JP2003044734A - System, method and software for processing point and method for controlling client system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize an excellent sales promotion effect by diversifying points uses. SOLUTION: A point conversion registering part 3 receives information of at least either transactions or the numerical value of given points about a member from a proprietor system J used by participating proprietors via the Internet N and gives prescribed standard points to the member on the basis of the information. Information of balance, etc., about standard points is recorded in a point management file 5. A collation receiving part 6 corresponds to collation of information including balance about the standard points for a member terminal C via the Internet N. An exchange reception processing part 7 displays prize candidates on the member terminal C and receives an exchange request for a prize about the standard points from the member terminal C. A shipping instruction or the like outputting part 8 outputs prescribed information for exchange to a prescribed output destination in the case the exchange reception processing part 7 receives the exchange request.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to improvement of information processing technology relating to privilege points, and is to realize an excellent sales promotion effect by diversifying the use of points.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, various privilege point systems have been operated to promote sales in accordance with the sophistication of the economy and intensification of competition. The reward point system gives each customer such as a company or an organization points according to the use of a product or service, and when the predetermined points are accumulated, they can be exchanged for a predetermined prize such as a gift or service. It is a thing. Examples include points given by credit companies to credit card users according to the amount used, and mileage programs for airlines. These privilege points system have effects such as avoiding excessive price competition and promoting continuous use with the motivation to win prizes by accumulating points.

[0003]

[Problems to be Solved by the Invention] However, conventionally, with respect to the point system and its points, various companies that are issuers have various types and forms of issuers,
Since each company such as an organization was operated / issued / managed independently of each other, the compatibility and distribution of points were lacking,
There was a problem that the sales promotion effect was poor. In particular, when one customer has small points distributed in different point systems, even if the points are aggregated by accumulating, it is not enough for the required points for the individual prize. There were many

Regarding this point, a service for exchanging points of different businesses on the Internet has been proposed, but this type of conventional technology enables aggregation to a specific point, such as gift exchange. As in the past, there was a limit to the number of points that can be exercised, depending on the award established by each business operator and the fixed number of required points.

The present invention has been proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and its purpose is to diversify the use of points to realize an excellent sales promotion effect. And a method, a point processing software, and a client system control method.

[0006]

In order to achieve the above object, a point processing system according to claim 1 is a means for registering a subscribing enterprise and its members, and a computer system used by the subscribing enterprise via a communication network. When a transaction related to the member or at least one of the points to be awarded is received, a means for giving a predetermined standard point to the member based on the information, and a communication network for the client system used by the member Via the means for responding to inquiries regarding information including the balance regarding the standard points, means for accepting a request for redemption of the standard points via the communication network from the client system used by the member, and the request for redemption. In that case, means for outputting predetermined information for the exchange, Serial via the communication network to the computer system using the subscriber operator, characterized by comprising a means for providing information for payment for said exchange.

The point processing method of claim 8 is the method of claim 1.
From the viewpoint of the invention as a method, the process of registering a subscribing business operator and its members and the computer system used by the subscribing business company via a communication network,
When receiving information about at least one of the transaction related to the member or the number of points to be given, a process of giving a predetermined standard point to the member based on the information and a client system used by the member via a communication network. , A process of responding to an inquiry for information including a balance regarding the standard points, a process of receiving a request for exchange of an award for the standard points from a client system used by the member via a communication network, and a case of receiving the exchange request. , A process of outputting predetermined information for the redemption to a predetermined output destination, and a process of providing information for settlement of the redemption via a communication network to a computer system used by the subscribing operator. It is characterized by including.

