JP2011002943A - Printer driver, image forming apparatus, and questionnaire server - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printer driver, an image forming apparatus, and a questionnaire server for implementing questionnaires for a specific user in printing.SOLUTION: When accepting a print request, a printer driver notifies a questionnaire server 3 of application information on application software whose print request has been accepted on a PC 2, and receives questionnaire information corresponding to the application information from the questionnaire server 3. Then, the PC 2 presents the questionnaires based on the received questionnaire information to a user, accepts an answer input by the user, and transmits the questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to the questionnaire server 3.

Description

  The present invention relates to a printer driver, an image forming apparatus, and a questionnaire server. The present invention particularly relates to a printer driver, an image forming apparatus, and a questionnaire server for conducting a questionnaire to a user during printing.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, image forming apparatuses such as MFPs (Multi-Function Peripherals) and copiers are installed in places such as stores and offices and are used by an unspecified number of users.

  A system has been proposed in which a questionnaire is conducted when using such an image forming apparatus, and when the answer to the questionnaire is received, a charge amount for printing is set to a discount price (see Patent Document 1).

  According to the system described in Patent Document 1, the user can use the image forming apparatus at low cost, and the sponsor can use the questionnaire result for marketing research.

JP 2002-99808 A

  However, in the system described in Patent Document 1, since the same predetermined questionnaire is conducted for all users of the image forming apparatus, this questionnaire is a survey for an unspecified number of users having various user attributes. Become. That is, the system described in Patent Document 1 has a problem that it is not suitable for conducting a questionnaire for a certain customer (a user whose customer attributes are limited).

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a printer driver, an image forming apparatus, and a questionnaire server capable of conducting a questionnaire for a specific user during printing. Is to provide.

  The above object of the present invention is achieved by the following means.

  (1) A printer driver that operates on a computer and transmits a print job to an image forming apparatus. When a print request is accepted, a questionnaire that distributes questionnaire information about software that operates on the computer Providing the user with a procedure (a) for notifying the distribution server, a procedure (b) for receiving information regarding the questionnaire corresponding to the information regarding the software from the questionnaire distribution server, and a questionnaire based on the information regarding the received questionnaire A procedure (c) to receive, a procedure (d) to receive an input of an answer by the user for the presented questionnaire, and a procedure to send a questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to a questionnaire collection server that collects the questionnaire result (e ) And a questionnaire process having The printer driver for causing performed over data.

  (2) The printer driver according to (1), wherein the printer driver operates in cooperation with the software.

  (3) The printer driver according to (1) or (2), wherein the software is installed in the computer.

  (4) The questionnaire process further includes a procedure (f) for performing a process related to a reduction in printing fee when an input of a response to the questionnaire is accepted in response to the print request. The printer driver according to any one of (1) to (3).

  (5) In response to the questionnaire presentation request, the questionnaire processing is a procedure (g) for notifying the questionnaire distribution server of information related to software operating on the computer when a questionnaire presentation request is received. A step (h) of performing a process relating to points given to each user who can guarantee a reduction in printing fee for printing executed later when an input of an answer to the questionnaire by the user is received; The printer driver according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the printer driver is provided.

  (6) The printer driver as described in (4) or (5) above, wherein the reduction in the printing fee is charged to a software provider corresponding to the answered questionnaire.

  (7) The printer driver according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the software is application software that activates the printer driver.

  (8) The printer driver according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the software is an OS that provides a function used by the printer driver.

  (9) The questionnaire distribution server and the questionnaire collection server are configured by a single questionnaire server having both functions, and are described in any one of (1) to (8) above Printer driver.

  (10) A computer-readable recording medium on which the printer driver according to any one of (1) to (9) is recorded.

  (11) An image forming apparatus that performs printing, and when a print request is received, notification means for notifying information relating to software operating on the image forming apparatus to a questionnaire distribution server that distributes questionnaire information; Receiving means for receiving information related to the questionnaire corresponding to the information related to the software from the questionnaire distribution server, presenting means for presenting a questionnaire based on the received information related to the questionnaire, and answer by the user to the presented questionnaire An image forming apparatus comprising: an accepting unit that accepts an input of a message; and a sending unit that transmits a questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to a questionnaire collection server that collects the questionnaire result.

  (12) The apparatus according to (11), further comprising a reduction processing unit that performs processing related to a reduction in printing fee when an input of a response to the questionnaire is received in response to the print request. Image forming apparatus.

  (13) When a questionnaire presentation request is accepted, second notification means for notifying the questionnaire distribution server of information related to software operating on the image forming apparatus, and the questionnaire in response to the questionnaire presentation request And a point processing means for performing processing related to points given to each user who can guarantee a reduction in printing fee for printing executed later when the user inputs an answer to The image forming apparatus according to (11) or (12).

  (14) The image forming apparatus according to (12) or (13), wherein the reduction of the printing fee is charged to a software provider corresponding to the answered questionnaire.

  (15) The image forming apparatus according to any one of (11) to (14), wherein the software is application software in which a program for executing printing is started.

  (16) The image forming apparatus according to any one of (11) to (14), wherein the software is an OS that provides a function used by a program for executing printing.

  (17) The questionnaire distribution server and the questionnaire collection server may be configured by a single questionnaire server having both functions, according to any one of (11) to (16) above Image forming apparatus.

  (18) Storage means for storing information relating to a questionnaire to be presented to the user in association with software, receiving means for receiving information relating to software operating on a device that has received a print request from the device, and receiving A questionnaire server comprising: extraction means for extracting information relating to a questionnaire corresponding to information relating to the extracted software from the storage means; and transmission means for transmitting information relating to the extracted questionnaire to the device.

  (19) Questionnaire result receiving means for receiving a questionnaire result based on a user's answer to information on the transmitted questionnaire from the device, and a questionnaire result storage for storing the received questionnaire result in association with information about the corresponding software The questionnaire server according to (18), further comprising: means.

  (20) charging information receiving means for receiving information related to printing including a reduction in printing charge from the device; and charging management means for performing charge allocation management for printing based on the received information related to charging. The questionnaire server according to (18) or (19), further comprising:

  (21) Point information receiving means for receiving, from the device, information relating to points given to each user who can guarantee a reduction in printing fee for printing executed later, and information relating to the received points to the user. Point information storage means for storing in association with user identification information for identification; reply means for returning to the device inquiries regarding the existence of points for each user from the device; and for each user from the device The correction means for correcting the information related to the points in the point information storage means in response to the notification related to the consumption of points, further comprising (18) to (20) above, Survey server.

