Coupon management device and information processing program

Abstract

To prevent the normal use of a coupon from being restricted while restricting the reuse thereof.SOLUTION: Creation means creates a coupon code including a project identifier of a coupon project for which an issuance condition was found to be met by search means; an issuer identifier determined by first determination means; and a coupon identifier. When an inquirer determined by second determination means does not have a prescribed relationship with an issuer identified by the issuer identifier included in the notified coupon code or when the notified coupon code is not recorded as unused by recording means, decision means decides the allowance / rejection of the benefit provision of the coupon project identified with the project identifier included in the notified coupon code at least as the rejection. The recording means updates records so as to confirm that the coupon code notified upon inquiry is not unused depending on a fact that the allowance of the benefit provision has responded by response means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a coupon management device and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] Regarding the technology of restricting the reuse of coupons, various proposals have been made, such that each coupon issued by a certain issuer can be identified by a coupon code, and whether each coupon has been used is managed in association with the coupon code. However, when multiple issuers each independently issue coupons, the coupon codes may match among multiple coupons. And in such a case, for example, when a coupon issued by Company A is erroneously used by Company B, even if Company B tries to use another coupon identified by the same coupon code issued by Company B, the use will be restricted. That is, in this case, the proper use of the coupon will be restricted. Due to such circumstances, there has been a demand for coupon management that restricts the reuse of coupons while not restricting proper use.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a coupon management device and an information processing program capable of performing coupon management that restricts the reuse of coupons while not restricting proper use.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The coupon management device of this embodiment comprises a first determination means, a search means, a generation means, a recording means, a second determination means, a decision means, and a response means. The first determination means determines the inquirer when it receives an inquiry regarding coupon issuance. The search means searches for coupon plans for which the issuance conditions are met in relation to the inquiry. The generation means generates a coupon code that includes a plan identifier that identifies the coupon plan for which the issuance conditions have been determined by the search means, an issuer identifier that identifies the inquirer determined by the first determination means, and a coupon identifier that identifies each individual coupon to be issued for the said coupon plan. The recording means records the coupon code generated by the generation means in a way that allows for confirmation of whether it has been used or not. The second determination means determines the inquirer when it receives an inquiry regarding coupon use accompanied by notification of a coupon code. The decision means determines whether to allow or refuse the provision of benefits related to the coupon plan identified by the plan identifier contained in the coupon code notified at the time of inquiry, if the inquirer, as determined by the second determination means, does not have a predetermined relationship with the issuer identified by the issuer identifier contained in the coupon code notified at the time of inquiry, or if the coupon code notified at the time of inquiry is not recorded by the recording means as unused. The response means responds to the inquiry with the decision result made by the decision means. The recording means then updates the record to confirm that the coupon code notified at the time of inquiry is not unused, in response to the response means indicating that the provision of benefits is allowed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] A block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a coupon management system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] A block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the coupon server and POS terminal in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This diagram schematically represents the structure of a single data record included in the planning database shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] This diagram schematically represents the structure of data records included in the management table shown in Figure 2. [Figure 5] A sequence diagram illustrating the steps involved in coupon issuance when a transaction is processed at a single POS terminal. [Figure 6] A flowchart illustrating a specific example of the search process. [Figure 7] A diagram illustrating the coupon code system. [Figure 8] A sequence diagram illustrating the steps involved in the process of using a coupon. [Figure 9] A flowchart for the verification process. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] An example of an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the coupon management system 1 according to this embodiment. The coupon management system 1 is a system in which a coupon server 100 and multiple POS terminals 200 communicate via a communication network 2, and the coupon server 100 manages the issuance and use of coupons at multiple POS terminals 200.

[0008] Each of the multiple POS terminals 200 belongs to one of several terminal groups TGA. Each of the multiple terminal groups TGA is used in stores operated by different companies. Furthermore, the multiple POS terminals 200 belonging to a single terminal group TGA may be concentrated in one store operated by one company, or they may be distributed among multiple stores operated by one company.

[0009] The coupon server 100 is an information processing device that performs information processing for providing a coupon management service, which manages the issuance and use of coupons at the POS terminal 200, as a cloud service via the communication network 2. In other words, the coupon server 100 corresponds to a coupon management device. The POS terminal 200 is an information processing device that performs processing related to store transactions, such as registering the details of those transactions or processing payments.

[0010] Communication network 2 can use the internet, VPN (virtual private network), LAN (local area network), public communication network, mobile communication network, etc., individually or in appropriate combinations. As an example, communication network 2 can be used by combining a LAN and the internet.

[0011] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the coupon server 100 and the POS terminal 200. The coupon server 100 includes a processor 101, a main storage unit 102, an auxiliary storage unit 103, a communication unit 104, and a transmission line 105, etc. The processor 101 and the main storage unit 102, auxiliary storage unit 103, and communication unit 104 are able to communicate with each other via the transmission line 105.

[0012] By connecting the processor 101, the main memory unit 102, and the auxiliary memory unit 103 with a transmission line 105, a computer is configured to perform information processing for controlling the coupon server 100. The processor 101 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 101 performs information processing to control each part in order to realize various functions as a coupon server 100, in accordance with information processing programs such as the operating system and application programs.

[0013] The main memory unit 102 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. The main memory unit 102 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 102 stores a portion of the information processing program described above in the read-only memory area. The main memory unit 102 may also store data necessary for the processor 101 to perform processing to control each part in the read-only memory area or the rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 102 uses the rewritable memory area as a work area for the processor 101.

