velocityascent

Enhancing User Experiences with Digital Humans: When, how, and if you should deploy

velocityascent · January 12, 2024 ·

Digital humans are AI-powered beings that simulate human interactions, often with a human-like appearance and conversational abilities. Some are incredibly life-like, others downright creepy.

In the current digital landscape, businesses and organizations are seeking innovative ways to connect with their users while providing exceptional online experiences. One exciting development in this regard is the emergence of digital humans – AI-driven entities that mimic human interaction. While digital humans offer a wide range of benefits, it’s essential to understand when and how to deploy them effectively.

Excel at Complex & Repetitive Interactions

Digital humans truly shine when it comes to conveying complex instructions or explaining intricate product features. Think of the success of YouTube instruction videos featuring real people demonstrating how things work. The visual and interactive nature of digital humans makes them ideal for scenarios where customers need a deeper understanding of a product or service.

They also excel at performing repetitive tasks, especially in a support role where repetition fatigue of Human support can negatively impact visitor experience. Having the Digital Human in the entry-point acts as a filter assigning visitors to correct Human support.

Not Suitable for Every Application

Digital humans are not a one-size-fits-all solution. In situations where customers seek quick and straightforward transactions, traditional user interfaces, chatbots, or voice assistants like Siri or Alexa may be more suitable. These automated systems can efficiently handle routine tasks and provide swift responses.

Harnessing the Power of Digital Humans

Deploying digital humans strategically can have a profound impact on customer satisfaction and engagement. These AI-driven entities bridge the gap between automation and human interaction, offering a unique blend of efficiency and personalization. Whether it’s guiding customers through complex product configurations, providing emotional support, or assisting with decision-making, digital humans have the potential to transform customer experiences.

Consider These Key Questions

To determine whether deploying a digital human is the right choice, consider the following questions:

1. Does the interaction involve emotional engagement?

Digital humans can convey empathy and reassurance through their human-like appearance, making them suitable for emotionally charged interactions.

2. Are users unsure of what they want from the interaction?

When customers are uncertain about their needs, digital humans can guide them through the decision-making process, offering personalized recommendations.

3. Is there room for exploration and consideration of different approaches or outcomes?

In scenarios where customers want to explore various options or consider different outcomes, digital humans can provide valuable insights and assist in decision-making.

4. Could the user benefit from a personalized explanation?

If the interaction requires a tailored explanation or a detailed walkthrough, digital humans can offer personalized guidance, ensuring customers fully comprehend the information.

The Role of Digital Humans

Digital humans are not here to take our jobs or replace human interaction entirely. Instead, they excel in specific areas, such as providing information, assistance, and emotional support in situations where human availability might be limited. They are valuable additions to customer service, education, and various other industries.

Dispelling Misconceptions

To address concerns effectively, let’s debunk some common misconceptions:

1. Loss of Human Touch: Digital humans are not a threat to the human touch in interactions. They are programmed to provide empathy and support, complementing human interaction rather than replacing it.

2. Job Displacement: Digital humans are tools that can handle routine tasks, freeing up human employees to focus on more complex and value-added activities. They can enhance efficiency rather than replace jobs.

3. Security and Privacy: Concerns about data security and privacy are valid. However, just like any other technology, digital humans can be designed with robust security measures to protect sensitive information.

4. Ethical Considerations: Ethical concerns about AI and digital humans are important. It’s crucial for organizations to use these technologies responsibly and transparently, addressing ethical issues head-on.

Example of Digital Human

The Advantages of Digital Humans

Now, let’s shift the focus to the advantages of embracing digital humans:

1. Efficiency: Digital humans can provide instant assistance and support, improving response times and overall efficiency.

2. Availability: They are available 24/7, ensuring that customers can get help whenever they need it.

3. Personalization: Digital humans can offer personalized recommendations and guidance, enhancing the user experience.

4. Scalability: They can be deployed at scale, making them cost-effective for businesses.

Digital humans are, at the core, tools that can enhance customer experiences, improve efficiency, and complement human interactions. As technology continues to evolve, embracing these innovations is one path forward to a more efficient and personalized future.

