Server device, system, server device control method and program

Abstract

Provided is a server device which enables ascertainment of an action of a user. The server device includes a storage means, a coupon use control means, and an information provision control means. The storage means comprises a database in which a coupon ID of a coupon issued to each of a plurality of users and attribute information relating to each of the plurality of users are stored in association with each other. The coupon use control means receives a coupon use notification including the coupon ID of the coupon used by the coupon user and settlement information generated by the use of the coupon. The coupon use control means uses the coupon ID included in the coupon use notification to identify the coupon user from among the plurality of users. The coupon use control means stores action information obtained from the settlement information in the database as an action history of the identified coupon user. The information provision control means uses the attribute information and the action history stored in the database to generate provision information and outputs the generated provision information.

Description

Server device, system, server device control method and storage medium

[0001] The present invention relates to a server device, a system, a method for controlling a server device, and a storage medium.

[0002] There are technologies related to mobile passports. For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses a mobile passport, a mobile passport generating system for generating the mobile passport, and a mobile passport authentication method.

[0003] There is also technology that supports the travel of foreigners coming to Japan from overseas (foreign visitors to Japan).

[0004] For example, Patent Document 2 describes promoting the use of IC cards by travelers from overseas. The traveler support device of Patent Document 2 is a device for use in a service that lends IC cards that can be used domestically to users who are interested in entering Japan from overseas or who are already in Japan. The traveler support device includes a communication processing unit, a user registration processing unit, a user request processing unit, and a user information storage unit. The user registration processing unit executes a predetermined user registration process. The user request processing unit executes appropriate processing in response to a predetermined processing request from the user. The user information storage unit stores information related to the user. When the communication processing unit receives a reservation request for the IC card lending service from a user terminal, the user request processing unit executes a predetermined request acceptance process.

[0005] JP 2021-520534 A JP 2019-121200 A

[0006] Information on the behavior of foreign visitors to Japan, especially inbound passengers, is important for airport operators and businesses operating in the airport vicinity. However, currently, airport operators and businesses operating in the vicinity have no way to accurately grasp the types of products that foreign visitors prefer to purchase. In other words, if these businesses could understand the consumption behavior of foreign visitors to Japan, they could use this information to tailor their business activities to the preferences of foreign visitors, but currently no such system has been established.

[0007] It should be noted that even if the technology disclosed in Patent Document 2 is applied, it is not possible to grasp the behavior of foreign visitors to Japan, because Patent Document 2 only discloses a technology to support the travel of foreign visitors to Japan.

[0008] A primary object of the present invention is to provide a server device, a system, a method for controlling a server device, and a storage medium that contribute to making it possible to grasp user behavior.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a server device comprising: a storage means having a database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users in correspondence with attribute information of each of the plurality of users; a coupon usage control means that receives a coupon usage notification including the coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by using the coupon, identifies the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification, and stores behavioral information obtained from the payment information in the database as the behavioral history of the identified coupon user; and an information provision control means that generates provision information using the attribute information and behavioral history stored in the database and outputs the generated provision information.

[0010] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system comprising: a terminal installed at a service provider; a server device, wherein the server device has a storage means having a database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users in correspondence with attribute information of each of the plurality of users; a coupon usage control means that receives from the terminal installed at the service provider a coupon usage notification including the coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by using the coupon, identifies the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification, and stores behavioral information obtained from the payment information as the behavioral history of the identified coupon user in the database; and an information provision control means that generates provision information using the attribute information and behavioral history stored in the database, and outputs the generated provision information.

[0011] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control method for a server device, which includes a database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users in association with attribute information of each of the plurality of users, and a storage means, and which receives a coupon usage notification including the coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by using the coupon, identifies the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification, stores behavioral information obtained from the payment information in the database as the behavioral history of the identified coupon user, generates provided information using the attribute information and behavioral history stored in the database, and outputs the generated provided information.

[0012] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-readable storage medium for storing a program for causing a computer mounted on a server device, which has a database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users in association with attribute information of each of the plurality of users, to execute the following processes: receiving a coupon usage notification including the coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by using the coupon, identifying the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification; storing behavioral information obtained from the payment information in the database as the behavioral history of the identified coupon user; and generating provision information using the attribute information and behavioral history stored in the database and outputting the generated provision information.

[0013] According to each aspect of the present invention, a server device, a system, a method for controlling a server device, and a storage medium are provided that contribute to making it possible to understand user behavior. Note that the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above. The present invention may achieve other effects instead of or in addition to the effects described above.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an overview of the operation of an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display on a terminal according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing configuration of a server device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a behavior history management database according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of a coupon use control unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation of an information provision control unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of an operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an operation of an information processing system according to a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an operation of an information processing system according to a modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a server device according to the present disclosure. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display on a terminal according to a modification of the present disclosure.

[0015] First, an overview of one embodiment will be described. Note that the reference numerals in the drawings are added to each element for convenience as an example to facilitate understanding, and the description of this overview is not intended to be limiting in any way. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the blocks shown in each drawing represent functional units, not hardware units. Connection lines between blocks in each drawing include both bidirectional and unidirectional lines. Unidirectional arrows are used to schematically indicate the flow of the main signal (data) and do not exclude bidirectionality. Note that in this specification and drawings, elements that can be similarly described may be assigned the same reference numerals to avoid redundant explanation.

[0016] The server device 100 according to one embodiment includes a storage unit 101, a coupon usage control unit 102, and an information provision control unit 103 (see FIG. 1). The storage unit 101 includes a database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users in association with attribute information for each of the plurality of users. The coupon usage control unit 102 receives a coupon usage notification that includes the coupon ID of a coupon used by the coupon user and payment information generated by the coupon usage. The coupon usage control unit 102 identifies a coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification (step S1 in FIG. 2). The coupon usage control unit 102 stores behavioral information obtained from the payment information in the database as the behavioral history of the identified coupon user (step S2). The information provision control unit 103 generates information to be provided using the attribute information and behavioral history stored in the database and outputs the generated information to be provided (step S3).

[0017] The server device 100 manages, for example, attribute information obtained from a two-dimensional barcode for a tax-free certificate issued to a foreign visitor to Japan after completing immigration procedures, in association with the coupon ID of the coupon issued to the foreign visitor. When a foreign visitor uses a coupon, the server device 100 stores the behavioral history obtained from the coupon's use in a database in association with the attribute information. In response to requests from companies and the like, the server device 100 provides information on the behavior of users (foreign visitors to Japan; inbound passengers) using the attribute information and behavioral history stored in the database. As a result, companies and the like can more accurately understand users' consumption behavior.

