JP4845505B2 - Computer service use management system and method, and service use management apparatus - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a computer service management system and the like.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, various services using a PC are provided to users having a personal computer (PC) through a communication network such as the Internet due to advances in computer technology and communication technology.

  For example, a PC user receives a service for connecting a PC to the Internet by contracting with an ISP (Internet service provider), or by contracting with an ASP (Application Service Provider) to acquire application software possessed by the ASP. You can receive the services you use. Further, a customer who purchased a PC can receive various services such as technical support, telephone support, and repair guarantee for the purchased PC by, for example, concluding a support contract with a dealer.

  Since these services are convenient for PC users, PC sales stores provide information on these services to customers who have purchased PCs.

  However, since the services described above that are guided at the PC sales store are diverse, the user can select and contract a favorite service from various services, but depending on the user, the selection may be made. It was troublesome.

  Specifically, even if the user selects a favorite service, the installation procedure and setting procedure for receiving the selected service must be performed individually for each selected service, and the number of users selected is equal to the number of selected services. The effort has increased.

  In addition, these services generally have usage periods set, and in order for users to continue using the services even after the usage period has elapsed, the usage period update procedure is performed separately for each service. The user's effort has increased by the number of selected services. In particular, when the usage period is different for each service, the user must grasp the usage period for each service and perform an update procedure before the end of the usage period for each service, which is more troublesome. It was.

  In addition, since the billing process for the contracted service is performed for each service, if the user contracts with multiple services, the payment process must be performed for each service individually, and the grasping and management, etc. Was cumbersome for the user.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a computer service use management system or the like that allows a computer user to easily use a plurality of services provided by using the computer. With the goal.

In order to achieve the above object, a computer service use management system according to the first aspect of the present invention provides:
Services for managing the computer, a plurality of service providing apparatus that provides each multiple services using the computer to a user of the computer, for use by the user of the services provided by the plurality of service providing apparatuses a use management apparatus, but a computer service management system that will be connected via a communications network with each other,
The service use management device includes:
Usage application information receiving means for receiving , from the computer, usage application information indicating an application instruction for use of the plurality of services by a user of the computer ;
When the utilization request information receiving means receives the utilization request information, the number of previous per service Kifuku, a utilization program for said user using said computer is performed in the computer in order to use the service, the Use program receiving means for receiving from the plurality of service providing devices that respectively provide a plurality of services ;
A utilization program transmitting means for transmitting the utilization program for each of the plurality of services received by the utilization program receiving means to the computer;
The computer
The utilization program transmitting means for receiving the plurality of services each use programs transmitted by the execution of the utilization program, and the access to the plurality of service providing apparatus for providing each of the plurality of services which the user uses,
The service use management device further includes:
An application date storage means for storing an application date on which the use application information receiving means has received the use application information;
For each of the plurality of services, a usage period storage unit that stores a usage period that is a period during which the user can use the service from an application date;
An expiration date storage means for storing an expiration date for each of the plurality of services, which is obtained based on an application date stored by the application date storage means and a usage period stored by the usage period storage means;
From among the plurality of services, a service in which the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage unit is included from the current date to a date after a predetermined number of days elapses from the current date is extracted. Service extraction means;
Update request information transmitting means for transmitting update request information for a usage period to an extracted service providing apparatus that is a service providing apparatus that provides the extracted service when the service extracting means extracts a service;
Update completion information receiving means for receiving update completion information indicating that the provision of service to the user has been extended from the extraction service providing apparatus that has received the update request information transmitted by the update request information transmitting means;
When the update completion information receiving means receives update completion information from the extraction service providing apparatus, the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage means of the service provided by the extraction service providing apparatus is The usage period stored in the usage period storage means of the service provided by the extraction service providing device is added to obtain the next usage expiration date, and the usage expiration date storage of the service provided by the extraction service providing device is obtained. An expiration date update means for rewriting the expiration date stored in the means for the next expiration date,
It is characterized by that.

The use program receiving means of the service use management device comprises:
When the utilization request information receiving means receives the utilization request information, to each of the plurality of service providing apparatus for providing pre Kifuku number of services, respectively, provide start request information transmission for transmitting a launch request information service Means,
Request use program receiving means for receiving the use program from the plurality of service providing apparatuses that have received the provision start request information ;
The service providing apparatus includes:
Use program storage means for storing a use program executed by the computer in order for the user to use a service provided by the user ;
When the launch request information transmission means receives the availability request information transmitted, and means for transmitting the use program before Symbol utilization program storage means is stored in the service usage management apparatus, a
You may do it.

  A charging device is connected to the service usage management device via a communication network;
  The service use management device includes:
  Personal information receiving means for receiving personal information of a user of the computer from the computer;
  Personal information transmitting means for transmitting the personal information received by the personal information receiving means to the billing device,
  The charging device is
  The personal information transmitted by the personal information transmitting means is received, and based on the personal information, a bill for a collective usage fee is generated that summarizes the usage fees for each of the predetermined services to the computer user. ,
  You may do it.

