Information processing device, information processing system, and program

Abstract

To provide a coupon suitable for a user.SOLUTION: An information processing device includes a first acquisition unit, a second acquisition unit, an extraction unit, and an output unit. The first acquisition unit obtains first transaction data relating to a first transaction of a user. The second acquisition unit obtains transaction history data including second transaction data relating to one or more second transactions of the user which are made before the first transaction. The extraction unit extracts a coupon to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data. The output unit outputs information relating to the coupon to be provided to the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , , , ,

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Customers who shop at a store may receive a coupon issued together with a receipt. A manufacturer sets customers to whom coupons are to be issued based on the results of marketing research. A retailer sets customers to whom coupons are to be issued based on the results of its own customer analysis. Customers to whom coupons are to be issued are set for relatively large segments such as gender, age, traded products, the number of traded products, or the amount of transactions.

[0003] In order to increase the utilization rate of coupons or the ROI (Return On Investment) of coupon planners, it is desired to provide coupons suitable for customers.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technique for providing a coupon suitable for a user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing device according to the embodiment comprises a first acquisition unit, a second acquisition unit, an extraction unit, and an output unit. The first acquisition unit acquires first transaction data relating to a user's first transaction. The second acquisition unit acquires transaction history data including second transaction data relating to one or more second transactions of the user prior to the first transaction. The extraction unit extracts coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data. The output unit outputs information relating to the coupons to be provided to the user. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a coupon server in an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating a POS device according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic receipt server according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating a customer management server according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the data structure of coupon data according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 illustrates the data structure of member code data according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the data structure of the first transaction data according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the data structure of transaction history data according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the data structure of customer data according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing by the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 12]Figure 12 is a flowchart showing a first example of the coupon extraction process by the coupon server processing circuit according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing a second example of the coupon extraction process by the coupon server processing circuit according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing a third example of the coupon extraction process by the coupon server processing circuit according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Several embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the scale of the parts in the drawings used in the following description of embodiments may have been changed as appropriate. Also, for illustrative purposes, some components may be omitted from the drawings used in the following description of embodiments.

[0009] [Embodiment] (Example configuration) Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an information processing system S according to an embodiment. Information processing system S is a system that provides promotions to customers. Promotions are intended to boost sales in stores. Promotions include coupons. Coupons are beneficial perks for customers. For example, coupons may include, but are not limited to, free exchanges for specific products, discounts on specific products, discounts on unspecified products, or point accrual. Here, coupons are used as an example of promotion, but the explanation is not limited to them. Promotions may also include advertising. Advertising is the act of informing customers. For example, advertising may include, but is not limited to, campaigns about new products or events held in stores. In the following explanation, the term "coupon" may be read as "promotion" or "advertising."

[0010] The information processing system S comprises a coupon server 1, a POS (Point of Sales) device 2, an electronic receipt server 3, and a customer management server 4. The coupon server 1, POS device 2, electronic receipt server 3, and customer management server 4 are freely connected to each other via a network NW. The network NW consists of one or more networks from among various networks such as the Internet, mobile communication networks, and LANs (Local Area Networks). The one or more networks may include wireless networks or wired networks.

[0011] Figure 1 illustrates one POS device 2, but the information processing system S may include multiple POS devices 2 installed in one store, or multiple POS devices 2 installed in multiple stores. Figure 1 illustrates one customer management server 4, but the information processing system S may include multiple customer management servers 4 of multiple businesses. The information processing system S is an example of an information processing system that includes at least one of the following: a coupon server 1, a POS device 2, an electronic receipt server 3, and a customer management server 4.

[0012] Coupon Server 1 is an electronic device that supports a coupon service that provides coupons to customers of multiple stores operated by multiple businesses. Businesses include not only retailers but also various other businesses such as those providing food and beverages in stores. Stores can be physical stores or e-commerce (EC) stores. Coupon Server 1 is an example of an information processing device. A configuration example of Coupon Server 1 will be described later.

[0013] The POS device 2 is an electronic device that processes commodity transactions in a store. The POS device 2 is an example of a transaction processing device. A configuration example of the POS device 2 will be described later. Commodities include not only items such as food and clothing but also items other than services and tickets. When the store is a restaurant, the commodities include the commodities provided in the restaurant. A commodity transaction is the transfer of fees from a customer to the store accompanying the sale of commodities by the store. A transaction includes the meaning of commodity sales from the perspective of the store. A transaction includes the meaning of commodity purchases from the perspective of the customer. Processing a transaction includes processing the settlement of the transaction. A settlement is a payment for a transaction. A settlement includes the meaning of accounting. Processing a settlement includes completing the settlement.

[0014] The POS device 2 constructs transaction data for each transaction. Hereinafter, the transaction data configured in the POS device 2 is also referred to as first transaction data. A transaction related to the first transaction data is also referred to as a first transaction. The first transaction data is data related to the first transaction.

[0015] The first transaction data is data after the content of the first transaction is determined. After the content of the first transaction is determined, it is after the completion of the registration of all commodities in the first transaction by the POS device 2. The registration of commodities is also referred to as commodity registration. Commodity registration is the registration of commodities in the first transaction before the processing of the settlement of the first transaction by the POS device 2. The POS device 2 processes commodity registration. For example, processing commodity registration is to update registration data. The registration data includes data for each registered commodity. The items included in the data of the registered commodities may be the same as the items included in the first transaction commodity data described later. Processing commodity registration includes registering new commodities. The POS device 2 may register a new commodity by adding the data of the commodity to the registration data. Processing commodity registration includes additionally registering the same commodity as the registered commodity. The POS device 2 may additionally register a commodity by updating the data of the registered commodity included in the registration data. The registration data after the content of the first transaction is determined is the first transaction data.

[0016] The first transaction data includes transaction product data for each product in the first transaction. Hereinafter, the transaction product data included in the first transaction data will also be referred to as the first transaction product data. The first transaction product data includes data for various items. For example, the first transaction product data includes data for all or some of the following items: first member code, second member code, store code, transaction code, transaction date and time, product code, unit price, quantity, and amount. The first transaction product data may also include data for items other than these.

[0017] The first membership code is a code that uniquely identifies the customer as a member of the business. Hereafter, a member of the business will also be referred to as the first member. The second membership code is a code that uniquely identifies the customer as a member of the electronic receipt service described later. Hereafter, a member of the electronic receipt service will also be referred to as the second member. The store code is a code that uniquely identifies the store related to the first transaction. The transaction code is a code that uniquely identifies the first transaction. The transaction date and time is the date and time of the first transaction. The product code is a code that uniquely identifies the product in the first transaction. The unit price is the price per item in the first transaction. The number of items is the quantity of items in the first transaction. The amount is the amount calculated by multiplying the unit price and the number of items.

[0018] The electronic receipt server 3 is an electronic device that supports an electronic receipt service that provides electronic receipts to multiple second-party members. Businesses that use the electronic receipt service may or may not use coupon services. The electronic receipt server 3 is an example of a transaction history management device. An example configuration of the electronic receipt server 3 will be described later.

[0019] The electronic receipt server 3 manages transaction history data for each second member. The transaction history data includes transaction data for each of one or more transactions. Hereinafter, the transaction data included in the transaction history data will also be referred to as second transaction data. The transaction related to the second transaction data will also be referred to as the second transaction. The second transaction is a transaction that occurred before the first transaction. A transaction that occurred before the first transaction is a transaction that occurred earlier in time than the first transaction. The second transaction data is the data used to construct an electronic receipt for each second transaction.