[0018] Specific embodiments will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0019] First Embodiment The first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0020] [System Configuration] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to embodiment 1. As shown in Fig. 3, the information processing system includes various facilities such as a management center, an airport, and a store of a service provider (e.g., a retailer).

[0021] The management center will provide management and information services to foreigners, especially foreign visitors to Japan. The management center will be managed and operated by a voluntary organization. For example, the management center may be managed and operated by a private business operator, the government, or an organization or institution commissioned by the government.

[0022] The management center includes a server device 10. The server device 10 is a server that realizes the main functions of the management center. The server device 10 may be installed in the building of the management center, or may be installed on a network (on the cloud).

[0023] Staff terminals 20 are installed in the airport. For example, staff at the management center operate the staff terminals 20. Details of the functions of the staff terminals 20 will be described later.

[0024] A service provider is a business that provides a service to a user. Examples of the service provider include a retail store, a restaurant, a movie theater, an amusement park, etc. In the first embodiment, a retail store will be used as an example of the service provider.

[0025] 3, payment terminal 30-1 is installed in retail store A1, and payment terminal 30-2 is installed in retail store A2. In the following explanation, unless there is a particular reason to distinguish between payment terminals 30-1 and 30-2, they will simply be referred to as "payment terminal 30." The payment terminal 30 installed in the retail store is a so-called POS (Point of Sale) terminal, and is used to pay for products purchased by users.

[0026] Foreign visitors to Japan carry a terminal 40 such as a smartphone.

[0027] The devices (server device 10, staff terminal 20, etc.) shown in FIG. 3 are connected by wired or wireless communication means and are configured to be able to communicate with each other.

[0028] The configuration of the information processing system shown in Fig. 3 is an example and is not intended to limit the configuration. For example, the system may include multiple server devices 10. Also, although Fig. 3 illustrates two retail stores, it goes without saying that this is not intended to limit the number of retail stores (service providers) included in the information processing system.

[0029] [Overall Operation] Next, an overall operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0030] <Immigration procedures for foreign visitors to Japan> Foreign visitors to Japan (inbound passengers) must go through immigration procedures at the airport of arrival. Immigration procedures include inspections at customs, immigration, and quarantine.

[0031] An online service is available to reduce the burden of immigration procedures for foreign visitors to Japan. Specifically, a service called "Visit Japan Web" is available at designated arrival airports. By using the Visit Japan Web service, foreign visitors to Japan can submit information regarding quarantine, immigration inspection, and customs procedures online upon entry.

[0032] Furthermore, as described in Reference 1 below, foreign visitors to Japan who use the Visit Japan Web service are provided with a two-dimensional barcode for providing the information necessary for tax exemption applications (customs declarations). In the following explanation, the two-dimensional barcode for providing the information necessary for tax exemption applications will be referred to as the "two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate."

[0033] [Reference 1] <URL: https: / / www.digital.go.jp / policies / visit_japan_web / >

[0034] The two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate contains information such as the foreign visitor's ID, first name, last name, date of birth, gender, nationality, passport number, residence status, date of landing, etc. In the following explanation, the information obtained from the two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate will be referred to as "foreign visitor attribute information" or simply "attribute information."

[0035] As described above, foreign visitors to Japan (inbound passengers) who are eligible for duty-free purchases and have successfully completed customs, immigration, and quarantine are granted tax-free privileges (rights). Specifically, by completing the required procedures, foreign visitors to Japan are issued a two-dimensional barcode for tax-free certification that certifies their tax-free eligibility. More specifically, foreign visitors to Japan operate a terminal 40 they possess to read the two-dimensional barcode on the authentication seal affixed to their passport as a landing permission stamp. The read two-dimensional barcode is sent to a specified server, and the server issues a new two-dimensional barcode for tax-free certification to the foreign visitors to Japan.

[0036] The two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate issued to foreign visitors to Japan is not limited to tax exemption purposes, and can be used for various purposes.

[0037] When the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate is issued, the terminal 40 carried by the foreign visitor to Japan displays a facial photo (a facial image registered in advance or obtained from a passport) and the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate in response to an operation by the foreign visitor to Japan (see Figure 4). Foreign visitors to Japan (inbound passengers) can receive tax exemption benefits by presenting their facial photo and the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate shown in Figure 4 to a store clerk at a retail store or the like.

[0038] <Issuance of coupons> As part of its efforts to increase the number of inbound tourists, the Management Center will grant special benefits to foreign visitors who enter Japan using the Visit Japan Web service. Specifically, the Management Center will issue coupons (coupons that offer a specified discount) that can be used at retail stores and other locations in the city to foreign visitors.

[0039] In order to receive this benefit (a coupon that allows a specified amount of discount), foreign visitors to Japan must complete immigration procedures and show the control center that they are eligible for tax exemption.

[0040] Specifically, the foreign visitor to Japan presents the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate, which can be obtained through the above-mentioned predetermined procedure, to a staff member at the management center, etc. For example, the foreign visitor to Japan operates the terminal 40 he or she possesses to display the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate, etc. on the terminal 40, and presents it to a staff member at the management center, etc.

[0041] The staff member at the management center uses a barcode reader (not shown) connected to the staff terminal 20 to input the presented two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate into the staff terminal 20 .

[0042] Staff terminal 20 acquires foreign visitor attribute information from the two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate displayed on terminal 40. Staff terminal 20 presents the acquired foreign visitor attribute information to staff at the management center, etc. Staff at the management center, etc., use the presented attribute information to verify whether the foreign visitor who wishes to receive a coupon (coupon applicant) is eligible to receive the coupon.

[0043] If the coupon applicant is eligible to receive the coupon, the staff terminal 20 acquires contact information from the coupon applicant (foreign visitor to Japan). For example, the staff terminal 20 acquires a telephone number, an email address, etc. at which messages can be received on the terminal 40 in response to an operation by a staff member at the management center.

[0044] When the staff terminal 20 acquires the foreign visitor attribute information and contact information, it transmits a "coupon issuance request" including this information to the server device 10 (see FIG. 5).

[0045] When the server device 10 receives the coupon issuance request, the server device 10 issues a coupon to the foreign visitor to Japan (inbound passenger). The server device 10 generates a coupon ID that identifies the coupon issued to the foreign visitor to Japan.

