JP3714217B2 - Point management system and method, and point management program - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a point management system, and more particularly to a system for managing points that are given by using a predetermined store and can receive a predetermined privilege according to the accumulation. The present invention also relates to a method and program for managing points.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, at certain stores, such as retail stores, customers who purchase products handled by their stores are given points according to their usage amount, and predetermined services are provided according to the accumulation status of the points. Is provided. As a result, the customer increases the number of visits so that points can be accumulated in order to receive a predetermined service, and purchases goods at the store. And a store can aim at the increase in sales by what is called a repeater.
[0003]
There are the following types of use of the point system. For example, a membership card is issued for each customer, and is presented at the time of product purchase, and the card is stamped according to the purchase amount. And according to the quantity of the stamp, the store gives a discount when purchasing the product or presents a predetermined product.
[0004]
Further, in recent years, points are also managed using a computer. In this method, member information is stored in advance in a magnetic card or the like, the member is identified by reading this card, and points corresponding to the amount used at the store at this time are stored in the computer. Or the form of memorize | storing directly on a magnetic card is also taken.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in each of the above conventional examples, points are given for each individual, and the use of the store is limited for each individual, resulting in a situation where points are difficult to accumulate. In such a case, the willingness to receive a privilege based on the customer's points declines, and the number of visits to the store also decreases. In addition, there has been a problem that it is difficult to increase store sales.
[0006]
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
The present invention improves the disadvantages of the above-described conventional example, and in particular, a point management system and method, and a point management program capable of increasing the sales of the store by increasing the number of visits to the customer's store The purpose is to provide.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  Therefore, the present invention includes a computer that stores information on members who are given a predetermined point by using the store among customers of the predetermined store and can obtain a predetermined privilege at the point. The computer has a point management function for managing points for each member based on information on the usage status of the store input to the computer, and the computer further adds members to a predetermined group based on the member information. Group management function to manage the group points as a member of the group, the group point aggregation function to count the points of the members in the group, and any member in the group to collect the points of the group unit Group point management machine that manages the points so that can be used Have adopted a configuration that, with the doorThe
  Also, a card issuing device that is connected to a computer and issues a card capable of storing a predetermined amount of information, and a card reading device that reads the information stored in the card and delivers the read information to the computer, The computer has an identification information setting function for setting information for identifying a member and a group of which the member is a member based on the member information, and the card issuing device sets the identification information between the member and the group as predetermined information. It is desirable to have a card issuance function that memorizes the card and issues a membership card.Yes.
[0008]
  With this configuration, the computer first refers to member information and forms a predetermined group of members. When points are added to members in this group, the computer counts the points as group points. That is, the points of all the members making up the group are summed to obtain a group point. Thereafter, when members in the group use the points, the points to be used are subtracted from the group points.aboutIn this way, the computer manages the points.
  Therefore, since the points are accumulated by a plurality of members forming the group, the points can be easily accumulated. Also, when using points, the points used by each person are subtracted from the points of the entire group, and even when there are few individual accumulated points, it is possible to receive services using the points. For this reason, since the member's willingness to accumulate points increases, the number of visits to the store can be increased, and sales can be increased. At this time, if member or group identification information is stored in a card, reading the card makes it easy to identify the member when visiting the store, and management becomes even easier.
[0009]
  Moreover, in this invention, a predetermined | prescribed point is given by using the said store among the store terminal which the predetermined | prescribed store connected via the network has, and the customer of a store, and a predetermined privilege is obtained at the said point And a management server that stores information on members who are capable of managing, and this management server manages points for each member based on information on the store usage status of the members transmitted from the store terminal to the management server A point management function, and a management server further manages a group management member as a member of the group by grouping members into a predetermined group based on member information transmitted from the store terminal; The group point totaling function that totals the members' points, and the total points of the group unit within the group Also the displacement members and a group point management function for managing the point that can be utilized, but also employs a configuration thatThe
  And a card issuing device that is connected to the store terminal and issues a card capable of storing information of a predetermined capacity, and a card reader that reads the information stored in the card and delivers the read information to the store terminal. The management server has an identification information setting function for setting information for identifying a member and a group of which the member is a member based on the member information and transmitting the information to the card issuing device. Member information transmission function that transmits information input to the card issuing device to the management server via the store terminal and member and group identification information set in the management server are stored in the card, and a membership card is issued It is desirable to have a card issuing functionYes.
[0010]
With such a configuration, first, each store terminal of a plurality of stores is connected to the management server via a network. Each store terminal transmits the usage status of the member to the management server. In response to this, the management server manages the points of the members and also manages the points for each group in the same manner as the computer described above. Therefore, when multiple stores have introduced a common point system, members can accumulate and use points regardless of which store they use, because the management server manages those points. Can do. For this reason, points can be used by a plurality of stores, and the customer can use the stores for convenience, so that the sales of the affiliated stores as a whole can be improved. Similarly to the above, when a member is identified by a card, points can be used with a single card at a plurality of stores, so that the convenience of the member is improved and the management on the store side is further improved. It becomes easy.
