Conceptualizing the Conversation

When I started out this project, I knew I want to create a chatbot which interact with people like a real friend. From the discoveries and articles we read in this class, I understand that people tend to project a personality to the bot s/he is chatting with. This sets the tone and "unspoken rules" on how to interact with the bot. It's is therefore very important. 

Here are the elements I took into consideration: 

- Tone of voice

- pacing

- interactions

- flexibility in words

...

I also want the human - bot interaction to be as natural as possible. The relationship should be developed organically, like real human interactions. Therefore, the conversation should evolve other time. I used the concept of "progressive disclosure" in design. Instead of dumping a bunch information upfront, the bot should disclose information gradually. Bot should give hints and guide where the conversation should go, but never force a conversation to happen. 

The main function of the bot is to provide book reviews, but this is kinda hidden. You will have to chat with Bear, get to know him more and then you will find out that he is such a well-read bear. This is exactly like how real life human interactions work - you find out a person's talents and personality the more you get to know him/her. 

This also created a sense of mystery - making it more interesting for users.