Information processing apparatus and information processing program

Abstract

To present information about usage to a user who registers a file if another user different from the user uses the file registered so as to enable a plurality of users to use.SOLUTION: An information processing device issues second identification information (a feedback ID) to be used to register information (e.g., submission) on the use of a file to a using user in the case of outputting, from a storage part, the file registered by a registration user with first identification information (a key for file identification) of the file associated therewith according to a request from the using user, and performs control for recording information about the use of the file in the case of receiving the second identification information (the feedback ID) from the using user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various information exchanges such as files have been carried out using social network services (SNS). By using this SNS, information processing apparatuses such as a business transaction support apparatus that can promote sales for sellers and provide products and services to purchasers are known. For example, in Patent Document 1, a posting page generation means for generating a posting page for posting to an in-site SNS and an out-site SNS and transmitting it to an access source is provided to a terminal device (purchaser terminal) operated by a person who wishes to purchase, and a request for an estimate of a product desired to be purchased and / or a service desired to be provided input through the posting page displayed on the purchaser terminal is stored in a storage means as posting information for the in-site SNS, and is also posted to the out-site SNS. A posting means for storing, as posting information for the in-site SNS, estimate information indicating an estimate based on the estimate request information displayed on the terminal device operated by the seller who provides the product desired to be purchased and / or the service desired to be provided, and an SNS page generation means for generating a page on which the posting information stored in the storage means is posted as the posted information in the in-site SNS and transmitting it to the access source are provided. A business transaction support apparatus is disclosed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, when registering a file so that it can be used by multiple users, information such as other users' posts regarding the registered file is valid. However, information such as other users' posts may lack accuracy, and the user who registered the file may not be able to obtain appropriate information about the registered file.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing apparatus and an information processing program capable of presenting information regarding use to a user who registered a file when another user different from the user who registered the file uses the file registered to be available to multiple users.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] To achieve the above object, a first aspect is equipped with a processor, The processor is for a file registered in a storage unit by a registered user and associated with first identification information for identifying the file, when performing control to output from the storage unit in response to a request from a using user, issue second identification information for use in recording information regarding the use of the file to the using user, when receiving the second identification information from the using user, perform control to record information regarding the use of the file is an information processing apparatus.

[0007] A second aspect is the information processing apparatus according to the first aspect, The processor is after outputting the file, perform control to output the second identification information.

[0008] A third aspect is the information processing apparatus according to the second aspect, The processor is the information regarding the use of the file is evaluation information indicating an evaluation by the user who used the file.

[0009] The fourth aspect is an information processing apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the processor controls the print files among the files registered in the storage unit.

[0010] The fifth aspect is an information processing apparatus according to the fourth aspect, wherein the processor as an output of the file, controls the formation of the image of the file and the formation of the image indicating the second identification information in the image forming apparatus.

[0011] The sixth aspect is an information processing apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the processor when a plurality of the second identification information is received, controls to invalidate the reception of information regarding the use of the file after the second time.

[0012] The seventh aspect is an information processing program, which causes a processor to when, for a file registered in a storage unit by a registered user and associated with first identification information for identifying the file, performing control to output the file from the storage unit in response to a request from a using user, issue second identification information used for recording information regarding the use of the file to the using user, and when the second identification information is received from the using user, perform control to record information regarding the use of the file is an information processing program for causing the above to be processed.

