JP5842709B2 - Information providing program, information providing apparatus, and information providing method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an information providing program, an information providing apparatus, and an information providing method.

  A shopping service is implemented in the Web system. In a general shopping site, a user registers a product he / she wants to purchase in a list called a shopping cart, for example, and makes a settlement when the product to be purchased is determined.

  At that time, the system that memorizes the products purchased in the past or the products browsed in the past and displays the products purchased or browsed in the past when the user tries to purchase the products is the conventional mechanism. Existed from. In addition, there is a mechanism in which the system stores products viewed by other users who have purchased the same product and displays the products as recommended products.

  As related prior art, for example, there is one that proposes other recommended products according to the products that the user puts in the cart (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2002-342501 A

  However, in the related art, there is a problem that the proposal of other recommended products related to the products put in the cart is not necessarily an appropriate product option for the user. In particular, when the target product is a food or drink, there is a problem that the proposal of other recommended products may become meaningless unless an appropriate amount required by the user is taken into consideration.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an information providing program, an information providing apparatus, and an information providing method capable of assisting a user in selecting a purchase product by Internet shopping in order to solve the above-described problems caused by the prior art. To do.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, according to one aspect of the present invention, identification information of a purchase candidate product selected as a purchase candidate and exclusion from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products And a storage unit that stores the identification information of the product and the capacity in association with each other based on the received identification information of the candidate product for purchase and the identification information of the excluded product. Then, the capacity information of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product is acquired, and based on the acquired capacity information, a required capacity obtained by excluding the excluded product from the purchase candidate product is calculated, and the calculated required capacity And information on alternative purchase candidate products such that the difference between the total capacity of the excluded products and the required capacity is within a predetermined value based on the acquired capacity information of the excluded products. Form, the information providing program for outputting information on the alternative purchase candidate items created, the information providing apparatus and information providing method is proposed.

  Further, according to one aspect of the present invention, the identification information of the purchase candidate product selected as the purchase candidate and the identification information of the excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products are received. Based on the received identification information of the purchase candidate product and the identification information of the excluded product, the storage unit stores the product identification information and the capacity in association with each other, and stores the purchase candidate product and the excluded product. The required capacity obtained by excluding the excluded product from the purchase candidate product based on the acquired capacity information, the calculated required capacity, and the acquired purchase candidate product and the Based on the capacity information of the excluded product, the replacement candidate product for which the difference between the total capacity of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product and the required capacity is within a predetermined value It generates information, the information providing program that outputs information on the alternative purchase candidate items created, the information providing apparatus and information providing method is proposed.

  Advantageous Effects of Invention According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to support the user's selection of purchased products by Internet shopping and increase the user's willingness to purchase.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the information providing method according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the system 200 according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a hardware configuration example of the information providing apparatus 201 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a hardware configuration example of the client terminal 202 according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the contents stored in the product master table 220 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the contents stored in the user cart DB 230 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the contents stored in the recommended cart DB 240 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of a screen example of a product list display screen according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a screen example of the shopping cart screen according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the information providing apparatus 201 according to the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information provision processing procedure of the information provision apparatus 201 according to the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart (part 1) illustrating an example of a specific processing procedure of the recommendation creation processing according to the embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart (part 2) illustrating an example of a specific processing procedure of the recommendation creation process according to the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart (part 1) illustrating an example of an information processing procedure of the client terminal 202 according to the embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart (part 2) illustrating an example of an information processing procedure of the client terminal 202 according to the embodiment.

  Exemplary embodiments of an information providing program, an information providing apparatus, and an information providing method according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Embodiment)
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the information providing method according to the embodiment. In FIG. 1, an example of ordering pizza in online shopping will be described.

  In FIG. 1, as can be seen from the product list screen 100-1, there are three types of pizzas: “salami pizza”, “tuna pizza”, and “sausage pizza”. Also, there are three types of sizes L (Large), M (Medium), and S (Small), and each size ratio is L: M: S = 300: 150: 100 (the menu volume is “100” for one person). Assumed.

  First, the “salami pizza (L)” check box is clicked on the product list screen 100-1 to select “salami pizza (L)” as a candidate (cart in) for purchase. ... (1)

  Next, as can be seen from the product list screen 100-2, the check box of “Salami Pizza (L)”, which is the candidate for the purchase target product in (1) above, is clicked again to remove the check, and the purchase target product In addition to not being a candidate (cart out), the check box of “tuna pizza (L)” is clicked to make “tuna pizza (L)” a candidate for purchase (cart in). ... (2)

  From the above (1) and (2), it is presumed that the pizza capacity required for the user is “L” size (menu volume is “300” (for 3 people)). In addition to “tuna pizza” currently carted in as a candidate product to be purchased, it is presumed that he is interested in “salami pizza” carted out.

  Therefore, as case 1, a carted out product is replaced with a carted product and proposed as a recommended plan. Therefore, “Salami Pizza (L)” carted out is proposed on the recommendation screen 110-2.

  In case 2, a recommendation plan is proposed in consideration of not only products that have been carted out but also products that are carted in. Therefore, on the recommendation screen 120-2, both “tuna pizza” carted in and “salami pizza” carted out are proposed as recommended plans. However, considering the necessary pizza capacity (menu volume “300”), both “Tuna pizza” and “Salami pizza” are both set to “M size (menu volume“ 150 ”)” so that the required capacity is obtained. Yes. In this way, by matching the required capacity with the total recommended capacity, problems such as leftovers and insufficient food can be avoided.