[0020] The second transaction data is data relating to the second transaction. The second transaction data includes transaction product data for each product in the second transaction. Hereinafter, the transaction product data included in the second transaction data will also be referred to as the second transaction product data. The second transaction product data includes data for various items. For example, the second transaction product data includes data for all or some of the following items: second member code, store code, transaction code, transaction date and time, product code, unit price, number of items, and amount. The second transaction product data may also include data for items other than these. The second member code is, as described above, a code that can uniquely identify the customer as a second member of the electronic receipt service. The store code is a code that can uniquely identify the store relating to the second transaction. The transaction code is a code that can uniquely identify the second transaction. The transaction date and time is the date and time of the second transaction. The product code is a code that can uniquely identify the product in the second transaction. The unit price is the price per item in the second transaction. The "points" represent the quantity of goods in the second transaction. The "amount" is calculated by multiplying the unit price by the "points."

[0021] An electronic receipt is a digitized transaction statement. An electronic receipt is an image that can be displayed on a terminal's screen. For example, the transaction statement includes all or part of the following: information about the transaction store, information about the transaction date and time, information about the transaction items, and information about the total transaction amount. The transaction statement may also include information other than this. For example, information about the transaction store includes the name of the store involved in the transaction. The name of the store involved in the transaction is information that can be obtained based on the store code included in the second transaction item data. Information about the transaction store may also include information other than this. For example, information about the transaction date and time includes the transaction date and time. This is information based on the transaction date and time included in the second transaction item data. Information about the transaction date and time may also include information other than this. For example, information about the transaction items includes all or part of the product code, product name, unit price, quantity, and amount for each item in the transaction. The product code, unit price, quantity, and amount are information that can be obtained based on the product code, unit price, quantity, and amount included in the second transaction item data. The product name is information that can be obtained based on the product code included in the second transaction item data. Information regarding the traded goods may include information other than that specified. Information regarding the total transaction amount includes the total transaction amount. The total transaction amount is the sum of the amounts of each item in a single transaction.

[0022] The customer management server 4 is an electronic device that manages customer data for each of the business operator's multiple primary members. The customer management server 4 is an example of a customer data management device. An example configuration of the customer management server 4 will be described later.

[0023] Customer data is data relating to a customer who becomes a first member. Customer data includes the customer's first member code and customer attribute data. Attribute data is data that indicates attributes. Attributes are customer characteristics that define a customer. Attribute data includes first attribute data. Attribute data also includes second attribute data if it is updated based on transaction history data and at least one of the first attribute data.

[0024] The first attribute data is attribute data set by a setter, such as a customer or retailer. The first attribute data includes data for one or more items of the first attribute set by the setter. For example, the first attribute may be, but is not limited to, gender, age, address, and family structure.

[0025] The second attribute data is data based on at least one of the customer's transaction history data and the customer's first attribute data. The second attribute data is updated based on at least one of the customer's transaction history data and the customer's first attribute data. The fact that the second attribute data is updated based on at least one of the customer's transaction history data and the customer's first attribute data includes the fact that the second attribute data is newly set. The fact that the second attribute data is updated based on at least one of the customer's transaction history data and the customer's first attribute data includes the fact that the second attribute data is changed. Unlike the first attribute data, the second attribute data is data that is not set by the setter. The second attribute data includes data for one or more items of the second attribute based on at least one of the customer's transaction history data and the customer's first attribute data. The second attribute is an attribute that is estimated based on an analysis of at least one of the customer's transaction history data and the customer's first attribute data. The data analysis method may be a known technique. The data for the second attribute item may not only be newly set, but may also be modified, based on at least one of the customer's transaction history data and the customer's first attribute data.

[0026] If the second attribute is based on customer transaction history data, the second attribute includes customer tendencies. For example, customer tendencies are customer preferences. If there are many transactions of seafood, the second attribute regarding seafood preferences may be "likes seafood." On the other hand, if there are few transactions of seafood, the second attribute regarding seafood preferences may be "does not like seafood." If there are many transactions of sweets, the second attribute regarding taste preferences may be "likes sweets." On the other hand, if there are few transactions of sweets, the second attribute regarding taste preferences may be "does not like sweets."

[0027] If the second attribute is based on customer transaction history data, the second attribute includes the customer's living environment. For example, the customer's living environment includes whether or not they have pets and whether or not they own a car. If there are transactions for pet supplies, the second attribute regarding whether or not they have pets is "Yes, they have pets." On the other hand, if there are no transactions for pet supplies, the second attribute regarding whether or not they have pets is "No, they do not have pets." If there are transactions for car supplies, the second attribute regarding whether or not they own a car is "Yes, they own a car." On the other hand, if there are no transactions for car supplies, the second attribute regarding whether or not they own a car is "No, they do not own a car."

[0028] If the second attribute is based on the customer's first attribute data, the second attribute includes the customer's circumstances. For example, the customer's circumstances include whether or not they live in the suburbs. Whether or not they live in the suburbs can be estimated based on the address included in the first attribute data. The criteria for whether or not they live in the suburbs can be set as appropriate.

[0029] Furthermore, the second attribute may be based on both the customer's transaction history data and the customer's first attribute data.

[0030] This section describes an example configuration for Coupon Server 1. Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating coupon server 1.

[0031] Coupon server 1 includes a processing circuit 10, main memory 11, auxiliary storage device 12, and communication interface 13. The processing circuit 10, main memory 11, auxiliary storage device 12, and communication interface 13 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Figure 2, the interface is labeled "I / F".

[0032] The processing circuit 10 corresponds to the central part of the coupon server 1. The processing circuit 10 is an element that constitutes the computer of the coupon server 1. The processing circuit 10 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes by multiple functions. For example, the circuit is a processor, ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), but is not limited to these. For example, the processor is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), but is not limited to these. The processing circuit 10 loads a program that is pre-stored in the main memory 11 or auxiliary storage device 12 into the main memory 11. The program is a program that allows the processing circuit 10 to execute the processing by each part described later. By executing the program loaded into the main memory 11, the processing circuit 10 makes various processes possible.

[0033] Main memory 11 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of coupon server 1. Main memory 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of coupon server 1. Main memory 11 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area of ​​main memory 11, the operating system or programs are stored. Main memory 11 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 10. For example, main memory 11 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, main memory 11 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area. Main memory 11 is an example of the storage unit of coupon server 1.

[0034] The auxiliary storage device 12 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the coupon server 1. The auxiliary storage device 12 includes one or more storage devices. The storage devices are, but are not limited to, EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disc Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory. The auxiliary storage device 12 stores the above-mentioned program, data used by the processing circuit 10 in performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 10.

[0035] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes a coupon data storage area 121. The coupon data storage area 121 is an example of a storage unit of the coupon server 1.

[0036] The coupon data storage area 121 stores coupon data for each issuance condition. The coupon data includes data indicating the issuance condition, the coupon, and one or more alternative coupons, which are associated with each other. The issuance condition is the condition for providing a coupon to a user. The term "user" refers to the customer for whom it is determined whether or not to provide a coupon. The processing circuit 10 can determine whether or not at least one of the user's first transaction data, second transaction data, and attribute data satisfies the issuance condition, based on at least one of the user's first transaction data, second transaction data, and attribute data. At least one of the user's first transaction data, second transaction data, and attribute data satisfying the issuance condition is an example of at least one of the user's first transaction, second transaction, and attribute satisfying the issuance condition. At least one of the user's first transaction, second transaction, and attribute satisfying the issuance condition is an example of the user satisfying the issuance condition. The issuance condition includes at least one of the transaction conditions and attribute conditions.

