Information processing device, information processing method, and computer program

Abstract

To easily generate a work schedule table in which circumstances of an employee hiring side are considered.SOLUTION: An information processing device includes: demand schedule information acquisition means for acquiring demand schedule information that is a schedule of work required by a user; supply schedule information acquisition means for acquiring supply schedule information that is a schedule of work desired by a worker; allocation means for allocating the supply schedule information to the demand schedule information; adjustment means for adjusting the supply schedule information allocated by the allocation means based on the demand schedule information; and display control means for displaying the supply schedule information adjusted by the adjustment means on a predetermined display unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a computer program.

Background Art

[0002] A technique for automatically generating work schedules for multiple employees is known (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In such a technique, since the work schedule is generated based on the wishes regarding work from multiple employees, the circumstances of the side that employs the multiple employees are not sufficiently considered.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and an object thereof is to easily generate a work schedule in consideration of the circumstances of the side that employs employees.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To achieve the above object, one aspect of the present invention is demand schedule information acquisition means for acquiring demand schedule information that is a schedule of work required by a user, supply schedule information acquisition means for acquiring supply schedule information that is a schedule of work desired by a worker, assignment means for assigning the supply schedule information to the demand schedule information, adjustment means for adjusting the supply schedule information assigned by the assignment means based on the demand schedule information, A display control means that displays the supply schedule information adjusted by the adjustment means on a predetermined display unit, It is an information processing device.

[0007] Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention is an information processing method and a computer program corresponding to the above-mentioned information processing apparatus. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to easily generate a work schedule that takes into account the circumstances of the employer. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating the outline of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the configuration of a shift management system. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of a server hardware configuration. [Figure 4] This block shows the functional configuration of the server. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of user terminals and worker terminals. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the server's processing flow. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing the processing flow at the user's terminal. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing the processing flow at the worker terminal. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of the screen display of a shift management system. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of the screen display of a shift management system. [Figure 11] This figure shows an example of the screen display of a shift management system. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of the screen display of a shift management system. [Figure 13] This figure shows an example of the screen display of a shift management system. [Figure 14] This is a diagram showing the outline of the second embodiment. [Figure 15] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server. [Figure 16] This is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the server.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] (First Embodiment) <Outline> Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the outline of this embodiment (first embodiment). In FIG. 1, a shift management system for performing shift management of workers working in a convenience store or the like in this embodiment is shown. In general shift management, the user assigns work to the desired shifts submitted by the workers. In this embodiment, a shift management system that can assign desired shifts to the work of the user (model shift) will be described. Specifically, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, it is assumed that a model shift is provided in advance from the headquarters. Then, the server 1 transmits it to each base (store) such as convenience store (Store A), convenience store (Store B), etc. At each base, the user (for example, a franchise owner or a store manager, etc.) performs an operation (shift management operation) of assigning the above-mentioned work shifts submitted by the workers to the model shift obtained from the server 1. As a result, the desired shifts do not become excessive, so unnecessary labor costs can be suppressed while appropriate staffing can be performed for the necessary work.

[0011] A user is all persons who act on behalf of the business owner for matters regarding the workers of the business owner, the business operator, or other matters related to the business. Employers include, for example, business owners, directors, department heads, section chiefs, factory managers, and store managers. However, in this embodiment, we will mainly describe an example where the employer is a store manager who manages the work shifts of employees at a convenience store or similar establishment.

[0012] A worker is a person who is employed by a business or office, regardless of the type of occupation, and who is paid wages or other compensation. While workers include, for example, full-time employees, part-time workers, and temporary workers, this embodiment primarily describes examples where non-regular workers such as part-time workers are the target of the definition of workers. In this embodiment, the term "worker" also includes entities to whom certain labor tasks are entrusted, such as "outsourcing" or "contract work." Furthermore, a worker can also be considered a provider of labor.

[0013] A shift schedule is a management sheet that shows the employer's duties and the employee's work preferences for specific days and time slots. Shift schedules are typically presented in a table format.

[0014] A preferred shift is information about work submitted by an employee. This includes work days (days of the week), work hours (start time, end time), etc. It may also include work location, work area, and work time slots.

[0015] A model shift is information about tasks predetermined by the user. Examples of tasks include, for example, cashiering and stocking shelves in a convenience store, and kitchen and serving duties in a restaurant. Generally, the expected daily sales and customer numbers at each location often differ between weekdays and weekends. Therefore, for example, model shifts for weekdays and weekends can be prepared in advance, allowing the appropriate model shift to be used on the corresponding day. Furthermore, model shifts can be set considering conditions such as those listed below, in addition to the aforementioned weekday and weekend conditions. • Schedule information (e.g., weekdays, weekends, public holidays, etc.) • Climate information (e.g., weather, temperature, humidity, etc.) • Location information (e.g., distance from the nearest station, residential area, nearby competitor locations, competitor stores, etc.) • Event information (e.g., whether an event is being held, genre, etc.)

[0016] In this embodiment, the user (store manager) obtains the model shift described later from headquarters, but is not limited to this, and the user may create the model shift themselves. In this case, it is not necessary for Server 1 to obtain the model shift from headquarters. Furthermore, each branch may create a customized model shift (a branch-specific model shift) based on the model shift obtained from headquarters, for example, by using the above conditions. The details of this embodiment will be described below.

[0017] <System Configuration> Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of a shift management system. The shift management system consists of a server 1, a user terminal 2 (demand-side terminal), worker terminals 3-1 to 3-n (where n is an integer greater than or equal to 1) (supply-side terminals), etc., all connected via a network N. Network N can be, for example, the internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), or a VPN (Virtual Private Network).

[0018] Server 1 is the server (information processing device) that manages the entire shift management system. For example, Server 1 acquires user information (demand-side information; information about users who demand labor), model shifts, etc., transmitted from User Terminal 2. Examples of employer information include information about the employer's sales, information about its locations, information about the types of work and job titles of employees (hereinafter referred to as "work") such as kitchen staff and waitstaff, information about employees, information about the employer's organization itself, and information about the organization's management. Furthermore, Server 1 acquires worker information (supply-side information; information on the labor supply side consisting of n workers who supply labor) regarding workers (labor suppliers) provided from worker terminal 3. Examples of worker information include preferred shift information (shift schedule), personal information of the worker, ID, and password. Furthermore, Server 1 assigns the desired shift to the model shift in response to instructions sent from User Terminal 2. Furthermore, Server 1 adjusts for any imbalance between labor supply and demand that may arise as a result of assigning desired shifts to the model shift, in response to instructions sent from User Terminal 2. Specifically, Server 1 corrects the imbalance between labor supply and demand by adjusting desired shifts to match the model shift. Furthermore, Server 1 controls the display on the user terminal 2 to show (notify) the results of the adjustments made to desired shifts when correcting the imbalance between labor supply and demand. Specifically, Server 1 transmits information indicating the results of the adjustments to desired shifts (hereinafter referred to as "adjustment result information") to the user terminal 2. Details of these processes performed by Server 1 will be described later.

[0019] User terminal 2 is an information processing device such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet. User terminal 2 is operated by the employer, store manager, team leader, etc., who are the ones who require labor. For example, user terminal 2 transmits the entered user information to server 1. User terminal 2 also displays the adjustment result information transmitted from server 1 on the user interface. Details of these processes performed by user terminal 2 will be described later. Note that user terminal 2 may consist of multiple terminals for each user (user terminal 2-1, ... user terminal 2-n; n is a natural number greater than or equal to 1), but unless otherwise specified, they will be referred to as user terminal 2.

[0020] The worker terminal 3 is an information processing device such as a personal computer, smartphone, or tablet. The worker terminal 3 is operated by workers (any person employed by a business or office and paid wages, regardless of occupation) and employees (e.g., regular employees, part-time employees, temporary employees, etc.) who supply labor. For example, the worker terminal 3 transmits the entered worker information to the server 1. The worker terminal 3 also displays information regarding desired shift adjustments transmitted from the server 1 on its user interface and transmits the information entered on the user interface to the server 1. Details of these processes performed by the worker terminal 3 will be described later. Note that worker terminal 3 is assumed to have multiple terminals for each worker (worker terminal 3-1, ... worker terminal 3-m; m is a natural number greater than or equal to 1), but unless otherwise specified, it will be referred to as worker terminal 3.