[0014] The auxiliary storage unit 103 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. The auxiliary storage unit 103 can utilize, for example, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), an HDD (hard disk drive), an SSD (solid state drive), or various other well-known storage devices. The auxiliary storage unit 103 stores data used by the processor 101 in performing various processes and data generated by the processing performed by the processor 101. The auxiliary storage unit 103 may also store the above-mentioned information processing program. In this embodiment, the auxiliary storage unit 103 stores the coupon management program PRA, which is one of the information processing programs. The coupon management program PRA is an application program that describes the procedures for the management process described later. A portion of the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage unit 103 is used as an area for storing the planning database DBA and the management table TAA. The planning database DBA is a database for managing plans for sales promotions using coupons (hereinafter referred to as coupon plans). The management table TAA is a data table used to manage each issued coupon individually.

[0015] The communication unit 104 performs communication processing for data communication via the communication network 2. The communication unit 104 can use, for example, an existing communication device for the internet. The transmission path 105 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc., and transmits data and control signals exchanged between the connected components.

[0016] Now, as the hardware of the coupon server 100, for example, a general-purpose server device can be used. And the transfer of the coupon server 100 is generally carried out with the coupon management program PRA stored in the auxiliary storage unit 103. However, the hardware in a state where the coupon management program PRA is not stored in the auxiliary storage unit 103, or in a state where an application program of the same kind but different version is stored in the auxiliary storage unit 103, and the coupon management program PRA can be transferred individually. And according to the operation of any operator, the coupon server 100 may be configured by writing the coupon management program PRA into the auxiliary storage unit 103. The transfer of the coupon management program PRA can be carried out by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, a semiconductor memory, etc., or by communication via a network.

[0017] The POS terminal 200 includes a processor 201, a main storage unit 202, an auxiliary storage unit 203, an input unit 204, a display unit 205, a sound unit 206, a fixed scanner 207, a handy scanner 208, a currency receiving unit 209, a settlement unit 210, a printer 211, a communication unit 212, a transmission path 213, etc. The processor 201 and the main storage unit 202, the auxiliary storage unit 203, the input unit 204, the display unit 205, the sound unit 206, the fixed scanner 207, the handy scanner 208, the currency receiving unit 209, the settlement unit 210, the printer 211, and the communication unit 212 are communicable via the transmission path 213.

[0018] By connecting the processor 201, the main storage unit 202, and the auxiliary storage unit 203 with the transmission path'213, a computer for performing information processing for controlling the POS terminal 200 is configured. The processor 201 corresponds to the central part of the computer described above. The processor 201 performs information processing to control each part in order to realize various functions as a POS terminal 200, in accordance with information processing programs such as the operating system and application programs.

[0019] The main memory unit 202 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer described above. The main memory unit 202 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 202 stores a portion of the information processing program described above in the read-only memory area. The main memory unit 202 may also store data necessary for the processor 201 to perform processing to control each part in the read-only memory area or the rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 202 uses the rewritable memory area as a work area for the processor 201.

[0020] The auxiliary storage unit 203 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer described above. The auxiliary storage unit 203 can utilize, for example, an EEPROM, HDD, SSD, or various other well-known storage devices. The auxiliary storage unit 203 stores data used by the processor 201 in performing various processes and data generated by the processing performed by the processor 201. The auxiliary storage unit 203 may also store the information processing programs described above. In this embodiment, the auxiliary storage unit 203 stores the transaction processing program PRB and the agent program PRC, which are one of the information processing programs. The transaction processing program PRB is an application program that describes the procedure for transaction processing, which will be described later. The agent program PRC mediates between the transaction processing and the management processing at the coupon server 100 in order to apply the coupon service provided by the coupon server 100 to the transactions processed by the transaction processing program PRB.

[0021] The input unit 204 receives various instructions from the operator. The input unit 204 can use well-known input devices such as touch sensors, key switches, and keyboards, either individually or in combination. An example of an input device included in the input unit 204 is a touch sensor provided on a touch panel.

[0022] The display unit 205 performs various display operations to notify the operator of various information. The display unit 205 can use well-known display devices, such as liquid crystal displays and light-emitting devices such as LED lamps, either individually or in combination. One of the display devices included in the display unit 205 is, for example, the display device provided on the touch panel described above. The sound unit 206 outputs sounds for various announcements and alarms. The sound unit 206 can use various well-known sound devices, such as a speech synthesis device and a buzzer, either individually or in combination.

[0023] The fixed scanner 207 has a reading window facing the operator. The fixed scanner 207 captures an image of the product held in front of the reading window and recognizes the barcode information represented by the barcode through image processing. The fixed scanner 207 then outputs the barcode information to the processor 201. The fixed scanner 207 can also utilize other types of well-known devices that optically read barcodes using the reflection of laser light. Furthermore, the fixed scanner 207 can also utilize a type of well-known device that has the function of identifying products using object recognition technology from the image of the product itself obtained by capturing the product. The handheld scanner 208 is held in the operator's hand and optically reads barcodes placed opposite the reader. The handheld scanner 208 outputs the barcode information represented by the read barcode to the processor 201.

[0024] The currency receiving unit 209 counts the value of coins inserted through the coin slot and stores them in an internal storage compartment. The currency receiving unit 209 then discharges the coins stored in the storage compartment into a coin tray via a coin discharge port. The currency receiving unit 209 counts the value of banknotes inserted through the banknote slot and stores them in an internal storage compartment. The currency receiving unit 209 then discharges the banknotes stored in the storage compartment through a banknote discharge port. The banknote discharge port holds the discharged banknotes with a portion of them exposed to the outside.

[0025] The payment unit 210 reads data recorded on payment cards such as credit cards, prepaid cards, and electronic money cards. The payment unit 210 also writes data to payment cards. The payment unit 210 is equipped with reading devices that correspond to IC reading, magnetic reading, and proximity communication reading of credit cards. The reading device for IC reading reads data stored in the IC (integrated circuit) provided on the credit card through communication via electrical contacts. The reading device for magnetic reading reads data magnetically recorded on the magnetic stripe formed on the surface of the credit card using a magnetic head. The reading device for proximity communication reading reads data stored in the IC (integrated circuit) provided on the credit card through wireless communication such as NFC (near field communication).