The point processing software of claim 15 captures the inventions of claims 1 and 8 from the viewpoint of computer software. By controlling a server system that is a computer, the point processing software can When registration is made and information on at least one of the transaction or the number of points awarded for the member is received from the computer system used by the subscribing operator via the communication network, predetermined standard points are given to the member based on the information. The client system used by the member is allowed to inquire about information including the balance regarding the standard points via the communication network, and the client system used by the member exchanges the standard points for an award via the communication network. Request accepted, before When a redemption request is accepted, the predetermined information for the redemption is output to a predetermined output destination, and the computer system used by the subscribing operator is provided with the information for settlement of the redemption via a communication network. It is characterized by

[0009] In these aspects, the privilege of a plurality of subscribing businesses is centrally issued and managed as a predetermined standard point, so that the customer's original privilege can be enjoyed without waste by consolidating the privilege points. , The exercise of points can be diversified without depending on the system of a specific business operator, and an excellent sales promotion effect can be realized. In addition, standard points that can be commonly used on a communication network typified by the Internet enhance the distribution of privilege points and improve convenience and customer satisfaction. In addition, for point issuers such as companies and organizations, outsourcing the point settlement, award planning, delivery, shipping, etc., which was conventionally done individually, to a system on the Internet like an agency center Can be reduced.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the point processing system according to the first aspect, the issued privilege unique to the subscribing business operator is provided from the computer system used by the subscribing business operator or the client system used by the member thereof via the communication network. When a conversion request regarding points is received, a means for converting the privilege points related to the conversion request into the standard points according to a predetermined conversion rule is provided.

The invention of claim 9 is the invention of claim 2 which is grasped from the viewpoint of a method. In the point processing method of claim 8, the computer system used by the subscribing business or the client system used by its members. When a conversion request regarding the issued reward points unique to the subscriber is received from the
It is characterized by including processing for converting the privilege points relating to the conversion request into the standard points according to a predetermined conversion rule.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the inventions of the second and ninth aspects are grasped from the viewpoint of computer software. In the point processing software according to the fifteenth aspect, the server system is used by the subscribing business operator. When a request for conversion of issued privilege points unique to the subscribing company is received from the computer system or a client system used by its members via the communication network, the privilege points related to the conversion request are converted into the standard according to a predetermined conversion rule. Characterized by converting to points.

In these aspects, even if the subscribing company has already used its own point system or its privilege points, the points can be converted based on a predetermined conversion rule and the processing such as purchase, accumulation and settlement based on the points can be performed. The present invention facilitates participation and transition, and expands the scope and distribution of standard points.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the point processing system according to the first or second aspect, a client system used by the member is provided via the communication network,
It is characterized in that the amount equivalent to the shortage is calculated and displayed for the prize of the required points exceeding the balance of the standard points of the member, and the exchange request for the prize is accepted on condition that the amount is settled.

The invention of claim 10 is obtained by considering the invention of claim 3 as a method. In the point processing method of claim 8 or 9, the client system used by the member is transmitted via the communication network. , A shortfall equivalent amount is calculated and displayed for an award of required points exceeding the balance of the standard points of the member, and a request for exchange for the award is accepted on condition that the amount is settled.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the inventions of the third and tenth aspects are grasped from the viewpoint of computer software. In the point processing software according to the fifteenth or sixteenth aspect, the member is used in the server system. Through the communication network, the client system calculates and displays the amount corresponding to the shortfall for the required points award exceeding the standard point balance of the member, and requests the exchange for the award, subject to the settlement of the amount. It is characterized by accepting.

The invention of claim 20 is the invention of claims 3, 10 and 1.
The invention of No. 7 is grasped from the viewpoint of processing on the client system side, and a member sends an award exchange request for standard points, which are common privilege points generated respectively by using a plurality of subscribing businesses. In the method of controlling the client system for calculating the award amount of the required points exceeding the standard point balance of the member, the amount corresponding to the shortfall is calculated and displayed, and the exchange request for the award is provided on condition that the amount is settled. Is displayed on the client system via the communication network.

In these modes, even when the point balance is not enough for the desired prize, it is possible to win the prize by paying the presented shortage amount with a credit card or the like. As a result, the benefits can be utilized without waste, the user's willingness to earn points is improved, and sales can be promoted when the prize is regarded as a product.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the point processing system according to the third aspect, for the prize whose standard point balance of the member has reached a predetermined reference value lower than the required points, the shortfall equivalent amount is displayed. It is characterized by doing.

The invention of claim 11 is obtained by considering the invention of claim 4 as a method, and in the point processing method of claim 10, the standard point balance of the member is lower than the required point. It is characterized in that the amount of money corresponding to the shortage is displayed for the prize that has reached the reference value.

