Chatbots, Why??

What is a bot:A bot is any software that performs an automated task. Although for all intents and purposes a bot is any software that can have a conversation with a human. In this article, we specifically talk about "chatbots".

What is a chatbot:A chatbot is a software that can engage in a meaningful conversation with a user in a natural language via different messaging platforms.

Types of chatbots:-These bots are created to aid customers access desired products or services. This is generally done by 2 types of bots:-

1)AI-based bots
2)Fixed bots or multiple choice bots
Multiple choice bots are script-based, where one answer leads to another. On the other hand, AI-based bots have meaningful conversations with humans.

Popular chatbots platforms :
1) Amazon Alexa
2) IBM Watson
3) Microsoft Bot Framework

The following photograph sheds light on a few predicted uses of chatbots in the future

Then why would a business employ a chatbots service?Both business and consumers can benefit from the use of chatbots.

1)Improved customer service;can be beneficial for both businesses and consumers.

I) Extensive customer assistance: A boon for both consumers and producers. Customers require assistance to understand which products fit their needs/budgets and with the help of chatbots can get the required guidance. Moreover, these bots help increase customer satisfaction by replacing live chats and in other forms of communication. Since bots are quick and more efficient than their human counterparts they can help clear off more product/service related queries in a shorter time frame.

II)All day customer support:Chatbots can simultaneously carry out multiple conversations at the same time, moreover, they can do it without getting tired. Chatbots are therefore accessible 24x7, making the consumer's life easier and the producer's job simpler.

2)Monitor consumer data and gain insights:With the feedbacks bots collect via simple questions help companies update and improve their product/service, sales, marketing and even online advertisement.

3)Cost savings:Employing a chatbot is fa more efficient than creating a cross-platform application or hiring employees for specific tasks.

4)Keeping up with trends:Since its present on multiple messaging platforms, it immensely helps with sales, especially to millennial customers.

In conclusion, gone are the days when one had to wait for hours before being connected to a company representative. Fret not, chatbots are here and they are easy to use and many consumers prefer them over calling a representative on the phone, as it tends to be faster and a more convenient. Chatbots are the future of consumer experience and have the power to replace other applications in the not-so-distant future.