[0011]
  In addition, the management server has a point transmission function for transmitting the number of points of the member and the group of which the member is a member to the store terminal when the member uses the store, and the store terminal received from the management server You may have a point notification function to notify members of the number of pointsYes.As a result, each time the member uses the store, the member can know the current accumulation points of the user or the group as a whole, and can plan future point use plans.
[0012]
  Furthermore, it is desirable that the group point management function is a function for managing the points of the group unit that are aggregated when the members of the predetermined group lose their points so that the members can use the points.Yes.At this time, the points available to each member may be part of the group points.Yes.In addition, the group point totaling function can be used as a group point by totaling a part of the points of each member of the group.Yes.
  As a result, each member first uses his / her points when using the points. When there are no more points, the group points are used without limitation or with a predetermined amount. Therefore, since the group points are used only when each member has used up their points, the disadvantages of other members can be suppressed. Furthermore, by making a part of points for each member a group point, it is possible to suppress a situation in which all of the points are used by other members.
[0013]
  The members of the group should also include other groups.Yes.That is, after a group is formed by members, a plurality of groups may be gathered to form a group including these groups. As a result, groups having various relationships belong to the same group, and the number of members increases, making it easier to accumulate points and further increase the use opportunities.
[0014]
  Furthermore, it is desirable that the predetermined group is a family unit group.TheAt this time, the minimum unit of the predetermined group is a family unit group, and it is still desirable to form a relative unit group as a group including the family unit group.Yes.Thereby, since the members of the group are tied in a predetermined trust relationship, the group points can be used more smoothly.
[0015]
  In the present invention, among the customers of a predetermined store, the points of members who are given a predetermined point by using the store and can obtain a predetermined privilege at the point are managed by the computer. A point management method in which a computer stores member information and forms a predetermined group consisting of members who are members based on the member information, and the computer is a member in the group. A point management method comprising a point totaling step for totaling points and a group point management step for managing the total points of the group so that any member in the group can use them. OfferThe
[0016]
  Furthermore, in the present invention, a predetermined computer is a member who is a person who is given a predetermined point by using the store among the customers of the predetermined store and can obtain a predetermined privilege at the point. Is a point management program for controlling the operation of the computer so as to manage the group, and stores group information and forms a predetermined group consisting of a plurality of members based on the member information Processing, point summarization processing for summing up the points of the members in the group, and group point management processing for managing the points of the summed group units so that any member in the group can use them Management program for controlling the operation of a computer to execute the program, and the program Also provides the stored storage mediumThe
  Even if it does in this way, since the effect similar to the above can be obtained, the said objective can be achieved.
[0017]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the present invention. 2 to 3 are explanatory diagrams showing the data structure of the member database. 4 to 5 are flowcharts showing the operation of the present invention.
[0018]
(Constitution)
As shown in FIG. 1, the point management system according to the first embodiment includes a computer 1, a card issuing device 2, and a card reading device 3. These devices 1, 2, and 3 are provided in a predetermined store. With such a configuration, first, a membership card is issued to a part of customers of a predetermined store, and a person who is given the card can become a member. Then, by purchasing a product at a store or using a service provided by the store, the member is given points corresponding to the amount used, and can receive a predetermined service from the store according to the number of points. it can. In this system, such a point is managed by the computer 1. This will be described in detail below.
[0019]
The computer 1 includes an arithmetic device (CPU) (not shown) having a predetermined arithmetic processing capability, a storage device 11 (hard disk) having a predetermined storage capacity, and other devices included in a general computer such as a RAM and a ROM. Computer. The computer 1 is provided in various stores such as a retail store and a service providing store. For example, a supermarket, a clothing store, a restaurant, a beauty salon, or the like. The computer 1 is integrated with a cashier that performs accounting at the store. However, it is not necessarily limited to being integrated with the cash register.
[0020]
A card issuing device 2 and a card reading device 3 are connected to the computer 1 with a predetermined cable. Therefore, the computer 1 can transmit / receive data to / from the card issuing device 2 and the card reading device 3. Here, each apparatus 2 and 3 is demonstrated.
[0021]
The card issuing device 2 is a device that issues a member card C to those who wish to become members among customers in the store. The card issuing device 2 is provided with a predetermined input device and a monitor (not shown). The customer can input his / her information using an input device and a monitor. However, it may be input using the computer 1.
[0022]
Then, the card issuing device 2 delivers input information from the customer to the computer. As a result, the customer is registered as a member in the computer 1 as will be described later, and a member code (ID) is assigned to each member. The card issuing device 2 receives this ID, stores the ID in the member card C, and issues the card C (card issuing function). For example, the member card C is formed of a magnetic card, and data is stored at the magnetic stripe. The stored data may include a family code, a password, a membership code (ID), and the password, which will be described later.
