Information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

To further improve usability in a technology for providing contents to users.SOLUTION: An information processing device according to the present application includes a providing unit, a payment unit, and a display control unit. The providing unit provides an illustration image displayed in association with a prescribed content to a user who pays a distributor of the prescribed content a grant to support a creator of the prescribed content. The payment unit pays the creator of the prescribed content an information provision fee as a reward for providing the prescribed content. The display control unit controls such that an illustration image corresponding to the user is displayed at a prescribed position preset to the prescribed content.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present application relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there are known techniques for providing various information to users. For example, there is a technique for selecting content to be provided to a user based on the user's browsing of content using a recommendation system. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-051357 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, there is a demand for further improvements in usability in the technology for providing content to users.

[0005] The present application has been made in consideration of the above, and aims to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program that can further improve usability in technology for providing content to users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The information processing device according to the present application includes a providing unit, a payment unit, and a display control unit. The providing unit provides an illustration image displayed in association with a specified content to a user who has paid a support fee to a distributor of the specified content for the creator of the specified content. The payment unit executes payment of an information provision fee to the creator of the specified content as compensation for providing the specified content. The display control unit controls the illustration image corresponding to the user to be displayed at a predetermined position set in advance for the specified content. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to achieve an effect of further improving usability in a technology for providing content to users. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing executed by an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a screen transition according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of information processing for providing an alias according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of user information stored in a user information storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of support information according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows an example of information related to the stamp image according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of user rank information according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of information related to aliases according to the embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of information related to acquired synonyms according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of the support process according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for the aliasing process according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a hardware configuration diagram illustrating an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the information processing device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, modes for implementing an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments") will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the information processing device, the information processing method, and the information processing program according to the present application are not limited to these embodiments. Furthermore, the respective embodiments can be appropriately combined within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content. Furthermore, the same components in the following embodiments will be assigned the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0010] [1. Introduction] In recent years, due to the impact of self-restraint measures aimed at preventing the spread of infectious diseases, an increasing number of people are accessing platforms that distribute digital content such as video content, text content, and newsletters via the internet and viewing this digital content. As a result, there is a growing need for PGC (Professional Generated Contents) and PUGC (Professional User Generated Contents) with the aim of continuously providing high-quality content.

[0011] Platforms that distribute various digital content employ professionals such as authors who create the content and commentators who comment on the content, and strive to provide high-quality content. In order to ensure the continuous provision of high-quality content, it is essential to create a platform that provides a "place" that connects content creators with content viewers and supports content creators.

[0012] In light of these circumstances, the present application aims to provide a platform that enables users (viewers) who are satisfied with or find useful high-quality content to support and encourage authors by providing them with money, stamps, etc.

[0013] [2. Overview of Information Processing According to Embodiment] First, an example of information processing executed by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of information processing executed by the information processing device according to the embodiment. Fig. 1 describes an example of information processing in the case where content provided to a user is article content (an example of "predetermined content"). Note that the information processing described below is not limited to text content such as article content, and can be similarly applied to cases where the type of content provided to a user is any digital content such as video content or newsletter.

[0014] (2-1. System Configuration) As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system SYS according to the embodiment includes a terminal device 10-1, a terminal device 10-2, and an information processing device 100. The terminal device 10-1, the terminal device 10-2, and the information processing device 100 are connected to a network such as the Internet (for example, the network N shown in FIG. 4). The terminal device 10-1 and the information processing device 100 can communicate with each other through the network. Furthermore, the terminal device 10-2 and the information processing device 100 can communicate with each other through the network. Note that the configuration of the information processing system SYS shown in FIG. 1 is an example, and more terminal devices 10 than the example shown in FIG. 1 may be included.

[0015] The terminal device 10-1 is an information processing terminal used by an author UX who is the creator of the article content. For example, the terminal device 10-1 can be realized by a desktop PC (Personal Computer), a notebook PC, a tablet terminal, or the like. The author UX creates the article content using the terminal device 10-1.

[0016] The terminal device 10-2 is an information processing terminal used by a user UY to access web pages displayed in a browser, application content, etc. For example, the terminal device 10-2 may be realized by a desktop PC (Personal Computer), a notebook PC, a tablet terminal, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), etc. Note that the terminal device 10-2 is not limited to the above examples and may be, for example, a smart watch, a wearable device, etc. The user UY accesses a platform operated by the information processing device 100 and views article content created by the author UX.

[0017] The information processing device 100 is an information processing device that executes information processing according to the embodiment, and can be realized by a server device, a cloud system, etc. An administrator of the information processing device 100 provides a platform service that distributes article content to a user UY.

[0018] (2-2. Contents of information processing) Hereinafter, the details of information processing according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. As shown in Fig. 1, the author UX creates article content using the terminal device 10-1 (step S1), and submits the created article content to the information processing device 100 via the terminal device 10-1 (step S2). That is, the terminal device 10-1 transmits data of the article content to the information processing device 100.

[0019] The information processing device 100 manages the article content received from the terminal device 10-1 in association with the author UX who is the creator. In addition, in response to a request from the user UY, the information processing device 100 transmits the article content corresponding to the request (step S3).

[0020] The terminal device 10-2 displays the article content received from the information processing device 100. The user UY browses the article content displayed on the terminal device 10-2. In accordance with an operation by the user UY, the terminal device 10-2 transmits a support setting request to the author UX, who is the creator of the article content (step S4).

[0021] When the information processing device 100 receives the support setting request from the terminal device 10-2, it transmits a support setting screen to the terminal device 10-2 in response to the support setting request from the user UY (step S5).

[0022] The terminal device 10-2 displays the support setting screen received from the information processing device 100. The user UY operates the support setting screen displayed on the terminal device 10-2 to select the amount of support money for the author UX (step S6). The user UY also selects a stamp image to be displayed in association with the article content created by the author UX (step S7). The user UY also operates the support setting screen to select a support message for the author UX (step S8). In accordance with the operation of the user UY, the terminal device 10-2 transmits a support execution request including the support money, stamp image, and support message data selected by the user UY to the information processing device 100 (step S9).

[0023] When the information processing device 100 receives a support execution request from the terminal device 10-2, it executes a payment process for the support money selected by the user UY in response to the support execution request from the user UY (step S10). If the payment process is completed successfully, the information processing device 100 executes registration of the stamp selected by the user UY (step S11). Furthermore, the information processing device 100 executes payment of an information provision fee to the author UX as compensation for providing the article content (step S12). Then, the information processing device 100 transmits a support completion screen to the terminal device 10-2 (step S13).

