Information Management System

Abstract

To propose an information management system capable of securing the consistency of an information layout.SOLUTION: An information management system 1 includes a first server 11 and a second server 12. The first server 11 has a first control unit 111, a storage unit, and a transmission unit 113. The first control unit 111 creates an information layout. The storage unit stores an information layout group including information layouts of multiple versions. The transmission unit 113 collectively transmits the information layout group and version numbers V associated with the information layouts included in the information layout group, to the second server 12. The second server 12 provides the information layout to a user who uses the information layout created in the first server 11. The second server 12 has a receiving unit 123. The receiving unit 123 collectively receives, from the first server 11, the information layout group and the version numbers V associated with the information layouts included in the information layout group.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] It relates to an information management system.

Background Art

[0002] Systems that disclose multiple versions of electronic data to users are known. Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-216001) discloses an electronic data sharing system that can present appropriate versions of electronic data for each user.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] In the electronic data sharing system of Patent Document 1, the electronic data may not be consistent between the server that creates the electronic data and the server that provides the electronic data to the user.

[0004] The present disclosure proposes an information management system that can ensure the consistency of information layouts.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The information management system of the first aspect includes a first server and a second server. The first server has a first control unit, a storage unit, and a transmission unit. The first control unit creates an information layout. The storage unit stores an information layout group including a plurality of versions of the information layout. The transmission unit transmits the information layout group and the version numbers associated with each information layout included in the information layout group to the second server in a batch. The second server provides the information layout to a user who uses the information layout created by the first server. The second server has a reception unit. The reception unit receives the information layout group and the version numbers associated with each information layout included in the information layout group from the first server in a batch.

[0006] This information management system collectively transmits and receives an information layout group and the version numbers associated with each information layout included in the information layout group. Therefore, this information management system can ensure the consistency of information layouts in the first server that creates the information layout and the second server that provides the information layout to the user.

[0007] The information management system from the second perspective is the information management system from the first perspective, and the information constituting the information layout includes at least one or more of information indicating the type of component arranged in the information layout, information indicating the arrangement position of the component, information indicating the size of the component, information indicating the color of the component, information indicating the operation settings of the component, information indicating the events of the component, and information indicating the access authority to the information layout.

[0008] Therefore, this information management system can ensure the consistency of information indicating the type of component arranged in the information layout, information indicating the arrangement position of the component, information indicating the size of the component, information indicating the color of the component, information indicating the operation settings of the component, information indicating the events of the component, and information indicating the access authority to the information layout.

[0009] The information management system from the third perspective is the information management system from the first or second perspective, and the transmission unit collectively transmits the information layout group, the version numbers associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, and the unique identification information indicating the information layout group to the second server. Also, in the information management system from the third perspective, the reception unit collectively receives the information layout group, the version numbers associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, and the unique identification information indicating the information layout group from the first server.

[0010] This information management system collectively transmits and collectively receives not only an information layout group but also unique identification information indicating the information layout group, in addition to the version numbers associated with each information layout included in the information layout group. Therefore, this information management system can better ensure the consistency of the information layout based on the unique identification information indicating the information layout group.

[0011] The information management system from the fourth perspective is the information management system from the third perspective, and the second server further has a second control unit. When there are multiple information layouts with the same unique identification information and the same version number received by the receiving unit, the second control unit cross-checks the information constituting the multiple information layouts to determine whether the information constituting the multiple information layouts is the same.

[0012] This information management system determines whether the information constituting multiple information layouts is the same when there are multiple information layouts with the same unique identification information and the same version number. Therefore, this information management system can better ensure the consistency of the information layout based on the determination result of whether the information constituting the multiple information layouts is the same.

[0013] The information management system from the fifth perspective is the information management system from the fourth perspective, and when the second control unit determines that the information constituting the multiple information layouts is not the same, it does not update the information layout.

[0014] This information management system does not update the information layout when it determines that the information constituting multiple information layouts with the same unique identification information and the same version number is not the same. Therefore, this information management system can prevent inconsistencies caused by updating the information layout when the information constituting the multiple information layouts is not the same.

[0015] The information management system from the sixth perspective is the information management system from the fourth or fifth perspective. When the second control unit determines whether the information constituting a plurality of information layouts is the same, the second control unit notifies at least one of the following to the outside: whether the information constituting the plurality of information layouts is the same, the version number associated with the information layout determined to be not the same when it is determined that the information constituting the plurality of information layouts is not the same, and the information constituting the information layout determined to be not the same when it is determined that the information constituting the plurality of information layouts is not the same.

[0016] This information management system notifies the outside of whether the information constituting a plurality of information layouts is the same, the version number associated with the information layout determined to be not the same, and the information constituting the information layout determined to be not the same. This information management system performs notification related to inconsistency to the outside and makes the outside recognize the inconsistency. Therefore, this information management system can better ensure the consistency of the information layout.

[0017] The information management system from the seventh perspective is the information management system from any one of the first to sixth perspectives. The first control unit receives information indicating the release of an information layout. Further, in the information management system from the seventh perspective, when the first control unit receives information indicating release, the transmission unit transmits the information layout group and the version numbers associated with the respective information layouts included in the information layout group to the second server in a batch.

[0018] When this information management system receives information indicating release, it transmits the information layout group and the version numbers associated with the respective information layouts included in the information layout group to the second server in a batch. Therefore, this information management system can ensure the consistency of the released information layout.

[0019] The information management system from the eighth perspective is an information management system from any one of the first to seventh perspectives, and the storage unit further stores related information indicating one or more information layout groups related to the information layout groups. Also, in the information management system from the eighth perspective, the transmission unit, based on the related information, collectively transmits to the second server the information layout group, the version numbers associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, and one or more information layout groups related to the information layout group. Furthermore, in the information management system from the eighth perspective, the reception unit collectively receives from the first server the information layout group, the version numbers associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, and one or more information layout groups related to the information layout group.

[0020] In addition to the information layout group and the version numbers associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, this information management system also collectively transmits and collectively receives one or more information layout groups related to the information layout group. Therefore, this information management system can ensure the consistency of the information layout groups related to the information layout group.

[0021] The information management system from the ninth perspective is an information management system from any one of the first to eighth perspectives, and further includes a setting unit. The setting unit sets so that at least either the information constituting each information layout included in the information layout group transmitted by the transmission unit or the version number associated with each information layout included in the information layout group transmitted by the transmission unit is not changed.

[0022] Therefore, this information management system can prevent inconsistencies caused by changes in the information constituting each information layout included in the information layout group transmitted by the transmission unit and the version numbers associated with each information layout included in the information layout group transmitted by the transmission unit.

[0023] The information management system from the 10th perspective is an information management system from any of the 1st to 9th perspectives, and the second server further has a backup unit. When the receiving unit receives the information layout group, the backup unit transmits the information layout group to the outside.