  (22) The questionnaire server as set forth in (20) or (21), wherein the reduction of the printing fee is charged to a software provider corresponding to the answered questionnaire.

  (23) A printer driver that operates on a computer and transmits a print job to an image forming apparatus. When a print request for a Web page displayed based on a URL is received, information about the URL is obtained as questionnaire information. (A) for notifying the questionnaire distribution server that distributes, a procedure (b) for receiving information related to the questionnaire corresponding to the information related to the URL from the questionnaire distribution server, and a questionnaire based on the information regarding the received questionnaire (C), a procedure (d) for accepting an input of an answer by the user for the presented questionnaire, and a questionnaire result based on the accepted answer is transmitted to the questionnaire collection server that collects the questionnaire result A questionnaire process comprising: The printer driver for causing a computer to execute the.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to carry out a questionnaire for a specific user during printing. That is, a questionnaire from a user who is actually using the software can be acquired, and a highly accurate questionnaire can be implemented. In addition, it is possible to provide a questionnaire from an actual user to a company that provides specific software.

1 is a block diagram showing an overall configuration of an image forming system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an MFP. FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of PC. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a questionnaire server. 3 is a sequence chart for explaining an outline of an operation of the image forming system according to the first embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in PC of 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in the questionnaire server of 1st Embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the MFP according to the first embodiment. 10 is a sequence chart for explaining an outline of an operation of an image forming system according to a second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in PC of 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in the questionnaire server of 2nd Embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the MFP according to the second embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of an accounting table. It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the image forming system concerning 3rd Embodiment. 10 is a sequence chart for explaining an outline of an operation of an image forming system according to a third embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in an MFP according to a third embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in the questionnaire server of 3rd Embodiment. 10 is a sequence chart for explaining an outline of an operation of an image forming system according to a fourth embodiment. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in an MFP according to a fourth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in the questionnaire server of 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in PC of 5th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a questionnaire acquisition and an answer process. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of point processing. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in the questionnaire server of 5th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process in the questionnaire server of 5th Embodiment which continues from FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in an MFP according to a fifth embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the image forming system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system includes an MFP 1 as an image forming apparatus, a PC (personal computer) 2 as a client terminal, and a questionnaire server 3, which communicate with each other via a network 4. Connected as possible.

  The network 4 includes various networks such as a LAN in which computers and network devices are connected according to standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark), token ring, and FDDI, or a WAN in which LANs are connected by a dedicated line.

  Subsequently, the configuration of each device described above will be described, but portions having similar functions in each device will be described only for the first time in order to avoid duplication of description, and description thereof will be omitted from the second time onward.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the MFP 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the MFP 1 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, an operation unit 13, an image reading unit 14, a printing unit 15, and a communication interface 16, which are a bus 17 for exchanging signals. Are connected to each other.

  The control unit 11 includes a CPU, and controls the above-described units and performs various arithmetic processes according to a program.

  The storage unit 12 includes a ROM that stores various programs and various data, a RAM that temporarily stores programs and data as a work area, various programs including an operating system (OS), a hard disk that stores various data, and the like.

  The storage unit 32 of the MFP 1 includes a billing table that manages billing for each company or department that uses the MFP 1. The MFP 1 has a counter that counts the number of printed output for each mode such as monochrome / color, and billing is managed based on the count value of the number of printed output in the billing table.

  The operation unit 13 includes a touch panel, various fixed keys outside the touch panel, a display lamp, and the like, and is used for performing various inputs and displays.

  The image reading unit 14 applies light from a light source such as a fluorescent lamp to a document set at a predetermined reading position on the document table or a document conveyed to a predetermined reading position by an ADF (Auto Document Feeder automatic document conveying device), The reflected light is photoelectrically converted by a CCD image sensor or the like to obtain an electrical signal, and a scanning operation for generating image data (bitmap data) from the electrical signal is executed.

  The printing unit 15 prints and discharges the image data on a sheet of paper through the steps of charging, exposure, development, transfer, and fixing by electrophotography. However, the printing method of the printing unit 15 in the present invention is not limited to this, and other than the electrophotographic method, an impact method, a thermal transfer method, an ink jet method, or the like may be used.

  The communication interface 16 is an interface for performing communication with an external device on the network 4, such as a network interface based on a standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark), token ring, or FDDI, a serial interface such as USB or IEEE1394, A parallel interface such as SCSI and IEEE1284, various local connection interfaces such as a wireless communication interface such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), IEEE802.11, HomeRF, and IrDA, a telephone line interface for connecting to a telephone line, and the like are used.

  With the above-described configuration, the MFP 1 scans a document image and performs a function as a scanner that transmits image data to an external device. The MFP 1 displays an image based on image data obtained by performing RIP processing on print data received from the outside. A print mode that functions as a printer that prints out, a copy mode that functions as a copier that prints and outputs an image based on image data obtained by reading an original image, and image data obtained by reading an original image Are provided with a plurality of operation modes such as a FAX mode that exhibits a function as a facsimile that transmits and receives a message via a telephone line.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the PC 2 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the PC 2 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a display unit 23, an input unit 24, and a communication interface 25, which are mutually connected via a bus 26 for exchanging signals. It is connected.

  In the storage unit 22 of the PC 2, application software for creating a document file and print data obtained by converting the document file into PDL data described in a page description language (PDL) that can be interpreted by the MFP 1 And a printer driver for generating the file.

  The display unit 23 is a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, or the like, and displays various types of information to the user.

  The input unit 24 includes a keyboard, a mouse, and the like, and acquires various inputs from the user.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the questionnaire server 3 according to the present embodiment. The questionnaire server 3 is a computer that manages questionnaires such as distribution of questionnaire information, that is, distribution of questionnaire information, and collection of questionnaire results based on responses by users. As shown in FIG. 4, the questionnaire server 3 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a display unit 33, an input unit 34, and a communication interface 35, which are connected via a bus 36 for exchanging signals. Are connected to each other.

  In the storage unit 32 of the questionnaire server 3, questionnaire information to be provided to the user is stored for each piece of information related to application software, that is, application information. In the present embodiment, the questionnaire information is managed and stored in the storage unit 32 for each application software that issues a print request in the PC 2, that is, application software that activates the printer driver.

