JP7844875B2 - Improvement support device, improvement support method, and program - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to improvement support devices, etc.

Supermarkets, convenience stores, and other businesses operated by the same company may have multiple locations, and each location may be evaluated individually.

For example, there is a technology that extracts stores with similar attributes to the store making the inquiry, identifies stores with a history of achieving the goals included in the inquiry, and extracts the measures implemented by stores that achieved sales targets, etc. (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Furthermore, there are techniques for extracting several similar stores with similar location conditions and excellent sales performance (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-101260 Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-077139

For example, a supervisor overseeing multiple stores might evaluate each store and use the evaluation results to improve store operations. However, even if the supervisor proposes improvement measures to each store, the intention behind the improvements may not be easily communicated to the store staff, making it difficult to improve store operations.

One example of the purpose of this disclosure is to provide improvement support devices and other equipment that facilitate the improvement of store operations.

An improvement support device in one aspect of this disclosure comprises: an evaluation item receiving means for receiving target evaluation items at target stores; a store identification means for identifying stores where the evaluation values of the evaluation items received at multiple different evaluation periods have fluctuated; and an output control means for outputting values of sales-related indicators at the identified stores.

One aspect of this disclosure describes an improvement support method in which a computer receives target evaluation items at target stores, identifies stores where the evaluation values of the evaluation items received at multiple different evaluation periods have fluctuated, and outputs values for sales-related indicators at the identified stores.

A program in one aspect of this disclosure causes a computer to perform a process that involves receiving target evaluation items at target stores, identifying stores where the evaluation values of the evaluation items received at multiple different evaluation periods have fluctuated, and outputting values of sales-related indicators at the identified stores.

The program may be stored on a non-temporary storage medium that is readable by the computer.

This disclosure will facilitate the improvement of store operations.

This is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the improvement support device according to Embodiment 1. This is a flowchart showing an example of operation of the improvement support device according to Embodiment 1. This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a supervisor overseeing multiple stores. This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of connecting an improvement support device and a terminal device. This is a block diagram showing one example configuration of the improvement support device according to Embodiment 2. This is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a terminal device according to Embodiment 2. This is an explanatory diagram showing examples of evaluation item selections. This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of specifying conditions for the values of indicators that identify a store. This is an explanatory diagram illustrating Example 1, which shows the changes in the values of sales-related indicators at a specific store. This is an explanatory diagram illustrating Example 2, which shows the changes in the values of sales indicators at a specific store. This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying evaluation items that have an impact on sales improvement, in addition to the selected evaluation items. This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of how to display the indicator values for the target store and similar stores. This is an explanatory diagram showing example 2 of displaying the indicator values for the target store and similar stores. This is an explanatory diagram showing examples of how to display the indicator values and evaluation values for the target store and similar stores. This is a flowchart showing an example of operation 1 of the improvement support device according to Embodiment 2. This is a flowchart showing an example of operation 2 of the improvement support device according to Embodiment 2. This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a computer hardware configuration.

The following describes in detail embodiments of the improvement support device, improvement support method, program, and non-temporary recording medium for recording the program according to this disclosure, with reference to the drawings. These embodiments are not intended to limit the disclosed technology.

(Embodiment 1)
First, the basic functions of the improvement support device in Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the improvement support device according to Embodiment 1. The improvement support device 10 comprises an evaluation item receiving unit 101, a store identification unit 102, and an output control unit 103.

The evaluation item reception unit 101 receives evaluation items that are subject to improvement at the target store.

Here, "stores" may include, for example, supermarkets, supercenters, convenience stores, mass retailers, home improvement stores, drugstores, apparel stores, and individual shops such as bakeries and delicatessens; they are not particularly limited to such stores.

The evaluation criteria are not particularly limited. Each evaluation criterion may be set up separately for the store manager, individual staff members, etc. For example, evaluation criteria could include items related to customer service and greetings, items related to the store's aesthetics such as brightness and cleanliness, items related to product display, items related to management, items related to hygiene, items related to the management of promotional materials, and items related to advertising placed in and outside the store.

Items related to customer service and greetings include greeting customers, greetings between employees, reading out product names when registering them in the product registration system, and speaking to customers.

Items related to the aesthetic appearance of the store include: measurement results of illumination in different areas, degree of cleanliness, whether there are objects in the aisles, whether there is dust on the merchandise, cleanliness of refrigerators and freezers, odors in refrigerators and freezers, and frost in refrigerators and freezers.

Items related to product display include fronting products, displaying expired products, and displaying items that are out of stock on shelves.

Management-related items include thorough budgeting, performance review, sales plan explanation, performance review, and ease of consultation for staff.

Items related to sanitation include those concerning personal grooming, handwashing, and the provision of disinfectant.

The items related to advertisements placed in stores and within the store include those concerning how the advertisements are placed, their placement, and whether they are expired. The format of the evaluation value, which represents the evaluation result for each evaluation item, is not particularly limited, as long as it allows for the identification of good or bad evaluations and the identification of changes in the evaluation quality. The format of the evaluation value may differ depending on the evaluation item.

Next, we will explain in detail an example of how the evaluation item reception unit 101 receives the specification of evaluation items. Specifically, for example, the evaluation item reception unit 101 receives the specification of evaluation items through user operation on a terminal device. Users may include, for example, supervisors overseeing multiple stores, store managers, or store employees.

The store identification unit 102 identifies stores where the evaluation values of evaluation items received at multiple different evaluation periods have fluctuated. Here, "evaluation period" refers to the time when the evaluation was conducted. For example, if evaluations were conducted in January 2021 and December 2021, there are evaluation values for the evaluation items for each period. For example, the store identification unit 102 determines that the evaluation value has fluctuated if there is a change of more than a predetermined value between the evaluation value in January 2021 and the evaluation value in December 2021. For example, the store identification unit 102 determines that the evaluation value has not fluctuated if there is no change of more than a predetermined value between the evaluation value in January 2021 and the evaluation value in December 2021. The predetermined value may be set in advance or specified by the user.