[0046] The server device 10 stores the generated coupon ID, the coupon content (e.g., discount amount), and all or part of the foreign visitor attribute information (e.g., date of birth, gender, nationality, passport number, status of residence, date of landing) in association with each other. Specifically, the server device 10 adds a new entry to the behavior history management database and writes the coupon ID, coupon content, and foreign visitor attribute information into the added entry. The behavior history management database will be described in detail later.

[0047] The server device 10 transmits the coupon ID of the coupon issued to the foreign visitor who wishes to receive the coupon to the terminal 40 of the foreign visitor. The terminal 40 stores the acquired coupon ID.

[0048] <Understanding the behavior of foreign visitors to Japan> Foreign visitors to Japan use coupons that have been issued to them. When using a coupon, a foreign visitor to Japan who wishes to use the coupon presents the information on the issued coupon to the service provider (retailer). Specifically, in response to the operation of the person wishing to use the coupon, the terminal 40 converts the coupon ID received from the server device 10 into a two-dimensional barcode or the like and displays it. The terminal 40 displays the two-dimensional barcode for presenting the coupon that has been generated based on the coupon ID.

[0049] A retail store clerk or the like operates payment terminal 30 to read the two-dimensional coupon presentation barcode displayed on terminal 40. Payment terminal 30 extracts a coupon ID from the two-dimensional barcode. Payment terminal 30 then transmits the extracted coupon ID to server device 10. More specifically, payment terminal 30 transmits a "coupon availability determination request" including the extracted coupon ID to server device 10 (see step S01 in FIG. 6).

[0050] The server device 10 identifies coupons issued to foreign visitors to Japan based on the acquired coupon ID. The server device 10 determines whether the identified coupons can be used and notifies the payment terminal 30 of the determination result. The server device 10 transmits a response to the coupon use determination request to the payment terminal 30 (step S02).

[0051] Specifically, if the coupon issued to the foreign visitor to Japan is available for use (if there is a remaining discount amount), the server device 10 sends a positive response including the content of the identified coupon (discount amount) to the payment terminal 30. If the coupon issued to the foreign visitor to Japan is not available for use (if there is no remaining discount amount), the server device 10 sends a negative response to the payment terminal 30 indicating that there is no available coupon.

[0052] If a negative response (coupon cannot be used) is received, the payment terminal 30 notifies the foreign visitor to Japan who wishes to use the coupon of this fact.

[0053] If a positive response (coupon use is permitted) is received, the payment terminal 30 notifies the retail store clerk or foreign visitor that the coupon can be used and the details of the coupon (discount amount) included in the positive response.

[0054] The retail store clerk or the like acquires from the customer (foreign visitor to Japan) the desire (intention) to use a coupon and the coupon amount if the coupon is used. The retail store clerk or the like inputs the acquired coupon amount into the payment terminal 30.

[0055] When the payment terminal 30 acquires the coupon usage amount, it makes a payment for the product etc. purchased by the coupon user. The payment terminal 30 acquires detailed payment information (payment information; for example, the name of the retailer, the name of the purchased product, the product price before the coupon is applied, etc.).

[0056] The payment terminal 30 sends a "coupon usage notification" to the server device 10, which includes the acquired payment information (payment information generated in connection with the use of the coupon), the coupon ID of the used coupon, the coupon usage amount, etc. (step S03).

[0057] Upon receiving the coupon usage notification, the server device 10 stores the behavioral history (consumption behavior) of the foreign visitor to Japan at the service provider (retailer) in a behavioral history management database. The server device 10 identifies the foreign visitor to Japan who used the coupon using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification. The server device 10 writes the behavioral information obtained from the payment information as behavioral history in the entry of the identified foreign visitor to Japan.

[0058] For example, if a foreign visitor to Japan purchases product B at retail store A1 for 3,000 yen, behavioral information (behavior history) such as "retail store A1, product B, 3,000 yen" is stored in the behavior history management database as the behavioral history of the foreign visitor to Japan. In this way, if the foreign visitor to Japan uses a coupon when purchasing product B, the purchase price of the product (3,000 yen) is stored in the behavior history management database.

[0059] By the operation of the server device 10 as described above, the behavior history management database stores attribute information (e.g., gender, age, nationality) and behavior history for each foreign visitor to Japan who has received a coupon.

[0060] Furthermore, upon receiving the coupon usage notification, the server device 10 reflects the coupon usage by the coupon user (foreign visitor to Japan) in the behavior history management database. The server device 10 subtracts the coupon usage amount from the coupon balance stored in the behavior history management database.

[0061] <Information Provision> The server device 10 provides information on the behavior of foreign visitors to Japan in response to requests from external companies such as a management center or an airport company. The server device 10 generates information to be provided using attribute information and behavior history stored in the behavior history management database, and outputs the generated information to be provided.

[0062] For example, the server device 10 generates behavioral histories for each attribute of foreign visitors to Japan and provides them to the external companies, etc. For example, the server device 10 generates behavioral histories for each gender, age (generation), and nationality of foreign visitors to Japan stored in the behavioral history management database and provides them to the external companies, etc. The external companies, etc. use the acquired behavioral histories to study the preferences, etc. of foreign visitors to Japan and use them in their own business.

[0063] Next, details of each device included in the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0064] [Server Device] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration (processing modules) of the server device 10 according to the first embodiment. Referring to Fig. 7, the server device 10 includes a communication control unit 201, a coupon issuance control unit 202, a coupon usage control unit 203, an information provision control unit 204, and a storage unit 205.

[0065] The communication control unit 201 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 201 receives data (packets) from the staff terminal 20. The communication control unit 201 also transmits data to the staff terminal 20. The communication control unit 201 passes data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 201 transmits data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules transmit and receive data to and from other devices via the communication control unit 201. The communication control unit 201 has a function as a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and a function as a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0066] The coupon issuance control unit 202 is a means for controlling the issuance of coupons.

[0067] The coupon issuance control unit 202 receives a coupon issuance request from a predetermined terminal (for example, the staff terminal 20) that includes attribute information obtained from the two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate and the contact information of the foreign visitor to Japan.

[0068] Upon receiving a coupon issuance request, the coupon issuance control unit 202 issues a coupon to the foreign visitor who presents the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate. The coupon issuance control unit 202 generates a coupon ID that identifies the coupon issued to the foreign visitor. For example, the coupon issuance control unit 202 may assign a unique value each time it processes a coupon issuance request and use the number as the coupon ID.