Advantage of the Invention

[0013] According to the first aspect and the seventh aspect, when a file registered as available to a plurality of users is used by a user different from the user who registered the file, it is possible to present information regarding the use to the user who registered the information on the use. According to the second aspect, there is an effect that the content of feedback on the output file can be reflected as compared with the case where the second identification information is output before the output of the file. According to the third aspect, there is an effect that information indicating an evaluation of a user corresponding to the use of a file by the user can be presented as information regarding the use of the file. According to the fourth aspect, there is an effect that information related to a printed matter by a print file can be presented as compared with the case where information regarding the use of a print file is not considered. According to the fifth aspect, there is an effect that the amount of information of the second identification information can be suppressed as compared with the case where an image is not used as the second identification information. According to the sixth aspect, there is an effect that noise regarding the content of feedback can be suppressed as compared with the case where the second identification information is accepted without limitation.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0014]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment for implementing the technology of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that components and processes having the same functions may be given the same reference numerals throughout the drawings, and redundant descriptions may be omitted as appropriate. Each drawing is only schematically shown to the extent that the technology of the present disclosure can be sufficiently understood. Therefore, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to only the illustrated examples. Also, in the embodiment, descriptions of configurations not directly related to the present invention and well-known configurations may be omitted.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information processing system 10 according to the present embodiment. The information processing system 10 will be described as an example of a system to which the technology of the present disclosure is applicable, which enables registration and posting of files for printing (hereinafter referred to as printed files). Specifically, a system will be described in which, when a file for printing (hereinafter referred to as a printed file) is registered so as to be available to a plurality of users, it is possible to post feedback information such as other users' posts to the registered file.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 10 includes an information processing apparatus 20, a registration-side terminal 30, a usage-side terminal 50, and an image forming apparatus 60. These apparatuses are connected to a network NT (FIG. 2) and can communicate with each other via the network NT (FIG. 2). As an example, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), etc. are applied to this network.

[0018] Also, in the present embodiment, a case where the information processing system 10 is configured to be able to use the communication service 40 will be described. The communication service 40 is an example of a system that provides a place capable of supporting the construction of communication between users by sharing information such as file sharing using a network. The communication service 40 can be applied to communication services that enable communication between users, such as SNS, Internet forums, news sites, and blogs. In the present embodiment, as an example of the communication service 40, SNS is applied, and hereinafter, the communication service 40 will be described by referring to it as SNS40. Since communication services such as SNS are well-known technologies, detailed descriptions of their configurations and operations will be omitted.

[0019] The information processing apparatus 20 is an apparatus that executes processing to assist a registered user in allowing a usage user to use a print file and post feedback information of the usage user who has used the print file. Specifically, it is an information processing apparatus that executes a series of processing flows that enable a user who has registered a print file (hereinafter referred to as a registered user) to refer to posts such as feedback from a user who has used the print file (hereinafter referred to as a usage user).

[0020] The information processing apparatus 20 includes a file registration unit 22 that executes a process of registering a print file, and a feedback posting unit 24 that executes a feedback process for the print file. Further, the information processing apparatus 20 includes a database 22D for registering the print file.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration when the information processing system 10 according to the present embodiment is applied to a specific apparatus.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing apparatus 20 includes a file registration unit 22 and a feedback posting unit 24. The file registration unit 22 and the feedback posting unit 24 are connected to the network NT and can communicate with each other via the network NT. In the present embodiment, the file registration unit 22 and the feedback posting unit 24 cooperate to operate and function as the information processing apparatus 20. Therefore, the information processing system 10 includes the information processing apparatus 20 including the file registration unit 22 and the feedback posting unit 24, a registration-side terminal 30, an SNS 40, a usage-side terminal 50, and an image forming apparatus 60.

[0023] (Registration-side terminal) The registration-side terminal 30 is a terminal device that is operated by a registration user and transmits various instructions to the information processing apparatus 20 regarding processes such as registration of a print file and browsing of feedback information for the registered print file. As an example, a general-purpose computer device such as a server computer or a personal computer (PC) is applied to the registration-side terminal 30.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 3, the registration terminal 30 includes a computer main body 30X, and is provided with a CPU 31, a RAM 32, a ROM 33, and an I / O 35, which are connected to each other via a bus Bus. A storage unit 34 that can be realized by an HDD, a non-volatile flash memory, etc. is connected to the bus Bus. Further, a communication unit 36 for communicating with an external device, an operation input unit 37 for a registered user to confirm a display and perform an operation input, and a display unit 38 for displaying information are connected to the I / O 35. A registration terminal processing program 30P is stored in the storage unit 34.

[0025] (Using-side terminal) The using-side terminal 50 is a terminal device that is operated by a using user and transmits various instructions regarding the use of a registration file and the processing such as posting feedback information for the used registration file. The using-side terminal 50 has the same configuration as the registration terminal 30.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 4, the using-side terminal 50 includes a computer main body 50X, and is provided with a CPU 51, a RAM 52, a ROM 53, and an input / output port (I / O) 55, which are connected to each other via a bus Bus. A storage unit 54 is connected to the bus Bus. Further, a communication unit 56, an operation input unit 57, and a display unit 58 are connected to the I / O 55. A using-side terminal processing program 50P is stored in the storage unit 54.

