Chatbot

A chatbot is a software application that simulates conversation with users through text or voice interfaces. Chatbots range from simple rule-based systems that follow scripts to sophisticated AI-powered agents that understand natural language and generate contextual responses.

Types of chatbots include: rule-based chatbots (follow pre-defined conversation trees — "if user says X, respond with Y"), retrieval-based chatbots (select responses from a library of pre-written answers), AI-powered chatbots (use language models to generate responses dynamically), and AI agents (advanced chatbots that can take actions, use tools, and pursue goals).

Modern chatbots powered by large language models can: understand natural language (no need for exact keyword matching), maintain conversation context (remember what was discussed earlier in the chat), handle ambiguity (ask clarifying questions when the intent is unclear), generate personalized responses (adapt to each user's needs), and integrate with business systems (access real data and take real actions).

Common use cases include: customer support (answering questions, resolving issues), lead generation (qualifying visitors and capturing contact info), e-commerce (product recommendations, order tracking), internal operations (HR FAQs, IT help desk), and education (tutoring, course guidance).

Platforms like Chipp have evolved the chatbot concept far beyond simple Q&A. Modern AI agents built on Chipp can use custom knowledge bases, call external APIs, handle voice conversations, and deploy across web, WhatsApp, Slack, phone, and more.