  Further, as can be seen from the product list screen 100-3, the check box of “Tuna Pizza (L)”, which is the candidate for the purchase target product in the above (2), is clicked again to remove the check, and the purchase target product candidate In addition to going outside (cart out), the check box of “sausage pizza (L)” is clicked to make “sausage pizza (L)” as a candidate for purchase (cart in). ... (3)

  From the above (1) to (3), it is presumed that the capacity of the pizza necessary for the user is “L” size (menu volume is “300” (3 servings)). If the required pizza capacity is changed, a recommendation is created based on the changed capacity.

  In addition to “sausage pizza” currently in the cart, “Salami pizza” carted out in (2) and “tuna pizza” carted out in (3) are also interested in the product candidates for purchase. I guess that.

  Therefore, as case 1, a carted out product is replaced with a carted product and proposed as a recommended plan. Therefore, on the recommendation screen 110-3, two items “Salami Pizza (M)” and “Tuna Pizza (M)” that are carted out are proposed.

  In case 2, a recommendation plan is proposed in consideration of not only products that have been carted out but also products that are carted in. Therefore, on the recommendation screen 120-3, “sausage pizza” carted in and “salami pizza” and “tuna pizza” carted out are both proposed as recommendations. However, in consideration of the required pizza capacity (menu volume “300”), “S” (menu volume “menu volume”) is used so that “sausage pizza”, “tuna pizza” and “salami pizza” are combined. 100 ")".

  By configuring in this way, it is possible to promote customer's further willingness to purchase by providing alternative recommended proposals with matching necessary capacities instead of the ordered purchased product candidates.

(Configuration example of system 200)
Next, a configuration example of the system 200 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a configuration example of the system 200 according to the embodiment. In FIG. 2, a system 200 includes an information providing apparatus 201 and a plurality of client terminals 202 (three in the drawing).

  In the system 200, the information providing apparatus 201 and the plurality of client terminals 202 are connected to each other via a wired or wireless network 210 so that they can communicate with each other. The network 210 is, for example, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), or the like.

  Here, the information providing apparatus 201 is a computer that has a product master table 220, a user cart DB 230, and a recommended cart DB 240 and performs transmission / reception within the system 200. The information providing apparatus 201 is a server, for example. The product master table 220, the user cart DB 230, and the recommended cart DB 240 will be described later with reference to FIGS.

  The client terminal 202 is a computer that displays, creates, and transmits and receives a screen. The client terminal 202 is, for example, a PC (Personal Computer), a notebook PC, a mobile phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a smartphone, or a tablet terminal used by a user of the system 200.

(Example of hardware configuration of information providing apparatus 201)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a hardware configuration example of the information providing apparatus 201 according to the embodiment. In FIG. 3, an information providing apparatus 201 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 301, a ROM (Read-Only Memory) 302, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 303, an I / F (Interface) 304, and a magnetic disk drive. 305, a magnetic disk 306, an optical disk drive 307, an optical disk 308, and an input device 309. Each component is connected by a bus 300.

  Here, the CPU 301 governs overall control of the information providing apparatus 201. The ROM 302 stores a program such as a boot program. The RAM 303 is used as a work area for the CPU 301. The I / F 304 is connected to the network 210 through a communication line, and is connected to other devices such as the client terminal 202 via the network 210. The I / F 304 controls an internal interface with the network 210 and controls input / output of data from other devices. For example, a modem or a LAN adapter may be employed as the I / F 304.

  The magnetic disk drive 305 controls the reading / writing of the data with respect to the magnetic disk 306 according to control of CPU301. The magnetic disk 306 stores data written under the control of the magnetic disk drive 305. The optical disk drive 307 controls reading / writing of data with respect to the optical disk 308 according to the control of the CPU 301. The optical disk 308 stores data written under the control of the optical disk drive 307, and causes the computer to read data stored on the optical disk 308.

  The input device 309 inputs data such as characters, numbers, and various instructions. The input device 309 is, for example, a keyboard having keys for input or a touch panel type input pad. Note that the information providing apparatus 201 may include a display for displaying data in addition to the above-described components. The information providing apparatus 201 may not include the optical disk drive 307 and the optical disk 308 among the above-described components, for example.

(Hardware configuration example of client terminal 202)
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a hardware configuration example of the client terminal 202 according to the embodiment. 4, the client terminal 202 includes a CPU 401, a ROM 402, a RAM 403, a magnetic disk drive 404, a magnetic disk 405, an optical disk drive 406, an optical disk 407, a display 408, an I / F 409, a keyboard 410, and the like. , A mouse 411, a scanner 412, and a printer 413. Each component is connected by a bus 400.

  Here, the CPU 401 governs overall control of the client terminal 202. The ROM 402 stores programs such as a boot program. The RAM 403 is used as a work area for the CPU 401. The magnetic disk drive 404 controls the reading / writing of the data with respect to the magnetic disk 405 according to control of CPU401. The magnetic disk 405 stores data written under the control of the magnetic disk drive 404.

  The optical disk drive 406 controls reading / writing of data with respect to the optical disk 407 according to the control of the CPU 401. The optical disk 407 stores data written under the control of the optical disk drive 406, or causes the computer to read data stored on the optical disk 407.

  The display 408 displays data such as a document, an image, and function information as well as a cursor, an icon, or a tool box. As the display 408, for example, a CRT, a TFT liquid crystal display, a plasma display, an organic EL display, or the like can be adopted.

  The I / F 409 is connected to the network 210 through a communication line, and is connected to another device such as the information providing device 201 via the network 210. The I / F 409 controls an internal interface with the network 210 and controls input / output of data from other devices. For example, a modem or a LAN adapter may be employed as the I / F 409.

  The keyboard 410 includes keys for inputting characters, numbers, various instructions, and the like, and inputs data. Moreover, a touch panel type input pad or a numeric keypad may be used. The mouse 411 moves the cursor, selects a range, moves the window, changes the size, and the like. A touch panel, a trackball, a joystick, or the like may be used as long as it has the same function as a pointing device.

