JP2001034681A - Document flow system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a document flow system reading document data through a network while the work space and actual feeling in the form processing of a paper base are reproduced. SOLUTION: When a tray processing part 13 of a server computer 10 is instructed for the storage of document data to an output box from any client computer 20, it stores document data in a personal computer 17 and stores link information showing the storage position of document data in the directory for input box in the client computer 20 designated by a next reader. When the take-out of document data is instructed from the input box by any client computer 20, the tray processing part 13 obtains document data stored in the personal computer 17 from link information stored in the directory for input box in the client computer 20 and returns it to the client computer.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a document flow system that circulates document data between a plurality of computers via a server computer connected by a (local area network) or the like.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art With the recent improvement of information processing technology and communication technology, systemization has been attempted in various industries. However, information transmission in the workplace still depends on inefficient paper-based form processing.

[0003] For example, when an employee pays for travel expenses, the employee takes out a fixed form for travel expense payment from the cabinet, fills in necessary information such as name and affiliation, and submits it to the superior. After receiving the seal of approval from the director, the company takes actions such as making a request to a person in charge of the accounting department.

In recent years, many companies have laid a private communication network called a LAN or the like, and many people have connected information terminals of each employee to send and receive e-mail via the private communication network. I have. Under these circumstances, studies have recently begun on whether the efficiency of information transmission can be improved by replacing the paper-based form processing with electronic data, such as by substituting electronic mail.

[0005] However, this electronic mail system is not suitable for a form processing that requires an approval stamp of a viewer, and is also capable of electronically processing a form that requires the approval of a plurality of persons, such as a request for approval. When circulating by e-mail, it is difficult for the issuer to grasp the circulation status of his / her own form.
Furthermore, it is difficult for those unfamiliar with the handling of e-mail to transfer the message to the next viewer or, for example, send back the message if it finds an incomplete entry. Therefore, it is not practical to perform a form processing such as circulation by a plurality of persons using an electronic mail system.

[0006]

As described above, even with today's systematization progressing and the widespread use of information terminals by individuals, inefficient paper-based form processing is not possible in the workplace. Since it occupies the mainstream of information transmission, it is necessary to set a destination, so it is a reality that form processing is performed with an e-mail system that requires some skill to transfer or return to the next viewer It was not a target.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and provides a document flow system capable of circulating document data through a network while reproducing a work space and feeling in paper-based form processing. The purpose is to provide.

[0008]

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the document flow system according to the present invention is capable of providing a user with a copy of template document data as if taking out a form from a cabinet. Therefore, in a document flow system for circulating document data among a plurality of client computers via a server computer, the server computer stores unfilled template document data having a predetermined format. A model document storing unit, a model document presenting unit that presents the model document data stored in the model document storing unit to the client computer as an option, and any one of the model documents responding to the presentation by the model document presenting unit from the client computer. Using the model document data When instructed to create a new document, characterized by comprising a template document providing means for providing a copy of the template document data is automatically generated on the client computer, a.

Conventionally, as a method of using template document data, a user opens desired template document data itself,
Before or after editing, the document was saved under a different document name, or a copy was created using a file management utility program. However, in the former method, there is a risk that the template document data itself is erroneously updated. In the latter method, the user must be familiar with the file management utility program, and the original feeling of the form processing cannot be obtained. .

On the other hand, in the document flow system according to the present invention, for example, as if a drawer of a cabinet is opened,
Only by instructing the creation of a document using the selected and designated template document data, a copy of the document data independent of the template document data can be received, so that there is no risk of updating the template document data by mistake, and Thus, it is possible to give the user a real feeling of the form processing.

Further, the document flow system of the present invention comprises:
It is possible to provide the user with a copy of the template document data in which the circulation route is set, like a form in which a circulation destination is filled in in advance. In the document flow system for circulating document data, the server computer includes template document storage means for storing unfilled template document data having a predetermined format and circulation path information indicating a transfer order between the client computers. And circulation route setting means for setting circulation route information of the template document data in response to a request from the client computer.

In the document flow system according to the present invention, the circulation route of the template document data can be set.
For example, for document data having a predetermined approval route, it is possible to eliminate the necessity of setting a destination when each user as an approver transfers the document data to the next viewer.

Further, the document flow system of the present invention comprises:
The document data being viewed is set to be prohibited from viewing by other users at the request of the user, as if the documents were stored in a safe. In a document flow system for circulating document data between client computers, the server computer stores circulation document storage means for storing document data circulated between the client computers, and stores document data being browsed from the client computers. And a document storage unit for setting the document data to a browsing prohibition state other than the client computer when instructed.