[0024] The terminal device 10-2 displays the support completion screen received from the information processing device 100, and the user UY confirms that the support for the author UX has been completed successfully by viewing the support completion screen displayed on the terminal device 10-2.

[0025] (2-3. Screen display example) Hereinafter, an example of screen transitions displayed on the terminal device 10-2 in association with the information processing according to the embodiment described above will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of screen transitions according to the embodiment. Note that the screen display example shown in Fig. 2 is an example, and may be configured in a display form different from the example shown in Fig. 2.

[0026] 2, the terminal device 10-2 displays a content display screen W1 that displays article content. For example, the content display screen W1 includes an article display area A1 in which the article content is displayed and a profile display area A2 in which the author's profile is displayed.

[0027] Additionally, in the profile display area A2, adjacent to the name of the author (hereinafter referred to as "author") who created the article content, a status image G1 is displayed indicating that the author is currently accepting support from any user (hereinafter referred to as "user") who is viewing the article content. Note that the display position of the status image G1 is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 2, and it can be displayed in any position, such as in the article display area A1 or on a screen displaying a list of article contents.

[0028] The profile display area A2 also includes a support stamp display area A3 that displays a list of stamp images corresponding to each user who has sent support to the author. Display control of the stamp images displayed in the support stamp display area A3 is performed by the information processing device 100. Display control of stamp images by the information processing device 100 will be described in detail below.

[0029] Furthermore, when a stamp image displayed in the support stamp display area A3 is selected (for example, by hovering the mouse over it), a message image G2 showing the support message received from the user is displayed. The specific content of the support message from the user is displayed in the message image G2. In this way, the information processing device 100 can provide specific support from the user to the author, and can improve the sense of unity between the user and the author through the platform.

[0030] In addition, the profile display area A2 is provided with a button OB1 for accepting a support setting request from a user. The button OB1 may be controlled to transition to an operable state or to be displayed in the profile display area A2 on the condition that the author is in a state of accepting support.

[0031] Following the display of the content display screen W1, when button OB1 provided in the profile display area A2 is operated, a support setting request is sent from the terminal device 10-2 to the information processing device 100 in response to this operation (see step S4 in Figure 1), and the support setting screen W2 provided by the information processing device 100 is displayed on the terminal device 10-2.

[0032] The support setting screen W2 shown in Figure 2 includes a support money selection area A4 for accepting from the user the selection of the amount of support money (payment amount) to be given to the author, a stamp image selection area A5 for accepting from the user the selection of a stamp image to be displayed in the support stamp display area A3, and a message input area A6 for accepting from the user the selection of a support message for the author.

[0033] The donation selection area A4 displays candidate donation amounts that the user can select as the amount of donation to the author. In the example shown in FIG. 2, three candidate donation amounts are displayed: two options, "10 yen," "20 yen," and "any option," which accepts any amount input by the user. Note that the candidate donation amounts shown in FIG. 2 are merely examples, and amounts different from those shown in FIG. 2 may be selected as candidate donation amounts. By paying a donation to the administrator of the information processing device 100 that operates the platform that distributes the article content, the user receives permission to use the stamp image that is displayed in association with the article content, and indirectly supports the author. Note that an information provision fee is paid to the author by the platform provider (the administrator of the information processing device 100 that operates the platform that distributes various digital content) as compensation for providing the article content.

[0034] The stamp image selection area A5 displays a list of stamp image samples that the user can select. The stamp image samples displayed in the stamp image selection area A5 may be samples that correspond to the amount (payment amount) of the support money selected in the support money selection area A4. For example, the larger the amount (payment amount) of the support money, the more stamp image samples that are displayed and configured with designs, sizes, and colors that attract the viewer's attention may be selectable. In other words, the information processing device 100 can display stamp images that have different display forms depending on the amount (payment amount) of the support money, in association with the article content. In this way, the information processing device 100 can realize stamp display that reflects the support content of the user.

[0035] The message input area A6 includes an input box for the user to type in a cheering message. The message input area A6 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 2 and may be configured to allow the user to select a desired message from a selection of pre-prepared cheering messages. For example, a pull-down menu may be provided for the user to select a cheering message for the author. In this case, the user selects at least one cheering message from a selection of pre-prepared phrases displayed in response to an operation of the pull-down menu provided in the message input area A6. By allowing the user to select a cheering message for the author from a selection of pre-prepared phrases, the possibility of sending an inappropriate message to the author can be eliminated in advance without the need to carefully review the content of the user's cheering message. Also, in FIG. 2, a completed cheering message image G3 is displayed below the message input area A6. For example, the completed cheering message image G3 illustrated in FIG. 2 is configured in the form of a message card. The completed cheering message image G3 may be configured so that the user can select a desired template design from a selection of pre-prepared message card templates.

[0036] In this way, when the information processing device 100 receives a support message from a user for the author through a platform that distributes article content, it can provide the support message to the author. Also, when the author performs an operation to display a support message provided by a user, for example, information indicating that the support message has been read may be displayed in association with the support message.

[0037] The support setting screen W2 also has a button OB2 for accepting a support execution request from the user. The button OB2 may be controlled to transition to an operable state or to be displayed on the support setting screen W2 on the condition that at least the selection of the support money selection area A4 and the selection of the stamp image are completed and the author is in a state of accepting support.

[0038] Furthermore, if button OB2 on the support setting screen W2 is operated following the display of the support setting screen W2, a support execution request is sent from terminal device 10-2 to information processing device 100 in response to this operation (see step S9 in Figure 1), and support completion screen W3 provided by information processing device 100 is displayed on terminal device 10-2.

[0039] 2, a support completion screen W3 displays a support completion image G4, which indicates that the process of sending support to the author has been completed, on a semi-transparent style sheet superimposed on the support setting screen W2. The support completion image G4 includes a button OB3 for redisplaying the content display screen W1, which displays the article content, in response to a user request. When the button OB3 is operated, the content display screen W1 is again displayed on the terminal device 10-2.

[0040] After the support is completed, the content display screen W1 reflects the support result by the user. For example, the information processing device 100 can control the display of a stamp image corresponding to the user in the support stamp display area A3 of the content display screen W1 according to the priority of the stamp image that is preset according to the amount of support money paid to the author. The display control of the stamp image executed by the information processing device 100 will be described below.

