Open input 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.
This action is versatile and appears in multiple contexts across AI experiences. Some parameters and other selectors may not be appropriate in all contexts so ensure you design each case thoughtfully.
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, etc), it can lead them to feel crippled by the choices (the blank canvas effect).
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.
Help users get the most out of open inputs to the AI through wayfinders that get them started and tuners that help them easily build their prompt.