Archived News Release: August 21, 2024 - The City of Ann Arbor is launching Ask Ann, a fully integrated and automated web chat assistant to help people find information available from the city's website, www.a2gov.org, 24/7.
Ask Ann is built into the city website, using the technology behind large language models, or conversational artificial intelligence (AI), which makes it easier for anyone to get quick answers to questions, find detailed information on city services and projects, submit service requests, and contact staff. Leveraging the latest technology and machine learning, Ask Ann understands and communicates proficiently in 71 different languages, showcasing the advancements in conversational AI for a more seamless and inclusive customer experience.
To chat with Ask Ann, people only have to visit the city website, www.a2gov.org, where both desktop and mobile users will notice the feature on the bottom right section of their browser window. Clicking on the Ask Ann icon launches the chat window, greeting visitors and prompting them to enter their question.
If at any time during the chat a person needs further assistance, they can send in a message with Ask Ann and a member of city staff will follow up during business hours.
To bring this new tool to life, the City of Ann Arbor partnered with Citibot, based in Charleston, South Carolina. The City of Ann Arbor is among the first municipalities in Michigan to implement the Citibot customer service solution.
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