[0026] Printer 211 prints images of receipts, invoices, sales slips, or coupons onto receipt paper. Printer 211 then ejects the receipt paper with the printed images from the receipt output slot to the outside. The communication unit 212 performs communication processing for data communication over the communication network 2. The communication unit 212 can use, for example, an existing communication device for a LAN. The transmission line 213 includes an address bus, a data bus, and control signal lines, and transmits data and control signals exchanged between the connected parts.

[0027] The hardware of the POS terminal 200 can, for example, be the same as that of an existing POS terminal of the same type. Generally, the transfer of the POS terminal 200 is carried out with the transaction processing program PRB and agent program PRC stored in the auxiliary storage unit 203. However, the hardware may be transferred with the transaction processing program PRB and agent program PRC not stored in the auxiliary storage unit 203, or with a different version of the same type of application program stored in the auxiliary storage unit 203, and the transaction processing program PRB and agent program PRC may be transferred separately. Furthermore, the POS terminal 200 may be configured by writing the transaction processing program PRB and agent program PRC to the auxiliary storage unit 203 in response to an operation by any worker. Alternatively, hardware in which one of the transaction processing program PRB and agent program PRC is not stored in the auxiliary storage unit 203, or in which a different version of an application program of the same type as one of the transaction processing program PRB and agent program PRC is stored in the auxiliary storage unit 203, may be transferred individually to the hardware in which the transaction processing program PRB and agent program PRC that is not stored in the auxiliary storage unit 203 are transferred. Then, the POS terminal 200 may be configured by writing the transaction processing program PRB or agent program PRC to the auxiliary storage unit 203 in response to the operation of any operator. The transfer of the transaction processing program PRB and agent program PRC can be carried out by recording them on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication over a network.

[0028] In this embodiment, the POS terminal 200 may be a face-to-face type operated primarily by a store employee, a semi-self-service type operated by both a store employee and a customer, or a fully self-service type operated primarily by a customer. In the case of a semi-self-service type, the above components may be distributed across two separate units. Furthermore, multiple types may be mixed among multiple POS terminals 200. However, in the following description, it will be assumed that the POS terminal 200 is a fully self-service type.

[0029] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating one structure of a data record REA included in the planning database DBA. The project database DBA is a collection of data records REA, each associated with a promotional project using coupons. Each data record REA includes fields AA, FAB, FAC, FAD, FAE, FAF, and FAG.

[0030] Field FAA is set with the identifier of the associated promotional campaign (hereinafter referred to as the campaign identifier). Field FAB is set with the campaign category code, which indicates the category of the company that planned the associated promotional campaign. For example, the campaign category code is defined as follows: "12" for retailers, "13" for manufacturers, and so on. Field FAC is set with the reward category code, which indicates the category of the benefit granted for coupon use in the associated promotional campaign. For example, the reward category code is defined as follows: "0" for discount from the individual item price, "1" for discount from the individual item price, "2" for special price application as the individual item price, "3" for discount from the subtotal using points, "4" for discount from the subtotal using gift certificates, "5" for discount from the subtotal, and "6" for discount from the subtotal. Field FAD is set with the amount data of the benefit granted in the associated promotional campaign. The amount data represents the amount of the benefit granted. If the benefit is a discount, the amount data represents the discount amount. Furthermore, if the benefit is a discount, the grant amount data represents the discount rate. Field FAE is set with the identifier of the company providing the associated promotional offer (hereinafter referred to as the company identifier). Field FAF is set with issuance condition data representing the conditions for issuing coupons related to the associated promotional offer (hereinafter referred to as the issuance conditions). Field FAG is set with provision condition data representing the conditions under which the provision of benefits related to the associated promotional offer is permitted (hereinafter referred to as the provision conditions). Note that data record REA may contain one or more fields into which arbitrary data other than these fields is set. The planning database DBA is updated as needed by the processor 101 in response to requests from any information and communication terminal, not shown in Figure 1, for example.

[0031] Figure 4 schematically shows the structure of the data record REB included in the management table TAA. The management table TAA is a collection of data records REB associated with each issued coupon. Each data record REB contains the fields FBA and FBB.

[0032] The FBA field contains the coupon code, which is defined as described below, for the associated coupon. The FBB field contains flag data (hereinafter referred to as the unused flag) indicating whether the associated coupon is unused or not. The management table TAA is updated as needed by processor 101 through the management process described later.

[0033] Next, we will explain the operation of the coupon management system 1 configured as described above. Figure 5 is a sequence diagram illustrating the steps involved in coupon issuance when a transaction is processed by a single POS terminal 200. During the period in which the coupon management service is provided, the processor 101 on the coupon server 100 executes management processing based on the coupon management program PRA. In addition, the processor 201 on the POS terminal 200, which is in an operational state that allows customer use, separately executes transaction processing based on the transaction processing program PRB and agent processing based on the agent program PRC.

[0034] After the customer picks out the items they wish to purchase from the products displayed in the store, they select an unused POS terminal 200 located in the store's checkout area or elsewhere. The customer then performs a predetermined operation on the selected POS terminal 200 to register the picked items as purchased items.

[0035] As ACT101, processor 201 executes a registration process to register the purchased items in response to the above operation. This registration process may be the same as the process performed by existing fully self-service POS terminals. Once a predetermined operation to declare the completion of the registration of the purchased items is performed, processor 201 terminates the registration process and proceeds to ACT102.

[0036] As ACT102, processor 201 calculates the price for all purchased goods registered during the registration process and performs accounting processing to settle the price using a payment method of choice. This accounting processing may be the same as that performed by existing fully self-service POS terminals. Once processor 201 has completed the settlement of the price, it terminates the accounting processing and proceeds to ACT103. As ACT103, processor 201 makes a coupon query to the agent process. At this time, processor 201 passes predetermined information necessary for coupon searching to the agent process, such as a list of purchased items, payment amount, and payment method.