[0024] This information management system transmits the received information layout group to the outside. Therefore, this information management system can back up the received information layout group and prevent inconsistencies due to system failures and the like.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025]

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Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0026] <First Embodiment> (1) Overall Configuration The information management system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the information management system 1. The information management system 1 is a system that creates a form layout RL, manages the form layout RL, and provides the form layout RL. The information management system 1 includes a first server 11 and a second server 12. Note that at least one of the first server 11 and the second server 12 may be plural.

[0027] The form layout RL is a format in which information can be input by the user and information can be displayed to the user for each display unit to the user. The form layout RL is an example of an information layout. The information layout is one in which various information is laid out. The form R is one in which information is input by the user into the form layout RL.

[0028] The form layout RL and the form R are used in the field of information management. The form layout RL and the form R may also be used in other fields such as the accounting field.

[0029] (1-1) First Server The first server 11 is a server that creates a form layout RL and transmits the created form layout RL to the second server 12. The first server 11 is electrically connected to the second server 12 and the first display device 21 by wire or wirelessly.

[0030] The first display device 21 is a device that displays the form layout RL. The first display device 21 does not belong to the information management system 1. Therefore, the first display device 21 is an example of an external device in the information management system 1. The first server 11 displays the form layout RL to the creator C via the first display device 21. The creator C is a person who creates the form layout RL.

[0031] (1-2) Second Server The second server 12 is a server that receives the created form layout RL and provides the created form layout RL. The second server 12 is electrically connected to the first server 11, the second display device 22, and a user's display device (not shown) via wire or wirelessly.

[0032] The second display device 22 is a device that displays the form layout RL. The second display device 22 does not belong to the information management system 1. Therefore, the second display device 22 is an example of an external device in the information management system 1. The second server 12 displays the form layout RL for the administrator O via the second display device 22. The administrator O is a person who manages the form layout RL.

[0033] The user's display device is a device that displays the form layout RL. The user is a person who uses the form layout RL.

[0034] (2) Detailed configuration The detailed configuration of the information management system 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a control block diagram of the information management system 1.

[0035] (2-1) First server The first server 11 includes a first control unit 111, a first storage unit 112, and a transmission unit 113. The first storage unit 112 is an example of a storage unit.

[0036] The first server 11 is realized by a computer. The first server 11 includes a control arithmetic unit (first control unit 111) and a storage device (first storage unit 112). As the control arithmetic unit, a processor such as a CPU or a GPU can be used. The control arithmetic unit reads a program stored in the storage device and performs predetermined image processing and arithmetic processing according to this program. Further, the control arithmetic unit can write the arithmetic result to the storage device or read the information stored in the storage device according to the program. FIG. 2 shows various function blocks realized by the control arithmetic unit. The storage device can be used as a database.

[0037] (2-1-1) First control unit The first control unit 111 includes a creation unit 1111, a first recording unit 1112, a first notification unit 1113, a reception unit 1114, and a setting unit 1115.

[0038] (2-1-1-1) Creation unit The creation unit 1111 creates a form layout RL based on information indicating the creation of the form layout RL received by the reception unit 1114 described later. Examples of "creating a form layout RL" include newly creating a form layout RL and updating an already created form layout RL. Examples of "updating a form layout RL" include changing a part of the information constituting the form layout RL included in the form layout RL.

[0039] The form layout RL is composed of one or more components CP. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the form layout RL.

[0040] The component CP is at least one of those that display information to the user and those that allow the user to input information. The component CP is arranged in the form layout RL.

[0041] The information constituting the form layout RL includes at least two of information indicating the type of the component CP, information indicating the arrangement position of the component CP, information indicating the size of the component CP, information indicating the color of the component CP, information indicating the operation setting of the component CP, information indicating the event of the component CP, and information indicating the access authority to the form layout RL. Further, the information constituting the form layout RL may include at least one of information indicating the text described in the component CP and information indicating the figure described in the component CP.

[0042] The type of component CP refers to the way the user inputs information. Examples of the type of component CP include text input, combo box, list box, checkbox, spin box, scroll bar, toggle button, button, etc. For example, when the type of component CP is text input, the user inputs information by the way of inputting text. For example, when the type of component CP is a combo box, the user inputs information by the way of selecting from a list. For example, when the type of component CP is a button, the user inputs information by the way of clicking the button.

[0043] The operation setting of component CP is the setting of the operation of component CP according to the user's input. For example, when the type of component CP is a button, the operation setting of component CP is the setting of the operation of component CP when the user clicks the button.

[0044] The event of component CP is the processing of component CP according to the user's input. For example, when the event of component CP is a calculation formula, component CP performs calculations according to the information input by the user.

[0045] Examples of information indicating the access right to the form layout RL include identification information indicating the person who can display the form layout RL, identification information indicating the device that can display the form layout RL, identification information indicating the person who can use the form layout RL, identification information indicating the device that can use the form layout RL, and so on.

[0046] The form layout RL1 in FIG. 3 will be described. A plurality of components CP including component CP1, component CP2, and component CP3 are arranged in the form layout RL1.

[0047] The text described in component CP1 is the "DR Management Table". Therefore, the information constituting the form layout RL1 includes information indicating the text ("DR Management Table") described in component CP1.

[0048] The color of component CP2 is black. Therefore, the information constituting the form layout RL1 includes information indicating the color (black) of component CP2.

[0049] The type of component CP3 is a combo box. Therefore, the information constituting the form layout RL1 includes information indicating the type (combo box) of component CP3.

[0050] The creation unit 1111 associates the version number V with the created form layout RL based on the information indicating the association of the version number V received by the reception unit 1114. The creation unit 1111 may associate the version number V with the form layout RL based on a preset association rule for the version number V.

[0051] The version number V is identification information indicating the degree of newness due to the update of the form layout RL. Examples of the version number V include numbers, characters, and combinations of numbers and characters.

[0052] (2-1-1-2) First recording unit Based on the information indicating the record received by the reception unit 1114 described later, the first recording unit 1112 associates the information constituting the form layout RL, the version number V associated with the form layout RL, and the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG, and records them in the first storage unit 112. Hereinafter, the "unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG" may be abbreviated and simply referred to as the "unique identification information ID".

[0053] The form layout group RG is a group of a plurality of form layouts RL associated with different version numbers V. The form layout group RG includes form layouts RL of multiple versions. Each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG is at least one of a form layout RL that updates another form layout RL included in the form layout group RG and a form layout RL used for updating another form layout RL included in the form layout group RG. The form layout group RG is an example of an information layout group.

[0054] For example, assume that "1" is associated as the version number V of the form layout RL1. Also assume that "001" is assigned as the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 including the form layout RL1. The first recording unit 1112 associates the information constituting the form layout RL1, the version number V which is "1", and the unique identification information ID which is "001", and records them in the first storage unit 112.

[0055] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the form layout RL. The form layout RL2 is a form layout RL created by the creator C by updating the form layout RL1. In addition to the component CP arranged in the form layout RL1, a component CP4 is arranged in the form layout RL2.

