Information processing device and information processing program

Abstract

To provide an information processing apparatus and an information processing program for facilitating the management of settings of authority of a plurality of image forming apparatuses constituting an image forming system, compared with a case where settings of authority is managed for each of the image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus has a processor. The processor receives a change of authority in one image forming apparatus of a plurality of image forming apparatuses in which authority is set for every role applied to a user, and when the change of authority in one image forming apparatus is applied to another image forming apparatus, if a predetermined condition is satisfied, reflects the received change of authority on the another image forming apparatus.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses an information processing system that includes an execution means for executing processing within the range permitted based on the set authority range set for a user who has logged in to the system, a storage means for storing authority information indicating the authority range that can be set for each user, a designation means for designating a change to the authority range of the logged-in user within the settable authority range indicated by the authority information, and a setting means for setting the authority range designated by the designation means as the set authority range in the execution means. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-31019 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In an image forming system consisting of multiple image forming devices, from a security standpoint, permissions are set for each role assigned to a user so that each image forming device complies with the predetermined conditions (security policy, etc.) of the image forming system.

[0005] In an image forming device, if the necessary authority is not set for a role assigned to a user, the necessary authority is selected from a range of predetermined authority, and control is performed to make it possible to change the authority for that role.

[0006] However, when the authority settings are changed in each image forming device, differences in the authority settings between the image forming devices may arise, which may make it difficult to manage the authority settings of the multiple image forming devices that make up the image forming system.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide an information processing device and an information processing program that make it easier to manage authority settings for multiple image forming devices that make up an image forming system, compared to managing authority settings for each image forming device separately. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The information processing device of the first aspect has a processor, which accepts a change in authority in one of multiple image forming devices, each of which has authority set for each role assigned to a user, and when the change in authority in one image forming device is applied to another image forming device, if predetermined conditions are met, reflects the accepted change in authority in the other image forming device.

[0009] In the information processing device of the second aspect, in the information processing device according to the first aspect, the processor does not reflect the change in the authority of the role in the other image forming apparatuses if a predetermined condition is not satisfied.

[0010] An information processing device of a third aspect is the information processing device according to the second aspect, wherein, when a predetermined condition is not satisfied, the processor issues a notification that the condition is not satisfied.

[0011] An information processing device of a fourth aspect is an information processing device relating to any one of the first to third aspects, in which the processor further accepts a change in the role assigned to a user in one image forming device, and reflects the change in the role in the one image forming device in other image forming devices.

[0012] In a fifth aspect of the information processing device, in the information processing device according to the fourth aspect, when a change in role in one image forming device is applied to another image forming device, if a state in which the assigned user does not exist for the role in the other image forming device is reached, the processor notifies that the user does not exist.

[0013] An information processing device of the sixth aspect is an information processing device relating to any one of the first to fifth aspects, in which the predetermined condition is that in each image forming device, all permissions are not set to be concentrated in one of the roles.

[0014] An information processing device of a seventh aspect is an information processing device relating to any one of the first to sixth aspects, in which the processor does not change the authority of one image forming device if the change of authority does not satisfy conditions similar to predetermined conditions in the one image forming device.

[0015] An information processing device of an eighth aspect is an information processing device relating to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the processor, when no authority is set for a role in the other image forming device, acquires information indicating the functions of the one image forming device and each of the other image forming devices, and when the functions of the other image forming device correspond to the functions of the one image forming device, reflects the authority set for each role in the one image forming device to the other image forming device.

[0016] In a ninth aspect of the information processing device, in the information processing device according to the eighth aspect, when the functions of another image forming device are included in the functions of one image forming device, the processor determines whether or not the same conditions as predetermined conditions are met when the authority set for each role in the one image forming device is applied to the other image forming device, and if the same conditions as predetermined conditions are met, reflects the role and authority corresponding to the function of the other image forming device.

[0017] An information processing device of the 10th aspect is an information processing device according to the 8th or 9th aspect, in which, if the functions of another image forming device do not correspond to the functions of one image forming device, the processor notifies the user that authority has not been granted for the role in the other image forming device.