[0041] To explain this in more detail using the example shown in FIG. 2, if the amount of the support money (payment amount) is 21 yen or more, the priority is "high." If the amount of the support money (payment amount) is 11 yen or more and 20 yen or less, the priority is "medium." If the amount of the support money (payment amount) is 10 yen or less, the priority is "low." The higher the amount of the support money (payment amount), the higher the priority. If the priority of the stamp image corresponding to the user is "high," the information processing device 100 displays the stamp image in an area associated with the priority "high" in the support stamp display area A3 (for example, the top row). If the priority of the stamp image corresponding to the user is "medium," the information processing device 100 displays the stamp image in an area associated with the priority "medium" in the support stamp display area A3 (for example, the second row from the top). If the priority of the stamp image corresponding to the user is "low," the information processing device 100 displays the stamp image in an area associated with the priority "low" in the support stamp display area A3 (for example, the third row from the top).

[0042] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may control the display of stamp images corresponding to a user in the support stamp display area A3 of the content display screen W1 according to a display pattern of the stamp image that is preset according to the priority of the stamp image. For example, when the priority of the stamp image corresponding to a user is "high," the information processing device 100 controls the display of the stamp image in an area associated with the priority "high" in the support stamp display area A3 (for example, the top row) for 60 minutes, and then in an area associated with the priority "low" (for example, the third row from the top) in order of new arrival. For example, when the priority of the stamp image corresponding to a user is "medium," the information processing device 100 controls the display of the stamp image in an area associated with the priority "medium" in the support stamp display area A3 (for example, the second row from the top) for 30 minutes, and then in an area associated with the priority "low" (for example, the third row from the top) in order of new arrival. In this way, the information processing device 100 can realize a stamp display that reflects the support of users for an author.

[0043] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may display the name of the user in association with the stamp image. For example, in the example shown in Fig. 2, the message image G2 displayed in association with the stamp image displayed in the support stamp display area A3 displays the name of the user who sent the support message. Note that the information processing device 100 may display a handle name set by the user instead of the user's name.

[0044] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may accept a setting to hide a stamp image from the user. Note that the information processing device 100 may accept the setting to hide a stamp image when the user selects a stamp image from a list of selectable stamp image samples in the stamp image selection area A5, for example, or may accept the setting at any timing after transmitting a support execution request.

[0045] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may determine a user rank indicating the user's ranking based on the content of the action of supporting the author. For example, the information processing device 100 may determine a user rank based on the payment history of support money paid by the user to the author. Specifically, among users whose cumulative payment amount of support money to the author exceeds a predetermined amount, the information processing device 100 ranks the users based on the amount of cumulative payment, such that the higher the cumulative payment amount, the higher the user rank. Note that the payment history of support money may be the total amount of money paid to the author as support money (cumulative payment amount), as described above, or the total amount of support money paid to the author over a predetermined period (cumulative payment amount during the predetermined period), or the total number of support money payments made to the author up to now (cumulative number of payments), or the total number of support money payments made to the author over a predetermined period (cumulative number of payments during the predetermined period).

[0046] Furthermore, for example, the information processing device 100 can also determine a user rank based on the record of messages provided by the user to the author. Specifically, the information processing device 100 ranks users who have provided more support messages to the author than a predetermined number based on the number of support messages provided, such that users who have provided more support messages have a higher user rank. Note that the record of support message provision may be the total number of support messages provided to the author (total number provided), or the total number of support messages provided to the author in a predetermined period (number provided during the predetermined period). Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can determine a user rank based on at least one of the record of payment of support money and the record of support message provision.

[0047] The information processing device 100 may then present to the user a plurality of stamp image samples prepared in advance in association with the user rank, and display a stamp image sample selected by the user from the presented plurality of stamp image samples as a stamp image corresponding to the user. In this way, the information processing device 100 can realize stamp display that reflects the user's support record for the author.

[0048] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may determine an individual user rank for each author based on the content of the actions tallied for each author. In this way, the information processing device 100 can display stamps that reflect the support records of users for each author.

[0049] As described above, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can further improve usability in a technology for providing content to users. That is, the information processing device 100 can provide a mechanism for users to easily provide support money and support messages to authors through a content distribution platform. The information processing device 100 can also provide a mechanism for an unspecified number of users, including authors, to easily check stamp images and support messages displayed in association with content. This allows the information processing device 100 to provide a forum for interaction through the platform, where authors who create content and users who view the content can feel a sense of unity. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can increase authors' motivation to create content and distribute high-quality content through support from users.

[0050] (2-4. Granting Author-Provided Content) An example of information processing will be described below in which author-provided content preset by an author is assigned to a user whose action on the author satisfies predetermined criteria. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of information processing regarding the provision of an alias according to an embodiment. Note that, in the following, a case will be described in which the author-provided content is an alias (nickname on the platform) set by the author, but it is not limited to text content such as an alias, and may also be image content such as a stamp image. Furthermore, the author-provided content is not limited to a platform that distributes various digital contents, and may also be usable in platforms that provide various services with which the information processing device 100 cooperates.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 3, the information processing device 100 has user rank information indicating a user rank, which indicates the ranking of a user determined based on the content of an action taken by an author. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the user rank information stores a user (user ID) corresponding to each user rank for each author (author ID). For example, the information processing device 100 can determine a user rank based on the payment history of support money paid by the user to the author. Specifically, the information processing device 100 ranks users whose cumulative payment of support money to the author exceeds a predetermined amount based on the amount of cumulative payment, such that users with larger cumulative payments have a higher user rank. Furthermore, for example, the information processing device 100 can also determine a user rank based on the number of messages provided by the user to the author. Specifically, the information processing device 100 ranks users whose number of support messages provided to the author exceeds a predetermined number based on the number of support messages provided, such that users with a larger number of messages have a higher user rank. In this way, the information processing device 100 can determine a user rank that appropriately reflects the support history for the author.

[0052] The information processing device 100 also has alias information relating to aliases set in advance by the author. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the alias information is stored in association with the author (author ID), and rank conditions set by the author and gift aliases are associated with each other. The rank conditions store information indicating the user rank to which the alias is assigned, and can be set arbitrarily by each author. The gift alias stores information indicating an alias arbitrarily set by each author as an alias to be assigned to the user.

