The invention provides an information processing apparatus connected via a network to a plurality of user terminals on the side of users creating common materials. The apparatus comprises a control unit for approving connection to the apparatus from at least two of the plurality of user terminals, and another control unit for making control to display a second entry area, in which data from the plurality of user terminals having been approved for the connection is to be input, while displaying an image of the common materials shared by the plurality of user terminals.