[0018] An information processing program of an eleventh aspect causes a computer to accept a change in authority in one image forming device among multiple image forming devices in which authority is set for each role assigned to a user, and when the change in authority in the one image forming device is applied to other image forming devices, if predetermined conditions are met, to reflect the accepted change in authority in the other image forming devices. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the information processing device of the first aspect and the information processing program of the eleventh aspect, it is possible to make it easier to manage the authority settings of multiple image forming devices that make up an image forming system, compared to managing the authority settings for each image forming device.

[0020] According to the information processing apparatus of the second aspect, it is possible to prevent vulnerability from occurring in the image forming apparatus.

[0021] According to the information processing device of the third aspect, it is possible to recognize that a vulnerability may occur in the image forming device.

[0022] According to the information processing device of the fourth aspect, it is possible to easily manage the roles assigned to users in multiple image forming devices that make up an image forming system, compared to managing the roles assigned to users for each image forming device.

[0023] According to the information processing device of the fifth aspect, it is possible to make the user aware of the existence of unused roles and to prompt the user to review the settings of roles and authorities.

[0024] According to the information processing device of the sixth aspect, in the case where a user to whom a role is assigned is misused, it is possible to prevent the spread of damage.

[0025] According to the information processing device of the seventh aspect, it is possible to prevent the erroneous change from spreading to the image forming system.

[0026] According to the information processing device of the eighth aspect, it is possible to more easily set roles and permissions for image forming devices that are added later, compared to when roles and permissions are set for each image forming device.

[0027] According to the information processing device of the ninth aspect, compared to setting roles and permissions for each image forming device, roles and permissions can be set more easily for an image forming device that is added later, even if the functions of the image forming device to which the changes are reflected and the image forming device from which the changes are made are different.

[0028] According to the information processing device of the tenth aspect, it is possible to recognize that there is an image forming device for which no role or authority has been set. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an information processing system according to each embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device according to each embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an information processing device according to each embodiment. [Figure 4] 5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating an example of authority information set in the image forming apparatus according to each embodiment. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of role information set in an image forming apparatus according to each embodiment. [Figure 6] 5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating an example of function information set in the image forming apparatus according to each embodiment. [Figure 7]10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of function information used to explain a change of authority according to each embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing authority according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for reflecting authority according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for changing authority according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of role information provided for explaining a role change according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing authority according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] [First embodiment] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0031] As an example, as shown in Fig. 1, an information processing system 1 is configured by connecting image forming apparatuses functioning as a copy machine 10A, a printer 10B, and a scanner 10C via a network N. In this embodiment, an information processing apparatus 10 is installed in each of the image forming apparatuses constituting the information processing system 1. However, this is not limiting. The information processing apparatus 10 may also be installed in a server (not shown).

[0032] The information processing device 10 functions as each image forming device, and also manages registered users, roles assigned to users, changes to the authority set for each role, and management of the authority in the information processing system 1. For example, when the information processing device 10 receives a change in authority for its own image forming device (hereinafter referred to as "its own device"), it reflects the received change in authority in other image forming devices (hereinafter referred to as "other devices"). In this embodiment, for example, the copy machine 10A will be described as the own device, and the printer 10B and scanner 10C as the other devices. Here, the own device is an example of "one image forming device," and the other devices are examples of "other image forming devices."

[0033] When reflecting a change in authority in the information processing device 10 itself and a change in authority in other devices, the information processing device 10 determines whether or not predetermined conditions such as a security policy are satisfied when the change in authority is applied. If the predetermined conditions are satisfied, the information processing device 10 controls to reflect the change in authority in the information processing device 10 itself and other devices, and manages the authority in the information processing system 1.

[0034] Here, the predetermined condition is, for example, when all of the authorities in the image forming apparatus to which the change is reflected are not consolidated into one of the roles set in the image forming apparatus by changing the authorities. In other words, the predetermined condition is when all of the authorities in the image forming apparatus are not set to one role by changing the authorities.

