Cognitive Communication

Smart bots can be accessed on many different interfaces, including both fixed and mobile phones, as well as PCs and tablets. They can also transmit information over a variety of media, including text, instant messaging, voice, and bot-to-bot communication. 

But what exactly are bots? Bots are software applications that run automated tasks over a network. The tasks are usually simple and structurally repetitive, so bots can perform them faster and more accurately than a human. 

Bots can provide information on virtually any topic by searching, finding and returning the information that the user has requested. They can also leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to learn from user behavior and preferences. Over time, they become better at using data to anticipate a users’ needs and expectations - for example, suggesting a sandwich bar near the location of your morning meetings as a notification on your smartphone, or suggesting phrases to auto-complete your email messages.

In the current enterprise landscape, most bots are designed for a single purpose (one action per bot). As users grow more accustomed to bots and have greater confidence in their ability, bots will likely become multifunctional, with more responsibilities. 

This partnership with IBM is just the beginning of bot and AI integration into ALE communication solutions and technology. Industries such as healthcare, education, hospitality and government clearly stand to benefit from the opportunities and efficiencies these technology advances have to offer. Other areas to be explored include new services for bots and AI in sensitive contexts such as citizen security in smart city solutions, and emergency response management in complex environments.