In the document flow system according to the present invention, the document data is set in a state where viewing by other users is prohibited according to the request of the user. Management can be performed.

Further, the document flow system of the present invention comprises:
In accordance with an instruction to store document data in an output box, input of an output box area of a transmission source and an input of a transmission destination are performed so that a form is circulated by putting in and out of an input box and an output box installed on a desk of each individual. The link information of the document data is stored in the box area, and the document data is provided in response to an instruction to retrieve the document data from the input box, and is stored in the output box area of the transmission source and the input area of the transmission destination. In a document flow system that circulates document data among a plurality of client computers via a server computer, the server computer is circulated between the client computers. Circulation document storage means for storing document data and input to each of the client computers Input / output box allocating means for allocating a storage area for storage and a storage area for output box, and when the first client computer instructs to store the document data which has been viewed in the output box, The link information indicating the storage position is stored in the storage area for the output box of the first client computer, and the link information is stored in the storage area for the input box of the second client computer set for the next viewer. Document sending means for storing, and when instructed to take out document data from the input box by the second client computer,
The document data is obtained from the link information stored in the input box storage area of the second client computer and provided to the second client computer, and the document data for the output box of the first client computer and the Document receiving means for deleting the link information stored in each input box storage area of the second client computer.

In the document flow system of the present invention, the storage of the document data in the output box of the transmission source and the storage of the document data in the input box of the transmission destination are synchronized, and the document data from the input box of the transmission destination is synchronized. Since the retrieval of document data and the deletion of document data in the output box of the transmission source are synchronized, it is possible to execute the circulation of document data while giving the user a working space and real feeling in the previous form processing.

Further, the document flow system of the present invention comprises:
When the server computer is instructed to take out the document data from the output box by the first client computer before being instructed to take out the document data from the input box by the second client computer, It is preferable to include a document transmission canceling unit for deleting the link information stored in each storage area for the output box of the first client computer and the storage area for the input box of the second client computer.

This makes it possible to cancel the transfer of the document data until the user of the transmission destination views the document data, and to renew the corrected document data when a defect in the entry is noticed. Reduce the trouble of re-transferring.

Further, the document flow system of the present invention comprises:
After the server computer is instructed from the first client computer to store the browsed document data in the output box, the storage location of the document data in the input box storage area of the second client computer It is preferable to include a transmission suspension period setting unit for setting a period during which the process of storing the link information indicating the transmission suspension period is suspended.

Thus, the document data can be kept in the output box for a certain period of time, and an opportunity to cancel the transfer of the document data can be given.

Further, the document flow system of the present invention comprises:
When the server computer is instructed by the client computer to reply to the transmission source of the document data stored in the input box, the server computer is set to an automatic reply output state. The document transfer means, when the second client computer is in an automatic reply output state,
It is preferable to have an absence notification unit that notifies the first client computer of the absence.

Thus, the client computer at the transmission source can immediately take measures such as taking out the document data from the output box (that is, canceling the transfer of the document data) and changing the transmission destination. It is possible to suppress unnecessary transfer of document data.

Also, the document flow system of the present invention
When the server computer is instructed to store the document data that has been viewed from the second client computer in the return box, It is preferable that a return unit for storing link information indicating a storage position of the document data in an input box storage area of the first client computer is provided.

By doing so, the document data can be sent back as if the form was sent back by a send-back box installed on the desk. It is possible to execute the return of the document data while giving a space and an actual feeling.

Further, the document flow system of the present invention
When the server computer is instructed to store the output history file allocating means for allocating the storage area for the output history file to each of the client computers, and to store the document data which has been browsed from the client computer in the output box or the return box; A log history storage unit for storing link information indicating a storage location of the document data in a log history file storage area of the client computer; and the client computer inquiring about a circulation status of the document data in the log file. In this case, by examining whether or not link information indicating the storage location of the document data is stored in the storage area for the outgoing history files of all the client computers designated in the circulation route of the document data. , Times of the document data It is preferred to comprise a circulation status notifying unit for notifying the client computer to obtain a situation, the.

[0026] This makes it possible for each user including the issuer to easily confirm the circulation status of the document data as if referring to the circulation status of each form entered in the delivery history file installed on the desk. Is possible.

