Quotation creation assistance system, quotation creation assistance server, quotation creation assistance method, and quotation creation assistance program
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/JP2025/011926
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-01
Smart Images
Figure JP2025011926_01102026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Estimate creation support system, estimate creation support server, estimate creation support method, and estimate creation support program The present disclosure relates to an estimate creation support system, an estimate creation support server, an estimate creation support method, and an estimate creation support program. International Publication No. 2024 / 014445 discloses an information processing system that outputs the outer dimensions of a box for packing a payload only by inputting payload information. This information processing system comprises a competitive estimate means (for example, paragraph
[0053] ), and it is disclosed that the competitive estimate means requests competitive estimates from a plurality of businesses. Also, Japanese Patent No. 7569986 discloses a transport management system for realizing transport of a conveyed article from a departure place to a destination. It is disclosed that this transport management system obtains competitive estimates from a plurality of subordinate systems (for example, paragraph
[0030] ). When transporting an article, it is necessary to set detailed conditions. For example, when transporting an article by sea, it is necessary to select whether the transportation mode is that a shipper rents a container on a per-unit basis, or a transportation mode in which cargoes from a plurality of shippers are mixed and loaded in one container. Alternatively, for example, when transporting an article, it is necessary to set detailed transportation conditions while considering the characteristics of the article (for example, whether it is a dangerous article or not). Therefore, when requesting an estimate of the cost required for transporting an article, it is necessary to set the above detailed transportation conditions and then request competitive estimates from a plurality of businesses (for example, forwarders, etc.). Although International Publication No. 2024 / 014445 and Japanese Patent No. 7569986 disclose creating competitive estimates, they do not consider setting the detailed transportation conditions as described above. The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to easily and efficiently obtain an estimate of a cost required for transporting an article. To achieve the above objective, a first aspect of this disclosure is an estimate creation support system including a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, wherein the first user terminal is operated by a first user who requests the creation of an estimate for logistics costs, and the second user terminals are operated by a second user who creates an estimate for logistics costs, and when creating an estimate for the costs of transporting goods from a departure point (source) to a destination (destination), the estimate creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminal, and the first user terminal is displayed by the estimate creation support server This is an estimate creation support system in which, in response to the operation of the first user on a screen, requests for comparative quotes for each of several different types of transportation are registered with the estimate creation support server, each of several second user terminals registers cost estimates corresponding to the comparative quote requests with the estimate creation support server in response to the operation of the second user on a screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, and the first user terminal obtains a cost estimate for transporting the goods by combining the results of the comparative quotes registered for each different type of transportation in response to the operation of the first user on a screen displayed by the estimate creation support server. Furthermore, a second aspect of this disclosure is an estimate creation support server in an estimate creation support system including a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, wherein the first user terminal is a terminal operated by a first user who requests the creation of an estimate for logistics costs, and the second user terminals are terminals operated by a second user who creates an estimate for logistics costs, and when creating an estimate for the costs of transporting goods from a departure point (source) to a destination (destination), the estimate creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminal, and the first user terminal is displayed by the estimate creation support server. The estimate creation support server registers a request for comparative quotes for each of several different types of transportation methods to the estimate creation support server in response to the operation of the first user on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, and each of the several second user terminals registers a cost estimate corresponding to the comparative quote request to the estimate creation support server in response to the operation of the second user on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, and the first user terminal obtains a cost estimate for transporting the goods by combining the results of the comparative quotes registered for each different type of transportation method in response to the operation of the first user on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server. Furthermore, a third aspect of this disclosure is a method for creating estimates in an estimate creation support system, which includes a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, wherein the first user terminal is operated by a first user who requests the creation of an estimate for logistics costs, and the second user terminals are operated by a second user who creates an estimate for logistics costs, and when creating an estimate for the costs of transporting goods from a departure point (source) to a destination (destination), the estimate creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminal, and the first user terminal is operated by the estimate creation support server This is a computer-based method for creating estimates, in which, in response to the operation of the first user on the displayed screen, a request for comparative quotes for each of several different types of transportation is registered with the