[0021] In these modes, by displaying the amount corresponding to the shortfall for the prize that has reached a predetermined reference value such as more than half of the required points, the exchange of points and prizes can be clearly distinguished from mere purchase, and the points can be Encouragement of usage of the products and services of the participating business operators.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the point processing system according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the number of redemption requests at each time point and the redemption request are exchanged with respect to the client system used by the member via the communication network. It is characterized in that it is provided with means for presenting conditions for reducing required points due to an increase in the number of requests, and also for collecting exchange requests.

The invention of claim 12 is obtained by considering the invention of claim 5 as a method, and in the point processing method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, the client system used by the member is a communication network. It is characterized in that the number of redemption requests at each time point and the condition that the required points are lowered by the increase in the number of redemption requests are presented and the redemption requests are solicited.

The invention of claim 18 is obtained by considering the inventions of claims 5 and 12 as a computer software. In the point processing software according to any one of claims 15 to 17, the server system comprises:
It is characterized in that the client system used by the member is presented with the number of redemption requests at each time point and the condition that the required points are reduced due to the increase in the number of redemption requests, through the communication network, and also recruiting the redemption requests. .

The invention of claim 21 is the invention of claims 5, 12, and 1.
The invention of 8 is grasped from the viewpoint of processing on the client system side, and a member sends an award exchange request for standard points, which are common privilege points generated respectively by using a plurality of subscribing businesses. In the method of controlling the client system, the number of redemption requests at each time point and the condition that the required points are lowered due to the increase in the number of redemption requests are presented, and one or more of A screen is displayed on the client system via a communication network.

[0026] In these modes, according to the joint purchase, the required points are lowered when the demand for the exchange with the same prize increases, so that the cost reduction effect by the joint exchange utilizing the merit of scale is utilized. In addition, since a sense of solidarity and a sense of achievement are fostered among the users, the effect of promoting the use of the subscribers and standard points can be obtained.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the point processing system according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the number of points in the member's point balance from the client system used by the member via the communication network, and A means for moving the designated number of standard points to the designated destination member when notified of the destination member designated by the member of the subscribing business Is characterized by.

The invention of claim 13 is obtained by considering the invention of claim 6 as a method. In the point processing method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, the communication is performed from the client system used by the member. When the quantity in the point balance of the member and the destination member designated from the members of any of the participating businesses are notified via the network, the standard points of the designated quantity are It is characterized in that it includes a process of moving the member to a designated destination.

The invention of claim 19 is obtained by considering the inventions of claims 6 and 13 as a view point of computer software. In the point processing software according to any one of claims 15 to 18, the server system comprises:
When the client system used by the member notifies, via the communication network, the number of points in the member's point balance and the destination member designated from the members of any of the participating businesses, It is characterized in that a specified number of standard points are moved to a specified destination member.

In these modes, by moving points to a desired user like bank remittance, it is possible to apply to settlement between individuals such as head-cutting for food and drink, etc., and successful bid for Internet auction. .

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the point processing system according to the sixth aspect, a message is stored from the source member to the destination member via the client system used by the member and the communication network. It is characterized in that it comprises means for transmitting, a means for allowing the destination member to select whether or not to accept the movement, and means for notifying the source member of whether or not the movement is accepted.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the invention of the seventh aspect is grasped from the viewpoint of a method. In the point processing method according to the thirteenth aspect, the source of movement is transferred via a client system used by a member and a communication network. A process of depositing a message from a member and transmitting the message to the destination member, a process of allowing the destination member to select whether or not to accept the move, and a process of determining whether or not the move is accepted to the source member. And a process of notifying.

In these modes, the destination can easily know the purpose of the movement on the spot by transmitting the message from the source to the destination, and the destination side can select whether to accept or not. In addition to respecting the intention of the destination, the destination is notified whether or not it has been accepted, so that confirmation of the source can be facilitated. Thus, by respecting the convenience of both the source and the destination, the standard points are moved with excellent usability.

[0034]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Next, embodiments of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments") will be specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the present embodiment can be realized by controlling a computer with software. However, since various concrete configuration modes of hardware and software in this case are conceivable, the present invention and the present embodiment will be configured below. Description will be made using virtual circuit blocks that realize each function.