Conclusion

While digital humans may not be suitable for every application, their ability to excel in conveying complex information and engaging customers emotionally makes them a valuable addition to the customer service toolkit. By asking the right questions and considering the nature of the interaction, businesses can harness the power of digital humans to enhance customer experiences and stay ahead in today’s competitive digital landscape.

Shameless Plug:

At Velocity Ascent we believe that as we begin to harness the power of AI to streamline processes and push creative boundaries, we hope to demonstrate that the future belongs to those who can navigate the delicate interplay between technology and human skill. The positive results achieved stand as a testament to the limitless possibilities that arise when human expertise and AI tools converge to craft experiences that delight and inspire.

Want to learn more – get in touch!

The Slide Deck is dead – long live the Slide Deck!

velocityascent · January 7, 2024 ·

Bid farewell to outdated conventions and embrace the era of dynamic, engaging and impactful slide deck production.

Out with the old, in with the new: the traditional approach to slide deck creation is undergoing a profound transformation. As the demands of modern business evolve, so too must our methods of communication and presentation. Gone are the days of static, uninspiring slides littered with bullet points and blocks of twelve point text. Todays innovative tools and techniques empower us to captivate audiences like never before.

This Look Book video presents a variety of contemporary layouts for a slide.

As professionals, we are constantly challenged to elevate our content, captivate our audience, and deliver impactful messages. Amidst this evolution, understanding the nuances of slide deck production becomes crucial. Let’s delve into the realm of modern slide deck creation, exploring the diverse tools, debunking clichés, and uncovering industry best practices.

Debunking Clichés: Beyond Bullet Points and Clip Art

Gone are the days of monotonous slide decks inundated with bullet points and clichéd clip art. Today, effective communication demands creativity and authenticity. Engage your audience by incorporating visually striking graphics, compelling imagery, and concise text. Embrace storytelling techniques to craft narratives that resonate with your viewers. Break free from the shackles of tradition, and dare to experiment with unconventional layouts and multimedia elements. Remember, the goal is not merely to convey information but to leave a lasting impression that sparks dialogue and action.

Industry Best Practices: Crafting Compelling Narratives

In the realm of slide deck production, adhering to industry best practices can elevate your presentations from mundane to memorable. Begin with a clear outline, ensuring a logical flow of ideas throughout your slides. Maintain consistency in design elements such as color schemes, fonts, and imagery to enhance visual coherence. Prioritize brevity and clarity, avoiding information overload that can overwhelm your audience. Leverage the power of visuals to reinforce key points and evoke emotive responses. Lastly, rehearse your delivery to cultivate confidence and ensure seamless execution on the day of the presentation.

Leading Platforms: Navigating the Landscape

Among the leading platforms, Google Slides, PowerPoint, and Keynote stand out as stalwarts in the realm of slide deck production. Google Slides, with its collaborative prowess and cloud-based functionality, facilitates real-time collaboration and seamless sharing. PowerPoint, a longstanding favorite, offers unparalleled customization options and integrations with other Microsoft Office applications.

User comparison; Keynote, Powerpoint, Google slides and Libre Office – 2019-2024

Keynote, tailored for the Mac ecosystem, impresses with its intuitive interface and stunning templates. For those embracing open-source solutions, platforms like LibreOffice Impress offer robust functionalities without the constraints of proprietary software. Choosing the right tool aligns with your objectives and enhances the efficiency of your presentation endeavors.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the slide deck may have evolved, but its relevance remains steadfast in the realm of professional communication. By harnessing the array of tools available, debunking clichés, embracing industry best practices, and leveraging leading platforms, savvy business professionals can elevate their presentations to new heights. Let us bid farewell to outdated conventions and embrace the era of dynamic and impactful slide deck production. Long live the slide deck!