[0053] The information processing device 100 then executes information processing for assigning a nickname to a user based on the user rank information and the nickname information. For example, the information processing device 100 acquires user information at a predetermined timing and aggregates the user information individually for each author. The information processing device 100 also updates the user rank based on the aggregation results of the user information. Based on the latest user rank, the information processing device 100 identifies users whose user ranks satisfy rank conditions among users whose actions toward the author satisfy predetermined criteria. The predetermined criteria can be set to be easy for users to understand and achieve, such as a cumulative payment amount of a predetermined amount or more, or a predetermined number of support messages provided in a predetermined period of time, or the like. The information processing device 100 then assigns a corresponding gift nickname to the identified user. The example shown in Figure 3 shows a case in which the information processing device 100 assigns a gift alias "alias EX001" corresponding to an author with author ID "AT#001" and a gift alias "alias EX002" corresponding to an author with author ID "AT#002" to a user with user ID "U#001".

[0054] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can perform control so that information about a nickname acquired by the user is displayed in article content in association with a stamp image corresponding to the user. For example, in the example shown in Fig. 3, a nickname given to the user UY is displayed in a message image G2 displayed on the content display screen W1 on which article content is displayed in accordance with the selection of a stamp image displayed in the support stamp display area A3.

[0055] In this way, the information processing device 100 can realize a scheme that provides users with rewards set by authors. This allows the information processing device 100 to give users a psychological boost, increasing their motivation to support authors. Furthermore, increased user support can be expected to further increase authors' motivation to create content, increasing the likelihood of creating a virtuous cycle that allows for the continuous provision of high-quality content. As a result, the usability of the technology that provides content to users can be further improved.

[0056] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may combine multiple nicknames given to the user and provide them as a single nickname. In this case, the information processing device 100 can provide any number of combinations of nicknames. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may receive from the user a method for combining multiple nicknames. Furthermore, when multiple nicknames have been given to the user, the information processing device 100 may receive from the user a setting for distinguishing between "pre-synonyms (adjectival synonyms)" and "post-synonyms (nouns)" for the nicknames set by the author.

[0057] Furthermore, although the information processing device 100 has been described as assigning a gift alias to a user who satisfies the rank conditions, the information processing device 100 may also accept the setting of multiple gift aliases from the author depending on the user's history of supporting money payments (cumulative payment amount, cumulative payment amount during a specified period, cumulative number of payments, cumulative number of payments during a specified period, etc.) and their history of providing supporting messages (total number of messages provided, total number of messages provided during a specified period, etc.).

[0058] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may impose certain restrictions on the content of the gift alias set by the author. For example, the information processing device 100 may perform control so that the gift alias cannot be set if its content is offensive to public order and morals. Furthermore, for example, the information processing device 100 may allow the user to use the alias for an arbitrary period set by the author or a platform provider (an administrator of the information processing device 100 who operates a platform for distributing various digital contents), or for an arbitrary service (such as an auction site) set by the author or the platform provider.

[0059] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may change the number of gift aliases that an author can set depending on the rank of the author evaluated according to a predetermined standard.

[0060] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may provide a function that allows the author to select a nickname prepared by the platform provider as a gift nickname according to the author's attributes. For example, if the author is from a specific region, the author may be able to select a nickname using the dialect of that region.

[0061] In the above-described information processing, the information processing device 100 may not disclose (provide) part of the information indicating the user rank. For example, the information processing device 100 may not disclose information that can identify users ranked highly among the user ranks. This allows the information processing device 100 to avoid overheating of the ranking battles and ensure the sound management of the exchange space.

[0062] [3. Configuration of information processing device] An example of the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the information processing device 100 has a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0063] (Regarding the communication unit 110) The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a network interface card (NIC). The communication unit 110 is connected to a network N by wire or wirelessly. The information processing device 100 transmits and receives information to and from other devices such as the terminal device 10 via the network N.

[0064] (Regarding the storage unit 120) The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 120 has a user information storage unit 121, a cheering information storage unit 122, a stamp information storage unit 123, a user rank storage unit 124, an alias information storage unit 125, and an acquired alias information storage unit 126.

[0065] (User information storage unit 121) The user information storage unit 121 stores user information relating to users who are users of a platform that distributes digital content. Fig. 5 shows an example of user information stored in the user information storage unit 121 according to the embodiment.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 5, the user information stored in the user information storage unit 121 has multiple items such as a "user ID" item, a "payment history" item, and a "message history" item. These items in the user information are associated with each other. Note that in FIG. 5, the information stored in each item in the user information is simplified and expressed as an abstract concept. Also, FIG. 5 shows an example of user information according to an embodiment, and may include information other than that shown in FIG. 5.

[0067] The "User ID" field stores a user ID (identifier), which is identification information individually assigned to users of a platform that distributes digital content. The "Payment History" field stores information indicating the payment (purchase) history of support money paid to authors through the aforementioned platform. The "Message History" field stores a message ID, which is identification information used to identify messages selected by users through the aforementioned platform.

[0068] Figure 5 shows an example in which "Payment BL001-1" is stored as the payment history of the donation made by a user identified by user ID: "U#001" through the platform. Figure 5 also shows an example in which the messages selected by a user identified by user ID: "U#001" through the platform are "Messages M-1, M-3."

[0069] (Support information storage unit 122) The cheering information storage unit 122 stores cheering information corresponding to a user. Fig. 6 shows an example of the cheering information according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 6, the cheering information stored in the cheering information storage unit 122 has multiple items such as a "user ID" item, a "content ID" item, a "registered stamp" item, and a "registered message" item. These items in the cheering information are associated with each other.

[0070] The "User ID" field stores a user ID, which is identification information individually assigned to users of a platform that distributes digital content. The "Content ID" field stores a content ID, which is identification information for identifying content distributed on the platform. The "Registered Stamp" field stores a stamp ID, which is identification information for identifying a stamp image selected by a user. Note that the stamp image identified by the stamp ID stored in the "Registered Stamp" field is created in advance by the platformer (the administrator of the information processing device 100 that operates the form that distributes various digital content). The "Registered Message" field stores a message ID, which is identification information for identifying a support message selected by a user.

[0071] 6 shows an example in which a stamp image identified by stamp ID: "Stamp #1-1" is selected by a user identified by user ID: "U#001" as a stamp image to be displayed in association with content identified by content ID: "Content #111." Also, FIG. 6 shows an example in which a support message identified by message ID: "Message #1-1, #1-3" is selected by a user identified by user ID: "U#001" as a support message to be provided to the author of content identified by content ID: "Content #111."

