Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the way we work and interact with technology. Its potential is vast, offering value across various sectors. However, to truly tap into AI’s potential, we need to shift our focus from pure technology to the user experience (UX). By designing how users interact with AI in specific contexts, AI can become a powerful tool that adds value and simplifies our lives.
Text-Based Prompts and Their Limitations
A text-based prompt, where users input questions or commands via a keyboard, is a common way to engage with AI systems today. It works well for certain applications, like search engines or databases where users can input a query and receive a swift response. However, there are areas where a text-based prompt doesn’t add sufficient value or ensure seamless interaction.
Consider the medical field. Imagine a doctor wanting to use an AI assistant for diagnosis or treatment suggestions. Crafting complex medical queries in text can be time-consuming and risky, especially when accuracy and speed are paramount. This is where UX comes into play.
Conversation as the Future Interaction Method
Human’s most natural form of communication is through conversation. We speak in auditory packets, known as sentences, then listen to the response and reply in real-time. This iterative process moves the discussion forward. Such communication is intuitive, efficient, and allows for immediate feedback and clarifications. So, why not apply the same principle to our interactions with data, software, and technology?
Conversing humanizes AI interaction, making it more accessible. By using spoken words instead of text prompts, we can craft a more natural and engaging experience. Imagine posing medical questions directly to an AI assistant and receiving immediate, accurate responses to aid swift decision-making. More importantly, you can challenge the AI’s response, seeking clarifications or even changing its opinion. Engaging in complex topics with AI as a colleague, where the AI understands context, can foster meaningful dialogues leading to new insights. In finance and analytics, imagine conversing with charts to gain accurate insights, rather than merely inputting numbers in tables.
This approach could also democratize AI accessibility. Not everyone is comfortable communicating in writing. By employing voice-based interactions, we can bridge language and technical barriers. However, other accessibility perspectives need attention. Some users might need voice-based services to be accessible via text or other adaptive user solutions.
HCI and UX
When discussing the optimal and simplest ways for humans to use technology, the topic of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) soon arises. It’s the study of interactions between humans and computers, focusing on understanding and optimizing the user experience to create meaningful and positive tech interactions. In the realm of AI, UX is crucial for AI to be a valuable tool across sectors. By integrating voice-based conversation as an interaction method, we can foster a more natural and user-friendly experience in medicine and beyond. By considering user feedback and understanding, we can design AI systems that genuinely add value. HCI and UX are pivotal in realizing AI’s full potential.
So my point is…
To harness AI’s potential, we must prioritize the user experience. While it’s tempting to continue in the footsteps of platforms like ChatGPT, a text-based prompt isn’t always the best solution, especially in areas where speed and accuracy are crucial. By centering the user and crafting an engaging conversational environment tailored to the context, we can transform AI into a potent tool that genuinely adds value across sectors, promoting inclusive and democratic AI development.