estimate creation support server; each of the several second user terminals registers a cost estimate corresponding to the comparative quote request with the estimate creation support server in response to the operation of the second user on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server; and the first user terminal obtains a cost estimate for transporting the goods by combining the results of the comparative quotes registered for each different type of transportation in response to the operation of the first user on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server. Furthermore, a fourth aspect of this disclosure is an estimate creation support program executed by an estimate creation support server in an estimate creation support system including a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, wherein the first user terminal is a terminal operated by a first user who requests the creation of an estimate for logistics costs, and the second user terminal is a terminal operated by a second user who creates an estimate for logistics costs, and when creating an estimate for the costs of transporting goods from a departure point (source) to a destination (destination), the estimate creation support server causes a screen to be displayed on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminal, and the first user terminal is displayed by the estimate creation support server This is an estimate creation support program that causes a computer to execute a process in which, in response to the operation of the first user on a screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, a request for comparative quotes for each of several different types of transportation is registered with the estimate creation support server, each of several second user terminals registers a cost estimate corresponding to the comparative quote request with the estimate creation support server in response to the operation of the second user on a screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, and the first user terminal obtains a cost estimate for transporting the goods by combining the results of the comparative quotes registered for each different type of transportation in response to the operation of the first user on a screen displayed by the estimate creation support server. According to this disclosure, the effect is that it is possible to obtain an estimate of the costs associated with transporting goods in a simple and efficient manner. This is a diagram illustrating the overview of the estimate creation support system of this embodiment. This is a diagram illustrating an example of the schematic configuration of the estimate creation support system of this embodiment. This is a schematic block diagram of the computers that function as each device of the estimate creation support system. This is a diagram illustrating the processes performed by the estimate creation support system of this embodiment. This is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed by the estimate creation support server The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. [Embodiment] <Overview of the Quotation Creation Support System> Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the overview of the estimate creation support system of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment, a user belonging to the sales department of a trading company (hereinafter simply referred to as "sales user") requests a user belonging to the logistics department of the trading company (hereinafter simply referred to as "logistics user") to provide an estimate of the costs incurred in transporting a certain item from its origin to its destination. The logistics user requests multiple quotes from users belonging to several partner companies (hereinafter simply referred to as "quote users") for the costs incurred in transporting the item. As shown in Figure 1, consider a case where a sales user UE requests a logistics user UB to provide an estimate for the cost of transporting a certain item. In this case, the logistics user UB considers the characteristics of the item in question and examines the transport route from the origin to the destination. Then, the logistics user requests comparative estimates for transport costs from several partner companies, each belonging to a group of estimation users Ux, Uy, and Uz, according to the examined transport route. In this case, the transport of the item from the origin to the destination is carried out by various means of transport, such as land transport, sea transport, and air transport. Therefore, logistics users request quotes for the costs of land transportation along the route from, for example, quotation users Ux1, Ux2, and Ux3, who belong to a group of partner companies that are land freight forwarders. Note that each of the quotation users Ux1, Ux2, and Ux3 belongs to a different partner company. Furthermore, logistics users request comparative quotes for the costs of sea freight routes along their transportation paths from, for example, quotation users Uy1, Uy2, and Uy3, who belong to a group of partner companies that are freight forwarders specializing in sea transport. Note that each of the quotation users Uy1, Uy2, and Uy3 belongs to a different partner company. Furthermore, logistics users request comparative quotes for air freight routes along their transportation paths from, for example, quotation users Uz1, Uz2, and Uz3, who belong to a group of partner companies that are air freight forwarders. Note that each of the quotation users Uz1, Uz2, and Uz3 belongs to a different partner company. The logistics user then calculates the final cost estimate by combining the results of the multiple quotes. In the following, any of the multiple quoting users Ux1, Ux2, and Ux3 will be simply referred to as "quoting user Ux". Also, in the following, any of the multiple quoting users Uy1, Uy2, and Uy3 will be simply referred to as "quoting user Uy". Also, in the following, any of the multiple quoting users Uz1, Uz2, and Uz3 will be simply referred to as "quoting user Uz". When requesting multiple quotes as described above, setting the conditions for creating those quotes is extremely complex. For example, it is necessary to consider how the transportation route will be set up, and from where to where and by what means of transport. Furthermore, the details of the transportation method must be determined according to the nature of the goods to be transported (e.g., whether or not they are hazardous materials), and then multiple quotes must be requested from partner companies. Moreover, if there