[0037] During agent processing, processor 201 waits for a coupon query to be made, and when a coupon query is made through transaction processing as described above, it proceeds to ACT201. As ACT201, processor 201 makes a coupon query to coupon server 100. For example, processor 201 sends query data to coupon server 100 from communication unit 212 to communication network 2, representing the information handed over from transaction processing and the corporate identifier of the company operating the terminal group TGA to which POS terminal 200 belongs, in a form predetermined as part of the coupon management service specifications.

[0038] When the above inquiry data is transmitted to the coupon server 100 via the communication network 2, the communication unit 104 receives the inquiry data. The processor 101 then determines that a coupon inquiry has been made and proceeds to ACT 301 in the management process. The following explanation of the management process is performed in response to the above coupon inquiry, and when referred to as POS terminal 200, it refers to the POS terminal 200 that made the coupon inquiry.

[0039] As ACT301, processor 101 performs a search process for available coupons. Processor 101 searches among the promotional plans associated with each data record REA in the plan database DBA for a promotional plan whose issuance conditions, as represented by the issuance condition data set in field FAF, are valid for the transaction being queried.

[0040] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of the search process. As ACT311, processor 101 selects the promotional plan to be reviewed (hereinafter referred to as the target plan). For example, processor 101 selects one of the promotional plans associated with each data record REA in the plan database DBA as the target plan.

[0041] As ACT312, processor 101 verifies whether the company making the inquiry matches the company providing the target plan. For example, processor 101 compares the company identifier included in the inquiry data with the company identifier set in field FAE of the data record REA associated with the target plan. If the two company identifiers match, processor 101 determines that the company making the inquiry matches the company providing the target plan. If processor 101 can determine that they match in this way, it proceeds to ACT313 as YES. At this point, processor 101 has determined the company making the inquiry to be the company identified by the company identifier included in the inquiry data. Thus, by processor 101 executing information processing based on the coupon management program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as the first determination means.

[0042] Alternatively, for each individual POS terminal 200, the relationship with the company operating the terminal group TGA to which the POS terminal 200 belongs can be managed, and after identifying the POS terminal 200 making the inquiry, the company operating the terminal group TGA to which that POS terminal 200 belongs can be determined. In this case, for example, a data table associating the identifier of the POS terminal 200 with the company identifier of the company operating the terminal group TGA to which the POS terminal 200 belongs can be stored in the auxiliary storage unit 103, and the query data can include the identifier of the POS terminal 200 instead of the company identifier.

[0043] As ACT313, processor 101 checks whether the coupon issuance conditions for the target project are met. For example, processor 101 checks whether the issuance conditions represented by the issuance condition data set in the field FAF of the data record REA associated with the target project are met, taking into account the information contained in the query data. Note that the specific processing for this check can be the well-known processing. If it is determined that the issuance conditions are met, processor 101 determines YES and proceeds to ACT314.

[0044] As ACT314, the processor 101 determines the coupon identifier. The processor 101 determines the coupon identifier according to predetermined rules so as not to overlap with coupon identifiers already determined for the target plan. In this embodiment, the coupon identifier is a 7-digit decimal number sequence.

[0045] As ACT315, processor 101 determines the coupon code. Processor 101 determines the coupon code as a code according to a predetermined system. The system for the coupon code may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the administrator of the coupon server 100 or the creator of the coupon management program PRA. Thus, by having processor 101 perform information processing based on the coupon management program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a generation means.

[0046] Figure 7 is a diagram showing the coupon code system applied in this embodiment. The coupon code is a 25-digit decimal number. Processor 101 sets the first and second digits of the coupon code as flags, using the project classification code set in field FAB of the data record REA associated with the target project. Processor 101 sets the third to ninth digits of the coupon code as flags, using the project identifier set in field FAA of the data record REA associated with the target project. Processor 101 sets the tenth digit of the coupon code as flags, using the benefit classification code set in field FAC of the data record REA associated with the target project. Processor 101 sets the eleventh to fifteenth digits of the coupon code as flags, using the grant amount data set in field FAD of the data record REA associated with the target project. Processor 101 sets the sixteenth and seventeenth digits of the coupon code as flags, using the company identifier set in field FAE of the data record REA associated with the target project. Processor 101 sets the eighteenth to twenty-fourth digits of the coupon code as flags, using the coupon identifier determined in ACT314. Processor 101 sets a check digit for the 25th digit of the coupon code, corresponding to the sequence of digits 1 through 24.

[0047] As ACT316, processor 101 generates an image of the coupon face (hereinafter referred to as the coupon image) corresponding to the target promotion. Processor 101 includes a barcode representing the coupon code (hereinafter referred to as the coupon barcode) in the coupon image. Processor 101 may also include another type of code that makes the coupon code machine-readable, such as a two-dimensional code, in the coupon image instead of the coupon barcode. Processor 101 then stores the image data representing the coupon image in the auxiliary storage unit 103.

[0048] Once processor 101 has finished generating the coupon image, it proceeds to ACT317. If processor 101 cannot confirm that the company making the inquiry matches the company providing the target promotion, it will determine NO at ACT312, skip ACT313 to ACT316, and proceed to ACT317. Also, if processor 101 cannot confirm that the issuance conditions are met, it will determine NO at ACT313, skip ACT314 to ACT316, and proceed to ACT317.

[0049] In ACT317, processor 101 checks if there are any unselected promotional plans as target plans. If there are any such promotional plans, processor 101 determines it is YES and repeats ACT311 onwards. When processor 101 executes ACT311 for the second time or later, it selects a different promotional plan than the one selected as the target plan when ACT311 was executed previously. Thus, processor 101 repeats the process from ACT312 onwards, sequentially changing the target plan. If processor 101 determines it is NO because it could not confirm that there are any unselected promotional plans in ACT317, it terminates the search process and proceeds to ACT302 in Figure 5. The processor 101 searches for promotional promotions that meet the issuance conditions through the search process described above. Thus, by having the processor 101 perform information processing based on the coupon management program PRA, the computer with the processor 101 as its central component functions as a search tool.