[0035] Next, the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0036] 2, the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a storage 14, an input unit 15, a monitor 16, and a communication interface (communication I / F) 17. The CPU 11, the ROM 12, the RAM 13, the storage 14, the input unit 15, the monitor 16, and the communication I / F 17 are interconnected by a bus 19. Here, the CPU 11 is an example of a processor.

[0037] The CPU 11 supervises and controls the entire information processing device 10. The ROM 12 stores various programs, data, etc., including the information processing program used in this embodiment. The RAM 13 is a memory used as a work area when various programs are executed. The CPU 11 performs a process of changing roles and permissions by expanding the programs stored in the ROM 12 into the RAM 13 and executing them. The storage 14 is, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a flash memory. The storage 14 may store an information processing program, etc. The input unit 15 is, for example, a touch panel that accepts character input, a keyboard, etc. The monitor 16 displays characters and images. The communication I / F 17 transmits and receives data.

[0038] Next, the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0039] 3, the information processing device 10 includes a reception unit 21, an acquisition unit 22, a determination unit 23, a reflection unit 24, and a notification unit 25. The CPU 11 executes an information processing program to function as the reception unit 21, the acquisition unit 22, the determination unit 23, the reflection unit 24, and the notification unit 25.

[0040] The reception unit 21 receives changes to the authority information and role information. Here, the authority information is information indicating the relationship between the roles set in each image forming apparatus shown in Fig. 4 as an example and the authorities set for the roles. The role information is information indicating the relationship between the users registered in each image forming apparatus shown in Fig. 5 as an example and the roles assigned to the users.

[0041] Specifically, the reception unit 21 receives instructions to change the authority related to the authority information input by the worker operating the image forming device, and instructions to change the role related to the role information input by the worker operating the image forming device.

[0042] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of authority information set in an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4 as an example, in this embodiment, SA (System Administrator) 1 and SA2 are set as roles in each image forming apparatus. For example, in a printer, SA1 is set with authority for print settings, and SA2 is set with all authority other than print settings. Similarly, in a scanner, SA1 is set with authority for document scanning settings, and SA2 is set with all authority other than document scanning settings. In a copy machine, SA1 is set with authority for print settings and document scanning settings, and SA2 is set with all authority other than print settings and document scanning settings. Note that in this embodiment, the authority information related to each image forming apparatus will be described as being stored in each image forming apparatus.

[0043] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of role information registered in an image forming apparatus according to this embodiment. As an example, as shown in FIG. 5, a, b, and d are registered as users of a printer, a and d are registered as users of a scanner, and a, b, c, and d are registered as users of a copier. In the printer, a and b are assigned the role SA1, and d is assigned the role SA2. Similarly, in the scanner, a is assigned the role SA1, and d is assigned the role SA2. In the copier, a, b, and c are assigned the role SA1, and d is assigned the role SA2. Note that in this embodiment, role information for each image forming apparatus will be described as being stored in each image forming apparatus.

[0044] The acquisition unit 22 acquires authority information, role information, and function information set from each image forming apparatus. Here, the function information is information indicating functions for which authority can be set and which can be executed in each image forming apparatus shown in Fig. 6 as an example.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of function information as functions of each image forming device. As shown in FIG. 6 as an example, in this embodiment, functions include print settings and document reading settings, and the print settings include tray settings and consumable settings. For example, a printer can set the authority for print settings, a scanner can set the authority for document reading settings, and a copier can set the authority for print settings and document reading settings. Note that in this embodiment, the function information related to each image forming device will be described as being stored in each image forming device.

[0046] The determination unit 23 determines whether a predetermined condition is satisfied when the change in authority information accepted by the acceptance unit 21 is applied to the image forming apparatus and other apparatuses. Furthermore, the determination unit 23 determines whether a user is assigned to a role set in the image forming apparatus when the change in role information accepted by the acceptance unit 21 is applied to the image forming apparatus and other apparatuses.

[0047] Here, the predetermined condition is, as described above, when changing the authority in the authority information, all of the authorities in the image forming device to which the change is reflected are not consolidated into any of the roles set in the image forming device.