[0021] <Hardware Configuration> Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of Server 1 according to this embodiment. Server 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a bus 14, an input / output interface 15, an output unit 16, an input unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20.

[0022] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to the program stored in the ROM 12 or the program loaded from the storage unit 18 into the RAM 13. The RAM 13 also stores data necessary for the CPU 11 to execute various processes. The CPU 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are interconnected via a bus 14. An input / output interface 15 is also connected to this bus 14.

[0023] The input / output interface 15 is connected to an output unit 16, an input unit 17, a storage unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20. The output unit 16 consists of a display, speakers, etc., and outputs various information as images and sounds. The input unit 17 consists of a keyboard, mouse, etc., and inputs various information. The storage unit 18 consists of a hard disk, DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), etc., and stores various data. The communication unit 19 communicates with other devices via a network N, including the Internet.

[0024] The drive 20 is appropriately equipped with removable media 21, which may consist of a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or semiconductor memory. Programs read from the removable media 21 by the drive 20 are installed in the storage unit 18 as needed. The removable media 21 can also store various types of data stored in the storage unit 18, just like the storage unit 18.

[0025] Although not shown in the diagram, user terminal 2 and worker terminal 3 have hardware configurations similar to those shown in Figure 3.

[0026] <Functional Configuration> ≪Server 1 Functional Configuration≫ Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of Server 1. In the CPU 11 of Server 1, the following functions operate: Model shift acquisition unit 31, Model shift generation unit 32, Desired shift acquisition unit 33, Assignment unit 34, Adjustment unit 35, Labor result information acquisition unit 36, Display control unit 37, etc.

[0027] The model shift acquisition unit 31 acquires the user information described above from the user terminal 2. The user information acquired by the model shift acquisition unit 31 is stored and managed in the user information DB 41. Furthermore, the model shift acquisition unit 31 acquires the model shift from the headquarters (a terminal not shown) shown in Figure 1. Note that the model shift may also be generated by the model shift generation unit 32, which will be described later. In this case, it is not necessary for the model shift acquisition unit 31 to acquire the model shift from the headquarters.

[0028] The model shift generation unit 32 generates model shifts for each location based on the user information acquired by the model shift acquisition unit 31. Specifically, the model shift generation unit 32 generates model shifts for each location based on, for example, past sales figures and sales targets for each company, region, and location, past customer target figures, and the number of workers required for each situation (peak season, normal season, etc.). The model shift generation unit 32 can generate model shifts for each business process. The model shifts generated by the model shift generation unit 32 are stored and managed in the model shift DB 42. Specific examples of model shifts generated by the model shift generation unit 32 will be described later. Furthermore, users may use the model shift obtained from headquarters as is, in which case the generation of model shifts for each location by the model shift generation unit 32 is not required.

[0029] The shift preference acquisition unit 33 acquires worker information, including the shift preferences, transmitted from each of the worker terminals 3-1 to 3-n. The worker information acquired by the shift preference acquisition unit 33 is stored and managed in the worker information database 43. Furthermore, the shift preference acquisition unit 33 acquires the shift preferences of each worker transmitted from each of the worker terminals 3-1 to 3-n. The shift preferences generated by the shift preference acquisition unit 33 are stored and managed in the shift preference database 44. Furthermore, the desired shift may be generated by a desired shift generation unit (not shown) based on the worker information described above. Here, the desired shift can be generated for each task. Specifically, the desired shift generation unit (not shown) generates the desired shift according to the worker's preferences and their labor supply capacity. The worker's labor supply capacity is evaluated based on their past experience, work performance ability, proficiency, etc.

[0030] The allocation unit 34 assigns desired shifts to model shifts. When assigning desired shifts to model shifts, the allocation unit 34 can take into account information regarding the labor supply capacity of workers. The allocation unit 34 can also assign desired shifts to model shifts for each task. Here, the allocation unit 34 can either automatically perform the process of assigning a desired shift to a model shift, or it can perform the process of assigning a desired shift to a model shift based on an assignment instruction from the user. As an automatic assignment process, for example, the assignment unit 34 can compare the time of a predetermined task in a model shift with the time of a predetermined worker's desired shift and prioritize assigning the combination with the most overlapping time slots (automatic assignment pattern 1). Furthermore, the allocation unit 34 can prioritize allocation based on desired working hours when the time slots overlap. For example, it is preferable to prioritize allocation to those with shorter working hours (automatic allocation pattern 2). Alternatively, the assignment unit 34 may automatically assign workers based on their skill information, experience information, etc., which are stored in the storage unit 18 in advance (automatic assignment pattern 3). The patterns described above are just examples; it is recommended to create various patterns and combine them for automatic assignment. <Automatic assignment pattern 1> Kitchen staff for the model shift: 9 am to 5 pm Worker A's preferred shift: 10:00 to 12:00 (overlapping time slot: 2 hours) Worker B's preferred shift: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM (overlapping time: 8 hours) → "Worker B," whose shifts often overlap, will be assigned to kitchen duties. <Automatic assignment pattern 2> Kitchen staff for the model shift: 9 am to 5 pm Worker A's preferred shift: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Preferred working hours: 9 hours) Worker B's preferred shift: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Desired working hours: 11 hours) → "Worker A," who has fewer desired working hours, is assigned to kitchen duties. <Automatic assignment pattern 3> Kitchen staff for the model shift: 9 am to 5 pm Worker A's preferred shift: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Kitchen work experience: 3 years) Worker B's preferred shift: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Kitchen work experience: 1 year) → "Worker A," who has extensive work experience, is assigned to kitchen duties. Furthermore, if the assignment process is carried out based on an assignment instruction from the employer, the assignment instruction may be for one worker, for multiple workers, or for all workers. Furthermore, if the assignment process is carried out based on an assignment instruction from the user, the assignment instruction may target one task, multiple tasks, or all tasks.

[0031] The adjustment unit 35 makes adjustments to correct any imbalance between labor supply and demand that may arise as a result of the allocation process by the allocation unit 34. Specifically, the adjustment unit 35 corrects the imbalance by adjusting the desired shifts to match the model shifts. The adjustment of the desired shifts is done by reducing or increasing the time periods indicated by the desired shifts to match the time periods indicated by the model shifts. For example, if on a particular date worker A's preferred shift (9:00 to 17:00) is assigned to "hall work" (10:00 to 12:00) on the employer's model shift schedule, an imbalance will occur where worker A will be unable to work during the 9:00 to 10:00 and 12:00 to 17:00 time slots, even though they originally wanted to work during those periods. In this case, for example, in response to instructions from the employer, the adjustment unit 35 will make adjustments to extend worker A's working hours beyond 10:00 to 12:00. The results of the adjustment by the adjustment unit 35 are communicated to the user as adjustment result information (displayed on the user terminal 2).

[0032] Furthermore, among the adjustments made by the adjustment unit 35, reducing the time slot indicated by the desired shift means narrowing the time slot indicated by the initial desired shift (for example, 9:00 to 17:00) to a limited time slot (for example, 13:00 to 17:00). In contrast, extending the time slots indicated by the desired shift means that, because the initial desired shifts are insufficient to fill the model shifts, the time slots indicated by the desired shifts are increased to match the time slots indicated by the model shifts.