  The storage unit 32 includes a billing table for managing billing for each application software provider (providing company). In the accounting table, accounting is managed for each application software provider based on, for example, the count value of the number of printed output sheets. That is, billing assignment management is performed using a billing table.

  The storage unit 32 stores a questionnaire result based on a user's answer to the questionnaire for each corresponding application information.

  Next, an outline of the operation of the image forming system of this embodiment will be described with reference to the sequence chart of FIG.

  This embodiment shows a case where there is a print instruction from a printer driver in the PC 2 and the questionnaire server 3 performs billing management for the application software provider.

  As shown in FIG. 5, when receiving a print request (S1), the PC 2 acquires information about application software that has issued the print request, that is, application information (S2), and transmits it to the questionnaire server 3 (S3). The questionnaire server 3 extracts information related to the questionnaire corresponding to the received application information, that is, questionnaire information from the storage unit 32 (S4), and transmits it to the PC 2 (S5).

  Next, when the PC 2 presents a questionnaire based on the received questionnaire information to the user and accepts an input of an answer to the questionnaire by the user (S6), the PC 2 transmits the questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to the questionnaire server 3 (S7). ).

  The questionnaire server 3 stores the received questionnaire result (S8). In addition, the questionnaire server 3 performs allocation management to the provider of application software for charging for printing (S9).

  Then, the PC 2 creates a print job (S10) and transmits it to the MFP 1 (S11). The MFP 1 performs printing based on the received print job (S12). When the questionnaire is answered by the user, the MFP 1 does not charge the user for printing.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the PC 2. Note that the algorithm shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6 is stored as a program in the storage unit 22 of the PC 2, and is executed by the control unit 21 (the same applies to the flowcharts of FIGS. 10, 21, and 23).

  First, based on a user operation, a print request is received from a document creation application, and a printer driver is called and activated (S101).

  Subsequently, the PC 2 identifies the application software that has issued the print request, and acquires application information that is information related to the application software (S102). The application information here indicates what the application software of the document to be printed is (for example, Microsoft Word (registered trademark)).

  Subsequently, the PC 2 transmits the acquired application information to the questionnaire server 3 (S103).

  Subsequently, the PC 2 receives from the questionnaire server 3 questionnaire information that is information relating to the questionnaire corresponding to the application information transmitted to the questionnaire server 3 (S104).

  In step S105, it is determined whether or not a questionnaire exists in the received questionnaire information. Here, the questionnaire information includes information including specific contents of the questionnaire and empty information with no contents. If no questionnaire exists in the received questionnaire information, that is, if the questionnaire information is empty (S105: NO), the process proceeds to step S109.

  When it is determined that a questionnaire exists in the questionnaire information received in step S105 (S105: YES), a message screen (not shown) for accepting a user instruction whether or not to answer the questionnaire is displayed. It is determined whether an instruction to answer the questionnaire displayed on the unit 23 has been received (S106). This message screen includes a display indicating that the user is not charged for printing when answering the questionnaire. If there is an instruction not to answer the questionnaire (S106: NO), the process proceeds to step S109.

  When there is an instruction to answer the questionnaire (S106: YES), the PC 2 displays a questionnaire based on the received questionnaire information on the display unit 23, and accepts an input of a reply to the questionnaire by the user (S107).

  Subsequently, the PC 2 transmits a questionnaire result based on the accepted answer and billing information which is information related to the billing for printing to the questionnaire server 3 (S108). Here, the charging information is information for charging the application software provider. The billing information includes information on a cost (printing fee) that occurs when printing is performed by the MFP 1. When the print job is printed out, the print fee varies depending on the content of the print job, so that charging information corresponding to the print job is transmitted to the questionnaire server 3. In this embodiment, the entire amount of the printing fee is charged to the application software provider.

  In step S109, the PC 2 creates a print job. Here, when a questionnaire is answered, information indicating that the questionnaire has been answered is added to the print job. Subsequently, the PC 2 transmits the created print job to the MFP 1 (S110). The information indicating that the questionnaire has been answered is for preventing the MFP 1 from charging the user for printing.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the questionnaire server 3. Note that the algorithm shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7 is stored as a program in the storage unit 32 of the questionnaire server 3, and is executed by the control unit 31 (the same applies to the flowcharts of FIGS. 11, 17, 23, and 24).

  First, the questionnaire server 3 determines whether application information is received from the PC 2 (S201). When it is determined that application information has not been received (S201: NO), the process proceeds to step S206.

  When it is determined that application information has been received (S201: YES), the questionnaire server 3 determines whether or not questionnaire information corresponding to the received application information exists in the storage unit 32 (S202). When there is no corresponding questionnaire information (S202: NO), empty information indicating that there is no questionnaire is set as the questionnaire information (S204).

  When the corresponding questionnaire information exists (S202: YES), the questionnaire information is extracted from the storage unit 32 (S203).

  In step S205, the questionnaire server 3 transmits the questionnaire information extracted in step S203 or the questionnaire information set in step S204 to the PC 2.

  In step S <b> 206, the questionnaire server 3 determines whether or not the questionnaire result based on the input of the answer by the user and the charging information that is information related to charging for printing have been received from the PC 2.

  If it is determined that the questionnaire result and the billing information have not been received (S206: NO), the processing in FIG. 7 ends. Note that the process of FIG. 7 is repeatedly executed.

  When it is determined that the questionnaire result and billing information have been received (S206: YES), the questionnaire server 3 stores the received questionnaire result in the storage unit 32 for each corresponding application information (S207).

  Subsequently, the questionnaire server 3 performs allocation management to the application software provider for charging for printing based on the received charging information (S208). Here, the questionnaire server 3 totals the billing information for each application information in the billing table. Then, the application software provider is charged for the printing cost (printing fee).

  Further, the questionnaire server 3 collects questionnaire results for each application information, and provides the collected questionnaire results to the application software provider.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the MFP 1. The algorithm shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8 is stored as a program in the storage unit 12 of the MFP 1 and executed by the control unit 31 (the same applies to the flowcharts of FIGS. 12, 16, 19, and 26).

  When the MFP 1 receives the print data from the PC 2 (S301), the MFP 1 executes printing based on the received print data (S302).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether information indicating that the questionnaire has been answered is added to the received print job (S303).

  When information indicating that the questionnaire has been answered is added to the print job (S303: YES), the processing in FIG. 8 ends. In this case, the user is not charged for printing.