[0048] The reflecting unit 24 reflects the change in the authority information applied in the own device to the other device. Specifically, when the change in the authority information is applied to the other device, the reflecting unit 24 reflects the change in the authority information changed in the own device to the other device if a predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0049] Furthermore, the reflection unit 24 does not reflect the change in the image forming apparatus itself or other apparatuses if predetermined conditions are not met in each image forming apparatus. Specifically, when the received change in the authority information is applied to the image forming apparatus itself, the reflection unit 24 does not change the authority information in the image forming apparatus itself if predetermined conditions are not met. Furthermore, when the received change in the authority information is applied to other apparatuses, the reflection unit 24 does not reflect the change in the authority information in the other apparatuses if predetermined conditions are not met.

[0050] When predetermined conditions are not satisfied in the own device and other devices, the notification unit 25 notifies that the predetermined conditions are not satisfied. Specifically, when a change in authority information is applied to the own device and other devices and the predetermined conditions are not satisfied, the notification unit 25 notifies that all authorities in the own device and other devices will be set to one role. Note that the notification according to this embodiment is sent to a pre-registered administrator of the own device and other devices.

[0051] For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when the reception unit 21 receives a request to change the tray setting authority from SA1 to SA2 in a copier as the device itself, the acquisition unit 22 acquires authority information related to the copier. The determination unit 23 uses the acquired authority information related to the copier to determine whether all authorities in the copier are set to SA2 when the tray setting authority is changed from SA1 to SA2. Here, in FIG. 7, a strikethrough next to an authority indicates an authority that has been deleted from a role, and an underline next to an authority indicates an authority that has been newly set to a role. That is, the strikethrough and underline in FIG. 7 indicate that the tray setting authority has been deleted from SA1 and set to SA2, and the authority has been changed.

[0052] 7, when the tray setting authority is changed from SA1 to SA2 in a copier, SA2 is granted authority other than consumable setting and document reading setting, and not all authority in the copier is set. Therefore, the determination unit 23 determines that the predetermined condition is met, and the reflection unit 24 changes the tray setting authority in the copier itself from SA1 to SA2.

[0053] Furthermore, in the copier, after a change is made in the copier itself, the acquisition unit 22 acquires authority information related to other devices to which the change can be applied. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 6, for the authority of the changed tray setting, authority information related to printers to which the change can be similarly set is acquired. The determination unit 23 determines whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied when the change in the authority of the tray setting made in the copier itself is applied to another device, a printer.

[0054] 7, when a change in tray setting authority from SA1 to SA2 is applied to a printer, authority other than consumable setting is granted to SA2, and not all authorities in the printer are set. Therefore, the determination unit 23 determines that the predetermined condition is met, and the reflection unit 24 changes the tray setting authority from SA1 to SA2 in the printer, which is another device.

[0055] Furthermore, when the authority for consumables settings is further changed in the copier, the determination unit 23 determines whether a predetermined condition is satisfied when the change in the authority for consumables settings is applied to another device, a printer. As shown in Figure 7, when the authority for consumables settings in the printer is further changed to SA2, all authorities in the printer are set to SA2, so SA2 does not satisfy the predetermined condition. Therefore, the determination unit 23 determines that the predetermined condition is not satisfied, and the notification unit 25 notifies the pre-registered administrator that all authorities in the printer may be set to SA2 by applying the change.

[0056] Next, the operation of the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing authority information according to this embodiment. The information processing shown in Fig. 8 is executed by the CPU 11 reading and executing an information processing program from the ROM 12 or the storage 14. The information processing shown in Fig. 8 is executed, for example, when an instruction to execute processing for changing authority information is input.

[0057] In step S101, the CPU 11 determines whether or not a change in the authority information has been received from the operator. If a change in the authority information has been received (step S101: YES), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S102. On the other hand, if a change in the authority information has not been received (step S101: NO), the CPU 11 waits until a change in the authority information is received.