[0023]
The card reader 3 reads the information stored in the membership card C. That is, the information stored in the magnetic stripe of the card C set in the card reader 3 is read. The read information is transmitted to the computer 1 to authenticate the member who owns the card C.
[0024]
Specifically, a processing instruction to the computer 1 is performed by a store clerk or the like. For example, when a member purchases a product at the store, the store clerk inputs a card reading command to the computer 1 and sets the card C brought by the member into the card reading device 3. At this time, when reading the card C, the member is required to input a password. The member inputs the password into the computer 1 or uses a predetermined input device (a device (not shown) connected to the computer 1) provided by the store clerk. Thereby, it can prevent that the person who picked up the card uses other people's points without permission. Then, the member 1 is authenticated by the computer 1 from the ID and password read from the card C, as will be described later.
[0025]
When the computer 1 authenticates that the person who inserted the card C is a member, the store clerk asks the member whether or not to use points for settlement. Then, when accumulating points, or when allocating already accumulated points to settlement, the store clerk inputs a command to that effect to the computer 1. The computer 1 executes processing as described below according to each command.
[0026]
Here, the description returns to the computer 1. The computer 1 is configured to operate a predetermined operating system, and has the following functions by executing a predetermined program on the system. That is, the computer 1 executes a program stored in advance in the storage device 11, ROM, or the like, so that the following functions are constructed in the CPU and the functions are activated.
[0027]
First, the computer 1 assigns points for each member based on the member registration function 12 for performing membership registration based on the customer information input from the card issuing device 2 and the information on the store usage status input to the computer 1. And a point management function 13 for managing them.
[0028]
The member registration function 12 registers information of a customer who newly registers a member in the member database 17 in the storage device 11. Specifically, the function operates as follows. First, the membership agreement is displayed on the card issuing device 2, and the customer is requested to consent. If consent is obtained, request the customer's own data. At this time, the requested data includes name, age, contact information (e-mail, address, telephone, etc.). The information is received from the card issuing device 2, and an ID (for example, a 5-digit number) that is a member code that does not overlap with other members is issued to the customer.
[0029]
At this time, the customer is also asked for a family code. Here, the family code is a code assigned to each family group which is one form of a group in which a plurality of members are grouped. Therefore, when there is a person who is already a member in the family (relatives), the family code and password that are known in advance from the person are input to the card issuing device 2. If the family group already exists, the customer joins the family group and becomes a new member. Otherwise, the computer 1 assigns a new family code (for example, four letters). Issue. At this time, as will be described later, a new family group is formed even if only one person is presently present.
[0030]
Thereafter, the card issuing device 2 stores predetermined information in the magnetic card and issues a membership card. As described above, the computer 1 has a function of issuing an ID and a family code, that is, a member (customer) and a group (family) of which the member is a member based on member information (customer information). An identification information setting function for setting identification information (ID, family code) is provided.
[0031]
The point management function 13 is a function for managing points for each member as in the conventional example. That is, first, authenticating a member based on information read from a card presented when the member made a purchase of a predetermined product at the store, and adding or subtracting points according to the purchase amount The function to execute. Further, as described above, first, as described above, the member information read from the card reader 3 and the password input from the member are matched with each other whether or not the member is stored in the member database 17. If there is data in which the ID in the member information matches the input password, it is determined that the customer who brought the card is a member. Then, point data of the member, data of a group in which the member is a member, and the like are extracted.
[0032]
At this time, an area for storing the points for each member is provided in the member database 17, and the current number of points is stored in the area. Then, the purchase amount input to the computer 1 by the store clerk is converted into points accumulated in the computer 1, and similarly, based on information on whether or not the member input by the store clerk accumulates points. The following processing is performed. When accumulating points, the converted number of points is added. When using, the number of points used is subtracted to update the number of points for each member. However, even if points are used, points corresponding to the purchase amount may be accumulated. Here, for example, when accumulating points, 10% of the purchase amount is regarded as points, and when used, the value of the points is left as it is, and the amount is discounted with the unit as yen. In this way, customers who make daily purchases at the store will receive the same service as receiving a 10% discount.
[0033]
Further, the computer 1 combines a member into a predetermined group based on the member information and manages it as a member of the group, a group management function 15 that counts the points of the members in the group, The group point management function 16 is provided for managing the points so that any of the members in the group can use the points in the group.
[0034]
The group management function 14 is a function for collecting members in a predetermined group and managing them hierarchically. The concept is shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the positions of the members stored in the member database 17. Here, a member is expressed as a family member, and a group in which a plurality of family members are combined is referred to as a family group. Then, a larger group including a plurality of family groups is defined as a relative group. Thus, family members a and b are members of family group A, and similarly, family group B is formed. Family group A and family group B are members of a relative group α, which is a larger group. In addition, although the group which grouped the relative group further is not shown here, you may form the friend group which has a plurality of relative groups as the upper group. That is, the group structure may have any number of layers.