[0050] As ACT302, processor 101 responds to the POS terminal 200 with the results of the search process. For example, processor 101 sends response data in a predetermined format for the response of search results from communication unit 104 to communication network 2 addressed to POS terminal 200. If there is image data stored in auxiliary storage unit 103 during the search process, processor 101 includes that image data in the above response data.

[0051] When the response data is transmitted to the POS terminal 200 via the communication network 2, the communication unit 212 receives the response data. The processor 201 then determines through agent processing that a response has been made and proceeds to ACT 202. As ACT202, processor 201 passes the search results notified by management processing to transaction processing as a response to the inquiry in ACT103 from transaction processing. For example, if the response data received by communication unit 212 as described above includes image data, processor 201 passes the image data to transaction processing.

[0052] During transaction processing, processor 201 proceeds to ACT104 upon receiving the result response. As ACT104, processor 201 checks whether a coupon should be issued. Processor 201 determines that a coupon should be issued if image data is handed over from the agent processing, and proceeds to ACT105.

[0053] As ACT105, processor 201 issues a coupon by printing the coupon image represented by the image data received from agent processing to printer 211. After this, processor 201 proceeds to ACT106. If image data has not been received from agent processing, processor 201 cannot confirm that a coupon should be issued, so it determines NO in ACT104, skips ACT105, and proceeds to ACT106.

[0054] As ACT106, the processor 201 generates a receipt image representing the transaction result and issues a receipt by printing this receipt image to the printer 211. The customer receives the issued receipt and any coupons, if any, and the transaction is complete.

[0055] Now, in agent processing, processor 201, after providing a result response as ACT202, proceeds to ACT203. As ACT203, processor 201 sends cache information to coupon server 100 via communication unit 212 to communication network 2. Processor 201 uses transaction information, for example, that has been generated for managing processed transactions through transaction processing and stored in auxiliary storage unit 203, as cache information. Processor 201 may also generate cache information by performing processes on the above transaction information, such as deleting some of the processing contained therein, such as personal information, or by adding predetermined information.

[0056] When cache information is transmitted to the coupon server 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 104, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 303. As ACT303, processor 101 performs a save process. For example, processor 101 stores the cache information received this time in the auxiliary storage unit 103, while leaving the previously received and stored cache information intact. As a result, coupon server 100 accumulates and stores cache information related to transactions involving coupon issuance, making it possible to perform post-verification of the status of coupon issuance.

[0057] As ACT304, processor 101 responds to POS terminal 200 with the result of the saving process. Upon receiving the result response regarding the saving process, the agent processing in processor 201 proceeds to ACT204.

[0058] As ACT204, processor 201 notifies coupon server 100 of coupon receipt. In other words, processor 201 sends notification data in a predetermined format to notify coupon receipt to coupon server 100 via communication unit 212 to communication network 2. When notification data for coupon redemption is transmitted to the coupon server 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 104, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT 305.

[0059] As ACT305, processor 101 performs recording processing to manage issued coupons. For example, processor 101 sets the coupon code generated by ACT301 in field FBA and sets the unused flag in FBB to indicate that it is unused. It generates a new data record REB for all coupon codes generated by ACT301 and adds these data records REB to the management table TAA. Thus, by having processor 101 perform information processing based on the coupon management program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a recording means. As ACT306, processor 101 responds to POS terminal 200 as a result response to coupon receipt notification, indicating the completion of the recording process.

[0060] Now, when a customer uses a coupon issued as described above in a subsequent transaction, they hold the coupon barcode over the fixed scanner 207 or handheld scanner 208 within a predetermined coupon reading period. The period is set as a portion of the execution period of the registration process as ACT101 in Figure 5. However, the period may be set as appropriate by, for example, the administrator of the POS terminal 200 or the creator of the transaction processing program PRB, such as including a portion of the execution period of the accounting process as ACT102.

[0061] In transaction processing, when a coupon barcode is read by the fixed scanner 207 or the handheld scanner 208, the processor 201 stores the coupon barcode in the main storage unit 202 or the auxiliary storage unit 203. When multiple separate coupon barcodes are read sequentially by the fixed scanner 207 or the handheld scanner 208, the processor 201 stores each of these coupon barcodes in the main storage unit 202 or the auxiliary storage unit 203, respectively.

[0062] Then, with the coupon barcode stored in the main storage unit 202 or auxiliary storage unit 203, the processor 201 completes the registration process as ACT101 in Figure 5 and proceeds to ACT111 in Figure 8. Figure 8 is a sequence diagram illustrating the steps involved in the process of using a coupon. As ACT111, processor 201 notifies agent processing of the coupon code of the coupon the customer intends to use. In other words, processor 201 extracts the coupon code from the coupon barcode stored in, for example, the main memory unit 202 or auxiliary memory unit 203 and passes the coupon code to agent processing.

[0063] During agent processing, when processor 201 receives notification of a coupon code, it proceeds to ACT211. As ACT211, processor 201 requests the coupon server 100 to inquire about the use of the coupon. For example, processor 201 sends request data to the coupon server 100 from communication unit 212 to communication network 2, expressing the coupon code handed over from the transaction processing and the corporate identifier of the company operating the terminal group TGA to which POS terminal 200 belongs, in a form predetermined as part of the coupon management service specifications.

[0064] When the above request data is transmitted to the coupon server 100 via the communication network 2, the communication unit 104 receives the inquiry data. The processor 101 then proceeds to ACT321 in the management process. As ACT321, processor 101 performs a verification process to check whether the use of the coupon is permitted.