[0056] Since the form layout RL1 and the form layout RL2 have different degrees of newness due to the update, they are associated with different version numbers V. For example, the version number V of the form layout RL2 is different from the version number "1" of the form layout RL1 and is "2". The form layout RL2 is an update of the form layout RL1. Therefore, the form layout RL2 is included in the same form layout group RG1 as the form layout RL1. The first recording unit 1112 associates the information constituting the form layout RL2, the version number V which is "2", and the unique identification information ID which is "001", and records them in the first storage unit 112.

[0057] For example, assume that the first recording unit 1112 records by associating the information constituting the form layout RL1, the version number V which is "1", and the unique identification information which is "001". Also assume that the first recording unit 1112 records by associating the information constituting the form layout RL2, the version number V which is "2", and the unique identification information which is "001". The first recording unit 1112 has thus recorded by associating the form layout group RG1, the version numbers V of "1" and "2", and the unique identification information of "001".

[0058] (2-1-1-3) First notification unit The first notification unit 1113 causes the form layout RL to be displayed on the first display device 21. "Causing to be displayed on the first display device 21" is an example of external notification. The creator C can work by looking at the form layout RL based on the display on the first display device 21.

[0059] (2-1-1-4) Reception unit The reception unit 1114 receives information indicating creation of the form layout RL, information indicating association with the version number V, information indicating recording of the form layout RL, information indicating release of the form layout RL, etc. that are input by the creator C using an input device (not shown). Examples of the input device include a keyboard, a mouse, a tracing table, etc. The input device is electrically connected to the first server 11 by wire or wirelessly.

[0060] (2-1-1-5) Setting unit The setting unit 1115 sets so that the information constituting each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG transmitted by the transmission unit 113 described later and the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG transmitted by the transmission unit 113 are not changed. The setting unit 1115 performs the setting before the transmission unit 113 transmits when the reception unit 1114 receives information indicating release of the form layout RL.

[0061] Note that the setting unit 1115 may be set so that at least any one of the information constituting each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG transmitted by the transmission unit 113 and the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG transmitted by the transmission unit 113 is not changed.

[0062] (2-1-2) First storage unit The first storage unit 112 stores, in association with each other, the form layout group RG, the version number V, and the unique identification number ID based on the recording of the first recording unit 1112. Examples of the first storage unit 112 include storage devices such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0063] For example, assume that the first storage unit 112 stores in association with each other the information constituting the form layout RL1, the version number V which is "1", and the unique identification information which is "001". Also, assume that the first storage unit 112 stores in association with each other the information constituting the form layout RL2, the version number V which is "2", and the unique identification information which is "001". It can be said that the first storage unit 112 stores in association with each other the form layout group RG1, the version numbers V of "1" and "2", and the unique identification information of "001".

[0064] (2-1-3) Transmission unit When the reception unit 1114 receives information indicating the release of the form layout RL, the transmission unit 113 transmits, in a batch, the form layout group RG, the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG, and the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG to the second server 12. Examples of "when the reception unit 1114 receives information indicating the release of the form layout RL and transmits it to the second server 12 in a batch" include transmitting only when the reception unit 1114 receives information indicating the release of the form layout RL, and transmitting also when the reception unit 1114 receives information indicating the release of the form layout RL in addition to other cases.

[0065] Examples of the transmission process by the transmission unit 113 include real-time processing and badge processing. When the transmission unit 113 performs real-time transmission processing, the transmission unit 113 transmits to the second server 12 within a predetermined time from the time when the reception unit 1114 receives information indicating the release of the form layout RL. When the transmission unit 113 performs badge processing transmission, the transmission unit 113 transmits to the second server 12 at a preset time.

[0066] Note that the transmission unit 113 does not necessarily need to transmit the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG.

[0067] (2-2) Second Server The second server 12 includes a second control unit 121, a second storage unit 122, a reception unit 123, and a provision unit 124.

[0068] The second server 12 is realized by a computer. The second server 12 includes a control arithmetic unit (second control unit 121) and a storage device (second storage unit 122).

[0069] (2-2-1) Second Control Unit The second control unit 121 includes a determination unit 1211, a second recording unit 1212, and a second notification unit 1213.

[0070] (2-2-1-1) Determination Unit When there are a plurality of form layouts RL with the same unique identification information ID and the same version number V received by the reception unit 123 described later, the determination unit 1211 compares the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL with each other and determines whether the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is the same.

[0071] Hereinafter, when there are a plurality of form layouts RL with the same unique identification information ID and the same version number V, the situation where the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is the same is referred to as "consistent". Hereinafter, when there are a plurality of form layouts RL with the same unique identification information ID and the same version number V, the situation where the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is not the same is referred to as "inconsistent". The determination unit 1211 will determine whether it is consistent or inconsistent.

[0072] (2-2-1-2) Second recording unit The second recording unit 1212 associates the form layout group RG received by the receiving unit 123, the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG, and the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG, and records them in the second storage unit 122. Examples of "recording in the second storage unit 122" include newly writing to the second storage unit 122 and overwriting and updating an existing file stored in the second storage unit 122.

[0073] Also, when the determination unit 1211 determines that the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is not the same, the second recording unit 1212 does not update the form layout RL. When the determination unit 1211 determines that it is inconsistent, the second recording unit 1212 will not update the form layout RL.

[0074] (2-2-1-3) Second notification unit The second notification unit 1213 causes the form layout RL to be displayed on the second display device 22. "Causing to be displayed on the second display device 22" is an example of external notification. The administrator O can view and manage the form layout RL based on the display of the second display device 22.

[0075] Further, when the determination unit 1211 determines whether the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is the same, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display at least any one of whether the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is the same, the version number V associated with the form layout RL determined to be not the same when the determination unit 1211 determines that the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is not the same, and the information constituting the form layout RL determined to be not the same when the determination unit 1211 determines that the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is not the same. When the determination unit 1211 determines whether it is consistent or inconsistent, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display at least any one of whether it is consistent or inconsistent, the version number V associated with the form layout RL determined to be inconsistent when the determination unit 1211 determines that it is inconsistent, and the information constituting the form layout RL determined to be inconsistent when the determination unit 1211 determines that it is inconsistent.

[0076] Examples of "causing the second display device 22 to display the information constituting the form layout RL determined to be inconsistent" include causing the second display device 22 to display all the information constituting the form layout RL determined to be inconsistent, and displaying only the information determined to be inconsistent among the information constituting the form layout RL.

[0077] (2-2-2) Second storage unit The second storage unit 122 stores in association the form layout group RG, the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG, and the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG, based on the record of the second recording unit 1212. Examples of the second storage unit 122 include storage devices such as HDDs and SSDs.

[0078] (2-2-3) Receiving unit The receiving unit 123 receives, in a batch, from the first server 11, a form layout group RG, a version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG, and unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG.

[0079] (2-2-4) Providing unit The providing unit 124 provides the form layout RL to the user. The second server 12 serves as a server that provides the form layout RL to the user. Examples of "providing" include causing the form layout RL to be displayed on the user's display device and transmitting the form layout RL to the user's storage device (not shown).

