Slack is launching a significant update to its Slackbot, evolving it into an AI-powered assistant. This innovative transformation aims to enhance the way users interact with the platform, moving beyond its current role of sending reminders and notifications.
The New AI Assistant Features
The redesigned Slackbot, according to Rob Seaman, Chief Product Officer at Slack (part of Salesforce), is a comprehensive tool rebuilt from the ground up. This AI companion offers several advanced functionalities that reimagine workplace productivity. Key features include:
- Custom Planning: It can create personalized plans tailored to the workspace’s unique needs.
- Message Sifting: The bot efficiently reviews extensive message histories.
- Information Gathering: It collects data from various Slack channels seamlessly.
- Natural Language Search: Users can retrieve documents or information by asking in everyday language, e.g., “Find me the document that Jay shared in our last meeting.”
- Project Coordination: The bot can organize tasks such as launching a product or developing a social media campaign by referring to relevant discussions and files.
- Calendar Integration: It taps into Microsoft Outlook and Google Calendar for scheduling meetings.
Interface and User Interaction
In this upcoming version, Slackbot’s icon will be conveniently placed next to the search bar. Users can click on this icon to access a direct messaging-like panel, where they can enter prompts to receive customized support. This interaction streamlines users’ ability to find necessary information and coordinate activities in the workspace.
Privacy and Data Security
Slack’s AI functionalities are designed with privacy in mind. Operating through Amazon Web Services’ virtual private cloud ensures that all data remains secure within the company’s firewall. Importantly, none of the data is utilized for training the AI models.
Current Testing and Future Plans
The upgraded Slackbot is currently being tested by 70,000 employees at Salesforce and is gradually rolling out to other customers. Slack aims to fully release the new AI assistant to the wider user base by the end of the year.
Companies will have the option to opt out of the AI features, yet individual users within a workspace cannot choose to disable this functionality. Existing features, like automated messages and custom response functions, will continue to be available with the new enhancements.
As Slack continues to refine its tools, the integration of AI aims to boost productivity and improve the user experience significantly.