[0035]
Here, an actual data storage example of the hierarchized member database 17 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3A is an explanatory diagram showing a table that summarizes family groups, and FIG. 3B is an explanatory diagram that shows a table that summarizes relatives groups. As shown in FIG. 3A, family members that are members included in a predetermined family group are stored in a table of one family code “aaaa”. The record in this table stores data such as each family member “11111”. At this time, the ID, password, point, notification destination, etc. for each family member are stored. Further, as shown in FIG. 3B, the family groups are further stored in a table of relative groups to which each belongs. For example, the family group with the family code “aaaa” is stored in the relative group table with the relative code “AAAA”. Each record stores family group information, such as a family code, a password, and points of all members of the family group.
[0036]
Thus, the member database 17 constitutes a relational database, and each data is stored in association with each other. Therefore, even if the number of members increases later, each member data may be stored in a predetermined table. Thereby, since it is possible to easily search which member belongs to which group, it is possible to speed up the data search.
[0037]
The group point totaling function 15 totals the points of all members of a predetermined group and stores them in a predetermined area in the storage device 11. For example, first, the number of points stored in the point field of each family member record included in the family group table of the family code “aaaa” shown in FIG. This point number is extracted for all family members. Thereafter, the total number of points of all the extracted family members is totaled, and the total points for each family are stored in a point totaling table (not shown). This point totaling table is formed in the storage device 11 as a part of the member database 17. In addition, since the point for every family code is stored in the relative table when there is a relative group table as described above, the point aggregation table may not be formed. However, the point totaling table for the highest group is always formed. That is, a table for storing the points of the relative code “AAAA” is formed in the member database 17 although not shown.
[0038]
Here, the group point totaling function operates when points are added to any member. That is, when a predetermined family member purchases a product at a predetermined store and receives an input to accumulate points, the point of the family member is updated. And when this update is detected, the points as the family group which is the upper group are totaled.
[0039]
The group point management function 16 is a function for managing member point usage based on the above-described point management function. That is, the function of authenticating a member and managing the points of each member is as described above. This function is a function that performs the following operations.
[0040]
When a member receives a discount by assigning points that have already been accumulated to a part of the purchase amount, the member first subtracts from the number of points. When the number of points is less than the purchase amount, or when information indicating that more points are used is input to the computer 1 by the will of the member, the member of the group of which the member is a member Points are assigned. Therefore, the group point is subtracted. Accordingly, the subtraction of the group point becomes a burden on the other members of the group. For example, the subtraction is uniformly distributed and subtracted from each member. Thereafter, the database is updated.
[0041]
Here, the case where the group point management function is a function that uses a group point when a member's own point that actually uses the point disappears is exemplified, but the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto. Instead of using one's own points preferentially, it may operate to use group points when using points. And the amount of subtraction of points by use is not limited to being uniformly distributed and subtracted from each member. It is only necessary to subtract from the points of the person who has accumulated the most points, and finally subtract the used points.
[0042]
In addition, the group points that can be used by each member may be set in advance such that a part of the group points, for example, 50% of the group points, and the group points may be used within such a range. This is because the accumulated points are different for each member, so that the disadvantage of those who have accumulated many points is reduced. That is, even if a predetermined member frequently uses the store and accumulates a lot of points, if another member uses a lot of the points, the predetermined member suffers a significant disadvantage.
[0043]
Further, the group points may be managed by collecting some points of the members of the group. Each member can suppress unfairness among members because only a part of his / her point is used as a group point by other members. For example, 10% of the points acquired at once are totaled as group points.
[0044]
Here, an example of a program for realizing the above functions will be shown. It stores a member's information and forms a predetermined group consisting of members who are members based on the member information, a point counting process that counts the points of the members in the group, This is a point management program for controlling the operation of the computer 2 so as to execute a group point management process for managing the aggregated group unit points so that any member in the group can use the points. . As described above, such a program may be stored in the storage device 11 or the like, but is stored in a portable medium such as a CD-ROM and read from the medium or on the network N. It may be downloaded from another computer and incorporated in the computer 1.
[0045]
(Operation)
Next, the operation in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation when a card is issued, and FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation when a card is used by a member.
[0046]
First, the operation when issuing a card will be described. A customer who visits a predetermined store and desires to become a member operates the card issuing device 2. The member's terms are displayed on the display screen of the card issuing device 2 (step S1). If the customer agrees with the terms, the customer presses the “Agree” button. At this time, the button is displayed on the screen of the card issuing device 2 and is a touch panel type.
[0047]
Subsequently, a screen requesting the customer to input member information is displayed on the display screen, and the customer inputs member information according to the screen (step S2). This input information is transmitted to the computer 1. In the computer 1, an ID given to each member is issued (step S3). This ID is unique for each member, may be randomly generated, or may be a series of serial numbers. This ID is temporarily stored in the RAM or register of the computer 1.