[0058] In step S102, the CPU 11 acquires the authority information set in the own device.

[0059] In step S103, when the change in the authority information is applied, the CPU 11 determines whether the own device satisfies a predetermined condition. If the own device satisfies the predetermined condition (step S103: YES), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S104. On the other hand, if the own device does not satisfy the predetermined condition (step S103: NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S105.

[0060] In step S104, the CPU 11 applies the change in the authority information received from the operator and changes the authority information of the own device.

[0061] In step S105, the CPU 11 notifies the administrator that the device itself does not satisfy the predetermined conditions.

[0062] In step S106, the CPU 11 acquires, from the other devices constituting the information processing system 1, function information set in the other devices.

[0063] In step S107, CPU 11 uses the acquired function information to determine whether there is another device to which the change in authority information received from the worker can be applied. If there is another device to which the change in authority information can be applied (step S107: YES), CPU 11 proceeds to step S108. On the other hand, if there is no other device to which the change in authority information can be applied (step S107: NO), CPU 11 proceeds to step S110.

[0064] In step S108, the CPU 11 executes authority reflection processing, which will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

[0065] In step S109, CPU 11 determines whether the change has been reflected in all other devices to which the change can be applied. If the change has been reflected in all other devices (step S109: YES), CPU 11 proceeds to step S110. On the other hand, if the change has not been reflected in all other devices (if there are other devices to which the change has not been reflected) (step S109: NO), CPU 11 proceeds to step S108.

[0066] In step S110, the CPU 11 determines whether or not to end the process. If the process is to be ended (step S110: YES), the CPU 11 ends the information processing. On the other hand, if the process is not to be ended (step S110: NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S101 and determines whether or not a change in the authority information has been received from the operator.

[0067] Next, the authority reflection process will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the process of reflecting authority according to this embodiment. The authority reflection process shown in Fig. 9 is executed by the CPU 11 reading and executing an authority reflection program from the ROM 12 or the storage 14. The authority reflection process shown in Fig. 9 is executed, for example, when a change in authority information is received from a user and a device to which the change can be applied is detected.

[0068] In step S201, the CPU 11 acquires authority information set in other devices.

[0069] In step S202, when the change in authority information is applied to the detected other device, the CPU 11 determines whether the other device satisfies a predetermined condition. If the other device satisfies the predetermined condition (step S202: YES), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S203. On the other hand, if the other device does not satisfy the predetermined condition (step S202: NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S204.

[0070] In step S203, the CPU 11 transmits the change in the authority information received from the worker to the other devices, and reflects the change in the authority information in the other devices.

[0071] In step S204, the CPU 11 notifies the administrator that the other device does not satisfy the predetermined condition.

[0072] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to easily manage the authority settings of multiple image forming devices that make up an image forming system, compared to when authority settings are managed for each image forming device. [Second embodiment] In the first embodiment, a configuration in which a change in authority information received from an operator is reflected in another device has been described. In the present embodiment, a configuration in which authority information of the own device is reflected when authority information is not set in the other device will be described.

[0073] Note that the configuration of the information processing system according to this embodiment (see FIG. 1), the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 (see FIG. 2), and the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 (see FIG. 3) are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted. Also, an example of authority information (see FIG. 4), an example of role information (see FIG. 5), and an example of function information (see FIG. 6) according to this embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted. Also, an example of authority information (see FIG. 7) used to explain the change of authority according to this embodiment, and a flowchart showing an example of information processing (see FIG. 8) are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0074] The authority reflection process will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the process of reflecting authority according to this embodiment. The authority reflection process shown in Fig. 10 is executed by the CPU 11 reading and executing an authority reflection program from the ROM 12 or the storage 14. The authority reflection process shown in Fig. 10 is executed, for example, when a change in authority information is received from a user and a device to which the change can be applied is detected. Note that in Fig. 10, the same steps as those in the authority reflection process shown in Fig. 9 are assigned the same reference numerals as those in Fig. 9, and their description will be omitted.

