range, sets a lower probability for the user who has been awarded the upper limit to win the upper limit in subsequent lotteries, or reduces the upper limit of the number of users that the user who has been awarded the upper limit can invite, or increases the upper limit of the number of users that each user can invite when the cumulative amount awarded to users based on invitations from all users over a predetermined period falls below a standard amount at a predetermined timing.

3. An information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the lottery processing unit controls the lottery processing unit so that, if the number of users registered based on the invitation of the first user during a predetermined period due to the registration of the second user has reached the upper limit of the number of users that the first user can invite, even if a third user who has received an invitation from the first user registers to use the service, the lottery processing unit does not conduct a lottery to determine the amount to be awarded to the third user.

4. A program that causes a computer to perform a lottery processing step and a value management step, wherein in the lottery processing step, a first grant amount and a second grant amount available for use in the service are determined by lottery for the first user and the second user, respectively, on the condition that the second user registers to use the service after receiving an invitation from the first user; in the value management step, the first grant amount is stored associated with the first user and the second grant amount is stored associated with the second user; and in the lottery processing step, if the second user registers at the invitation of the first user, and a fourth user registers at the invitation of the second user, the grant amount for the first user, in addition to the second user and the fourth user, is also determined by lottery based on the registration of the fourth user.

5. An information processing method comprising: a computer that, on the condition that a second user registers to use the service after receiving an invitation from a first user, determines by lottery a first grant amount and a second grant amount that can be used for the service for the first user and the second user, respectively; the computer stores the first grant amount associated with the first user and the second grant amount associated with the second user; and when the second user registers at the invitation of the first user, and a fourth user registers at the invitation of the second user, the computer determines by lottery an amount to be granted to the first user in addition to the second and fourth users, based on the registration of the fourth user.

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