  The scanner 412 optically reads an image and takes in the image data into the client terminal 202. The scanner 412 may have an OCR (Optical Character Reader) function. The printer 413 prints image data and document data. As the printer 413, for example, a laser printer or an ink jet printer can be adopted. Note that the client terminal 202 may not include the optical disk drive 406, the optical disk 407, the scanner 412, the printer 413, and the like among the above-described components.

(Storage contents of the product master table 220)
Next, the contents stored in the product master table 220 of the information providing apparatus 201 will be described with reference to FIG. The product master table 220 is realized by a storage device such as the RAM 303, the magnetic disk 306, and the optical disk 308 of the information providing apparatus 201 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the contents stored in the product master table 220 according to the embodiment. In FIG. 5, the product master table 220 has fields of “menu code”, “size code”, “menu name”, “amount”, and “menu volume”, for example, by setting information in each field. Product master information (for example, product master information 500-1 to 500-15) is stored as a record.

  Here, the “menu code” is a code for identifying the type of product. The “size code” is a code for identifying the size of the product. “Menu name” is information relating to the name of the product. “Amount” is the amount information of the product. “Menu volume” is information relating to the product volume. “Menu volume” defines a product volume when the serving size is 100. “300” indicates that it is equivalent to three servings.

  In the product master table 220 of FIG. 5, for example, “salami pizza” is stored in association with the menu code “0001” regardless of the size. Further, the difference in size of the same product “Salami Pizza” is determined based on the size information of the size code. Therefore, in the product master table 220 of FIG. 5, it is possible to determine whether or not the products are of the same type based on the menu code. Further, when specifying a product including the size, it is necessary to refer to both the menu code and the size code.

(Contents stored in the user cart DB 230)
Next, the contents stored in the user cart DB 230 of the information providing apparatus 201 will be described with reference to FIG. The user cart DB 230 is realized by a storage device such as the RAM 303, the magnetic disk 306, and the optical disk 308 of the information providing apparatus 201 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the contents stored in the user cart DB 230 according to the embodiment. In FIG. 6, the user cart DB 230 has, for example, “menu code”, “size code”, “number”, and “cart state” fields, and user cart information is set by setting information in each field. (For example, user cart information 600-1 to 600-5) is stored as a record.

  The “menu code” is a code for identifying the type of product. The “size code” is a code for identifying the size of the product. The “menu code” and “size code” correspond to the “menu code” and “size code” in the product master table 220 shown in FIG. “Number” is information relating to the quantity of the product.

  “Cart state” is information indicating the state of a product selected as a candidate for a purchased product. When the product is selected as a purchase candidate, “IN” is stored, and when the product is deselected, “IN” is overwritten. Thus, “in” is repeatedly stored when the product is selected, and “out” is repeatedly stored when the product is canceled.

  Specifically, since the user cart information 600-1, 600-2, 600-5 is in the cart state: IN, it indicates that the product is selected as a candidate for the purchased product. In addition, since the user cart information 600-3 and 600-4 is in the cart state: out, the product is selected as a candidate for the purchased product, but the selection is subsequently canceled, and at present, the product is selected as the purchased product candidate. This indicates that the product has not been selected.

(Contents stored in the recommended cart DB 240)
Next, the contents stored in the recommended cart DB 240 included in the information providing apparatus 201 will be described with reference to FIG. The recommended cart DB 240 is realized by a storage device such as the RAM 303, the magnetic disk 306, and the optical disk 308 of the information providing apparatus 201 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the contents stored in the recommended cart DB 240 according to the embodiment. In FIG. 7, the recommended cart DB 240 has, for example, fields of “menu code” and “size code”. By setting information in each field, recommended cart information (for example, recommended cart information 700-1 to 700-700). -4) is stored as a record.

  The product list of “our recommended order” shown in FIG. 9 is created based on the recommended cart DB 240.

(Screen example of product list display screen)
Next, the contents of the product list display screen will be described. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of a screen example of a product list display screen according to the embodiment. In FIG. 8, a “product list display screen” tab 801 and a “shopping basket screen” tab 802 are provided on the upper left side of the product list display screen 800.

  In the product list display screen 800, the “product list display screen” tab 801 is selected, and the product list display screen is displayed by a user operation input using the keyboard 410 or the mouse 411 shown in FIG. When a cursor (not shown) displayed in 800 is moved and the “shopping cart screen” tab 802 is clicked, a shopping cart screen 900 shown in FIG. 9 is displayed.

  On the product list display screen 800, when the “Proceed purchase procedure” button 803 is clicked, the purchase procedure screen is omitted for the selected product. Further, when the “end” button 804 is clicked, the processing is completed without purchasing the product, and the product list display screen 800 is closed.

  In the product list display screen 800, product selection fields 805 to 810 are displayed. When the product selection field cannot be displayed, the product selection field that cannot be displayed can be displayed by operating the scroll bar 811 by moving a cursor (not shown).

  In the product selection field 805, a product name and product image are displayed, and an “L size” check box 812, an “M size” check box 813, an “S size” check box 814, and a “Add to cart” button 815 are provided. Is displayed.

  When at least one of the check boxes 812 to 814 is checked, the “add to cart” button 815 is clicked, so that the candidate for the purchased product can be selected. A numerical value input screen (not shown) may be provided in the vicinity of the check box, and a plurality of the same size may be selected by inputting a desired number on the numerical value input screen. In FIG. 8, since the check box 812 is checked, it indicates that the L size of “salami pizza” in the product selection field 805 is selected as a purchase product candidate.

  In addition, in order to cancel the selection of the purchased product candidate and exclude it from the purchased product candidate, by checking the check box 812 that is checked again, the check box is cleared, and “Add to Cart” is selected. When the button 815 is clicked, the selection of the purchase product candidate can be canceled.