[0072] (Stamp information storage unit 123) The stamp information storage unit 123 stores information about stamp images that are selected by a user through the platform described above. Fig. 7 shows an example of information about stamp images according to this embodiment.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 7, the information about stamp images stored in the stamp information storage unit 123 has multiple items such as a "stamp type" item, an "affiliation stamp" item, a "support money" item, a "priority" item, and a "display pattern" item. These items in the information about stamp images are mutually associated. Note that in FIG. 7, the information stored in each item in the information about stamp images is simplified and expressed as an abstract concept. Also, FIG. 7 shows an example of the information about stamp images according to the embodiment, and may include information other than that shown in FIG. 7.

[0074] The "Stamp Type" field stores information for specifying the type of stamp image that is preset according to the amount of support paid to the author. The "Stamp Associated" field stores a stamp ID, which is identification information for identifying a stamp image that corresponds to the stamp type. The "Support Amount" field stores information indicating the set support amount at which stamp images that belong to the corresponding stamp type can be selected. The "Priority" field stores information indicating the display priority of stamp images that correspond to the set support amount. The "Display Pattern" field stores information indicating the method for displaying stamp images.

[0075] FIG. 7 shows an example in which the support amount at which each stamp image belonging to stamp type: "ST-1" can be selected is "21 yen or more" and the priority is "high." FIG. 7 also shows an example in which the display pattern for each stamp image belonging to stamp type: "ST-1" is stored as "display for T1 minutes in a position corresponding to priority "high," and then display in order of newest arrival in a position corresponding to priority "low." Here, an example of a position corresponding to priority "high" is the top row of the support stamp display area A3 (see FIG. 2) described above. Also, an example of a position corresponding to priority "low," for example, is the third row or later of the support stamp display area A3 (see FIG. 2) described above.

[0076] FIG. 7 also shows an example in which the support amount at which each stamp image belonging to stamp type: "ST-2" can be selected is "11 yen to 21 yen or less" and the priority is "medium." FIG. 7 also shows an example in which the display pattern for each stamp image belonging to stamp type: "ST-2" is stored as "display for T2 minutes in a position corresponding to priority "medium," and then display in order of new arrival in a position corresponding to priority "low." Here, an example of a position corresponding to priority "medium" is the second row of the support stamp display area A3 (see FIG. 2) described above. FIG. 7 also shows an example in which the support amount at which each stamp image belonging to stamp type: "ST-3" can be selected is "10 yen or less," and the priority is "low."

[0077] (User rank storage unit 124) The user rank storage unit 124 stores user rank information about a user rank determined based on the content of an action taken against an author. Fig. 8 shows an example of user rank information according to the embodiment.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 8, the user rank information stored in the user rank storage unit 124 has a "user rank" field and an "author (ID)" field. These fields in the user rank information are associated with each other. Note that in FIG. 8, the information stored in each field in the user rank information is simplified and expressed as an abstract concept. Also, FIG. 8 shows an example of user rank information according to an embodiment, and may include information other than that shown in FIG. 8.

[0079] The "User Rank" field contains an ordinal number indicating the user rank. The "Author (ID)" field contains the name of the author who created the digital content and the author ID, which is identification information individually assigned to the author. The user rank information stores, for each author, a user ID for identifying a user who has a user rank corresponding to the respective user rank, and information indicating the user rank before the user rank was updated.

[0080] Figure 8 shows an example in which, among users who sent encouragement to author "X-1" identified by author ID: "AT#001", the user identified by user ID: "U#001" has the highest user rank and his user rank before the update was second. Figure 8 also shows an example in which, among users who sent encouragement to author "X-1" identified by author ID: "AT#001", the user identified by user ID: "U#002" has the highest user rank and his user rank before the update was first.

[0081] (Synonym information storage unit 125) The synonym information storage unit 125 stores information about synonyms that are set in advance by the author for the purpose of providing them to users. Fig. 9 shows an example of information about synonyms according to this embodiment.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 9, the information about the alias stored in the alias information storage unit 125 has multiple items, such as an "author (ID)" item, an "action content" item, a "rank condition" item, and a "gift alias" item. These items in the information about the alias are associated with each other. Note that in FIG. 9, the information stored in each item in the information about the alias is simplified and expressed as an abstract concept. Also, FIG. 9 shows an example of the information about the alias according to the embodiment, and may include information other than that shown in FIG. 9, such as the period during which the alias can be used and other services (platforms) on which the alias can be used.

[0083] The "author (ID)" item stores the name of the author who created the digital content, and the author ID, which is identification information individually assigned to the author.

[0084] The "common criteria" field stores information about common criteria that are set in advance to narrow down the users to whom aliases are to be provided based on the content of actions taken against the author. For example, the "common criteria" field is composed of a first criterion related to the payment history of support money paid to the author and a second criterion related to the support message history provided to the author. The first and second criteria can also include elements related to any period. Note that the first and second criteria may be set to criteria that are intuitively easy for users to understand and as easy to achieve as possible, such as the first criterion being "the cumulative payment amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount" and the second criterion being "the number of support messages provided in a predetermined period is equal to or greater than a predetermined number."

[0085] The "rank condition" field stores information indicating the user rank set by the author as a condition for providing an alias. The "gift alias" field stores information indicating an alias that each author has arbitrarily set as an alias to be given to the user.

[0086] 9 shows an example in which, among the common criteria corresponding to all authors, the first criterion is "cumulative payment amount > threshold TH-1" and the second criterion is "number of support messages provided > threshold TH-2." Also, FIG. 9 shows an example in which the rank condition set by author "X-1" identified by author ID: "AT#001" is "1st place" and the gift alias is "Alias ​​EX001."

[0087] In addition to the various storage units described above, the storage unit 120 may also have other storage units, such as a storage unit that stores files containing data such as payment history and message history, and a storage unit that stores data files of stamp images.

[0088] (Acquired nickname information storage unit 126) The acquired alias information storage unit 126 stores information about acquired aliases acquired by the user. Fig. 10 shows an example of the information about acquired aliases according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 10, the information about acquired aliases stored in the acquired alias information storage unit 126 has multiple items such as a "user ID" item and an "acquired alias" item.