[0048]
Subsequently, the computer 1 requests the customer to input a family code via the display screen of the card issuing device 2 (step S4). If the customer's family is already a member, the family code and password can be heard from the family member, so that the family code and the like can be input (step S5). Also at this time, it is possible to input by directly operating the touch panel display screen. This is done when a customer who is currently enrolling wants to become a member of an existing family group.
[0049]
Subsequently, based on the input family code and password, the existence of the family group is checked by the computer 1 (steps S6 and S7). When the family group can be searched from the member database 17, the computer 1 asks the customer whether to join the family group (step S8). This is also via the display device of the card issuing device 2. At this time, if the customer wishes to join the family group, the member ID issued in step S3 is associated with the family code (step S10). That is, the ID of the new member is stored as a record in the family code table, and each field item such as a notification destination of the member having the ID is stored. That is, it is registered in the member database 17 built in the storage device 11 of the computer 1 (step S11).
[0050]
Here, when the customer does not have the family code in step S4, the customer presses the “no family code” button displayed on the display screen. Then, a signal to that effect is transmitted to the computer 1, and a new family code is issued by the computer 1 (step S9). Along with this, a record is formed in a new family group having this customer as the first member, that is, in the member database 17. In step S8, when the customer does not become a member of an existing family group and a new family group is formed, the process proceeds to step S9 and a new family code is issued. Thereafter, similarly to the above, the family code and the member ID are associated and registered in the database (steps S10 and S11).
[0051]
After the member information of the new member is registered in the database 17, the family code and ID are transmitted to the card issuing device 2, and information such as ID is stored in the magnetic card which is the member card C in the card issuing device 2. (Step S12). Then, a membership card C is issued (step S13), and is handed over to the member.
[0052]
Next, the operation when a person who has become a member of a predetermined store and has a card C as described above has visited the store will be described. First, the member who has visited the store inserts the card C into the card reader 3 and inputs the password. Then, the card reader 3 reads the member's family code, ID, etc. stored in the magnetic stripe portion of the card C (step S21) and receives the input password. Subsequently, the ID, password, and the like are transmitted to the computer 1, and the computer 1 makes an inquiry (step S22). The inquiry is performed by referring to the member database 17 and matching (step S23). At this time, if it does not match the member information in the member database 17, it is determined that the customer visiting the store is not a member, and the processing is terminated. On the other hand, if they match, information indicating that the customer is a member is displayed on the computer 1, and the store clerk recognizes this.
[0053]
For members, the store clerk takes the following actions. First, the member is asked whether or not to purchase a product (step S24). When a member purchases a product, the store clerk inputs the amount of the product into the computer 1 and makes a settlement. At this time, the store clerk asks the member whether to accumulate points or to use points already accumulated (step S25). Then, when accumulating points, the store clerk inputs information to that effect into the computer 1 so that the purchase amount is converted into points by the computer 1. For example, the points are 5% of the amount of money, and when shopping for 10000 yen, 500 points are converted as accumulated points. On the other hand, as will be described later, when points are used for settlement, 500 points corresponds to 500 yen.
[0054]
Subsequently, the number of points is added and updated by the computer 1 to the points already stored in its own record in the member database 17 (step S33). Thereafter, the group points of the family group to which the member belongs are also counted, and the number of points in the database 17 is updated (step S34).
[0055]
Here, in step S25, when the member wishes to use points for settlement, that is, to assign points to a part of the payment amount, the computer 1 first stores the self accumulated so far. Are subtracted (step S26). For example, when 1000 points are accumulated, a discount of 1000 yen can be obtained. At this time, the point of the member is subtracted and the family point is also recounted.
[0056]
Subsequently, if the point is not enough to be allocated to the payment (step S27), the group point of the family group to which this member belongs is extracted (step S28). Some or all of them are allocated to payment. At this time, the number of points in the database 17 is subtracted and updated. Of course, the group points are subtracted (step S29), and at the same time, the number of subtracted points is allocated to each member. The number of points of each member is also subtracted and updated (step S30). If the payment amount is still insufficient (step S31), the member pays the balance in cash (step S32). Although not shown, points of a relative group that is a higher group may be used.
[0057]
Subsequently, after the settlement is completed, the store clerk inputs information to that effect into the computer 1, so that the computer 1 outputs the data, for example, the amount of the purchased product, the current member accumulation point, the group Points and the like are extracted from the storage device 11 (step S36) and output to the receipt (step S37). As a result, the member can know the current number of points and can make the next purchase plan.
[0058]
Here, in step S24, when the member who has visited the store does not purchase the product but only confirms the accumulation point (step S35), the store clerk inputs the information to that effect to the computer 1. The member 1 and group points are extracted by the computer 1 (step S36). After that, although the product has not been purchased, the current point is output on a paper such as a receipt and handed over to the member.
