If you are unfamiliar with the world of Artificial Intelligent (AI) and Web Services (IaaS), I would recommend you start by reading this short introduction to Web Chat Bots. Once you are familiar with this basic information, you can begin to learn about how chat bots work and how they can be used for different business functions.
A messenger bot is a computer program that is capable of interacting with users on the Internet using a virtual channel of communication. There are two types of chatbots:
Back-end-based chatbots: These are the bots that communicate with users through their web servers. They may be based on a chat messaging platform or a specific user interface from a third party service provider.
Front-end-based chatbots: These are bots that deliver messages or conduct specific tasks as a result of being activated by the user. A user can activate these chatbots either through a graphical user interface or by a scripted language.
The functionality of each type of chatbot is discussed below. We will compare the two types, so you can decide which one best fits your needs.
Back-end-based chatbots: A back-end-based chatbot is programmed to interact with the users through the exchange of human-to-human conversation. It is not dependent on any external website. Back-end-based chatbots are helpful in that they are often used for managing and organizing tasks that are assigned to particular users.
These bots respond to a variety of commands. However, since they are not connected to the web, you cannot access them and perform complex tasks. You can also keep them inactive, and they will run quietly and in the background without interfering with your day-to-day operation.
Front-end-based chatbots: These are the bits that are not designed to have a direct interface with the user. They are designed to respond to commands from users through textual input or through a graphical user interface. However, when compared to back-end-based chatbots, this type of chatbot is more productive since it is able to integrate with existing internet technology.
Users can use this type of chatbot to perform an array of tasks. Some examples include scheduling meetings, scheduling events, organizing meeting logistics, or asking employees to fill out a form or respond to a survey. For example, when the owner of an accounting firm wants to schedule a meeting, she would write the meeting date and time using her web browser.
It is important to note that this type of chatbot is not designed to actively provide answers to questions. This is why many companies are turning to these types of chatbots to streamline some of their internal processes. As previously mentioned, these bots can be configured to have input fields that provide user responses, and they can also be configured to send responses to specific users.
Messenger bots can provide many business functions. They can be used to manage marketing campaigns, update website content, and provide customer support. These chatbots can even help businesses in other industries to improve communication with their customers and acquire new customers.
It is important to understand the different types of chatbots before deciding on the one that will best suit your business. If you are currently not using a chatbot, consider whether you might benefit from one. Most businesses can benefit from chatbots; there are just a few that are not yet ready for prime time.