(Example of shopping cart screen)
Next, the contents of the shopping cart screen will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a screen example of the shopping cart screen according to the embodiment. In FIG. 9, the shopping cart screen 900 displays an “your selected order” screen 901 and a “our recommended order” screen 902. A list of candidate products for purchase selected on the product list display screen 800 shown in FIG.

  In addition, the “our recommended order” screen 902 displays a list of other products having the same capacity as the total capacity of the purchase candidate products displayed on the “your selected order” screen 901. If a recommendation is not created, the “Our recommended order” screen 902 is not displayed, and the “Our recommended order” screen 902 is displayed with a blank or “There is no“ Our recommended order ””. Displayed in position.

  When purchasing the purchase candidate product displayed on the “order you have selected” screen 901, a “Purchase” button 903 is pressed. On the other hand, when the purchase candidate product displayed on the “our recommended order” screen 902 is purchased, a “purchase” button 904 is pressed. When one of the “Purchase” buttons 903 and 904 is pressed, the screen shifts to a product purchase processing screen (not shown).

  Further, when the “end” button 905 is clicked, the processing is ended without purchasing the product, and the shopping cart screen 900 is closed.

(Functional configuration example of the information providing apparatus 201)
FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the information providing apparatus 201 according to the embodiment. In FIG. 10, the information providing apparatus 201 includes a reception unit 1001, an acquisition unit 1002, a calculation unit 1003, a creation unit 1004, and an output unit 1005. The accepting unit 1001 to the output unit 1005 are functions as a control unit. Specifically, for example, the CPU 301 executes a program stored in a storage device such as the ROM 302, the RAM 303, the magnetic disk 306, and the optical disc 308 shown in FIG. The function is realized by executing the function or by the I / F 304.

  The accepting unit 1001 accepts identification information of purchase candidate products selected as purchase candidates and identification information of excluded products excluded from the selection of purchase candidates from the purchase candidate products. Specifically, for example, in the product list display screen 800 shown in FIG. 8, the user can select a purchase candidate by moving the cursor to the product check column and turning on the check. It is possible to exclude from the selection of purchase candidates by turning off the check in the checked column. Further, the identification information is specifically the menu code shown in FIG. 5, for example.

  The acquisition unit 1002 is a storage unit that stores the product identification information, the product type, and the capacity in association with each other based on the purchase candidate product identification information and the excluded product identification information received by the reception unit 1001. By referring to a certain product master table 220, type information and capacity information of purchase candidate products and excluded products are acquired. Specifically, for example, a menu name that is type information corresponding to a menu code and a menu volume that is capacity information are acquired.

  Based on the capacity information acquired by the acquisition unit 1002, the calculation unit 1003 calculates a necessary capacity obtained by excluding excluded products from purchase candidate products. Specifically, in the example of the use cart DB 230 shown in FIG. 6, the user cart information 600-1 and 600-2 have menu volumes “300” and “100”, respectively. The total is “400”. The user cart information 600-5 (menu name: cola) is not subject to calculation because the menu volume is not set. Here, the total value “400” is set as the required capacity.

  The creation unit 1004 determines that the difference between the total capacity of the excluded products and the required capacity is within a predetermined value based on the required capacity calculated by the calculating unit 1003 and the type information and capacity information of the excluded products acquired by the acquiring unit 1002. The information regarding the alternative purchase candidate product is created (see case 1 shown in FIG. 1).

  Here, the predetermined value may be a specific numerical value, for example, or may be a ratio of the entire capacity (for example, about 5% of the whole plus or minus). The predetermined value may be set by the user.

  The creation unit 1004 also calculates the total capacity and required capacity of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product based on the required capacity calculated by the calculation unit 1003 and the type information and capacity information of the excluded product acquired by the acquisition unit 1002. Information regarding alternative purchase candidate products such that the difference between them is within a predetermined value may be created (see case 2 shown in FIG. 1).

  The output unit 1005 outputs information regarding the alternative purchase candidate product created by the creation unit 1004. Specifically, the CPU 301 of the information providing apparatus 201 transmits information regarding the alternative purchase candidate product to the client terminal 202, and the CPU 401 of the client terminal 202 receives the information regarding the alternative purchase candidate product and displays it on the display 408.

  The processing of the calculation unit 1003 and the processing of the creation unit 1004 may be performed every time the receiving unit 1001 receives the identification information of the purchase candidate product or the identification information of the excluded product. By doing so, every time the user selects a product or cancels the selection of the product, information on a new alternative purchase candidate product is output.

(Information provision processing procedure of the information provision apparatus 201)
Next, an information provision processing procedure of the information provision apparatus 201 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an information provision processing procedure of the information provision apparatus 201 according to the embodiment.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 11, first, the CPU 301 determines whether a display request for a product list display screen has been received from the client terminal 202 (step S1101). Here, it waits for reception (step S1101: No), and when it is received (step S1101: Yes), the product list display screen 800 as shown in FIG. The screen information of the product list display screen 800 is transmitted to the client terminal 202 (step S1102).

  Next, the CPU 301 determines whether or not the merchandise identification information to be carted in is received from the client terminal 202 (step S1103). Here, when the merchandise identification information to cart in is not received (step S1103: No), it transfers to step S1106. On the other hand, when the merchandise identification information to be carted in is received (step S1103: Yes), the CPU 301 refers to the merchandise master table 220 based on the received merchandise identification information and determines the type and capacity of the merchandise to be carted in. Obtain (step S1104).

  Then, the CPU 301 stores the type and capacity of the acquired product in the user cart DB 230, and sets the cart state of the target product to “in” in the “cart state” field (step S1105). Thereafter, the CPU 301 determines whether a confirmation request has been received from the client terminal 202 (step S1106).

