July 2023 Summaries

Ephemeral AI-powered micro apps have emerged as a vision for hyper-personalized future interactions, where bespoke tools are generated by AI in response to user needs, vanishing once tasks are completed. Rapid progress in large language models has made this technology possible, with the rise of ChatGPT and Claude, enabling personalized assistants that can manage various tasks, potentially replacing traditional apps.

Automate lead generation with Zapier and Voiceflow to maximize efficiency through AI-powered tools. Create a chatbot that sends lead information into a Google spreadsheet or automates Zendesk ticket creation. Build an AI feature recommender powered by your own sources, or create an AI FAQ that recommends sources. Use the knowledge base API to unlock advanced functionalities, such as including the source of a response in an AI analytics summary bot. Browse from various community templates built by AI automation agencies for use cases like building a lead generation bot or creating a WhatsApp AI assistant for a local business.

Conventional website design and information architecture are linear, emphasizing headlines and hierarchy. However, computers no longer require a linear approach, and UX designers can help create dynamic user interactions with websites and dashboards. By joining forces with UX designers, developers can revolutionize the AI landscape by introducing novel interaction patterns that transcend traditional chatbot constraints. This collaboration could lead to more fluid and human-like experiences for users. Additionally, generative AI can code, making many apps free or low-cost, potentially giving rise to "ephemeral apps" and micro user interfaces. These ephemeral apps will need clear conventions and intuitive interactions, while micro interfaces will require a deep understanding of how people think. Integrating UX research into the CAI process is crucial for creating successful AI-powered products. By shifting the workflow to accommodate UX designers, developers can address performance challenges and improve user experiences. The collaboration between developers and UX designers can lead to a more fluid and human-like approach to AI, much like the revolutionary impact of TiVo's user interface in 1999.

Simon's journey from discovering his passion for linguistics in fantasy novels to becoming a conversation designer at Google and PayPal, highlights the importance of staying true to one's interests and passions, even when they may not be the most obvious career path. He initially struggled with traditional career strategies, but instead found success by building a bot, freelancing in conversation design-related projects, and pushing past his fears to find opportunities that aligned with his skills and interests. Simon emphasizes the value of staying open to new experiences, having faith in oneself, bringing a unique perspective to the industry, being part of a community, and stepping outside one's comfort zone to connect with like-minded individuals. His story serves as an inspiration for those interested in pursuing a career in conversation design, encouraging them to be bold, stay curious, and find their own path.