  In addition, a computer service use management method according to the second aspect of the present invention includes:
  A computer, a plurality of service providing apparatuses that respectively provide a plurality of services using the computer to a user of the computer, and service use for managing the use of each service provided by the plurality of service providing apparatuses by the user A computer service use management method executed by a system in which a management apparatus and a management apparatus are connected to each other via a communication network,
  The service use management device receives from the computer use application information receiving step for receiving use application information indicating an application instruction for use of the plurality of services by a user of the computer;
  When the service use management apparatus receives the use application information in the use application information receiving step, the service is executed by the computer for the user to use the service for each of the plurality of services using the computer. A utilization program receiving step of receiving a utilization program from the plurality of service providing apparatuses that respectively provide the plurality of services;
  A usage program transmission step in which the service usage management device transmits the usage program for each of the plurality of services received in the usage program reception step to the computer;
  The plurality of service providing apparatuses, wherein the computer receives the use program for each of the plurality of services transmitted in the use program transmission step, and provides the plurality of services used by the user by executing the use program. Step to access
  An application date recording step in which the service use management device records an application date in which the use application information is received in the use application information receiving step in an application date storage unit;
  A usage period recording step in which the service usage management device records a usage period, which is a period during which the user can use a service from an application date, in the usage period storage unit for each of the plurality of services;
  The service use management device is configured to obtain a use expiration date for each of the plurality of services obtained based on an application date stored in the application date storage unit and a use period stored in the use period storage unit. An expiration date recording step to record;
  The service usage management device includes, from among the plurality of services, a usage expiration date stored in the usage expiration date storage unit from a current date to a date after the elapse of a predetermined number of days from the current date. A service extraction step for extracting the service being
  When the service usage management device extracts a service in the service extraction step, an update request information transmission for transmitting update request information of a usage period to an extraction service providing device that is a service providing device that provides the extracted service Steps,
  Update completion information for receiving update completion information indicating that service provision to the user has been extended from the extraction service providing apparatus that has received the update request information transmitted in the update request information transmitting step by the service use management apparatus Receiving step;
  When the service use management device receives update completion information from the extraction service providing device in the update completion information receiving step, the service use management device is stored in the use expiration date storage unit of the service provided by the extraction service providing device. The use period stored in the use period storage unit of the service provided by the extraction service providing device is added to the next use expiration date to obtain the next use expiration date, and provided by the extraction service providing device. An expiration date update step of rewriting the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage unit of the service with the next expiration date;
  It is characterized by having.

A service use management device according to the third aspect of the present invention is:
A computer, a plurality of service providing apparatus that provides a plurality of services respectively using the computer to a user of the computer, are connected via a communication network, by the user of each service provided by the plurality of service providing apparatuses a service management equipment for managing the use,
Usage application information receiving means for receiving , from the computer, usage application information indicating an application instruction for use of the plurality of services by a user of the computer ;
When the front Symbol utilization request information receiving means receives the utilization request information, the number of previous per service Kifuku, a utilization program for said user using said computer is performed in the computer in order to use the service, Utilization program receiving means for receiving the plurality of services from the plurality of service providing devices ;
The pre-Symbol utilization program the plurality of services each user program received by the receiving means, a utilization program transmitting means for transmitting to said computer,
An application date storage means for storing an application date on which the use application information receiving means has received the use application information;
For each of the plurality of services, a usage period storage unit that stores a usage period that is a period during which the user can use the service from an application date;
An expiration date storage means for storing an expiration date for each of the plurality of services, which is obtained based on an application date stored by the application date storage means and a usage period stored by the usage period storage means;
From among the plurality of services, a service in which the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage unit is included from the current date to a date after a predetermined number of days elapses from the current date is extracted. Service extraction means;
Update request information transmitting means for transmitting update request information for a usage period to an extracted service providing apparatus that is a service providing apparatus that provides the extracted service when the service extracting means extracts a service;
Update completion information receiving means for receiving update completion information indicating that the provision of service to the user has been extended from the extraction service providing apparatus that has received the update request information transmitted by the update request information transmitting means;
When the update completion information receiving means receives update completion information from the extraction service providing apparatus, the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage means of the service provided by the extraction service providing apparatus is The usage period stored in the usage period storage means of the service provided by the extraction service providing device is added to obtain the next usage expiration date, and the usage expiration date storage of the service provided by the extraction service providing device is obtained. An expiration date update means for rewriting the expiration date stored in the means for the next expiration date,
And wherein a call.

  According to the present invention, a computer user can easily use a plurality of services provided by using a computer.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a computer service management system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in the figure, the computer service management system according to the present embodiment includes a personal computer 1, a plurality of service providing servers 2, a service management server 3, and a billing server 4, each of which has a communication network 5. Are connected to each other.

The personal computer (PC) 1 is, for example, a personal computer (PC) purchased by a customer from a computer seller.
The PC 1 includes a communication control device, and has a communication function for communicating with other devices.

  Each of the plurality of service providing servers 2 is a server device that provides various services using the PC 1 to the user (customer) of the PC 1, for example, each of the service providers that provide the service.

Each of the service providing servers 2 can provide, for example, a repair warranty service providing server, an ASP (Application Service Provider) server, a replacement service providing server, a technical support service providing server, and a product purchase service providing according to the contents of the provided service. Functions as a server.
Note that the product content of the service provided by the service providing server 2 is not limited to these, and other services such as extended warranty, personal information protection, anti-virus measures, store / visit support guarantee, broadband, etc. Service providing server 2 that provides

The service management server 3 is a server device that manages services provided from the service providing server 2 to the PC 1. For example, the service management server 3 has a service seller that sells services provided by the service providing server 2 to users of the PC 1. is there.
Specifically, the service seller collects some of the plurality of services respectively provided by the plurality of service providing servers 2 and sells them to the user of the PC 1. Hereinafter, the plurality of services combined are referred to as a service pack. The service management server 3 recognizes sold service packs for each user, and collectively manages the services included in the service pack.

  For example, when there is an application for use of a service pack from a user of the PC 1, the service management server 3 collectively performs an introduction process for using the PC 1 for each service included in the service pack. For example, a program necessary for using the service included in the service pack is downloaded to the PC 1. With this introduction process, the user of the PC 1 can use all the services included in the service pack using the PC 1.