are any changes to the quotation specifications (e.g., changes in the quantity of goods), multiple quotes must be requested again. Therefore, the estimate creation support system of this embodiment assists in creating estimates for the transportation costs of goods on the server. Specifically, by enabling the request and creation of estimates for the transportation costs of goods on the server, estimates for the transportation costs of goods can be obtained simply and efficiently. A detailed explanation follows below. <System Configuration of the Quotation Creation Support System> Figure 1 is a block diagram of the estimate creation support system 10 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the estimate creation support system 10 of this embodiment includes an estimate creation support server 14, a sales user terminal 16 operated by a sales user, a logistics user terminal 18 operated by a logistics user, land transport user terminals 20A, 20B, 20C operated by estimate users Ux1, Ux2, Ux3 belonging to a partner company in charge of land transport, sea transport user terminals 22A, 22B, 22C operated by estimate users Uy1, Uy2, Uy3 belonging to a partner company in charge of sea transport, and air transport user terminals 24A, 24B, 24C operated by estimate users Uz1, Uz2, Uz3 belonging to a partner company in charge of air transport. The quotation creation support server 14, the sales user terminal 16, the logistics user terminal 18, the land transport user terminals 20A, 20B, 20C, the sea transport user terminals 22A, 22B, 22C, and the air transport user terminals 24A, 24B, 24C are all connected to each other via a network 26, such as the Internet. In the following, any of the land transport user terminals 20A, 20B, 20C will simply be referred to as "land transport user terminal 20". In the following, any of the sea transport user terminals 22A, 22B, 22C will simply be referred to as "sea transport user terminal 22". In the following, any of the air transport user terminals 24A, 24B, 24C will simply be referred to as "air transport user terminal 24". (Estimate creation support server 14) The estimate creation support server 14 outputs input and output screens necessary when requesting and creating estimates for the transportation costs of goods. The estimate creation support server 14 also has a storage unit (not shown) that can register various information necessary for creating estimates. (Sales user terminal 16) As described above, the sales user terminal 16 is a terminal operated by the sales user UE. The sales user UE operates the sales user terminal 16 and accesses the quotation creation support server 14. The sales user UE then requests the logistics user UB to provide a quote for the transportation costs of goods by inputting various information into the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server 14. (Logistics user terminal 18) As described above, the logistics user terminal 18 is a terminal operated by logistics user UB. Logistics user UB operates the logistics user terminal 18 to access the quotation creation support server 14. Then, by inputting various information on the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server 14, logistics user UB requests comparative quotes for the transportation costs of goods from quotation users belonging to each of several partner companies. Note that the logistics user is an example of the first user in this disclosure. (Land transport user terminal 20) The land transport user terminal 20 is operated by estimation user Ux, who belongs to a partner company responsible for land transport. Estimation user Ux operates the land transport user terminal 20 and accesses the estimation creation support server 14. Estimation user Ux then creates an estimate for the land transport costs of goods by inputting various information into the screen displayed by the estimation creation support server 14. (User terminal 22 for maritime transport) The maritime transport user terminal 22 is operated by estimation user Uy, who belongs to a partner company responsible for maritime transport. Estimation user Uy operates the maritime transport user terminal 22 and accesses the estimation creation support server 14. Estimation user Uy then creates an estimate for the cost of maritime transport of goods by inputting various information into the screen displayed by the estimation creation support server 14. (Air transport user terminal 24) The air transport user terminal 24 is operated by estimation user Uz, who belongs to a partner company responsible for air transport. Estimation user Uz operates the air transport user terminal 24 and accesses the estimation creation support server 14. Estimation user Uz then creates an estimate for the air transport costs of goods by inputting various information into the screen displayed by the estimation creation support server 14. Note that the quotation users Ux, Uy, and Uz are examples of second users in this disclosure. In this embodiment, the example is given of land transport, sea transport, and air transport as means of transporting goods, but is not limited thereto. For example, other means of transport may be included. Also, partner companies may include, for example, partner companies that provide warehouses. Each of the quotation creation support servers 14, sales user terminals 16, logistics user terminals 18, land transport user terminals 20, sea transport user terminals 22, and air transport user terminals 24 of the quotation creation support system 10 can be implemented, for example, by the computer 70 shown in Figure 3. The computer 70 includes a CPU 71, memory 72 as a temporary storage area, and a non-volatile storage unit 73. The computer 70 also includes an input / output interface (I / F) 74 to which input / output devices, etc. (not shown) are connected, and a read / write (R / W) unit 75 that controls the reading and writing of data to the recording medium. The computer 70 also includes a network I / F 76 that is connected to a network such as the Internet. The CPU 71, memory 72, storage unit 73, input / output I / F 74, R / W unit 75, and network I / F 76 are connected to each other via a bus 77. The storage unit 73 can be implemented using a Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid State Drive (SSD), Flash Memory, etc. The storage unit 73, as a storage medium, stores a program for making the computer 70 function. The CPU 71 reads the program from the storage unit 73, loads it into memory 72, and sequentially executes the processes contained in the program. <Functions of the Quotation Creation Support System 