[0027] (Image forming apparatus) The image forming apparatus 60 is a device that executes a process of printing a registration file in response to a request from a using user. The image forming apparatus 60 is configured to include a general-purpose computer device.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 5, the image forming apparatus 60 includes a computer main body 60X, and is provided with a CPU 61, a RAM 62, a ROM 63, and an input / output port (I / O) 65, which are connected to each other via a bus Bus. A storage unit 64 is connected to the bus Bus. Further, a communication unit 66, a UI unit 67 such as a touch panel capable of displaying an image, and a proprietary mechanism 68 are connected to the I / O 65.

[0029] The inherent mechanism 68 includes mechanisms specific to the devices for realizing the image processing function. The image processing function includes an image forming function that includes an image copying function for copying (duplicating) a document and an image printing function for printing (printing) the data of the input document, and an image reading function for reading (scanning) the document as an image and converting it into data as an example. Also, as an example, the inherent mechanism 68 includes a scanner for scanning a document and a printer for printing various data. In the storage unit 64, an inherent program 60P for causing the image forming apparatus 60 to function as a realization apparatus for realizing the image processing function is stored. Also, various data 60D used in the image forming apparatus 60 are stored in the storage unit 64. Thereby, the image forming apparatus 60 that has executed the inherent program 60P operates so as to be able to execute an image processing function including an image forming function and an image reading function.

[0030] (File registration unit) The file registration unit 22 is an execution device that executes processes related to the registration of print files, and is also a functional unit that realizes some functions of the information processing apparatus 20. Specifically, the file registration unit 22 is a device that executes a process of registering a print file in the database 22D according to an instruction from a registering user. That is, when a print file is transmitted from the registration-side terminal 30, the file registration unit 22 stores the transmitted print file in the database 22D. Also, it issues a key (file identification key) as first identification information for uniquely identifying the print file, and registers it in the database 22D. Also, the file registration unit 22 has a function of issuing a key (feedback ID) as second identification information for identifying that feedback on the print file is possible when printing of the print file is requested and the printing of the print file is completed, and registering it in the database 22D.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 6, the file registration unit 22 includes a computer main body 220. The computer main body 220 includes a CPU 221, a RAM 222, a ROM 223, a storage unit 224, and an I / O 225. The CPU 221, the RAM 222, the ROM 223, the storage unit 224, and the I / O 225 are connected to each other via a bus Bus.

[0032] Further, to the I / O 225, functional units including a communication unit 226 that enables communication with an external device, an operation input unit 227, and a display unit 228 are connected. These functional units are mutually communicable with the CPU 221 via the I / O 225.

[0033] The computer main body 220 may be configured as a sub-control unit that controls some operations of the information processing apparatus 20, or may be configured as a part of a main control unit that controls the entire operation of the information processing apparatus 20. For some or all of the blocks of the computer main body 220, for example, an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration) or an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip set is used. Individual circuits may be used for the above-mentioned respective blocks, or circuits in which some or all are integrated may be used. The above-mentioned respective blocks may be provided integrally, or some blocks may be provided separately. Also, in each of the above-mentioned blocks, a part thereof may be provided separately. For the integration of the computer main body 220, not only LSI but also a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor may be used.

[0034] The storage unit 224 stores a file processing program 22P for causing the information processing apparatus 20 to function as an execution apparatus for file registration processing. The CPU 221 reads the file processing program 22P from the storage unit 224, expands it in the RAM 230, and executes the processing. Thereby, the file registration unit 22 that has executed the file processing program 22P operates as the information processing apparatus of the present disclosure. The file processing program 22P may be provided by a recording medium such as a CD-ROM. The CPU 221 reads the file processing program 22P from the storage unit 224, expands it in the RAM 222, and executes the processing. Thereby, the file registration unit 22 that has executed the file processing program 22P operates as the information processing apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0035] Also, the storage unit 224 stores a database (DB) 22D that accumulates data that can be used by the information processing apparatus 20. The database 22D is not limited to being stored in the storage unit 224. For example, it may be stored in an external device (not shown) used in a file server or the like, and inquiries and writing may be made to the external device (not shown) via a communication line.