[0069] The coupon issuance control unit 202 associates and stores the generated coupon ID, the coupon content (discount amount, coupon balance), and all or part of the foreign visitor attribute information. Specifically, the coupon issuance control unit 202 adds a new entry to the behavior history management database and writes the coupon ID, coupon balance, and foreign visitor attribute information into the added entry (see FIG. 8).

[0070] 8 is an example and is not intended to limit the items to be stored, etc. For example, the issue date and time of a coupon may be registered in the behavior history management database.

[0071] The coupon issuance control unit 202 transmits the coupon ID of the coupon issued to the foreign visitor to the terminal 40 of the foreign visitor. The coupon issuance control unit 202 transmits the coupon ID to a contact address (such as an email address that can be received by the terminal 40) included in the coupon issuance request. At that time, the coupon issuance control unit 202 may transmit details of the coupon issued to the foreign visitor to the terminal 40 (for example, the discount amount) together with the coupon ID.

[0072] In this way, the coupon issuance control unit 202 receives a coupon issuance request including attribute information obtained from the two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate presented by the coupon applicant from a predetermined terminal (staff terminal 20). When the coupon issuance control unit 202 issues a coupon to the coupon applicant, it transmits the coupon ID of the issued coupon to the terminal 40 held by the coupon applicant.

[0073] The coupon usage control unit 203 is a means for controlling the usage of coupons issued to foreign visitors to Japan.

[0074] The coupon usage control unit 203 receives a coupon usage determination request, including a coupon ID presented by a person wishing to use a coupon, from a terminal (payment terminal 30) installed at the service provider. The coupon usage control unit 203 determines the validity of the coupon corresponding to the coupon ID and notifies the payment terminal 30 installed at the service provider of the determination result.

[0075] 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the coupon use control unit 203 according to the first embodiment. First, with reference to FIG. 9, the operation of the coupon use control unit 203 when a coupon use availability determination request is received will be described.

[0076] The coupon use control unit 203 receives a "coupon use eligibility determination request" from the payment terminal 30. The coupon use control unit 203 searches the behavior history management database using the coupon ID included in the coupon use eligibility determination request as a key. The coupon use control unit 203 identifies coupons issued to foreign visitors to Japan through the search (identifying issued coupons; step S101).

[0077] The coupon use control unit 203 determines whether the specified coupon can be used (step S102). Specifically, if the specified coupon (entry) has a remaining coupon balance, the coupon use control unit 203 determines that the coupon can be used. If the specified coupon (entry) has no remaining coupon balance (if the balance is zero), the coupon use control unit 203 determines that the coupon cannot be used.

[0078] The coupon usage control unit 203 notifies the payment terminal 30 of the determination result regarding whether or not the coupon can be used.

[0079] Specifically, if the determination result is "coupon use is permitted" (step S103, Yes branch), the coupon use control unit 203 sends an affirmative response including the coupon balance of the identified coupon to the payment terminal 30 (step S104).

[0080] If the judgment result is "coupon cannot be used" (step S103, No branch), the coupon usage control unit 203 sends a negative response to the payment terminal 30 indicating that there are no coupons that can be used by foreign visitors to Japan who present the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate (step S105).

[0081] The coupon usage control unit 203 receives a “coupon usage notification” from the payment terminal 30 .

[0082] When a coupon usage notification is received, the coupon usage control unit 203 searches the behavior history management database using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification as a key. The coupon usage control unit 203 generates behavior information using the reception date and time of the coupon usage notification and payment information. The coupon usage control unit 203 writes the generated behavior information (reception date and time, payment information) into the behavior history field of the entry identified by the search.

[0083] Furthermore, upon receiving a coupon usage notification, the coupon usage control unit 203 reflects the coupon usage by the foreign visitor to Japan in the behavior history management database. The coupon usage control unit 203 subtracts the coupon usage amount from the coupon balance field of the entry identified by the search using the coupon ID.

[0084] In this way, the coupon use control unit 203 receives a coupon use notification that includes the coupon ID of the coupon used by the coupon user and payment information generated by using the coupon. The coupon use control unit 203 identifies the coupon user from among multiple users (foreign visitors to Japan who have been issued coupons) using the coupon ID included in the coupon use notification. The coupon use control unit 203 stores the behavioral information obtained from the payment information in the behavioral history management database as the behavioral history of the identified coupon user.

[0085] The information provision control unit 204 is a means for providing information on the behavior of foreign visitors to Japan based on a request from the management center or an external company, etc. The information provision control unit 204 generates information to be provided using the foreign visitor attribute information and behavior history stored in the behavior history management database, and outputs the generated information to be provided.

[0086] Specifically, the information provision control unit 204 accepts operations from staff members of the management center using a GUI (Graphical User Interface) or the like. The information provision control unit 204 acquires specifications, etc., regarding the information to be provided from the staff members, etc., and generates information to be provided that conforms to the acquired specifications, etc. For example, the information provision control unit 204 generates behavioral histories for each attribute of a user as information to be provided. The information provision control unit 204 provides the generated information to external companies, etc.

[0087] For example, the information provision control unit 204 transmits the generated information to be provided to a terminal (not shown) of an external company. Alternatively, the information provision control unit 204 stores the generated information to be provided in an external storage device such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) memory. The USB memory is sent to the external company or the like. Alternatively, the information provision control unit 204 may output the generated information to a display, a printer, or the like so that it can be viewed by staff or the like at the management center.

[0088] For example, when the information provision control unit 204 receives a specification of "behavioral history of Americans in their 30s," it extracts entries that match the specified attributes from among the entries stored in the behavior history management database and generates information to be provided. In this way, the information provision control unit 204 may extract behavioral history related to attributes specified by an external company or the like from the behavior history management database and provide the extracted behavioral history to the external company or the like.

[0089] Alternatively, the information provision control unit 204 may accept a more detailed specification that includes, in addition to the attribute, the time period (period) of the entries to be extracted. For example, the information provision control unit 204 may accept a specification such as "the number of American users of retail store A1 by age group on each day in March 2023," and extract and provide entries that match the specification. In this case, the information provision control unit 204 generates information to be provided, for example, as shown in FIG. 10.

[0090] The storage unit 205 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the server device 10. The storage unit 205 includes a behavior history management database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users and attribute information of each of the plurality of users in association with each other.