[0065] Figure 9 is a flowchart of the verification process. As ACT331, processor 101 checks whether the provision of benefits in the promotional plan related to the coupon the customer is trying to use is permitted. For example, processor 101 searches for a data record REA in the plan database DBA in which the plan identifier set in field FAA matches the 3rd to 9th digits of the coupon code included in the request data. If processor 101 finds the corresponding data record REA, it checks whether the provision of benefits is permitted in light of the provision conditions data set in field FAG of that data record REA. If processor 101 confirms that the provision of benefits is permitted, it determines YES and proceeds to ACT332.

[0066] As ACT332, processor 101 verifies whether the company operating the terminal group TGA to which POS terminal 200 belongs is a company that is permitted to use the coupon to be used (hereinafter referred to as an permitted company). For example, processor 101 verifies whether the company identifier of the company operating the terminal group TGA to which POS terminal 200 belongs and the company identifiers set in the 16th and 17th digits of the coupon code included in the request data have a predetermined relationship. In other words, processor 101 verifies whether the company to which the coupon is to be used and the company that issued the coupon to be used have a predetermined relationship. If both company identifiers have a predetermined relationship, processor 101 determines that it is a permitted company and verifies YES, and proceeds to ACT333. For example, processor 101 considers the case where both company identifiers match as having a predetermined relationship. However, the specific processing for this determination may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the administrator of the coupon server 100 or the creator of the coupon management program PRA. For instance, the processor 101 may consider a case where the two company identifiers are different but are pre-associated with each other as belonging to a predetermined relationship. Furthermore, the definition of a "pre-defined relationship" may be set individually for each promotional campaign. Here, processor 101 determines the inquirer making the inquiry regarding coupon usage as the company operating the terminal group TGA to which POS terminal 200 belongs. Thus, by having processor 101 perform information processing based on the coupon management program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a second determination means.

[0067] As ACT333, processor 101 checks whether the coupon to be used is unused. For example, processor 101 searches for a data record REB in the management table TAA in which the coupon code included in the request data is set in the field FBA. If processor 101 finds the corresponding data record REB, it checks the unused flag set in its field FBB. If the unused flag indicates that the coupon is unused, processor 101 determines that it is unused and YES, and proceeds to ACT334. As ACT334, processor 101 decides to allow the use of the coupon. With this, processor 101 terminates the confirmation process.

[0068] On the other hand, if processor 101 cannot confirm in ACT331 that the conditions for providing the benefit are acceptable, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT335. If processor 101 cannot find the corresponding data record REA, it cannot confirm that the conditions for providing the benefit related to the promotional plan for the coupon the customer is trying to use are acceptable, and therefore also determines NO in ACT331.

[0069] As ACT335, processor 101 determines the reason why the promotional campaign is invalid. For example, if processor 101 cannot confirm that the provision of the benefit is permitted because the usage conditions are not met, it determines the reason why the usage conditions were not met. Possible reasons include, for example, "the target product is not registered," "it is before the start of the available period set as a usage condition," "it is after the end of the available period set as a usage condition," "it is not the specified usage timing set as a usage condition," "it is not a store that is eligible for use as set as a usage condition," or "the promotional campaign is invalid." Also, for example, if processor 101 cannot find the relevant data record REA, it is assumed that the reason is "the promotional campaign is not registered." Also, for example, if processor 101 does not match any of the above assumed situations, it is assumed that the reason is "unexpected error." As ACT336, processor 101 sets the invalidation reason determined by ACT335 as the error reason.

[0070] On the other hand, in ACT332, if the processor 101 cannot confirm that the two company identifiers have a predetermined relationship, and therefore cannot confirm that the requester is an authorized company, it determines NO and proceeds to ACT337. As ACT337, processor 101 sets "Enterprise mismatch" as the error reason.

[0071] On the other hand, in ACT333, if the unused flag does not indicate an unused state and it cannot be determined that the data is unused, the processor 101 determines NO and proceeds to ACT338. The processor 101 also determines NO if it cannot determine that the data is unused if it cannot find the data record REB in which the coupon code included in the request data is set in field FBA. As ACT338, processor 101 determines the reason why it could not be determined that the item was unused. Possible reasons include, for example, "different code system," "coupon code not registered," or "already used."

[0072] As ACT339, processor 101 sets the reason determined by ACT338 as the error reason. Then, after the processor 101 sets the error reason in either ACT336, ACT337, or ACT339, it proceeds to ACT340 in all cases. As ACT340, processor 101 rejects the coupon's use. Then processor 101 terminates the confirmation process.

[0073] Thus, if the inquirer does not have a predetermined relationship with the issuer, the processor 101 proceeds from ACT332 to ACT337 and then to ACT340, or if the coupon code is not recorded as unused, it proceeds from ACT333 to ACT338 and then to ACT340, thereby determining at least a rejection in these two cases. In this way, by the processor 101 executing information processing based on the coupon management program PRA, the computer with the processor 101 as its central component functions as a decision-making means.

[0074] After completing the verification process described above as ACT321 in Figure 8, processor 101 proceeds to ACT322. As ACT322, processor 101 checks whether it has determined through the confirmation process that the use of the coupon should be permitted. If it has determined that it should be permitted, processor 101 determines YES and proceeds to ACT323.

[0075] As ACT323, processor 101 notifies POS terminal 200 that the coupon can be used as a result response to a request for confirmation regarding the use of the coupon. For example, processor 101 sends response data in a predetermined form to POS terminal 200 from communication unit 104 to communication network 2. Processor 101 includes the benefit category code and grant amount data set in fields FAC and FAD of data record REA found in ACT331 in Figure 9 into the above response data. Thus, by processor 101 executing information processing based on the coupon management program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a response means.

[0076] When the response data is transmitted to the POS terminal 200 via the communication network 2, the communication unit 212 receives the response data. The processor 201 then determines through agent processing that a response has been made and proceeds to ACT 212. As ACT212, processor 201, in response to the notification in ACT111 from the transaction processing, passes the reward category code and grant amount data included in the response data to the transaction processing.