[0036] (Feedback Submission Unit) The feedback submission unit 24 is an execution apparatus that executes processing related to feedback processing for a print file, and is also a functional unit that realizes some functions of the information processing apparatus 20. Specifically, the feedback submission unit 24 is an apparatus that executes a process of registering feedback information including feedback on a print file by a key (feedback ID) as second identification information issued at the time of printing the print file. For example, it is an apparatus that can proxy feedback to the SNS 40.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 7, similar to the file registration unit 22, the feedback posting unit 24 includes a computer main body 240 and includes a CPU 241, a RAM 242, a ROM 243, a storage unit 244, and an I / O 245. These are connected to each other via a bus Bus. Further, each functional unit including a communication unit 246, an operation input unit 247, and a display unit 248 is connected to the I / O 245.

[0038] The storage unit 244 stores a feedback processing program 24P for causing the information processing apparatus 20 to function as an execution apparatus for feedback posting processing. The CPU 241 reads the feedback processing program 24P from the storage unit 224, expands it in the RAM 243, and executes the processing. As a result, the feedback posting unit 24 that has executed the feedback processing program 24P operates as the information processing apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0039] (Operation of the information processing system) Next, the operation of the information processing system 10 will be described centering on the operation of the information processing apparatus 20 according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which a print file is registered as available to a use user by a registration user, the registered print file is printed by the use user using the image forming apparatus 60, and then the use user posts feedback information regarding the printed print file.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of each of the apparatuses in the information processing system 10 and the flow of information processing between the apparatuses.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 8, the registration user uploads a print file to be registered to the file registration unit 22 of the information processing apparatus 20 (step S200). Specifically, the CPU 31 of the registration side terminal 30 transmits the print file designated by the registration user to the file registration unit 22 as a file for registration. Note that the print file that the registration user wishes to register can be specified, for example, by the file name of the print file.

[0042] The file registration unit 22 receives a print file (for example, a print file by file name) from the registration-side terminal 30 and executes the registration process of the print file (step S202). The registration process of the print file includes registering the received print file in the database 22D and generating a file identification key for identifying the registered print file. In the registration process of the print file, the print file (for example, the file name) and the file identification key are registered in association with each other. Specifically, the CPU 221 of the file registration unit 22 receives the print file from the registration-side terminal 30 and registers it in the database 22D. Also, the CPU 221 of the file registration unit 22 generates a file identification key. That is, when the print file is registered in the database 22D, a file identification key for associating with the registered print file is generated and registered. Note that the information to be registered in the database 22D may be information including, for example, the registration date and time and the size (capacity) of the file, which is registered as information related to the print file in association with the file name or the file identification key. The information related to the print file can include information indicating the position of the registered print file on the database 22D, for example, a position where the print file registered via the network NT can be specified. Then, the file registration unit 22 executes a process of issuing, that is, transmitting at least the generated file identification key as a response to the registration-side terminal 30 that has received the registration request (step S204). Note that in step S204, a reduced image (for example, a thumbnail image) of the registered print file may be generated, and information including the generated reduced image and information related to the file may be transmitted.

[0043] The file identification key, after registration, has an aspect as information indicating that the registered print file is identified by the file identification key and printed, that is, as reservation information for which printing is reserved. In this aspect, reservation information for reserving printing may be registered. As the file identification key, string information indicating a character string composed of alphanumeric characters and symbols with a predetermined number of digits (for example, 8 digits or 12 digits) is applicable. In generating this file identification key, it is preferable to generate string information indicating a character string formed by, for example, a combination of random characters so as to be unique information for each print file. Note that the file identification key is not limited to string information and may be code information (1-dimensional or 2-dimensional barcodes) corresponding to the string information.

[0044] Therefore, upon receiving a registration request for a print file from the registration-side terminal 30, the information processing apparatus 20 registers the print file in the database 22D, generates at least a file identification key for identifying the print file, and transmits it as a response to the registration-side terminal 30.