[0091] [Staff Terminal] A detailed description of the processing configuration (processing module) of the staff terminal 20 will be omitted. The staff terminal 20 acquires foreign visitor attribute information from the two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate presented by the user. The staff terminal 20 also acquires contact information for the foreign visitor through operation by a staff member at the management center. The staff terminal 20 transmits a coupon issuance request to the server device 10, including the acquired foreign visitor attribute information and contact information.

[0092] [Payment Terminal] A detailed description of the processing configuration (processing module) of the payment terminal 30 will be omitted. The payment terminal 30 acquires information (coupon ID) of coupons issued to foreign visitors to Japan. The payment terminal 30 sends a coupon usage determination request, including the acquired coupon ID, to the server device 10. The payment terminal 30 presents the availability of the coupon and details of the coupon (such as the remaining coupon balance) to the retail store clerk or person requesting to use the coupon. The payment terminal 30 applies the coupon (applies a discount) in response to the operation of the clerk or other person, and completes the payment for the product price. Once the payment is completed, the payment terminal 30 sends a coupon usage notification to the server device 10, including payment information generated by the coupon usage, the coupon ID of the used coupon, the coupon usage amount, etc.

[0093] [Terminal] Detailed description of the processing configuration (processing module) of the terminal 40 will be omitted. Examples of the terminal 40 include mobile terminal devices such as smartphones, mobile phones, game consoles, and tablets, as well as computers (personal computers, laptop computers). The terminal 40 can be any equipment or device that can accept user operations and communicate with the server device 10, etc.

[0094] [System Operation] Next, a description will be given of the operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. Fig. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment.

[0095] The staff terminal 20 acquires foreign visitor attribute information from the two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate presented by the foreign visitor. The staff terminal 20 also acquires the contact information (telephone number, email address) of the foreign visitor. The staff terminal 20 transmits a coupon issuance request including the foreign visitor attribute information and contact information to the server device 10 (step S11).

[0096] Upon receiving the coupon issuance request, the server device 10 issues a coupon to the foreign visitor (step S12). The server device 10 adds a new entry to the behavior history management database and stores the coupon ID, foreign visitor attribute information, etc. in the added entry.

[0097] The server device 10 transmits the coupon ID of the issued coupon to the terminal 40 (step S13).

[0098] The payment terminal 30 extracts the coupon ID from the two-dimensional coupon barcode presented by the foreign visitor wishing to use the coupon, and then transmits a coupon usage determination request including the coupon ID to the server device 10 (step S14).

[0099] The server device 10, which has received the coupon availability determination request, determines whether the coupon can be used based on the coupon balance of the coupon corresponding to the coupon ID. The server device 10 notifies the payment terminal 30 of the availability determination result (step S15).

[0100] If the coupon is available, the payment terminal 30 acquires the coupon usage amount, etc., desired by the coupon user, and makes payment for the product, etc. The payment terminal 30 transmits a coupon usage notification, including the coupon ID, the coupon usage amount, payment information, etc., to the server device 10 (step S16).

[0101] Upon receiving the coupon usage notification, the server device 10 identifies an entry in the behavior history management database using the coupon ID, and updates the behavior history field of the identified entry (creates a behavior history; step S17).

[0102] Next, a modification of the first embodiment will be described.

[0103] <Modification 1> In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which a coupon is issued to a foreign visitor to Japan via a staff member of the management center (staff terminal 20). The foreign visitor to Japan may receive the coupon by operating his / her own terminal 40.

[0104] In this case, the terminal 40 directly accesses the server device 10 in response to an operation by the foreign visitor to Japan. The terminal 40 transmits the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate stored therein to the server device 10. The terminal 40 transmits a coupon issuance request including the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate to the server device 10 (see FIG. 12 ). Alternatively, instead of transmitting the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate, the terminal 40 may transmit to the server device 10 information (e.g., the ID of the foreign visitor to Japan) that can identify the content of the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate of the foreign visitor to Japan who wishes to issue a coupon.

[0105] The coupon issuance control unit 202 of the server device 10 verifies the received two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate. The coupon issuance control unit 202 determines whether the foreign visitor to Japan is an eligible recipient of the coupon using foreign visitor attribute information obtained by decoding the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate. More specifically, the coupon issuance control unit 202 determines whether the foreign visitor to Japan requesting the issuance of the coupon is a short-term visitor and has the right to purchase tax-free.

[0106] If the person requesting the coupon is a target recipient, the coupon issuance control unit 202 issues a coupon to the person requesting the coupon (foreign visitor to Japan). The coupon issuance control unit 202 transmits the coupon ID to the terminal 40. In this way, foreign visitors to Japan can also obtain coupons online.

[0107] <Modification 2> In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which a foreign visitor to Japan uses a coupon via the payment terminal 30. However, a foreign visitor to Japan can also use a coupon without using the payment terminal 30.

[0108] In this case, a two-dimensional barcode (two-dimensional barcode for retail stores; sticker or paper) prepared for foreign visitors who wish to use a coupon is affixed to the front of a retail store or the like (see FIG. 13). Terminal 40 reads the two-dimensional barcode for retail stores in response to an operation by the foreign visitors. The two-dimensional barcode for retail stores includes the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of server device 10, the name of the retail store where the two-dimensional barcode is affixed, and the like.

[0109] The terminal 40 reads the two-dimensional barcode for the retail store and accesses the server device 10 .

[0110] When the server device 10 receives access from the terminal 40, the coupon usage control unit 203 of the server device 10 requests the terminal 40 to provide a coupon ID.

[0111] In response to a request from the server device 10, the terminal 40 transmits the coupon ID of the coupon stored therein to the server device 10.

[0112] The coupon usage control unit 203 of the server device 10 uses the coupon ID to determine whether the coupon can be used. The coupon usage control unit 203 notifies the terminal 40 of the determination result of whether the coupon can be used. If the coupon can be used, the coupon usage control unit 203 transmits the coupon balance to the terminal 40.

[0113] The foreign visitor operates terminal 40 to present the coupon balance obtained from server device 10 to a retail store clerk or the like, and informs the clerk of the coupon amount. The clerk then applies a discount to the coupon amount and completes the payment for the product.

[0114] When a coupon is used, the terminal 40 sends a coupon usage notification to the server device 10, which includes the coupon ID used, the coupon usage amount, and payment information (retailer name, purchased product, product price, etc.). The terminal 40 may obtain the retailer name from the retailer's two-dimensional barcode. The terminal 40 may also obtain information such as the purchased product name and product price in response to an operation by the user (foreign visitor to Japan). Alternatively, the terminal 40 may obtain the purchased product name and product price (sales price) from a barcode attached to the product.