[0037] Transaction conditions are the conditions for a transaction. Based on the user's first transaction data, the processing circuit 10 can determine whether the first transaction data satisfies the transaction conditions. The first transaction data satisfying the transaction conditions is an example of the user's first transaction satisfying the transaction conditions. The user's first transaction satisfying the transaction conditions is an example of the user satisfying the transaction conditions. Based on the user's second transaction data, the processing circuit 10 can determine whether the second transaction data satisfies the transaction conditions. The second transaction data satisfying the transaction conditions is an example of the user's second transaction satisfying the transaction conditions. The user's second transaction satisfying the transaction conditions is an example of the user satisfying the transaction conditions. Transaction conditions may include at least one of the following conditions: product conditions, point conditions, and monetary conditions.

[0038] Product conditions are the conditions for the goods in a transaction. Product conditions may include the purchase of a specified product. Product conditions may also include the purchase of multiple specified products in a single transaction. Product conditions may also include the purchase of products in a specified category. Product conditions may also include the purchase of multiple specified products in a single transaction.

[0039] The point requirements are the conditions regarding points in a transaction. The point requirements may include purchasing a certain number of specified items. The point requirements may also include purchasing a certain number of specified items or less. The point requirements may also include purchasing a certain number of items from a specified category. The point requirements may also include purchasing a certain number of items from a specified category or less.

[0040] The monetary condition is a condition regarding the amount of money involved in a transaction. The monetary condition allows for purchases of a minimum of ¥〇 in a transaction. The monetary condition allows for purchases of a minimum of ¥〇 in a transaction. The monetary condition allows for purchases of a minimum of ¥〇 in a specified category of goods. The monetary condition allows for purchases of a minimum of ¥〇 in a specified category of goods.

[0041] Attribute conditions are conditions concerning attributes. The processing circuit 10 can determine whether attribute data satisfies attribute conditions based on the user's attribute data. Attribute data satisfying attribute conditions is an example of a user's attributes satisfying attribute conditions. A user's attributes satisfying attribute conditions is an example of a user satisfying attribute conditions. Attribute conditions may include at least one of the first attribute conditions and the second attribute conditions.

[0042] The first attribute condition is a condition for the first attribute. The processing circuit 10 can determine whether the first attribute data satisfies the first attribute condition based on the user's first attribute data. The first attribute data satisfying the first attribute condition is an example of the user's first attribute satisfying the first attribute condition. The user's first attribute satisfying the first attribute condition is an example of the user's attribute satisfying the first attribute condition.

[0043] The first attribute condition may include a gender condition. The gender condition is a condition about gender. The gender condition may also be male. The processing circuit 10 can determine whether the first attribute data satisfies the gender condition based on the gender included in the user's first attribute data. The first attribute condition may also include an age condition. The age condition is a condition about gender. The age condition may also be a specific age group. The processing circuit 10 can determine whether the first attribute data satisfies the age condition based on the age included in the user's first attribute data.

[0044] The second attribute condition is a condition for the second attribute. The processing circuit 10 can determine whether the second attribute data satisfies the second attribute condition based on the user's second attribute data. The second attribute data satisfying the second attribute condition is an example of the user's second attribute satisfying the second attribute condition. The user's second attribute satisfying the second attribute condition is an example of the user's attribute satisfying the second attribute condition.

[0045] The second attribute condition may include preference conditions. Preference conditions may include liking seafood. The processing circuit 10 can determine whether the second attribute data satisfies the preference conditions based on data indicating tendencies included in the user's second attribute data. The second attribute condition may also include living environment conditions. Living environment conditions may include having pets. The processing circuit 10 can determine whether the second attribute data satisfies the living environment conditions based on data indicating the living environment included in the user's second attribute data. The second attribute condition may also include customer situation conditions. Customer situation conditions may include living in the suburbs. The processing circuit 10 can determine whether the second attribute data satisfies the customer situation conditions based on data indicating whether or not the user lives in the suburbs included in the user's second attribute data.

[0046] If the ticketing conditions include multiple conditions, they may include multiple conditions using AND conditions, multiple conditions using OR conditions, or multiple conditions using a combination of AND and OR conditions.

[0047] The coupons included in the coupon data are those extracted by the processing circuit 10 when at least one of the user's first transaction data, second transaction data, and attribute data satisfies the issuance conditions. For example, the coupons may be discounts on beer, but are not limited to these. The coupons included in the coupon data are also called first coupons.

[0048] Alternative coupons included in coupon data are coupons set up as a substitute for the coupon associated with the issuance conditions. The content of the alternative coupon differs from the content of the coupon associated with the issuance conditions. Alternative coupons are set up to enable the provision of coupons suitable for the customer. For example, if the coupon is for a discount on beer, the alternative coupon may be for a different product, such as a discount on sake or whiskey. An alternative coupon is an example of a coupon that is different from the original coupon. An alternative coupon is also called a second coupon.

[0049] The communication interface 13 includes various interfaces that enable the coupon server 1 to communicate with other electronic devices via a network NW, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0050] The hardware configuration of Coupon Server 1 is not limited to the configuration described above. Coupon Server 1 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-described components and add new components.

[0051] The various parts implemented by the processing circuit 10 will now be described. The processing circuit 10 implements a first acquisition unit 101, a second acquisition unit 102, a third acquisition unit 103, a data processing unit 104, an extraction unit 105, and an output unit 106. Each part implemented by the processing circuit 10 can also be called a function. Each part implemented by the processing circuit 10 can also be said to be implemented in the control unit which includes the processing circuit 10 and the main memory 11.

[0052] The first acquisition unit 101 acquires first transaction data relating to the user's first transaction. The second acquisition unit 102 acquires the user's transaction history data. The user's transaction history data includes second transaction data for each of the user's one or more second transactions that occurred prior to the first transaction. The third acquisition unit 103 acquires user attribute data. The user attribute data includes the user's first attribute data. The user's first attribute data is attribute data set by the user or a setter such as a retailer. The user's first attribute data includes data for one or more first attribute items set by the user or a setter such as a retailer. If the user's attribute data has been updated based on the user's transaction history data, it also includes the user's second attribute data. The user's second attribute data is data based on the user's transaction history data. The user's second attribute data includes data for one or more second attribute items based on the user's transaction history data.

[0053] The data processing unit 104 processes the updating of user attribute data based on the user's transaction history data. The extraction unit 105 extracts coupons to be provided to the user. The output unit 106 outputs information, data, or requests. For example, the output unit 106 outputs information about coupons to be provided to the user. For example, information about coupons is information that indicates a coupon. Hereafter, information about coupons will also be referred to as coupon information.

[0054] An example configuration of POS device 2 will be described. Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the POS device 2.

[0055] The POS device 2 includes a processing circuit 20, main memory 21, auxiliary storage device 22, change dispenser interface 23, communication interface 24, scanner 25, input device 26, display device 27, printing device 28, and reader 29. The processing circuit 20, main memory 21, auxiliary storage device 22, change dispenser interface 23, communication interface 24, scanner 25, input device 26, display device 27, printing device 28, and reader 29 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Figure 3, the interface is labeled "I / F".