The output control unit 103 outputs values for sales-related indicators at the specified store. Examples of sales-related indicators include, for example, the number of customers, sales, sales per square foot, labor productivity per hour, budget progress rate, gross profit, and at least one of the respective target achievement rates. The format in which the indicator values are expressed is not particularly limited, as long as it allows for the identification of improvements or deteriorations in the indicators. Furthermore, the format in which the indicator values are expressed may differ depending on the indicator.

Specifically, for example, the output control unit 103 outputs the index value to an output device. The type of output device is not particularly limited; it can be a display device, a speaker, or other audio output device. The output device may be provided in the improvement support device 10, or it may be connected to the improvement support device 10 by wired or wireless connection. Furthermore, the output control unit 103 may cause an output device of another device to output the index value.

Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the improvement support device 10 according to Embodiment 1. The evaluation item reception unit 101 receives evaluation items (step S101). The store identification unit 102 identifies stores where the evaluation values of the evaluation items are fluctuating (step S102). Then, the output control unit 103 outputs the values of the sales indicators for the identified stores (step S103), and the improvement support device 10 terminates processing.

In the first embodiment described above, the improvement support device 10 identifies stores where the evaluation values of the evaluation items to be improved are fluctuating, and outputs the values of the sales indicators for the identified stores. This allows the improvement support device 10 to present the impact of fluctuations in the evaluation values of the evaluation items on sales. Therefore, it facilitates the improvement of store operations.

Furthermore, the improvement support device 10 may be implemented by a single device or by multiple devices. For example, a single server may be configured to include all the functional units of the improvement support device 10. Alternatively, a user-operable terminal device may be configured to include at least some of the functional units of the improvement support device 10.

(Embodiment 2)
Next, Embodiment 2 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Embodiment 2 will describe in detail an example of identifying a store and an example of outputting indicator values. Embodiment 2 will also describe an example in which the improvement support device causes the terminal device to output indicator values. To the extent that the description of Embodiment 2 does not become unclear, explanations that overlap with the above description will be omitted.

Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a supervisor overseeing multiple stores. A supervisor may, for example, oversee multiple stores. In this case, the supervisor may use the evaluation results of each store to consider improvement measures for each store. The evaluator is not particularly limited; it could be a supervisor, store manager, employee, robot, etc. The evaluator conducts evaluations according to predetermined evaluation items. Conducting an evaluation means assigning an evaluation value to each evaluation item. As explained in Embodiment 1, the format of expressing the evaluation values is not particularly limited, as long as it allows for the identification of good or bad evaluations and the identification of changes in good or bad evaluations. For example, the terminal device 21 displays evaluation results, etc., based on the supervisor's operation.

Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of connection between the improvement support device 20 and the terminal device 21. The improvement support device 20 is connected to the terminal device 21, for example, via a communication network. The terminal device 21 is a device that can be operated by the user. The type of terminal device 21 is not particularly limited; it can be a smartphone, a tablet, a PC (Personal Computer), etc.

Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the improvement support device according to Embodiment 2. The improvement support device 20 comprises an evaluation item receiving unit 201, a store identification unit 202, an output control unit 203, an evaluation value fluctuation receiving unit 204, an index receiving unit 205, and an index fluctuation receiving unit 206. Compared to the improvement support device 20 according to Embodiment 1, the improvement support device 20 adds the evaluation value fluctuation receiving unit 204, the index receiving unit 205, and the index fluctuation receiving unit 206. The evaluation item receiving unit 201 has the basic functions of the evaluation item receiving unit 101 in Embodiment 1. The store identification unit 202 has the basic functions of the store identification unit 102 in Embodiment 1. The output control unit 203 has the basic functions of the output control unit 103 in Embodiment 1.

The improvement support device 20 includes a store database 2001, a sales history 2002, and an evaluation history 2003.

The Store DB 2001 stores information about the characteristics of each store. For example, the Store DB 2001 stores information relating the store name to its characteristics for each store identification information. Store characteristics include the store's location, size, product range, customer base, and the number of competing stores. Location can be in front of a train station, a shopping district, an office district, a shop-in-shop, a suburb, or a residential area. A train station and a shopping district may be treated as the same location. An office district is a location where, for example, the number of customers differs between weekdays and weekends. A shop-in-shop is a store operating within a large commercial facility such as a department store or shopping center. In other words, a location being a shop-in-shop indicates that it is located within a large commercial facility. The store's product range may include the types and number of products the store handles. The customer base may be defined by age group, such as office workers, housewives and househusbands, families, singles, the elderly, or young people, or by occupation. The number of competing stores can also be used to indicate the degree of competition.

The sales history 2002 stores the values of sales indicators for each of multiple time periods, for a predetermined period. The "time period" here may be the same as the evaluation period, or a period close to the evaluation period. The predetermined period is not particularly limited to days, weeks, months, etc. The indicators are as described in Embodiment 1 and are not particularly limited.

The evaluation history 2003 stores the evaluation values for each evaluation item for each of multiple time periods. The evaluation items are as described in Embodiment 1 and are not particularly limited.

Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a terminal device 21 according to Embodiment 2. The terminal device 21 comprises an input receiving unit 211 and an output unit 212.

The input receiving unit 211 receives user input to the input device of the terminal device 21. For example, if the input device is a touch panel display, keyboard, mouse, etc., the input receiving unit 211 receives user operations. For example, if the input device is a microphone, the input receiving unit 211 receives user voice input.

The output unit 212 outputs various information to the output device of the terminal device 21. The output device is, for example, a display device, an audio output device, etc., and is not particularly limited. The output unit 212 outputs various information, for example, according to the control of the output control unit 203. The output control unit 203 of the improvement support device 20 may output various information to an output device provided in the improvement support device 20, but as described above, in Embodiment 2, the example of the output control unit 203 causing the terminal device 21 to output various information will be explained.

Returning to the explanation of Figure 5, the evaluation item reception unit 201 accepts the selection of evaluation items through user operation on the terminal device 21. The evaluation item reception unit 201 may accept the selection of multiple evaluation items. For example, if the user is a supervisor, the supervisor can select evaluation items that are likely to be factors contributing to the low sales of the target store. For instance, if the supervisor believes that the disorganized display of merchandise on the shelves in the target store is a factor contributing to low sales, they can select evaluation items related to the disorganized display.