Further, the document flow system of the present invention comprises:
It is preferable that the server computer includes a circulation route changing unit that changes a circulation route set for each document data in response to a request from the client computer.

Thus, it is possible to flexibly perform a process of directly transferring document data to a desired viewer by skipping some viewers, or inserting a new viewer at a desired position. It becomes possible.

Further, the document flow system of the present invention
The link information stored in the input box and output box storage areas of the client computer with symbols for symbolically representing the input box and output box displayed on the screen of the client computer by the server computer. It is preferable to include an icon control unit that changes the number according to the number of items.

Thus, for example, when there is a large amount of unreviewed document data, a design with a large stack of documents is used as a design representing the input box. For example, an approximate form of the document data stored in the input box and the output box is used. The amount can be visually grasped.

Further, the document flow system according to the present invention
A document flow in which user-specific image data can be attached to document data as if a date stamp or a seal were pressed on a form. In the system, the server computer includes a circulation document storage unit for storing document data to be circulated between the client computers, and image data unique to the client computer, which is attached to the document data as an approval mark of the client computer. Means for storing image data for performing the operation, and when the client computer instructs to seal the document data being viewed, attaches the image data as the approval mark of the client computer to the document data. Characterized by comprising a stamp of approval seal means.

In the document flow system according to the present invention, since the image data unique to the user can be attached to the document data in response to the request of the user, the approval action of each user can be visually represented in the document data being viewed. Becomes

Further, the document flow system of the present invention
It is preferable that the server computer includes an approval stamp canceling unit that receives and executes an instruction to delete the image data attached to the document data by the approval stamping unit only from the client computer.

This makes it possible to prevent forgery of approval, for example.

Further, the document flow system of the present invention
A document flow in which item data registered in advance by a user can be automatically embedded in a predetermined area on document data, and for that purpose, document data is circulated among a plurality of client computers via a server computer. In the system, the server computer comprises:
A user item data storage unit for storing item data unique to the client computer in combination with a data item name, and defining the document data when the batch entry to the document data being viewed is instructed from the client computer. And a batch entry means for automatically embedding the item data of the client computer stored in pairs with the data item name of the input area to be input into the input area.

In the document flow system according to the present invention, for any document data, if there are predetermined input data items in the document data, all of the input data items are registered in advance with item data unique to the user. Can be automatically and collectively embedded, so that the efficiency of the input operation of each user can be dramatically improved.

[0037]

An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a document flow system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 1, this document flow system is applied to a client-server model network system in which a server computer 10 and a plurality of client computers 20 are connected via a communication network 100. Using various functions provided by the server computer 10, each client computer 20 executes various forms processing including circulation of document data.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing functional blocks of the document flow system.

As shown in FIG. 2, the server computer 10 of the document flow system includes a login processing unit 11,
It includes a document management unit 12, a tray processing unit 13, a tool processing unit 14, and a folder processing unit 15, and data units of an account database 16 and a personal database 17. Each of the processing units is configured as software that is executed and controlled by a CPU included in the server computer 10, and each data unit is configured on a memory device included in the server computer 10. .

The login processing section 11 is responsible for connection procedures and the like when the client computer 20 uses the document flow system. For example, the login processing section 11 aggregates accounting information and the like according to the usage status for each client computer 20. It is managed by the account database 16.
When the connection procedure by the login processing unit 11 is completed, a work screen as shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the screen of each client computer 20.

On this work screen, user interface icons (a1, b1 to b5, c1, c1) symbolically representing each function provided by the server computer 10.
d1 to d2, etc.), and the user operates various icons with an input device such as a mouse, for example, to activate various functions and proceed with various forms including document data circulation. Go.

The document management unit 12 stores the icon a1
The document data storage function is provided to store the document data instructed to be stored by the client computer 20 in the personal database 17 or, conversely,
Document data instructed to be taken out from the client computer 20 is read from the personal database 17.

The tray processing unit 13 is mainly responsible for exchanging document data between the client computers 20, and includes an input box function represented by an icon b1, an output box function represented by an icon b2, and an icon b3. It provides a return box function represented by an outgoing history file function represented by an icon b4 and a trash can function represented by an icon b5.

The recycle bin function deletes document data instructed to be discarded from the client computer 20 from the personal database 17. Other functions are features of the present invention, and will be described later.

The tool processing section 14 is mainly responsible for editing document data, and provides a convenient function represented by the icon c1. This convenient function has a spray function, a sticky note function, a date stamp function, a calculator function, an address book function, and a seal function.