[0075] In step S205, CPU 11 determines whether authority is set for the role in the other device using the authority information in the other device. If authority is set for the role (step S205: YES), CPU 11 proceeds to step S202. On the other hand, if authority is not set for the role (step S205: NO), CPU 11 proceeds to step S206.

[0076] In step S206, CPU 11 uses the function information to determine whether the same authority can be set in the own device and the other device and whether they have the same function. If they have the same function (step S206: YES), CPU 11 proceeds to step S207. On the other hand, if they do not have the same function (step S206: NO), CPU 11 proceeds to step S208.

[0077] In step S207, CPU 11 reflects the authority information set in the own device to the other device. Here, in this embodiment, if authority information is not set in the other device and the function of the own device corresponds to the function of the other device (includes the function of the other device), the authority information related to the function in the own device is reflected in the other device.

[0078] For example, if the own device and the other device are copiers, the authority information of the own device, the copier, is reflected in the other device, the copier. Also, if the own device is a copier and the other device is a printer, the copier includes a function of print setting authority that can be set in the printer. In other words, since the same print setting authority information as that of the copier can be set in the printer, the print setting authority information of the copier is reflected in the printer, and the same authority as the print setting authority information installed in the copier is set in the printer.

[0079] In step S208, CPU 11 determines whether the functions of its own device include the functions of other devices and whether some of the authority settings set in its own device can be set in other devices. If the functions of its own device include the functions of other devices (step S208: YES), CPU 11 proceeds to step S209. On the other hand, if the functions of its own device do not include the functions of other devices (step S208: NO), CPU 11 proceeds to step S211.

[0080] In step S209, CPU 11 determines whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied when authority information related to a function of its own device corresponding to a function of another device is applied to the other device. If the other device satisfies the predetermined condition (step S209: YES), CPU 11 proceeds to step S210. On the other hand, if the other device does not satisfy the predetermined condition (step S209: NO), CPU 11 proceeds to step S211.

[0081] In step S210, the CPU 11 reflects, in the other device, the authority information relating to the function of the own device corresponding to the function of the other device.

[0082] In step S211, the CPU 11 notifies the administrator that there is an image forming apparatus for which authority information has not been set.

[0083] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to set authority information for an image forming device that is added later more easily than when authority information is set for each image forming device. [Third embodiment] In the second embodiment, a configuration was described in which the authority information of the device itself is reflected when authority information is not set. In the present embodiment, a configuration will be described in which, when a change of a user registered in the device itself is received from an operator, the change of the user is reflected in other devices.

[0084] Note that the configuration of the information processing system according to this embodiment (see FIG. 1), the hardware configuration of the information processing device 10 (see FIG. 2), and the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 (see FIG. 3) are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted. Also, an example of authority information (see FIG. 4), an example of role information (see FIG. 5), and an example of function information (see FIG. 6) according to this embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted. Also, an example of authority information (see FIG. 7) used to explain the change of authority according to this embodiment, and a flowchart showing an example of authority reflection processing (see FIG. 9) are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0085] For example, as shown in FIG. 11 , when the accepting unit 21 accepts a change of the role of user b from SA1 to SA2 in a copier as the device itself, the acquiring unit 22 acquires role information registered in the copier. Using the acquired role information, the determining unit 23 determines whether or not there is a user assigned to SA1 when the role of user b is changed from SA1 to SA2. Here, in FIG. 11 , a strikethrough drawn on a registered user indicates that the role set for the user has been deleted, and an underline drawn on a user indicates that a new role has been set for the user. That is, the strikethrough and underline in FIG. 11 indicate that SA1 set for user b has been deleted, and SA2 has been newly set for user b, resulting in a change of role.

[0086] 11, when the role of user b is changed from SA1 to SA2 in the copy machine, SA1 is assigned to users a and c. Therefore, the determination unit 23 determines that there is a user assigned to the role, and the reflection unit 24 changes the role of user b from SA1 to SA2 in the copy machine.