[0033] In this case, if there are not enough desired shift times within the model shift time slot, the adjustment unit 35 performs control to notify the user. That is, if there are not enough workers for the work planned by the user in the model shift, the adjustment unit 35 performs control to notify the user. The adjustment unit 35 then proposes to the worker in question that a new time slot be added to the time slot indicated by the desired shift (a so-called "help request"). Specifically, the adjustment unit 35 generates information regarding the proposal to add a new time slot to the time slot indicated by the desired shift (hereinafter referred to as "help information") and controls the system to notify the labor supply side. Specific examples of imbalances between labor supply and demand resulting from the assignment process will be described later. Furthermore, specific examples of the user interface displayed on the user terminal 2 when generating help information will also be described later.

[0034] The labor result information acquisition unit 36 ​​acquires labor result information that shows the results of labor supply by the labor supplier. Labor result information can include text data and image data (moving images and still images). For example, it may include check comments and record photos of the finished product by the base manager (store manager) after cleaning work has been performed. Furthermore, the work performance information can include the degree to which the model shift was fulfilled relative to the desired shift. The "degree of fulfillment" can be expressed in units such as a percentage. For example, if the degree of fulfillment is "70%", it means that the employee was able to work 70% of their desired shifts. The labor result information acquired by the labor result information acquisition unit 36 ​​is stored and managed in the labor result information DB 45 and used for worker evaluation. For example, the quality of work, such as whether the work was completed in a short amount of time, is evaluated based on the labor result information. The results of the worker evaluation are used for feedback, reflection in salary, etc.

[0035] The display control unit 37 controls the transmission of various information to the user terminal 2 and the worker terminal 3, respectively. For example, the display control unit 37 controls the display of various information on the display units of the user terminal 2 and the worker terminal 3, based on the adjustment result information generated by the adjustment unit 35. The display control unit 37 also controls the transmission of help information generated by the adjustment unit 35 to the worker terminal 3. Furthermore, the display control unit 37 controls the transmission of result information acquired by the work result information acquisition unit 36 ​​to the user terminal 2.

[0036] ≪Functional Configuration of User Terminal 2≫ Figure 5(A) is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of user terminal 2. The control unit (not shown) of the user terminal 2 functions as follows: information acquisition unit 51, information management unit 52, transmission control unit 53, and display control unit 54.

[0037] The information acquisition unit 51 acquires various types of information. For example, the information acquisition unit 51 acquires information entered into the user interface. Examples of information entered into the user interface include user information and information entered to assign desired shifts to model shifts. The information acquisition unit 51 also acquires information transmitted to the user terminal 2 from the server 1, worker terminal 3, and external sources. Examples of information transmitted to the user terminal 2 include model shifts, desired shifts, and adjustment result information.

[0038] The information management unit 52 stores and manages various types of information in a database. For example, the information management unit 52 stores and manages user information, model shifts, desired shifts, adjustment result information, etc., in a database provided in the storage unit 18.

[0039] The transmission control unit 53 controls the transmission of various information to the server 1 and the worker terminal 3. For example, the transmission control unit 53 controls the transmission of information entered into the user interface to the server 1. Examples of information entered into the user interface include user information and information entered to assign a desired shift to the model shift.

[0040] The display control unit 54 controls the display of various information on the display unit. For example, the display control unit 54 controls the display of the user interface on the display unit. The user interface displays model shift, desired shift, adjustment result information, etc. A specific example of the user interface displayed on the display unit of the user terminal 2 will be described later.

[0041] ≪Functional Configuration of Worker Terminal 3≫ Figure 5(B) is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of worker terminal 3. The control unit of worker terminal 3 includes an information acquisition unit 61, an information management unit 62, a transmission control unit 63, and a display control unit 64.

[0042] The information acquisition unit 61 acquires various types of information. For example, the information acquisition unit 61 acquires information entered into the user interface. Examples of information entered into the user interface include desired shifts. The information acquisition unit 61 also acquires information transmitted to the worker terminal 3 from the server 1, the user terminal 2, and external sources. Examples of information transmitted to the worker terminal 3 include help progress and adjustment result information.

[0043] The information management unit 62 stores and manages various types of information in a database. For example, the information management unit 62 stores and manages worker information in a database (for example, worker information DB 43) provided in the storage unit 18.

[0044] The transmission control unit 63 controls the transmission of various information to the server 1 and the user terminal 2. For example, the transmission control unit 63 controls the transmission of information entered into the user interface to the server 1. Examples of information entered into the user interface include worker information and work result information.

[0045] The display control unit 64 controls the display of various information on the display unit. For example, the display control unit 64 controls the display of the user interface on the display unit. The user interface displays help information, adjustment result information, etc. A specific example of the user interface displayed on the display unit of the worker terminal 3 will be described later.

[0046] <Processing details> ≪Processing details of Server 1≫ Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of Server 1. Server 1 determines whether user information is available from user terminal 2. If it is available (YES in step S601), it retrieves the transmitted user information (step S602). Then, based on the user information retrieved in step S602, Server 1 retrieves the model shift for each business and each location (step S603). On the other hand, if there is no user information from user terminal 2 (NO in step S601), Server 1 repeats step S601 until user information is transmitted from user terminal 2.

[0047] Server 1 determines whether worker information is available from each of worker terminals 3-1 to 3-n. If available (YES in step S604), it retrieves the worker information (step S605). Then, based on the worker information retrieved in step S605, Server 1 retrieves the desired shift (step S606). Conversely, if there is no worker information from each of worker terminals 3-1 to 3-n (NO in step S604), Server 1 repeats step S604 until worker information is transmitted from each of worker terminals 3-1 to 3-n.

[0048] Server 1 assigns the desired shift to the model shift (step S607). If, as a result of the assignment process in step S607, an imbalance between the supply and demand of labor occurs (YES in step S608), Server 1 corrects the imbalance by adjusting the desired shift to match the model shift (step S609). Server 1 then transmits the result of the adjustment in step S609 to user terminal 2 (step S610). Conversely, if, as a result of the assignment process in step S607, an imbalance between the supply and demand of labor occurs (NO in step S608), that is, if work is assigned to a specific worker A during the time period according to their desired shift, Server 1 transmits the result of the assignment process in step S607 to user terminal 2 without making any adjustments (step S611).

[0049] When result information is sent from each of the worker terminals 3-1 to 3-n via the process described in step S817 (YES in step S612), Server 1 acquires the transmitted result information (step S613). Then, Server 1 sends the result information acquired in step S613 to User terminal 2 (step S614). On the other hand, if no result information has been sent from each of the worker terminals 3-1 to 3-n (NO in step S612), Server 1 repeats step S612 until result information is sent from each of the worker terminals 3-1 to 3-n.

[0050] ≪Processing details of user terminal 2≫ Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of user terminal 2. When an operation to display the user interface is performed on the user terminal 2 (YES in step S701), the user interface is displayed on the display unit (step S702). Conversely, if no operation to display the user interface is performed (NO in step S701), the user terminal 2 repeats step S701 until an operation to display the user interface is performed.

[0051] When user information is entered into the user interface (YES in step S703), user terminal 2 retrieves the entered user information (step S704). Then, user terminal 2 sends the user information retrieved in step S704 to server 1 (step S705). Conversely, if no user information is entered into the user interface (NO in step S703), user terminal 2 repeats step S703 until user information is entered into the user interface.

[0052] When user terminal 2 receives model shift and desired shift from server 1 (YES in step S706), it retrieves the received model shift and desired shift (step S707). Then, user terminal 2 displays the model shift and desired shift on the user interface (step S708). On the other hand, if no model shift and desired shift have been sent from server 1 (NO in step S706), user terminal 2 repeats step S706 until the model shift and desired shift are sent from server 1.

[0053] When an input operation to assign a desired shift to the model shift is performed on user terminal 2 (YES in step S709), user terminal 2 acquires the input information (step S710). Then, user terminal 2 sends the input information acquired in step S710 to server 1 (step S711). On the other hand, if no input operation to assign a desired shift to the model shift has been performed (NO in step S709), user terminal 2 repeats step S709 until an input operation to assign a desired shift to the model shift is performed.