[0080] By providing the form layout RL by the providing unit 124, the user can use the form layout RL. Examples of "using the form layout RL" include viewing the information constituting the form layout RL displayed on the user's display device and inputting information into the form layout RL using the user's input device (not shown). Examples of "inputting information into the form layout RL" include writing text in the form layout RL, drawing a figure in the form layout RL, selecting from the list of combo boxes in the form layout RL, and clicking a button in the form layout RL.

[0081] The user can view the form layout RL and input information into the form layout RL by the providing unit 124. The user can create a form R using the form layout RL.

[0082] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a form R1 which is an example of the form R. The form R1 is a form R created by the user using the form layout RL1. The information I1 is the text of "Project A" described by the user in the form layout RL1. The information I2, information I3, and information I4 are also texts described by the user in the form layout RL1. The information I5 is the text of "2022 / 10 / 21" selected by the user from the list of combo boxes and described.

[0083] (3) Operation The operation of the information management system 1 will be described. Before the operation, the operation will be described by dividing it into a first case where the first server 11 and the second server 12 are consistent, and a second case where the first server 11 and the second server 12 are inconsistent before the operation.

[0084] (3-1) First Case The premise of the operation in the first case will be described. The first server 11 and the second server 12 store the form layout group RG1. The unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 of the first server 11 and the second server 12 is "001". The form layout group RG1 of the first server 11 and the second server 12 includes a form layout RL1 (Figure 3) associated with the version number V of "1" and a form layout RL2 (Figure 4) associated with the version number V of "2".

[0085] In the first server 11 and the second server 12, the form layout RL with the unique identification information ID of "001" and the version number V of "1" is the form layout RL1. In the first server 11 and the second server 12, the form layout RL with the unique identification information ID of "001" and the version number V of "2" is the form layout RL2. Therefore, the first server 11 and the second server 12 are consistent.

[0086] (3-1-1) Operation of the First Server 11 Based on the above premise, the operation of the first server 11 when the creator C updates the form layout RL2 to create a form layout RL3 and releases the form layout RL3 will be described. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the first server 11.

[0087] Author C opens the form layout RL2 stored in the first storage unit 112. The first notification unit 1113 causes the form layout RL2 stored in the first storage unit 112 to be displayed on the first display device 21 (step S1). The form layout RL2 is displayed for author C.

[0088] While looking at the form layout RL2, author C inputs information indicating creation using the input device. The reception unit 1114 receives, via the input device, information indicating that author C has created something (step S2).

[0089] The creation unit 1111 creates a form layout RL3 based on the information indicating creation received by the reception unit 1114 (step S3). FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the form layout RL3 which is an example of the form layout RL. The form layout RL3 includes components CP1 to CP4 and, in addition, component CP5. The creation unit 1111 performed an update to add component CP5 to the form layout RL2 and created the form layout RL3.

[0090] Author C inputs, using the input device, information indicating the association with version number V. The reception unit 1114 receives, via the input device, information indicating the association with version number V by author C (step S4).

[0091] The creation unit 1111 associates version number V with the form layout RL3 based on the information indicating the association with version number V received by the reception unit 1114 (step S5).

[0092] Author C inputs, using the input device, information indicating release. The reception unit 1114 receives, via the input device, information indicating the release by author C (step S6).

[0093] The setting unit 1115 sets so that the information constituting each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG1 and the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG1 are not changed (step S7). Specifically, the setting unit 1115 sets so that the information constituting the form layout RL1, the information constituting the form layout RL2, the information constituting the form layout RL3, the "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, the "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2, and the version number V associated with the form layout RL3 are not changed.

[0094] The transmission unit 113 collectively transmits the form layout group RG1, the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG1, and the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 to the second server 12 (step S8). Specifically, the transmission unit 113 collectively transmits the information constituting the form layout RL1, the information constituting the form layout RL2, the information constituting the form layout RL3, the "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, the "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2, the version number V associated with the form layout RL3, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 to the second server 12.

[0095] In addition, in any one of steps S6 to S8, when the creator C inputs information indicating a record by the input device, the reception unit 1114 receives, by the input device, the information indicating the record of the creator C. The first recording unit 1112 associates the information constituting the form layout RL3, the version number V associated with the form layout RL3, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 based on the information indicating the record received by the reception unit 1114 and records them in the first storage unit 112. The first storage unit 112 stores, by the recording of the first recording unit 1112, the information constituting the form layout RL3, the version number V associated with the form layout RL3, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 in association with each other.

[0096] (3-1-2) Operation of the Second Server 12 Under the above premise, the operation of the second server 12 when receiving the form layout group RG1 including the form layout RL3 from the first server 11 will be described. In step S4, the description will be divided into the case where "3" of the version number V is received and the case where "2" of the version number V is received.

[0097] (3-1-2-1) Case where "3" of the version number is received In step S4, the operation of the second server 12 when "3" of the version number V is received will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the second server 12.

[0098] The receiving unit 123 receives, in a batch, from the first server 11, the form layout group RG1, the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG1, and the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 (step S21). Specifically, the receiving unit 123 receives, in a batch, from the first server 11, the information constituting the form layout RL1, the information constituting the form layout RL2, the information constituting the form layout RL3, "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2, "3" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL3, and "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1.

[0099] As described above, before the reception in step S21, the second storage unit 122 has stored, in association with each other, the information constituting the form layout RL1, the information constituting the form layout RL2, "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2, and "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1.

[0100] Therefore, there exists a form layout RL1 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "1", which was stored in the second storage unit 122 before the reception in step S21. There also exists a form layout RL1 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "1", which was received in step S21. Therefore, there exist multiple (two) form layouts RL1 with the same unique identification information ID of "001" and the same version number V of "1".

[0101] Also, there exists a form layout RL2 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "2", which was stored in the second storage unit 122 before the reception in step S21. There also exists a form layout RL2 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "2", which was received in step S21. Therefore, there exist multiple (two) form layouts RL2 with the same unique identification information ID of "001" and the same version number V of "2".

[0102] Also, the form layout RL3 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "3" did not exist before the reception in step S21. The form layout RL3 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "3", which was received in step S21, exists. Therefore, there exists one form layout RL3 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "3".

[0103] Since there are a plurality of form layouts RL with the same unique identification information ID and the same version number V, the determination unit 1211 compares the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL with each other to determine whether the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is the same (step S22). Specifically, since there are a plurality of form layouts RL1 with the same unique identification information ID of "001" and the same version number V of "1", the determination unit 1211 determines whether the two form layouts RL1 are consistent or inconsistent. Also, since there are a plurality of form layouts RL2 with the same unique identification information ID of "001" and the same version number V of "2", the determination unit 1211 determines whether the two form layouts RL2 are consistent or inconsistent. Since there is only one form layout RL3 with the unique identification information ID of "001" and the version number V of "3", the determination unit 1211 does not determine whether it is consistent or inconsistent.