  On the other hand, when the information indicating that the questionnaire has been answered is not added to the print job (S303: NO), the user, that is, the charging process for the user or the department using MFP1 is performed in the charging table as usual (S304). .

  As described above, in the present embodiment, when the PC 2 receives the print request, the PC 2 notifies the questionnaire server 3 of application information that is information related to the application software that has received the print request on the PC 2, and the questionnaire server 3 converts the application information into the application information. When the corresponding questionnaire information is received, and the PC 2 presents the questionnaire based on the received questionnaire information to the user and accepts the input of the answer by the user, the PC 2 transmits the questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to the questionnaire server 3. To do.

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to carry out a questionnaire for a specific user at the time of printing. That is, a questionnaire from a user who is actually using application software can be acquired, and a highly accurate questionnaire can be implemented. In addition, it is possible to provide a questionnaire from an actual user to a company that provides specific application software.

  In the present embodiment, the application information is transmitted to the questionnaire server 3 regardless of whether the questionnaire information is prepared in the questionnaire server 3 or not. Therefore, application information is collected in the questionnaire server 3 even when questionnaire information is not prepared, so that it is possible to collect information on application software usage frequency and printer driver usage frequency.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when an input of a response to the questionnaire by the user is accepted in response to the print request, processing related to a reduction in the print fee is performed. Therefore, the user can reduce part or all of the printing fee by answering the questionnaire. Thereby, a user's willingness to answer a questionnaire can be raised.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. A description of points in common with the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and the description below will focus on points that are different from the first embodiment.

  FIG. 9 is a sequence chart for explaining an outline of the operation of the image forming system according to the second embodiment.

  The second embodiment shows a case where there is a print instruction from a printer driver in the PC 2 and billing management is performed on the application software provider in the MFP 1.

  Since steps S21 to S28 are the same as steps S1 to S8, description thereof is omitted.

  In step S29, the PC 2 creates a print job (S29), and then transmits it to the MFP 1 (S30). The MFP 1 performs printing based on the received print job (S31). Further, when the questionnaire is answered by the user, the MFP 1 does not charge the user for printing, but manages assignment of the application software for charging for printing to the provider (S32).

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the PC 2 according to the second embodiment.

  Steps S401 to S407 are the same as steps S101 to S107, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S <b> 408, the PC 2 transmits a questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to the questionnaire server 3 without accompanying charging information, which is information regarding charging for printing.

  In step S409, the PC 2 creates a print job. Here, when there is a questionnaire response by the user, questionnaire response information including application information or application software provider information is added to the print job. Subsequently, the PC 2 transmits the created print job to the MFP 1 (S410).

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the questionnaire server 3 according to the second embodiment.

  Steps S501 to S504 are the same as steps S201 to S204, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S505, the questionnaire server 3 transmits the questionnaire information extracted in step S503 or the questionnaire information set in step S504 to the PC 2. The questionnaire information to be transmitted includes application information or application software provider information required when the PC 2 (printer driver) passes the questionnaire response information to the MFP 1.

  In step S506, the questionnaire server 3 determines whether or not the questionnaire result based on the input of the answer by the user has been received from the PC 2.

  When it is determined that the questionnaire result has not been received (S506: NO), the process of FIG. 11 ends. Note that the process of FIG. 11 is repeatedly executed.

  When it is determined that the questionnaire result has been received (S506: YES), the questionnaire server 3 stores the received questionnaire result in the storage unit 32 for each corresponding application information (S507).

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the MFP 1 according to the second embodiment.

  When the MFP 1 receives the print data from the PC 2 (S601), the MFP 1 executes printing based on the received print data (S602).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not questionnaire response information is added to the received print job (S603).

  When the questionnaire response information is added to the print job (S603: YES), the MFP 1 performs allocation management to the provider of the charging application software for printing based on the questionnaire response information (S605). Here, the MFP 1 performs charge management for each application information or application software provider in the charge table.

  On the other hand, when the questionnaire response information is not added to the print job (S603: NO), as usual, the user, that is, the charging process for the user or the department using MFP1 is performed in the charging table (S604).

  In the second embodiment, the storage unit 32 of the questionnaire server 3 is not provided with a charging table for managing charging for each provider of application software. On the other hand, the storage unit 32 of the MFP 1 is provided with a billing table for managing billing for each company or department using the MFP 1 and each provider of application software.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the billing table 100 in the storage unit 32 of the MFP 1. In the charging table 100, charging is managed based on the count value of the number of printed output sheets. In FIG. 13, the numerical value indicates the count value of the number of printed output sheets, and “Company A” and “Company B” indicate examples of application software providers. Then, the application software provider is charged for the printing cost (printing fee).

  As described above, the second embodiment in which the charge management for the application software provider is performed in the MFP 1 can also provide the same operational effects as the first embodiment.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. A description of points in common with the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and the description below will focus on points that are different from the first embodiment.

  FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an image forming system according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14, the image forming system includes an MFP 1 as an image forming apparatus and a questionnaire server 3, which are connected to each other via a network 4 so as to communicate with each other.

  FIG. 15 is a sequence chart for explaining the outline of the operation of the image forming system according to the third embodiment.

  This embodiment shows a case where there is a print instruction from the operation unit 13 of the MFP 1 and billing management is performed on the application software provider in the questionnaire server 3.

  As illustrated in FIG. 15, when the MFP 1 receives a print request on the operation unit 13 (S 41), the MFP 1 acquires information about application software that has issued the print request, that is, application information (S 42), and transmits the information to the questionnaire server 3. (S43). The questionnaire server 3 extracts information related to the questionnaire corresponding to the received application information, that is, questionnaire information from the storage unit 32 (S44), and transmits it to the MFP 1 (S45).

  Next, when the MFP 1 presents the questionnaire based on the received questionnaire information to the user and accepts an input of the answer to the questionnaire by the user (S46), the MFP 1 transmits the questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to the questionnaire server 3 (S47). ).

  The questionnaire server 3 stores the received questionnaire result (S48). In addition, the questionnaire server 3 performs assignment management to the provider of application software for charging for printing (S49).

  Then, the MFP 1 performs printing (S50). When the questionnaire is answered by the user, the MFP 1 does not charge the user for printing.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the MFP 1 according to the third embodiment.

  First, based on a user operation, a print request is received on the operation unit 13 (S701). Subsequently, the MFP 1 identifies the application software that has received the print request, and acquires application information that is information related to the application software (S702).

  Subsequently, the MFP 1 transmits the acquired application information to the questionnaire server 3 (S703).