  When the user of the PC 1 actually uses the service included in the service pack, the user provides the service by using the PC 1 to access the service providing server 2 corresponding to the service to be used.

  Specifically, for example, when the anti-virus service is included in the service pack and the user uses the anti-virus service, the PC 1 executes the anti-virus service according to the program for the anti-virus service downloaded to the PC 1. The latest virus definition file or the like is acquired from the service providing server 2 to be provided. Then, when the PC 1 checks and removes viruses and spyware, for example, when the PC 1 is activated, the user is provided with an anti-virus service.

  The service management server 3 also recognizes the use period of each service included in the service pack while the user is using the service pack, and provides update processing of the use period for each service. Access server 2 automatically. Furthermore, when it is necessary to provide information to the user regarding the service pack or each service included in the service pack, the necessary information is transmitted to the PC 1.

The billing server 4 is a server device that performs billing processing for the service managed by the service management server 3. For example, a service seller having the service management server 3 also has the billing server 4.
Specifically, the billing server 4 collectively performs billing processing for all services included in the service pack.

The communication network 5 is a communication network such as the Internet.
Each of the PC 1, the service providing server 2, the service management server 3, and the billing server 4 has a communication function for communicating with other devices on the network via the communication network 5.

  According to the computer service management system having the configuration described above, the user of the PC 1 simply selects a service pack including a plurality of services, and the processes necessary for using all the services included in the service pack on the PC 1 are collectively performed. Done. For example, when an ASP use service and a PC diagnosis service are included in the service pack, a program necessary for using the ASP and a program necessary for using the PC diagnosis service are automatically transmitted from the service management server 3 through the communication network 5 to the user. To PC1.

  As a result, the user of the PC 1 can select a service to be used from a plurality of services and perform the service pack procedure without performing the procedure and processing for using the service individually. Each included service can be used, and a plurality of services can be easily used with a simple procedure.

The service management server 3 collectively manages the usage period of each service included in the service pack. In other words, while using the service pack, the usage period of each service is individually recognized and automatically updated, and the contents of each service included in the service pack are validated.
As a result, the user of the PC 1 only needs to grasp the usage period as a service pack, and does not need to grasp the usage period for each service included in the service pack and perform an update procedure. The service can be used easily.

In addition, the billing server 4 collectively performs billing processing for services included in the service pack.
As a result, the content of each service can be charged collectively for the services in the service pack on behalf of the service provider on behalf of the service provider. Therefore, the user of the PC 1 can easily grasp and manage the payment process and can easily use a plurality of services.

Next, the configuration of each device constituting the computer service management system according to the present embodiment will be described.
First, the configuration of the PC 1 will be described.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the PC 1.
As illustrated, the PC 1 includes a communication unit 11, an input unit 12, an output unit 13, a storage unit 14, and a control unit 15, and each unit is connected to each other via a bus 16. .

The communication unit 11 communicates with other devices via the communication network 5 and includes a communication interface and the like.
The input unit 12 is used to input various information and includes an input device such as a keyboard and a mouse.
The output unit 13 outputs various information and includes an output device such as a display.

  The storage unit 14 stores various information, programs, and the like, and includes an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk. Specifically, the storage unit 14 stores a service pack dedicated program necessary for using the service pack, a service use program necessary for using each service included in the service pack, and the like.

  The control unit 15 performs arithmetic processing of data and controls the communication unit 11, the input unit 12, the output unit 13, and the storage unit 14 via the bus 16, and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 151, a ROM ( A Read Only Memory (152) and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 153 are provided. Specifically, the arithmetic processing and control processing in the control unit 15 are performed by the CPU 151 executing the control program stored in the ROM 152 while temporarily storing various data using the RAM 153 as a work area. Done.

  And the control part 15 controls the whole PC1 according to the program memorize | stored in ROM152 or the memory | storage part 14, and in PC1, the application process to a service pack, and the utilization process of each service included in a service pack in PC1 Etc. are performed.

Next, the configuration of the service providing server 2 will be described.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the service providing server 2.
As illustrated, the service providing server 2 includes a communication unit 21, an input unit 22, an output unit 23, a timing unit 24, a storage unit 25, and a control unit 26, and each unit is a bus 27. Are connected to each other.

  Here, the communication unit 21, the input unit 22, and the output unit 23 can be realized by the same configuration as each unit having the same name of the PC 1 shown in FIG.

  The time measuring unit 24 records the date and time, and includes a clock circuit and the like. Specifically, for example, the date and time acquired by the time measuring unit 24 is used to determine whether or not it is within the service use period when the service is provided.

  The storage unit 25 stores various information, programs, and the like, and includes an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk. Specifically, the storage unit 25 stores a service use program and the like necessary for the user to use the service using the PC 1 according to the type of service provided by each service providing server 2. The In addition, the storage unit 25 stores a customer ID table 251 for specifying a customer as a service provision target.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a data configuration example of the customer ID table.
As illustrated, the customer ID table 251 stores a customer ID, which is customer identification information, and a password corresponding to the customer ID in association with each customer.
For example, the service providing server 2 provides a service only to the PC 1 that has transmitted the customer ID and password stored in the customer ID table.

Returning to FIG. 3, the control unit 26 performs calculation processing of data and controls the communication unit 21, the input unit 22, the output unit 23, the time measuring unit 24, and the storage unit 25 via the bus 27, and the CPU 261. ROM 262 and RAM 263 are provided.
The control unit 26 controls the entire service providing server 2 in accordance with the programs stored in the ROM 262 and the storage unit 25, so that a service providing process for the PC 1 is performed.