[0056] The processing circuit 20 corresponds to the central part of the POS device 2. The processing circuit 20 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS device 2. Like the processing circuit 10, the processing circuit 20 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes with multiple functions.

[0057] Main memory 21 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the POS device 2. Main memory 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the POS device 2. Main memory 21 may be configured in the same way as main memory 11. Main memory 21 is an example of the storage unit of the POS device 2.

[0058] The auxiliary storage device 22 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the POS device 2. Like the auxiliary storage device 12, the auxiliary storage device 22 includes one or more storage devices.

[0059] The auxiliary storage device 22 includes a member code storage area 221. The member code storage area 221 is an example of a storage unit of the POS device 2. The member code storage area 221 stores member code data for each first member code. The member code data includes the first member code and the second member code that are associated with each other. The data stored in the member code storage area 221 can be updated as appropriate based on additions or deletions of member code data, etc.

[0060] The auxiliary storage device 22 includes a first transaction data storage area 222. The first transaction data storage area 222 is an example of a storage unit of the POS device 2. The first transaction data storage area 222 stores the first transaction data. The data stored in the first transaction data storage area 222 can be updated for each first transaction. The first transaction data may also be stored in the main memory 21.

[0061] The change dispenser interface 23 performs data signal input and output with the automatic change dispenser. For example, the change dispenser interface 23 receives deposit amount data from the automatic change dispenser. The change dispenser interface 23 outputs change amount data to the automatic change dispenser. The automatic change dispenser dispenses banknotes or coins equivalent to the change amount according to the change amount data.

[0062] The communication interface 24 includes various interfaces that enable the POS device 2 to communicate with other electronic devices via a network NW, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0063] Scanner 25 is a device that reads various code symbols and obtains information from them. For example, a code symbol may be a barcode symbol or a two-dimensional code symbol. A code symbol may also include a product code symbol that records a product code. A product code symbol is an image attached to the product. A code symbol may also include a code symbol that records a membership code. A membership code is identification information that uniquely identifies a member. A code symbol that records a membership code may be an image attached to a card or an image that can be displayed on the customer's terminal screen. A code symbol may also include a code symbol for code payment.

[0064] The input device 26 is a device that can input information into the POS device 2. For example, the input device 26 may include a keyboard. The input device 26 may also form a touchscreen together with the display device 27.

[0065] The display device 27 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 20. For example, the display device 27 may be a liquid crystal display or an electroluminescent (EL) display.

[0066] The printing device 28 is a device for issuing printed materials by printing on a medium. For example, the medium is paper. For example, the printing device 28 is a thermal printer or an inkjet printer. For example, the printed material includes a medium for receipts or invoices showing transaction details. The printed material includes a medium on which coupons based on coupon information are printed.

[0067] The reader 29 is a device that reads card data recorded on a card medium. The reader 29 may include a contact-type reader that reads card data recorded on the magnetic stripe of the card medium. The reader 29 may also include a contactless reader that reads card data recorded on an IC (Integrated Circuit) tag of the card medium. The IC tag includes an IC chip and an antenna.

[0068] The hardware configuration of POS device 2 is not limited to the configuration described above. POS device 2 allows for the omission and modification of the above-mentioned components, as well as the addition of new components, as appropriate.

[0069] This section describes an example configuration for the electronic receipt server 3. Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating the electronic receipt server 3.

[0070] The electronic receipt server 3 includes a processing circuit 30, a main memory 31, an auxiliary storage device 32, and a communication interface 33. The processing circuit 30, the main memory 31, the auxiliary storage device 32, and the communication interface 33 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Figure 4, the interface is labeled "I / F".

[0071] The processing circuit 30 corresponds to the central part of the electronic receipt server 3. The processing circuit 30 is an element that constitutes the computer of the electronic receipt server 3. Like the processing circuit 10, the processing circuit 30 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes with multiple functions.

[0072] The main memory 31 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the electronic receipt server 3. The main memory 31 is an element that constitutes the computer of the electronic receipt server 3. The main memory 31 may be configured in the same way as the main memory 11. The main memory 31 is an example of the storage unit of the electronic receipt server 3.

[0073] The auxiliary storage device 32 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the electronic receipt server 3. Like the auxiliary storage device 12, the auxiliary storage device 32 includes one or more storage devices.

[0074] The auxiliary storage device 32 includes a transaction history data storage area 321. The transaction history data storage area 321 is an example of a storage unit of the electronic receipt server 3. The transaction history data storage area 321 stores transaction history data associated with a second member code for each second member. The data stored in the transaction history data storage area 321 can be updated as appropriate based on additions or deletions of second transaction data, etc.

[0075] The communication interface 33 includes various interfaces that enable the electronic receipt server 3 to communicate with other electronic devices via a network NW, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0076] The hardware configuration of the electronic receipt server 3 is not limited to the configuration described above. The electronic receipt server 3 allows for the omission and modification of the above-mentioned components, as well as the addition of new components, as appropriate.

[0077] This section describes an example configuration for customer management server 4. Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating the customer management server 4.

[0078] The customer management server 4 includes a processing circuit 40, main memory 41, auxiliary storage device 42, and communication interface 43. The processing circuit 40, main memory 41, auxiliary storage device 42, and communication interface 43 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Figure 5, the interface is labeled "I / F".

[0079] The processing circuit 40 corresponds to the central part of the customer management server 4. The processing circuit 40 is an element that constitutes the computer of the customer management server 4. Like the processing circuit 10, the processing circuit 40 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes with multiple functions.

[0080] Main memory 41 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the customer management server 4. Main memory 41 is an element that constitutes the computer of the customer management server 4. Main memory 41 may be configured in a similar manner to main memory 41. Main memory 41 is an example of the storage unit of the customer management server 4.

[0081] The auxiliary storage device 42 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the customer management server 4. Like the auxiliary storage device 12, the auxiliary storage device 42 includes one or more storage devices.

[0082] The auxiliary storage device 42 includes a customer data storage area 421. The customer data storage area 421 is an example of the storage unit of the customer management server 4. The customer data storage area 421 stores customer data for each first member. The data stored in the customer data storage area 421 can be updated as appropriate based on additions, deletions, or updates to customer data.

[0083] The communication interface 43 includes various interfaces that enable the customer management server 4 to communicate with other electronic devices via a network NW, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0084] The hardware configuration of customer management server 4 is not limited to the configuration described above. Customer management server 4 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-mentioned components and add new components.

[0085] Let me explain the coupon data. Figure 6 illustrates the data structure of coupon data. The coupon data storage area 121 of the coupon server 1 stores coupon data for each ticketing condition.

[0086] Coupon data includes data indicating the issuance conditions, the coupon, and one or more alternative coupons, which are associated with each other. The issuance conditions include at least one of the following conditions: transaction conditions and attribute conditions. Transaction conditions may include at least one of the following conditions: product conditions, point conditions, and amount conditions. Attribute conditions may include at least one of the following conditions: first attribute conditions and second attribute conditions.

[0087] This explains the member code data. Figure 7 illustrates the data structure of member code data. The member code storage area 221 of the POS device 2 stores member code data for each first member code. The member code data includes the first member code and the second member code, which are associated with each other.