[0045] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of information regarding a print file registered in the database 22D. As shown in FIG. 9, the information regarding the print file is registered with each piece of information, namely, the file identification key, the position of the registered print file on the database 22D (file storage position), and the share flag, associated with each other. The share flag is information indicating whether the print file is available to the user who uses it. When the print file is set to be available to the user who uses it, "YES" is stored, and otherwise, "NO" is stored.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 8, through the above-described information processing, the registered user can obtain a file identification key, that is, information for identifying the print file that the user wishes to register on the network NT. After obtaining the file identification key, in order to make the registered print file available to the using user, the registered user posts information including the file identification key to the SNS 40 (step S206). Specifically, the CPU 31 of the registration-side terminal 30 posts by transmitting information regarding the print file, which includes the print file (e.g., thumbnail image) and the file identification key associated with the print file, to the SNS 40.

[0047] When the share flag is set to "NO" by the registered user, the registered print file is either not posted to the SNS 40 or is posted to the SNS 40 as unavailable to the using user. On the other hand, when the share flag is set to "YES", the registered print file is posted to the SNS 40 as available to the using user. In this posting, the using user can view the print file (e.g., thumbnail image), and information including the file identification key of the print file is posted.

[0048] The SNS 40 receives the posting from the registration-side terminal 30 and performs control to make it viewable by the user.

[0049] On the other hand, by viewing the posting on the SNS 40, the using user views the print file (e.g., thumbnail image) of the registered user (step S208), identifies the print file to be used, and obtains the file identification key of the print file (step S210). Specifically, in order to view the posting on the SNS 40 by the using user, the CPU 51 of the usage-side terminal 50 accesses the SNS 40, transmits a signal indicating a request to view the posting, and receives the file identification key for identifying the print file posted by the registered user from the SNS 40.

[0050] Then, in order for the user to use (print) the identified print file, the user inputs a file identification key for the print file in the image forming apparatus 60 (step S212). The image forming apparatus 60 receives a print instruction for the print file from the user. Specifically, the CPU 61 of the image forming apparatus 60 obtains a file identification key indicating the print file by reading the input information of the UI unit 67.

[0051] The image forming apparatus 60 requests the file registration unit 22 for a print file corresponding to the file identification key input by the user (step S214). Specifically, the CPU 61 of the image forming apparatus 60 requests the output of the print file by transmitting the file identification key input to the file registration unit 22.

[0052] The file registration unit 22 transmits, as a response to the image forming apparatus 60, the print file corresponding to the received file identification key (step S216). Specifically, the CPU 221 of the file registration unit 22 extracts the print file (FIG. 9) registered in association with the received file identification key from the database 22D and returns it to the image forming apparatus 60.

[0053] The image forming apparatus 60 receives the print file transmitted from the file registration unit 22 and executes a printing process (step S217).

[0054] Therefore, the information processing apparatus 20 identifies the corresponding print file using the database 22D in response to the output request of the print file by the file identification key from the image forming apparatus 60, and transmits the identified print file to the image forming apparatus 60 as a response.

[0055] Next, when the image forming apparatus 60 finishes printing the print file, it requests the file registration unit 22 for a feedback ID (step S218). Specifically, the CPU 61 of the image forming apparatus 60 requests the feedback ID by transmitting information indicating that the feedback ID associated with the printed print file is to be output to the file registration unit 22.

[0056] When the file registration unit 22 receives information indicating a request for a feedback ID, it executes a process of generating a feedback ID and registers it in the database 22D (step S220). The file registration unit 22 transmits the generated feedback ID to the image forming apparatus 60 as a response (step S222). Specifically, when the CPU 221 of the file registration unit 22 receives a request for a feedback ID, it generates a feedback ID (FIG. 10) and returns it to the image forming apparatus 60.

[0057] For the feedback ID, string information indicating a character string including alphanumeric characters or symbols with a predetermined number of digits (for example, 14 digits or 16 digits) can be applied. In the generation of this feedback ID, it is preferable to generate string information indicating a character string formed by, for example, a combination of random characters so as to be a unique feedback for each printed file. Note that the feedback ID is not limited to string information, and may be code information (1D or 2D barcode) corresponding to the string information.

[0058] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of information regarding the feedback ID for the printed file registered in the database 22D. As shown in FIG. 10, the information regarding the feedback ID for the printed file is registered in association with each piece of information including the feedback ID, the file identification key, and the valid flag indicating the validity of the feedback ID. When the valid flag indicates that the feedback ID is valid, that is, when the feedback ID is a feedback ID indicating that feedback is possible for the printed file, "YES" is stored, and otherwise "NO" is stored.