Among them, the sticky note function additionally attaches text data such as a memo to the document data, the calculator function executes a simple operation using a given numerical value, and the address book function performs, for example, The address of another client computer 20 used as the destination of the document data to be transmitted is managed by the personal database 17. Other functions are features of the present invention, and will be described later.

The folder processing section 15 provides a cabinet function represented by the icon d1 and a safe function represented by the icon d2, and these functions are features of the present invention. These will be described later.

Next, the functions of the present invention will be described for each processing unit.

(1) Folder Processing Unit First, the cabinet function and the safe function provided by the folder processing unit 15 will be described.

(A) Cabinet Function In this document flow system, the directory structure shown in FIG. The cabinet function manages blank template data having a predetermined layout and a destination route by using a shared directory associated with each directory structure so as to be incorporated into the directory structure. In response to a document creation instruction, new document data that is a copy of the template data is provided.

As shown in FIG. 5, the template data includes layout information (a) and destination route information (b).
The folder processing unit 15 displays the template data setting screen on the screen of the client computer 20 and stores the new template data in the above-described shared directory in accordance with the operation on the setting screen. Or update or delete existing template data stored in the shared directory.

The folder processing unit 15 displays a new document creation screen on which the template data stored in the shared directory is presented as an option on the screen of the client computer 20. When the use of the template data is instructed, a copy of the template data is automatically generated and stored in the working directory of the client computer 20.

The work directory is a directory for data exchange between the server computer 10 and the client computer 20. New document data stored in the work directory is transferred to the client computer 20. become.

For example, when template data of form 1 is selected from a plurality of template data of forms 1 to n in the shared directory shown in FIG. 4, the template of form 1 is selected as shown in FIG. Automatically creates a copy of the data and creates a working directory, chatpla.
Store in ce. The new document data stored in the chatplace is stored in the client computer 2
0 on the work screen, for example, in a document window (e1) as shown in FIG.

As a result, the user can obtain new document data as if an unfilled form is taken out of the cabinet, and the user does not inadvertently edit the template itself. Further, since new document data to which destination route information is added can be obtained, it is not necessary to set a destination when transmitting to another user.

(B) Safe Function The safe function is for setting, when instructed by the client computer 20 to store the document data in the safe, so that the other client computers 20 cannot retrieve the document data.

The instruction for storing the document data in the safe is, for example, after a predetermined icon (e2) arranged in the document window (e1) shown in FIG. This is performed by performing an operation to move to the safe function icon (d2) on the work screen while maintaining the selected state (so-called drag drop).

This instruction is sent to the client computer 2
0 to the server computer 10, the folder processing unit 15 stores the document data expanded in the document window (e1) in the personal database 17 so that the other client computers 20 cannot retrieve the document data. As a method for preventing other client computers 20 from taking out, for example, a flag indicating that the safe function is activated and identification data indicating which client computer 20 has activated the safe function are used as attribute information as a document. Various methods such as adding to data are possible. In this case, when an instruction to extract the document data is issued from the client computer 20, the document document unit 12 determines the extraction permission by referring to the attribute information.

Thus, the user can manage the document data as if the documents were stored in a safe.

(2) Tray Processing Unit Next, an input box function, an output box function, a return box function, and a delivery history file function provided by the tray processing unit 13 will be described.

In this document flow system, as shown in FIG. 5, the template data each has destination route information, and the document data duplicated from this template data also has this destination route information. .
An input box function provided by the tray processing unit 13;
The output box function, the return box function, and the delivery history file function execute transmission / reception of document data between client computers using the destination route information.

For example, when a user who has obtained new document data by the above-described cabinet function finishes its creation,
This time, an instruction to output the document data is issued.

This document data output instruction is performed by, for example, selecting a predetermined icon (e2) arranged in the document window (e1) shown in FIG. 7 with an input device such as a mouse, and then changing the selected state. The operation is performed by moving the icon to the icon (b2) for the output box function on the work screen while keeping the information (so-called drag drop).

This instruction is sent to the client computer 2
0 to the server computer 10, the tray processing unit 13 stores the document data expanded in the document window (e1) in the personal database 17, and outputs the output data for the output box in the directory for the client computer 20. The link information indicating the storage location of the document data is stored in the directory for the output history file.