[0104] The two form layouts RL1 with the unique identification information ID of "001" and the version number V of "1" have the same information constituting the form layout RL. Therefore, the determination unit 1211 determines that the two form layouts RL1 are consistent. The two form layouts RL2 with the unique identification information ID of "001" and the version number V of "2" have the same information constituting the form layout RL. Therefore, the determination unit 1211 determines that the two form layouts RL2 are consistent.

[0105] The second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display whether it is consistent or inconsistent when the determination unit 1211 determines whether it is consistent or inconsistent (step S23). Specifically, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display that the form layout RL1 is consistent when it is determined whether the form layout RL1 is consistent or inconsistent. Also, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display that the form layout RL2 is consistent when it is determined whether the form layout RL2 is consistent or inconsistent. The administrator O can grasp that the form layouts RL1 and RL2 are consistent.

[0106] The second recording unit 1212 associates the form layout group RG1, the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG1, and the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1, and records them in the second storage unit 122 (step S24). Specifically, the second recording unit 1212 associates the information constituting the form layout RL1, the "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1, and overwrites and updates the information constituting the form layout RL1 that the second storage unit 122 already stores, the "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1. Also, the second recording unit 1212 associates the information constituting the form layout RL2, the "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1, and overwrites and updates the information constituting the form layout RL2 that the second storage unit 122 already stores, the "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1. Also, the second recording unit 1212 associates the information constituting the form layout RL3, the "3" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL3, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1, and newly writes them into the second storage unit 122.

[0107] The second storage unit 122 stores the form layout group RG1, the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG1, and the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 in association with each other (step S25).

[0108] Note that step S23 may be performed after step S25. In other words, after the second storage unit 122 stores the form layout group RG1 and the like, the second notification unit 1213 may perform notification.

[0109] Note that after step S25, the providing unit 124 may provide at least any one of the form layouts RL1, RL2, and RL3 to the user. The user can create the form R by using at least any one of the form layouts RL1, RL2, and RL3.

[0110] (3-1-2-2) When the "2" of the version number is received Next, in step S4, the operation of the second server 12 when the "2" of the version number V is received will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the second server 12.

[0111] Step S31 is the same as step S21.

[0112] As described above, before receiving in step S31, the second storage unit 122 associates and stores the information constituting the form layout RL1, the information constituting the form layout RL2, the "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, the "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2, and the unique identification information ID "001" indicating the form layout group RG1.

[0113] Therefore, there exists the form layout RL1 with the unique identification information ID "001" and the version number V "1" that the second storage unit 122 stored before receiving in step S21. There also exists the form layout RL1 with the unique identification information ID "001" and the version number V "1" received in step S21. Therefore, there exist a plurality (two) of form layouts RL1 with the same unique identification information ID "001" and the same version number V "1".

[0114] In addition, there exists a form layout RL2 with unique identification information ID "001" and version number V "2" that the second storage unit 122 has stored since before the reception in step S21. There also exists a form layout RL2 with unique identification information ID "001" and version number V "2" received in step S21. Furthermore, there exists a form layout RL3 with unique identification information ID "001" and version number V "2" received in step S21. Therefore, there exist a plurality (three) of form layouts RL2 and RL3 with the same unique identification information ID "001" and the same version number V "2".

[0115] Since there exist a plurality of form layouts RL with the same unique identification information ID and the same version number V, the determination unit 1211 compares the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL with each other to determine whether the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is the same (step S32). Specifically, since there exist a plurality of form layouts RL1 with unique identification information ID "001" and version number V "1", the determination unit 1211 determines whether the two form layouts RL1 are consistent or inconsistent. Also, since there exist a plurality of form layouts RL2 and a form layout RL3 with unique identification information ID "001" and version number V "2", the determination unit 1211 determines whether the two form layouts RL2 and the one form layout RL3 are consistent or inconsistent.

[0116] For the two form layouts RL1 with unique identification information ID "001" and version number V "1", the information constituting the form layout RL is the same. Therefore, the determination unit 1211 determines that the two form layouts RL1 are consistent.

[0117] On the other hand, for the two form layouts RL2 and the one form layout RL3 with unique identification information ID "001" and version number V "2", the information constituting the form layout RL is not the same. Therefore, the determination unit 1211 determines that the two form layouts RL2 and the one form layout RL3 are inconsistent.

[0118] The second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display whether it is consistent or inconsistent when the determination unit 1211 determines whether it is consistent or inconsistent (step S33). Specifically, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display that the form layout RL1 is consistent when it is determined whether the form layout RL1 is consistent or inconsistent. In addition, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display that the form layout RL2 and the form layout RL3 are inconsistent when it is determined whether the form layout RL2 and the form layout RL3 are consistent or inconsistent. The administrator O can grasp that the form layout RL1 is consistent and that the form layout RL2 and the form layout RL3 are inconsistent.

[0119] The second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display the version number V associated with the form layout RL determined to be inconsistent when the determination unit 1211 determines that it is inconsistent (step S34). Specifically, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display the "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2 and the form layout RL3 determined by the determination unit 1211 to be inconsistent. Therefore, the administrator O can grasp that an inconsistency related to the "2" of the version number V has occurred.

[0120] When the determination unit 1211 determines an inconsistency, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display information constituting the form layout RL determined to be inconsistent (step S35). Specifically, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display information constituting the form layout RL2 and information constituting the form layout RL3 determined to be inconsistent by the determination unit 1211. The form layout RL2 includes components CP1 to 4 and the like. On the other hand, the form layout RL3 includes components CP1 to 5 and the like. Therefore, the information constituting the form layout RL2 determined to be inconsistent and the information constituting the form layout RL3 are the component CP5. The second notification unit 1213 causes the component CP5 to be displayed on the second display device 22. The administrator O can grasp the difference between the components CP included in the form layout RL2 and the components CP included in the form layout RL3.

[0121] Since the determination unit 1211 has determined an inconsistency, the second recording unit 1212 does not update the form layout RL. Specifically, the second recording unit 1212 does not perform an update to overwrite the form layout group RG1 stored in the second storage unit 122 before the reception in step S31 with the form layout group RG1 and the like received in step S31. Note that the second recording unit 1212 may update the form layout RL1 determined to be consistent by the determination unit 1211, the "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, and the unique identification information "001" indicating the form layout group RG1.

[0122] Note that after step S35, the providing unit 124 may provide at least one of the form layout RL1 and the form layout RL2 to the user. The user can create the form R using at least one of the form layout RL1 and the form layout RL2.

[0123] (3-2) Second case Describe the prerequisites for the operation of the second case. The first server 11 stores a form layout group RG1. The unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 of the first server 11 is "001". The form layout group RG1 of the first server 11 includes a form layout RL1 (Figure 3) associated with a version number V of "1" and a form layout RL2 (Figure 4) associated with a version number V of "2".

[0124] The second server 12 stores a form layout group RG1. The unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 of the second server 12 is "001". The form layout group RG1 of the second server 12 includes a form layout RL1 (Figure 3) associated with a version number V of "1" and a form layout RL3 (Figure 7) associated with a version number V of "2".