  Subsequently, the MFP 1 receives, from the questionnaire server 3, questionnaire information that is information regarding the questionnaire corresponding to the application information transmitted to the questionnaire server 3 (S 704).

  In step S705, it is determined whether or not a questionnaire exists in the received questionnaire information. If no questionnaire exists in the received questionnaire information, that is, if the questionnaire information is empty (S705: NO), the process proceeds to step S709.

  When it is determined that a questionnaire exists in the questionnaire information received in step S705 (S705: YES), a message screen (not shown) for accepting a user instruction whether or not to answer the questionnaire is operated. It is determined whether an instruction to answer the questionnaire displayed on the unit 13 has been received (S706). This message screen includes a display indicating that the user is not charged for printing when answering the questionnaire. If there is an instruction not to answer the questionnaire (S706: NO), the process proceeds to step S709.

  When there is an instruction to answer the questionnaire (S706: YES), the MFP 1 displays a questionnaire based on the received questionnaire information on the operation unit 13 and accepts an input of a reply to the questionnaire by the user (S707).

  Subsequently, the MFP 1 transmits the questionnaire result based on the accepted answer and the billing information that is information related to the billing for printing to the questionnaire server 3 (S708).

  In step S709, the MFP 1 performs printing. Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the user has answered the questionnaire (S710).

  If there is an answer to the questionnaire by the user (S710: YES), the process of FIG. 16 ends. In this case, the user is not charged for printing.

  On the other hand, when there is no answer to the questionnaire by the user (S710: NO), as usual, charging processing is performed for the user, that is, the user company or the user department of the MFP 1 in the charging table (S711).

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the questionnaire server 3 according to the third embodiment.

  First, the questionnaire server 3 determines whether application information is received from the MFP 1 (S801). If it is determined that application information has not been received (S801: NO), the process proceeds to step S806.

  When it is determined that application information has been received (S801: YES), the questionnaire server 3 determines whether questionnaire information corresponding to the received application information exists in the storage unit 32 (S802). When there is no corresponding questionnaire information (S802: NO), empty information indicating that there is no questionnaire is set as questionnaire information (S804).

  When the corresponding questionnaire information exists (S802: YES), the questionnaire information is extracted from the storage unit 32 (S803).

  In step S805, the questionnaire server 3 transmits the questionnaire information extracted in step S803 or the questionnaire information set in step S804 to the MFP 1.

  In step S <b> 806, the questionnaire server 3 determines whether or not the questionnaire result based on the input of the answer by the user and the charging information that is information relating to the charging for printing have been received from the MFP 1.

  If it is determined that the questionnaire result and the billing information have not been received (S806: NO), the processing in FIG. 17 ends. Note that the processing of FIG. 17 is repeatedly executed.

  When it is determined that the questionnaire result and the billing information have been received (S806: YES), the questionnaire server 3 stores the received questionnaire result in the storage unit 32 for each corresponding application information (S807).

  Subsequently, the questionnaire server 3 performs assignment management to the provider of the application software for charging for printing based on the received charging information (S808). Here, the questionnaire server 3 totals the billing information for each application information in the billing table. Then, the application software provider is charged for the printing cost (printing fee).

  Further, the questionnaire server 3 collects questionnaire results for each application information, and provides the collected questionnaire results to the application software provider.

  As described above, the third embodiment in which a print request is received on the operation unit 13 of the MFP 1 can also provide the same operational effects as the first embodiment.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. A description of points in common with the third embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and the following description will be focused on points that are different from the third embodiment.

  FIG. 18 is a sequence chart for explaining the outline of the operation of the image forming system of the fourth embodiment.

  The fourth embodiment shows a case where there is a print instruction from the operation unit 13 of the MFP 1 and billing management is performed on the application software provider in the MFP 1.

  Since steps S61 to S68 are the same as steps S41 to S48, the description thereof is omitted.

  In step S69, the MFP 1 performs printing. Further, when the questionnaire is answered by the user, the MFP 1 does not charge the user for printing, but manages assignment of the application software for charging for printing to the provider (S70).

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the MFP 1 according to the fourth embodiment.

  Steps S901 to S907 are the same as steps S701 to S707, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S <b> 908, the MFP 1 transmits a questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to the questionnaire server 3 without accompanying charging information, which is information regarding charging for printing.

  In step S909, the MFP 1 performs printing. Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the user has answered the questionnaire (S910).

  When the questionnaire is answered by the user (S910: YES), the MFP 1 performs assignment management to the provider of application software for charging for printing (S912). Here, the MFP 1 performs charge management for each application information or application software provider in the charge table.

  On the other hand, if there is no answer to the questionnaire by the user (S910: NO), as usual, charging processing is performed for the user, that is, the company or department that uses the MFP 1 in the charging table (S911).

  In the fourth embodiment, the storage unit 32 of the questionnaire server 3 is not provided with a charging table for managing charging for each provider of application software. On the other hand, the storage unit 32 of the MFP 1 is provided with a billing table for managing billing for each company or department using the MFP 1 and each provider of application software (see FIG. 13). Then, the application software provider is charged for the printing cost (printing fee).

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the questionnaire server 3 according to the fourth embodiment.

  Since steps S1001 to S1004 are the same as steps S801 to S804, description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S1005, the questionnaire server 3 transmits the questionnaire information extracted in step S1003 or the questionnaire information set in step S1004 to the MFP 1. The questionnaire information to be transmitted includes application information or information of the application software provider.

  In step S <b> 1006, the questionnaire server 3 determines whether or not a questionnaire result based on an answer input by the user has been received from the MFP 1.

  When it is determined that the questionnaire result has not been received (S1006: NO), the process of FIG. 20 ends. Note that the processing of FIG. 20 is repeatedly executed.

  When it is determined that the questionnaire result has been received (S1006: YES), the questionnaire server 3 stores the received questionnaire result in the storage unit 32 for each corresponding application information (S1007).

  As described above, the fourth embodiment in which the charge management for the application software provider is performed in the MFP 1 can also provide the same operational effects as the third embodiment.

(Fifth embodiment)
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. A description of points in common with the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and the description below will focus on points that are different from the first embodiment.

  The fifth embodiment shows a case where there is a print instruction from the printer driver in the PC 2 and billing management is performed on the application software provider in the questionnaire server 3.

  In the fifth embodiment, when an input of an answer by a user to a questionnaire is accepted, a process related to points given to each user who can guarantee a reduction in printing fee for printing to be executed later is performed. obtain. The points are stored in the storage unit 32 of the questionnaire server 3.

  FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the PC 2 according to the fifth embodiment.

  First, based on a user operation, a print request is received from a document creation application, and a printer driver is called and activated (S1101).

  Subsequently, the PC 2 identifies the application software that has issued the print request, and acquires application information that is information relating to the application software (S1102). The application information here indicates what is the application software of the document to be printed. In addition, the PC 2 acquires a user ID that is user identification information input when the user logs in to the PC 2.

  Subsequently, the PC 2 transmits the acquired application information and user ID to the questionnaire server 3 (S1103).

  Subsequently, the PC 2 receives from the questionnaire server 3 unused point information, which is information regarding unused points corresponding to the application information and user ID transmitted to the questionnaire server 3 (S1104).

  In step S1105, it is determined whether or not there is an unused point in the received unused point information. Here, the unused point information includes information including specific values of unused points and empty information having no values. When there is no unused point in the received unused point information, that is, when the unused point information is empty (S1105: NO), the process proceeds to step S1110.

  If it is determined in step S1105 that there are unused points in the received unused point information (S1105: YES), a message screen for accepting a user instruction whether to use the unused points ( (Not shown) is displayed on the display unit 23, and it is determined whether or not an instruction to use an unused point has been received (S1106). If there is an instruction not to use an unused point (S1106: NO), the process proceeds to step S1110.

  If there is an instruction to use an unused point (S1106: YES), the PC 2 transmits information indicating that the point is used to the questionnaire server 3 as point information (S1107).

  In step S1110, questionnaire acquisition and response processing are performed. Details of the questionnaire acquisition and response processing will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the PC 2 transmits a request for questionnaire information, which is information related to the questionnaire corresponding to the application information transmitted to the questionnaire server 3 in step S1102, to the questionnaire server 3 (S1201).

  Subsequently, the PC 2 receives the requested questionnaire information from the questionnaire server 3 (S1202).

  In step S1203, it is determined whether or not a questionnaire exists in the received questionnaire information. Here, the questionnaire information includes information including specific contents of the questionnaire and empty information with no contents. If no questionnaire exists in the received questionnaire information, that is, if the questionnaire information is empty (S1203: NO), the process proceeds to step S1108 in FIG.

  When it is determined that the questionnaire exists in the questionnaire information received in step S1203 (S1203: YES), a message screen (not shown) for accepting the user's instruction whether to answer the questionnaire is displayed. It is determined whether an instruction to answer the questionnaire displayed on the unit 23 has been received (S1204). This message screen includes a display indicating that if a questionnaire is answered, exemption from charging or accumulation of points is provided. If there is an instruction not to answer the questionnaire (S1204: NO), the process proceeds to step S1108 in FIG.

  When there is an instruction to answer the questionnaire (S1204: YES), the PC 2 displays a questionnaire based on the received questionnaire information on the display unit 23, and accepts an input of a reply to the questionnaire by the user (S1205).

  Subsequently, the PC 2 transmits a questionnaire result based on the accepted answer and billing information which is information related to the billing for printing to the questionnaire server 3 (S1206). Here, the charging information is information for charging the application software provider. The billing information includes information on a cost (printing fee) that occurs when printing is performed by the MFP 1. When the print job is printed out, the print fee varies depending on the content of the print job, so that charging information corresponding to the print job is transmitted to the questionnaire server 3. In this embodiment, the entire amount of the printing fee is charged to the application software provider.

  In step S1207, a message screen (not shown) for accepting a user instruction as to whether or not to accumulate points in response to a questionnaire is displayed on the display unit 23, and an instruction to accumulate points is displayed. It is determined whether or not it has been accepted. That is, it is determined whether or not there is an instruction for wishing to accumulate points out of exemption from charging for current printing and accumulation of points.

  If there is an instruction not to accumulate points (S1207: NO), the process proceeds to step S1108 in FIG. On the other hand, when there is an instruction to accumulate points (S1207: YES), the PC 2 transmits information indicating that points are accumulated to the questionnaire server 3 as point information (S1208), and the process proceeds to step S1108 in FIG. move on.

  In step S1108 of FIG. 21, the PC 2 creates a print job. Here, when the user uses unused points (S1106: YES), or when the user answers a questionnaire and desires exemption from charging for the current printing (S1207: NO), the user is requested to print a job. Information not charging is added. Subsequently, the PC 2 transmits the created print job to the MFP 1 (S1109).

  Next, with reference to FIG. 23, point processing in the PC 2 of the fifth embodiment will be described. This point processing is processing when the user accumulates points by answering a questionnaire in advance when not printing.

  First, when the user presses a predetermined button on the screen displayed by the printer driver, a questionnaire presentation request is accepted (S1301).

  Subsequently, the PC 2 transmits a request for questionnaire information corresponding to the application that has activated the printer driver to the questionnaire server 3 (S1302).

  Even if a configuration is adopted in which a Web screen is displayed from the URL (Uniform Resource Locators) of the questionnaire server 3 and the user selects which application software of which company is to be answered on the Web screen. Good.

  Subsequently, the PC 2 receives the requested questionnaire information from the questionnaire server 3 (S1303).

  In step S1304, it is determined whether or not a questionnaire exists in the received questionnaire information. If there is no questionnaire in the received questionnaire information, that is, empty questionnaire information (S1304: NO), the processing in FIG. 23 ends.

  If it is determined that the questionnaire exists in the questionnaire information received in step S1304 (S1304: YES), a message screen (not shown) for accepting the user's instruction as to whether to answer the questionnaire is displayed. It is determined whether an instruction to answer the questionnaire displayed on the unit 23 has been received (S1305). This message screen includes a display indicating that accumulation of points is provided when a questionnaire is answered. If there is an instruction not to answer the questionnaire (S1305: NO), the processing in FIG. 23 ends.

  When there is an instruction to answer the questionnaire (S1305: YES), the PC 2 displays a questionnaire based on the received questionnaire information on the display unit 23, and accepts an input of a reply to the questionnaire by the user (S1306).

  Subsequently, the PC 2 transmits to the questionnaire server 3 the questionnaire result based on the accepted answer and the billing information that is information related to the billing for printing (S1307).

  In step S1308, the PC 2 transmits information indicating that the points are accumulated to the questionnaire server 3 as point information.

  FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 are flowcharts illustrating a processing procedure in the questionnaire server 3 according to the fifth embodiment.