[0089] The "User ID" field stores a user ID, which is identification information individually assigned to users of a platform that distributes digital content. The "Acquired Alias" field has an "Author ID" field and an "Acquired Alias" field. The "Author ID" field stores an author ID, which is identification information individually assigned to the author who created the digital content. The "Acquired Alias" field stores information about the alias acquired by the user.

[0090] 10 shows an example in which one of the aliases acquired by a user identified by a user ID: "U#001" is "alias EX001" set for an author identified by an author ID: "AT#001." Note that the alias acquired by a user is not limited to platforms that distribute various digital contents, and may also be usable in platforms that provide various services (for example, an auction site or a knowledge community) that cooperate with the information processing device 100.

[0091] (Regarding the control unit 130) The control unit 130 is realized by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or the like executing various programs stored in a storage device inside the information processing device 100 using RAM as a work area. The control unit 130 is also realized by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0092] The control unit 130 shown in Fig. 4 has a providing unit 131, a settlement processing unit 132, a payment unit 133, a display control unit 134, a determination unit 135, and an granting unit 136, and these units realize or execute the functions and actions of the information processing described below. Note that the control unit 130 may have an internal configuration divided into multiple processing units that realize or execute the functions and actions of the information processing described below. The configuration is not limited to that shown in Fig. 4, and other configurations may be used as long as they perform the information processing described below.

[0093] (Provider 131) The providing unit 131 provides a stamp image to be displayed in association with the specified content to a user who has paid a support fee to the administrator of the information processing device 100, who is the distributor of the specified content, for the author, who is the creator of the specified content.

[0094] For example, when the payment processing unit 132, which will be described later, normally completes the payment processing of the support money selected by the user, the providing unit 131 executes usage registration to register the stamp image selected by the user through the predetermined content the user is viewing in association with the user ID individually assigned to the user. Note that the predetermined content corresponds to any digital content that can be distributed to users through a platform operated by the administrator of the information processing device 100, such as video content, text content, or newsletter.

[0095] For example, the providing unit 131 provides a stamp image corresponding to a sample selected by the user from a plurality of stamp image samples prepared in advance in association with the payment amount of the support money. Note that the above-mentioned stamp image sample has a different display form depending on, for example, the payment amount.

[0096] Furthermore, for example, the providing unit 131 may provide a stamp image corresponding to a sample selected by the user from a plurality of stamp image samples prepared in advance in association with the user rank.

[0097] Furthermore, when the providing unit 131 receives a cheering message for an author who is a creator of a predetermined content from a user who is a viewer through the predetermined content, the providing unit 131 provides the cheering message to the author. For example, the providing unit 131 provides the author with a cheering message made up of a fixed phrase selected by the user from a plurality of fixed phrases prepared in advance.

[0098] (Payment processing unit 132) The payment processing unit 132 executes a payment process for the support money selected by the user in response to a support execution request from the user. For example, the payment processing unit 132 can execute a payment process for settling the support money of the user with a payment service linked to the information processing device 100.

[0099] (Payment Department 133) The payment unit 133 executes payment of an information provision fee to an author who is a creator of a predetermined content as a reward for providing the content.

[0100] (Display control unit 134) The display control unit 134 controls to display a stamp image corresponding to a user at a predetermined position set in advance for a predetermined content. For example, the display control unit 134 can refer to the stamp information storage unit 123 and control to display the stamp image in accordance with the priority of the stamp image set in advance according to the amount of the support money paid. Specifically, the display control unit 134 can control to display the stamp image in accordance with a display pattern of the stamp image set in advance according to the priority.

[0101] Furthermore, the display control unit 134 can display the user's name in association with illustration information corresponding to the user. Furthermore, the display control unit 134 can accept a setting from the user not to display the stamp image.

[0102] Furthermore, the display control unit 134 can refer to the user rank storage unit 124 and perform control so that the stamp images are displayed in accordance with a display pattern that is set in advance in association with the user rank.

[0103] Furthermore, the display control unit 134 may perform control so that information indicating that the cheering message has been read is displayed in association with the cheering message in response to an action by the author on the cheering message.

[0104] (Decision unit 135) The determination unit 135 determines a user rank indicating the rank of the user based on the content of the action to support the creator of the predetermined content.

[0105] Furthermore, the determination unit 135 can determine the user rank based on the payment history of the support money paid by the user to the author. Specifically, among users whose cumulative payment amount of support money to the author exceeds a predetermined amount, the determination unit 135 performs ranking based on the amount of cumulative payment so that the user with a larger cumulative payment amount has a higher user rank.

[0106] Furthermore, for example, the determination unit 135 can determine the user rank based on the record of messages provided by the user to the author. Specifically, among users who have provided more than a predetermined number of supportive messages to the author, the determination unit 135 performs ranking based on the number of supportive messages provided, such that users who have provided more supportive messages are given a higher user rank.

[0107] The determination unit 135 individually tally user information (payment history and message provision history) for each author at a predetermined timing (for example, every day at a predetermined time) and can determine a user rank for each author based on the tally of user information. In addition, the determination unit 135 updates the user rank stored in the user rank storage unit 124 with the latest user rank every time it determines a user rank.

[0108] (Given unit 136) The assigning unit 136 assigns a nickname (an example of "author-provided content") to a user whose action content against an author who is a creator of predetermined content satisfies a predetermined criterion that is set in advance by the author. For example, the assigning unit 136 assigns a nickname to a user whose user rank, which indicates the user's ranking determined based on the action content, satisfies a predetermined condition that is set in advance by the author, among the users who satisfy the predetermined criterion.

[0109] Specifically, the assigning unit 136 refers to the user rank information and the alias information, and identifies users whose user ranks satisfy the rank conditions among users whose actions toward the author satisfy predetermined criteria. Then, the information processing device 100 assigns the corresponding gift alias to the identified users.

[0110] [4. Processing Procedure] (4-1. Support process) The following describes the procedure of information processing executed by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment. First, an example of the procedure of the cheering process according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the cheering process according to the embodiment. The processing procedure shown in FIG. 10 is executed by the control unit 130 of the information processing device 100. The processing procedure shown in FIG. 10 is repeatedly executed while the information processing device 100 is operating.

[0111] 10, when the payment processing unit 132 receives a support execution request (step S101), it executes the payment process for the support money selected by the user (step S102). Furthermore, when the payment processing unit 132 successfully completes the payment process, the payment unit 133 executes the payment of the information provision fee to the author as a reward for providing the predetermined content (step S103).