[0088] Let's explain the first transaction data. Figure 8 illustrates the data structure of the first transaction data. The first transaction data storage area 222 of the POS device 2 stores the first transaction data. The first transaction data includes the first transaction product data for each product in the first transaction. The first transaction product data includes data for all or some of the following items: first member code, second member code, store code, transaction code, transaction date and time, product code, unit price, quantity, and amount.

[0089] Let's explain the transaction history data. Figure 9 illustrates the data structure of transaction history data. The transaction history data storage area 321 stores transaction history data associated with a second member code for each second member. Transaction history data includes second transaction data for each of one or more second transactions. Second transaction data includes second transaction product data for each product in the second transaction. Second transaction product data includes data for all or some of the following items: second member code, store code, transaction code, transaction date and time, product code, unit price, quantity, and amount.

[0090] Let me explain customer data. Figure 10 is an example of the data structure of customer data. The customer data storage area 421 of the customer management server 4 stores customer data for each first member.

[0091] Customer data includes the customer's first membership code and customer attribute data. Attribute data includes first attribute data and second attribute data. Attribute data may include either first attribute data or second attribute data.

[0092] (Example of operation) This section describes the processing performed by the information processing system S. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate.

[0093] Figure 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing by the information processing system S. The processing circuit 20 of the POS device 2 processes product registration for a user's transaction (ACT 21). In ACT 21, for example, the processing circuit 20 obtains the product code of a product based on the reading of the product's code symbol by the scanner 25. The processing circuit 20 may also obtain the product code of a product based on the selection of a product using the input device 26. The processing circuit 20 refers to master data containing data for various items of each product and processes product registration based on the obtained product code of the product. The processing circuit 20 may also process product registration by updating the registration data stored in the auxiliary storage device 22 or the main memory 21.

[0094] The processing circuit 20 of the POS device 2 outputs the user's first transaction data to the coupon server 1 via the network NW using the communication interface 24 (ACT22). In ACT22, for example, the processing circuit 20 outputs the first transaction data based on an instruction to confirm the contents of the first transaction input via the input device 26. The instruction to confirm the contents of the first transaction is also an instruction to complete the registration of all products in the first transaction. The instruction to confirm the contents of the first transaction is also an instruction to transition the POS device 2 from product registration processing to settlement processing. The processing circuit 20 may output the first transaction data after the contents of the first transaction have been confirmed but before the settlement of the first transaction is completed. The processing circuit 20 may output the first transaction data after the contents of the first transaction have been confirmed but after the settlement of the first transaction is completed.

[0095] The processing circuit 10 of the coupon server 1 acquires the user's first transaction data from the POS device 2 via the network NW using the communication interface 13 (ACT 11). The processing of ACT 11 may also be performed by the first acquisition unit 101. The processing circuit 10 stores the user's first transaction data in the main memory 11 or the auxiliary storage device 12.

[0096] The processing circuit 10 of the coupon server 1 outputs a data request via the network NW using the communication interface 13 (ACT12). The processing of ACT12 may also be performed by the output unit 106. In ACT12, for example, the processing circuit 10 outputs a request for user transaction history data to the electronic receipt server 3. The request for user transaction history data includes the user's second membership code. The user's second membership code is the second membership code included in the user's first transaction data. The processing circuit 10 also outputs a request for user attribute data to the customer management server 4. The request for user attribute data includes the user's first membership code. The user's first membership code is the first membership code included in the user's first transaction data.

[0097] The processing circuit 30 of the electronic receipt server 3 obtains a request for user transaction history data from the coupon server 1 via the network NW using the communication interface 33 (ACT 31). Based on the user's second membership code, the processing circuit 30 extracts the user's transaction history data from the transaction history data storage area 321.

[0098] The processing circuit 30 of the electronic receipt server 3 outputs the user's transaction history data to the coupon server 1 via the network NW using the communication interface 33 (ACT 32).

[0099] The processing circuit 10 of the coupon server 1 acquires the user's transaction history data from the electronic receipt server 3 via the network NW using the communication interface 13 (ACT 13). The processing of ACT 13 may also be performed by the second acquisition unit 102. The processing circuit 10 stores the user's transaction history data in the main memory 11 or the auxiliary storage device 12.

[0100] The processing circuit 40 of the customer management server 4 obtains a request for user attribute data from the coupon server 1 via the network NW using the communication interface 43 (ACT 41). The processing circuit 40 extracts the user's attribute data from the customer data storage area 421 based on the user's first member code.

[0101] The processing circuit 40 of the customer management server 4 outputs user attribute data to the coupon server 1 via the network NW using the communication interface 43 (ACT 42).

[0102] The processing circuit 10 of the coupon server 1 acquires user attribute data from the customer management server 4 via the network NW using the communication interface 13 (ACT 14). The processing of ACT 14 may also be performed by the third acquisition unit 103. The processing circuit 10 stores the user attribute data in the main memory 11 or the auxiliary storage device 12.

[0103] The processing circuit 10 of the coupon server 1 processes the update of the user's attribute data based on at least one of the user's transaction history data and the user's first attribute data (ACT 15). The processing in ACT 15 may also be performed by the data processing unit 104. In ACT 15, for example, the processing circuit 10 estimates one or more second attributes based on the analysis of at least one of the user's transaction history data and the user's first attribute data. The processing circuit 10 updates the user's attribute data so that the second attribute data of the user included in the user's attribute data includes one or more estimated second attributes. The updated user attribute data includes the first attribute data, as well as the second attribute data based on at least one of the user's transaction history data and the user's first attribute data. The processing circuit 10 uses the communication interface 13 to output a request to update the user's attribute data to the customer management server 4 via the network NW. The update request is a request for the customer management server 4 to update the user's attribute data. An update request may include updated user attribute data or one or more newly estimated second attributes. Outputting an update request is one example of processing an update to user attribute data.

[0104] The processing circuit 40 of the customer management server 4 receives a request to update user attribute data from the coupon server 1 via the network NW using the communication interface 43 (ACT 43). Based on the update request, the processing circuit 40 updates the user attribute data stored in the customer data storage area 421. The updated user attribute data includes first attribute data and second attribute data based on at least one of the user's transaction history data and the user's first attribute data.

[0105] The processing circuit 10 of the coupon server 1 extracts coupons to be provided to the user (ACT16). The processing in ACT16 may also be performed by the extraction unit 105. In ACT16, for example, the processing circuit 10 extracts coupons to be provided to the user based on the user's first transaction data and the user's transaction history data. The processing in ACT16 will be described later.

[0106] The processing circuit 10 of the coupon server 1 uses the communication interface 13 to output coupon information regarding coupons to be provided to the user to the POS device 2 via the network NW (ACT 17).

[0107] The processing circuit 20 of the POS device 2 obtains coupon information from the coupon server 1 via the network NW using the communication interface 24 (ACT 23).

[0108] The processing circuit 20 of the POS device 2 uses the printing device 28 to issue a printed document with a coupon based on the coupon information (ACT24).

[0109] The first example of the coupon extraction process in ACT16 described above will be explained. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing a first example of the coupon extraction process by the processing circuit 10 of the coupon server 1. In the first example, extracting coupons to be offered to a user based on the user's first transaction data and the user's transaction history data includes extracting a first coupon based on the first transaction data. Extracting coupons to be offered to a user based on the user's first transaction data and the user's transaction history data includes extracting either a first coupon or a second coupon as coupons to be offered to the user based on the transaction history data. Furthermore, extracting coupons to be offered to a user based on the user's first transaction data and the user's transaction history data includes extracting both a first coupon and a second coupon as coupons to be offered to the user based on the transaction history data.