Next, the configuration of the service management server 3 will be described.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the service management server 3.
As illustrated, the service management server 3 includes a communication unit 31, an input unit 32, an output unit 33, a timing unit 34, a storage unit 35, and a control unit 36, and each unit is a bus 37. Are connected to each other.

  Here, the communication unit 31, the input unit 32, and the output unit 33 can be realized by the same configuration as each unit having the same name of the PC 1 shown in FIG.

  The timekeeping unit 34 records the date and time, and includes a clock circuit and the like. Specifically, for example, the date and time acquired by the timing unit 24 is used to determine whether or not the use period of the service provided by the service providing server 2 is approaching.

  The storage unit 35 stores various information, programs, and the like, and includes an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk. Specifically, for example, in the storage unit 35, a customer information table 351 that stores information on a customer who applied for a service pack, a service information table 352 that stores information about each service included in the service pack, a service pack, The usage period management table 353 for managing the usage period of each service included in the service is stored.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a data configuration example of the customer information table.
As shown in the figure, the customer information table 351 includes, for each customer, the customer's name, address, contact information (phone number), e-mail address, PC model number of the customer, service pack application date, customer ID, password. Etc. are stored in association with each other.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a data configuration example of the service information table.
As illustrated, the service information table 352 includes a service name that is identification information of each service included in the service pack, an IP address indicating an address on the communication network 5 of the service providing server 2 that provides the service, The usage period from the service application date is stored in association with each other.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a data configuration example of the usage time limit management table.
The expiration date management table 353 is for managing the expiration date of each service included in the service pack to which the customer applies, and as shown in the figure, the expiration date of the service used by the customer The service name and the customer ID of the customer are stored in association with each other. With this use period management table, the service management server 3 can grasp the use period for each service for each customer.
Note that the expiration date management table 353 illustrated in FIG. 8 sorts information in ascending order of the expiration date so that the service management server 3 can more easily grasp the expiration date.

Returning to FIG. 5, the control unit 36 performs data calculation processing and controls the communication unit 31, the input unit 32, the output unit 33, the time measuring unit 34, and the storage unit 35 via the bus 37, and the CPU 361. ROM 362 and RAM 363.
The control unit 36 controls the entire service management server 3 in accordance with programs stored in the ROM 362 and the storage unit 35, whereby service management processing and the like are performed in the service management server 3.

Next, the configuration of the accounting server 4 will be described.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the accounting server 4.
As shown in the figure, the accounting server 4 includes a communication unit 41, an input unit 42, an output unit 43, a timing unit 44, a storage unit 45, and a control unit 46, and each unit uses a bus 47. Are connected to each other.

  Here, the communication unit 41, the input unit 42, and the output unit 43 can be realized by the same configuration as each unit of the same name of the PC 1 shown in FIG.

  The time measuring unit 44 records the date and time, and includes a clock circuit and the like. Specifically, the date and time acquired by the timing unit 44 is used to determine the date of billing the service pack customer.

The storage unit 45 stores various information, programs, and the like, and includes an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk. Specifically, for example, the storage unit 45 stores a charging information table 451 for storing information necessary for charging processing of each service included in the service pack.
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a data configuration example of the billing information table.
As shown in the figure, the billing information table 451 stores a service name and billing information such as a fee required for using the service in association with each other.

Returning to FIG. 9, the control unit 46 performs data calculation processing and controls the communication unit 41, the input unit 42, the output unit 43, the time measuring unit 44, and the storage unit 45 via the bus 47, and the CPU 461. ROM 462 and RAM 463 are provided.
The control unit 46 controls the entire accounting server 4 in accordance with the programs stored in the ROM 462 and the storage unit 45, whereby the accounting server 4 performs accounting processing and the like.

Next, the operation of the computer service management system according to the present embodiment when the user of the PC 1 uses a service pack will be described.
FIG. 11 is a procedure explanatory diagram showing a procedure example of service use application processing in the computer service management system according to the present embodiment.

In the present embodiment, a case where a computer seller also sells service packs will be described as an example.
In addition, in each process in the PC 1, the service providing server 2, the service management server 3, and the billing server 4 described below, each control unit controls each unit according to a program stored in each ROM or storage unit. Is realized.

First, a computer seller provides service pack guidance to a customer who purchased the PC 1 at a store, for example.
When the customer decides to purchase a service pack in accordance with this guidance, the computer seller installs a service pack dedicated program necessary for using the service pack on the PC 1 purchased by the customer, for example, at the store.
Then, after the customer performs work such as connecting the PC 1 to the communication line at home or the like, and preparing the use environment of the PC 1, this service use application process is executed by executing the service pack dedicated program already installed. Be started.

  First, under the control of the control unit 15 according to the service pack dedicated program, the PC 1 requests the user of the PC 1 who is a customer to input user information such as name, address, contact information, and e-mail address. In response, user information is acquired via the input unit 12 (step S11).

Next, the PC 1 reads and acquires the main body model number information of the PC 1 stored in advance in the storage unit 14 or the like (step S12).
Then, the PC 1 transmits the acquired user information and main body model number information to the service management server 3 together with use application information for requesting an application for using the service pack (step S13).

When the service management server 3 receives the use application information from the PC 1, the service management server 3 acquires the date of the day from the time measuring unit 34 as application date information (step S14).
Furthermore, the service management server 3 assigns and issues a customer ID for identifying the user of the service pack and a password for the customer (step S15).

Then, the service management server 3 stores the customer name, address, contact information, e-mail address, main body model number, newly acquired application date, customer ID, and password received from the PC 1 as customer information. Is recorded in the customer information table 351 stored in (step S16).
In this way, the service management server 3 accumulates customer information for each customer who applied for the service pack. And the user of PC1 who is a customer can enjoy all services with this customer information hereafter.

