A technology for promoting distribution of IPs which constitute part of an integrated circuit is provided. An LSI maker concludes a contract for business alliance with an IP provider, acquires data on IPs from the IP provider, conducts layout, wiring, and verification of the acquired IPs, registers verified IPs into a library, and presents the same to a set maker. When the set maker orders for manufacturing of an LSI to the LSI maker, the LSI maker designs the logic of the integrated circuit, conducts layout, wiring, and timing simulation, and have evaluations from the set maker. Then, the LSI maker manufactures LSIs, delivers the same to the set maker, and receives the payment. The LSI maker calculates license fees, and pays them to the IP provider.