  If the confirmation request is not received in step S1106 (step S1106: No), the CPU 301 next determines whether or not the product identification information to be carted out is received from the client terminal 202 (step S1106). S1107). Here, when the merchandise identification information to cart out is not received (step S1107: No), it transfers to step S1109. When the product identification information to be carted out is received (step S1107: Yes), the CPU 301 updates the “cart state” field of the user cart DB 230 and rewrites the cart state of the target product to “out” (step S1108). ).

  Thereafter, the CPU 301 determines whether or not a use end request has been received from the client terminal 202 (step S1109). In step S1109, when a use end request is received (step S1109: Yes), a series of processing ends. Here, when the use end request is not received (step S1109: No), the CPU 301 next determines whether or not there is a [cart state: out] item in the user cart DB 230 (step S1109: No). S1110). If there is no product in [cart state: out] (step S1110: No), the process returns to step S1103.

  In step S1110, if there is a product in the [cart state: out] (step S1110: Yes), the CPU 301 executes recommended plan creation processing shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 described later (step S1111).

  Then, the CPU 301 creates a shopping cart screen in which the recommended plan created in step S1111 is added and transmits it to the client terminal 202 (step S1112). Then, it returns to step S1103 and repeats the process of each step after step S1103.

  In step S1106, when the CPU 301 receives a confirmation request from the client terminal 202 (step S1106: Yes), the purchase process is subsequently executed (step S1113), and the series of processes ends. In the purchase process, for example, the price is confirmed, the address of the delivery address is confirmed. A detailed description of the purchase process is omitted.

(Recommendation plan creation process)
Next, a specific processing procedure of the recommended plan creation processing in step S1111 of the flowchart of FIG. 11 will be described. FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are flowcharts illustrating an example of a specific processing procedure of the recommendation creation processing according to the embodiment.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 12, first, the CPU 301 extracts the menu code, the size code, and the number of the user cart information [cart state: in] from the user cart DB 230 shown in FIG. 6 (step S1201). Specifically, for example, in the user cart DB 230 of FIG. 6, each menu code, size code, and number of the user cart information 600-1, 600-2, 600-5 are extracted.

  Next, the CPU 301 calculates the required capacity from the total menu volume using the product master table 220 shown in FIG. 5 (step S1202). Specifically, in the user cart information 600-1 and 600-2, the menu volumes are “300” and “100”, respectively, and they are added to obtain “400”.

  Next, the CPU 301 selects the minimum size of the item [cart state: out] (step S1203). Specifically, the menu code of the item [cart state: out] is extracted from the user cart DB 230, and the smallest size is selected from the same menu codes as the menu code. For both the user cart information 600-3 and 600-4, the S size is selected as the minimum size.

  Then, the CPU 301 calculates the total capacity of the menu volume of the minimum size of the item [cart state: out] (step S1204). Specifically, the total capacity of the user cart information 600-3 and 600-4 is “200”. Although illustration is omitted, instead of calculating the total capacity of the menu volume of the minimum size of the product in [cart state: out], the minimum size of the product in [cart state: in] and [cart state: out] is calculated. The total capacity of the menu volume may be calculated.

  Next, the CPU 301 determines whether or not the difference between the total capacity calculated in step S1204 and the required capacity calculated in step S1202 is within a predetermined value (step S1205).

  If the difference between the total capacity and the required capacity is not within the predetermined value (step S1205: No), the CPU 301 next determines whether or not the total capacity is larger than the required capacity (step S1206). When the total capacity is larger than the necessary capacity (step S1206: Yes), one product is deleted from the products in [cart state: out] (step S1207). Products are deleted in a predetermined order. For example, the order of cart-in or the reverse order thereof, the order of cart-out or the reverse order thereof, and the order of the amount of goods may be used.

  Moreover, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, you may make it delete one goods from the goods of [cart state: in] and [cart state: out]. At that time, the products are deleted in a predetermined order. For example, the order of cart-in or the reverse order thereof, the order of cart-out or the reverse order thereof, and the order of the amount of goods may be used. In addition, a product in [cart state: in] may be deleted in preference to a product in [cart state: out], or vice versa.

  Next, the CPU 301 determines whether or not there is a [cart state: out] product remaining as a result of the deletion in step S1207 (step S1208). If there is a remaining [cart state: out] product (step S1208: Yes), the process returns to step S1204. On the other hand, when there is no remaining [cart state: out] product (step S1208: No), a recommendation plan cannot be created, so the CPU 301 creates and transmits a shopping cart screen without a recommendation plan (step S1209). ). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1103 in the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S1205, when the difference between the total capacity and the required capacity is within the predetermined value (step S1205: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1112 in the flowchart of FIG. In step S1206, when the total capacity is smaller than the required capacity (step S1206: No), the process proceeds to step S1301 in the flowchart of FIG.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 13, first, the CPU 301 extracts the first product among the remaining [cart state: out] products (step S1301). The product is extracted in a predetermined order. For example, the order of cart-in or the reverse order thereof, the order of cart-out or the reverse order thereof, and the order of the amount of goods may be used.

  Although illustration is omitted, one product may be selected from products in [cart state: in] and [cart state: out]. At that time, the product is selected in a predetermined order. For example, the order of cart-in or the reverse order thereof, the order of cart-out or the reverse order thereof, and the order of the amount of goods may be used. Further, a product in [cart state: in] may be selected in preference to a product in [cart state: out], or vice versa.