[0115] In this way, foreign visitors to Japan can use coupons by operating their own terminals 40. That is, the behavioral history of foreign visitors to Japan can be collected without providing payment terminals 30 in retail stores or the like.

[0116] <Variation 3> When a foreign visitor to Japan uses a coupon, it may be verified that the person who received the coupon and the coupon user are the same person. If the identity of the coupon user is successfully verified, the coupon may be approved for use.

[0117] For example, when displaying the two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate, the terminal 40 performs identity verification using facial authentication. Specifically, the terminal 40 performs matching (one-to-one matching) using a facial image (a facial image registered in advance or a facial image obtained from a passport) and a facial image obtained by photographing the user. If the one-to-one matching is successful (if the two facial images are facial images of the same person), the terminal 40 may display the two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate.

[0118] Alternatively, terminal 40 may display a facial image of the foreign visitor to Japan who has been issued the coupon when the coupon ID is presented to a retail store or the like (when the coupon is used). In this case, a store clerk or the like at the retail store compares the facial image (a photograph of the foreign visitor to Japan who has been issued the coupon) displayed on terminal 40 with the face of the foreign visitor to Japan who wishes to use the coupon (the foreign visitor in front of the person) to verify the identity of the person.

[0119] Alternatively, the payment terminal 30 may perform identity verification of the coupon user. In this case, the terminal 40 transmits a facial image stored internally to the payment terminal 30 using a short-range wireless communication method such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or NFC (Near Field Communication). The payment terminal 30 photographs the user (a foreign visitor to Japan using the coupon) in front of the terminal 40 and acquires the facial image. If one-to-one matching (one-to-one authentication) using the two facial images is successful, the payment terminal 30 determines that identity verification of the coupon user has been successful.

[0120] As described above, in the information processing system according to the first embodiment, a coupon is issued to a foreign visitor to Japan who obtains a two-dimensional tax-exemption barcode by completing immigration procedures, such as through a predetermined online procedure. The server device 10 stores the coupon ID of the issued coupon in association with attribute information obtained from the two-dimensional tax-exemption barcode. Furthermore, when the issued coupon is used, the server device 10 identifies the coupon user using the coupon ID of the used coupon. The server device 10 generates behavioral information of the coupon user based on payment information notified from the payment terminal 30 and stores the information in a behavior history management database. Because the behavior history management database stores the coupon ID, attribute information, and behavior history in association with each other, the server device 10 can provide external companies with detailed information regarding the attributes (combinations of attributes) of foreign visitors to Japan. By referencing the provided information, external companies can easily understand the types of products that users (foreign visitors to Japan) prefer to purchase. Furthermore, external companies can specify the attributes of the information provided in detail, allowing them to easily obtain information useful for their own business.

[0121] In this way, the information processing system disclosed herein realizes multipurpose use of two-dimensional barcodes issued to foreign visitors to Japan for tax-free travel. Specifically, a system is built in cooperation with airport operators to increase inbound tourists. That is, by setting up a place within the airport where coupons can be issued to foreign visitors to Japan after they have completed immigration procedures before they move to their destination (installing staff terminals 20 within the airport), coupons can be issued to many foreign visitors without exception. Issuing coupons provides an incentive for spending at retail stores around the airport. As a result, the behavioral history of many foreign visitors to Japan can be collected.

[0122] Furthermore, information about foreign visitors to Japan (inbound passengers) (such as arrival and departure airports) is held by airlines, and airports cannot obtain this information. However, airports have a need to expand into tourism, retail, and other businesses in addition to their primary operations. To meet this need, the information processing system disclosed in this application combines two-dimensional barcodes for tax-free certificates with the issuance of coupons, making it possible to obtain detailed behavioral histories for each attribute. For example, it becomes possible to understand consumption behavior by nationality.

[0123] The information processing system disclosed herein provides the government agencies that operate the Visit Japan Web service with the benefit of promoting system usage, and also provides external companies, including airport operators, with the benefit of providing opportunities to consider measures by understanding the behavior of foreign visitors to Japan (inbound passengers).

[0124] Next, the hardware of each device constituting the information processing system will be described. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server device 10.

[0125] The server device 10 can be configured by an information processing device (so-called computer), and has the configuration exemplified in Fig. 14. For example, the server device 10 includes a processor 311, a memory 312, an input / output interface 313, and a communication interface 314. The components such as the processor 311 are connected by an internal bus or the like, and are configured to be able to communicate with each other.

[0126] However, the configuration shown in Fig. 14 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the server device 10. The server device 10 may include hardware not shown, and may not include the input / output interface 313 as necessary. Furthermore, the number of processors 311 and the like included in the server device 10 is not intended to be limited to the example shown in Fig. 14, and for example, the server device 10 may include multiple processors 311.

[0127] The processor 311 is a programmable device such as a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), or a digital signal processor (DSP). Alternatively, the processor 311 may be a device such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The processor 311 executes various programs including an operating system (OS).

[0128] The memory 312 is a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), etc. The memory 312 stores an OS program, application programs, and various data.

[0129] The input / output interface 313 is an interface for a display device and an input device (not shown). The display device is, for example, a liquid crystal display, etc. The input device is, for example, a device that accepts user operations, such as a keyboard or a mouse.

[0130] The communication interface 314 is a circuit, module, etc. that communicates with other devices. For example, the communication interface 314 includes a network interface card (NIC).

[0131] The functions of the server device 10 are realized by various processing modules. The processing modules are realized, for example, by the processor 311 executing a program stored in the memory 312. The program can be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be a non-transitory medium such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium, or an optical recording medium. That is, the present invention can also be embodied as a computer program product. The program can be downloaded via a network or updated using a storage medium storing the program. Furthermore, the processing modules can be realized by semiconductor chips.

[0132] The staff terminal 20, the payment terminal 30, etc. can also be configured using information processing devices similar to the server device 10, and their basic hardware configurations are no different from those of the server device 10, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0133] The server device 10, which is an information processing device, is equipped with a computer, and functions of the server device 10 can be realized by causing the computer to execute a program. The server device 10 also executes a control method for the server device 10 by the program.

[0134] [Modifications] The configuration, operation, etc. of the information processing system described in the above embodiment are merely examples, and are not intended to limit the configuration, etc. of the system.

