To reduce a user's print cost in a print system operated on a rate plan charging a flat rate until a fixed rate or fixed number of printouts is reached, by configuring a system in which printers below a flat print rate output level are notified to the user to facilitate a change of the destination of printing to any printer below the flat print rate output level, and increasing opportunity for effective use of printers below the flat print rate output level.

When printing is directed to a printer above a flat print rate output level, the user is notified accordingly and recommended alternative printers below the flat print rate output level, so that the user can select a printer.