At the same time, the tray processing unit 13 also stores a link indicating the storage location of the document data in the directory for the input box in the directory for the client computer 20 set for the next viewer in the destination route information. The information is stored (FIG. 8).

Therefore, the document data put in the output box in the client computer 20 of the transmission source is
At the same time, it is also entered in the input box of the destination client computer.

On the other hand, the source client computer 20 is instructed to take out the document data from the input box. The take-out instruction is made by first inputting the icon (d1) for the input box function by inputting a mouse or the like. Instruct selection on the device (so-called double-click, etc.).

This instruction is sent to the client computer 2
0 to the server computer 10, and the tray processing unit 13 displays the document data indicated by the link information stored in the directory for the input box in the directory for the client computer 20 on the work screen of the client computer 20. In the list.

Next, desired document data is selected and instructed from the list-displayed document data by an input device such as a mouse (so-called double-click).

This instruction is also sent to the client computer 2
0 to the server computer 10, the tray processing unit 13 reads out the selected and instructed document data based on the link information, and reads the
stored in the client computer 2
0, and at the same time, deletes the link information stored in the output box directory of the transmission source client computer 20 and the link information stored in the input box directory of the transmission destination client computer 20 (FIG. 9).

At this point, the transfer of the document data using the output box of the transmission source client computer 20 and the input box of the transmission source client computer 20 is completed.

When the destination client computer 20 which has taken out the document data from the input box outputs the document data to the next viewer, the document data is similarly put in the output box. Just operate.

As a result, the user can circulate the document data as if putting the form in and out of the input box and the output box installed on the desk.

In this document flow system, even after the document data is output by the output box function, the output cancellation is accepted until the document is taken out of the input box at the client computer 20 of the transmission destination.

The cancellation instruction is issued by extracting the document data from the output box, like the document data from the input box. Upon receiving the cancellation instruction, the tray processing unit 13 compares the link information of the document data stored in the directory for the output box of the client computer 20 of the transmission source and the directory for the output box of the client computer 20 of the transmission source. delete.

Thus, the user can cancel the circulation of the document data as if taking out the form from the output box.

Further, in this document flow system, after the document data (link information) is put in the output box, when the period designated by the user has elapsed, the document data (link information) is put in the input box of the transmission destination. ).

The specification of this period is performed, for example, via a setting screen for a user interface provided by the tray processing unit 13. And the tray processing unit 13
When this setting value is held and the document data (link information) is put in the output box, the system waits until the period indicated by this setting value elapses, and stores the document data (link information) in the input box of the transmission destination. ).

As a result, the user is given an opportunity to cancel circulation of the document data for at least the designated period.

Further, in this document flow system, when document data (link information) is put in an input box of any user, the absence of the document data in the output box is automatically notified each time the sender puts the document data in the output box. It has an automatic reply function to reply to

For example, when the automatic reply function is activated along with a long business trip, the user points the input box function icon (b1) on the work screen with an input device such as a mouse, and clicks a mouse button. By such a predetermined operation, an item list (so-called menu) is displayed to select and instruct the automatic reply function.

Upon receiving this instruction, the tray processing unit 13
Replaces the icon (b1) for the input box function on the work screen with the icon (b1 ') for the automatic reply function, and makes the user recognize that the automatic reply function is activated. Then, after receiving this instruction, the tray processing unit 13 sends the document data (link information) to the input computer every time the document data (link information) is put into the input box.
Notify your absence.

Thus, the transmission source user can immediately retrieve the document data remaining in the output box or change the transmission destination, and can transmit useless document data thereafter. Deterrence becomes possible.

Next, the return box function will be described.

For example, when the transmission destination client computer 20 that has taken out the document data from the input box finds an entry error in the document data, it outputs the document data to the next viewer as described above. If the document data is sent back to the transmission source instead of performing the process, an instruction to send back the document data is issued.

The instruction to send back the document data is made by, for example, selecting a predetermined icon (e2) arranged in the document window (e1) shown in FIG. 7 with an input device such as a mouse, and then changing the selected state. The operation is performed by moving the icon (b3) for the return box function on the work screen while holding the image (so-called drag drop).

This instruction is sent to the client computer 2
0 to the server computer 10, the tray processing unit 13 stores the link information indicating the storage position of the document data in the directory for outgoing history in the directory for the client computer 20, and stores the destination route information. The link information indicating the storage location of the document data is stored in the directory for the input box in the directory for the client computer 20 set as the transmission source viewer (FIG. 10).