10> Next, the operation of the estimate creation support system 10 of this embodiment will be described. The estimation support system 10 executes the sequence shown in Figure 4. During this process, the estimation support server 14 displays various screens on the display unit of the sales user terminal 16 (not shown) and the display unit of the logistics user terminal 18 (not shown). In step S100, the sales user UE requests the creation of a cost estimate for transporting goods from the origin (departure point) to the destination (destination point) by operating the sales user terminal 16. Specifically, the sales user terminal 16 accesses the estimate creation support server 14 and, in response to the sales user UE's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server 14, sends a request for a cost estimate for transporting goods to the estimate creation support server 14. In step S102, the estimate creation support server 14 registers the request for an estimate of the cost of transporting the goods, which was obtained from the sales user terminal 16, into its own storage unit (not shown). Figures 5 to 9 show examples of screens displayed on the display unit (not shown) of the sales user terminal 16. As shown in Figure 5, the sales user UE inputs basic information 100 of the company that received the order for the transportation of goods and transportation information 102 related to the transportation by operating the sales user terminal 16. Also, as shown in Figure 6, the sales user UE inputs various information from the transportation information 102, such as the planned shipping date, shipping frequency, transportation method, cargo type, temperature control, and Incoterms, by operating the sales user terminal 16. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, the sales user UE inputs various information such as cargo information 104 by operating the sales user terminal 16. Furthermore, sales users (UE) can automatically obtain an estimated cost for transporting goods by checking the "Request an estimated automatic quote" section 106 on the screen shown in Figure 7. In this case, an estimated cost for transporting goods can be obtained automatically and immediately by considering the costs set in advance between the companies to which the sales user and logistics user belong and the company to which the quoting user belongs (for example, costs set through bidding, etc.). While inputting the various types of information described above, the sales user UE can display the chat screen 108 shown in Figure 8 by operating the sales user terminal 16. On this chat screen 108, a chat takes place between the sales user UE, "Suzuki Taro," and the logistics user UB, "Kato Yuko." Direct dialogue between the sales user UE and the logistics user UB enables smoother quotation requests. For example, in the example shown in Figure 8, the sales user UE, "Suzuki Taro," is asking the logistics user UB, "Kato Yuko," about the input method. Once the various pieces of information described above have been entered, the sales user UE completes the request for a quote on the transportation costs of goods from the logistics user UB by performing the prescribed operations. Figure 9 shows an example of a list of quotes requested by a sales user UE belonging to Company A. As shown in Figure 9, the sales user UE can check the progress of the cost estimates on the screen displayed by the quote creation support server 14. For example, in the example shown in Figure 9, the progress of the cost estimates is shown as "Preparing," "Creating," "Awaiting Approval," and "Completed." Next, in step S104, the logistics user terminal 18 registers requests for comparative quotes for each of several different types of transportation methods with the quotation creation support server 14, in response to the operations of the logistics user UB on the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server 14. In step S106, the quotation creation support server 14 registers the request for competitive bidding obtained from the logistics user terminal 18 into its own storage unit (not shown). Figures 10 to 16 show examples of screens displayed on the display unit (not shown) of the logistics user terminal 18. As shown in Figure 10, the logistics user UB inputs various information necessary for obtaining multiple quotes by operating the logistics user terminal 18. As shown in Figure 10, the left side of the screen displays transportation icon 110 representing several different types of transportation. The logistics user UB can set the transportation conditions for the transportation method corresponding to one of the transportation icon 110 by specifying that icon. For example, in the example shown in Figure 10, the "AIR (FCL)" icon is specified, and this icon corresponds to air transportation. In this case, the logistics user UB sets the transportation conditions for air transportation by inputting information in the respective fields shown on the right side of the screen. The logistics user UB displays a transportation conditions input screen on the right side of the screen by specifying each of the several different transportation icon 110 displayed on the left side of the screen, and inputs the transportation conditions for that transportation method into that input screen. Furthermore, when requesting multiple quotes via the quote creation support server 14, it is possible to add relevant items necessary for the transportation of goods on the screen. Figure 11 is an example of a screen for adding relevant items. As shown in Figure 11, by adding relevant items necessary for the transportation of goods, it becomes possible to request multiple quotes based on more detailed transportation conditions. Once all the necessary information has been entered, logistics user UB requests multiple quotes from the various companies that provide the transportation methods corresponding to the transportation method icons 110 shown in Figure 10, namely quotation users Ux, Uy, and Uz, who belong to each of these companies. For example, let's assume that the settings for air transport "AIR (FCL)" have been completed, as shown in Figure 12. In this case, logistics user UB will operate the logistics user terminal 18 to display a screen like the one shown in Figure 13. Then, by operating the logistics user terminal 18, logistics user UB will send a request for multiple quotes to the multiple quoting users shown in Figure 13. Specifically, the request for multiple quotes is sent to the email addresses of the multiple quoting users shown in Figure 13, namely "yamada.taro@xxx.co.jp", "kimura.ayako@xxx.co.jp", and "yuji.tanaka@xxx.com", by sending an email to them. As shown in Figure 14, when a logistics user UB selects a transportation method icon (for example, "AIR (FCL)"), company icons representing each of the multiple companies that provide the transportation method corresponding to that icon (for example, Company C, Company D, and Company E) are displayed. Then, as shown in Figure 14, when a logistics user UB selects a company icon (for example, Company C), a chat screen 112 is displayed between the user and a quotation user belonging to the company corresponding to that icon, enabling individual dialogue with that quotation user. This allows, for example, the quotation user to make inquiries to the logistics user, making it possible to create a more appropriate cost estimate. Once logistics user UB completes the request for comparative quotes for various transportation methods, the quoting users Ux, Uy, and Uz belonging to each company begin creating cost estimates. Figures 15A to 15C show examples of screens displayed on the display units of each user terminal (for example, land transport user terminal 20, sea transport user terminal 22, and air transport user terminal 24) when estimation users Ux, Uy, and Uz create cost estimates. As shown in Figures 15A to 15C, each user creates a cost estimate by operating the respective input fields on the logistics cost estimation screen. Specifically, in step S108, the land transport user terminal 20 registers the cost estimate based on the comparative quote request registered in step S106 to the quote creation support server 14 in response to the operation of the quote user Ux. In step S110, the user terminal 22 in charge of maritime transport registers the cost estimate based on the comparative quote request registered in step S106 to the quote creation support server 14 in response to the operation of the quote user Uy. In step S112, the air transport user terminal 24 registers the cost estimate based on the comparative quote request registered in step S106 to the quote creation support server 14 in response to the operation of the quote user Uz. Figure 16 shows an example of a screen displaying the results of a comparative quote. In the example shown in Figure 16, the comparative quote results for "SEA (FCL)" are displayed. Although not shown in Figure 16, it is also possible to display comparative quote results for other modes of transport on the screen. As will be described later, the logistics user UB calculates the final cost estimate by combining these comparative quote results. In step S114, the logistics user terminal 18 obtains a cost estimate for transporting goods by combining the results of comparative quotes registered for each different type of transportation method, in response to an operation by the logistics user UB. For example, the logistics user UB calculates the final cost estimate by combining the cheapest cost estimates from the comparative quote results. Then, the logistics user UB performs an operation to publish the final cost estimate on the estimate creation support server 14. Figure 17 is a diagram showing an example of the final cost estimate screen. As shown in Figure 17, the final cost estimate is calculated based on the comparative quote results and published on the estimate creation support server 14. In step S116, the sales user UE confirms the cost estimate calculated in step S114 by operating the sales user terminal 16. In this embodiment, the display format of the icons is changed according to the selected Incoterms. Incoterms are terms of international trade, and are intended to avoid misunderstandings and misinterpretations of trade terms. Depending on the Incoterms selected in a trade transaction, it is determined who bears what extent of the costs and risks incurred in the trade transaction. Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating the changes in the display format of icons according to Incoterms. As shown in Figure 18, the cost burden of the shipper (goods) and the cost burden of the consignee (goods) changes depending on the selected Incoterms, so in this embodiment, the display format of the icons is changed accordingly. In the example shown in Figure 18, icon S, represented by a solid line, represents the portion of the cost burden borne by the shipper, and icon C, represented by a dashed line, represents the portion of the cost burden borne by the consignee. Icon P1 shown in Figure 18 represents transportation (air or sea transport) from the exporting country to the importing country. Icon P2 shown in Figure 18 represents cargo handling in the exporting country. Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 18, the costs of inspection / packaging, loading, transportation, export customs clearance, handling, and delivery of goods in the exporting country are borne by the shipper, while the costs of handling, import customs clearance, delivery, and unloading in the exporting country are borne by the consignee. For this reason, on the screen of this embodiment, icons related to the costs borne by the shipper of the goods and icons related to the costs borne by the consignee of the goods are displayed in a distinguishable manner. As described above, the estimate creation support system according to the embodiment includes a logistics user terminal, which is an example of a first user terminal; a land transport user terminal, a sea transport user terminal, and an air transport user terminal, which are examples of a plurality of second user terminals; and an estimate creation support server. The logistics user terminal of the estimate creation support system is a terminal operated by a logistics user who requests the creation of an estimate for logistics costs, while the land transport user terminal, sea transport user terminal, and air transport user terminal are terminals operated by estimate users who create estimates for logistics costs. When creating an estimate for the cost of transporting goods from the origin to the destination, the estimate creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the logistics user terminal and on the display units of the land transport user terminal, sea transport user terminal, and air transport user terminal. In response to the logistics user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, the logistics user terminal registers requests for comparative estimates for each of several different types of transport methods to the estimate creation support server. Each of the multiple user terminals responsible for land transport, sea transport, and air transport registers cost