Specifically, the input receiving unit 211 of the terminal device 21 accepts the selection of evaluation items. An example of how the input receiving unit 211 accepts the selection of evaluation items will be explained using Figure 7.

Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of evaluation item selection. The output control unit 203 displays a screen d001 on the terminal device 21 that can accept evaluation items. The output unit 212 then displays this screen d001 on the terminal device 21. In Figure 7, screen d001 has buttons for selecting each of the multiple evaluation items. In Figure 7, an evaluation item related to brightness is selected. Screen d001 also has a "Confirm" button.

For example, when the "Confirm" button is tapped, the input reception unit 211 transmits the selected evaluation items to the improvement support device 20. Transmitting evaluation items means, for example, transmitting identification information that identifies the evaluation items. The evaluation item reception unit 201 then considers receiving the evaluation items from the terminal device 21 as having received the evaluation items.

Next, the store identification unit 202 will be explained. The store identification unit 202 identifies stores where the evaluation values of evaluation items received over multiple evaluation periods have fluctuated. Specifically, for example, the store identification unit 202 identifies stores where the evaluation values of evaluation items received over multiple evaluation periods have fluctuated based on the evaluation history 2003. Here, a fluctuation in the evaluation value of an evaluation item over multiple evaluation periods can mean either an increase in the evaluation value or a decrease in the evaluation value. An increase in the evaluation value indicates improvement in the evaluation item. Conversely, a decrease in the evaluation value indicates no improvement or even a deterioration in the evaluation item. For example, if the evaluation value in October 2021 is higher than the evaluation value in October 2020, it means that the evaluation value of the evaluation item received over multiple evaluation periods has increased. On the other hand, if the evaluation value in October 2021 is lower than the evaluation value in October 2020, it means that the evaluation value of the evaluation item received over multiple evaluation periods has decreased.

When identifying stores with improved evaluation scores, for example, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores where the evaluation scores of evaluation items received over multiple evaluation periods have improved by a predetermined value or more. The predetermined value may be predetermined according to the format of the evaluation score expression, or it may be specified by the user.

Furthermore, if stores with declining evaluation scores are identified, for example, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores where the evaluation scores of evaluation items received at multiple evaluation periods have fallen by a predetermined value or more. The predetermined value may be predetermined according to the format of the evaluation score expression, or it may be specified by the user.

Furthermore, the user may specify whether the store identification unit 202 identifies stores where the evaluation value of an evaluation item has increased, or stores where the evaluation value of an evaluation item has decreased. For example, the evaluation value change receiving unit 204 accepts the user's specification of whether to have the store identification unit 202 identify stores where the evaluation value of an evaluation item has increased, or stores where it has decreased. The evaluation value change receiving unit 204 may accept both options. More specifically, for example, the output control unit 203 may display a screen that accepts the selection of evaluation value change conditions. The output unit 212 then displays this screen. The input receiving unit 211 accepts the selection of the change conditions. The input receiving unit 211 then transmits the selected change conditions to the improvement support device 20. The evaluation value change receiving unit 204 then receives the change conditions, for example. In this way, the evaluation value change receiving unit 204 can accept the selection of change conditions.

Alternatively, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores similar to the target store based on the store database 2001. For example, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores that are similar to the target store in at least one of the following aspects: location, size, product range, customer base, and number of competing stores. Taking location as an example, the store identification unit 202 can identify identification information or store names that correspond to stores located at the same location as the target store included in the store database 2001, based on the store database 2001. This allows the store identification unit 202 to identify stores with similar locations to the target store. Furthermore, the store identification unit 202 can determine the similarity of size, product range, customer base, and number of competing stores by determining whether they fall within a predetermined range based on the characteristics of each of the target stores.

Furthermore, the user may be able to specify the criteria for characteristics such as location, size, product range, customer base, and the number of competing stores.

Furthermore, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores where the indicator value has increased over multiple evaluation periods. Here, an increase in the indicator value indicates an improvement in the indicator. As explained in Embodiment 1, the format of expressing the indicator value is not particularly limited, as long as it allows for the understanding of improvement or deterioration of the indicator. Specifically, for example, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores where the indicator value has improved by a predetermined value or more over multiple evaluation periods, based on the sales history 2002. The predetermined value may be predetermined according to the indicator, or it may be specified by the user. For example, if the indicator value in October 2021 is higher than the indicator value in October 2020 by a predetermined value or more, it means that the evaluation value of the evaluation item received over multiple evaluation periods has increased. Alternatively, the store identification unit 202 may further identify stores where the indicator value is higher than a predetermined value over multiple evaluation periods.

Furthermore, the store identification unit 202 may also identify stores where the indicator value has decreased over multiple evaluation periods. Here, a decrease in the indicator value indicates that the indicator has not improved or has deteriorated. Specifically, for example, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores where the indicator value has decreased by a predetermined value or more over multiple evaluation periods, based on the sales history 2002. The predetermined value may be predetermined according to the indicator, or it may be specified by the user. For example, if the indicator value in October 2021 is lower by a predetermined value or more than the indicator value in October 2020, it means that the indicator value received over multiple evaluation periods has decreased. Alternatively, the store identification unit 202 may further identify stores where the indicator value is lower than a predetermined value over multiple evaluation periods.

Furthermore, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores where the indicator values show little change over multiple evaluation periods. Specifically, for example, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores where the fluctuation range of the indicator values over multiple evaluation periods is below a predetermined value, based on the sales history 2002. The predetermined value may be predetermined according to the indicator, or it may be specified by the user. This makes it possible to identify stores with consistently good sales.

Here, for example, the conditions for the metric value may be specified by user interaction. Figure 8 illustrates an example where the user specifies the conditions for the metric value.

Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of specifying conditions for the values of the indicators that identify a store. The output control unit 203 displays a screen d002 on the terminal device 21 that can accept the specification of conditions for the values of the indicators that identify a store. The output unit 212 displays a screen d002 on the terminal device 21 that can accept the specification of conditions for the values of the indicators that identify a store.