Thus, the user can send the document data back to the transmission source as if the user puts the form in a return box installed on the desk.

Next, the output history function will be described.

In this document flow system, after browsing the document data, each user who has output the document data to the next viewer can refer to the circulation status of the document data. The function for realizing the reference of the circulation status is the output history file function.

As described above, when a user outputs document data to the next viewer, the link information of the document data is stored in the directory for the output history file of the client computer 20. The reference to the circulation status is performed by extracting the document data from the delivery history file (icon b4) so as to extract the document data from the input box described above.

When this reference instruction is received, the tray processing unit 1
3 examines the circulation status of the document data by referring to the output history file directory of each client computer 20 in the order indicated by the destination route information of the document data. Then, the result of this investigation is displayed, for example, as shown in FIG.

In the case shown in FIG. 11, the output history area (f1) for displaying the outgoing history and the form area (f2) for displaying the document data being circulated are provided. Can be checked at a glance. Note that the state of FIG. 11 indicates that the circulated business trip report and the same specification have been output to Yamada, the section chief.

The tray processing section 13 arranges an insert button (f3) and a direct transmission button (f4) in the exit history area (f1) of this screen. When the insert button (f3) is selected and instructed by an input device such as a mouse, the tray processing unit 13 inserts the third user between the adjacent users via the insert button (f3). Display the setting screen for setting.

That is, the destination route information copied from the template data is changed only for the document data. Then, when the user's insertion is instructed via the setting screen, the tray processing unit 13 updates the destination route information of the document data and changes the circulation route.

On the other hand, when the direct transmission button (f4) is selected by an input device such as a mouse, for example,
The tray processing unit 13 ignores the presence of an unviewed person in the middle and ignores the destination route of the document data so that the document data is directly transmitted from the last viewer to the user indicated by the direct transmission button (f4). The information is updated to change the circulation route, the document data (link information) is extracted from the input box of the first user among the unviewed users, and the user is displayed in the input box of the user indicated by the direct transmission button (f4). Executes storage of document data (link information).

Thus, the user can check the circulation status of the document data as if referring to the output history file, and can change the circulation route as needed.

Further, the tray processing unit 13 converts the symbols of the input box function icon (b1) and the output box function icon (b2) arranged on the work screen of each user into input box and output box icons. It is changed as shown in FIG. 12 according to the storage amount of the document data (link information) in the directory.

As a result, the user can visually grasp the amount of document data stored in the input box and the output box at a glance.

(3) Tool Processing Unit Next, the date stamp function, the seal function, and the spray function of the convenient functions provided by the tool processing unit 14 will be described.

(A) Date Stamp Function and Stamp Function In this document flow system, date stamp image data and seal image data unique to each client computer 20 are managed by the personal database 17. Then, when a date stamp or a seal is instructed in a state where the document data is developed on the work screen, the date stamp image data or the seal image data managed by the personal database 17 is pasted on the document data. . More specifically, the attribute information indicating the stamp location, the stamp image, and the user is stored in the personal database 17 in association with the document data (FIG. 13).

[0104] This seal instruction is performed by first selecting a convenient function icon (c1) on the work screen with an input device such as a mouse to display a function list, and further from the function list, a date stamp function or a seal. After selecting the function, the user performs the operation by pointing the stamped point in the expanded document data with the input device.

This instruction is sent to the client computer 2
0 to the server computer 10, the tool processing unit 14 acquires an address indicating the storage location of the date stamp image data or the seal stamp image data of the client computer 20, the coordinate information of the stamp location,
Stored as attribute information together with D. Further, in the case of a date stamp, the date held by the system is also stored, and is embedded in a predetermined position in the date stamp image data at the time of display.

This document flow system accepts the cancellation of the seal only from the client computer 20 of the user ID stored as the attribute information. This cancellation instruction is also displayed by selecting the icon (c1) for a convenient function on the work screen with an input device such as a mouse and displaying a function list.
Further, the function is executed by selecting a date stamp function or a seal function from the function list and performing a predetermined canceling operation. Upon receiving this instruction, the tool processing unit 14 deletes the coordinate information, address, and user ID stored as attribute information.

As a result, the user can express the approval act on the document data to be viewed as if pressing a seal.

(B) Spray Function The spray function is an input area for items in which the user has previously registered data on arbitrary items and has registered data on document data developed on the work screen. When the data exists, the data is automatically and collectively embedded in the input area. Specifically, spray data in which item names and data are paired are stored in the personal database 17, and when a batch entry instruction is given, this is an input area present in the document data being developed, The data is embedded in an input area that matches the item name of the registered data (FIG. 14).

