Relevant to: students, faculty, staff
Introduction
Blue, our AI Virtual Assistant, is powered by Natural Language Processing using IBM’s Watson. The Virtual Assistant is able to converse with users in English, Spanish, and simplified Chinese. When asking her a question, use the following conversation tips. In doing so, you will help Blue learn more effectively to provide accurate answers to what it is you and other users are looking for.
If you have any trouble using Blue, just email 1Stop Student Services at 1stop@sunyempire.edu.
Tips on Asking Blue Questions:
Use the question format.
When you phrase your inquiry as a question, she's more likely to identify what you need.
Example:
Instead of typing “I can’t find quantitative physics or environmental science classes,”
ASK BLUE: “Where can I locate the term guide?”
Be simple & specific
- Ask one question at a time
- Keep it short
- Use key words so she can provide relevant responses.
Example:
Instead of typing “Hi Blue, I am a new student at the university and can’t figure out how to pay my bill,”
ASK BLUE: “How do I pay my bill?”
Avoid using acronyms
Blue works best when provided full complete words in simple questions.
Example:
Instead of typing, "How do I submit a PLA?"
ASK BLUE: "How do I submit a Prior Learning Assessment?"
Take advantage of links and suggestions
Many questions can be answered using the links she provides. Be sure to:
- Take the time to review the web pages
- watch videos, and
- access the links she provides you
Blue is providing options to help answer your question. Using those links help her learn how to better address the question you asked by someone else in the future, and often the suggestions she provides can answer your question. In the long run, this will save you time!
Contacting the Office
If needed, she will present a form to collect information to provide to our 1Stop Student Services team, who will return your inquiry by email. Be sure you type your email address accurately.