Open chat
Open ended prompt inputs that can be used in conversations or to tune results
Overview:
The "Open Text" pattern has become the cornerstone of interactive AI design, fostering a dialogue between users and AI systems. This pattern is characterized by its simple interface that feels familiar, inviting the user to converse with the model underneath.
By using natural language, it doesn't take long for someone to get comfortable with the general interactivity. Where the pattern's limitations show is after the first few interactions, when someone doesn't know what to say next.
There's a false perception that simple means easy. When someone knows what they are looking for then this way of interacting with the model makes sense. This could apply to use cases like a search portal, or customer support.
However, when someone reaches an open chat bar and doesn't know what they are looking for (content generation sites, ChatGPT), it can lead them to feel crippled by the choices - the blank canvas.
On top of that, prompting skills are not widespread. Most users will not understand how to craft a prompt to get the result they have in their head.
Wayfinding patterns like ice breakers can help users get the conversation started. However, this pattern so far lacks affordances to help people construct better prompts that get them the outcomes they are looking for. As result, users report feeling frustrated by the lack of consistency, predictability, or perceived quality in what is returned.
This pattern allows users to fully express themselves. They can use the words and framing that is more natural to them to construct a query. Open chat won't be going away, but we will likely see it evolve.
- Templates can help users craft better prompts without having the full skillset
- Nudges to improve your prompt can show users what "better" looks like
- Putting filters and parameters at the users' fingertips can make this more complicate feature accessible
Think past the initial interaction. What's step two?
Benefits:
Anti-patterns:
Overload and Paralysis
The sheer openness of the interface can sometimes overwhelm users, especially those unfamiliar with the AI's capabilities or those who prefer more guidance. Without clear prompts or examples, users may struggle to initiate the conversation or articulate their needs effectively.
Misinterpretation and Ambiguity
Natural language is inherently ambiguous. Without the constraints of structured input, users might phrase queries in ways that the AI misinterprets, leading to unsatisfactory or irrelevant responses. This can frustrate users and erode trust in the system.
Privacy and Ethical Considerations
Given the open-ended nature of the interaction, users might share sensitive or personal information. This raises significant privacy and ethical concerns, necessitating robust data handling and privacy policies to protect user information.
Dependency on Natural Language Processing Accuracy
The effectiveness of the Open Text pattern heavily relies on the underlying NLP technology. Inaccuracies in understanding or generating responses can lead to user frustration, highlighting the importance of continuous improvement and refinement of the AI models.
