IF Computer Japan introduced the web based self service consulting system DialogEngines: online solution for automated individual consulting and recommendation dialogs on the internet.
Using product knowledge, a virtual agent with character animation and voice conducts a personal consulting dialog with the visitor of a corporate or government service web site.
Based on on product knowledge, user requirements, and dialog history the agent will make proposals, show alternatives, or even actively ask questions. Agent responses, questions, and the corresponding animation and voice differ for each individual dialog and are displayed in real time.
The agent tries to answer user requests, but can also take initiative and actively guide a user with questions and proposals. If configured with a recommendation engine module, DialogEngines can conduct a dialog, and also make recommendations based on the best possible product for user-specific needs.
Until now, it was difficult to build consulting sales web sites. DialogEngines is an enterprise solution to assist customers to purchase consulting intensive products or services.
The first system was delivered to Paris Miki, the worlds third largest spectacles retailer, and the biggest one in Japan.
Main market is financial, medical and government services, which provide complex services and products to individual customers. Oskar Bartenstein of IF Computer said "The animation and voice makes things more personal and more fun. But entertainment alone is not enough. Web users will very quickly get used to expect real advice once they learn that professional web sites can give it. We serve a big niche between call centers and static web sites."