[0125] In the first server 11 and the second server 12, the form layout RL with the unique identification information ID of "001" and the version number V of "1" is the form layout RL1. In the first server 11, the form layout RL with the unique identification information ID of "001" and the version number V of "2" is the form layout RL2. On the other hand, in the second server 12, the form layout RL with the unique identification information ID of "001" and the version number V of "2" is the form layout RL3. Therefore, the first server 11 and the second server 12 are inconsistent.

[0126] (3-2-1) Operation of the first server 11 Under the above prerequisites, describe the operation of the first server 11 when the creator C updates the form layout RL2 to create a form layout RL4 and releases the form layout RL4. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the first server 11.

[0127] Steps S41 and S42 are the same as steps S1 and S2, respectively.

[0128] The creation unit 1111 creates a form layout RL4 based on the information indicating the creation received by the reception unit 1114 (step S43). FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a form layout RL4 which is an example of the form layout RL. The form layout RL4 includes a component CP6 in addition to the components CP1 to CP4. The creation unit 1111 performed an update to add the component CP6 to the form layout RL2 and created the form layout RL4.

[0129] The creator C inputs, using an input device, information indicating the association of "3" with the version number V. The reception unit 1114 receives, using the input device, the information indicating the association of "3" with the version number V of the creator C (step S44).

[0130] The creation unit 1111 associates "3" of the version number V with the form layout RL4 based on the information indicating the association of "3" with the version number V received by the reception unit 1114 (step S45).

[0131] Step S46 is the same as step S6.

[0132] The setting unit 1115 sets so that the information constituting each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG1 and the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG1 are not changed (step S47). Specifically, the setting unit 1115 sets so that the information constituting the form layout RL1, the information constituting the form layout RL2, the information constituting the form layout RL4, "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2, and "3" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL4 are not changed.

[0133] The transmission unit 113 transmits the form layout group RG1, the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG1, and the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 to the second server 12 in a batch (step S48). Specifically, the transmission unit 113 transmits the information constituting the form layout RL1, the information constituting the form layout RL2, the information constituting the form layout RL4, the "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, the "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2, the "3" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL4, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 to the second server 12 in a batch.

[0134] In addition, in any of steps S46 to S48, when the creator C inputs information indicating a record using the input device, the reception unit 1114 receives the information indicating the record of the creator C from the input device. Based on the information indicating the record received by the reception unit 1114, the first recording unit 1112 associates the information constituting the form layout RL4, the "3" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL4, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1, and records them in the first storage unit 112. The first storage unit 112 stores the information constituting the form layout RL4, the "3" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL4, and the "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 in association with each other according to the recording of the first recording unit 1112.

[0135] (3-2-2) Operation of the second server 12 FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation of the second server 12.

[0136] The receiving unit 123 receives, in a batch, from the first server 11, a layout group RG1 of forms, a version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG1, and unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1 (step S51). Specifically, the receiving unit 123 receives, in a batch, from the first server 11, information constituting the form layout RL1, information constituting the form layout RL2, information constituting the form layout RL4, "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL2, "3" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL4, and "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1.

[0137] As described above, before the reception in step S51, the second storage unit 122 stores, in association with each other, information constituting the form layout RL1, information constituting the form layout RL2, "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, "2" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL3, and "001" of the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG1.

[0138] Therefore, there exists the form layout RL1 with "001" of the unique identification information ID and "1" of the version number V, which the second storage unit 122 had stored before the reception in step S51. There also exists the form layout RL1 with "001" of the unique identification information ID and "1" of the version number V, which was received in step S51. Thus, there exist a plurality (two) of form layouts RL1 with the same "001" of the unique identification information ID and the same "1" of the version number V.

[0139] In addition, there exists a form layout RL3 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "2" that the second storage unit 122 has stored since before the reception in step S51. There also exists a form layout RL2 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "2" received in step S51. Therefore, there exist a plurality (two) of form layouts RL2 and RL3 with the same unique identification information ID of "001" and the same version number V of "2".

[0140] On the other hand, a form layout RL4 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "3" did not exist before the reception in step S51. A form layout RL4 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "3" received in step S51 exists. Therefore, there exists one form layout RL4 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "3".

[0141] Since there exist a plurality of form layouts RL with the same unique identification information ID and the same version number V, the determination unit 1211 compares the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL with each other to determine whether the information constituting the plurality of form layouts RL is the same (step S52). Specifically, since there exist a plurality of form layouts RL1 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "1", the determination unit 1211 determines whether the two form layouts RL1 are consistent or inconsistent. Also, since there exist a plurality of form layouts RL2 and a form layout RL3 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "2", the determination unit 1211 determines whether one form layout RL2 and one form layout RL3 are consistent or inconsistent. Since there exists only one form layout RL4 with a unique identification information ID of "001" and a version number V of "3", the determination unit 1211 does not perform a determination of whether it is consistent or inconsistent.

[0142] The two form layouts RL1, one with the unique identification information ID being "001" and the version number V being "1", have the same information constituting the form layout RL. Therefore, the determination unit 1211 determines that the two form layouts RL1 are consistent.

[0143] On the other hand, one form layout RL2 and one form layout RL3, with the unique identification information ID being "001" and the version number V being "2", do not have the same information constituting the form layout RL. Therefore, the determination unit 1211 determines that one form layout RL2 and one form layout RL3 are inconsistent.

[0144] The second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display whether it is consistent or inconsistent when the determination unit 1211 determines whether it is consistent or inconsistent (step S53). Specifically, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display that the form layout RL1 is consistent when it is determined whether the form layout RL1 is consistent or inconsistent. Also, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display that the form layout RL2 and the form layout RL3 are inconsistent when it is determined whether the form layout RL2 and the form layout RL3 are consistent or inconsistent. The administrator O can grasp that the form layout RL1 is consistent and that the form layout RL2 and the form layout RL3 are inconsistent.

[0145] The second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display the version number V associated with the form layout RL determined to be inconsistent when the determination unit 1211 determines that it is inconsistent (step S54). Specifically, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display the version number V of "2" associated with the form layouts RL2 and RL3 determined by the determination unit 1211 to be inconsistent.

[0146] When the determination unit 1211 determines an inconsistency, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display information constituting the form layout RL determined to be inconsistent (step S55). Specifically, the second notification unit 1213 causes the second display device 22 to display information constituting the form layout RL2 and information constituting the form layout RL3 determined to be inconsistent by the determination unit 1211.

[0147] Since the determination unit 1211 has determined an inconsistency, the second recording unit 1212 does not update the form layout RL. Specifically, the second recording unit 1212 does not perform an update to overwrite the form layout group RG1 stored in the second storage unit 122 before the reception in step S31 with the form layout group RG1 received in step S31 or the like. Note that the second recording unit 1212 may update the form layout RL1 determined to be consistent by the determination unit 1211, the "1" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL1, and the unique identification information "001" indicating the form layout group RG1.

[0148] Note that the second recording unit 1212 may newly write the form layout RL4 not determined by the determination unit 1211, the "3" of the version number V associated with the form layout RL4, and the unique identification information "001" indicating the form layout group RG1 into the second storage unit 122.