[0054] When user terminal 2 receives the result of the desired shift adjustment from server 1 (YES in step S712), it retrieves the result of the desired shift adjustment (step S713) and displays the result of the desired shift adjustment on the user interface (step S714). On the other hand, if the result of the desired shift adjustment has not been sent from server 1 (NO in step S712), user terminal 2 repeats step S712 until the result of the desired shift adjustment is sent from server 1.

[0055] ≪Processing details of worker terminal 3≫ Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of worker terminal 3. When an operation to display the user interface is performed on worker terminal 3 (YES in step S801), the user interface is displayed on the display unit (step S802). Conversely, if no operation to display the user interface is performed (NO in step S801), worker terminal 3 repeats step S801 until an operation to display the user interface is performed.

[0056] When worker information is entered into the user interface (YES in step S803), worker terminal 3 retrieves the entered worker information (step S804). Then, worker terminal 3 sends the worker information retrieved in step S804 to server 1 (step S805). Conversely, if no worker information is entered into the user interface (NO in step S803), worker terminal 3 repeats step S803 until worker information is entered into the user interface.

[0057] When worker terminal 3 receives information on the progress of shift adjustments from server 1 (YES in step S806), it retrieves the received information (step S807) and displays the retrieved information on the user interface (step S808). Then, worker terminal 3 proceeds to step S809. On the other hand, if no information on shift adjustments has been received from server 1 (NO in step S806), worker terminal 3 repeats step S806 until information on shift adjustments is entered into the user interface.

[0058] When an input operation to change the desired shift is performed on worker terminal 3 (YES in step S809), the terminal acquires the input information (step S810) and sends the acquired input information to server 1 as worker information (step S811). Conversely, if no input operation to change the desired shift has been performed (NO in step S809), worker terminal 3 repeats step S809 until an input operation to change the desired shift is performed on the user interface.

[0059] When worker terminal 3 receives the result of the desired shift adjustment from server 1 (YES in step S812), it retrieves the received result of the desired shift adjustment (step S813) and displays the retrieved result of the desired shift adjustment on the user interface (step S814). Conversely, if the result of the desired shift adjustment has not been sent from server 1 (NO in step S812), worker terminal 3 repeats step S812 until the result of the desired shift adjustment is sent from server 1.

[0060] When an operation to input result information is performed on worker terminal 3 (YES in step S815), the worker terminal 3 acquires the input result information (step S816) and sends the acquired result information to server 1 (step S817). Conversely, if no operation to input result information has been performed (NO in step S815), worker terminal 3 repeats step S815 until an operation to input result information is performed.

[0061] <Screen display example> Figures 9(A) to 13(B) show examples of screen displays for the shift management system. Figures 9(A) and 9(B) show specific examples of user interfaces when the process of assigning desired shifts to model shifts is performed based on assignment instructions from the user. In particular, the user interface shown in Figure 9(A) displays the relationship between a model shift and desired shifts for a certain restaurant on a given day in a manner that can be viewed at a glance. Specifically, frames Wd1 to Wd6, which show the model shifts for each task of a certain restaurant, and frames Ws1 to Ws4, which show the desired shifts of workers A to D who are engaged in the tasks of that restaurant, are associated with the same time axis.

[0062] Frames Wd1 and Wd2 both represent model shifts for kitchen operations, with frame Wd1 covering the hours from 10:00 to 15:00 and frame Wd2 covering the hours from 13:00 to 22:00. In other words, the user (for example, a restaurant manager) has set up two different model shifts for kitchen operations between 10:00 and 22:00.

[0063] Frames Wd3 through Wd6 all represent model shifts for hall operations, with the corresponding time slots being 9:00 to 15:00 for frame Wd3, 9:00 to 17:00 for frame Wd4, 15:00 to 22:00 for frame Wd5, and 13:00 to 22:00 for frame Wd6. In other words, the user has set up four different model shifts for hall operations between 9:00 and 22:00.

[0064] Slot Ws1 shows the desired shift of worker A, who wishes to work between 9:00 and 19:00. Slot Ws2 shows the desired shift of worker B, who wishes to work between 9:00 and 16:00. Slot Ws3 shows the desired shift of worker C, who wishes to work between 13:00 and 22:00. Slot Ws4 shows the desired shift of worker D, who wishes to work between 16:00 and 22:00.

[0065] Figure 9(B) shows a specific example of an input operation for assigning a shift by the user, where a frame showing a desired shift is overlaid on a frame showing a model shift. For example, suppose the user wants to assign worker A to frame Wd1, which shows a model shift for kitchen work from 10:00 to 15:00. In this case, the user would perform the operations of selecting frame Ws1, which shows worker A's desired shift, and then overlaying it on frame Wd1, which shows the model shift for kitchen work, in sequence.

[0066] For example, the user clicks on frame Ws1 and then moves (drags) frame Ws1 so that it overlaps frame Wd1. As shown in Figure 9(B), the appearance of frame Wd1 changes, and the difference areas D1 and D2 between frame Ws1 and frame Wd1 are visualized. Areas D1 and D2 represent the imbalance between the supply and demand of labor and are displayed with a different appearance (different color, etc.) than the appearance of frame Wd1. Areas D1 and D2 also visualize a portion of frame Ws1 that has been adjusted to correct the imbalance between the supply and demand of labor. The adjustment can be made, for example, by moving the right or left edge of frame Wd1. The order in which the frames are placed does not matter; you may place the frame indicating the model shift on top of the frame indicating the desired shift.

[0067] The user selects frame Wd1 and then presses button B1, which is labeled "Confirm." Although not shown in the illustration, frame Wd1 becomes invisible, and the appearance of frame Ws1 changes to one that allows the user to recognize the contents of frame Wd1. This allows the user to immediately understand that frame Ws1 has been assigned to frame Wd1. The user can also make the hidden frame Wd1 visible again by performing a predetermined operation to cancel the assignment.

[0068] Figures 10(A) and 10(B) show specific examples of user interfaces when the process of assigning desired shifts to model shifts is performed automatically by a shift management system. In the user interface shown in Figure 10(A), similar to the example in Figure 9(A) above, frames Wd1 to Wd6, which show model shifts for each task in a certain restaurant, and frames Ws1 to Ws4, which show the desired shifts of workers A to D engaged in the tasks of that restaurant, are associated with the same time axis.

[0069] Suppose the user wants to assign one of workers A through C to frames Wd1 and Wd2, which represent model shifts for kitchen operations. In this case, as shown in Figure 10(A), the user selects frames Wd1 and Wd2, then selects frames Ws1 through Ws3, and then presses button B2 labeled "Assign". The assignment process then takes place for the selected frames (frames Wd1 and Wd2, and frames Ws1 through Ws3). Figure 10(B) shows an example of the result of this assignment process.

[0070] In the example in Figure 10(B), a portion of frame Ws1 is assigned to frame Wd1, and frame Ws3 is assigned to frame Wd2. In other words, in the example in Figure 10(B), workers A and C are assigned to frames Wd1 and Wd2, which represent model shifts for kitchen work, while worker B is excluded from the assignment. As shown in Figure 10(A) above, frames Ws1 and Ws2, which represent the desired shifts of workers A and B respectively, could both be subject to assignment to frame Wd1, which represents model shifts for kitchen work. However, in the assignment process of the shift management system, a portion of frame Ws1, which represents worker A's desired shift, is assigned, while frame Ws2, which represents worker B's desired shift, is excluded from the assignment. This is a result of the shift management system taking into account information regarding the labor supply capacity of workers A and B in its assignment process.

[0071] For example, if worker A is rated higher than worker B in terms of their ability to supply labor in kitchen operations, then worker A is expected to contribute more to the store's sales than worker B. Therefore, worker A is more likely to be assigned to a position than worker B. However, this is just one example. For instance, two time slots Wd representing model shifts could be set up for the same time period, with one of the time slots Wd being assigned to a time slot Ws representing the preferred shift of an experienced worker, and the other time slot Wd being more likely to be assigned to a time slot Ws representing the preferred shift of a less experienced worker.