[0077] During transaction processing, when processor 201 receives notification that the coupon can be used, it proceeds to ACT112. As ACT112, processor 201 performs processing to provide the benefit identified by the benefit category code and grant amount data handed over from agent processing as described above. For example, if the benefit category represented by the benefit category code is "discount from subtotal" and the grant amount represented by the grant amount data is "50", processor 201 will perform processing to deduct 50 yen from the subtotal. Also, if the benefit category represented by the benefit category code is "discount from subtotal" and the grant amount represented by the grant amount data is "3%", processor 201 will perform processing to deduct 3% from the subtotal.

[0078] Meanwhile, in agent processing, after completing ACT212, processor 201 proceeds to ACT213 after accounting processing is performed in transaction processing. As ACT213, processor 201 sends cache information from communication unit 212 to communication network 2, destined for coupon server 100. This process may be similar to ACT203 in Figure 5, for example. When the cache information is transmitted to the coupon server 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 104, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT324 in Figure 8. As ACT324, processor 101 performs a save process. This process may be similar to ACT303 in Figure 5, for example. As a result, coupon server 100 stores cache information related to transactions involving coupon use, making it possible to perform post-verification of the status of coupon use. In Figure 8, the processor 101, designated as ACT325, responds to the POS terminal 200 with the result of the saving process.

[0079] Now, if the verification process in ACT321 determines that the coupon should not be used, then ACT322 will determine NO, and the process will proceed to ACT326. As ACT326, processor 101 sends an error notification to POS terminal 200 as a result response to a request for confirmation regarding coupon usage. For example, processor 101 sends response data in a predetermined format for error notification from communication unit 104 to communication network 2 addressed to POS terminal 200. Processor 101 includes an error code representing the reason for the error, set in ACT336, ACT337, or ACT338 in Figure 9, in the above response data. Thus, by processor 101 executing information processing based on the coupon management program PRA, the computer with processor 101 as its central component functions as a response means and a notification means.

[0080] When the response data is transmitted to the POS terminal 200 via the communication network 2, the communication unit 212 receives the response data. The processor 201 then determines through agent processing that a response has been made and proceeds to ACT 214. As ACT214, processor 201 passes the error code included in the response data to the transaction processing as a response to the notification in ACT111 from the transaction processing.

[0081] During transaction processing, if processor 201 receives an error notification, it proceeds to ACT113. As ACT113, processor 201 performs error processing to notify the customer that the scanned coupon is unusable. The type of error processing to be performed may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the administrator of the coupon server 100 or the creator of the coupon management program PRA. As error processing, processor 201 may, for example, display an error screen on display unit 205 that shows an error message corresponding to the reason for the error represented by the handed-over error code. As error processing, processor 201 may, for example, turn on or blink an alarm lamp included in display unit 205. As error processing, processor 201 may, for example, output an alarm sound or voice message from sound unit 206. Processor 201 may perform only one of these error processing methods, or a combination of several methods.

[0082] The correspondence between the error reason and the error message displayed on the error screen is expected to be defined as follows, for example. The former is the error reason, and the latter is the error message. However, the specific message to be displayed may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the administrator of the coupon server 100 or the creator of the coupon management program PRA.

[0083] "Eligible product not registered": "This coupon cannot be used. Please check if the product you wish to use the coupon for is included." "The validity period set as a condition of use has not yet begun" or "The validity period set as a condition of use has ended": "This coupon cannot be used. Please check the validity period on the coupon." "This coupon cannot be used because it does not meet the specified usage timing set in the terms of use." "This store is not one of the designated stores for use": "This coupon cannot be used. Please check the store logo on the coupon." "The promotional offer has been invalidated" or "The promotional offer has not been registered": "This coupon cannot be used. This coupon is invalid." "Unexpected Error": "This coupon cannot be used. Please check the coupon details again." "Company mismatch": "This coupon cannot be used. Please check the store logo on the coupon." "The code system is different" or "The coupon code is not registered": "This coupon cannot be used because it is not registered." "Used": "This coupon has already been used and is therefore unavailable."

[0084] In this embodiment, the processor 201 notifies a predetermined monitoring terminal (not shown in Figure 1) for certain predetermined error reasons for each POS terminal 200. Specifically, the processor 201 sends predetermined notification data to the monitoring terminal via the communication unit 212 to the communication network 2, indicating that an error has occurred regarding coupon usage. The monitoring terminal is, for example, an information processing terminal used by a monitor to monitor the operational status of the POS terminal 200. Upon receiving an error notification, the monitoring terminal displays information to inform the monitor of the error. This allows the monitor to provide appropriate support to customers regarding coupon usage errors. The error reasons for which the monitoring terminal is notified are expected to be reasons that are difficult for customers to understand. For example, these might include "promotional offer is invalid," "promotional offer is not registered," "unexpected error," "incorrect code system," and "coupon code is not registered." However, the error reasons for which the monitoring terminal is notified may be determined as appropriate by, for example, the administrator of the coupon server 100 or the creator of the coupon management program PRA.

[0085] A monitoring terminal is, for example, a terminal installed in a store where a POS terminal 200 is installed, such as a so-called attendant terminal. However, a monitoring terminal may also be, for example, a terminal installed in a department that oversees multiple stores of a single company, such as a headquarters terminal, or a terminal installed in a management center that handles management operations for multiple companies. When notifications are sent via a monitoring terminal, the POS terminal 200 may be kept in a pending state until a predetermined confirmation operation is performed by the monitor, and an error screen may be displayed on the POS terminal 200 once it is confirmed that the confirmation operation has been performed.

