Language User Interface (LUI) Patterns in AI

The problem of language interfaces is similar to the problem of command-line interfaces: when the user is presented with a prompt, they don't necessarily know what commands they can give. This is why I am so happy to read Jackie's thoughts — and see the results of her work! — on how to guide users to the functionality they need.

If we get it right, though, we could see a real step change in user experience. Graphical user interfaces are limited to what can be displayed on screen, and the hierarchical structure can frustrate power users who know what they want do. A conversational interface holds out the promise of letting power users go straight to the functionality they need, while also guiding and prompting inexperienced users to discover the capabilities of the system.