[1. Configuration] The present embodiment is a point processing system S shown in FIG. 1, and a computer system (hereinafter referred to as “enterprise system”) J used by each subscribing business operator through the Internet N which is a communication network, and the above-mentioned subscribing service. It is a server system that performs information processing regarding privilege points on behalf of each subscribing company by communicating with a client system (hereinafter referred to as “member terminal”) C used by each member of the business. The member terminal C is a mobile phone with Internet connection function or P
It is an HS terminal device, a PDA (so-called mobile terminal), a personal computer (personal computer), a workstation, or the like.

As shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 1, this point processing system includes the following parts. First, the business and member registration unit 1 is means for registering a subscribing business and its members in the business and member file 2. In addition, the point conversion registration unit 3 uses the business system J
Means for receiving at least information on a transaction or the number of points to be given relating to the member from the Internet via the Internet N, and, when receiving such information, to give predetermined standard points to the member based on the information. Is. Information such as balance about such standard points,
It is recorded in the point management file 5.

The inquiry accepting unit 6 is means for answering the inquiry for information including the balance regarding the standard points to the member terminal C via the Internet N. Further, the exchange acceptance processing unit 7 is means for displaying a prize candidate on the member terminal C via the Internet N and accepting an exchange request for an award from the member terminal C for the standard point.

When the exchange acceptance processing unit 7 accepts the exchange request, the shipping instruction output unit 8 outputs predetermined information for the exchange to a predetermined output destination such as a printer in the shipping department. It is a means. Further, the settlement unit 9 is means for providing the business operator system J with information for settlement about the exchange via the Internet N.

Further, the already-acquired point receiving unit 10 receives a conversion request regarding the issued privilege points unique to the subscribing company from the business system J or the member terminal C via the Internet N, and issues such a conversion request. When it is received, it is a means for converting the privilege points related to the conversion request into the standard points according to a predetermined conversion rule.

Further, the shortage etc. processing unit 11 makes the shortfall equivalent amount for the prize of the required points exceeding the standard point balance of the member via the Internet N to the member terminal C through the exchange acceptance processing unit 7. It is means for calculating and displaying, and accepting a request for exchange for the prize, on condition that the amount of money is settled. In addition, the shortage processing unit 11
Is configured to display the amount corresponding to the shortfall for the prize whose standard point balance of the member has reached a predetermined reference value lower than the required points. Information regarding the shortfall adjustment by a credit card or the like is recorded in the shortfall adjustment file 12.

Further, the joint exchange section 13 presents to the member terminal C via the Internet N the number of exchange requests at each time point for a prize and the condition that the required points can be reduced due to the increase in the number of exchange requests, and the exchange can also be performed. It is a means of soliciting requests.

Further, the point movement processing unit 14 uses the member terminal C via the Internet N to determine the number of points in the member's point balance and the destination member designated by any of the members of the subscribing business. Is a means for accepting the designation of, and moving the designated number of standard points to the designated destination member. Also, the message processing unit 1
Reference numeral 5 is a means for depositing a message from the source member and transmitting the message to the destination member via the member terminal C and the Internet N, and whether or not to accept the transfer to the destination member. Is a means for selecting, and a means for notifying the member of the transfer source whether or not the transfer has been received.

Further, although the structure of the business operator system J for each subscribing business operator is arbitrary, it is conceivable that the business operator system J is provided with the following elements. That is, the sales information transmission unit J
Reference numeral 3 is a portion for transmitting at least one of information on the transaction regarding the member or the number of points to be awarded to the point conversion registration unit 3 of the point processing system S via the Internet N. Further, the already-acquired point processing unit J10 is a part for transmitting a conversion request regarding the issued privilege points unique to the subscribing company to the already-acquired point receiving unit 10 of the point processing system S via the Internet N.

The copy file J5 is a means for storing what kind of information about new or existing points is transmitted from the sales information transmitting section J3 or the already issued point processing section J10 to the point processing system. . The settlement unit J9 is means for receiving information for settlement of standard points exchanged for a prize from the settlement unit 9 of the point processing system S via the Internet N.

[2. Operation] The present embodiment configured as described above operates as follows.