  Then, the CPU 301 determines whether or not the size of the extracted product is the maximum size (step S1302). Here, when the size of the extracted product is the maximum size (step S1302: Yes), the product proceeds to step S1308 without doing anything. On the other hand, when the size of the extracted product is not the maximum size (step S1302: No), the CPU 301 increases the size of the product by one (step S1303) and calculates the total (total capacity) of the menu volumes (step S1303). S1304).

  Then, the CPU 301 determines whether or not the difference between the total capacity calculated in step S1304 and the required capacity calculated in step S1202 is within a predetermined value (step S1305). If the difference between the total capacity and the required capacity is within the predetermined value (step S1305: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1112 in the flowchart of FIG. On the other hand, if the difference between the total capacity and the required capacity is not within the predetermined value (step S1305: No), the CPU 301 determines whether all the products have been extracted (step S1306).

  Here, when not all the products have been extracted yet (step S1306: No), the next product is extracted (step S1307), and the process returns to step S1302. On the other hand, when all the products have been extracted (step S1306: YES), the process returns to step S1301.

  In step S1302, when the size of the extracted product is the maximum size (step S1302: Yes), the maximum flag is set although illustration is omitted, and the process proceeds to step S1308. It is determined whether or not there is a maximum flag (step S1308). Here, when all the products are not the maximum size (step S1308: No), the process proceeds to step S1306. On the other hand, when all the products have the maximum size (step S1308: Yes), the process proceeds to step S1209 in the flowchart of FIG. On the other hand, when all the products have the maximum size, the number adjustment processing may be performed although illustration is omitted.

(Information processing procedure of client terminal 202)
Next, an information processing procedure of the client terminal 202 according to the embodiment will be described. 14 and 15 are flowcharts illustrating an example of an information processing procedure of the client terminal 202 according to the embodiment.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 14, first, the CPU 401 determines whether or not a display request for the product list display screen 800 has been received (step S1401). Specifically, the display request for the product list display screen 800 is made, for example, by designating a URL of a Web site where the product list display screen 800 is registered.

  Here, after waiting for receiving a display request for the product list display screen 800 (step S1401), if a display request for the product list display screen 800 is received (step S1401: Yes), the CPU 401 causes the product list display screen to be displayed. A display request 800 is transmitted to the information providing apparatus 201 (step S1402).

  Thereafter, the CPU 401 determines whether or not the screen information of the product list display screen 800 has been received from the information providing apparatus 201 (step S1403). Here, after receiving the screen information of the product list display screen 800 (step S1403: No), if the screen information of the product list display screen 800 is received (step S1403: Yes), the CPU 401 next Then, it is determined whether or not a product to be carted in has been received (step S1404). Specifically, for example, the receipt of the product to be carted in can be performed by clicking the “Add to Cart” button 815 in a state where the check boxes of the product purchase fields 805 to 810 are checked.

  If a product to be carted in is not received (step S1404: No), the process proceeds to step S1106 without doing anything. On the other hand, when a product to be carted in is received (step S1404: Yes), the CPU 401 transmits the product identification information to be carted in to the information providing apparatus 201 (step S1405).

  Next, the CPU 401 determines whether a confirmation request has been accepted (step S1406). Specifically, for example, it is determined whether the “Proceed with purchase procedure” button 803 shown in FIG. 8 is pressed or the “Purchase” buttons 903 and 904 shown in FIG. 9 are pressed.

  If the confirmation request is not accepted (step S1406: No), the process proceeds to step S1501 in the flowchart of FIG. On the other hand, when a confirmation request is received (step S1406: Yes), the CPU 401 transmits a confirmation request to the information providing apparatus 201 (step S1407). Then, the CPU 401 executes a purchase process (step S1408) and ends a series of processes.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 15, if the confirmation request has not been received from step S1406 of the flowchart of FIG. 14 (step S1406: No), the CPU 401 next determines whether or not the product to be carted out has been received ( Step S1501). Specifically, for example, accepting a product to be carted out is performed by clicking the “Add to Cart” button 815 with the check boxes in the product purchase fields 805 to 810 being unchecked. Can do.

  Here, when the goods to cart out are not received (step S1501: No), it does nothing and transfers to step S1503. On the other hand, when a product to be carted out is received (step S1501: Yes), the CPU 401 transmits product identification information to be carted out to the information providing apparatus 201 (step S1502).

  Thereafter, the CPU 401 determines whether screen information of the shopping cart screen has been received (step S1503). Specifically, for example, it is determined whether or not the “shopping cart screen” tab 802 is clicked. Specifically, the shopping cart screen is a shopping cart screen 900 to which, for example, a recommendation plan (“our recommended order” screen 902) shown in FIG. 9 is added, and the illustration is omitted depending on the item selection status. There may be a shopping cart screen with no recommendations.

  In step S1503, the process waits until screen information on the shopping cart screen is received (step S1503: No). If screen information on the shopping cart screen has been received (step S1503: Yes), the CPU 401 determines whether a display request for the shopping cart screen has been received (step S1504). If the shopping cart screen display request is not accepted (step S1504: NO), the process proceeds to step S1506 without doing anything. On the other hand, when the display request of the shopping cart screen is received (step S1504: Yes), the shopping cart screen is displayed by the CPU 401 (step S1505).

  Thereafter, the CPU 401 determines whether a use end request has been accepted (step S1506). Specifically, for example, it is determined whether or not “end” button 905 has been clicked. Here, when the use end request is not received (step S1506: No), the process returns to step S1401 in the flowchart of FIG. 14, and thereafter, each step is repeatedly executed. On the other hand, when a use end request is received (step S1506: Yes), the CPU 401 transmits a use end request to the information providing apparatus 201 (step S1507), and the series of processing ends.

  As described above, according to the information providing apparatus 201 according to the embodiment, the status of the input (cart in) / deletion (cart out) of a plurality of products to the shopping cart is detected, and the input products are combined. , It is possible to display a recommendation that matches the user's current desire (product, quantity, price that the user intends to purchase).