[0135] A coupon issued to a foreign visitor to Japan may have a usage period set. For example, the coupon issuance control unit 202 may set a validity period for the coupon calculated from the date of arrival of the foreign visitor to Japan to whom the coupon is issued. When a validity period is set for the coupon, the server device 10 (coupon usage control unit 203) determines that the coupon cannot be used if the coupon usage period has passed, even if there is a remaining coupon balance.

[0136] The coupon (coupon ID) issued to the foreign visitor to Japan may be stored in a digital wallet created on the terminal 40. The foreign visitor to Japan may use a digital wallet application to treat the acquired coupon in the same way as a credit card or the like.

[0137] The coupon issuance control unit 202 of the server device 10 may determine the discount amount of the issued coupon, etc., based on information obtained from the two-dimensional barcode for the tax exemption certificate acquired from the foreign visitor to Japan. For example, the coupon issuance control unit 202 may issue a coupon with a large discount amount set to a foreign visitor to Japan with attributes for which more information is desired to be obtained.

[0138] Alternatively, the server device 10 (coupon issuance control unit 202) may determine whether to issue a coupon and the discount amount, etc., based on information obtained from the airline used by the foreign visitor to Japan (for example, whether the foreign visitor entered Japan in first class).

[0139] In this way, the server device 10 may issue coupons to individuals whose behavior is to be monitored in detail, or may change the content of the coupons to be issued (such as the discount amount). For example, the server device 10 may determine whether to issue a coupon or determine the content of the coupon (such as the discount amount) depending on the age, nationality, etc. of the foreign visitor to Japan.

[0140] If the coupon issuance control unit 202 of the server device 10 can acquire information such as the arrival airport, date and time of stay, and length of stay of the foreign visitor, the coupon issuance control unit 202 may issue a coupon with a limited area and period of use based on the acquired information. For example, the coupon issuance control unit 202 may issue a region-limited coupon that can only be used at retail stores operating in the vicinity of the airport where the foreign visitor arrived. In this case, the payment terminal 30 sends a coupon usage determination request, including the store's location information, to the server device 10. The server device 10 (coupon usage control unit 203) determines whether the coupon can be used based on the acquired location information. Alternatively, the server device 10 may change the content of the coupon to be issued depending on the foreign visitor's length of stay or location. For example, the server device 10 may increase the discount amount or discount rate of the coupon issued the longer the length of stay. Alternatively, the server device 10 may set a larger discount amount or discount value for coupons issued to foreign visitors staying in a specific location.

[0141] The server device 10 may verify (confirm) that a foreign visitor to Japan who wishes to use a coupon is actually staying in Japan. Specifically, the server device 10 (coupon use control unit 203) transmits the passport number of the coupon user to a predetermined organization that manages people entering Japan. The predetermined organization notifies the server device 10 whether or not a person corresponding to the received passport number is staying in Japan. If the foreign visitor to Japan who wishes to use the coupon is not staying in Japan, the server device 10 determines that the coupon cannot be used.

[0142] The two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate may change each time it is used. For example, a two-dimensional barcode with a different pattern may be displayed on terminal 40 when the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate is presented to receive tax exemption or when it is presented to issue a coupon. In this case, each time terminal 40 displays the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate, it accesses a server that issues two-dimensional barcodes for tax exemption certificate and obtains the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate from the server. This configuration improves the security of the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate.

[0143] In the above embodiment, a case where a "discount amount" is set as the content of the issued coupon has been described. However, the content of the issued coupon may be a "discount rate." In this case, a limit may be set on the number of times the coupon can be used.

[0144] In the above embodiment, a case where a coupon is issued to a foreign visitor to Japan has been described, but the coupon may also be issued to a foreigner residing in Japan or a Japanese person. In this case, the management center may issue the coupon to an individual who provides information equivalent to the information contained in the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate (date of birth, nationality, etc.). In other words, the recipients of the coupon are not limited to foreign visitors to Japan (foreign visitors to Japan who present the two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate).

[0145] The terminal 40 of the foreign visitor to Japan may notify the foreign visitor of the current status of coupons issued to the foreign visitor. For example, in response to the foreign visitor's operation, the terminal 40 sends a "coupon status notification request" including a coupon ID to the server device 10. The server device 10 then sends to the terminal 40 information about the coupon listed in the entry (entry in the behavior history management database) corresponding to the coupon ID included in the coupon status notification request. The server device 10 then sends to the terminal 40 information such as the coupon balance, coupon discount rate, and number of times the coupon can be used. The terminal 40 then displays the received information. In this case, the terminal 40 may display information such as the coupon balance, coupon discount rate, and number of times the coupon can be used, along with the foreign visitor's facial image and a two-dimensional barcode for tax exemption certificate (see FIG. 15 ). Note that while FIG. 15 displays the coupon balance, the coupon discount rate, number of times the coupon can be used, etc. may also be displayed.

[0146] In the above embodiment, the behavior history management database is configured inside the server device 10, but the database may be configured on an external database server or the like. That is, some of the functions of the server device 10 may be implemented on another server. More specifically, the above-described "coupon issuance control unit (coupon issuance control means)," "coupon use control unit (coupon use control means)," etc. may be implemented on any of the devices included in the system.

[0147] The form of data transmission between the devices (server device 10, staff terminal 20) is not particularly limited, but the data transmitted between these devices may be encrypted. Personal information and the like is transmitted between these devices, and in order to properly protect this information, it is desirable to transmit and receive encrypted data.

[0148] In the flow charts (flowcharts, sequence diagrams) used in the above explanation, multiple steps (processes) are described in order, but the order of execution of the steps executed in the embodiments is not limited to the order described. In the embodiments, the order of the steps shown in the drawings can be changed to the extent that the content is not affected, such as by executing each process in parallel.

[0149] The above-described embodiments have been described in detail to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure, and it is not intended that all of the above-described configurations are required. Furthermore, when multiple embodiments are described, each embodiment may be used alone or in combination. For example, it is possible to replace part of the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, or to add the configuration of another embodiment to the configuration of one embodiment. Furthermore, it is possible to add, delete, or replace part of the configuration of one embodiment with another configuration.

[0150] The above explanation makes clear the industrial applicability of the present invention, and the present invention can be suitably applied to information processing systems that grasp the behavior of foreign visitors to Japan.

