It’s all about the interface: How Natural Language Interfaces are Redefining the Way We Work

A New Era in Interaction

Mulling over why systems like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gamma, Gemini, Claude etc. are so successful – it’s all about the interface. It isn’t just about their perceived intelligence – it’s about how they interact with us – it’s about the interface; the natural language interface . It’s a shift in how humans and machines collaborate. What does this mean as an approach to business.

What is it?

A natural language interface (NLI) is exactly what it sounds like: a way to interact with systems using plain, everyday language. Instead of clicking through menus, memorising commands, understanding arcane software, or learning code, you simply ask.

Large Language Models (LLM’s) like ChatGPT have unlocked the full potential of NLIs by making them much more intuitive. They understand context, nuance, and even intent. This simplicity is why millions of people and businesses are now turning to tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and others. It’s not just about efficiency – it’s about accessibility.

For the first time, technology speaks our language, not the other way around.

What does it mean from a business perspective?

For businesses, this is as transformative as the advent of the Internet or mobile computing. Why? Because a natural language interface isn’t just a convenience – it’s a gateway to broader adoption and deeper integration of technology across all levels of your organisation.

Here’s what businesses should do:

  1. Rethink accessibility: Think beyond your IT team. NLIs empower employees, regardless of technical skill, to tap into complex systems using simple prompts. (But also be aware of the risks that this brings.)
  2. Streamline workflows: Use NLIs to automate repetitive tasks, enhance decision-making, and improve collaboration across departments.
  3. Prioritise integration: The real power of NLIs lies in connecting them to your existing systems – CRM, ERP, analytics platforms – to unlock new efficiencies. (Do your software vendors have GenAI built in – think Einstein in Salesforce, Rovo in Atlassian, Bits in Datadog – if not, is it on their road map?)

Businesses that embrace NLIs now will gain a competitive edge by reducing barriers to technology adoption and improving productivity across the board.

What do I do with it?

So, how can you get started? Here are three practical steps:

  1. Experiment: Get hands-on. Tools like ChatGPT are accessible and easy to use – start by experimenting with simple tasks like drafting emails, analysing data, or brainstorming ideas.
  2. Identify opportunities: Look at your workflows. Where do people struggle with manual tasks or need better access to information? These are prime areas to introduce NLIs.
  3. Invest strategically: Train your team and integrate NLIs into your core systems (ask your vendors what thie GenAI plans are). This isn’t just about using the latest trend; it’s about building a foundation for long-term efficiency and innovation.

Natural language interfaces have opened the door to a new way of working, where technology adapts to us, not the other way around. It’s groundbreaking, but also incredibly practical – and it’s here to stay.


Further Reading

Natural Language: The Game-Changing Interface Between People and Technology


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