In Figure 8, screen d002 uses sales per square meter as an example of an indicator. Screen d002 has buttons for selecting "Improvement," "Stable," and "Decline." When "Improvement" is selected, the store identification unit 202 identifies stores where the indicator value is improving. When "Stable" is selected, the store identification unit 202 identifies stores where the indicator value is not changing significantly. For example, by identifying stores where the indicator value is above a predetermined value and where the indicator value is not changing significantly, the store identification unit 202 can identify stores that are consistently performing well in terms of sales. When "Decline" is selected, the store identification unit 202 identifies stores where the indicator value is declining. Screen d002 also has a "Confirm" button.

For example, when the "Confirm" button is tapped, the input reception unit 211 transmits the selected conditions to the improvement support device 20.

Furthermore, the indicators that the store identification unit 202 uses to determine changes in value may be specified by the user. The indicator receiving unit 205 accepts the selection of at least some indicators from a plurality of indicators, for example, through user operation on the terminal device 21. More specifically, for example, the output control unit 203 may display a screen that accepts the selection of at least some indicators from a plurality of indicators. The output unit 212 then displays this screen. The input receiving unit 211 accepts the selection of indicators. The input receiving unit 211 then transmits the accepted indicators to the improvement support device 20. The indicator receiving unit 205 then receives the indicators, for example. In this way, the indicator receiving unit 205 can accept the selection of indicators.

<Output regarding identified stores>
The output control unit 203 outputs the value of an indicator related to sales at a specified store. Specifically, for example, the output control unit 203 outputs the value of an indicator related to sales at a specified store for at least one of the evaluation periods of a plurality of evaluation periods. Specifically, for example, the output control unit 203 outputs the value of an indicator related to sales at a specified store for each of the plurality of evaluation periods. More specifically, for example, the output control unit 203 may output a comparison of the values of the indicator related to sales at a specified store for each of the plurality of evaluation periods. That is, the output control unit 203 outputs the change in the value of the sales indicator.

Furthermore, the output control unit 203 may output the evaluation values of the evaluation items received at the specified store, along with the index values.

Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram illustrating Example 1, which displays changes in the values of sales indicators at a specified store. The output control unit 203 displays the changes in the sales indicator values at the specified store, as well as the changes in the evaluation values of the received evaluation items, on the terminal device 21. The output unit 212 displays a screen d101 representing these changes on the terminal device 21.

In Figure 9, the target store is the "Kamata Store," and the identified similar store is the "Omori Store." In Figure 9, screen d101 displays the monthly sales, square footage efficiency, and labor productivity for the "Omori Store" for October 2020 and October 2021, respectively. Additionally, screen d101 displays the evaluation values for the brightness-related evaluation items for the "Omori Store" for October 2020 and October 2021.

This allows users to see the impact on sales due to changes in the evaluation values of the evaluation items they have received.

Furthermore, the output control unit 203 may output the number of identified stores. Also, if stores with improved indicator values are identified, the output control unit 203 may output the number of identified stores and the number of stores among the identified stores whose sales indicator values have met the target, in a comparable manner. As an example of comparable output, the output control unit 203 may output these store numbers in a table or as a graph. The type of graph is not particularly limited and can include bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts, etc.

Furthermore, for example, if the number of stores where the indicator value has decreased is identified, the output control unit 203 may output, in a comparable manner, the number of identified stores and the number of stores among the identified stores where the sales indicator value did not meet the target. Since the comparable output can be the same as the number of stores that met the target, a detailed explanation is omitted.

Furthermore, when the store identification unit 202 identifies multiple stores, the output control unit 203 may output the sales indicator value for at least one of the identified stores. Specifically, for example, the output control unit 203 may output the sales indicator value for the store with the largest fluctuation in the indicator value among the identified stores. More specifically, for example, if a store with an improving indicator value is identified, the output control unit 203 may output the sales indicator value for the store with the greatest improvement among the identified stores.

Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating Example 2, which displays changes in the sales indicator values at identified stores. The example explains the case where stores with improved indicator values are identified. The output control unit 203 displays the changes in the sales indicator values at the identified stores on the terminal device 21. Furthermore, the output control unit 203 displays the number of identified stores and the number of stores among them that have achieved their sales indicator targets on the terminal device 21.

In Figure 10, the target store is the "Kamata Store," and the identified similar store is the "Omori Store." Note that while 30 stores are identified in Figure 10, the "Omori Store" is selected. For example, in Figure 10, screen d102, similar to screen d101 in Figure 9, displays the monthly sales, sales per square foot, and labor productivity for the "Omori Store" for October 2020 and October 2021, respectively.

Furthermore, screen d102 displays the ratio of the number of identified stores that achieved their sales targets to the total number of identified stores. In Figure 10, the number of identified stores is 30, and the number of stores that achieved their targets is 25.

In addition, while Figures 9 and 10 illustrate the example of the output control unit 203 displaying a table of indicator values for each of the multiple evaluation periods for the specified stores, the display method is not particularly limited. For example, the output control unit 203 may display a graph of the indicator values for the specified stores on the terminal device 21.

<Identification and Output of Evaluation Items>
The evaluation item identification unit 207 may identify evaluation items other than the accepted evaluation items that show fluctuations in evaluation values for the identified store across multiple evaluation periods. This makes it possible to identify evaluation items other than the accepted evaluation items that have an impact on sales.

The output control unit 203 then outputs the specified evaluation items. Alternatively, for example, the output control unit 203 may output the evaluation values for the specified evaluation items for each of multiple evaluation periods.

Specifically, for example, if the store identification unit 202 identifies a store where the evaluation value of the received evaluation item has improved and the index value has also improved, the evaluation item identification unit 207 identifies the evaluation items for which the evaluation value has improved at multiple evaluation periods for the identified store. For example, the evaluation item identification unit 207 may identify evaluation items for which the evaluation value has improved by a predetermined value or more at multiple evaluation periods for the identified store. Then, the output control unit 203 outputs the identified evaluation items to the terminal device 21. An example of what the output control unit 203 displays on the display device of the terminal device 21 will be explained using Figure 11.

Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying evaluation items that have an impact on sales improvement in addition to the selected evaluation items. In Figure 11, the output control unit 203 outputs the indicator values for the specified store, along with the evaluation values of the specified evaluation items for each of the multiple evaluation periods, to the terminal device 21. The output unit 212 displays a screen d103 on the terminal device 21, which includes the indicator values for the specified store, the specified evaluation items, and the evaluation values of the evaluation items.

In Figure 11, screen d103 displays evaluation items that have improved, such as "Is the product free of dust, etc.?", "Shelf stockouts", and "Appearance". Furthermore, in Figure 11, screen d103 displays evaluation values for each evaluation item from multiple different evaluation periods.

This allows us to present users with evaluation criteria that have an impact on sales improvement, in addition to the selected evaluation criteria.

On the other hand, returning to the explanation in Figure 5, if the store identification unit 202 identifies a store where the evaluation value of the received evaluation items has decreased and the index value has decreased, the evaluation item identification unit 207 identifies the evaluation items for which the evaluation value has decreased at multiple evaluation periods for the identified store. For example, the evaluation item identification unit 207 may identify evaluation items for which the evaluation value has fallen by a predetermined value or more at multiple evaluation periods for the identified store. Then, the output control unit 203 outputs the identified evaluation items to the terminal device 21.

This allows the system to present users with evaluation criteria that, in addition to the selected criteria, could also impact sales.

<Output a comparison of target stores and identified stores>
The output control unit 203 has been described in an example of outputting indicator values for a specified store. The output control unit 203 may output indicator values for the target store and indicator values for the specified store. The output control unit 203 may output indicator values for the target store and indicator values for the specified store in a comparable manner. As an example of outputting in a comparable manner, for example, the output control unit 203 may output these indicator values in a table or in a graph. The type of graph is not particularly limited and may be a bar graph, line graph, pie chart, etc. The output control unit 203 may output these indicator values side by side or overlay these indicator values.

Furthermore, for example, the output control unit 203 may output the index values for the target stores for at least one of the multiple evaluation periods, and the index values for the specified stores for at least one of the multiple evaluation periods. The output control unit 203 may also output these index values to the terminal device 21 in a comparable manner. An example of outputting in a comparable manner is as described above.

Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram showing example 1 of the display of indicator values for the target store and similar stores. In Figure 12, the output control unit 203 displays the indicator values for the target store and the indicator values for the identified similar store for October 2021 by creating a table. The output unit 212 then outputs screen d104, which displays these values in a table. In Figure 12, the target store is "Kamata Store," and the identified similar store is "Omori Store." In Figure 12, screen d104 displays the monthly sales, tsubo efficiency, and labor productivity for both the similar store "Omori Store" and the target store "Kamata Store" for October 2021.

Figure 12 shows an example where the values for each indicator are displayed in a table on screen d104 for both the target store and similar stores during a specific evaluation period, such as October 2021. However, the values for each indicator may also be displayed on the screen for both the target store and similar stores for each of multiple evaluation periods.

Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram showing example 2 of the display of indicator values for the target store and similar stores. In Figure 12, the output control unit 203 displays the indicator values for the target store and the indicator values for the identified similar stores overlaid on a graph for October 2021. The output unit 212 then outputs a screen d105 showing these values graphed.

In Figure 13, the target store is the "Kamata Store," and the identified similar store is the "Omori Store." In Figure 13, screen d105 displays graphs showing the target achievement rates for monthly sales, sales per square meter, and labor productivity for both the similar store "Omori Store" and the target store "Kamata Store" in October 2021.

Figure 13 shows an example where the target achievement rates for the target store and similar stores at a given evaluation period, such as October 2021, are displayed on screen d105 as overlaid pie charts. Alternatively, the target achievement rates for the target store and similar stores at each of multiple evaluation periods may be graphed and displayed on the screen.

Returning to the explanation in Figure 5, the output control unit 203 may output evaluation values for the target store at at least one of the multiple evaluation periods, and evaluation values for the identified store at at least one of the multiple evaluation periods. The evaluation items here may be the received evaluation items, or the evaluation items identified by the evaluation item identification unit 207. The output control unit 203 may output these evaluation values in a table or as a graph to make them comparable. That is, the output control unit 203 may output these evaluation values side-by-side, or overlay the values of these indicators.

Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram showing examples of how the indicator values and evaluation values are displayed for the target store and similar stores, respectively. Figure 14 explains an example where the evaluation values for the evaluation items identified by the evaluation item identification unit 207 are displayed.

In Figure 14, the output control unit 203 displays the evaluation values for the target store in October 2021, and the evaluation values for similar stores in October 2020 and October 2021, respectively, on the terminal device 21. The output unit 212 displays a screen d106 containing these evaluation values on the terminal device 21.

In Figure 14, screen d106 displays a graph showing the evaluation values for the target store in October 2021. Also in Figure 14, screen d106 displays graphs showing the evaluation values for similar stores in October 2020 and October 2021, respectively. While Figure 14 displays pie charts of evaluation values for each store, the evaluation values could also be overlaid to form a single pie chart.

Furthermore, in Figure 14, screen d106 displays a graph of the indicator values for the target store in October 2021. Also in Figure 14, screen d106 displays graphs of the indicator values for similar stores in October 2020 and October 2021, respectively. While Figure 14 displays pie charts of the indicator values for each store, the indicator values may be overlaid to form a single pie chart.

Thus, the method by which the output control unit 203 displays the index value and evaluation value on the terminal device 21 is not particularly limited.

Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of operation 1 of the improvement support device 20 in Embodiment 2. In operation example 1, the store identification unit 202 identifies stores where the evaluation value of the evaluation item has improved and where the indicator value is continuing to improve.

The evaluation item reception unit 201 accepts the selection of evaluation items based on user input to the terminal device 21 (step S201).

The store identification unit 202 identifies similar stores to the target store (step S202). In step S202, the store identification unit 202 identifies stores that are similar to the target store in at least one of the following characteristics: location, size, product range, customer base, and number of competing stores.

The store identification unit 202 identifies stores among the similar stores identified in step S202 that have shown improvement in the evaluation values of the evaluation items (step S203).