[0149] Note that after step S55, the providing unit 124 may provide at least any one of the form layouts RL1, RL3, and RL4 to the user. The user can create the form R using at least any one of the form layouts RL1, RL2, and RL4.

[0150] (4) Features (4-1) The information management system 1 includes a first server 11 and a second server 12. The first server 11 has a first control unit 111, a storage unit, and a transmission unit 113. The first control unit 111 creates an information layout. The storage unit stores an information layout group including a plurality of versions of the information layout. The transmission unit 113 transmits the information layout group and the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group to the second server 12 in a batch. The second server 12 provides the information layout to a user who uses the information layout created by the first server 11. The second server 12 has a reception unit 123. The reception unit 123 receives the information layout group and the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group from the first server 11 in a batch.

[0151] In order to provide the information layout to the user, the first server 11 may update the information layout to create the information layout and transmit the information layout to the second server 12. Since the information layout is distinguished from other information layouts, it is necessary to associate it with a version number V different from the version number V associated with other information layouts.

[0152] However, due to reasons such as human omission in updating the first server 11 or the second server 12, or mechanical synchronization errors in the first server 11 or the second server 12, the version number V associated with the information layout of the first server 11 may be the same as the version number V associated with other information layouts that already exist in the second server 12. In other words, inconsistencies may occur between the first server 11 and the second server 12. Also, due to reasons such as the association of the version number V due to human error or the association of the version number V due to mechanical error, the version number V associated with the information layout of the first server 11 may be the same as the version number V associated with other information layouts that already exist in the first server 11. In other words, inconsistencies may occur in the first server 11.

[0153] When an inconsistency occurs, if only the information layout and the version number V associated with the information layout are sent to the second server 12, the administrator O cannot grasp at least either whether an inconsistency has occurred or with which version number V the inconsistency has occurred. Also, a user who uses the information layout provided by the second server 12 may use an incorrect information layout due to the inconsistency.

[0154] The information management system 1 collectively sends and receives an information layout group and the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group. The administrator O of the second server 12 can grasp the inconsistency in the first server 11 or the inconsistency that has occurred between the first server 11 and the second server 12 based on the information layout group and the version number V sent collectively. Also, the administrator O of the second server 12 can grasp with which version number V the inconsistency is related based on the information layout group and the version number V sent collectively. Therefore, the information management system 1 can ensure the consistency of the information layout in the first server 11 that creates the information layout and the second server 12 that provides the information layout to the user.

[0155] (4-2) The information that constitutes the information layout of the information management system 1 is at least one or more of information indicating the type of the component CP arranged in the information layout, information indicating the arrangement position of the component CP, information indicating the size of the component CP, information indicating the color of the component CP, information indicating the operation setting of the component CP, information indicating the event of the component CP, and information indicating the access authority to the information layout.

[0156] Therefore, the information management system 1 can ensure the consistency of information indicating the type of component CP arranged in the information layout, information indicating the arrangement position of component CP, information indicating the size of component CP, information indicating the color of component CP, information indicating the operation settings of component CP, information indicating the events of component CP, and information indicating the access rights to the information layout.

[0157] (4-3) In the information management system 1, the transmission unit 113 transmits, in a batch, an information layout group, a version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, and unique identification information ID indicating the information layout group to the second server 12. Also, in the information management system 1, the reception unit 123 receives, in a batch, an information layout group, a version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, and unique identification information ID indicating the information layout group from the first server 11.

[0158] In addition to the information layout group and the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, the information management system 1 also transmits and receives, in a batch, unique identification information ID indicating the information layout group. Therefore, the information management system 1 can more ensure the consistency of the information layout based on the unique identification information ID indicating the information layout group.

[0159] (4-4) The information management system 1 further includes a second control unit 121 in the second server 12. When there are a plurality of information layouts with the same unique identification information ID and the same version number V received by the reception unit 123, the second control unit 121 cross-checks the information constituting the plurality of information layouts to determine whether the information constituting the plurality of information layouts is the same.

[0160] When there are multiple information layouts with the same unique identification information ID and the same version number V, the information management system 1 determines whether the information constituting the multiple information layouts is the same. Therefore, the information management system 1 can better ensure the consistency of the information layouts based on the determination result of whether the information constituting the multiple information layouts is the same.

[0161] (4-5) When the second control unit 121 of the information management system 1 determines that the information constituting the multiple information layouts is not the same, the information management system 1 does not update the information layouts.

[0162] When the information management system 1 determines that the information constituting the multiple information layouts with the same unique identification information ID and the same version number V is not the same, the information management system 1 does not update the information layouts. Therefore, when the information constituting the multiple information layouts is not the same, the information management system 1 can prevent inconsistencies caused by updating the information layouts.

[0163] (4-6) The information management system 1 notifies at least any one of the following to the outside: whether the information constituting the multiple information layouts is the same when the second control unit 121 determines whether the information constituting the multiple information layouts is the same, the version number V associated with the information layout determined to be not the same when it is determined that the information constituting the multiple information layouts is not the same, and the information constituting the information layout determined to be not the same when it is determined that the information constituting the multiple information layouts is not the same.

[0164] The information management system 1 notifies the outside of whether the information constituting the multiple information layouts is the same, the version number V associated with the information layout determined to be not the same, and the information constituting the information layout determined to be not the same. The information management system 1 performs notification related to inconsistencies to the outside and makes the outside aware of the inconsistencies. Therefore, the information management system 1 can better ensure the consistency of the information layouts.

[0165] (4-7) The information management system 1 has the first control unit 111 receive information indicating the release of the information layout. Also, in the information management system 1, when the first control unit 111 receives information indicating release, the transmission unit 113 transmits the information layout group and the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group to the second server 12 in a batch.

[0166] When the information management system 1 receives information indicating release, it transmits the information layout group and the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group to the second server 12 in a batch. Therefore, the information management system 1 does not transmit an information layout being created and can ensure the consistency of the released information layouts.

[0167] (4-8) The information management system 1 further includes a setting unit 1115. The setting unit 1115 sets so that at least any one of the information constituting each information layout included in the information layout group transmitted by the transmission unit 113 and the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group transmitted by the transmission unit 113 is not changed.

[0168] Therefore, the information management system 1 can prevent inconsistencies caused by changes in the information constituting each information layout included in the information layout group transmitted by the transmission unit 113 and the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group transmitted by the transmission unit 113.

[0169] (5) Variation (5-1) Variation 1A (5-1-1) Configuration of the first server The first storage unit 112 may further store related information indicating one or more form layout groups RG related to the form layout group RG. Examples of "one or more form layout groups RG related to the form layout group RG" include one or more form layout groups RG including form layouts RL that have a so-called parent-child relationship with the form layout RL included in the form layout group RG, one or more other form layout groups RG associated with data associated with the form layout group RG, and one or more form layout groups RG preset to be related to the form layout group RG by the creator C or the administrator O, and the like.