  First, the questionnaire server 3 determines whether application information and a user ID are received from the PC 2 (S1401). If it is determined that the application information and the user ID have not been received (S1401: NO), the process proceeds to step S1406.

  When it is determined that the application information and the user ID are received (S1401: YES), the questionnaire server 3 determines whether or not unused point information corresponding to the received application information and the user ID exists in the storage unit 32. Judgment is made (S1402).

  When there is no corresponding unused point information (S1402: NO), empty information indicating that there is no unused point is set as unused point information (S1404).

  When corresponding unused point information exists (S1402: YES), the unused point information is extracted from the storage unit 32 (S1403).

  In step S1405, the questionnaire server 3 transmits the unused point information extracted in step S1403 or the unused point information set in step S1404 to the PC 2.

  In step S1406, the questionnaire server 3 determines whether a request for questionnaire information has been received from the PC 2 (S1406). If it is determined that a request for questionnaire information has not been received (S1406: NO), the process proceeds to step S1411.

  When it is determined that a request for questionnaire information has been received (S1406: YES), the questionnaire server 3 determines whether the requested questionnaire information exists in the storage unit 32 (S1407). When the requested questionnaire information does not exist (S1407: NO), empty information indicating that there is no questionnaire is set as questionnaire information (S1409).

  When the requested questionnaire information exists (S1407: YES), the questionnaire information is extracted from the storage unit 32 (S1408).

  In step S1410, the questionnaire server 3 transmits the questionnaire information extracted in step S1408 or the questionnaire information set in step S1409 to the PC 2.

  In step S1411, the questionnaire server 3 determines whether or not the questionnaire result based on the input of the answer by the user and the charging information that is information related to the printing are received from the PC 2.

  If it is determined that the questionnaire result and the billing information have not been received (S1411: NO), the process proceeds to step S1414.

  When it is determined that the questionnaire result and the billing information are received (S1411: YES), the questionnaire server 3 stores the received questionnaire result in the storage unit 32 for each corresponding application information (S1412).

  Subsequently, the questionnaire server 3 performs assignment management to the provider of application software for charging for printing based on the received charging information (S1413). Here, the questionnaire server 3 totals the billing information for each application information in the billing table. Then, the application software provider is charged for the printing cost (printing fee).

  Further, the questionnaire server 3 collects questionnaire results for each application information, and provides the collected questionnaire results to the application software provider.

  In step S1414, the questionnaire server 3 determines whether or not point information has been received from the PC 2.

  When it is determined that the point information has not been received (S1414: NO), the processing in FIGS. 24 and 25 ends. Note that the processes in FIGS. 24 and 25 are repeatedly executed.

  When it is determined that the point information has been received (S1414: YES), the questionnaire server 3 updates the points stored in the storage unit 32 for each application information and user ID (S1415). That is, the questionnaire server 3 reduces the points when the received point information is information indicating that the points are used, and selects the points when the received point information is information indicating that the points are accumulated. to add.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the MFP 1 according to the fifth embodiment.

  Upon receiving the print data from the PC 2 (S1501), the MFP 1 executes printing based on the received print data (S1502).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether information indicating that the user is not charged is added to the received print job (S1503).

  If information indicating that the user is not charged is added to the print job (S1503: YES), the processing in FIG. 26 ends. In this case, the user is not charged for printing.

  On the other hand, when information indicating that the user is not charged is not added to the print job (S1503: NO), the charging process is performed on the user, that is, the user company or the department using MFP1 in the charging table as usual (S1504). .

  As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, in addition to being able to achieve the same operational effects as those of the first embodiment, the user can guarantee a reduction in the printing fee for printing to be performed later. Points can be accumulated in advance or printing using the points can be executed, which increases convenience. Thereby, a user's willingness to answer a questionnaire can further be heightened.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the entire amount of the printing fee for the job to be printed is charged to the application software provider. However, a configuration in which a part of the printing fee is charged to the application software provider may be adopted. In this case, a reduction for the questionnaire is defined in the questionnaire information, and the amount of the reduction is charged to the application software provider. Then, the amount charged to the application software provider is reduced from the user's printing fee.

  In the above embodiment, the application software that operates in cooperation with the printer driver has been described as the software that operates on the PC 2 or the MFP 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention can also be applied to software such as an OS and middleware that operate in cooperation with a printer driver and provide a function used by the printer driver. The present invention can also be applied to software that operates on the PC 2 or MFP 1 without cooperating with a printer driver.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the software is installed in the PC 2 or the MFP 1 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention can also be applied to software that is called from an application server and used on the client side.

  The questionnaire information may be prepared by the application software provider (providing company), the printer driver provider (providing company), or the MFP manufacturer. Further, part or all of the printing fee may be charged to the printer driver provider or the MFP manufacturer.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the charge management is performed in the questionnaire server 3 or the MFP 1 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention can also be applied to a case where a separate charge management server performs charge management. In this case, information related to charging is transmitted to the charging management server.

  In the fifth embodiment, a case has been described in which there is a print instruction from the printer driver in the PC 2 and billing management is performed on the application software provider in the questionnaire server 3 (similar to the first embodiment). However, the present invention is not limited to this. In the fifth embodiment, when there is a print instruction from the printer driver in the PC 2 and charge management for the application software provider is performed in the MFP 1 (second embodiment), the operation unit 13 of the MFP 1 When there is a print instruction and billing management is performed for the application software provider in the questionnaire server 3 (third embodiment), or there is a print instruction from the operation unit 13 of the MFP 1, and the application software provider in the MFP 1 The present invention can also be applied to an embodiment configured by combining with the case where charge management is performed for (the fourth embodiment).

  In the above embodiment, the MFP is used as the image forming apparatus. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other image forming apparatuses such as a printer and a copier are used instead of the MFP. May be.

  Further, the type and number of devices connected to the network 4 are not limited to the example shown in FIG. For example, a plurality of image forming apparatuses such as MFPs, printers, and copiers may be connected to the network 4, and a plurality of PCs may be connected.

  In the above embodiment, the reduction of the printing fee is set for each user. However, the reduction can be set for each user group including a plurality of users based on the user ID.

  In the above embodiment, the questionnaire server 3 and the MFP 1 are provided separately and independently, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the function of the questionnaire server 3 may be included in an image forming apparatus such as the MFP 1.