[0110] The processing circuit 10 determines whether or not there is a first coupon based on the user's first transaction data (ACT1611). The first coupon based on the user's first transaction data is the first coupon associated with the issuance conditions, in cases where it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based at least on the user's first transaction data. The case where it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based at least on the user's first transaction data includes cases where it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based only on the user's first transaction data. The case where it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based at least on the user's first transaction data includes cases where it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based on both the user's first transaction data and the user's attribute data.

[0111] In ACT1611, for example, the processing circuit 10 determines, based on at least the first transaction data, whether at least the first transaction data satisfies the issuance conditions for each issuance condition. The processing circuit 10 may also determine, based on the first transaction data, whether at least the first transaction data satisfies the issuance conditions for each issuance condition. The processing circuit 10 may also determine, based on the first transaction data and attribute data, whether at least the first transaction data and attribute data satisfy the issuance conditions for each issuance condition. If the processing circuit 10 determines, based on at least the first transaction data, that the issuance conditions are met, it determines that there is a first coupon based on the user's first transaction data. If the processing circuit 10 determines, based on at least the first transaction data, that none of the issuance conditions are met, it determines that there is no first coupon based on the user's first transaction data.

[0112] If there is no first coupon based on the user's first transaction data (ACT1611, NO), the process terminates. In this case, the processing circuit 10 does not extract any coupons to offer to the user. If there is a first coupon based on the user's first transaction data (ACT1611, YES), the process transitions from ACT1611 to ACT1612.

[0113] The processing circuit 10 extracts a first coupon based on the user's first transaction data from the coupon data storage area 121 (ACT1612).

[0114] The processing circuit 10 determines, based on the user's transaction history data, whether to change the first coupon to a second coupon, which is an alternative coupon, as the coupon to be provided to the user (ACT1613). In ACT1613, for example, the processing circuit 10 determines whether to change the first coupon to a second coupon based on the second transaction data for each of the one or more second transactions included in a predetermined period of the user's transaction history data. The predetermined period is an arbitrarily set period going back from the present. The predetermined period can be set as appropriate. By limiting it to the predetermined period, the coupon server 1 can provide coupons suitable for the user according to the content of the user's recent transactions.

[0115] Let's take the example of a case where the first coupon is a discount on beer and the second coupon is a discount on sake. If the predetermined period includes beer transactions but no sake transactions, the processing circuit 10 may decide to change the coupon offered to the user from the first coupon to the second coupon. This is because the user already owns beer, and is therefore more likely to be interested in the sake coupon than the beer coupon. If the predetermined period includes many beer transactions, the processing circuit 10 may decide not to change the first coupon to the second coupon. The processing circuit 10 may decide not to change the coupon offered to the user from the first coupon to the second coupon. This is because the user is likely to be a beer lover, and is therefore more likely to be interested in the beer coupon than the sake coupon.

[0116] If the processing circuit 10 determines that it will not change the first coupon to the second coupon (ACT1613, NO), the process transitions from ACT1613 to ACT1614. If the processing circuit 10 determines that it will change the first coupon to the second coupon (ACT1613, YES), the process transitions from ACT1613 to ACT1615. The processing circuit 10 extracts either the first coupon or the second coupon to be offered to the user based on the user's transaction history data, as in ACT1614 or ACT1615.

[0117] The processing circuit 10 extracts the first coupon from the coupon data storage area 121 as a coupon to be provided to the user (ACT1614). The processing circuit 10 extracts the second coupon from the coupon data storage area 121 as a coupon to be provided to the user (ACT1615).

[0118] In ACT1611, the processing circuit 10 determines whether or not there is a first coupon based on the user's first transaction data, but is not limited to this. The processing circuit 10 may also determine whether or not there is a first coupon based on the user's attribute data. The user's attribute data includes the user's first attribute data. The user's attribute data may or may not include the user's second attribute data. The first coupon based on the user's attribute data is the first coupon associated with the issuance conditions when it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based on at least the user's attribute data. When it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based on at least the user's attribute data, this includes cases where the issuance conditions are met based only on the user's attribute data. When it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based on at least the user's attribute data, this includes cases where the issuance conditions are met based on both the user's attribute data and the user's first transaction data. In ACT1612, the processing circuit 10 extracts the first coupon based on the user's attribute data from the coupon data storage area 121.

[0119] Although an example has been described in which the processing circuit 10 extracts either the first coupon or the second coupon from the coupon data storage area 121 as coupons to be provided to the user, it is not limited to this. The processing circuit 10 may also extract the first coupon and the second coupon from the coupon data storage area 121 as coupons to be provided to the user based on the user's transaction history data. If the user is likely to be interested in both the first coupon and the second coupon based on the transaction history data, the processing circuit 10 may decide to provide the user with both the first coupon and the second coupon based on the user's transaction history data.

[0120] According to the first example, the coupon server 1 can extract at least one of the first coupon and the second coupon as coupons to be offered to the user based on the user's transaction history data. Coupon Server 1 can refer to the user's past transaction history and provide a coupon suitable for the user from among multiple coupons, based on the user's transaction trends.

[0121] The second coupon is a coupon that is set up as a replacement for the first coupon. Because multiple coupons are set as the ticketing conditions, coupon server 1 can provide the user with the coupon that is most suitable from among the multiple coupons.

[0122] The second example of the coupon extraction process in ACT16 described above will now be explained. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing a second example of the coupon extraction process by the processing circuit 10 of the coupon server 1. In the second example, extracting coupons to be provided to a user based on the user's first transaction data and the user's transaction history data includes extracting coupons based on the first transaction data as coupons to be provided to the user if there are coupons based on the first transaction data. Extracting coupons to be provided to a user based on the user's first transaction data and the user's transaction history data also includes extracting coupons based on the second transaction data as coupons to be provided to the user if there are coupons based on the second transaction data in the transaction history data that have not been used to provide coupons to the user.

[0123] The processing circuit 10 determines whether or not there is a coupon based on the user's first transaction data (ACT1621). The processing of ACT1621 is the same as the processing of ACT1611. The processing of ACT1621 may also be applied by replacing the notation "first coupon" in the explanation of ACT1611 with "coupon".

[0124] If there are no coupons based on the user's first transaction data (ACT1621, NO), the process transitions from ACT1621 to ACT1623. If there are coupons based on the user's first transaction data (ACT1621, YES), the process transitions from ACT1621 to ACT1622.

[0125] The processing circuit 10 extracts coupons based on the first transaction data from the coupon data storage area 121 as coupons to be provided to the user (ACT1622).

[0126] The processing circuit 10 determines whether or not there are coupons based on second transaction data that have not been used to provide coupons to the user (ACT1623). Second transaction data that has not been used to provide coupons to the user is second transaction data that has not been determined by the processing circuit 10 to determine whether or not there are coupons based on the second transaction data. In this example, the second transaction data is second transaction data from a store operated by a business that does not use the coupon service but uses the electronic receipt service. This allows the coupon server 1 to provide the user with coupons corresponding to past transactions at stores operated by businesses that do not use the coupon service but use the electronic receipt service, at least at the time of transactions at stores operated by businesses that use the coupon service (including businesses that use only the coupon service but do not use the electronic receipt service). Second transaction data that has not been used to provide coupons to the user may be second transaction data that has not met the issuance conditions in the past, even though the processing circuit 10 has determined whether or not there are coupons based on the second transaction data. In this example, the second transaction data is second transaction data from a store operated by a business that uses both the coupon service and the electronic receipt service. As a result, the coupon server 1 can provide users with coupons corresponding to past transactions at stores operated by businesses using the coupon service and electronic receipt service, at least at the time of transactions at stores operated by businesses using the coupon service. Since the issuance conditions are updated, the coupon server 1 can provide users with coupons that are suitable for them according to their past transactions. The transaction history data storage area 321 may store information for each second transaction data indicating whether or not it was used to provide a coupon to a user.

