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Context-aware chatbot

As explained in Effective Conversational AI

A context-aware chatbot is a chatbot that retains and applies relevant information about the user and interaction to interpret requests and tailor assistance.

A generic chatbot repeats the same options, forcing users to restate details. A context-aware chatbot remembers relevant preferences and past interactions, then applies the user’s current situation to provide more precise, timely assistance. section 9.1.1

From a vague balance request to useful assistance

When Emma asks about her account balance, the chatbot first lists her accounts so she can disambiguate. It then returns an up-to-date balance that reflects recent deposits, withdrawals, pending transactions, and scheduled payments. The same principle supports personalized recommendations, such as suggesting travel rewards to a frequent traveler. section 9.1.1

Table 9.2 Example interactions with non-contextual, contextual, and personalized responses
User query: How should I manage my expenses this month?
Non-contextualized response
Ensure you track your expenses and stay within a budget. Consider using financial tracking tools to help manage your spending.
Contextualized response for a frequent traveler
Since you travel frequently, consider investing in a credit card that offers travel rewards. You should also look into travel budgets for each trip and explore saving options on frequent flyer programs to optimize your travel-related expenses this month.
Contextualized response for a recent graduate starting a new job
Congratulations on your new job! As you transition into financial independence, it’s important to set up a budget, considering your new income. You might want to allocate funds for upcoming one-time expenses, such as professional attire or a commuting pass, while also starting an emergency fund.

Compare generic advice with responses adapted to a frequent traveler or a recent graduate starting a new job. section 9.1.1

How Effective Conversational AI covers it

How deep it goes
Explains personalization and financial disambiguation through examples, while noting that context-awareness requires additional development.
Examples
Uses account-balance clarification, pending transactions, travel rewards, and advice for a recent graduate.
What you can do after
Evaluate chatbot responses by their relevance, timeliness, accuracy, personalization, and ability to avoid unnecessary repetition.
How it connects
Ties context awareness to personalization, historical interactions, current status, and accurate account balances.

Related concepts

This explainer was generated by Manning's knowledge graph from the text of Effective Conversational AI. The section links point to the parts of the book it draws on.