  In particular, when trying to order food such as pizza from the Internet, there are cases in which there is a problem even in the same pizza because there are multiple types of products (options) in the same pizza. In addition, products that meet the desire to eat right now are relatively difficult to determine from past purchases, and it is required to detect products that meet the current needs and recommend them to users. ing.

  The information providing apparatus 201 according to the present embodiment solves such a problem, detects the state of insertion / deletion of a plurality of products in the shopping basket, combines the input products, and the user's current desire Recommendations that match (the product, quantity, price that the user wants to purchase) can be displayed. In other words, if there is a product that is lost due to the purchase this time, cart in for the time being, then after considering the required capacity, just cart out, guess the user's desire, and the required capacity based on that estimation It is possible to display a recommended combination purchase in consideration, to support the user's selection of purchase products through Internet shopping, and to increase the user's willingness to purchase.

  Moreover, the information provision apparatus 201 of this Embodiment is applicable to the service which provides a travel service using Web other than food other than a pizza, for example. Specifically, for example, a combination of optional tours is presented based on “required time” corresponding to the required capacity. More specifically, while the customer has designated diving (4 hours), as a recommendation, the customer may propose a shopping tour (1 hour) + a cycling tour (3 hours).

  Further, the information providing apparatus 201 according to the present embodiment can be applied to a rental service using the Web. For example, a combination of rental products is presented based on “required time” corresponding to the required capacity. Specifically, for example, when reserving a rental car, the user designates 2 nights made by company A, but as a recommended plan, it proposes 1 night made by company B + 1 night made by company C. Good.

  It can also be applied to cloud services. For example, a plurality of proposals for a required amount of CPU power may be presented in an arrangement of server configurations. Specifically, for example, the user may designate a model having a CPU power of 300 MHz and present three 100 MHz servers as recommended candidates.

  The information providing method described in the embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. The information providing program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. The information providing program may be distributed via a network such as the Internet.

  The following additional notes are disclosed with respect to the embodiment described above.

(Supplementary note 1)
Receiving the identification information of the purchase candidate product selected as the purchase candidate and the identification information of the excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products,
Based on the received identification information of the purchase candidate product and the identification information of the excluded product, with reference to a storage unit that associates and stores the identification information of the product and the capacity, the purchase candidate product and the excluded product Get capacity information,
Based on the acquired capacity information, calculate the required capacity by excluding the excluded products from the candidate products for purchase,
Based on the calculated required capacity and the acquired capacity information of the excluded product, information on alternative purchase candidate products such that the difference between the total capacity of the excluded products and the required capacity is within a predetermined value. make,
Outputting information on the created alternative purchase candidate product,
An information providing program for executing a process.

(Appendix 2)
Receiving the identification information of the purchase candidate product selected as the purchase candidate and the identification information of the excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products,
Based on the received identification information of the purchase candidate product and the identification information of the excluded product, with reference to a storage unit that associates and stores the identification information of the product and the capacity, the purchase candidate product and the excluded product Get capacity information,
Based on the acquired capacity information, calculate the required capacity by excluding the excluded products from the candidate products for purchase,
Based on the calculated required capacity and the acquired capacity information of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product, the difference between the total capacity of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product and the required capacity is within a predetermined value. Information about potential replacement purchases such as
Outputting information on the created alternative purchase candidate product,
An information providing program for executing a process.

(Additional remark 3) The process which calculates the said required capacity | capacitance, and the process which produces the information regarding the said alternative purchase candidate goods are performed whenever the identification information of the said purchase candidate goods or the identification information of the said exclusion goods is received. The information providing program according to Supplementary Note 1 or 2.

(Additional remark 4) The reception part which receives the identification information of the purchase candidate goods selected as a purchase candidate, and the identification information of the exclusion product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate goods,
Based on the identification information of the purchase candidate product received by the reception unit and the identification information of the excluded product, a storage unit that associates and stores product identification information and capacity, and stores the purchase candidate product and An acquisition unit for acquiring capacity information of the excluded product;
Based on the capacity information acquired by the acquisition unit, a calculation unit that calculates a necessary capacity excluding the excluded product from the purchase candidate product,
Based on the required capacity calculated by the calculation unit and the capacity information of the excluded product acquired by the acquiring unit, a difference between the total capacity of the excluded product and the required capacity is within a predetermined value. A creation section that creates information about potential replacement purchase products,
An output unit for outputting information on the alternative purchase candidate product created by the creation unit;
An information providing apparatus comprising:

(Additional remark 5) The reception part which receives the identification information of the purchase candidate goods selected as a purchase candidate, and the identification information of the excluded goods excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate goods,
Based on the identification information of the purchase candidate product received by the reception unit and the identification information of the excluded product, a storage unit that associates and stores product identification information and capacity, and stores the purchase candidate product and An acquisition unit for acquiring capacity information of the excluded product;
Based on the capacity information acquired by the acquisition unit, a calculation unit that calculates a necessary capacity excluding the excluded product from the purchase candidate product,
Based on the required capacity calculated by the calculation unit and the acquired capacity information of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product, the difference between the total capacity and the required capacity of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product is A creation unit that creates information about alternative purchase candidate products that are within a predetermined value;
An output unit for outputting information on the alternative purchase candidate product created by the creation unit;
An information providing apparatus comprising:

(Appendix 6)
Receiving the identification information of the purchase candidate product selected as the purchase candidate and the identification information of the excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products,
Based on the received identification information of the purchase candidate product and the identification information of the excluded product, with reference to a storage unit that associates and stores the identification information of the product and the capacity, the purchase candidate product and the excluded product Get capacity information,
Based on the acquired capacity information, calculate the required capacity by excluding the excluded products from the candidate products for purchase,
Based on the calculated required capacity and the acquired capacity information of the excluded product, information on alternative purchase candidate products such that the difference between the total capacity of the excluded products and the required capacity is within a predetermined value. make,
Outputting information on the created alternative purchase candidate product,
An information providing method characterized by executing processing.