[0059] When the valid flag is "NO" by the registered user, feedback is prohibited (the feedback ID is invalidated). On the other hand, when the valid flag is "YES", feedback is accepted. The valid flag set to "YES" is changed from "YES" to "NO" by a predetermined number of times (for example, once) of feedback (details will be described later).

[0060] As shown in FIG. 8, the image forming apparatus 60 receives the feedback ID transmitted from the file registration unit 22 and presents it to the user side (steps S223 and S224). The process of presenting the feedback ID to the user side may be provided as a printed matter printed by the CPU 61 of the image forming apparatus 60 executing the specific program 60P, or may be provided by displaying information on the UI unit 67 (step S223). Further, the CPU 61 of the image forming apparatus 60 may transmit information indicating the feedback ID to the user terminal 50 by mail or the like and provide it (step S224).

[0061] By the above-described information processing, the user can obtain a printed matter from the print file, and can also obtain a feedback ID for the feedback posting unit 24 that enables feedback on the print file. When the user obtains the feedback ID, the user accesses the feedback posting unit 24 in order to enable feedback on the printed print file (step S226).

[0062] Note that by providing the feedback ID after printing the print file, it is possible to execute the printing of the print file and the feedback on the print file asynchronously with a time difference. By doing so, for example, it is possible to suppress the user from occupying the use of the image forming apparatus 60, and it is possible to shorten the use time of the image forming apparatus 60.

[0063] The feedback posting unit 24 transmits information indicating a feedback posting request as a response to the access from the user terminal 50 (step S228). The information indicating the feedback posting request includes information for inputting feedback information including the user's impressions and opinions in a format that allows the feedback information to be posted corresponding to the print file. For example, the CPU 241 of the feedback posting unit 24 returns posting information in a format (input format) that enables posting of feedback information in which the feedback ID is associated with the posting content including the user's impressions and opinions to the user terminal 50.

[0064] The user responds to the feedback submission request by inputting feedback according to the submission information from the feedback submission unit 24 (step S230). Specifically, the CPU 51 of the user terminal 50 performs an input process on information including feedback on the submission information received from the feedback submission unit 24, and transmits the submission information with the feedback input by the user to the feedback submission unit 24 as a response.

[0065] When the feedback submission unit 24 receives a response to the submission information from the user terminal 50, it posts the feedback information to the SNS 40 (step S232). Specifically, the CPU 241 of the feedback submission unit 24 posts to the SNS 40 by transmitting feedback information in which a feedback ID is associated with the submission content including feedback such as the user's feelings and opinions.

[0066] The SNS 40 receives the submission from the feedback submission unit 24 and performs control to make it viewable by the user.

[0067] Therefore, the information processing apparatus 20 transmits feedback information including feedback from the user terminal 50 with a feedback ID determined to be postable to the SNS 40.

[0068] In addition, when the feedback posting unit 24 receives feedback information from the user terminal 50, it executes a process of restricting the use of the feedback ID (step S234). Specifically, when the CPU 241 of the feedback posting unit 24 receives feedback information from the user terminal 50, it executes a predetermined process of invalidating the use of the feedback ID. As the predetermined process for invalidating the use of the feedback ID, a process of setting the number of times of use of the feedback ID is applied. For example, by setting the number of times of use to "0", it becomes possible to restrict multiple postings by the same user. Also, by setting the number of times of use to "1" or more, it becomes possible to allow multiple postings by the same user up to the set number of times, and to restrict the postings to the set number of times.

[0069] Therefore, the information processing apparatus 20 can restrict the posting of feedback information including feedback from the user terminal 50 using the feedback ID determined to be postable, to a predetermined number of postings, by the process of restricting the use of the feedback ID.

[0070] By the information processing described above, the registered user can view the feedback on the printed file. Specifically, the registered user requests the SNS 40 to view the feedback posted via the feedback posting unit 24 using the registration terminal 30 (step S236). The SNS 40 transmits the posted feedback to the registration terminal 30 as a response to the request from the registration terminal 30 (step S238).