Shameless Plug:

We believe that the small, robust, and nimble team at Velocity Ascent exemplifies the synergy of the new era. Guided by an unwavering commitment to best practices, combined with a deep understanding of user needs and preferences, forms our bedrock of exceptional design and production outcomes. As we begin to harness the power of AI to streamline processes and push creative boundaries, we hope to demonstrate that the future belongs to those who can navigate the delicate interplay between technology and human skill. The positive results achieved stand as a testament to the limitless possibilities that arise when human expertise and AI tools converge to craft experiences that delight and inspire.

Want to learn more – get in touch!

Everything you ever wanted to know about Start-Ups*

velocityascent · January 5, 2024 ·

*But Were Afraid To Ask.

On the one hand…

Working at a successful startup can be a dynamic and exhilarating journey, a thrilling blend of innovation, collaboration, and agility, where every day brings new challenges and opportunities. The pace is fast, and the stakes are high, but the potential for growth, impact, and development is unparalleled. In this environment, new ideas matter, a place where creativity thrives, and where the excitement of building something extraordinary permeates every aspect of the work.

This is true in the controlled environment of a laboratory – not very close to describing the typical start up environment. The real world version may, and will, be much more complex, stressful and challenging.

On the one other hand…

Taking a different approach, working at a successful startup can often feel like an unrelenting and exhausting ordeal. A grueling mix of perpetual innovation, never-ending collaboration, and the relentless need for quick thinking in a constant whirlwind of new problems. Every day brings a torrent of fresh challenges, a pace with stakes that leave slim margin for error. The potential for burnout, stress-induced breakdowns, and personal sacrifices knows no bounds and can take an immeasurable toll on well-being.

One way to avoid this is to review the success and failiure patterns of other companies, services and products.

How not to do it.

Top ten mistakes every startup makes

Here’s a list of the top ten mistakes that many startups commonly make:

Lack of Market Research: Failing to thoroughly research and understand the target market can lead to launching a product or service that doesn’t meet customer needs.
Overlooking a Solid Business Plan: Skipping the creation of a detailed business plan can make it challenging to secure funding and guide your startup’s growth.
Hiring Ineffectively: Making hasty hiring decisions or not building the right team can hinder your startup’s success.
Underestimating Costs: Failing to accurately forecast expenses can lead to financial challenges and potential cash flow problems.
Scaling Too Quickly: Expanding too rapidly without a solid foundation can strain resources and lead to burnout or instability.
Ignoring Customer Feedback: Not actively seeking and incorporating customer feedback can result in missed opportunities for improvement and growth.
Ignoring Competition: Neglecting to analyze and keep an eye on competitors can result in missed opportunities or market threats.
Not Adapting to Change: Refusing to pivot or adapt to changing market conditions can lead to obsolescence.
Poor Marketing Strategy: Ineffective marketing or branding efforts can limit your startup’s visibility and growth potential.
Neglecting Legal and Compliance Issues: Not addressing legal and regulatory requirements can lead to costly lawsuits or business disruptions.

Remember that these mistakes are common but can be avoided with careful planning, ongoing learning, and a willingness to adapt and improve!

There has got to be a better way!

In the world of startups, it’s a phrase we hear often: “There has got to be a better way!” And that’s exactly where the Velocity Ascent journey began. Fueled by the belief that efficiency should drive progress, we set out to challenge the status quo in start ups. We saw problems begging for solutions and industries ripe for disruption. With relentless curiosity and a passion for change, the team embarked on a mission to redefine and simplify the way things are done. Velocity Ascent is not just about providing products or services; it’s about pioneering a transformation, creating a brighter future, and answering the call for a better way.

We’re here to challenge conventions, reimagine possibilities, and make the world a slightly better place, one innovative solution at a time.