estimates corresponding to comparative quote requests to the estimation support server in response to the user's operations on the screen displayed by the estimation support server. The logistics user terminal obtains a cost estimate for transporting goods by combining the results of comparative quotes registered for each different type of transport, in response to the logistics user's operations on the screen displayed by the estimation support server. This makes it possible to obtain cost estimates for transporting goods simply and efficiently. Specifically, the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server shows transportation icon representing several different types of transportation. By selecting one transportation icon, it is possible to set the transportation conditions for the transportation method corresponding to that icon. By setting the transportation conditions, logistics users can request multiple quotes at once from multiple companies that provide the transportation method corresponding to the specified transportation icon. This allows for the simultaneous request of multiple quotes based on the same transportation conditions from multiple partner companies that provide the same type of transportation. Furthermore, the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server shows transportation icon representing each of several different types of transportation. When one transportation icon is selected, company icons representing each of the multiple companies that provide that transportation method are displayed. When one company icon is selected, a chat screen is displayed between the user requesting the quote and the company belonging to that company, enabling individual communication with the user requesting the quote. This makes it possible to request multiple quotes more smoothly. This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and applications are possible without departing from the gist of this disclosure. For example, the above embodiment of the quotation creation support system was described using the example of use within a trading company, but it is not limited to this. The above embodiment of the quotation creation support system can be used in various situations where it is necessary to create a quotation for the transportation of goods. For example, the quotation creation support system can also be used within a general company. In this case, for example, the logistics user may be replaced by a freight forwarder. Furthermore, it is possible to perform data analysis related to the transportation of goods based on the data collected in the estimate creation support system of the above embodiment. In addition, the comparative estimate request in the estimate creation support system of the above embodiment can be modified as needed, and version control of the comparative estimate request is possible in this case. In this case, for example, it is possible to request the estimate user to change only a part of the comparative estimate request. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, each process that the CPU reads and executes software (programs) may be executed by various processors other than the CPU. Examples of such processors include PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices) whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacturing, such as FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays), and dedicated electrical circuits that have a circuit configuration specifically designed to execute a particular process, such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits). Each process may be executed by one of these various processors, or by a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, multiple FPGAs, and a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). More specifically, the hardware structure of these various processors is an electrical circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements. Furthermore, although the above embodiment describes a configuration in which each program is pre-stored (installed) in a storage device, the invention is not limited to this. The program may be provided in a form stored on a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, Blu-ray disc, or USB memory. Alternatively, the program may be provided in a form that is downloaded from an external device via a network. (Note) The following is an addendum regarding the nature of this disclosure. (Note 1) An estimate creation support system including a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, The first user terminal is a terminal operated by a first user who requests creation of a logistics cost estimate, The second user terminal is a terminal operated by a second user who creates the logistics cost estimate, When creating a cost estimate for transporting an article from a departure point that is a shipping source to an arrival point that is a shipping destination, The estimate creation support server causes the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminal to display a screen, The first user terminal registers, in the estimate creation support server, a request for comparative estimates for each of a plurality of different types of transportation means in accordance with an operation performed by the first user on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, Each of the plurality of second user terminals registers, in the estimate creation support server, a cost estimate corresponding to the comparative estimate request in accordance with an operation performed by the second user on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, The first user terminal obtains a cost estimate for transporting the article by combining the results of the comparative estimates registered for each of the different types of transportation means in accordance with an operation performed by the first user on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, An estimate creation support system. (Supplementary Note 2) On the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, a transportation means icon representing each of a plurality of different types of transportation means is displayed, by designating one said transportation means icon, it is possible to set the transportation conditions for the transportation means corresponding to said transportation means icon, by setting said transportation conditions, the first user can collectively request comparative estimates from the second users that belong to each of a plurality of companies that provide the transportation means corresponding to said transportation