[0072] Furthermore, during periods with fewer workers assigned, veteran workers may be more likely to be assigned, while during periods with more workers assigned, less experienced workers may be more likely to be assigned. Additionally, workers may be able to supply labor at locations other than their primary work location. In this case, priority may be given to assigning labor to their primary work location. Furthermore, if tasks such as preparation or cleaning are required, the number of workers assigned may be increased, and notification may be given if the cumulative working hours exceed the limit or if the worker is assigned to a time when they cannot work.

[0073] Furthermore, learning capabilities (AI) can also be used for the above assignments. For example, an automated allocation process could be performed using a learning model that has learned from past allocation data (trends). Furthermore, when automatically assigning tasks, for example, the system may consider the worker's skill information, determine whether there are any labor violations (overtime), and whether the cumulative working hours have not exceeded the worker's desired hours (and consequently, whether the total salary income does not exceed the amount to which dependent deductions apply). Furthermore, for example, when automatically assigning tasks, priority criteria for the assigned workers may be considered. Furthermore, the assigned data may be automatically reflected in the worker's (employee's) preferred shift. Furthermore, if a store manager manually changes the assignment data after it has been automatically assigned, the log information of the change may be obtained and compared with sales performance to create the aforementioned assignment performance data. Based on sales performance, existing model shifts provided by headquarters may be modified, or new model shifts may be generated based on manually modified assignment data. Furthermore, the model shift system may include a function to issue alerts if there are shifts that could not be automatically assigned. For shifts that could not be automatically assigned, the system may automatically recruit available workers. Additionally, the display may show (for example, using different colors) the time slots that were actually assigned to the desired shift and those that were not. By doing so, it becomes possible to optimize the assignment of shifts based on workers' preferred shifts in relation to the optimized business model shift.

[0074] Furthermore, the above-mentioned assignments may be made taking into account attendance records for a specified period in the past (for example, the past month). Here, it would be beneficial to acquire the worker's location information and acceleration information as attendance record data. Location and acceleration information can be obtained, for example, using IoT devices (e.g., smartwatches; cybermetrics). This allows for assignments to be made in a way that avoids, for example, having workers in the same position (e.g., the kitchen) for three days, thus preventing a decrease in worker motivation. Furthermore, if the assignment data created by the aforementioned learning function (AI) is manually modified, the modified assignment data may be used for learning (retraining; feedback).

[0075] Thus, while a user can select multiple frames representing model shifts and multiple frames representing desired shifts, and the shift management system can assign within the selected range, it is also possible to perform the assignment process in a batch without selecting a range. Specifically, as shown in Figure 10(A), when button B3 labeled "Batch Assignment" is pressed, an assignment is performed targeting all frames representing model shifts Wd1~Wd6 and all desired shifts Ws1~Ws4.

[0076] In this case, the user's convenience is improved because it becomes unnecessary to select a frame Wd representing a model shift or a frame Ws representing a desired shift. Furthermore, assignments are made that take into account the labor supply capacity of each worker for each task. For example, in the example in Figure 10(A), frame Wd1 representing the model shift for kitchen work and frame Wd3 representing the model shift for hall work can be considered as assignment candidates for either frame Ws1 representing worker A's desired shift or frame Ws2 representing worker B's desired shift.

[0077] Here, let's assume that the worker information includes, for example, information indicating that worker A is skilled in kitchen work and worker B is skilled in front-of-house work. In this case, the shift management system can, based on the worker information, assign, for example, slot Ws1 to slot Wd1 and slot Ws2 to slot Wd3. This allows each worker to perform the tasks they are skilled in, and thus enables the creation of a work schedule that takes into account the labor supply capacity of each worker.

[0078] Figure 11 shows a specific example of the user interface displayed on the display unit of user terminal 2 when a user selects a model shift. The user interface shown in Figure 11 displays the registered model shift information along with the label "Model Shift List". Specifically, the following information is displayed for each registered model shift: "Model Shift Name", "Total Person-Hours", "Applicable Conditions", "Sales Plan", and "Operation".

[0079] In the registered model shift information, "Model Shift Name" refers to the registered name of the model shift. "Total Man-Hours" refers to the number of workers assigned per hour. "Applicable Conditions" refers to the attributes of the day to which the model shift applies (day of the week, public holidays, etc.). "Sales Plan" refers to the planned sales amount for the day to which the model shift applies. "Operation" refers to information for accessing detailed model shift information. In the example in Figure 11, button B4 is displayed, which, when pressed, allows access to detailed model shift information. For specific examples of the information displayed when button B4 is pressed, please refer to Figure 12 below.

[0080] In the example in Figure 11, the model shift named "Weekend (Busy)" has a total man-hour count of "53 man-hours," applies to "every week, Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays," and has a sales target of "250,000" yen. In other words, the model shift named "Weekend (Busy)" is a model shift that applies to busy days among the Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays of each week. Also, the model shift named "Weekend (Normal)" has a total man-hour count of "29.5 man-hours," applies to "every week, Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays," and has a sales target of "150,000" yen. In other words, the model shift named "Weekend (Normal)" is a model shift that applies to normal days among the Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays that are not busy days.

[0081] Furthermore, in the example in Figure 11, the model shift named "Weekday (Normal)" has a total man-hour count of "60 man-hours," applies to "Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday every week," and has a sales target of "150,000" yen. In other words, the model shift named "Weekday (Normal)" is a model shift that applies to normal days, not busy days, from Monday to Friday every week. Also, the model shift named "Weekday (Busy)" has a total man-hour count of "67.75 man-hours," applies to "Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday every week," and has a sales target of "300,000" yen. In other words, the model shift named "Weekday (Busy)" is a model shift that applies to busy days, from Monday to Friday every week.

[0082] Figure 12 shows a specific example of the user interface that appears when button B4 in Figure 11 is pressed. The user interface in Figure 12 displays detailed information for the model shift named "Weekends (Busy)" among the model shifts exemplified in Figure 11.

[0083] As shown in Figure 12, the model shift displays the model customer count, total man-hours, location name, and tasks on the same time axis in the upper display area F1. In addition, the middle display area F2 displays frames showing the model shift for each task. In the example in Figure 12, two frames showing the model shift for kitchen operations are shown. One frame displays the word "Trainer" along with line L1, and the other frame displays the word "Mop Polishing" along with line L2. These displays visualize the time slots of important detailed tasks that make up kitchen operations. Important detailed tasks can be set in advance at each location, for example. Visualizing the time slots of important detailed tasks can improve the efficiency of assigning desired shifts.

[0084] In addition, the lower display area F3 shows the model information including total customer count, total labor hours, sales per labor hour, estimated labor costs, labor hour surplus / shortage, and labor cost ratio, as well as button B5 to press when saving the model shift and button B6 to press when adding a new job to the model shift. Outside the model shift area, there is a selection button B7 to press when specifying the number of frames to display for the model shift.

[0085] Figure 13(A) shows a specific example of the user interface displayed on user terminal 2 when generating help information. As shown in Figure 13(A), the user interface displays the words "Create New Help" along with various buttons for specifying the location name, the "position" indicating the work, the target date and time, the number of people required, and the "target employees" indicating the workers to be targeted, as well as a field for entering work-related contact information (work communication).

[0086] The user performs input operations to specify each piece of information while referring to the information sent from Server 1. Server 1 then generates help information based on the input information entered into the user interface and notifies the labor supply side of the generated help information. Upon receiving the help information, the labor supply side generates new worker information as needed and sends it to Server 1. Further adjustments are then made at Server 1.

[0087] Figure 13(B) shows a specific example of the user interface displayed on the display unit of the worker terminal 3 when a worker enters worker information. As shown in Figure 13(B), the user interface displays various input fields for specifying the employee's name, location, job title, target date and time, and break times, as well as buttons for specifying the break start and end times, and a field for entering work-related information (work-related communication). If an employee views the job description (labor requirements) and finds anything lacking, they can also submit a request themselves.