This batch entry instruction is performed by selecting a convenient function icon (c1) on the work screen with an input device such as a mouse to display a function list, and further selecting a spray function from the function list. Performed by This instruction is notified from the client computer 20 to the server computer 10, and the tool processing unit 14 determines the item name of the input area being developed and the client computer 2
Match the data item name registered for 0,
The registration data of the matched item is embedded in the input area.

For example, in the example shown in FIG. 15, the user who has registered spray data 1 has the name, affiliation and employee number automatically embedded, and the user who has registered spray data 2 has the name, address and telephone number. It will be embedded automatically.

As a result, the user can write data registered as if spraying on a form at an appropriate place.

[0112]

As described above in detail, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide the user with a copy of the template document data as if taking out the form from the cabinet. Can be updated, and the user can have a real feeling of the form processing.

Further, since it is possible to provide a user with a copy of the template document data in which a circulation route is set, such as a form in which a circulation destination is previously entered, for example, a document having a predetermined approval route can be provided. With respect to data and the like, it is not necessary to set a destination when each user who is an approver transfers the data to the next viewer.

Further, since the document data being viewed is set to be prohibited from being viewed by another user at the request of the user, as if the documents were stored in a safe,
A storage management of document data can be performed while giving a user a work space and a real feeling in a conventional form processing.

Further, since document data is transmitted / received to / from other users as if the form is circulated by putting the user in and out of the input box, output box and return box installed on the desk of each individual. It is possible to execute circulation of document data while giving the user a work space and a real feeling in a conventional form processing.

Further, it is possible to make it easy for each user including an issuer to check the circulation status of document data as if referring to a delivery history file installed on a desk.

Further, it is possible to flexibly perform transfer of document data directly to a desired viewer by skipping some viewers, or insertion of a new viewer at a desired position. And

Further, since the image data unique to the user can be attached to the document data in response to the user's request, the approval action of each user can be visually represented in the document data being viewed.

For any document data, if there are predetermined input data items in the document data, item data unique to the user registered in advance for all of the input data items is automatically collected. Since it is possible to embed the information in each user, it is possible to dramatically improve the efficiency of the input operation of each user.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a document flow system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary view showing functional blocks of the document flow system of the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary view showing a work screen of the document flow system of the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is an exemplary view showing a directory structure constructed in a personal database for each client computer by the document flow system of the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary view for explaining the configuration of template data in the document flow system of the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is an exemplary view for explaining a cabinet function provided by the folder processing unit of the document flow system according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary view showing a document window displayed on a work screen of the document flow system of the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary view for explaining an output box function provided by a tray processing unit of the document flow system of the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is an exemplary view for explaining an input box function provided by a tray processing unit of the document flow system according to the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary view for explaining a return box function provided by the tray processing unit of the document flow system of the embodiment.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary view showing a circulation status display screen displayed by a delivery history function provided by a tray processing unit of the document flow system of the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary view for explaining icon display control by a tray processing unit of the document flow system of the embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a convenience function (date stamp function and seal function) provided by the tool processing unit of the document flow system according to the embodiment.
FIG.

FIG. 14 is an exemplary view for explaining a convenient function (spray function) provided by a tool processing unit of the document flow system according to the embodiment.

FIG. 15 is an exemplary view showing an example of starting a convenient function (spray function) provided by the tool processing unit of the document flow system according to the embodiment;

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 10 server computer 11 login processing unit 12 document management unit 13 tray processing unit 14 tool processing unit 15 folder processing unit 16 account database 17 personal database 20 client computer 100 communication network

Claims (15)