Best Practices = Best Path

“Best Practices” refer to proven and established methods, techniques, or processes that are widely recognized as effective and efficient in a particular industry or field. These practices are considered the most reliable and successful ways of achieving desired outcomes or standards. Here’s a list of the top ten best practices that are often observed in successful startups:

Clear Value Proposition: Successful startups have a clear and compelling value proposition that addresses a specific problem or need in the market.
Market Research: Thoroughly research and understand your target market, including customer preferences, pain points, and competition.
Solid Business Plan: Create a well-defined business plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and financial projections, providing a roadmap for growth.
Customer-Centric Approach: Prioritize customer feedback and continuously adapt your products or services to meet their evolving needs.
Effective Team Building: Assemble a talented and diverse team with complementary skills and a shared vision for the company’s success.
Agile Execution: Be agile and adaptable, willing to pivot or adjust strategies based on market feedback and changing circumstances.
Financial Management: Maintain a strong focus on financial discipline, budgeting, and cash flow management to ensure sustainability.
Investor Relations: Build strong relationships with investors by maintaining transparency and delivering on promises.
Marketing and Branding: Develop a cohesive marketing strategy and brand identity to effectively reach and engage with your target audience.
Legal and Compliance: Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and protect your intellectual property to mitigate legal risks.

These best practices serve as foundational principles for startups aiming for success. However, it’s important to note that while these practices provide a strong framework, each startup’s journey is unique, and adaptability and innovation remain essential as you navigate the challenges and opportunities that come your way.

Mastering Micro-Moments: Connecting with your target audience in an instant

velocityascent · January 2, 2024 ·

Micro-moments are tiny windows of time when people reflexively turn to their smartphones or device and want to know something, do something, buy something or go somewhere.

For businesses and organizations, Micro Moments represent golden opportunities to engage users with instant, relevant, and concise content that caters to their specific queries or requirements. In this blog post, we’ll investigate the concpet and application of Micro Moments and how to leverage them effectively to connect with your audience in real-time.

What Are Micro-Moments?
Micro-moments are those tiny windows of time when people reflexively turn to their smartphones or other mobile devices. It could be when they want to know something, go somewhere, do something, or buy something. These moments are often characterized by a sense of urgency and a desire for quick, easily digestible information.

The Power of Micro-Moments for Businesses
For businesses, micro-moments represent a unique chance to establish a direct connection with their audience. These moments are valuable because they usually signal high intent. When someone searches for a product or service on their phone, they are often ready to take immediate action, such as making a purchase or visiting a physical store.

Crafting Effective Micro-Moments Strategies

To make the most of micro-moments, businesses need to craft effective strategies. Here are some key steps:

Optimize for Mobile: Ensure that your website and content are mobile-friendly. A responsive design and fast loading times are essential for capturing users’ attention during micro-moments.
Voice Search Optimization: With the rise of voice-activated devices like smart speakers and virtual assistants, optimizing for voice search is crucial. People often use voice search for quick answers during micro-moments.
Understand User Intent: Analyze the types of questions or queries users make during micro-moments. Understanding their intent allows you to provide the most relevant information.
Create Snackable Content: Keep your content concise and to the point. Users in micro-moments want information quickly, so avoid lengthy articles and focus on delivering value in a few sentences or bullet points.
Be Available 24/7: Micro-moments can happen at any time, so ensure that your customer support or chat services are available round the clock to assist users.

Conclusion

Micro-moments are a vital aspect of modern consumer behavior. Businesses that recognize the power of these moments and tailor their strategies to address users’ immediate needs can gain a competitive edge. By optimizing for mobile, voice search, and understanding user intent, you can connect with your audience in real-time and provide the instant, relevant information they seek. Don’t miss out on the opportunities that micro-moments offer – embrace them and watch your brand thrive!

Shameless Plug:

We believe that the small, robust, and nimble team at Velocity Ascent exemplifies the synergy of the new era. Guided by an unwavering commitment to best practices, combined with a deep understanding of user needs and preferences, forms the bedrock of exceptional design and production outcomes. As we begin to harness the power of AI to streamline processes and push creative boundaries, we hope to demonstrate that the future belongs to those who can navigate the delicate interplay between technology and human skill. The positive results achieved stand as a testament to the limitless possibilities that arise when human expertise and AI tools converge to craft experiences that delight and inspire.

Want to learn more – get in touch!