Then, the store identification unit 202 identifies stores from among those identified in step S203 that have shown improvement in their indicator values, and stores where the indicator values should continue to be at a satisfactory level (step S204). In step S204, the store identification unit 202 identifies stores where the indicator values should continue to be at a satisfactory level, for example, stores where the indicator values are above a predetermined value at multiple evaluation periods, and where the fluctuation range of the indicator values at multiple evaluation periods is below a predetermined value. This allows for the identification of similar stores where the evaluation values of the selected evaluation items have improved, and where the sales-related indicator values should continue to improve or remain at a satisfactory level.

The evaluation item identification unit 207 identifies the evaluation items for which the evaluation value has improved for the stores identified in step S204 (step S205).

The output control unit 203 displays the indicator value and the identified evaluation item for the identified store on the terminal device 21 (step S206).

For steps S202 to S204, it is sufficient for the store identification unit 202 to narrow down the stores; the order of processing is not particularly limited.

Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of operation 2 of the improvement support device 20 in Embodiment 2. In this example, the store identification unit 202 identifies stores where the evaluation value of the evaluation item has decreased and the index value has decreased.

Steps S211 and S212 are identical to steps S201 and S202 shown in Figure 15, respectively, and therefore their explanation is omitted.

The store identification unit 202 identifies stores among the similar stores identified in step S212 where the evaluation value of the evaluation item has decreased (step S213). Then, the store identification unit 202 identifies stores among the stores identified in step S213 where the index value has decreased (step S214).

This allows us to identify similar stores where the evaluation values for the selected evaluation items have deteriorated, and where the values for sales-related indicators have also deteriorated.

The evaluation item identification unit 207 identifies the evaluation items for which the evaluation value has improved for the stores identified in step S214 (step S215).

The output control unit 203 displays the indicator value and the identified evaluation item for the identified store on the terminal device 21 (step S216).

For steps S212 to S214, it is sufficient for the store identification unit 202 to narrow down the stores; the order of processing is not particularly limited.

Note that the operation examples are not limited to Operation Example 1 shown in Figure 15 and Operation Example 2 shown in Figure 16. For example, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores where the evaluation value of the evaluation item has improved, but the index value has decreased. For example, the store identification unit 202 may identify stores where the evaluation value of the evaluation item has decreased, but the index value has improved.

Furthermore, as mentioned above, the evaluation value change receiving unit 204 may be able to select whether to identify stores where the evaluation value has improved or stores where it has decreased. Also, as mentioned above, the indicator change receiving unit 206 may be able to select whether to identify stores where the indicator value has improved or stores where it has decreased.

Thus, the examples of operation can be modified in various ways and are not particularly limited.

In the second embodiment described above, the improvement support device 20 identifies stores where the evaluation values of the received evaluation items have improved. This allows the improvement support device 20 to present the impact of improvements in the evaluation items on sales. For example, when a supervisor encourages store employees to improve evaluation items, they can present the sales indicator values of stores where the evaluation items have improved. Therefore, it is possible to facilitate improvements in store operations.

Furthermore, the improvement support device 20 identifies stores where the evaluation values of the received evaluation items have declined. This allows the improvement support device 20 to present the impact on sales due to the deterioration of the evaluation items. For example, when a supervisor encourages store employees to improve evaluation items, they can present the sales indicator values for stores where the evaluation items have deteriorated. Therefore, this facilitates the improvement of store operations.

The improvement support device 20 identifies stores similar to the target store where the evaluation values of the evaluation items are fluctuating. This allows the device to present the sales indicator values of stores similar to the target store. For example, when a supervisor encourages employees at the target store to improve evaluation items, they can present examples from similar stores. Supervisors can easily compare the target store with similar stores, thus facilitating improvements to store operations.

Furthermore, for example, the improvement support device 20 identifies stores whose sales are improving or stores that are consistently performing well. Specifically, for example, the improvement support device 20 identifies stores where the evaluation value of an evaluation item is fluctuating and the indicator value has improved by a predetermined value or more over multiple evaluation periods as stores whose sales are improving. Also, for example, the improvement support device 20 identifies stores where the evaluation value of an evaluation item is fluctuating and the fluctuation range of the indicator value over multiple evaluation periods is below a predetermined value as stores that are consistently performing well.

Furthermore, for example, the improvement support device 20 identifies stores with poor or declining sales. For example, the improvement support device 20 identifies stores where the evaluation values of evaluation items are fluctuating, and where the indicator value has fallen by more than a predetermined value at multiple evaluation periods. The improvement support device 20 also identifies stores where the evaluation values of evaluation items are fluctuating, and where the indicator value has fallen below a predetermined value at multiple evaluation periods.

The evaluation item identification unit 207 identifies evaluation items from among multiple evaluation items other than the received evaluation items, specifically those whose evaluation values have fluctuated across multiple evaluation periods for the identified store. The improvement support device 20 then outputs the identified evaluation items. It can also present evaluation items that affect sales other than the selected evaluation items. For example, a supervisor can identify other evaluation items that should be improved for the target store. Therefore, it can facilitate the improvement of store operations.

Furthermore, the improvement support device 20 may output the indicator values for the identified store and the indicator values for the target store. This allows for a comparison of sales-related indicators between the target store and the identified store.

Furthermore, the improvement support device 20 may output the number of identified stores. This allows the user to check the number of stores whose sales improved due to improvements in evaluation items, and the number of stores whose sales deteriorated due to deterioration in evaluation items.

This concludes the description of each embodiment and its modified form. Note that each embodiment and the modified form described therein may be used in combination. Furthermore, for example, in each embodiment, the improvement support device 20 may include some of the functional units and information.

Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above are not limited to the examples given and can be modified in various ways. Also, the configuration of the improvement support device 20 in each embodiment is not particularly limited. The improvement support device 20 may be implemented by a single device. Alternatively, the improvement support device 20 may be implemented by different devices for different functions or information. Specifically, for example, the improvement support device 20 may be configured as a system using multiple servers.

Furthermore, for example, a single terminal device may include at least a portion of the functional components of the improvement support device described in each embodiment.