[0112] Furthermore, when the payment processing by the payment processing unit 132 is successfully completed, the providing unit 131 executes the usage registration of the stamp image and the support message selected by the user (step S104). Furthermore, the display control unit 134 executes the display control of the stamp image and the support message corresponding to the user (step S105), and ends the processing procedure shown in FIG.

[0113] In the processing procedure shown in FIG. 10, the processing procedure of step S104 may be executed before the processing procedure of step S103.

[0114] (4-2. Aliasing process) Next, an example of the procedure of the nickname assignment process according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the nickname assignment process according to the embodiment. The processing procedure shown in Fig. 11 is executed by the control unit 130 of the information processing device 100. The processing procedure shown in Fig. 11 is repeatedly executed while the information processing device 100 is operating.

[0115] 11, the determination unit 135 acquires user information (payment history and message provision history) at a predetermined timing (step S201). The determination unit 135 also aggregates the user information for each author individually (step S202), determines a user rank for each author based on the aggregated user information, and updates the user rank stored in the user rank storage unit 124 (step S203).

[0116] The assigning unit 136 also refers to the user rank storage unit 124 and identifies, for each author, a user whose user rank stored in the user rank storage unit 124 satisfies the rank condition stored in the alias information storage unit 125 (step S204). Then, the assigning unit 136 assigns a gift alias set by the corresponding author to the identified user (step S205), and ends the processing procedure shown in FIG.

[0117] [5. Modifications] The information processing device 100 described above may be implemented in various different forms other than the above embodiment, so other embodiments of the information processing device 100 will be described below.

[0118] (5-1. Regarding following up with the author) In the above embodiment, the information processing device 100 may provide a function for a user to associate and register a user who is the sender of a support request with an author who is the recipient of the support request, so that the author who sent the support request is automatically followed. The information processing device 100 may also provide a function for registering, in association with a user who is the sender of a request, an author selected by the user, so that the author selected by the user is followed. The information processing device 100 may also notify the user that new content from the author has been published, in conjunction with following the author. The information processing device 100 may also automatically display new content from the followed author on the top screen of a platform provided to the user.

[0119] (5-2. Displaying your support history) In the above embodiment, the information processing device 100 may provide a function for displaying a history of support messages sent to an author to a user. For example, the information processing device 100 may execute a process for displaying, for each author, stamp images and support messages sent when support messages were sent to the author in response to a user operation, through a personal screen of a platform provided to the user.

[0120] (5-3. Content Recommendations) In the above embodiment, the information processing device 100 may transmit content recommendations to the user based on the content created by authors that the user has supported in the past, etc. For example, the information processing device 100 can select content to recommend based on the similarity of the content of the content, etc.

[0121] (5-4. Author support features) In the above embodiment, the information processing device 100 may provide the author with a function for checking the information provision fee that the author has received from the administrator. In this case, the information processing device 100 may provide a dedicated site for the author to check the information provision fee, or may allow the author to check the fee on a personal page dedicated to the author through a content distribution platform.

[0122] (5-5. About author-provided content) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which a platform provider presents a plurality of stamp image samples corresponding to the amount of support paid to a user who has paid a support fee to the author, as stamp images to be displayed in association with the author's content. For example, an author may prepare stamp images selectable by users who have paid a support fee to the author in advance as author-provided content. Furthermore, in addition to stamp images, the author may also provide, as author-provided content, a nickname to be assigned to users who meet certain conditions. In this case, the information processing device 100 may have a function for receiving, from the author, various condition settings, such as conditions for support fees to be associated with stamp images and conditions for assigning nicknames. The information processing device 100 may also be configured to be able to receive such settings. Furthermore, a user may use any combination of stamp images and nicknames provided as author-provided content. In this case, the information processing device 100 may have a function for combining author-provided content in accordance with a user's operation. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may have a function for receiving, from the author, settings for services in which the author-provided content can be used, from among services linked to the platform provider.

[0123] [6. Hardware Configuration] The information processing device 100 according to the present embodiment described above is realized, for example, by a computer 1000 having a configuration as shown in Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the information processing device according to the embodiment.

[0124] The computer 1000 is connected to an output device 1010 and an input device 1020, and has a configuration in which an arithmetic unit 1030, a primary storage device 1040, a secondary storage device 1050, an output IF (Interface) 1060, an input IF 1070, and a network IF 1080 are connected by a bus 1090.

[0125] The arithmetic device 1030 operates based on programs stored in the primary storage device 1040 and secondary storage device 1050, programs read from the input device 1020, and the like, and executes various processes. The primary storage device 1040 is a memory device, such as a RAM, that temporarily stores data used by the arithmetic device 1030 for various calculations. The secondary storage device 1050 is a storage device in which data used by the arithmetic device 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and is realized by a ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD, flash memory, or the like.

[0126] The output IF 1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to an output device 1010 that outputs various types of information, such as a monitor or a printer, and is realized by a connector conforming to a standard such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), etc. The input IF 1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as a mouse, keyboard, and scanner, and is realized by, for example, USB.

[0127] The input device 1020 may be a device that reads information from an optical recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or a PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. The input device 1020 may also be an external storage medium such as a USB memory.

[0128] The network IF 1080 receives data from other devices via the network N and sends it to the arithmetic device 1030, and also transmits data generated by the arithmetic device 1030 to other devices via the network N.

[0129] The arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output IF 1060 and the input IF 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or the secondary storage device 1050 onto the primary storage device 1040 and executes the loaded program.

[0130] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment, the arithmetic device 1030 of the computer 1000 executes a program (for example, an information processing program) loaded onto the primary storage device 1040, thereby realizing the same functions as the control unit 130. That is, the arithmetic device 1030 cooperates with the program (for example, an information processing program) loaded onto the primary storage device 1040 to realize the processing by the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment.

[0131] [7. Other] Of the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically using a known method. In addition, the information including the processing procedures, specific names, various data, and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed as desired unless otherwise specified.

[0132] Furthermore, the components of each device shown in the figure are conceptual functional components and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0133] Furthermore, the above-described embodiments can be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction in the processing content.