[0170] Based on the related information, the transmission unit 113 collectively transmits the form layout group RG, the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG, the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG, and one or more form layout groups RG related to the form layout group RG to the second server 12.

[0171] (5-1-2) Configuration of the second server The reception unit 123 collectively receives from the first server 11 the form layout group RG, the version number V associated with each form layout RL included in the form layout group RG, the unique identification information ID indicating the form layout group RG, and one or more form layout groups RG related to the form layout group RG.

[0172] (5-1-3) Features The information management system 1 further stores related information indicating one or more information layout groups related to the information layout group in the storage unit. Also, in the information management system 1, when the transmission unit 113 transmits, based on the related information, the information layout group, the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, and one or more information layout groups related to the information layout group, all at once to the second server 12. Further, in the information management system 1, the reception unit 123 receives, all at once from the first server 11, the information layout group, the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, and one or more information layout groups related to the information layout group.

[0173] In addition to the information layout group and the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group, the information management system 1 also transmits and receives, all at once, one or more information layout groups related to the information layout group. The administrator O of the second server 12 can grasp at least either whether an inconsistency has occurred in the information layout group related to the information layout group or which version number V the inconsistency has occurred with respect to. Therefore, the information management system 1 can ensure the consistency of the information layout group related to the information layout group. Also, the administrator O of the second server 12 can manage the information layout group related to the information layout group. Also, a user who uses the information layout group provided from the second server 12 can also use the information layout group related to the information layout group.

[0174] (5-2) Variant 1B (5-2-1) Configuration FIG. 13 is a control block diagram of the information management system 2. The second server 13 further has a backup unit 125.

[0175] When the reception unit 123 receives the form layout group RG, the backup unit 125 transmits the form layout group RG to the outside.

[0176] The second server 13 is implemented by a computer. The second server 13 includes a control arithmetic unit (first control unit 111) and a storage device (first storage unit 112). FIG. 13 shows various functional blocks implemented by the control arithmetic unit.

[0177] (5-2-2) Features In the information management system 2, the second server 13 further includes a backup unit 125. When the receiving unit 123 receives an information layout group, the backup unit 125 transmits the information layout group to the outside.

[0178] The information management system 2 transmits the received information layout group to the outside. If the externally transmitted information layout group is recorded in an external storage device, even when a failure occurs in the second server 13, the administrator O can manage the information layout group, and the user can use the information layout group. Further, if the externally transmitted information layout group is recorded in a storage device, the information layout group can be synchronized after the failure of the second server 13 is recovered. Therefore, the information management system 2 can back up the received information layout group and prevent inconsistencies due to system failures and the like.

[0179] (5-3) Modification Example 1C When the first recording unit 1112 or the second recording unit 1212 updates the form layout group RG, the data associated with the form layout group RG before the update may be associated with the form layout group RG after the update.

[0180] Even after the update of the form layout group RG, the creator C can create the form layout RL based on the data associated with the form layout group RG before the update. Even after the update of the form layout group RG, the administrator O can manage the form layout group RG based on the data associated with the form layout group RG before the update. Even after the update of the form layout group RG, the user can use the form layout group RG based on the data associated with the form layout group RG before the update.

[0181] (5-4) Variant Example 1D The setting unit 1115 may be provided in the second server 12. Further, the setting unit 1115 may be provided outside the first server 11 and the second server 12. The setting unit 1115 may be set after the transmission by the transmission unit 113 and before the reception by the reception unit 123. The setting unit 1115 may be set after the reception by the reception unit 123. Therefore, the information management system 1 can prevent inconsistencies caused by changes in the information constituting each information layout included in the information layout group and the version number V associated with each information layout included in the information layout group in more diverse modes.

[0182] As described above, the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described. It will be understood that various changes in form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure described in the claims.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0183] 1 Information management system 2 Information management system 11 First server 12 Second server 13 Second server 111 First control unit 113 Transmission unit 1115 Setting unit 121 Second control unit 123 Reception unit 125 Backup unit CP Component ID Unique identification information V Version number

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0184]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. A first server (11), a second server (12, 13), and is provided with The first server includes a first control unit (111) for creating an information layout, a storage unit for storing an information layout group including a plurality of versions of the information layout, a transmission unit (113) that collectively transmits the information layout group and version numbers (V) associated with each of the information layouts included in the information layout group to the second server, and has The second server is a server that provides the information layout to a user who uses the information layout created by the first server, a receiving unit (123) that collectively receives the information layout group and the version numbers associated with each of the information layouts included in the information layout group from the first server, and has an information management system (1, 2).

2. The information constituting the information layout includes information indicating the type of a component (CP) arranged in the information layout, information indicating the arrangement position of the component, information indicating the size of the component, information indicating the color of the component, information indicating the operation setting of the component, information indicating the event of the component, information indicating the access right to the information layout, and is at least one or more of the information management system according to Claim 1.

3. The transmitting unit transmits, to the second server in a batch, the information layout group, the version numbers associated with the respective information layouts included in the information layout group, and unique identification information (ID) indicating the information layout group. The receiving unit receives, from the first server in a batch, the information layout group, the version numbers associated with the respective information layouts included in the information layout group, and the unique identification information indicating the information layout group. The information management system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The second server When there are a plurality of the information layouts with the same unique identification information and the same version number received by the receiving unit, a second control unit (121) that compares the information constituting the plurality of information layouts with each other and determines whether the information constituting the plurality of information layouts is the same. further includes The information management system according to claim 3.

5. When the second control unit determines that the information constituting the plurality of information layouts is not the same, the second control unit does not update the information layout. The information management system according to claim 4.

6. The second control unit Whether the information constituting the plurality of information layouts is the same when determining whether the information constituting the plurality of information layouts is the same, The version number associated with the information layout determined to be not the same when determining that the information constituting the plurality of information layouts is not the same, The information constituting the information layout determined to be not the same when determining that the information constituting the plurality of information layouts is not the same, at least any one of which is notified to the outside. The information management system according to claim 4.

7. The first control unit receives information indicating the release of the information layout, When the first control unit receives the information indicating the release, the transmission unit transmits the information layout group and the version numbers associated with the respective information layouts included in the information layout group to the second server in a batch. The information management system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

8. The storage unit further stores related information indicating one or more information layout groups related to the information layout group, Based on the related information, the transmission unit transmits the information layout group, the version numbers associated with the respective information layouts included in the information layout group, and one or more information layout groups related to the information layout group to the second server in a batch. The receiving unit receives, in a batch, the information layout group, the version numbers associated with the respective information layouts included in the information layout group, and one or more information layout groups related to the information layout group from the first server. The information management system according to claim 1.

9. A setting unit (1115) configured to set so that at least one of the information constituting each of the information layouts included in the information layout group transmitted by the transmission unit and the version numbers associated with the respective information layouts included in the information layout group transmitted by the transmission unit is not changed. The information management system according to claim 1 or claim 8, further comprising the setting unit.

10. The second server, When the receiving unit receives the information layout group, a backup unit (125) that transmits the information layout group to the outside. The information management system according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising the backup unit.

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