Next, the service management server 3 transmits the customer ID and the customer password together with provision start request information for requesting the start of service provision to each service provision server 2 that provides each service included in the service pack ( Step S17).
Specifically, for example, the service management server 3 refers to the service information table 352 stored in the storage unit 35 and reads the IP address of the service providing server 2 that provides each service included in the service pack. Based on the information, information is transmitted to the service providing server 2.

  When the service providing server 2 receives the provision start request information from the service management server 3, the service providing server 2 records the received customer ID and password in the customer ID table 251 of the storage unit 25, and the user specified by the recorded customer ID and password. The provision start process for starting the provision of the service is performed (step S18).

  Then, the service providing server 2 reads a service use program necessary for using the service provided by the PC 1 from the storage unit 25 and transmits it to the service management server 3 (step S19).

  When the service management server 3 receives the service use program from each service providing server 2 that provides each service included in the service pack, the service management server 3 sends the received service use program and the customer ID and password issued in step S15 to the PC 1. Transmit (step S20).

  Upon receiving the service use program, customer ID, and password from the service management server 3, the PC 1 installs the service use program for each service included in the service pack under the control of the control unit 15 according to the service pack dedicated program. Then, service use introduction processing such as settings necessary for using each service is performed (step S21).

Then, the PC 1 displays the customer ID and password (step S22), and ends this service use application process. Specifically, for example, the PC 1 displays the customer ID and password via the display of the output unit 13, and performs authentication processing in each service providing device 2 that provides each service included in the service pack to the user of the PC 1. Inform the necessary customer ID and password.
When the service pack includes a service that is automatically provided regardless of user operation, the PC 1 stores the received customer ID and password in the storage unit 14.

  Through this service use application process, the user of the PC 1 can subsequently use all the services included in the service pack using the customer ID and password.

  Specifically, when the user of the PC 1 uses the service included in the service pack using the PC 1, the service for the service to be used from among a plurality of service use programs stored in the storage unit 14 of the PC 1. Run the usage program. The PC 1 accesses the service providing server 2 that provides a service that the user wants to use under the control of the control unit 15 according to the executed service use program.

  The service providing server 2 that has received access to the PC 1 requests the customer ID and password from the PC 1. In response to a request from the service providing server 2, the PC 1 acquires a customer ID and password by a user operation via the input unit 12, reading from the storage unit 14, and the like, and transmits the customer ID and password to the service providing server 2. The service providing server 2 that has received the customer ID and password refers to the customer ID table 251 in the storage unit 25 and performs user authentication processing. When it is confirmed by this authentication processing that the user can use the service, the user of the PC 1 uses the service such as downloading various service information from the service providing server 2 to the PC 1.

Next, the collective management process for the usage period of each service included in the service pack will be described.
First, the expiration date registration process to the expiration date management table 353 in the service management server 3 will be described.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a process for registering the expiration date in the expiration date management table.
This expiration date registration process is started when new customer information is recorded in the customer information table 351, for example.

  First, the control unit 36 of the service management server 3 reads the application date and the customer ID from the customer information newly recorded in the customer information table 351 of the storage unit 35 (step S31).

  Next, the control unit 36 refers to the use period for each service indicated in the service information table 352 of the storage unit 35, and for each service included in the service pack based on the use period and the application date. The expiration date is calculated (step S32). Specifically, for example, when the application date newly added to the customer information table 351 is September 1, 2005, the service warranty table service usage period is 3 years from the service information table 352, the ASP service. It is shown that the usage period of the service is 1 year, the replacement service is 5 years, etc. On September 1, 2006, September 1, 2010, etc. are calculated as the expiration date for using the replacement guidance service.

  Next, the control unit 36 records the calculated expiration date, service name, and customer ID in association with each other in the expiration date management table 353 (step S33). Specifically, for example, when the application date newly added to the customer information table 351 is September 1, 2005 and the customer ID is SP0006, each expiration date calculated in step S32 (2008) On September 1, 2008, September 1, 2008, September 1, 2006, etc.), the service name (repair guarantee, ASP, document) stored in the service information table 352 in association with the usage period used for the calculation. (Replacement guidance, etc.) and the customer ID (SP0006) are associated with each other and additionally registered in the use period management table 353.

Then, the control unit 36 sorts the information recorded in the expiration date management table 353 in ascending order of the expiration date (step S34), and ends the expiration date registration process.
In the batch management process of the usage period of each service included in the service pack, the usage period update process described below is performed based on the usage period management table 353 in which the usage period date is registered in the above usage period registration process. Done.

FIG. 13 is a procedure explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a procedure of usage period update processing in the computer service management system according to the present embodiment.
The service management server 3 executes this usage period update process periodically, for example, once a day.
First, the service management server 3 acquires the date of the day from the time measuring unit 34 (step S41).

  Next, the service management server 3 refers to the expiration date management table 353 of the storage unit 35 and determines whether or not there is an expiration date close to the acquired date in the expiration date management table 353 ( Step S42). Specifically, for example, the service management server 3 reads the expiration date from the head of the sorted expiration date management table 353, and the read expiration date is within one week from the date acquired in step S41. It is determined whether or not there is.

When there is no usage expiration date approaching in the usage expiration management table 353 (step S42; No), it is not necessary to update the usage period, so this usage period update process is terminated.
On the other hand, when there is an approaching expiration date (step S42; Yes), the service management server 3 retrieves the service name and customer ID stored in association with the expiration date from the expiration date management table 353. Read (step S43).