[Claims] 1. A document flow system for circulating document data between a plurality of client computers via a server computer, wherein the server computer stores unfilled template document data having a predetermined format. Storage means; a model document presenting means for presenting the template document data stored in the model document storing means to the client computer as an option; and A model flow providing means for automatically generating a copy of the model document data and providing the same to the client computer when instructed to create a new document using the document data. . 2. A document flow system for circulating document data among a plurality of client computers via a server computer, wherein the server computer transmits circulation path information indicating a predetermined format and a transfer order between the client computers. A model document storage unit for storing model document data in an unfilled state, and a circulation route setting unit for setting circulation route information of the model document data in response to a request from the client computer. Document flow system. 3. A document flow system for circulating document data between a plurality of client computers via a server computer, wherein the server computer includes: a circulating document storage unit for storing document data circulated between the client computers; A document storage unit that, when instructed to store the document data being viewed from the client computer, sets the document data to a viewing-prohibited state except for the client computer. 4. A document flow system for circulating document data between a plurality of client computers via a server computer, wherein the server computer includes: a circulating document storage unit for storing document data circulated between the client computers; Input / output box allocating means for allocating an input box storage area and an output box storage area to each of the client computers; and a first client computer instructed to store the browsed document data in the output box. At this time, the link information indicating the storage position of the document data is stored in the output box storage area of the first client computer, and the link information for the input box of the second client computer set to the next viewer is set. Document transmission means for storing the link information in a storage area; Document flow system characterized by comprising a. 5. The server computer, when instructed to retrieve document data from an input box by the second client computer, stores the document data in an input box storage area of the second client computer. The second information obtained from the stored link information.
And a document receiving means for deleting the link information stored in each storage area for the output box of the first client computer and for the input box of the second client computer. 5. The document flow system according to claim 4, wherein: 6. The server computer instructs the first client computer to extract the document data from the output box before receiving the instruction from the second client computer to extract the document data from the input box. Document transmission canceling means for deleting the link information stored in each of the storage areas for the output box of the first client computer and the input box of the second client computer when the operation is performed. The document flow system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein 7. The server computer, when instructed by the first client computer to store the browsed document data in an output box, stores the second data in the output box.
A transmission suspension period setting unit for setting a period during which processing for storing link information indicating a storage position of the document data in a storage area for an input box of the client computer is suspended. Or the document flow system according to 6. 8. The server computer, when instructed by the client computer to reply to the absence of the source of the document data stored in the input box, to set the client computer to an automatic reply output state. Reply setting means, wherein the document transfer means includes absence notification means for notifying the first client computer of absence when the second client computer is in an automatic reply output state. The document flow system according to claim 4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein 9. The server computer, wherein: a return box allocating means for allocating a storage area for a return box to each of the client computers; and an instruction to store document data browsed from the second client computer in the return box. 5. The system according to claim 4, further comprising a return unit for storing link information indicating a storage position of the document data in a storage area for the input box of the first client computer when the input is performed.
The document flow system according to 5, 6, 7 or 8. 10. The server computer, an output history file allocating unit for allocating a storage area for an output history file to each of the client computers, and storing the document data browsed from the client computer in an output box or a return box. When instructed, the output history storage means for storing the link information indicating the storage location of the document data in the storage area for the output history file of the client computer; and When the circulation status is inquired, whether or not link information indicating the storage location of the document data is stored in the storage area for the outgoing history files of all the client computers designated in the circulation route of the document data By investigating the previous 10. The document flow system according to claim 9, further comprising: a circulation status notifying unit that obtains a circulation status of the document data and notifies the client computer of the circulation status. 11. The server computer according to claim 4, further comprising: a circulation path changing unit configured to change a circulation path set in the document data being circulated in response to a request from the client computer.
The document flow system according to 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10. 12. The server computer, wherein a symbol for symbolically representing the input box and the output box to be displayed on the screen of the client computer is stored in a storage area for the input box and the output box of the client computer. 12. The document flow system according to claim 4, further comprising an icon control unit that changes the number of pieces of link information according to the number of pieces of the link information. 13. A document flow system for circulating document data between a plurality of client computers via a server computer, wherein the server computer includes: a circulating document storage unit for storing document data circulated between the client computers; Approval mark storage means for storing image data which is image data unique to the client computer and which is to be attached to document data as an approval mark of the client computer; and a seal for the document data being viewed from the client computer. A document flow system comprising: an approval stamp and stamping means for attaching image data as an approval stamp of the client computer to the document data when instructed. 14. The server computer further comprises an approval stamp canceling means for receiving and executing only an instruction to delete the image data attached to the document data by the approval stamping means from the client computer. 14. The document flow system according to claim 13, wherein , 15. A document flow system for circulating document data among a plurality of client computers via a server computer, wherein the server computer stores item data unique to the client computer in pairs with data item names. Item data storage means, when batch entry to the document data being viewed is instructed from the client computer, the client computer of the client computer stored in pair with the data item name of the input area defined in the document data And a batch entry means for automatically embedding item data in the input area thereof.