[0059]
Note that the computer 1 may have a function of periodically notifying the member contact information registered in the member database 17 of the number of accumulated points of the member or group. For example, when a member has registered his / her own e-mail address in advance, an e-mail notifying the number of points is transmitted from the computer 1 to the address destination. As a result, it is possible to know that other members have used the points among the members of the group to which they belong, and it is possible to make a later point use plan.
[0060]
By doing in this way, the member can share the point which can receive provision of a predetermined service in the said group by forming a group with a family etc. Therefore, accumulation of points is facilitated, and the possibility of receiving a predetermined service at the accumulated points is improved. Along with this, it is possible to stir up the member's willingness to accumulate points, promote the visit of the member to the store, and improve the sales of the store.
[0061]
<Second Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the second embodiment, and FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram showing the operation.
[0062]
(Constitution)
As shown in FIG. 6, the point management system in the second embodiment includes store terminals 5 and 6 included in predetermined stores T1 and 2 connected via a network N, and stores among the store customers. A management server 4 is provided that stores information on members who are given a predetermined point when used and who can obtain a predetermined privilege at the point. The card issuing device 52 is connected to the store terminal 5 and issues a card C capable of storing information of a predetermined capacity. The information stored in the card C is read and the read information is stored in the store terminals 5 and 6. The card readers 51 and 61 are provided. Details will be described below.
[0063]
The store terminals 5 and 6 are personal computers provided in predetermined stores T1 and T2. It is desirable that this computer also functions as a cash register. The shop terminals 5 and 6 are connected to the network N and can communicate with the management server 4 described later. That is, the store terminals 5 and 6 are provided with communication means.
[0064]
Further, the card issuing device 52 and the card reading devices 51 and 61 described in the first embodiment are connected to the store terminals 5 and 6. However, the card issuing device 52 is not limited to being provided in all stores. In the example of FIG. 6, it is connected only to the store of the code | symbol T1, ie, the shop terminal of the code | symbol 5. FIG.
[0065]
Here, the stores T1 and T2 are stores that adopt a common membership system. Thereby, the member who became a member can receive provision of the service by points, even if it purchases goods in any store. Therefore, it is desirable that card readers are installed in all the stores T1 and T2 so that points can be accumulated and used. However, even if the member registration procedure can be performed only at the predetermined store T1, there is no significant inconvenience. Rather, equipment costs can be saved.
[0066]
The store terminals 5 and 6 mediate transmission / reception of predetermined information between the card issuing device 52 and the card reading devices 51 and 61 and the management server 4. For this reason, the card issuing device 52 has a member information transmission function for transmitting the information input to the card issuing device 52 to the management server 4 via the store terminal 5, and the members and groups set in the management server 4. And a card issuing function for issuing a membership card by storing each identification information in the card C. However, these functions are almost the same as the operations performed on the computer 1 by the card issuing device 2 in the first embodiment described above. Similarly, the card readers 51 and 61 perform the same operation as that performed on the computer 1 to the management server 4 via the store terminals 5 and 6.
[0067]
The store terminals 5 and 6 also have a point notification function for notifying members of the number of points received from the management server 4. As described in the first embodiment, this is the same operation as when the computer 1 outputs a receipt in which the number of points is described.
[0068]
The management server 4 is a server computer having an arithmetic device (not shown) and a storage device 41. The management server 4 is provided with communication means and can communicate with store terminals 5 and 6 which are other computers on the network N. In particular, the server 4 is always connected on the network and always allows access from the store terminals 5 and 6.
[0069]
The management server 4 operates in substantially the same manner as the computer 1 in the first embodiment described above. That is, in the first embodiment, predetermined information is exchanged with the card issuing device 2 and the card reading device 3 directly connected to the computer 1, but in this embodiment, the management server 4 is connected to the network N and the store. It operates to exchange information with the card readers 51, 61, etc. via the terminals 5, 6. Therefore, the management server 4 includes the above-described member registration function, a point management function for managing points for each member based on information on the store usage status of the members transmitted to the management server 4 from the store terminals T1 and T2. A group management function for collecting members into a predetermined group based on the member information transmitted from the store terminal 5 and managing them as a member of the group, and a group point counting function for counting the points of the members in the group; The group point management function for managing the points so that any member in the group can use the points of the aggregated group unit, and the member and the member based on the member information An identification information setting function for setting information for identifying a group and transmitting the information to the card issuing device 52 That. These functions are substantially the same as the functions of the computer 1 described above.
[0070]
Furthermore, the management server 4 has a point transmission function for transmitting the number of points of the member and the group of which the member is a member to the store terminals 5 and 6 when the member uses the store. This point transmission function transmits the number of points of the member or the group notified to the member who goes to the stores T1 and T2 and performs shopping or confirms the points to the store terminals T1 and T2. . Then, at the store terminals 5 and 6, the number of points is printed on a receipt or the like, and the receipt is notified to the member by handing it to the member.