[0088] The information entered into the user interface shown in Figure 13(B) is sent to Server 1 as worker information. Then, as described above, Server 1 generates the desired shifts based on the worker information entered into the user interface.

[0089] (Second Embodiment) <Overview> This embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the overview of this embodiment (second embodiment). Figure 14 shows a shift management system for managing the shifts of workers at convenience stores and the like in this embodiment. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in that one worker works across multiple locations. While the example shown involves a worker employed at a convenience store and working at both convenience store A and convenience store B, the embodiment is not limited to this, and includes cases where the worker works at multiple locations (stores) within the same company. The details of this embodiment will be described below. Note that the system configuration of the shift management system and the hardware configuration of Server 1, etc., in this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be explained further.

[0090] <Functional Configuration> Figure 15 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of Server 1. In the CPU 11 of Server 1, when it is in operation, in addition to the functions described in the first embodiment above, the following functions are also active: the desired shift acquisition unit 71, the confirmed work information acquisition unit 72, the extraction unit 73, the skill information management unit 74, the desired work conditions acquisition unit 75, the working hours management unit 76, the recruitment shift transmission unit 77, the designated base reception unit 78, the recruitment shift acquisition unit 79, the desired shift information generation unit 80, the display control unit 81, and so on. The desired shift acquisition unit 71 and the display control unit 81 can also be considered as functional units corresponding to the desired shift acquisition unit 33 and the display control unit 37, respectively. The functional configurations of user terminal 2 and worker terminal 3 are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0091] The shift preference acquisition unit 71 acquires the shift preferences entered by the worker from the worker terminal 3. In this embodiment, the desired shifts include at least days on which the employee wishes to work at multiple locations, but in other respects, they are the same as the desired shifts described above. Furthermore, the shift preference acquisition unit 71 may simultaneously acquire shift preferences entered by workers at multiple locations. Normally, workers submit their shift preferences for each location, but in this embodiment, even if the shift preferences for multiple locations are acquired simultaneously, the user at each location can appropriately manage the shifts through the control described later.

[0092] The confirmed work information acquisition unit 72 acquires confirmed work information of a worker from the user terminal 2 at a designated location (the first location) among multiple locations. For example, if one worker A works at multiple locations (for example, the first location and the second location), without any control, the employers at the first location and the second location would compete for the worker's desired shifts on a first-come, first-served basis. In this case, if the portion of worker A's desired shifts assigned to the first location is not notified to the second location, the employer at the second location would experience inconvenience in shift management. Therefore, the confirmed work information acquisition unit 72 acquires the work information (confirmed work information) that has been confirmed at the first location. Then, the display control unit 81, described later, notifies the second location (a location other than the first location where worker A works) of the confirmed work information, thereby preventing the aforementioned inconvenience from occurring.

[0093] The extraction unit 73 extracts candidate shifts (from the desired shifts) that can be assigned to the second location for the worker, based on the desired shift information and confirmed work information. Furthermore, the extraction unit 73 may extract candidate shifts that can be assigned to the second location for the worker, based on the travel time between locations, in addition to the desired shift information and confirmed work information mentioned above. Here, travel time refers to the travel time when working consecutively between the first and second locations, and is typically the travel time when using public transportation such as buses or trains. Furthermore, if the desired work conditions are obtained by the desired work conditions acquisition unit 75, which will be described later, the extraction unit 73 can extract, in addition to the desired shift information and confirmed work information mentioned above, shift candidates that can be assigned to the second base for the worker based on the desired work conditions. Desired working conditions are working conditions set by the worker and include at least one of the following: the worker's preferred priority at multiple locations, working hours, or working period. For example, a worker may prefer to work at the first location, and if they are unable to work their desired shifts at the first location, they may prefer to work at the second location. In this case, by setting the aforementioned priority order for each location as a working condition, shift management can be carried out in a way that aligns with the worker's preferences. Furthermore, for example, a worker might prefer to work at a first location near their school during the day and at a second location near their home at night. In this case, by setting the desired working hours for each location, it becomes possible to manage shifts in a way that aligns with the worker's preferences. Similarly, if, for example, an employee wishes to work at a first location near their school on weekdays and at a second location near their home on weekends, it would be appropriate to set the desired work conditions and work period for each location. The extracted shift candidates are then displayed on a predetermined display unit at the terminal of the target location by the display control unit 81, which will be described later.

[0094] The Skill Information Management Unit 74 manages the skill information of workers employed at multiple locations, linking it to common identification information. Skill information is stored, for example, in the Skill Information Database 47. In this embodiment, common identification information is stored in the identification information DB46 (identification information storage means). This allows, for example, if an employee leaves the first location, their performance information, such as skill information, to be transferred to another location. Common identification information can include, but is not limited to, the employee's telephone number or email address.

[0095] The desired working conditions acquisition unit 75 acquires the above-mentioned desired working conditions from the worker terminal 3.

[0096] The working hours management unit 76 manages the total working hours of employees by accumulating the working hours of employees working at multiple locations. This makes it possible to determine, for example, whether an employee's overtime hours are within the limits stipulated by the Labor Standards Act, even when the employee works for multiple companies. Working hours are stored, for example, in the working hours database 48.

[0097] The recruitment shift transmission unit 77 simultaneously transmits the recruitment shift information entered by the user (for example, the store manager) to worker terminals 3 working at multiple locations. Here, the "recruitment shift" refers to the model shift that has not yet been assigned to a worker.

[0098] The designated location reception unit 78 accepts designations for multiple locations from the worker terminal 3.

[0099] The recruitment shift acquisition unit 79 acquires the aforementioned recruitment shift information for multiple designated locations.

[0100] The desired shift information generation unit 80 generates desired shift information based on the recruitment shift information from multiple locations. This allows workers to create and submit their preferred shifts based on the employer's available shifts at multiple locations, without having to wait for workers to submit their preferred shifts. This is particularly useful for workers with flexible schedules.

[0101] The display control unit 81 controls the display of various information to the user terminal 2 or worker terminal 3. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the display control unit 81 controls the content to be displayed depending on whether the locations where a single worker works belong to the same corporate group. In other words, if the first and second locations belong to different companies, the display control unit 81 displays the working hours on the terminal corresponding to the second location based on the confirmed work information. Furthermore, if the first and second locations belong to the same company, the display control unit 81 displays multiple work locations and working hours on the terminal corresponding to the second location, based on the confirmed work information. The total working hours include working hours at multiple locations and travel time between those locations.

[0102] <Processing details> Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of Server 1.

[0103] In step S1601, the desired shift acquisition unit 71 acquires the desired shift entered by the worker from the worker terminal 3.

[0104] In step S1602, the desired work conditions acquisition unit 75 acquires the above-mentioned desired work conditions from the worker terminal 3.

[0105] In step S1603, the confirmed work information acquisition unit 72 acquires confirmed work information of workers whose work has already been confirmed from the user terminal 2 at a designated location (the first location) among multiple locations.

[0106] In step S1604, the extraction unit 73 extracts candidate shifts that can be assigned to the second location for the worker, based on the desired shift information, confirmed work information, and desired work conditions.

[0107] Note that the processing in steps S1605 to S1609 is the same as the processing in steps S607 to S611 described above, so the explanation is omitted.

[0108] (modified version) Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and any modifications, improvements, etc. that can achieve the objectives of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0109] For example, in the above embodiment, information indicating an imbalance between the supply and demand of labor is displayed on the display unit of the user terminal 2, but the help information displayed on the display unit of the worker terminal 3 may also include information indicating an imbalance between the supply and demand of labor.

[0110] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, help information is generated for one or more workers belonging to the same location, but help information may also be generated for one or more workers belonging to other locations.

