Natural language interfaces
Communicating with a computer using natural language is an appealing idea.
Although it is technically difficult to program a computer to communicate intelligently, it is much easier to program one to understand commands in a set environment. For example, communicating with a word processing package to open, print or close a file.
At a glance
Natural language interfaces allow the user to interact using written or spoken 'human' commands instead of computer language. Words are used to instigate functionality such as creating, selecting and modifying data.
For example, Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant or Cortana are natural language interfaceThe part of a computer program with which the user can interact. that allows you to interact with your device's operating system using your own spoken language.
Natural language interfaces can, however, be difficult to use effectively due to the unpredictable and ambiguous nature of human speech. Variation in tone and accent can lead to misinterpretation.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Users do not have to learn the syntax or principles of a particular language. | A voice interface might need training to get the software to recognise what the user is saying. |
| Suitable for users with physical disabilities/mobility issues. | Misinterpretation due to ambiguous or unclear input. |
| Can provide a safer interface in certain environments - Example: Driving a car. |
| Advantages | Users do not have to learn the syntax or principles of a particular language. |
|---|---|
| Disadvantages | A voice interface might need training to get the software to recognise what the user is saying. |
| Advantages | Suitable for users with physical disabilities/mobility issues. |
|---|---|
| Disadvantages | Misinterpretation due to ambiguous or unclear input. |
| Advantages | Can provide a safer interface in certain environments - Example: Driving a car. |
|---|---|
| Disadvantages |