[0134] [8. Effects] The information processing device 100 according to the embodiment includes a providing unit 131, a payment unit 133, and a display control unit 134. The providing unit 131 provides a stamp image (an example of an "illustration image") to be displayed in association with predetermined content to a user who has paid a support fee to a distributor (platform administrator) of predetermined content (for example, article content) for an author who is the creator of the predetermined content. The payment unit 133 executes payment of an information provision fee to the creator of the predetermined content as compensation for providing the predetermined content. The display control unit 134 controls the display of a stamp image corresponding to the user at a predetermined position set in advance for the predetermined content.

[0135] The providing unit 131 also provides a stamp image corresponding to a sample selected by the user from a plurality of stamp image samples prepared in advance in association with the payment amount of the support money. The stamp image sample has a different display form depending on the payment amount.

[0136] Furthermore, the display control unit 134 controls the display of stamp images in accordance with the priority of the stamp images that is set in advance according to the amount of support money paid.

[0137] Furthermore, the display control unit 134 controls the display of the stamp images in accordance with a display pattern of the stamp images that is set in advance according to the priority.

[0138] Furthermore, the display control unit 134 displays the user's name in association with the stamp image.

[0139] Furthermore, the display control unit 134 accepts a setting from the user not to display the stamp image.

[0140] Furthermore, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment includes a determination unit 135 that determines a user rank indicating a user's ranking based on the details of an action to support a creator of a predetermined content. In this case, the provision unit 131 provides a stamp image corresponding to a sample selected by the user from a plurality of stamp image samples prepared in advance in association with the user rank, and the display control unit 134 controls the display of the stamp image according to a display pattern that is set in advance in association with the user rank.

[0141] Furthermore, the determination unit 135 determines an individual user rank for each author, who is the creator of the content, based on the details of the actions tallied for each author.

[0142] For these reasons, the information processing device 100 according to the embodiment can further improve usability in a technology for providing content to users by using the processes executed by the above-described units or any combination of the units. That is, the information processing device 100 can provide a mechanism for users to easily provide support money and support messages to authors through a content distribution platform. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can provide a mechanism for an unspecified number of users, including authors, to easily view stamp images and support messages displayed in association with content. This allows the information processing device 100 to provide a forum for interaction through the platform, where authors who create content and users who view the content can feel a sense of unity. Furthermore, the information processing device 100 can increase authors' motivation to create content and distribute high-quality content through support from users.

[0143] The above describes in detail the embodiments of the present application based on several drawings, but these are merely examples, and the present invention can be implemented in other forms that include the embodiments described in the Disclosure of the Invention section and that have been modified and improved in various ways based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0144] Furthermore, the above-mentioned "section, module, unit" can be read as "means" or "circuit," etc. For example, a control section can be read as control means or a control circuit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0145] N Network SYS Information Processing System 10 Terminal Equipment 100 Information processing device 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 User information storage unit 122 Support information storage unit 123 Stamp information storage unit 124 User rank memory section 125 Alias ​​information storage unit 126 Acquired nickname information storage unit 130 control section 131 Provision Department 132 Payment processing unit 133 Payment Department 134 Display control unit 135 Decision Section 136 Granting Department

Claims

1. A payment processing unit that, when a support request for a creator of a specified content is received from a user, executes a payment process for a support amount selected by the user; a providing unit that provides an illustration image to be displayed in association with the predetermined content to a user who has paid the support money to a distributor of the predetermined content when the payment processing unit has successfully completed the payment processing of the support money; a payment unit that executes payment of an information provision fee to a creator of the predetermined content as a reward for providing the predetermined content; a display control unit that controls the illustration image corresponding to the user to be displayed for the predetermined content in accordance with a priority of the illustration image that is preset according to the amount of the support money paid; and The display control unit A display time for displaying the illustration image in the area associated with the priority in the predetermined content is controlled so that the higher the priority, the longer the display time.

1. An information processing device comprising:

2. The providing unit An illustration image corresponding to an illustration sample selected by the user from a plurality of illustration samples prepared in advance in association with the amount of the support payment is provided.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

3. The illustration sample is: The display format varies depending on the payment amount.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein:

4. The display control unit Displaying the user's name in association with the illustration image 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

5. The display control unit A setting to hide the illustration image is accepted from the user.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

6. A determination unit that determines a user rank indicating the rank of the user based on the payment history of the support money or the delivery history of the message provided by the user to the creator. and The determination unit Among users whose cumulative payment amount of the support money exceeds a predetermined amount, ranking is performed based on the cumulative payment amount so that the user with a larger cumulative payment amount has a higher user rank, or among users whose number of messages provided to the creator exceeds a predetermined number, ranking is performed based on the number of messages provided so that the user with a larger number of messages has a higher user rank, The providing unit providing an illustration image corresponding to an illustration sample selected by the user from a plurality of illustration samples prepared in advance in association with the user rank; The display control unit Control is performed so that the illustration image is displayed in accordance with a display pattern that is preset in association with the user rank.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

7. The determination unit The user rank is determined for each creator of the content based on the payment history of the support money or the delivery history of the message, which is calculated for each creator of the content.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6,

8. 1. A computer-implemented information processing method, comprising: a payment processing step of, when a support request for a creator of a predetermined content is received from a user, executing a payment process for the support money selected by the user; a providing step of providing an illustration image to be displayed in association with the predetermined content to a user who has paid the support money to a distributor of the predetermined content when the payment process of the support money is normally completed by the payment processing step; a payment step of paying an information provision fee to a creator of the predetermined content as a reward for providing the predetermined content; a display control step of controlling the illustration image to be displayed for the predetermined content in accordance with a priority of the illustration image that is preset according to the amount of the support money paid; Including, The display control step includes: A display time for displaying the illustration image in the area associated with the priority in the predetermined content is controlled so that the higher the priority, the longer the display time.

1. An information processing method comprising:

9. On the computer, a payment processing procedure for executing a payment process for the support money selected by a user when a support request for a creator of a predetermined content is received from the user; a provision step of providing an illustration image to be displayed in association with the predetermined content to a user who has paid the support money to a distributor of the predetermined content when the payment process of the support money is normally completed by the payment process step; a payment procedure for making a payment of an information provision fee to a creator of the predetermined content as a reward for providing the predetermined content; a display control step of controlling the illustration image to be displayed for the predetermined content in accordance with a priority of the illustration image that is preset according to the amount of the support money paid; Execute The display control procedure includes: A display time for displaying the illustration image in the area associated with the priority in the predetermined content is controlled so that the higher the priority, the longer the display time. An information processing program characterized by:

Images