[0087] Furthermore, in the copier, the acquisition unit 22 acquires role information of other devices after a change has been made in the local device. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 11, since user b is registered in the printer device, the acquisition unit 22 acquires role information of the printer device. When the change in the user role made in the local device is applied to the other device, that is, the printer device, the determination unit 23 determines whether or not there is a user assigned to the changed role.

[0088] 11, when a change in the user role from SA1 to SA2 is applied to a printer, there is a user assigned to SA1. Therefore, the determination unit 23 determines that there is a user assigned to the role, and the reflection unit 24 changes the role of user b from SA1 to SA2 in the printer, which is another device.

[0089] That is, when there is a user assigned to a role, the information processing device 10 reflects role information changed in the device itself in other devices.

[0090] Furthermore, when the role of user a is further changed from SA1 to SA2 in the copier, the determination unit 23 determines whether or not there is a user assigned to the role when the change in role of user a is applied to another device, the printer. As shown in Fig. 11, when the role of user a is further changed to SA2 in the printer, SA1 becomes a state in which no user is assigned to it. The reflection unit 24 changes the role of user b from SA1 to SA2 in the other device, the printer, and the notification unit 25 notifies the administrator that, as a result of the change, there is no user assigned to SA1 in the printer, and that the setting of the role information should be reviewed.

[0091] Next, the operation of the information processing device 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of processing for changing authority information according to this embodiment. The information processing shown in Fig. 12 is executed by the CPU 11 reading and executing an information processing program from the ROM 12 or the storage 14. The information processing shown in Fig. 12 is executed, for example, when an instruction to execute processing for changing authority information is input. Note that in Fig. 12, steps that are the same as those in the processing for changing authority information shown in Fig. 8 are assigned the same reference numerals as in Fig. 8, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0092] In step S111, the CPU 11 determines whether or not a change in the authority information has been received from the operator. If a change in the authority information has been received (step S111: YES), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S102. On the other hand, if a change in the authority information has not been received (step S111: NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S112.

[0093] In step S112, the CPU 11 determines whether a change in user and role has been received from the worker. If a change in user and role has been received (step S112: YES), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S113. On the other hand, if a change in user and role has not been received (step S112: NO), the CPU 11 proceeds to step S111 and waits until a change in authority information or role information is received from the worker.

[0094] In step S113, the CPU 11 acquires role information set in the own device.

[0095] In step S114, the CPU 11 applies the change in role information received from the worker to change the role information of the own device.

[0096] In step S115, the CPU 11 acquires role information set in the other devices.

[0097] In step S116, CPU 11 uses the role information set in the other devices to determine whether there are other devices to which the change in role information received from the worker can be applied. If there are other devices to which the change in role information can be applied (step S116: YES), CPU 11 proceeds to step S117. On the other hand, if there are no other devices to which the change in role information can be applied (step S116: NO), CPU 11 proceeds to step S110.

[0098] In step S117, the CPU 11 applies the change in role information received from the worker and changes the role information of the other devices.

[0099] In step S118, CPU 11 determines whether or not there is no user assigned to the changed role in the other device. If there is no user assigned to the changed role (step S118: YES), CPU 11 proceeds to step S119. On the other hand, if there is a user assigned to the changed role (step S118: NO), CPU 11 proceeds to step S110.

[0100] In step S119, the CPU 11 notifies the administrator that, as a result of applying the change to the role information, there are no users assigned to the changed role on other devices, and that the role settings should be reviewed.

[0101] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to easily manage the roles assigned to users in multiple image forming devices that make up an image forming system, compared to managing the roles assigned to users for each image forming device.

[0102] Although the present invention has been described above using the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments. Various modifications and improvements can be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and such modifications and improvements are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0103] In the above embodiment, the authority information of the device itself is reflected to other devices. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Role information registered in the device itself may be reflected to other devices.

[0104] In the above embodiment, a form has been described in which a pre-registered administrator is notified when a predetermined condition is not met. However, this is not a limitation. The operator operating the device may also be notified. For example, when a predetermined condition is not met, the notification unit 25 may notify the operator by displaying on the monitor 16 that the predetermined condition is not met.

