Don't just slap on a chatbot: building AI that works before you ask
Feb 22, 2025 · 5:46
Arthur Objartel of Evil Martians argues that slapping chatbots on products is misguided, advocating instead for proactive AI that assists users before they ask. Drawing from his work on Tegon, an AI-powered issue tracker, he demonstrates three interaction modes—suggestion, action, and question+action—that operate within the natural workflow without chat interfaces. The AI triggers contextually relevant questions and actions, such as splitting issues or suggesting subtasks, all reversible with one click. He proposes three rules: AI supplements user agency, offers recommendations not force, and integrates without breaking flow. Examples extend to code editors catching pitfalls and design tools promoting accessibility. The talk challenges the status quo, urging experimentation beyond reactive chat interfaces.
