The definition of what is a Virtual Assistant can be very complex. However, we have prepared a simpler capsule for you: It is an application with a set of skills to interact with other applications to make your life more productive and easy. The list of applications can be very extensive, and several may rely on artificial intelligence (AI). Among these applications are: to find a point of interest, interact with a calendar, send or read an email and many other. Skills are customizable and include verbal understanding of several languages.
At this point let’s introduce a definition of AI. According to Technopedia it is an area of computer science that emphasizes the creation of intelligent machines that work and react like humans. Some of the activities computers with artificial intelligence are designed for include: speech recognition, learning, planning, and problem solving.
In your business, an activity a Virtual Assistant may carry out for you through voice and text understanding is to enable employees to manage their calendars, find available meeting rooms, find people with specific skills or perform human resources operations.
In a hotel environment a Virtual Assistant through a voice enabled device provide a broad range of hospitality services like extending a guest stay, attend a late checkout, room service, concierge services, find local restaurants and attractions, wake up calls, provide weather information, and so on.
In general, Virtual Assistant capabilities depend on what your business requires and can afford. Some of the simpler capabilities that could be included are:
- Greet the user and collect initial information.
- Assist the user to identify him without entering his username and password through voice commands.
- Answer the phone and take required actions.
Be prepared for a very amazing near future with Virtual Assistants in your office!