Things to focus on when choosing chatbot software
Choosing the right chatbot software for a business is a difficult process. This section will walk you through the things that you should consider before you make the final call.
Your business needs
It’s crucial to first define what you want your chatbot to help you achieve. If your goal is to provide consistent customer support, look for a chatbot that excels in handling customer queries. If your focus is on sales, a chatbot with product recommendations would be ideal. In other words, choose a chatbot builder that’s going to align with your business needs.
Ease of use
Look for a platform that offers an intuitive interface and easy navigation. The ability to easily set up, modify, and maintain chatbots is essential. Additionally, consider if the platform offers visual building tools, pre-made chatbot templates, or drag-and-drop functionalities. These can significantly simplify the process of creating and updating your chatbot. This is particularly important if your team doesn’t have dedicated technical experts. The solution should also have integrations with the services you already use, like your CRM or email marketing platform.
Scalability
As your business grows, your chatbot should be able to scale accordingly. This means handling a larger number of interactions, supporting more complex conversation paths, and adapting to new business needs. Consider whether the chatbot platforms you’re looking into can support an increase in volume without compromising performance. Also, look at how easily new features or updates can be implemented as your requirements evolve.
Analytics and reporting
Data-driven insights are crucial for optimizing the performance of your chatbot. So, choose a chatbot that offers comprehensive analytics and reporting tools. These should track key metrics like engagement rates, resolution times, and customer satisfaction scores. Analysis of chatbot interactions can reveal patterns and areas for improvement, helping you refine the chatbot’s responses and overall strategy.
Customization options
A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for chatbots. Your business is unique, and your chatbot should reflect that. Look for platforms that offer extensive customization options, allowing you to tailor the chatbot’s appearance, conversation flows, and functionalities to match your brand and specific use cases. Customization can range from simple cosmetic changes to the development of custom integrations and workflows.
Ongoing support
Post-deployment support is essential for maintaining the effectiveness of your chatbot. Choose a provider that offers reliable customer support. This could include quick access to technical support, regular software updates, and resources like guides and tutorials. Consider the access to support channels like email, phone, or live chat, and the provider’s reputation for customer service.
Pricing
Finally, the cost is a significant factor. Chatbot pricing models vary widely, from subscription-based to pay-per-use. Assess the pricing structure against your budget and the return on investment you expect from the chatbot. Be mindful of potential additional costs such as for custom development, integrations, or overage fees. It’s important to choose a solution that offers the features you need at a price that makes sense for your business.