[0111] Furthermore, employee performance evaluations may be made visible through star ratings or similar methods, and support should be provided through manuals and instructional videos to help employees reach a certain level of proficiency in unfamiliar tasks. After proficiency is achieved, the employee's experience and the quality of that experience should be recorded and reflected in their wages according to their level of proficiency. Furthermore, alerts or similar notifications may be issued to employees regarding requested shifts that exceed predetermined working hours. Furthermore, a frame indicating break times may be overlaid on the model shift. Additionally, the frame indicating break times may be freely movable along the time axis. Break times will be automatically set and adjusted to comply with, for example, the Labor Standards Act. Furthermore, it is preferable that a worker's (employee's) shared ID (or phone number) is associated with a company-specific employee ID.

[0112] Furthermore, the configuration of the shift management system and the hardware configuration of Server 1 are merely illustrative examples for achieving the objectives of the present invention and are not particularly limited. Similarly, the functional configurations of Server 1, User Terminal 2, and Worker Terminal 3 are also merely illustrative examples and are not particularly limited. It is sufficient that the shift management system is equipped with a function that can execute the above-described process as a whole, and the functional configuration used to realize this function is not limited to the examples described above.

[0113] For example, in the embodiment described above, the server 1 is configured to generate a model shift based on user information transmitted from the user terminal 2, but the system is not limited to this. For example, the user terminal 2 may generate a model shift based on user information and transmit that model shift to the server 1. Alternatively, a learning model trained on past allocation performance data, store sales data, location information, date and time, and other sales-influencing information may be used to generate appropriate model shifts based on a small amount of information, such as location information and date and time.

[0114] Furthermore, the above-described processes for each of the components of the shift management system—Server 1, User Terminal 2, and Worker Terminal 3—are merely examples, and the shift management system as a whole only needs to have the functionality to implement the above-described processes. For this reason, some or all of the functions for implementing the above-described processes may be shared or performed collaboratively within the shift management system. In other words, some or all of the functions of server 1 may be assigned to user terminal 2 or worker terminal 3, and some or all of the functions of user terminal 2 may be assigned to server 1 or worker terminal 3. Also, some or all of the functions of worker terminal 3 may be assigned to server 1 or user terminal 2. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of server 1, which constitutes the shift management system, may be transferred to other servers, etc., not shown in the diagram. This will speed up the processing of the shift management system as a whole, and will also allow for complementary processing.

[0115] Furthermore, the order of the processing steps for Server 1, User Terminal 2, and Worker Terminal 3 shown above is merely illustrative and not particularly limiting. Processing is not limited to the order of steps shown in the diagram; it may also be performed in parallel or individually. Similarly, the screen display described above is merely an example and not particularly limiting.

[0116] Furthermore, the series of processes described above can be executed by hardware or by software. Also, a single functional block may consist of hardware alone, software alone, or a combination of both. In addition, the processes in each of the embodiments described above may be executed in combination.

[0117] When a series of processes are executed by software, the programs that make up that software are installed on a computer or other device from a network or storage medium. The computer may be a computer built into dedicated hardware. Alternatively, the computer may be a computer capable of performing various functions by installing various programs, such as a server, a general-purpose smartphone, or a personal computer.

[0118] Such recording media containing programs may consist not only of removable media (not shown) distributed separately from the main unit of the device to provide the program to the user, but also of recording media provided to the user in a state pre-installed in the main unit of the device. Furthermore, in this specification, the term "system" refers to an overall device composed of multiple devices, multiple means, etc.

[0119] (others) In other words, the information processing device to which the present invention is applied can take various forms having the following configurations. In other words, (1-1) an information processing device (e.g., server 1) having: demand schedule information acquisition means (e.g., model shift acquisition unit 31) that acquires demand schedule information which is the schedule of work required by the user; supply schedule information acquisition means (e.g., desired shift acquisition unit 33) that acquires supply schedule information which is the schedule of work desired by the worker; assignment means (e.g., assignment unit 34) that assigns the supply schedule information to the demand schedule information; adjustment means (e.g., adjustment unit 35) that adjusts the supply schedule information assigned by the assignment means based on the demand schedule information; and display control means (e.g., display control unit 37) that displays the supply schedule information adjusted by the adjustment means on a predetermined display unit. This makes it easy to generate work schedules that take into account the circumstances of the employer.

[0120] Furthermore, (1-2) the allocation means may assign the supply schedule information to the demand schedule information for each predetermined business. This makes it possible to generate work schedules that take into account the specific circumstances of each job from the employer's perspective.

[0121] Furthermore, (1-3) the allocation means may allocate the supply schedule information to the demand schedule information based on the allocation instruction from the user. This makes it possible to generate work schedules that take into account the employer's evaluation of the employee.

[0122] Furthermore, (1-4) the allocation means may allocate the supply schedule information of multiple workers to the demand schedule information based on the allocation instructions from the user. This makes it possible to generate work schedules that take into account the employer's evaluation of the employee.

[0123] Furthermore, (1-5) the allocation means may, based on the allocation instructions from the user, allocate the supply schedule information of multiple workers to the demand schedule information of multiple tasks. This makes it possible to generate work schedules that take into account the specific circumstances of each job from the employer's perspective.

[0124] Furthermore, (1-6) the display control means displays a first item (for example, frames Wd1 to Wd6) indicating the demand forecast information and a second item (for example, frames Ws1 to Ws4) indicating the supply forecast information, corresponding to the same time axis, and the assignment means assigns the supply forecast information to the demand forecast information in response to receiving an input operation for the first item or the second item. This allows employers to create work schedules that take into account the specific circumstances of each job simply by performing a few simple operations on the user interface.

[0125] Furthermore, (1-7) the input operation may include an operation to overlap the first item and the second item. This allows employers to create work schedules that take into account the specifics of each task and employee performance evaluations, simply by performing a few simple operations on the user interface.

[0126] Furthermore, (1-8) it is preferable to have a demand forecast information generation means (for example, a model shift generation unit 32) that generates demand forecast information corresponding to a predetermined location. This allows employers to prepare models in advance that can maximize sales for each location, making it easy to create work schedules that maximize sales according to the situation.

[0127] Furthermore, (1-9) the supply schedule information includes the worker's skill information, and the allocation means may assign the supply schedule information to the demand schedule information based on the skill information. This makes it easier for employers to create work schedules that take employee performance evaluations into account.

[0128] Furthermore, (1-10) the system may further include result information acquisition means (for example, a labor result information acquisition unit 36) for acquiring result information indicating the results of the work performed by the worker, and the display control means may display the result information on the predetermined display unit. This allows employers to easily track employees' work status against the work schedules they have created.

[0129] Furthermore, (1-11) the result information may include the degree to which the planned demand information is satisfied with the planned supply information. This allows employers to track the results of their assignments for each individual employee.

[0130] In other words, the information processing device to which the present invention is applied can take various forms having the following configurations. In other words, (2-1) an information processing device comprising: a desired shift acquisition means (e.g., a desired shift acquisition unit 71) that acquires desired shift information input by a worker, which includes at least the days on which the worker wishes to work at multiple locations; a confirmed work information acquisition means (e.g., a confirmed work information acquisition unit 72) that acquires confirmed work information of the worker at a first location among the multiple locations, which indicates that the worker's work has already been confirmed; an extraction means (e.g., an extraction unit 73) that extracts shift candidates that can be assigned to a second location for the worker based on the desired shift information and the confirmed work information; and a display control means (e.g., a display control unit 81) that displays the extracted shift candidates on a predetermined display means. This makes it easy to generate work schedules that take into account the circumstances of the employer, even when workers are employed by multiple companies or at multiple locations.

[0131] Furthermore, (2-2) the extraction means may extract candidate shifts that can be assigned to the second location for the worker based on the desired shift information, the confirmed work information, and the travel time when working consecutively at the first location and the second location. This makes it possible to create work shifts that are manageable for workers who work at multiple locations.

[0132] Furthermore, (2-3) it is preferable to have identification information storage means (for example, identification information DB46) that stores common identification information linked to the identification information of workers used at the multiple locations. This allows for the management of workers without the need for location-specific identification numbers. For example, even if a worker leaves a particular location, their information (such as skills) can be transferred.