Furthermore, in the transmission and reception between devices such as terminal devices and improvement support devices described in each embodiment and modification, the object of transmission and reception may be the information itself, or it may be an identifier representing the information; it is not particularly limited.

In each embodiment and modification, each table and piece of information may include a portion of the aforementioned information. Furthermore, each table and piece of information may include information other than that described above. Each table and piece of information may be further divided into multiple tables or pieces of information. Thus, the method of implementing each table and piece of information is not particularly limited.

Furthermore, each screen is merely an example and not particularly limited. For instance, while buttons are shown as an example of accepting various selections, dropdown lists or checkboxes may also be used, and the examples of displays for accepting various selections are not particularly limited. Also, the position, color, and size of each item such as buttons, input fields, and display fields on each screen are not particularly limited. Buttons, information display fields, input fields, etc., not shown may be added to each screen. The background color of the screen may also be changed.

Furthermore, for example, in each embodiment, the process of generating screen information to be displayed on the display device of the terminal device 21 may be performed by the output control unit 203 of the improvement support device 20, or by the output unit 212 of the terminal device 21. Also, the processing of graphing and table creation may be performed by the output control unit 203, or by the output unit 212.

(Example of computer hardware configuration)
Next, we will describe hardware configuration examples when each device, such as the improvement support device 20 (server) and terminal device 21 described in each embodiment, is implemented using a computer. Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of computer hardware configuration. For example, some or all of each device can be implemented using any combination of computer 80 and program, as shown in Figure 17.

Computer 80 includes, for example, a processor 801, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 802, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 803, and a storage device 804. Computer 80 also includes a communication interface 805 and an input/output interface 806. Each component is connected, for example, via a bus 807. The number of components is not particularly limited; each component may be one or more.

The processor 801 controls the entire computer 80. Examples of processors 801 include a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The number of processors 801 is not particularly limited; there may be one or more processors 801. The computer 80 has memory units such as a ROM 802, RAM 803, and a storage device 804. Examples of storage devices 804 include semiconductor memory such as flash memory, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and an SSD (Solid State Drive). For example, the storage device 804 stores programs for the OS (Operating System), application programs, and programs related to each embodiment. Alternatively, ROM 802 stores application programs, programs related to each embodiment, etc. RAM 803 is used as the work area of processor 801. The number of ROM 802, RAM 803, and storage devices 804 are not particularly limited; each can be one or more.

Furthermore, the processor 801 loads programs stored in the memory device 804, ROM 802, etc. Then, the processor 801 executes each process coded in the program. The processor 801 may also download various programs via a communication network. The processor 801 functions as part or all of the computer 80. The processor 801 may also execute processes or instructions in the illustrated flowchart based on the program.

The communication interface 805 is connected to a communication network NT, such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network), via a wireless or wired communication line. The communication network may consist of multiple communication networks. This allows the computer 80 to connect to external devices and external computers 80 via the communication network. The communication interface 805 manages the interface between the communication network NT and the internal workings of the computer 80. Furthermore, the communication interface 805 controls the input and output of data from external devices and external computers 80.

Furthermore, the input/output interface 806 is connected to at least one of the input device, output device, and input/output device. The connection method may be wireless or wired. Examples of input devices include keyboards, mice, and microphones. Examples of output devices include display devices, lighting devices, and speakers that output sound. Examples of input/output devices include touch panel displays. The input device, output device, and input/output device may be built into the computer 80 or be external.

The hardware configuration of computer 80 is an example. Computer 80 may have some of the components shown in Figure 17. Computer 80 may also have components other than those shown in Figure 17. For example, computer 80 may have a drive device. The processor 801 may read programs and data stored on a recording medium mounted on the drive device into the RAM 803. Examples of non-temporary tangible recording media include optical discs, flexible discs, magneto-optical discs, and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. Furthermore, as mentioned above, computer 80 may have input devices such as a keyboard and mouse. Computer 80 may also have output devices such as a display. Computer 80 may also have input devices, output devices, and input/output devices, respectively.

The computer 80 may have various sensors (not shown). The types of sensors are not particularly limited. Examples of sensors include accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetic sensors, GPS (Global Positioning System) sensors, and fingerprint sensors, LiDAR (Light, Detection and Ranging) sensors, proximity sensors, and ambient light sensors.

This concludes the description of the hardware configuration of each device. Furthermore, there are various variations in how each device can be implemented. For example, each device may be implemented using any combination of different computers and programs for each component. Alternatively, the multiple components of each device may be implemented using any combination of a single computer and program.

Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be implemented using application-specific circuits. Also, some or all of the improvement support device 20 may be implemented using general-purpose circuits, including a processor such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). Furthermore, some or all of each device may be implemented using a combination of application-specific circuits and general-purpose circuits. These circuits may also be a single integrated circuit, or they may be divided into multiple integrated circuits. These multiple integrated circuits may be connected via a bus or the like.

Furthermore, if some or all of the components of each device are implemented by multiple computers or circuits, these computers or circuits may be centrally located or distributed.

The improvement support methods described in each embodiment are implemented, for example, by the execution of the improvement support device 20. Alternatively, the improvement support methods are implemented by a computer, such as a terminal device 21 or the improvement support device 20 (server), executing a pre-prepared program. The programs described in each embodiment are recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as an HDD, SSD, flexible disk, optical disk, magnetic optical disk, or USB memory. The program is then executed by being read from the recording medium by a computer. Furthermore, the program may be distributed via a communication network NT.

Each component of the device in each embodiment described above may have its function implemented in hardware, such as a computer. Alternatively, each component may be implemented using a program-controlled computer or firmware.

The present disclosure has been described above with reference to the embodiments described herein, but this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. The structure and details of each disclosure may include embodiments that apply various modifications that can be grasped by those skilled in the art within the scope of this disclosure. This disclosure may include embodiments that combine or substitute the matters described herein as appropriate. For example, matters described using a particular embodiment may be applied to other embodiments to the extent that they do not create a contradiction. For example, although multiple operations are described sequentially in the form of a flowchart, the order of description does not limit the order in which the multiple operations are performed. Therefore, when implementing each embodiment, the order of the multiple operations can be changed to the extent that it does not impair the content.

Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows. However, some or all of the above embodiments are not limited to those described below.

(Note 1)
A means for receiving evaluation items that are subject to improvement at the target stores,
A means for identifying stores among multiple stores in which the evaluation values of the aforementioned evaluation items received at different evaluation periods have changed,
Output control means that outputs values of sales indicators at the identified store,
An improvement support device equipped with the following features.
(Note 2)
The store identification means identifies stores in which the evaluation values of the received evaluation items have improved.
The improvement support device described in Appendix 1.
(Note 3)
The store identification means identifies stores that are similar to the target store in at least one of the following: location, size, product range, customer base, and number of competing stores.
The improvement support device described in Appendix 1 or 2.
(Note 4)
The aforementioned indicators are at least one of the following: number of customers, sales, sales per square foot, labor productivity, budget progress rate, gross profit, and the respective target achievement rate.
An improvement support device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 3.
(Note 5)
The store identification means identifies stores in which the value of the indicator has improved by a predetermined value or more at the multiple evaluation periods.
An improvement support device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 4.
(Note 6)
The store identification means identifies stores in which the range of fluctuation of the index value at the multiple evaluation periods is less than or equal to a predetermined value.
An improvement support device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 4.
(Note 7)
The store identification means identifies stores in which the value of the indicator has fallen by a predetermined value or more at the multiple evaluation periods.
An improvement support device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 4.
(Note 8)
An evaluation item identification means for identifying evaluation items among multiple evaluation items other than the received evaluation items, in which the evaluation value has fluctuated for the identified store at the multiple evaluation periods,
Equipped with,
The output control means outputs the identified evaluation item.
An improvement support device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 7.
(Note 9)
The output control means outputs the value of the indicator at the specified store and the value of the indicator at the target store.
An improvement support device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 8.
(Note 10)
The output control means outputs the number of identified stores.
An improvement support device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 9.
(Note 11)
Computers
We accept evaluation items that need improvement at the target stores.
Identify stores among multiple stores where the evaluation values for the aforementioned evaluation items received at different evaluation periods have fluctuated.
Output the values of sales indicators for the identified store.
Improvement support methods.
(Note 12)
On the computer,
We accept evaluation items that need improvement at the target stores.
Identify stores among multiple stores where the evaluation values for the aforementioned evaluation items received at different evaluation periods have fluctuated.
Output the values of sales indicators for the identified store.
A program that executes a process.
(Note 13)
On the computer,
We accept evaluation items that need improvement at the target stores.
Identify stores among multiple stores where the evaluation values for the aforementioned evaluation items received at different evaluation periods have fluctuated.
Output the values of sales indicators for the identified store.
A non-temporary recording medium readable by the computer, which records a program that executes a process.

10, 20 Improvement support device 21 Terminal device 80 Computer 101, 201 Evaluation item receiving unit 102, 202 Store identification unit 103, 203 Output control unit 204 Evaluation value change receiving unit 205 Indicator receiving unit 206 Indicator change receiving unit 207 Evaluation item identification unit 211 Input receiving unit 212 Output unit 801 Processor 802 ROM
803 RAM
804 Storage device 805 Communication interface 806 Input/output interface 807 Bus 2001 Store DB
2002 Sales History 2003 Evaluation History d001 Screen d002 Screen d101 Screen d102 Screen d103 Screen d104 Screen d105 Screen d106 Screen NT Communication Network

Claims (8)

A means for receiving evaluation items that are subject to improvement at the target stores,
A store identification means identifies a store among multiple stores whose information is stored in the store database, based on an evaluation history unit that stores evaluation values assigned by evaluators to each store according to predetermined evaluation items, where the evaluation values for the evaluation items received at different evaluation times have changed.
Based on the evaluation history unit and the sales history unit which stores the values of sales-related indicators, an output control means outputs the evaluation values of the evaluation items and the values of sales-related indicators at the target store at at least one of a plurality of different evaluation periods, and the evaluation values of the evaluation items and the values of sales-related indicators at a specified store at at least one of a plurality of different evaluation periods.
An improvement support device equipped with the following features. The store identification means identifies stores in which the evaluation values of the received evaluation items have improved.
The improvement support device according to claim 1. The aforementioned store identification means identifies stores where the evaluation value of the received evaluation item has decreased.
The improvement support device according to claim 1. The aforementioned indicators are at least one of the following: number of customers, sales, sales per square foot, labor productivity, budget progress rate, gross profit, and the respective target achievement rate.
The improvement support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. An evaluation item identification means for identifying evaluation items among multiple evaluation items other than the received evaluation items, in which the evaluation value has fluctuated for the identified store at the multiple evaluation periods,
Equipped with,
The output control means outputs the identified evaluation item.
The improvement support device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 . The output control means outputs the number of identified stores.
The improvement support device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 . Computers
We accept evaluation items that need improvement at the target stores.
Based on the evaluation history unit, which stores evaluation values assigned by evaluators to each store according to predetermined evaluation items, the system identifies stores among multiple stores whose information is stored in the store database , where the evaluation values for the aforementioned evaluation items have changed over multiple different evaluation periods.
Based on the evaluation history unit and the sales history unit which stores the values of sales-related indicators, the system outputs the evaluation values of the evaluation items and the values of sales-related indicators for the target store at at least one of several different evaluation periods, and the evaluation values of the evaluation items and the values of sales-related indicators for the identified store at at least one of several different evaluation periods.
Improvement support methods. On the computer,
We accept evaluation items that need improvement at the target stores.
Based on the evaluation history unit, which stores evaluation values assigned by evaluators to each store according to predetermined evaluation items, the system identifies stores among multiple stores whose information is stored in the store database , where the evaluation values for the aforementioned evaluation items have changed over multiple different evaluation periods.
Based on the evaluation history unit and the sales history unit which stores the values of sales-related indicators, the system outputs the evaluation values of the evaluation items and the values of sales-related indicators for the target store at at least one of several different evaluation periods, and the evaluation values of the evaluation items and the values of sales-related indicators for the identified store at at least one of several different evaluation periods.
A program that executes a process.