[0086] Meanwhile, in agent processing, after completing ACT214, processor 201 proceeds to ACT215 after accounting processing is performed in transaction processing. As ACT215, processor 201 sends cache information from communication unit 212 to communication network 2, destined for coupon server 100. This process may be similar to ACT203 in Figure 5, for example. When the cache information is transmitted to the coupon server 100 via the communication network 2 and received by the communication unit 104, the processor 101 proceeds to ACT327 in Figure 8. As ACT327, processor 101 performs a save operation. This operation may be similar to, for example, ACT303 in Figure 5. In Figure 8, the processor 101, as ACT328, responds to the POS terminal 200 with the result of the saving process.

[0087] As described above, the coupon server 100 constructs a coupon code that includes a coupon identifier to identify each individual coupon, as well as a company identifier to identify the company that issued the coupon, and manages whether each coupon code is unused or not. Thus, even if different companies set coupon identifiers individually, it is possible to manage whether each of multiple coupons identified by the same coupon identifier is unused or not. For this reason, it is possible to manage coupons in a way that restricts the reuse of coupons without restricting their legitimate use.

[0088] Furthermore, if the coupon server 100 rejects the use of a coupon, it determines the reason and notifies the POS terminal 200. Upon receiving the notification, the POS terminal 200 performs error processing to inform the customer of the notified reason, which is why the coupon cannot be used. This makes it easy and reliable for customers to understand why their coupon was rejected.

[0089] This embodiment can be modified in various ways as follows: Alternatively, the transaction processing program PRB and the agent program PRC may be integrated, and the processor 201 may execute transaction processing and agent processing as a series of operations.

[0090] Each function realized by processor 101 or processor 201 through information processing can also be partially or entirely realized by hardware that performs non-program-based information processing, such as logic circuits. Furthermore, each of the above functions can also be realized by combining the above-mentioned hardware, such as logic circuits, with software control.

[0091] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 1...Coupon management system, 2...Communication network, 100...Coupon server, 101,201...Processor, 102,202...Main memory unit, 103,203...Auxiliary memory unit, 104,212...Communication unit, 105,213...Transmission line, 200...POS terminal, 204...Input unit, 205...Display unit, 206...Sound unit, 207...Fixed scanner, 208...Handheld scanner, 209...Currency receiving unit, 210...Payment unit, 211...Printer.

Claims

1. When an inquiry regarding coupon issuance is received, a first determination means is used to determine the person making the inquiry, A search method for searching for coupon promotions whose issuance conditions are met in relation to the aforementioned inquiry, A generation means for generating a coupon code that includes a project identifier that identifies a coupon project for which the issuance conditions have been met by the search means, an issuer identifier that identifies the inquirer determined by the first determination means, and a coupon identifier that identifies each individual coupon to be issued for the said coupon project. A recording means for recording the coupon code generated by the generation means in a way that allows for verification whether it has been used or not, When an inquiry regarding coupon usage is received accompanied by a coupon code notification, a second determination means is used to determine the person making the inquiry, A determination means that determines whether to allow or refuse the provision of benefits related to the coupon plan identified by the plan identifier contained in the coupon code notified in the aforementioned inquiry, if the inquirer determined by the second determination means does not have a predetermined relationship with the issuer identified by the issuer identifier contained in the coupon code notified in the aforementioned inquiry, or if the coupon code notified in the aforementioned inquiry is not used and is not recorded by the recording means, at least as a refusal. A response means that responds to the aforementioned inquiry with the determination result by the determination means, It is equipped with, The recording means updates the record in such a way that it cannot be confirmed that the coupon code notified during the inquiry is unused, in response to the response that the provision of the benefit is permitted by the response means. Coupon management device.

2. The first determination means receives an inquiry from a terminal and determines the inquirer as the company using the terminal that made the inquiry. The second determination means receives an inquiry from a terminal and determines the inquirer to be a company using the terminal that made the inquiry. The coupon management device according to claim 1.

3. If the inquirer determined by the second determination means cannot be confirmed to have a predetermined relationship with the issuer identified by the issuer identifier included in the coupon code notified during the inquiry, or if the recording means cannot be confirmed to have recorded the coupon code notified during the inquiry as unused, a notification means to notify the inquirer that the provision of benefits based on the coupon code notified during the inquiry is refused. The coupon management device according to claim 1, further comprising:

4. The notification means notifies the requesting party of an error code indicating that it cannot confirm that there is a predetermined relationship with the issuer identified by the issuer identifier included in the coupon code notified during the inquiry, or that it cannot confirm that the coupon code notified during the inquiry is recorded by the recording means as unused. The coupon management device according to claim 3.

5. Computers, When an inquiry regarding coupon issuance is received, a first determination means is used to determine the person making the inquiry, A search method for searching for coupon promotions whose issuance conditions are met in relation to the aforementioned inquiry, A generation means for generating a coupon code that includes a project identifier that identifies a coupon project for which the issuance conditions have been met by the search means, an issuer identifier that identifies the inquirer determined by the first determination means, and a coupon identifier that identifies each individual coupon to be issued for the said coupon project. A recording means for recording the coupon code generated by the generation means in a way that allows for verification whether it has been used or not, When an inquiry regarding coupon usage is received accompanied by a coupon code notification, a second determination means is used to determine the person making the inquiry, A determination means that determines whether to allow or refuse the provision of benefits related to the coupon plan identified by the plan identifier contained in the coupon code notified in the aforementioned inquiry, if the inquirer determined by the second determination means does not have a predetermined relationship with the issuer identified by the issuer identifier contained in the coupon code notified in the aforementioned inquiry, or if the coupon code notified in the aforementioned inquiry is not used and is not recorded by the recording means, at least as a refusal. A response means that responds to the aforementioned inquiry with the determination result by the determination means, To make it function, and, The recording means updates the record in such a way that it cannot be confirmed that the coupon code notified during the inquiry is unused, in response to the response that the provision of the benefit is permitted by the response means. Information processing program.

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