[0133] Furthermore, (2-4) it is preferable to have a skill information management means (for example, a skill information management unit 74) that manages the skill information of the workers working at the multiple locations in association with the common identification information. As a result, as mentioned above, even if an employee leaves a particular location, their skill information and other relevant data can be transferred.

[0134] Furthermore, (2-5) the system further includes a desired work conditions acquisition means (for example, a desired work conditions acquisition unit 75) that acquires desired work conditions set by the worker, which include at least one of the worker's desired priority, work hours, and work period at the multiple locations, and the extraction means may extract shift candidates that can be assigned to the second location for the worker based on the desired shift information, the confirmed work information, and the desired work conditions. This makes it possible to generate work shifts that match the workers' preferences.

[0135] Furthermore, (2-6) it is preferable to have a working time management means (for example, a working time management unit 76) that manages the total working hours of the workers by accumulating the working hours of the workers who work at the multiple locations. This makes it possible to manage the cumulative working hours of an individual worker, which may not have been possible to track at a single location (or company).

[0136] Furthermore, (2-7) the means for obtaining desired shifts should simultaneously obtain the desired shifts from multiple locations, which have been entered by the workers. This eliminates the need for workers to submit their preferred shifts at each location.

[0137] Furthermore, (2-8) it is preferable to have a recruitment shift transmission means (for example, a recruitment shift transmission unit 77) that simultaneously transmits recruitment shift information entered by the base manager to the workers working at the multiple bases. This makes it easy to request help when there isn't enough of the workers' preferred shifts to match the model shift schedule.

[0138] Furthermore, (2-9) it is preferable to have a designated location receiving means (for example, a designated location receiving unit 78) for receiving designations of the multiple locations from the worker, a recruitment shift acquisition means (for example, a recruitment shift acquisition unit 79) for acquiring recruitment shift information at the designated multiple locations, and a desired shift information generation means (for example, a desired shift information generation unit 80) for generating the desired shift information based on the recruitment shift information at the multiple locations. This makes it easy to generate shifts based on workers' preferences.

[0139] Furthermore, (2-10) the display control means may, if the first and second locations belong to different companies, display the working hours on the terminal corresponding to the second location based on the confirmed work information, and if the first and second locations belong to the same company, display the multiple work locations and working hours on the terminal corresponding to the second location based on the confirmed work information. This allows for secure shift management by restricting the display of work shift information from other companies, especially when working for multiple companies.

[0140] Furthermore, (2-11) the aforementioned time of confinement may include working hours at the multiple locations and travel time between the multiple locations. This allows for shift management that is reasonable for workers while also considering security, as described above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0141] 1: Server 2: User terminal 3: Worker terminal 11:CPU 18:Storage section 19:Communication section 31: Model shift acquisition unit 32: Model shift generation unit 33: Shift Request Acquisition Department 34: Assignment Department 35: Coordination Department 36: Labor result information acquisition unit 37: Display control unit 71: Desired Shift Acquisition Department 72: Confirmed Work Information Acquisition Department 73: Extraction Department 74: Skill Information Management Department 75: Desired Working Conditions Acquisition Department 76: Working Hours Management Department 77: Shift Recruitment Submission Department 78: Designated Location Reception Department 79: Shift Recruitment Acquisition Department 80: Desired shift information generation unit 81: Display control unit

Claims

1. A means for acquiring demand schedule information that acquires demand schedule information, which includes information on multiple tasks and time slots, that are work schedules required by the user. A means for acquiring supply schedule information that acquires supply schedule information including time slot information, which is the work schedule desired by multiple workers, An allocation means for assigning information on time periods indicated by frames included in the supply schedule information to information on time periods indicated by frames included in the supply schedule information, The difference between the time periods allocated by the allocation means represents an imbalance between the supply and demand of labor, and in order to correct this imbalance, the adjustment means adjusts the time periods included in the supply schedule information to match the time periods included in the demand schedule information. A display control means that displays the matching portion of the time period allocated by the allocation means and the difference in the time period allocated by the allocation means in a predetermined display unit with different appearances, It has, The display control means displays a first item indicating a frame included in the demand forecast information and a second item indicating a frame included in the supply forecast information, corresponding to the same time axis. The allocation means, upon receiving an input operation for the first item or the second item to overlap the first item and the second item, assigns the supply schedule information, indicated as the second item, to the demand schedule information, indicated as the first item. Information processing device.

2. A means for acquiring demand schedule information, which is a work schedule required by a user and includes information on multiple tasks and time slots, A means for acquiring supply schedule information that acquires supply schedule information including time slot information, which is the work schedule desired by multiple workers, An allocation means for assigning information on time periods indicated by frames included in the supply schedule information to information on time periods indicated by frames included in the supply schedule information, The difference between the time periods allocated by the allocation means represents an imbalance between the supply and demand of labor, and in order to correct this imbalance, the adjustment means adjusts the time periods included in the supply schedule information to match the time periods included in the demand schedule information. A display control means that displays the matching portion of the time period allocated by the allocation means and the difference in the time period allocated by the allocation means in a predetermined display unit with different appearances, It has, The display control means displays, as the supply schedule information adjusted by the adjustment means, the content of the work in the time slot indicated by the time slot assigned to the matching time slot assigned by the allocation means. Information processing device.

3. The display control means, when the time period information for the frame indicated by the first item is assigned by the assignment means, hides the first item. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. Furthermore, it is equipped with a memory means for storing information on the work experience of workers. The allocation means assigns the supply schedule information to the demand schedule information based on the business experience information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The system further comprises a means for acquiring result information that accepts input of result information indicating the results of work performed by the worker, The display control means displays the result information on the predetermined display unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The result information includes a degree of sufficiency, which is the degree to which the allocation means has allocated the allocation of the demand forecast information to the allocation of the supply forecast information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5.

7. A demand schedule information acquisition step involves acquiring demand schedule information that includes information on multiple tasks and time slots, which are work schedules required by the user. A supply schedule information acquisition step involves acquiring supply schedule information that includes information on time slots, which are the desired work schedules of multiple workers. A selection step of associating and assigning time period information indicated by frames included in supply schedule information to time period information indicated by frames included in demand schedule information, The adjustment step involves taking the difference between the time periods allocated in the allocation step as an imbalance between the supply and demand of labor, and adjusting the time periods included in the supply schedule information to match the time periods included in the demand schedule information in order to correct the imbalance, A display control step which displays the matching portion of the time period allocated in the allocation step and the difference between the time periods allocated in the allocation step in a predetermined display unit with different appearances, In an information processing method performed by a computer, In the display control step, a first item indicating a frame included in the demand forecast information and a second item indicating a frame included in the supply forecast information are displayed in correspondence with the same time axis. In the allocation step, upon receiving an input operation for the first item or the second item to overlap the first item and the second item, the supply schedule information shown as the second item is assigned to the demand schedule information shown as the first item. Information processing methods.

8. A demand schedule information acquisition step involves acquiring demand schedule information that includes information on multiple tasks and time slots, which are work schedules required by the user. A supply schedule information acquisition step involves acquiring supply schedule information that includes information on time slots, which are the desired work schedules of multiple workers. A selection step of associating and assigning time period information indicated by frames included in supply schedule information to time period information indicated by frames included in demand schedule information, The adjustment step involves taking the difference between the time periods allocated in the allocation step as an imbalance between the supply and demand of labor, and adjusting the time periods included in the supply schedule information to match the time periods included in the demand schedule information in order to correct the imbalance, A display control step which displays the matching portion of the time period allocated in the allocation step and the difference between the time periods allocated in the allocation step in a predetermined display unit with different appearances, In a computer program that is executed by a computer, In the display control step, a first item indicating a frame included in the demand forecast information and a second item indicating a frame included in the supply forecast information are displayed in correspondence with the same time axis. In the allocation step, upon receiving an input operation for the first item or the second item to overlap the first item and the second item, the supply schedule information shown as the second item is assigned to the demand schedule information shown as the first item. Computer program.

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