[0071]
Here, each function of the management server 4 is constructed by executing a predetermined program stored in the storage device 41 or the ROM in the management server 4 by the CPU as the arithmetic unit. And can be realized.
[0072]
Further, in the storage device 41 of the management server 4 described above, a database 42 substantially the same as the member database 17 in the first embodiment is constructed. The data structure of the database 42 is the same as that shown in FIGS.
[0073]
(Operation)
Next, the operation in this embodiment will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG. In this figure, processing from step S101 to step S107 indicates processing at the time of card issuance, and processing from step S108 to step S116 indicates processing at the time of card use.
[0074]
First, in order for the customer to become a new member, the customer goes to the store T1 provided with the card issuing device 52. Therefore, in accordance with the instruction on the display screen of the card issuing device 52, predetermined information such as the customer's name or family code is input (step S101). These pieces of information are transmitted to the management server 4 via the store terminal 5 (step S102).
[0075]
Subsequently, the management server 4 issues a member ID (step S103). If no family code is input, a new family code is also issued. Then, the ID and a group corresponding to the family code (or an existing group corresponding to the code when the customer inputs the code) are associated with each other and registered in the member database 42 (step S104). At the same time, the ID and family code are transmitted from the management server 4 to the store terminal 5 (step S105). In response to this, the store terminal 5 transmits the ID and family code together with the card issuing command to the card issuing device 52 (step S106). Then, the card issuing device 52 stores the ID and the like in the card C and issues the card C (step S107). In this way, the customer can become a member and obtain the card C.
[0076]
When the member brings the card C to the stores T1 and T2 and performs shopping at a later date, the card C is first inserted into the card readers 51 and 61 (step S108). The card readers 51 and 61 read the member ID, family code, and the like stored in the magnetic part of the card C, and transmit the data to the store terminals 5 and 6 (step S109). At this time, the store clerk requests the member to input a password, for example, through the store terminals 5 and 6. Then, the store terminals 5 and 6 transmit the input password to the management server 4 together with the ID received from the card readers 51 and 61, and request introduction of members (step S110).
[0077]
The management server 4 performs matching with the information in the database 42, and if there is matching member data, notifies the store terminals 5 and 6 that the member is a member (step S111). Thereafter, when the member purchases a predetermined product, the store clerk inputs the purchase amount into the store terminals 5 and 6 (step S112). At this time, the store clerk asks the member whether to accumulate points or use the accumulated points, and inputs the answer to the store terminals 5 and 6. Then, this information and purchase price information are transmitted to the management server 4.
[0078]
In the management server 4, the point settlement is executed (step S113), and the point numerical value in the database 42 is updated (step S114). That is, when accumulating points, the points of the member are added and the group points are totaled and a new numerical value is stored. When using points, a predetermined point is subtracted, and the points of all members in the group are settled accordingly.
[0079]
Then, the number of points of the member and the number of points of the group to which the member belongs are notified to the store terminals 5 and 6 (step S115). At the store terminals 5 and 6, the number of points is stamped on a receipt or the like and handed to the member by the store clerk.
[0080]
By doing in this way, a plurality of stores can cooperate and adopt a membership system, and a member can also perform shopping at these plurality of stores and can easily accumulate points. For this reason, points can be used by a plurality of stores, and the customer can use the stores for convenience, so that the sales of the affiliated stores as a whole can be improved. Similarly to the above, when a member is identified by a card, points can be used with a single card at a plurality of stores, so that the convenience of the member is improved and the management on the store side is further improved. It becomes easy.
[0081]
<Third Embodiment>
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The point management system in the third embodiment does not include the card issuing devices 2 and 52 and the card reading devices 51 and 61 shown in the first and second embodiments described above. That is, the membership is not managed by the card.
[0082]
In the present embodiment, the store clerk inputs the ID or password notified or presented by the member to the computer 1 or the store terminals 5 and 6 and inquires the computer 1 or the management server 4 for it. As in the above embodiment, point management is performed by the computer 1 or the management server 4.
[0083]
Even if it does in this way, since it has the effect as mentioned above and can aim at reduction of equipment cost, the spread of the system can be aimed at.
[0084]
【The invention's effect】
Since the present invention is configured and functions as described above, according to this, a plurality of members form a family or a group having a predetermined relationship, so that points are accumulated in groups using stores. Since points can be used to receive a predetermined service such as a discount on a group basis, the points can be easily accumulated and the use of points can be promoted. Therefore, there is an unprecedented excellent effect that the opportunity for the member to use the store increases and the sales of the store can be increased.