  Next, the service management server 3 reads the IP address associated with the read service name with reference to the service information table 352 of the storage unit 35 (step S44).

  Then, the service management server 3 requests the service providing server 2 that provides the service based on the read IP address to update the usage period for the customer ID read in step S43. It transmits with information (step S45).

  When the service providing server 2 receives the update request information from the service management server 3, the service providing server 2 performs a service usage period update process for the customer specified by the received customer ID (step S46). Specifically, for example, the service providing server 2 independently manages the usage period that can be used for each customer for the service that it provides, and receives update request information for the usage period that identifies the customer. Update the usage period and extend the provision of services to the customer.

  Then, the service providing server 2 transmits update completion information indicating that the usage period update process has been completed to the service management server 3 (step S47).

  When the service management server 3 receives the update completion information from the service providing server 2, the service management server 3 performs processing such as rewriting the usage date in the usage date management table 353 to the next usage date, thereby changing the usage date management table 353. Update (step S48), and this usage period update process is terminated. For example, the update of the usage time limit management table 353 is performed by reading the usage period of the service from the service information table 352 using the service name read in step S43 as a key, and detecting the read usage period in step S42. The next expiration date is calculated by adding the expiration date. Then, in the expiration date management table 353, after the expiration date is changed to the next expiration date, it is sorted and updated in ascending order of the expiration date.

  This usage period update process automatically updates the usage periods of all the services included in the service pack while the user of the PC 1 uses the service pack, and the user uses all the services included in the service pack. Can continue.

Next, the accounting process performed by the accounting server 4 will be described.
The accounting server 4 receives the customer information recorded in the customer information table 351 from the service management server 3. Then, for the customer specified by the received customer information, charging processing for service use is performed based on the charging information table 451.

  Specifically, the billing server 4 receives customer information such as the name, address, contact information, e-mail address, and customer ID of the customer who is the billing person from the service management server 3, and the received information is billed. This information is stored in the storage unit 45 as person information. The billing server 4 refers to the billing information table 451 in the storage unit 45, collects the usage fees for all services included in the service pack, such as once a month, as a service pack usage fee, and charges all at once. Charge the subject.

  For example, the billing server 4 sends out a bill for the address shown in the customer information. In addition, for example, for a service set for a monthly fee, a charge is included in the monthly billing process, and for a service set for an annual fee, the billing process is performed once a year. To charge.

  Note that, for example, a service pack may include a service that is charged for the amount used, and in this case, the billing server 4 receives a service usage fee for each customer from the service providing server 2. , It may be included in the collective billing process.

  With such billing processing, the user only has to respond to the billing processing as a service pack, and does not need to respond to the billing processing for each service included in the service pack. be able to.

Next, specific examples of services included in the service pack will be described.
Depending on the type of service provided to the customer, the service management server 3 may have a function as the service providing server 2 without providing the dedicated service providing server 2 and provide the service to the user of the PC 1. May be.
Therefore, a case where a repair guarantee service and a replacement guidance service, which are specific service examples, are provided by such a method will be described.

When a repair guarantee service is included in the service pack, automatic traveling software is installed in the PC 1 as a service use program for repair guarantee service by the service use application process (FIG. 11) described above.
This automatic patrol software periodically patrols the PC 1 periodically, for example, once a week, and checks for an abnormality in the PC 1.

  When the automatic patrol software detects an abnormality in the PC 1, first, it tries to recover the detected abnormality. If the PC cannot be recovered, it is determined that the PC is out of order, and the symptom information of the malfunction is generated, and the customer ID and password are read from the storage unit 14, and the symptom information, customer ID, and password are serviced. Transmit to the providing server 3.

  Repair guarantee notification software for repair warranty service is installed in the service management server 3, and when symptom information and the like are received from the PC 1, notification of repair guarantee is online to the user of the PC 1 according to the processing of the repair warranty notification software. I do.

  Specifically, for example, based on the received information, the service management server 3 generates repair guarantee information that optionally includes information such as store / visit repair reception guidance, an estimated repair amount, and replacement promotion. Then, the customer's email address is read from the customer information table 351 using the received customer ID as a key, and the generated repair guarantee information is notified by email.

  Notification of repair warranty information can be changed in various ways according to the current situation. For example, when receiving the symptom information from the PC 1, the service management server 3 reads the application date from the customer information table 351 using the received customer ID as a key, obtains the date of the day from the time measuring unit 34, and starts from the application date. For example, it is determined whether or not three years have passed.

  If it is determined that the period is less than three years, the repair guarantee information includes information on the repair reception guide at the store or visit collection and the estimated approximate amount of repair calculated based on the received symptom information.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the period is three years or more, replacement purchase promotion information is included in the repair guarantee information for less than three years. Specifically, the service management server 3 reads the main body model number from the customer information table 351 using the received customer ID as a key, and selects a recommended replacement model for the PC based on the main body model number. Further, based on the model number of the main body, the received symptom information, and the like, a predicted purchase price of the currently used PC when the purchase is replaced is calculated. Then, the repair warranty information is obtained by adding the recommended replacement model and the predicted PC purchase price to the repair warranty information for less than 3 years.

  Note that the period used for the determination here is not limited to three years. For example, according to an empirical rule, etc., it may be an elapsed period in which it is considered better to replace the PC instead of repairing it if it fails. That's fine.

Next, a case where a replacement guidance service is included in the service pack will be described.
The service management server 3 is installed with replacement guide software for replacement guide service. The service management server 3 periodically obtains the date of the day from the timekeeping unit 34 at a rate of once a day or the like according to the processing of the replacement guidance software, and the application recorded in the customer information table 351 Check the date. Then, the main body model number and e-mail address of the PC of the customer who has passed for example five years or more from the application date are read from the customer information table 351.