[0127] A coupon based on a user's second transaction data is a coupon associated with the issuance conditions, provided that the issuance conditions are determined to be met based on at least the user's second transaction data. The case where the issuance conditions are determined to be met based on at least the user's second transaction data includes cases where the issuance conditions are determined to be met based solely on the user's second transaction data. The case where the issuance conditions are determined to be met based on at least the user's second transaction data includes cases where the issuance conditions are determined to be met based on both the user's second transaction data and the user's attribute data.

[0128] In ACT1623, for example, the processing circuit 10 determines whether there are coupons based on second transaction data that have not been used to provide coupons to users within a predetermined period from the transaction history data. The predetermined period is an arbitrarily set period going backward from the present. The predetermined period can be set as appropriate. By limiting it to the predetermined period, the coupon server 1 can provide coupons suitable for users according to the content of recent user transactions. For example, the processing circuit 10 determines, for each issuance condition, whether at least the second transaction data satisfies the issuance conditions, based on at least the second transaction data. The processing circuit 10 may also determine, for each issuance condition, whether the second transaction data satisfies the issuance conditions, based on the second transaction data and attribute data. If the processing circuit 10 determines that the issuance conditions are met based on at least the second transaction data, it determines that there are coupons based on the user's second transaction data. If the processing circuit 10 determines that none of the issuance conditions are met based on at least the second transaction data, it determines that there are no coupons based on the user's second transaction data.

[0129] If there are no coupons based on the user's second transaction data (ACT1623, NO), the process terminates. If there are no coupons based on either the user's first transaction data or the user's second transaction data, the processing circuit 10 does not extract any coupons to offer to the user. If there are coupons based on the user's second transaction data (ACT1623, YES), the process transitions from ACT1623 to ACT1624.

[0130] The processing circuit 10 extracts coupons based on the second transaction data from the coupon data storage area 121 as coupons to be provided to the user (ACT1624).

[0131] According to the second example, coupon server 1 can extract coupons based on the user's second transaction data as coupons to be provided to the user. Coupon server 1 can provide users with coupons suitable for them by using second transaction data that is not used to provide coupons to users, in addition to the first transaction data or attribute data.

[0132] A third example of the coupon extraction process in ACT16 described above will be explained. Figure 14 is a flowchart showing a third example of the coupon extraction process by the processing circuit 10 of the coupon server 1. In the explanation of the third example, the term "user attribute data" refers to "updated user attribute data."

[0133] In the third example, extracting coupons to offer to a user based on the user's first transaction data and the user's transaction history data includes extracting coupons to offer to a user based on the user's first transaction data and the user's attribute data.

[0134] Extracting coupons to be offered to a user based on the user's first transaction data and user attribute data includes extracting coupons based on the first transaction data as coupons to be offered to the user if coupons based on the first transaction data exist. Extracting coupons to be offered to a user based on the user's first transaction data and user attribute data includes extracting coupons based on attribute data as coupons to be offered to the user if coupons based on attribute data exist.

[0135] The processing circuit 10 determines whether or not there is a coupon based on the user's first transaction data (ACT1631). The processing of ACT1631 is the same as the processing of ACT1611. The processing of ACT1631 may also be applied by replacing the notation "first coupon" in the explanation of ACT1611 with "coupon".

[0136] If there are no coupons based on the user's first transaction data (ACT1631, NO), the process transitions from ACT1631 to ACT1633. If there are coupons based on the user's first transaction data (ACT1631, YES), the process transitions from ACT1631 to ACT1632.

[0137] The processing circuit 10 extracts coupons based on the first transaction data from the coupon data storage area 121 as coupons to be provided to the user (ACT1632).

[0138] The processing circuit 10 determines whether or not there is a coupon based on the user's attribute data (ACT1633). A coupon based on the user's attribute data is a coupon associated with the issuance conditions, in cases where it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based at least on the user's attribute data. The case where it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based at least on the user's attribute data includes cases where the issuance conditions are met based solely on the user's attribute data. The case where it is determined that the issuance conditions are met based at least on the user's attribute data includes cases where the issuance conditions are met based on both the user's attribute data and the user's first transaction data.

[0139] In ACT1633, for example, the processing circuit 10 determines, for each issuance condition, whether the user's attribute data satisfies the issuance condition, based on at least the user's attribute data. The processing circuit 10 may also determine, for each issuance condition, whether the user's attribute data satisfies the issuance condition, based on the user's attribute data. The processing circuit 10 may also determine, for each issuance condition, whether the user's attribute data and the user's first transaction data satisfy the issuance condition. If the processing circuit 10 determines, based on at least the user's attribute data, that the issuance condition is satisfied, it determines that there is a coupon based on the user's attribute data. If the processing circuit 10 determines, based on at least the user's attribute data, that none of the issuance conditions are satisfied, it determines that there is no coupon based on the user's attribute data.

[0140] If there are no coupons based on the user's attribute data (ACT1633, NO), the process terminates. If there are no coupons based on the user's first transaction data and no coupons based on the user's attribute data, the processing circuit 10 does not extract any coupons to offer to the user. If there are coupons based on the user's attribute data (ACT1633, YES), the process transitions from ACT1633 to ACT1634.

[0141] The processing circuit 10 extracts coupons from the coupon data storage area 121 as coupons to be provided to the user based on the user's attribute data (ACT1634).

[0142] According to the third example, the coupon server 1 can extract coupons to offer to the user based on attribute data updated based on at least one of the user's transaction history data and the user's first attribute data. Attribute data is updated as needed based on the user's transaction history data, and therefore reflects the user's attributes according to their past transaction history. As a result, coupon server 1 can use attribute data to provide coupons that are suitable for the user according to their transaction trends.

[0143] User attribute data may include first attribute data set by the user and second attribute data based on at least one of the user's transaction history data and the user's first attribute data. Coupon server 1 can provide coupons suitable for the user by utilizing various user attributes.

[0144] (modified version) The above description illustrates an example in which POS device 2 issues printed coupons based on coupon information, but is not limited to this. Coupons may also be provided to the user as electronic coupons. An electronic coupon is an digitized image of a coupon that can be displayed on the terminal's display. In this example, coupon information may also be information for electronic coupons. Coupon server 1 may output coupon information to the user's terminal instead of POS device 2. Coupon server 1 may output coupon information to a server that processes electronic coupons.

[0145] The above description illustrates an example where user attribute data includes both first and second attribute data, provided that the user's attribute data is updated based on at least one of the user's transaction history data and the user's first attribute data. However, the description is not limited to this example. User attribute data does not necessarily have to include the first attribute data.