[2-1. Registration of business operator and member] In the present embodiment, for business operators and members who use standard points, the business operator and member registration unit 1 registers in advance the business operator and member file 2 as a business operator and its members. Receive. Here, the subscribing company is a company that issues the standard points by itself or entrusts the issuance of the standard points. In addition, the login ID, password, balance of standard points, and increase / decrease history are managed for each registered member.

[2-2. Addition of standard points] When standard points are added to members, standard points are newly added by the use of products and services of the subscribing business, and existing points are transferred from the subscribing business. There is.

In the former case (new), the sales information transmitting unit J3 of the business enterprise system J registers, via the Internet N, at least one piece of information on the transaction regarding the member or the number of points to be given, by converting the points into the point processing system S. The point conversion / registration section 3 which has transmitted such information to the section 3 and has received such information gives a predetermined standard point to the member based on the information. Information such as the balance and increase / decrease history relating to such standard points is recorded in the point management file 5.

In the latter case (transfer), the conversion request regarding the issued privilege points unique to the subscribing company is issued by the member terminal C or the already issued point processing section J1 of the business system J.
From 0 to the existing point receiving unit 10 of the point processing system S via the Internet N. in this case,
The already-acquired point receiving unit 10 that has received such a conversion request
Converts the privilege points related to the conversion request into the standard points according to a predetermined conversion rule such as a rate for each business.

As described above, a message transmitted from the sales etc. information transmitting unit J3 or the already issued point processing unit J10 to the point processing system about a new or already issued point is referred to as an acquired message. That is, FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an outline of the processing procedure in the present embodiment, and in the point processing system S, as shown in FIG.
Corresponding to the reception of the acquired telegram (step 01), standard point addition processing is performed (step 02). In addition, the file J
It is stored in 5 and is used for later confirmation.

[2-3. Inquiry and Redemption Request] By accessing a predetermined website provided by the point processing system S, the member can inquire about standard points and exchange for a prize. That is, the inquiry receiving unit 6 responds to the member terminal C via the Internet N to inquire about information such as balance and increase / decrease history regarding standard points (step 03).

In this case, the customer accesses the website from the member terminal C through the Internet N, logs in by inputting a previously given ID and password, and uses his or her web browser to obtain his or her current point balance and increase / decrease history. To confirm. For example, in the example of FIG. 3, the history of standard points is in the column R1 and the current balance is in the column R2.
Is displayed, and the process can be selected with any of the buttons B1.

Further, the exchange acceptance processing section 7 displays a prize candidate on the member terminal C via the Internet N and accepts an award exchange request for the standard point from the member terminal C (step 04). For example, in the screen example of FIG. 4, the required number of points for each prize is displayed in the field R3, and the exchange for the prize is accepted through the input fields F1, F2 and the button B2. In addition to the exchange for a prize, as one mode or another mode, the standard points may be used for shopping in a shopping mall constructed as an Internet website.

Further, when the exchange acceptance processing unit 7 accepts and confirms the exchange request (step 07), the shipping instruction output unit 8 outputs a shipping instruction and a slip therefor as predetermined information for the exchange. (Step 0
8) Based on this, the prize is promptly dispatched from the shipping department (Fig. 1).

[2-4. Insufficiency Settlement] In addition, in the present embodiment, in the present embodiment, the insufficiency for the required points can be replenished by payment by a credit card or the like. In this case, the shortage processing unit 11
Calculates the shortage equivalent amount for the prize of required points exceeding the balance of the standard points of the member via the Internet N to the member terminal C, and as shown in the column R4 of FIG. Display (Step 0
4) Accepting a request for exchange for the prize, subject to the settlement of the amount.

Further, the deficit processing unit 11 displays the deficit amount corresponding to the prize whose standard point balance of the member has reached a predetermined reference value lower than the required points. Information regarding the shortfall adjustment by a credit card or the like is recorded in the shortfall adjustment file 12.