means icon, The estimate creation support system according to Supplementary Note 1. (Supplementary Note 3) The screen displayed by the aforementioned estimate creation support server includes: A transportation icon representing each of several different types of transportation is displayed. When one of the aforementioned transportation means icons is selected, company icons representing each of the multiple companies that provide the transportation means corresponding to that transportation means icon are displayed. When one of the aforementioned company icons is selected, a chat screen is displayed between the user and the second user belonging to the company corresponding to that company icon, enabling individual conversation with the second user. The quotation creation support system described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2. (Note 4) When calculating the cost estimate for transporting the aforementioned goods, It is possible to incorporate pre-set costs (such as bidding) between the company to which the first user belongs and the company to which the second user belongs. An estimate creation support system as described in any one of the items in Appendix 1 to Appendix 3. (Note 5) When requesting multiple quotes via the aforementioned quote creation support server, On the screen displayed by the aforementioned quotation creation support server, it is possible to add relevant items necessary for the transportation of goods. An estimate creation support system as described in any one of the items in Appendix 1 to Appendix 4. (Note 6) On the screen displayed by the aforementioned cost estimation support server, it is possible to check the progress of the cost estimation. An estimate creation support system as described in any one of the items 1 to 5 of the appendix. (Note 7) On the screen displayed by the aforementioned quotation creation support server, icons representing the costs borne by the consignor of the goods and icons representing the costs borne by the consignee of the goods are clearly displayed. An estimate creation support system as described in any one of the items 1 to 6 of the appendix. (Note 8) An estimate creation support server in an estimate creation support system including a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, The first user terminal is a terminal operated by the first user who requests the creation of a logistics cost estimate. The second user terminal is a terminal operated by a second user who creates an estimate of logistics costs, When creating a cost estimate for transporting goods from the originating point to the destination point, The aforementioned quotation creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminal. The first user terminal registers requests for comparative quotes for each of several different types of transportation methods to the quotation creation support server in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server. Each of the multiple second user terminals registers a cost estimate corresponding to the comparative quote request to the estimation support server in response to the second user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimation support server. The first user terminal obtains an estimate of the cost of transporting the goods by combining the results of the comparative quotations registered for each different type of transport method, in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server. Estimate creation support server. (Note 9) A method for creating an estimate in an estimate creation support system, which includes a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, the estimate creation support server performing the estimate creation support, The first user terminal is a terminal operated by the first user who requests the creation of a logistics cost estimate. The second user terminal is a terminal operated by a second user who creates an estimate of logistics costs, When creating a cost estimate for transporting goods from the originating point to the destination point, The aforementioned quotation creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminal. The first user terminal registers requests for comparative quotes for each of several different types of transportation methods to the quotation creation support server in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server. Each of the multiple second user terminals registers a cost estimate corresponding to the comparative quote request to the estimation support server in response to the second user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimation support server. The first user terminal obtains an estimate of the cost of transporting the goods by combining the results of the comparative quotations registered for each different type of transport method, in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server. A method for assisting in the creation of estimates, where a computer performs the processing. (Note 10) An estimate creation support program executed by an estimate creation support server in an estimate creation support system including a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, The first user terminal is a terminal operated by the first user who requests the creation of a logistics cost estimate. The second user terminal is a terminal operated by a second user who creates an estimate of logistics costs, When creating a cost estimate for transporting goods from the originating point to the destination point, The aforementioned quotation creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminal. The first user terminal registers requests for comparative quotes for each of several different types of transportation methods to the quotation creation support server in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server. Each of the multiple second user terminals registers a cost estimate corresponding to the comparative quote request to the estimation support server in response to the second user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimation support server. The first user terminal obtains an estimate of the cost of transporting the goods by combining the results of the comparative quotations registered for each different type of transport method, in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server. A program that assists in creating estimates for processing tasks performed by a computer. All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual document, patent application, and technical standard were specifically and individually noted to be incorporated by reference.