[0085]
Also, if the same point system is provided at multiple stores, points can be accumulated more easily because members can accumulate points regardless of which store they use. Further, it is possible to increase the willingness of members to visit the store and increase the sales of the store. Since stores in various industries cooperate with each other to provide a point system, the members can use the stores differently as necessary, so that the convenience of the members to be used can be improved.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration in a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a hierarchical structure of groups formed by members.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a data structure stored in a member database. FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a data structure of a family group, and FIG. 3B is a diagram showing a data structure of a relative group.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation when a card is issued in the first embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation when a member uses a card in the first embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration in a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram showing an operation in the second embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 computer
2,52 Card issuing device
3, 51, 61 Card reader
4 management server
5,6 Store terminal
11, 41 storage device
13 point management function
14 Group management function
15 Group point totaling function
16 Group point management function
17,42 Member database
C card
N network
T1, T2 store

Claims (14)

A computer that stores information on a member who is a person who is given a predetermined point by using the store among customers of a predetermined store and can obtain a predetermined privilege at the point;
In this point management system provided with a point management function for managing the points for each member based on information on the usage status of the store input to the computer,
A group management function in which the computer collects the members into a predetermined group based on the member information and manages the members as members of the group; and group point management function points aggregated group unit manages the point to be able to use any of the members in the group, together with obtain Bei a,
This group point management function is a function for managing the aggregated group unit points so that the members can use the points when the members of the predetermined group run out of points. Point management system. A card issuing device for issuing a card connected to the computer and capable of storing a predetermined amount of information; and a card reading device for reading the information stored in the card and delivering the read information to the computer. ,
The computer includes an identification information setting function for setting information for identifying the member and the group of which the member is a member based on the member information,
The point management system according to claim 1, wherein the card issuing device has a card issuing function for storing identification information between the member and the group in a predetermined card and issuing a member card. A person who is given a predetermined point by using the store among the store terminal of the predetermined store and a customer of the store connected through the network and can obtain a predetermined privilege at the point A management server for storing information about a member,
In the point management system provided with a point management function in which the management server manages the points for each member based on the information on the store usage status of the member transmitted from the store terminal to the management server,
The management server collects the members as a member of the group by collecting the members into a predetermined group based on the member information transmitted from the store terminal, and counts the points of the members in the group Rutotomoni comprising a group point aggregator, a group point management function for managing the point to the point of the aggregated group unit can utilize any of the members in the group, and
This group point management function is a function for managing the aggregated group unit points so that the members can use the points when the members of the predetermined group run out of points. Point management system. A card issuing device that is connected to the store terminal and issues a card capable of storing a predetermined amount of information; a card reading device that reads the information stored in the card and delivers the read information to the store terminal; With
The management server has an identification information setting function for setting information for identifying the member and the group of which the member is a member based on the member information and transmitting the information to the card issuing device,
The card issuing device includes a member information transmission function for transmitting information input to the card issuing device to the management server via the store terminal, and identification of the member and the group set by the management server 4. The point management system according to claim 3, further comprising a card issuing function for storing information in each card and issuing a membership card. The management server includes a point transmission function for transmitting the number of points of the member and the group of which the member is a member to the store terminal when the member uses the store,
The point management system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the store terminal has a point notification function for notifying the member of the number of points received from the management server. The said group point management function allocates the subtraction part of the point of the said group unit to each other member of the said group, and subtracts the number of points of each said member, The 1, 2 characterized by the above-mentioned. The point management system according to 3, 4 or 5. The Group point management functions, claim 1, 2, 3, 4, characterized in that a part of the point before Symbol aggregated group unit is a function of managing to be able to the member is available, The point management system according to 5 or 6 .   The said group point totaling function is a function which totals a part of point of each member of the said group, and makes it a group point, The 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 characterized by the above-mentioned. Point management system.   9. The point management system according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined group is a family unit group.   The point management system according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9, wherein the members of the group include other groups.   The minimum unit of the predetermined group is a group of family units, and a group of relative units is formed as the group including the family unit group as a member. Point management system. A point management method for managing the points of a member who is a person who is given a predetermined point by using the store and can obtain a predetermined privilege by using the store among the customers of the predetermined store by a computer There,
A group forming step in which the computer stores information on the member and forms a predetermined group of members that are the members based on the member information; and the computer determines points of the members in the group. and point aggregation step of aggregating, e Bei and a group point management step that manages to point the aggregated group unit can utilize any of the members in the group,
In this group point management step, the computer manages the members of the predetermined group so that the members can use the tabulated points of the group when the points of the members disappear. A feature point management method. The group point management step is characterized in that the computer allocates a subtraction of the group unit points to each other member of the group and subtracts the number of points of each member. 12. The point management method according to 12. In Turkey computer to manage the membership said point of one who can obtain certain benefits at a predetermined point that point is provided by utilizing the store of customer Jo Tokoro store,
Group forming means for storing the member information and forming a predetermined group composed of members that are the plurality of members based on the member information; and point counting means for counting the points of the members in the group; , Managing the points of the aggregated group units so that any member in the group can use the points, and the aggregated group units when the points of the members of the predetermined group disappear Group point management means for managing the points so that the member can use the points ,
Point management program to execute .

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