[2-5. Joint Exchange] In the present embodiment, by exchanging a joint exchange person for the same prize, that is, a joint applicant on the website, the exchange with the prize with a smaller number of points is realized (steps 05 and 06). In this case, the member may apply for the existing recruitment project,
Further, the members themselves may be able to start recruiting other co-exchangers. In any case, the joint exchange unit 13
For the prize, the number of redemption requests at each time point and the condition that the required points are lowered due to the increase in the number of redemption requests are presented to the member terminal C and the redemption requests are solicited. For example, in the example of FIG. 5, the prize, the current number of people requesting redemption and the required number of points, the number of people and the required number of points as the next price reduction condition are displayed for each row in the table format, and the application button B3 can be applied. is there.

[2-6. Transfer of Points] In the present embodiment, standard points can be transferred to other members. In this case, the point movement processing unit 14 transfers the number of points in the member's point balance from the member terminal C via the Internet N and the destination member designated by one of the members of any of the subscribing businesses. The designation is accepted, and the standard points of the designated quantity are moved to the designated destination member according to the designation.

When moving points, the source member can attach a message, and the destination member can select whether or not to accept the transfer. The selection result is notified to the source member. It That is, the message processing unit 15 deposits a message from the above-mentioned member of the transfer source via the member terminal C and the Internet N, transmits the message to the above-mentioned member of the transfer destination, and accepts the transfer to the member of the transfer destination. Whether or not the transfer is accepted is notified to the member of the transfer source.

For example, in the example of FIG. 6, the number of points relating to the movement is designated in the input field F3, the member of the destination is designated in the input field F4, and the attached message is designated in the entry field F5, and the movement is executed by the button B4. is there.

[2-7. Settlement] In addition, as for standard points disposed of by being exchanged for prizes or being moved to other members as described above, the point processing system S
The information for settlement is transmitted from the settlement unit 9 of the above to the settlement unit J9 of the business operator system J via the Internet N, and the payment is performed between the subscribing business operator and the operator of the point processing system (step 09). . A message of such information will be called a usage message.

The acquired telegram and the used telegram are exchanged in real time. Examples of information items constituting these data formats include common elements such as a telegram header, a company ID, and a member ID, In the acquired message, the acquisition date / time, the number of points acquired, the expiration date, etc. can be considered, and in the usage message, the usage date / time, the number of points used, etc. can be considered.

Although the specific contents of the information for settlement are arbitrary, for example, it is conceivable that the information regarding the shortage settled by a credit card or the like in exchange can be read from the shortage settlement file 12 and included.

[3. Effect] As described above, in the present embodiment, by centrally issuing and managing the benefits of a plurality of subscribing businesses as predetermined standard points, the customer's original benefits can be enjoyed without waste by aggregating the benefit points. Not only that, the exercise of points can be diversified without depending on the system of a specific business operator, and an excellent sales promotion effect can be realized. In addition, standard points that can be commonly used on a communication network typified by the Internet enhance the distribution of privilege points and improve convenience and customer satisfaction. In addition, for point issuers such as companies and organizations, outsourcing the point settlement, award planning, delivery, shipping, etc., which was conventionally done individually, to a system on the Internet like an agency center Can be reduced.

Further, in the present embodiment, even if the subscribing company has already used its own point system or its reward points, the points are converted according to a predetermined conversion rule and the processing such as purchase, accumulation, and settlement based on the points is converted. This facilitates participation and transition of the present invention, and expands the scope of application of standard points and the distribution.

Further, in the present embodiment, even if the point balance is not enough for the desired prize, it is possible to win the prize by paying the presented shortage amount with a credit card or the like. As a result, the benefits can be utilized without waste, the user's willingness to earn points is improved, and sales can be promoted when the prize is regarded as a product.

Further, in the present embodiment, by displaying the amount corresponding to the shortage for the prize which has reached the predetermined reference value such as more than half of the required points, the exchange of the points and the prize is clearly distinguished from the simple purchase. Encouragement of use of products and services of the subscribing business that bring points.

Further, in this embodiment, according to the joint purchase,
If the number of exchange requests for the same prize increases, the required points will be reduced, and the cost reduction effect of the joint exchange utilizing the merit of scale will be utilized. In addition, since a sense of solidarity and a sense of achievement are fostered among the users, the effect of promoting the use of the subscribers and standard points can be obtained.