[0151] Some or all of the above embodiments may be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes. [Supplementary Note 1] A server device comprising: a storage means having a database that stores a coupon ID of a coupon issued to each of a plurality of users and attribute information of each of the plurality of users in association with each other; a coupon usage control means that receives a coupon usage notification including a coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by the use of the coupon, identifies the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification, and stores behavior information obtained from the payment information as a behavior history of the identified coupon user in the database; and an information provision control means that generates provided information using the attribute information and behavior history stored in the database and outputs the generated provided information. [Supplementary Note 2] The server device according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the coupon usage control means receives the coupon usage notification from a terminal installed at a service provider. [Supplementary Note 3] The server device according to Supplementary Note 2, wherein the information provision control means generates a behavior history for each user attribute as the provided information. [Supplementary Note 4] The server device according to Supplementary Note 3, wherein the coupon is issued to a foreign visitor to Japan who has obtained a two-dimensional barcode by completing immigration procedures through a predetermined online procedure. [Supplementary Note 5] The server device according to Supplementary Note 4, further comprising coupon issuance control means for, upon receiving a coupon issuance request from a predetermined terminal, the server device issuing a coupon to the coupon desirer and transmitting a coupon ID of the issued coupon to the terminal carried by the coupon desirer. [Supplementary Note 6] The server device according to Supplementary Note 5, wherein the coupon usage control means receives a coupon usage eligibility determination request, the coupon ID being presented by the coupon desirer, from a terminal installed at the service provider, the coupon ID being presented, the validity of the coupon corresponding to the coupon ID, and notifying the terminal installed at the service provider of the determination result.[Supplementary Note 7] A system comprising: a terminal installed at a service provider; and a server device, wherein the server device comprises: a storage means having a database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users in association with attribute information of each of the plurality of users; a coupon usage control means that receives, from the terminal installed at the service provider, a coupon usage notification that includes the coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by the use of the coupon, identifies the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification, and stores behavioral information obtained from the payment information as a behavioral history of the identified coupon user in the database; and an information provision control means that generates information to be provided using the attribute information and behavioral history stored in the database, and outputs the generated information to be provided. [Supplementary Note 8] A control method for a server device having a storage means and a database that stores, in association with each other, coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users and attribute information of each of the plurality of users, the following: receiving a coupon usage notification including the coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by using the coupon, identifying the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification, storing behavioral information obtained from the payment information in the database as a behavioral history of the identified coupon user, generating provided information using the attribute information and behavioral history stored in the database, and outputting the generated provided information.[Supplementary Note 9] A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer mounted on a server device having a storage means and a database that stores, in association with each other, coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users and attribute information of each of the plurality of users, to execute the following processes: receiving a coupon usage notification including the coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by the use of the coupon, and identifying the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification; storing behavioral information obtained from the payment information in the database as a behavioral history of the identified coupon user; and generating provision information using the attribute information and behavioral history stored in the database, and outputting the generated provision information.

[0152] The disclosures of the above-cited prior art documents are incorporated herein by reference. Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. In other words, the present invention naturally includes various modifications and alterations that may be made by those skilled in the art in accordance with the entire disclosure, including the claims, and the technical concepts thereof.

[0153] 10 Server device 20 Staff terminal 30 Payment terminal 30-1 Payment terminal 30-2 Payment terminal 40 Terminal 100 Server device 101 Storage means 102 Coupon use control means 103 Information provision control means 201 Communication control unit 202 Coupon issuance control unit 203 Coupon use control unit 204 Information provision control unit 205 Storage unit 311 Processor 312 Memory 313 Input / output interface 314 Communication interface

Claims

1. a storage means including a database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users and attribute information of each of the plurality of users in association with each other; a coupon usage control means for receiving a coupon usage notification including a coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by the use of the coupon, identifying the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification, and storing behavioral information obtained from the payment information as a behavioral history of the identified coupon user in the database; an information provision control means for generating information to be provided by using the attribute information and the behavior history stored in the database and outputting the generated information to be provided; A server device comprising:

2. 2. The server device according to claim 1, wherein said coupon usage control means receives said coupon usage notification from a terminal installed at a service provider.

3. The server device according to claim 2 , wherein the information provision control means generates, as the information to be provided, a behavior history for each attribute of the user.

4. 4. The server device according to claim 3, wherein the coupon is issued to a foreign visitor to Japan who has acquired a two-dimensional barcode by completing a predetermined online immigration procedure.

5. The server device according to claim 4, further comprising a coupon issuance control means that, when a coupon issuance request including the attribute information obtained from the two-dimensional barcode presented by a person wishing to issue a coupon is received from a predetermined terminal, issues a coupon to the person wishing to issue a coupon and transmits a coupon ID of the issued coupon to the terminal held by the person wishing to issue a coupon.

6. The coupon usage control means A request for determining whether or not a coupon can be used is received from a terminal installed at the service provider, the request including the coupon ID presented by the person who wishes to use the coupon; 6. The server device according to claim 5, wherein the server device determines the validity of the coupon corresponding to the coupon ID and notifies the determination result to a terminal installed at the service provider.

7. a terminal installed at a service provider; a server device; Including, The server device a storage means including a database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users and attribute information of each of the plurality of users in association with each other; a coupon usage control means for receiving, from a terminal installed at the service provider, a coupon usage notification including a coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by the use of the coupon, identifying the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification, and storing behavioral information obtained from the payment information as a behavioral history of the identified coupon user in the database; an information provision control means for generating information to be provided by using the attribute information and the behavior history stored in the database and outputting the generated information to be provided; A system comprising:

8. A server device including a storage means and a database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users in association with attribute information of each of the plurality of users, receiving a coupon usage notification including a coupon ID of a coupon used by the coupon user and payment information generated by the use of the coupon, and identifying the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification; storing behavioral information obtained from the payment information in the database as a behavioral history of the identified coupon user; A method for controlling a server device, which generates information to be provided using attribute information and behavior history stored in the database, and outputs the generated information to be provided.

9. A computer installed in a server device includes a storage means and a database that stores coupon IDs of coupons issued to each of a plurality of users in association with attribute information of each of the plurality of users. receiving a coupon usage notification including a coupon ID of a coupon used by a coupon user and payment information generated by the use of the coupon, and identifying the coupon user from among the plurality of users using the coupon ID included in the coupon usage notification; a process of storing behavioral information obtained from the payment information in the database as a behavioral history of the identified coupon user; generating information to be provided using the attribute information and the behavior history stored in the database, and outputting the generated information to be provided; A program to execute.