Frequently Asked Questions about ATOM

1. What sorts of applications can the ATOM Spoken Dialogue SDK voice-enable?

   Basically, any application can be voice-enabled. We have compiled a list of applicatins that we think are especially appropriate for voice user interfaces. In particular, applications where standard user interfaces using mouse and keyboard are not appropriate will benefit most. This includes hands-free appliactions such as car navigation or interaction with robots.

2. How do I learn how to use the ATOM Spoken Dialogue SDK?

   Included in the SDK are samples that demonstrate how voice enable an application and how to write dialogue scripts. Most of Atom's functionality can be accessed through standard-compliant XML files such as SRGS, SISR or EcmaScript for which plenty of documentation is freely available on the web. Our proprietary extensions to the standards are documented and explained with sample applications.

3. How long does it take to develop a spoken dialogue application with Atom?

   This depends on the scope of the application you would like to develop. The ATOM Spoken Dialogue SDK accelerates the delevopment process by providing highly integrated, powerful language processing components. Depending on the scope of the application and your familiarity with the XML formats used, you should be able to develop prototypes within hours or days.

4. Can I integrate my own speech recognizer / TTS system / database / application with Atom?

   Yes, you certainly can. APIs are provided to let you extend the core functionality of the ATOM Dialogue Runtime Engine.

5. I don't need a real dialogue system, I just want my application to act on voice commands. Does the ATOM Spoken Dialogue SDK support that?

   Yes, it does. You will be pleased to know that all the features that make application integration easy support this case as well.

6. I don't really know how to develop a spoken language application.

   We offer consulting services to help you develop or develop for you all relevant aspects of a spoken language application. Please contact us for further information.