Further, in the present embodiment, by moving points to a desired user like bank transfer, it is possible to apply to settlement between individuals, such as head-cutting of food and drink bills, Internet auction winning bids and the like. Becomes

Further, in the present embodiment, by transmitting a message from the source to the destination, the destination can easily know the purpose of the movement on the spot, and whether or not to accept is selected by the destination. By doing so, not only the intention of the destination is respected, but also the source is notified of whether or not it has been accepted, which facilitates confirmation of the source. Thus, by respecting the convenience of both the source and the destination, the standard points are moved with excellent usability.

[4. Other Embodiments] The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and includes other embodiments as illustrated below. For example, with respect to the standard points, the name and unit, the conversion standard with other points and the amount equivalent to the shortage, the contents to be inquired, the procedure of the exchange request and the exchange request, etc. are free.

[0072]

As described above, according to the present invention, there are provided a point processing system and method, a point processing software and a client system control method which realize an excellent sales promotion effect by diversifying the exercise of points. It becomes possible to do.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display for inquiring points in the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a screen display example for selecting an award in the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display regarding collective exchange in the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display regarding point movement according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols] S ... Point processing system 1 ... Business and Member Registration Department 2 ... Business and member file 3 ... Point conversion registration section 5 ... Point management file 6 ... Inquiry reception section 7 ... Exchange acceptance processing unit 8 ... Output section for shipping instructions, etc. 9 ... Payment Department 10 ... Existing point receiving section 11 ... Shortage processing unit 12 ... Shortfall payment file 13 ... Joint exchange department 14 ... Point movement processing unit 15 ... Message processing unit J: Business system J3 ... Sales information transmission unit J5 ... copy file J9 ... Payment Department J10 ... Existing point processing unit C ... Member terminal N ... Internet

   ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    (72) Inventor Akira Shimizu             5-2 Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 1 Stock             Within Orient Corporation (72) Inventor Hiroaki Ito             5-2 Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 1 Stock             Company Orient Corporation Legal Department             With

Claims (21)