Claims
1. An estimate creation support system including a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, wherein the first user terminal is operated by a first user who requests the creation of an estimate for logistics costs, the second user terminals are operated by a second user who creates an estimate for logistics costs, and when creating an estimate for the cost of transporting goods from a departure point (source) to a destination (destination), the estimate creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminals, the first user terminal registers a request for comparative quotes for each of a plurality of different types of transport methods to the estimate creation support server in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, and each of the plurality of second user terminals registers an estimate corresponding to the comparative quote request to the estimate creation support server in response to the second user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server. The first user terminal is an estimate creation support system that obtains an estimate of the cost of transporting the goods by combining the results of the comparative estimates registered for each different type of transport method, in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server.
2. The quotation creation support system according to claim 1, wherein the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server displays transportation icon representing each of several different types of transportation, and by specifying one of the transportation icon, it is possible to set the transportation conditions for the transportation corresponding to the transportation icon, and by setting the transportation conditions, the first user can request comparative quotations from each of several companies that provide the transportation corresponding to the transportation icon, for the second user.
3. The quotation creation support system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server displays transportation icon representing each of several different types of transportation; when one of the transportation icon is selected, company icons representing each of several companies that provide the transportation corresponding to the transportation icon are displayed; and when one of the company icons is selected, a chat screen is displayed between the user and the second user belonging to the company corresponding to the company icon, enabling individual conversation with the second user.
4. The cost estimation support system according to claim 1 or 2, which, when calculating the cost estimate for transporting the aforementioned goods, can incorporate pre-set costs between the company to which the first user belongs and the company to which the second user belongs.
5. The quotation creation support system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when requesting comparative quotations via the quotation creation support server, it is possible to add relevant items necessary for the transportation of goods on the screen displayed by the quotation creation support server.
6. The cost estimation support system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the progress of the cost estimation can be checked on a screen displayed by the cost estimation support server.
7. The estimate creation support system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server clearly displays icons representing the costs borne by the consignor of the goods and icons representing the costs borne by the consignee of the goods.
8. An estimate creation support server in an estimate creation support system, comprising a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, wherein the first user terminal is operated by a first user who requests the creation of an estimate for logistics costs, the second user terminals are operated by a second user who creates an estimate for logistics costs, and when creating an estimate for the costs of transporting goods from a departure point (source) to a destination (destination), the estimate creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminals, the first user terminal registers a request for comparative quotes for each of a plurality of different types of transport methods to the estimate creation support server in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, and each of the plurality of second user terminals registers an estimate corresponding to the comparative quote request to the estimate creation support server in response to the second user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server. The first user terminal is an estimate creation support server that, in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, obtains an estimate of the cost of transporting the goods by combining the results of the comparative estimates registered for each different type of transport method.
9. A method for creating an estimate in an estimate creation support system, comprising a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, wherein the first user terminal is operated by a first user who requests the creation of an estimate for logistics costs, the second user terminals are operated by a second user who creates an estimate for logistics costs, and when creating an estimate for the costs of transporting goods from a departure point (source) to an arrival point (destination), the estimate creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminals, the first user terminal registers a request for comparative quotes for each of a plurality of different types of transportation methods to the estimate creation support server in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, and each of the plurality of second user terminals registers an estimate corresponding to the comparative quote request to the estimate creation support server in response to the second user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server. An estimation support method in which a computer performs a process to obtain an estimate of the cost of transporting the goods by combining the results of comparative estimates registered for each different type of transport method, in response to the operation of the first user terminal on a screen displayed by the estimation support server.
10. An estimate creation support program executed by an estimate creation support server in an estimate creation support system including a first user terminal, a plurality of second user terminals, and an estimate creation support server, wherein the first user terminal is a terminal operated by a first user who requests the creation of an estimate for logistics costs, the second user terminals are terminals operated by a second user who creates an estimate for logistics costs, and when creating an estimate for the costs of transporting goods from a departure point (source) to a destination (destination), the estimate creation support server displays a screen on the display unit of the first user terminal and the display unit of the second user terminals, the first user terminal registers a request for comparative quotes for each of a plurality of different types of transportation methods to the estimate creation support server in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server, and each of the plurality of second user terminals registers an estimate corresponding to the comparative quote request to the estimate creation support server in response to the second user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server. The first user terminal is an estimate creation support program that causes a computer to perform a process to obtain an estimate of the cost of transporting the goods by combining the results of the comparative estimates registered for each different type of transport method, in response to the first user's operation on the screen displayed by the estimate creation support server.