Then, the service management server 3 selects a recommended replacement model of the PC based on the read main body model number and the like, and calculates a predicted purchase price of the PC currently used when the replacement is performed. Then, replacement information including the recommended replacement model and the predicted PC purchase price is transmitted to the read e-mail address.
Note that the period used for the determination here is not limited to five years, and may be an elapsed period in which it is considered better to replace the PC based on, for example, an empirical rule.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention can be modified and applied in various forms and is not limited to the above embodiments.
For example, in the above embodiment, only one PC 1 is provided in FIG. 1 for easier understanding of the description of the present invention. However, a plurality of PCs 1 for a plurality of users may be connected to the communication network 5. .

  Further, a plurality of types of service packs having different services may be prepared and the customer may be selected. In this case, for example, a table for specifying the included service is stored in the storage unit 35 for each service pack name for identifying the service pack. Then, the service management server 3 acquires the service pack name selected at the time of applying for the customer's service pack, records it in the customer information table 351, refers to the table, and is included in the service pack for each customer. What is necessary is just to specify a service.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, although the service pack exclusive program is installed in PC1 at the shop front, you may make it install online according to a user's operation, for example.

  In addition, the service providing server 2, the service management server 3, and the billing server 4 constituting the computer service management system according to the embodiment of the present invention are not limited to dedicated hardware, and may be a normal computer system. Can be realized.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, each operation program is described as being stored in advance in each memory or the like in each of the service providing server 2, the service management server 3, and the billing server 4. However, each program for executing the above-described processing operation can be read by a computer such as a flexible disk, a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read-Only Memory), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), and an MO (Magneto-Optical disk). Each server device that executes the above-described processing operation may be configured by storing and distributing the program in a recording medium and installing the program in each computer.

Further, the program may be stored in a disk device or the like included in a predetermined server device on a communication network such as the Internet, and may be downloaded onto a computer by being superimposed on a carrier wave, for example. Furthermore, the above-described processing can also be achieved by starting and executing a program while transferring it via a communication network.
In addition, when the above functions are realized by sharing an OS (Operating System), or when the functions are realized by cooperation between the OS and an application, only the part other than the OS may be stored in a medium and distributed. Alternatively, it may be downloaded to a computer.

It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the computer service management system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the personal computer 1 shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the service provision server 2 shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the data structural example of a customer ID table. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the service management server 3 shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the data structural example of a customer information table. It is a figure which shows the data structural example of a service information table. It is a figure which shows the data structural example of an expiration date management table. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the accounting server 4 shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the data structural example of an accounting information table. It is a procedure explanatory drawing which shows the example of a procedure of the service use application process in the computer service management system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an expiration date registration process. It is a procedure explanatory drawing which shows the example of a procedure of the utilization period update process in the computer service management system which concerns on embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1 Personal computer (PC)
2 Service providing server 3 Service management server 4 Billing server 5 Communication network 11, 21, 31, 41 Communication unit 12, 22, 32, 42 Input unit 13, 23, 33, 43 Output unit 14, 25, 35, 45 Storage unit 15, 26, 36, 46 Control unit 16, 27, 37, 47 Bus 24, 34, 44 Time measuring unit 151, 261, 361, 461 CPU
152,262,362,462 ROM
153,263,363,463 RAM
251 Customer ID table 351 Customer information table 352 Service information table 353 Expiration date management table 451 Billing information table

Claims (5)

