Microsoft tools for getting started with Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence has become a pivotal topic in any discussion about emerging technologies, and rightly so. It offers so much, from chatbots to cognitive services. Companies are battling to adapt AI and leverage it to create an efficient business process and improve customer experiences.

AI capabilities that were once considered science fiction only five years ago have now become a reality through the efforts of tech titans like Microsoft. This company’s AI mission states they are “democratizing AI for every person and every organization.” Through numerous Microsoft tools, developers are bringing AI to the masses.

Technologies that were considered science fiction as early as five years ago are now real, thanks to tech titans like Microsoft. The dedicated AI mission for Microsoft states that they are “democratizing AI for every person and every organization.” Microsoft achieves this through numerous tools and platforms, helping bring AI to the masses. ”

Microsoft is making AI ‘user-friendly’ by introducing SDKs and tools that make what would otherwise be a very complex and complicated process streamlined and simple.

So, with all the buzz surrounding the growing abilities of AI, what’s shaping up to be a sure bet? We pooled the knowledge of Pegasus One subject-matter experts to list the top Microsoft tools that we believe will be most impactful in the coming times.

1. Video chatbots: In an example of a true “next generation” technology showcase, the Skype platform has been updated to host video chatbots. Instead of typing back and forth with bots, users can now have a visual and auditory conversation with them. While not that useful for everyone today, the technology can have a significant impact on how we perceive and use customer service.

 

2. Bing Customized Search: Developers can leverage the power of Bing to create a tailored search with this new service. Companies can embed search functionality on their sites that return relevant information for their target audiences.

 

3. Cortana apps: Microsoft has continued to extend its influence in the field of chatbots by allowing developers to create bots on its flagship AI assistant platform Cortana. Using the Microsoft Bot Framework and the new Cortana Skills Kit, developers can now publish bots that can be accessed through the Cortana interface.

 

4. Custom Decision Service: Implementing an effective machine learning algorithm can be a difficult task. With the new Custom Decision Service, developers can create and implement intelligent systems that will adapt to user interactions and feedback to maximize engagement.

 

5. Custom Vision Service: Microsoft was among the first in the game when it debuted its image recognition service at Build 2016. It was a tool that allowed developers to program facial and item recognition, unheard of for small developers at that time. The service has now been updated to allow for custom rules around object recognition. Microsoft photos allows simple toggle switches to enable an AI image search.

 

6. Video Indexer: Microsoft has created a service called Video Indexer that will seamlessly analyze and categorize multiple aspects of the uploaded video. Using this service, businesses are able to utilize facial searching and recognition, audio translation and transcription, and emotion and sentiment analysis.

 

7. Azure Bot Service: The newest iteration of the Azure Bot Service brings together the Microsoft Bot Framework and Azure services into one UI experience. Now developers can create and edit their bots through an Azure service without uploading a single line of code.

 

8. Adaptive Cards: Today’s chatbots can display text-based information in a rich and interactive way through plush UIs embedded within various channels. Developers face challenges as they program the iterations necessary to adhere to different UI standards. To combat this, Microsoft has created “Adaptive Cards.” This allows developers to describe their information in one universal format, which is then translated automatically into whichever rich channel UI is being utilized.

 

9. Bot payments: One thing lacking in the realm of chatbots is the ability to execute payment transactions through a chatbot interface. Microsoft has augmented its Bot Framework SDK to interact with the W3 standardized Payment Request API—allowing developers to create a seamless checkout experience.

 

10. Bot analytics: One of the most alluring aspects of chatbots is their ability to collect a myriad of analytical information. Microsoft has taken it one step further and built informational dashboards that showcase key pieces of information in an easy to read interface.

 

These tools are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things we do or can do using AI. But that’s not the point of this blog. What we really wanted to convey to you, the reader, is the fact that tools exist today that can simplify and uncomplicate the process of implementing, using and maintaining an AI strategy in your organization without the need for AI experts. It’s an exciting space—one the whole world will be watching as technology advancements impact individuals, businesses and the entire global economy. Are you ready to take advantage of AI?