[0105] In the above embodiment, if a changed role is not assigned to a user, the administrator is notified of the existence of a role that has not been assigned to the user. However, this is not limiting. The notification may be sent to an operator operating the device. For example, if a role that has not been assigned to a user exists, the notification unit 25 may notify the operator by displaying on the monitor 16 that a role that has not been assigned to the user exists.

[0106] In the above embodiment, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes, for example, a general-purpose processor (e.g., a CPU: Central Processing Unit) and a dedicated processor (e.g., a GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, an ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, an FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, a programmable logic device, etc.).

[0107] Furthermore, the operations of the processor in each of the above embodiments may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of the operations of the processor is not limited to the order described in each of the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0108] Although the present embodiment has been described with reference to a configuration in which the information processing program is installed in storage, the present invention is not limited to this. The information processing program according to the present embodiment may be provided in a format recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. For example, the information processing program according to the present invention may be provided in a format recorded on an optical disc such as a CD (Compact Disc)-ROM or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)-ROM. The information processing program according to the present embodiment may be provided in a format recorded on a semiconductor memory such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory or a memory card. The information processing program according to the present embodiment may also be acquired from an external device via a communication line connected to the communication I / F. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1. Information Processing Systems 10. Information processing equipment 10A Copy machine 10B printer machine 10C scanner 11 CPU 12 ROM 13 RAM 14. Storage 15 Input section 16 monitors 17 Communication I / F 19 Bus 21 Reception 22 Acquisition Department 23 Judgment section 24 Reflection section 25 Notification Department

Claims

1. a processor, the processor comprising: accepts a change of authority in one of a plurality of image forming apparatuses in which authority is set for each role assigned to a user; When the change in the authority in the one image forming apparatus is applied to another image forming apparatus, if a predetermined condition is satisfied in which all authorities are not collectively set to any one of the roles in each of the image forming apparatuses, the change in the authority that has been received is reflected in the other image forming apparatuses. Information processing device.

2. The processor: If the predetermined condition is not satisfied, the change in the role authority is not reflected in the other image forming apparatus. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The processor: If the predetermined conditions are not met, a notification is given to the effect that the conditions are not met. The information processing device according to claim 2 .

4. The processor: further accepting a change of the role assigned to the user in the one image forming apparatus; The change in the role of the one image forming apparatus is reflected in the other image forming apparatus. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The processor: When the change of the role in the one image forming apparatus is applied to the other image forming apparatus, if a state in which a user assigned to the role in the other image forming apparatus does not exist, a notification is given to the effect that the user does not exist. The information processing device according to claim 4 .

6. The processor: If the change of authority does not satisfy the predetermined condition in the one image forming apparatus, the change of authority is not performed for the one image forming apparatus. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The processor: If authority is not set for the role in the other image forming apparatus, information indicating the functions of the one image forming apparatus and the other image forming apparatus is acquired; When the function of the other image forming apparatus is included in the function of the one image forming apparatus, the authority set for each role in the one image forming apparatus is reflected in the other image forming apparatus. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The processor: If the function of the other image forming apparatus is included in the function of the one image forming apparatus, determining whether or not the predetermined condition is satisfied when the authority set for each role in the one image forming apparatus is applied to the other image forming apparatus; If the predetermined condition is satisfied, the role and the authority related to the function of the other image forming apparatus included in the function of the one image forming apparatus are reflected. The information processing device according to claim 7 .

9. The processor: If the function of the other image forming apparatus is not included in the function of the one image forming apparatus, a notification is given that authority has not been granted for the role in the other image forming apparatus.

9. The information processing device according to claim 7 or 8.

10. On the computer, accepts a change of authority in one of a plurality of image forming apparatuses in which authority is set for each role assigned to a user; When the change in the authority in the one image forming apparatus is applied to another image forming apparatus, if a predetermined condition is satisfied in which all authorities are not collectively set to any one of the roles in each of the image forming apparatuses, the change in the authority that has been received is reflected in the other image forming apparatuses. An information processing program for executing tasks.

Images