Services for managing the computer, a plurality of service providing apparatus that provides each multiple services using the computer to a user of the computer, for use by the user of the services provided by the plurality of service providing apparatuses a use management apparatus, but a computer service management system that will be connected via a communications network with each other,
The service use management device includes:
Usage application information receiving means for receiving , from the computer, usage application information indicating an application instruction for use of the plurality of services by a user of the computer ;
When the utilization request information receiving means receives the utilization request information, the number of previous per service Kifuku, a utilization program for said user using said computer is performed in the computer in order to use the service, the Use program receiving means for receiving from the plurality of service providing devices that respectively provide a plurality of services ;
A utilization program transmitting means for transmitting the utilization program for each of the plurality of services received by the utilization program receiving means to the computer;
The computer
The utilization program transmitting means for receiving the plurality of services each use programs transmitted by the execution of the utilization program, and the access to the plurality of service providing apparatus for providing each of the plurality of services which the user uses,
The service use management device further includes:
An application date storage means for storing an application date on which the use application information receiving means has received the use application information;
For each of the plurality of services, a usage period storage unit that stores a usage period that is a period during which the user can use the service from an application date;
An expiration date storage means for storing an expiration date for each of the plurality of services, which is obtained based on an application date stored by the application date storage means and a usage period stored by the usage period storage means;
From among the plurality of services, a service in which the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage unit is included from the current date to a date after a predetermined number of days elapses from the current date is extracted. Service extraction means;
Update request information transmitting means for transmitting update request information for a usage period to an extracted service providing apparatus that is a service providing apparatus that provides the extracted service when the service extracting means extracts a service;
Update completion information receiving means for receiving update completion information indicating that the provision of service to the user has been extended from the extraction service providing apparatus that has received the update request information transmitted by the update request information transmitting means;
When the update completion information receiving means receives update completion information from the extraction service providing apparatus, the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage means of the service provided by the extraction service providing apparatus is The usage period stored in the usage period storage means of the service provided by the extraction service providing device is added to obtain the next usage expiration date, and the usage expiration date storage of the service provided by the extraction service providing device is obtained. An expiration date update means for rewriting the expiration date stored in the means for the next expiration date,
A computer service use management system characterized by the above. The use program receiving means of the service use management device comprises:
When the utilization request information receiving means receives the utilization request information, to each of the plurality of service providing apparatus for providing pre Kifuku number of services, respectively, provide start request information transmission for transmitting a launch request information service Means,
Request use program receiving means for receiving the use program from the plurality of service providing apparatuses that have received the provision start request information ;
The service providing apparatus includes:
Use program storage means for storing a use program executed by the computer in order for the user to use a service provided by the user ;
When the launch request information transmission means receives the availability request information transmitted, and means for transmitting the use program before Symbol utilization program storage means is stored in the service usage management apparatus, a
The computer service use management system according to claim 1. A charging device is connected to the service usage management device via a communication network;
The service use management device includes:
Personal information receiving means for receiving personal information of a user of the computer from the computer ;
Personal information transmitting means for transmitting the personal information received by the personal information receiving means to the billing device,
The charging device is
The personal information transmitted by the personal information transmitting means is received, and based on the personal information, a bill for a collective usage fee is generated that summarizes the usage fees for each of the predetermined services to the computer user. ,
The computer service use management system according to claim 1 or 2 . Computers and, service for managing access by the user of the service provided to the user of the computer and the plurality of service providing apparatus that provides each multiple services using the computer, the plurality of service providing apparatuses A computer service use management method executed by a system in which a management apparatus and a management apparatus are connected to each other via a communication network,
The service use management device receives from the computer use application information receiving step for receiving use application information indicating an application instruction for use of the plurality of services by a user of the computer ;
The service management device, when receiving the utilization request information in said utilization request information receiving step, the number of previous per service Kifuku, executed by the computer to the user to use the service by using the computer the utilization program being a utilization program receiving step of receiving the plurality of services from the plurality of service providing apparatus for providing, respectively,
A usage program transmission step in which the service usage management device transmits the usage program for each of the plurality of services received in the usage program reception step to the computer;
Said computer receives said utilization program the plurality of services each of the usage program transmitted in the transmission step, the execution of the utilization program, said plurality of service providing apparatus for providing each of the plurality of services which the user utilizes and step Ru access soot,
An application date recording step in which the service use management device records an application date in which the use application information is received in the use application information receiving step in an application date storage unit;
A usage period recording step in which the service usage management device records a usage period, which is a period during which the user can use a service from an application date, in the usage period storage unit for each of the plurality of services;
The service use management device is configured to obtain a use expiration date for each of the plurality of services obtained based on an application date stored in the application date storage unit and a use period stored in the use period storage unit. An expiration date recording step to record;
The service usage management device includes, from among the plurality of services, a usage expiration date stored in the usage expiration date storage unit from a current date to a date after the elapse of a predetermined number of days from the current date. A service extraction step for extracting the service being
When the service usage management device extracts a service in the service extraction step, an update request information transmission for transmitting update request information of a usage period to an extraction service providing device that is a service providing device that provides the extracted service Steps,
Update completion information for receiving update completion information indicating that service provision to the user has been extended from the extraction service providing apparatus that has received the update request information transmitted in the update request information transmitting step by the service use management apparatus Receiving step;
When the service use management device receives update completion information from the extraction service providing device in the update completion information receiving step, the service use management device is stored in the use expiration date storage unit of the service provided by the extraction service providing device. The use period stored in the use period storage unit of the service provided by the extraction service providing device is added to the next use expiration date to obtain the next use expiration date, and provided by the extraction service providing device. An expiration date update step of rewriting the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage unit of the service with the next expiration date;
A computer service usage management method comprising:   A computer, a plurality of service providing apparatuses that respectively provide a plurality of services using the computer to a user of the computer, and a user of each service provided by the plurality of service providing apparatuses connected via a communication network A service usage management device for managing usage,
  Usage application information receiving means for receiving, from the computer, usage application information indicating an application instruction for use of the plurality of services by a user of the computer;
  When the use application information receiving means receives the use application information, for each of the plurality of services, a use program that is executed by the computer to use the service by the user using the computer, Use program receiving means for receiving the service from the plurality of service providing devices, each providing a service;
  Utilization program transmitting means for transmitting the utilization program for each of the plurality of services received by the utilization program receiving means to the computer;
  An application date storage means for storing an application date on which the use application information receiving means has received the use application information;
  For each of the plurality of services, a usage period storage unit that stores a usage period that is a period during which the user can use the service from an application date;
  An expiration date storage means for storing an expiration date for each of the plurality of services, which is obtained based on an application date stored by the application date storage means and a usage period stored by the usage period storage means;
  From among the plurality of services, a service in which the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage unit is included from the current date to a date after a predetermined number of days elapses from the current date is extracted. Service extraction means;
  Update request information transmitting means for transmitting update request information for a usage period to an extracted service providing apparatus that is a service providing apparatus that provides the extracted service when the service extracting means extracts a service;
  Update completion information receiving means for receiving update completion information indicating that the provision of service to the user has been extended from the extraction service providing apparatus that has received the update request information transmitted by the update request information transmitting means;
  When the update completion information receiving means receives update completion information from the extraction service providing apparatus, the expiration date stored in the expiration date storage means of the service provided by the extraction service providing apparatus is The usage period stored in the usage period storage means of the service provided by the extraction service providing device is added to obtain the next usage expiration date, and the usage expiration date storage of the service provided by the extraction service providing device is obtained. An expiration date update means for rewriting the expiration date stored in the means for the next expiration date,
  A service use management device characterized by that.

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