[0071] As described above, according to the present embodiment, by using the file identification key generated at the time of registration, which is different from the file identification key, and the feedback ID generated at the time of printing, it is possible to print the printed file and provide feedback on the printed file. In this way, by making feedback possible when the printed file is printed using the feedback ID generated at the time of printing, it becomes possible to suppress feedback in the case of non-printing.

[0072] In the above-described embodiments, the case where each of the registration-side terminal 30 and the usage-side terminal 50 includes one unit has been described. However, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and a configuration including a plurality of terminal devices of at least one of the registration-side terminal 30 and the usage-side terminal 50 may be adopted. Also, although an information processing system including one image forming apparatus 60 has been described, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and two or more image forming apparatuses may be used. Further, although the case where the information processing apparatus 20 includes a file registration unit 22 and a feedback posting unit has been described, it may be configured as a single apparatus.

[0073] Also, in the above-described embodiments, the case where a print file is applied as a file has been described. However, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and content files such as audio files and video files that can be viewed by the user may be used.

[0074] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments, as an example of information regarding the use of a print file, the case where a posting for recording feedback on the print file is applied has been described. However, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the information regarding the use of a print file may include information indicating the reaction of the user. For example, it is possible to apply information that can quantitatively represent the user's reaction to information such as a description in a text for feedback such as the above-described posting. An example of such information that can quantitatively represent the user's reaction includes an evaluation value indicating the reaction of the user given by the user to the print file.

[0075] Specifically, as an evaluation value indicating the reaction of the user, a physical quantity for evaluation for quantitatively expressing the reaction of the user to the print file can be applied. An example of the physical quantity for evaluation includes the value of an instruction index such as "like" indicating a favorable reaction of the user. By assigning a value of an instruction index such as "like" to the print file, the registered user can quantitatively confirm the reaction of the user.

[0076] In addition, as other examples of the physical quantity for evaluation, values of action indicators such as "gift" and "tipping" indicating that at least a part of the ownership information (for example, information corresponding to points or money available on the network) owned by the user is provided are applicable. By assigning values of action indicators such as "gift" and "tipping" to the printed file, the registered user can quantitatively confirm the reaction of the user. It is possible to set the value of the action indicator to increase as the magnitude of the reaction of the user of the printed file increases. By doing so, the registered user can confirm the magnitude of the reaction of the user of the printed file as feedback. The process of giving an instruction indicator, an action indicator, etc. may be processed in cooperation with an external independent external system. When processing in cooperation with an external system, the external system may execute a process of invalidating feedback for a printed file to which a feedback ID is not associated.

[0077] [First Modification Example] The first modification example will be described. In the above-described embodiment, an example of the file registration unit 22 that generates a key (file identification key) as the first identification information for uniquely identifying the printed file has been described. The technology of the present disclosure does not limit the form of the information indicating the file identification key. For example, the file identification key may be represented by a two-dimensional code.

[0078] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the file registration unit 22A according to the first modification example. Note that since the file registration unit 22A shown in FIG. 11 has the same configuration as the file registration unit 22 shown in FIG. 6, the same reference numerals are given to the same parts and detailed description is omitted, and different parts will be described.

[0079] In the file registration unit 22A according to the first modification example, a two-dimensional code generation unit 229 is connected to the I / O 225. The two-dimensional code generation unit 229 is a functional unit that generates a two-dimensional code based on a plurality of pieces of information including other information in addition to the above-described file identification key.

[0080] The first modification example is configured such that the file identification key can be replaced with a two-dimensional code by the two-dimensional code generation unit 229, and other information can be embedded. As an example of other information, by embedding print settings, designation of applicable services of the SNS 40 to be posted, designation of feedback formats, thumbnail URLs, etc., the labor of input and search in each process can be saved.

[0081] By enabling (embeddable) the designation of information indicating print settings as other information, it becomes possible for a registered user to specify print settings in advance, and it becomes possible to reduce the processing load such as manual work when allowing the user at the time of printing to select print settings. Also, it becomes possible for the registered user to specify the print settings desired to be set.

[0082] Also, by enabling the designation of applicable services of the SNS 40 as other information, it becomes possible for a registered user to specify in advance the destination to which the SNS 40 to be posted is applied, and the feedback posting unit 24 can return feedback to the designated SNS 40. Also, it becomes possible to provide the form of posting information (for example, information indicating a feedback posting screen), which is the format (input format) enabling the posting of feedback information that is the information indicating the above-described feedback posting request, in information corresponding to the service of the designated SNS.