[0146] In the above explanation, a POS device 2 having product registration and payment functions, in which a store employee intervenes in product registration and payment, was used as an example of a transaction processing device, but it is not limited to this. A transaction processing device may also be a POS device having product registration and payment functions, in which customers can register and pay for products without the intervention of a store employee. A transaction processing device may also be a registration device having a product registration function, in which a store employee intervenes in product registration. In this example, payment may be made by the customer at a payment device. Coupon server 1 may output coupon information to the payment device. A transaction processing device may also be a device having a product registration function, in which customers register products. The device in which customers register products may be a dedicated terminal mounted on a shopping cart, a mobile terminal provided in advance by the store, etc., or a mobile terminal owned by the customer. In this example, payment may be made by the customer at a payment device. Coupon server 1 may output coupon information to the payment device.

[0147] In the above description, POS device 2 was described using a device installed at the cashier's counter of a store as an example, but it is not limited to this. POS device 2 may also be a server that does not have a change dispenser interface 23, scanner 25, input device 26, display device 27, printing device 28, and reader 29. In this example, a device capable of communicating with POS device 2 may be installed in the store and used for processing transactions. The device capable of communicating with POS device 2 may be a dedicated device, a tablet terminal, a mobile terminal, etc. The device capable of communicating with POS device 2 may have some or all of the change dispenser interface 23, scanner 25, input device 26, display device 27, printing device 28, and reader 29 built-in or externally.

[0148] According to this embodiment, the coupon server 1 can extract coupons to be provided to the user based on the user's first transaction data and the user's transaction history data. Coupon Server 1 can provide users with coupons tailored to their needs by referencing not only the current user's transaction history but also their past transaction history. By providing users with suitable coupons, Coupon Server 1 can increase the coupon utilization rate or the ROI of the coupon creator.

[0149] [Other embodiments] The information processing device may be implemented as a single device, as explained using coupon server 1 as an example, or it may be implemented as multiple devices with distributed functions.

[0150] The embodiments described above may be applied to methods performed by the device. The embodiments described above may be applied to a program that can cause the device's computer to perform each function. The embodiments described above may be applied to a recording medium that stores the program.

[0151] Each of the one or more circuits that make up a processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs some of the multiple processes. Some of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. If the processing circuit consists of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be contained in a single device, or they may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0152] The program may be transferred while stored in the device according to the embodiment, or it may be transferred without being stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium can be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0153] 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.

[0154] Some of the embodiments described above may be expressed as follows: (1) A first acquisition unit that acquires first transaction data relating to a user's first transaction, A second acquisition unit that acquires transaction history data including second transaction data for each of the user's one or more second transactions prior to the first transaction, An extraction unit that extracts coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data, An output unit that outputs information regarding the coupon to be provided to the user, An information processing device equipped with the following features. (2) Extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data includes extracting a first coupon based on the first transaction data and extracting at least one of the first coupon and a second coupon different from the first coupon based on the transaction history data as a coupon to be provided to the user, as described in (1). (3) The information processing device described in (2), wherein the second coupon is a coupon set as a substitute for the first coupon. (4) The information processing device according to (1), wherein extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data includes, if there are coupons based on the first transaction data, extracting coupons based on the first transaction data as coupons to be provided to the user, and if there are coupons based on second transaction data from the transaction history data that have not been used to provide coupons to the user, extracting coupons based on second transaction data as coupons to be provided to the user. (5) The system further comprises a data processing unit that processes the updating of the user's attribute data based on the transaction history data, Extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data includes extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the user's updated attribute data. (1) The information processing device described above. (6) The information processing device according to (5), wherein the updated attribute data of the user includes first attribute data set by the setter, and second attribute data based on at least one of the transaction history data and the first attribute data. (7) Transaction processing equipment and A first acquisition unit that acquires first transaction data relating to a user's first transaction from the transaction processing device, A second acquisition unit that acquires transaction history data including second transaction data for each of the user's one or more second transactions prior to the first transaction, An extraction unit that extracts coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data, An output unit that outputs information regarding the coupon to be provided to the user, An information processing device equipped with, An information processing system equipped with the following features. (8) To the computer, A function to retrieve the first transaction data related to the user's first transaction, A function to obtain transaction history data including second transaction data for each of the user's one or more second transactions prior to the first transaction, A function for extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data, A function to output information regarding coupons to be provided to the aforementioned user, A program that can execute [this action]. [Explanation of symbols]

[0155] 1...Coupon server, 2...POS device, 3...Electronic receipt server, 4...Customer management server, 10...Processing circuit, 11...Main memory, 12...Auxiliary storage device, 13...Communication interface, 20...Processing circuit, 21...Main memory, 22...Auxiliary storage device, 23...Cash dispenser interface, 24...Communication interface, 25...Scanner, 26...Input device, 27...Display device, 28...Printing device, 29...Reader, 30...Processing circuit, 31...Main memory, 32...Auxiliary storage device 33...Communication interface, 40...Processing circuit, 41...Main memory, 42...Auxiliary storage device, 43...Communication interface, 101...First acquisition unit, 102...Second acquisition unit, 103...Third acquisition unit, 104...Data processing unit, 105...Extraction unit, 106...Output unit, 121...Coupon data storage area, 221...Member code storage area, 222...First transaction data storage area, 321...Transaction history data storage area, 421...Customer data storage area, NW...Network, S...Information processing system.

Claims

1. A first acquisition unit that acquires first transaction data relating to a user's first transaction, A second acquisition unit that acquires transaction history data including second transaction data for each of the user's one or more second transactions prior to the first transaction, An extraction unit that extracts coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data, An output unit that outputs information regarding the coupon to be provided to the user, Equipped with, Extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data includes extracting a first coupon based on the first transaction data and extracting at least one of the first coupon and a second coupon different from the first coupon as coupons to be provided to the user based on the transaction history data. Information processing device.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second coupon is a coupon set as a substitute for the first coupon.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data includes, if there are coupons based on the first transaction data, extracting coupons based on the first transaction data as coupons to be provided to the user, and if there are coupons based on second transaction data from the transaction history data that have not been used to provide coupons to the user, extracting coupons based on second transaction data as coupons to be provided to the user.

4. The system further comprises a data processing unit that processes the updating of the user's attribute data based on the transaction history data. Extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data includes extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the user's updated attribute data. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the updated attribute data of the user includes first attribute data set by the setter, and second attribute data based on at least one of the transaction history data and the first attribute data.

6. Transaction processing equipment and A first acquisition unit that acquires first transaction data relating to a user's first transaction from the transaction processing device, A second acquisition unit that acquires transaction history data including second transaction data for each of the user's one or more second transactions prior to the first transaction, An extraction unit that extracts coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data, An output unit that outputs information regarding the coupon to be provided to the user, An information processing device equipped with, Equipped with, Extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data includes extracting a first coupon based on the first transaction data and extracting at least one of the first coupon and a second coupon different from the first coupon as coupons to be provided to the user based on the transaction history data. Information processing system.

7. On the computer, A function to retrieve the first transaction data related to the user's first transaction, A function to acquire transaction history data including second transaction data for each of the user's one or more second transactions prior to the first transaction, A function to extract coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data, A function to output information regarding coupons to be provided to the aforementioned user, A program capable of executing, Extracting coupons to be provided to the user based on the first transaction data and the transaction history data includes extracting a first coupon based on the first transaction data and extracting at least one of the first coupon and a second coupon different from the first coupon as coupons to be provided to the user based on the transaction history data. program.

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