(Appendix 7) The computer
Receiving the identification information of the purchase candidate product selected as the purchase candidate and the identification information of the excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products,
Based on the received identification information of the purchase candidate product and the identification information of the excluded product, with reference to a storage unit that associates and stores the identification information of the product and the capacity, the purchase candidate product and the excluded product Get capacity information,
Based on the acquired capacity information, calculate the required capacity by excluding the excluded products from the candidate products for purchase,
Based on the calculated required capacity and the acquired capacity information of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product, the difference between the total capacity of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product and the required capacity is within a predetermined value. Information about potential replacement purchases such as
Outputting information on the created alternative purchase candidate product,
An information providing method characterized by executing processing.

200 System 201 Information Providing Device 202 Client Terminal 220 Product Master Table 230 User Cart DB
240 Recommended Cart DB
800 Product list display screen 900 Shopping basket screen 1001 Reception unit 1002 Acquisition unit 1003 Calculation unit 1004 Creation unit 1005 Output unit

Claims (6)

On the computer,
Receiving the identification information of the purchase candidate product selected as the purchase candidate and the identification information of the excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products,
Based on the received identification information of the purchase candidate product and the identification information of the excluded product, with reference to a storage unit that associates and stores the identification information of the product and the capacity, the purchase candidate product and the excluded product Get capacity information,
Based on the acquired capacity information, calculate the required capacity by excluding the excluded products from the candidate products for purchase,
Based on the calculated required capacity and the acquired capacity information of the excluded product, information on alternative purchase candidate products such that the difference between the total capacity of the excluded products and the required capacity is within a predetermined value. make,
Outputting information on the created alternative purchase candidate product,
An information providing program for executing a process. On the computer,
Receiving the identification information of the purchase candidate product selected as the purchase candidate and the identification information of the excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products,
Based on the received identification information of the purchase candidate product and the identification information of the excluded product, with reference to a storage unit that associates and stores the identification information of the product and the capacity, the purchase candidate product and the excluded product Get capacity information,
Based on the acquired capacity information, calculate the required capacity by excluding the excluded products from the candidate products for purchase,
Based on the calculated required capacity and the acquired capacity information of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product, the difference between the total capacity of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product and the required capacity is within a predetermined value. Information about potential replacement purchases such as
Outputting information on the created alternative purchase candidate product,
An information providing program for executing a process. A receiving unit that receives identification information of a purchase candidate product selected as a purchase candidate, and identification information of an excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products;
Based on the identification information of the purchase candidate product received by the reception unit and the identification information of the excluded product, a storage unit that associates and stores product identification information and capacity, and stores the purchase candidate product and An acquisition unit for acquiring capacity information of the excluded product;
Based on the capacity information acquired by the acquisition unit, a calculation unit that calculates a necessary capacity excluding the excluded product from the purchase candidate product,
Based on the required capacity calculated by the calculation unit and the capacity information of the excluded product acquired by the acquiring unit, a difference between the total capacity of the excluded product and the required capacity is within a predetermined value. A creation section that creates information about potential replacement purchase products,
An output unit for outputting information on the alternative purchase candidate product created by the creation unit;
An information providing apparatus comprising: A receiving unit that receives identification information of a purchase candidate product selected as a purchase candidate, and identification information of an excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products;
Based on the identification information of the purchase candidate product received by the reception unit and the identification information of the excluded product, a storage unit that associates and stores product identification information and capacity, and stores the purchase candidate product and An acquisition unit for acquiring capacity information of the excluded product;
Based on the capacity information acquired by the acquisition unit, a calculation unit that calculates a necessary capacity excluding the excluded product from the purchase candidate product,
Based on the required capacity calculated by the calculation unit and the acquired capacity information of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product, the difference between the total capacity and the required capacity of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product is A creation unit that creates information about alternative purchase candidate products that are within a predetermined value;
An output unit for outputting information on the alternative purchase candidate product created by the creation unit;
An information providing apparatus comprising: Computer
Receiving the identification information of the purchase candidate product selected as the purchase candidate and the identification information of the excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products,
Based on the received identification information of the purchase candidate product and the identification information of the excluded product, with reference to a storage unit that associates and stores the identification information of the product and the capacity, the purchase candidate product and the excluded product Get capacity information,
Based on the acquired capacity information, calculate the required capacity by excluding the excluded products from the candidate products for purchase,
Based on the calculated required capacity and the acquired capacity information of the excluded product, information on alternative purchase candidate products such that the difference between the total capacity of the excluded products and the required capacity is within a predetermined value. make,
Outputting information on the created alternative purchase candidate product,
An information providing method characterized by executing processing. Computer
Receiving the identification information of the purchase candidate product selected as the purchase candidate and the identification information of the excluded product excluded from the selection of the purchase candidate among the purchase candidate products,
Based on the received identification information of the purchase candidate product and the identification information of the excluded product, with reference to a storage unit that associates and stores the identification information of the product and the capacity, the purchase candidate product and the excluded product Get capacity information,
Based on the acquired capacity information, calculate the required capacity by excluding the excluded products from the candidate products for purchase,
Based on the calculated required capacity and the acquired capacity information of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product, the difference between the total capacity of the purchase candidate product and the excluded product and the required capacity is within a predetermined value. Information about potential replacement purchases such as
Outputting information on the created alternative purchase candidate product,
An information providing method characterized by executing processing.

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