  In addition, when a print request for a Web page displayed based on a URL is received, the present invention notifies information related to the URL to a questionnaire distribution server that distributes questionnaire information. From the questionnaire distribution server, the URL Information about the questionnaire corresponding to the information about the received questionnaire, presenting the questionnaire based on the information on the received questionnaire to the user, accepting the input of the answer to the presented questionnaire by the user, and obtaining the questionnaire result based on the accepted answer The present invention can also be applied to a device or a program (printer driver) for executing a questionnaire process of sending a questionnaire result to a questionnaire collection server that collects questionnaire results. In this case, information about the URL can be acquired from a web browser that displays a web page.

  The means and method for performing various processes in the image forming system of the present embodiment can be realized by either a dedicated hardware circuit or a programmed computer. The program may be provided by a computer-readable recording medium such as a flexible disk or a CD-ROM, or may be provided online via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the program recorded on the computer-readable recording medium is usually transferred to and stored in a storage unit such as a hard disk. The program may be provided as a single application software, or may be incorporated in the software of the apparatus as a function of the apparatus in the image forming system.

1 MFP,
2 PC,
3 questionnaire server,
4 network,
11, 21, 31 control unit,
12, 22, 32 storage unit,
13 Operation part,
14 image reading unit,
15 printing department,
16, 25, 35 communication interface,
17, 26, 36 buses,
23, 33 display,
24, 34 input section,
100 Billing table.

Claims (23)

A printer driver that operates on a computer and transmits a print job to an image forming apparatus,
When a print request is accepted, a procedure (a) for notifying a questionnaire distribution server that distributes questionnaire information of information related to software operating on the computer;
A procedure (b) of receiving information related to a questionnaire corresponding to information related to the software from the questionnaire distribution server;
A step (c) of presenting a questionnaire to the user based on information about the received questionnaire;
A procedure (d) for accepting an input of an answer by the user to the presented questionnaire;
A procedure (e) for transmitting a questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to a questionnaire collection server for collecting the questionnaire result;
A printer driver that causes the computer to execute a questionnaire process including:   The printer driver according to claim 1, wherein the printer driver operates in cooperation with the software.   The printer driver according to claim 1, wherein the software is installed in the computer. The questionnaire process
The method (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a step (f) of performing a process relating to a reduction in a printing fee when an input of an answer to the questionnaire is received in response to the print request. The printer driver described in the section. The questionnaire process
A procedure (g) for notifying the questionnaire distribution server of information related to software running on the computer when a questionnaire presentation request is received;
When an input of an answer to the questionnaire is accepted in response to the questionnaire presentation request, a process related to points given to each user who can guarantee a reduction in printing fee for printing executed later is performed. Step (h)
The printer driver according to claim 1, further comprising:   6. The printer driver according to claim 4, wherein the reduction of the printing fee is charged to a software provider corresponding to the answered questionnaire.   The printer driver according to claim 1, wherein the software is application software that activates the printer driver.   The printer driver according to claim 1, wherein the software is an OS that provides a function used by the printer driver.   The printer driver according to claim 1, wherein the questionnaire distribution server and the questionnaire collection server are configured by a single questionnaire server having both functions.   A computer-readable recording medium on which the printer driver according to claim 1 is recorded. An image forming apparatus that performs printing,
A notification means for notifying a questionnaire distribution server that distributes questionnaire information about software that operates on the image forming apparatus when a print request is received;
Receiving means for receiving information on the questionnaire corresponding to the information on the software from the questionnaire distribution server;
A presentation means for presenting a questionnaire based on information about the received questionnaire to the user;
An accepting means for accepting an input of an answer by the user to the presented questionnaire;
A transmission means for transmitting a questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to a questionnaire collection server for collecting the questionnaire result;
An image forming apparatus comprising:   The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a reduction processing unit configured to perform processing relating to a reduction in printing fee when an input of a reply to the questionnaire is received in response to the print request. A second notification means for notifying the questionnaire distribution server of information related to software operating on the image forming apparatus when a questionnaire presentation request is received;
When an input of an answer to the questionnaire is accepted in response to the questionnaire presentation request, a process related to points given to each user who can guarantee a reduction in printing fee for printing executed later is performed. Point processing means;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising:   14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the reduced printing fee is charged to a software provider corresponding to the answered questionnaire.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the software is application software in which a program for executing printing is started.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the software is an OS that provides a function used by a program for executing printing.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the questionnaire distribution server and the questionnaire collection server are configured by a single questionnaire server having both functions. Storage means for storing information related to the questionnaire to be presented to the user in association with the software;
Receiving means for receiving, from the device, information relating to software operating on the device that has received the print request;
Extraction means for extracting information about the questionnaire corresponding to information about the received software from the storage means;
Transmitting means for transmitting information about the extracted questionnaire to the device;
The questionnaire server characterized by having. Questionnaire result receiving means for receiving, from the device, a questionnaire result based on a user's response to information on the transmitted questionnaire;
Questionnaire result storage means for storing the received questionnaire results in relation to information about the corresponding software;
The questionnaire server according to claim 18, further comprising: Charging information receiving means for receiving information on charging for printing including a reduction in printing fee from the device;
Charging management means for performing allocation management of charging for printing based on the received charging information;
The questionnaire server according to claim 18 or 19, further comprising: Point information receiving means for receiving, from the device, information relating to points given to each user who can guarantee a reduction in printing fee for printing executed later;
Point information storage means for storing information relating to received points in association with user identification information for identifying a user;
Reply means for replying to the device with respect to the inquiry about the presence of points for each user from the device;
Correction means for correcting information on the points in the point information storage means in response to a notification about consumption of points for each user from the device;
21. The questionnaire server according to any one of claims 18 to 20, further comprising:   The questionnaire server according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the reduction of the printing fee is charged to a software provider corresponding to the answered questionnaire. A printer driver that operates on a computer and transmits a print job to an image forming apparatus,
A procedure (a) for notifying a questionnaire distribution server that distributes questionnaire information of information related to the URL when a print request for a Web page displayed based on the URL is received;
A procedure (b) of receiving information on a questionnaire corresponding to the information on the URL from the questionnaire distribution server;
A step (c) of presenting a questionnaire to the user based on information about the received questionnaire;
A procedure (d) for accepting an input of an answer by the user to the presented questionnaire;
A procedure (e) for transmitting a questionnaire result based on the accepted answer to a questionnaire collection server for collecting the questionnaire result;
A printer driver characterized by causing a computer to execute a questionnaire process including:

Images