[0083] Furthermore, by enabling the designation of a feedback format for a registered user as other information, if the feedback format is designated in advance by the registered user, it becomes possible to specify the tendency of feedback so as to correspond to a predetermined feedback desired by the registered user (for example, wanting many "likes" on the SNS 40). Also, for the user, it becomes less likely to be confused about how to respond by the response according to the feedback desired by the registered user.

[0084] [Second Modification Example] The second modification example will be described. The second modification example replaces the feedback ID with a two-dimensional code.

[0085] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the feedback posting unit 24A according to the second modification. Note that since the feedback posting unit 24A shown in FIG. 12 has the same configuration as the feedback posting unit 24 shown in FIG. 7, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof is omitted, and different parts will be described.

[0086] In the feedback posting unit 24A according to the second modification, a two-dimensional code generation unit 249 is connected to the I / O 245. The two-dimensional code generation unit 249 is a functional unit that generates a two-dimensional code based on a plurality of pieces of information including other information in addition to the above-described feedback ID.

[0087] As an example of other information, position information such as a URL for accessing the feedback posting unit 24 is applied. By embedding position information such as a URL, it becomes possible to suppress operations such as a user taking notes when printing.

[0088] [Other Embodiments] As described above, the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment has been illustrated and described. The embodiment may be in the form of a program for causing a computer to execute the functions of each part included in the information processing apparatus. The embodiment may be in the form of a computer-readable storage medium storing this program.

[0089] In addition, the configuration of the information processing apparatus described in the above embodiment is an example, and may be changed according to the situation without departing from the gist.

[0090] Also, the flow of the processing of the program described in the above embodiment is an example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be changed without departing from the gist.

[0091] In the above-described embodiment, the case where the processing according to the embodiment is realized by software configuration using a computer by executing a program has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The embodiment may be realized by, for example, a hardware configuration or a combination of a hardware configuration and a software configuration.

Explanation of Signs

[0092] 10 Information processing system 20 Information processing apparatus 22 File registration unit 22D Database 22P File processing program 24 Feedback posting unit 24P Feedback processing program 30 Registration-side terminal 40 Communication service 50 Usage-side terminal 60 Image forming apparatus 229 Two-dimensional code generation unit 249 Two-dimensional code generation unit

Claims

1. Comprising a processor, The processor is, For a file registered in the storage unit by a registered user, and for which first identification information for identifying the file is registered in association therewith, when performing control to output from the storage unit a file specified by the first identification information and indicated as being to be used in response to a request from a using user, When the using user who has used the requested file stores information regarding the use of the requested file, which is to be stored in the requested file, in the storage unit, issue second identification information to the using user in response to the request from the using user, the second identification information being used when storing the information; When receiving the same identification information as the issued second identification information from the using user, perform control to receive information regarding the use of the requested file from the using user and store the first identification information and the second identification information in association with each other in the storage unit An information processing apparatus, characterized by the above.

2. The processor is, Perform control to output the second identification information after the output of the file. The information processing apparatus according to Claim 1.

3. The information regarding the use of the requested file is evaluation information indicating an evaluation set by the using user who has used the requested file The information processing apparatus according to Claim 2.

4. The processor is, Perform control on a print file among the files registered in the storage unit. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.

5. The processor is, As output of the file, perform control to form an image of the file and control to form an image indicating the second identification information in an image forming apparatus. The information processing apparatus according to Claim 4.

6. The processor is, When receiving a plurality of the second identification information, perform control to invalidate reception of information regarding the use of the requested file for the second and subsequent times. The information processing apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 5.

7. An information processing program, On a processor, For a file registered in the storage unit by a registered user, and for which first identification information for identifying the file is registered in association therewith, when performing control to output from the storage unit, in response to a request from a using user, a file specified by the first identification information and indicating that it is to be used, issue, in response to the request from the using user, second identification information to be used when the using user who has used the requested file stores, in the storage unit, information regarding the use of the requested file that is stored for the requested file; when receiving the same identification information as the issued second identification information from the using user, perform control to receive information regarding the use of the requested file from the using user and store the first identification information and the second identification information in association with each other in the storage unit An information processing program that causes this to be processed.

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