[Claims] 1. A means for registering a subscribing business operator and its members, and a case where at least one of the transaction and the number of points awarded for the member is received from a computer system used by the subscribing business company via a communication network. , Means for giving predetermined standard points to the member based on the information, means for responding to an inquiry for information including balance regarding the standard points via a communication network to a client system used by the member, Means for accepting a request for redemption of the standard points from the client system to be used via a communication network; means for outputting predetermined information for the redemption when the request for redemption is accepted; Via the communication network for the computer system used by , Point processing system characterized by comprising a means for providing information for payment for said exchange. 2. The conversion request relating to the issued privilege points unique to the subscribing company is received from the computer system used by the subscribing company or the client system used by the member via the communication network. The point processing system according to claim 1, further comprising means for converting the privilege points into the standard points according to a predetermined conversion rule. 3. The client system used by the member, via the communication network, calculates and displays an amount corresponding to the shortfall for the required point prize exceeding the standard point balance of the member, and displays the amount. The point processing system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, as a condition, a request for exchange for the prize is accepted. 4. The point processing system according to claim 3, wherein for the prize whose standard point balance of the member has reached a predetermined reference value lower than the required points, the shortfall equivalent amount is displayed. 5. The number of redemption requests at each time point and the condition that the required points are lowered due to the increase in the number of redemption requests are presented to the client system used by the member via the communication network, and the award request is made. The point processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: 6. A notification from a client system used by the member, via the communication network, of the number of points in the member's point balance and the member to which the member is a destination specified by a member of any of the subscribing businesses. 2. When it is given, a means for moving the designated number of standard points to the designated destination member is provided.
5. The point processing system according to any one of 5 to 5. 7. Means for depositing a message from the source member and transmitting the message to the destination member via the client system and the communication network used by the member, and whether the destination member accepts the transfer. 7. The point processing system according to claim 6, further comprising: means for selecting whether or not the movement is accepted, and means for notifying the member of the movement source whether or not the movement is accepted. 8. A process of registering a subscribing business operator and its members, and a case of receiving at least one of information regarding a transaction or awarding points relating to the member from a computer system used by the subscribing business operator via a communication network. , A process of giving predetermined standard points to the member based on the information, a process of responding to an inquiry for information including a balance regarding the standard points via a communication network to a client system used by the member, A process of accepting an exchange request for an award for the standard points from the client system to be used, and a process of outputting predetermined information for the exchange to a predetermined output destination when the exchange request is received. , A communication network for the computer system used by the subscriber Via chromatography click, point processing method characterized by including a process of providing information for payment for said exchange. 9. The conversion request relating to the issued privilege points unique to the subscribing business is received from the computer system used by the subscribing business or the client system used by the member via the communication network. 9. The point processing method according to claim 8, further comprising a process of converting the privilege points into the standard points according to a predetermined conversion rule. 10. The client system used by the member, via the communication network, calculates and displays an amount equivalent to the shortfall for the required points award exceeding the standard point balance of the member, and displays the amount of the shortfall. The point processing method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that a request for redemption of the prize is accepted as a condition. 11. The point processing method according to claim 10, wherein the amount corresponding to the shortfall is displayed for the prize whose standard point balance of the member has reached a predetermined reference value lower than the required points. 12. The client system used by the member, through a communication network, presents the number of redemption requests at each point in time and the condition that the required points can be reduced due to the increase in the number of redemption requests, and requests for redemption. The point processing method according to claim 8, further comprising: 13. The client system used by the member notifies, via the communication network, the number of points in the member's point balance and the destination member designated by the member of any of the subscribing businesses. If
9. A process for moving a designated quantity of standard points to a designated destination member is included.
13. The point processing method according to any one of 1 to 12. 14. A process of depositing a message from the source member and transmitting the message to the destination member via the client system and the communication network used by the member, and whether the destination member accepts the transfer. 14. The point processing method according to claim 13, further comprising: a process of selecting whether or not the transfer is performed, and a process of notifying the member of the transfer source whether or not the transfer is accepted. 15. A subscriber system and its members are registered by controlling a server system which is a computer, and at least the number of transactions or award points relating to the member are registered from a computer system used by the subscription company via a communication network. When any of the information is received, the member is given predetermined standard points based on the information, and the client system used by the member is inquired about the information including the balance regarding the standard points via the communication network. In response, the client system used by the member receives a request for exchange of an award for the standard point via a communication network, and when the exchange request is received, the predetermined information for the exchange is output to a predetermined output destination. Output to the computer used by the subscriber. Software for point processing, characterized in that the computer system is provided with information for settlement of the exchange through a communication network. 16. When the server system receives a conversion request relating to an issued privilege point unique to the subscribing company from a computer system used by the subscribing company or a client system used by its members via a communication network, 16. The point processing software according to claim 15, wherein the privilege points related to the conversion request are converted into the standard points according to a predetermined conversion rule. 17. The server system causes a client system used by the member to calculate and display an amount equivalent to the shortfall for a prize of required points exceeding the balance of the standard points of the member via the communication network, The point processing software according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that a request for exchange for the prize is accepted on condition that the amount of money is settled. 18. The server system causes the client system used by the member to present the number of redemption requests at each time point and a condition for lowering the required points due to an increase in the number of redemption requests, via a communication network. The point processing software according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein a redemption request is solicited. 19. The server system further comprises: from a client system used by the member via the communication network, a quantity in the point balance of the member and a destination specified by a member of any of the subscribing businesses. The point processing software according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein when the member is notified, the designated number of standard points are moved to the designated destination member. 20. A client system control method for transmitting a request for exchange of an award from a member for standard points, which are common privilege points generated by using a plurality of subscribing businesses, respectively. Of one or more screens for calculating and displaying the amount equivalent to the shortfall for the required points award exceeding the standard point balance, and accepting the exchange request for the award, subject to the settlement of the amount. A method for controlling a client system, characterized by displaying the client system via a communication network. 21. A method of controlling a client system for transmitting a request for exchange of an award from a member for standard points, which are common privilege points generated by using a plurality of subscribing businesses, respectively. , Presenting the number of redemption requests at each time point and the condition that the required points are lowered due to the increase in the number of redemption requests, and displaying one or more screens for soliciting redemption requests to the client system via the communication network. A method for controlling a client system characterized by displaying.