ICi

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**iCi** (*Interactive Conversation Interface*) is an innovative creation by Jellyvision, a renowned company known for its exceptional contributions in the realm of interactive games.

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Jellyvision has had great success in the world of gaming, its ultimate mission goes beyond entertainment. They sought to redefine the way humans and machines interact, seeking to establish a new paradigm in the field. So beginning in 1993, Jellyvision explored methods of creating a form of communication that seamlessly combines interactivity and audio-visual elements. This ambition led to the development of an interactive communication interface, affectionately called iCi (pronounced "icky").

A hallmark of Jellyvision's work, whether in their hugely successful game franchises or their recent customer service projects, is the creation of an immersive experience in which users feel as if they are engaged in an authentic conversation with a character. This essence defines the iCi experience and embodies Jellyvision's commitment to excellence.

At the heart of Jellyvision's work is the psychological connection between humans and the machines that interact with them.

## History

During the early development of JACK, Harry realized that the design principles used in the game to make the host sound like "he was really there," could be applied well beyond games. He discovered that the same methods could be used to make a more engaging interactive experience dealing with any subject matter at all. Over the next several years, Harry applied what he called The Jack Principles to create demonstration projects for interactive news, advertising, financial advice, commercials and tour guides. It is through this research that Harry discovered the core concepts of a new way for a human being to interact with a machine: the Interactive Conversation Interface (iCi - pronounced "icky"). He codified The Jack Principles of the Interactive Conversation Interface in a document first presented at the Game Developer's Conference in 1997. In the GDC's survey of attendees, Harry's presentation was the highest rated of the conference. That totally went to his head and he lost his edge for a few years.

Interactive Conversational Interface was part of the curriculum at Indiana University and Columbia College Chicago. Harry has been a visiting professor at both universities and has spoken at conferences and other events on iCi and Jack's Principles.

## The iCi Demo Kitchen (Demos)

The Interactive Conversational Interface (iCi) can be used for anything from providing investment advice, to telling you the news, to selling your computer. The following is a list of demonstrations

### Computer Sales

Buying a computer online can be a confusing and daunting experience. Imagine how much more enjoyable it would be if a caring and knowledgeable stranger guided you through the process of finding the perfect computer system to match your needs.

### Investnet

Today's uncertain financial marketplace makes investing your money more difficult than ever. Check out Jellyvision's idea for demystifying the process of investing and helping you to plan wisely for a solid financial future.

### Music Discovery

So many songs, so little time. Lenny Cranker, human music encyclopedia, helps you discover the music you never knew you loved and, with your input, helps you create the mix tape of your dreams.

### IVR Banking

Whether you're transferring funds, paying bills or utilizing any number of bank-by-phone services, it's a lot easier when you're talking to a person rather than punching in a bunch of numbers. iCi shows you just how simple banking by phone can be.

### Interactive Tour Guide

Ever been stuck in a strange city with no place to go? Well, as long as you have a cell phone and this iCi application, you'll never be stranded again.

### IVR Shopping

At last, a way to place orders over the phone that doesn't strand you in a button-pressing, call-flow labyrinth. See Jellyvision's take on making phone orders quick, easy and truly conversational.

### IVR News

With the unreliability of news on the internet and the sensationalism of TV news programs, it's pretty difficult to stay current with the goings-on in the world. See Jellyvision's version of how learning the day's news can be a much more personalized and educational experience. Also view Part II.

### Streamium

Philips introduces the Streamium MC-i200, their new home audio system that gives you access to thousands of internet radio stations at the touch of a button, and Jellyvision helps you decide if it's the system for you.

### Surepayroll.com

SurePayroll.com saves companies money and time by using patented technology to process payroll efficiently and safely over the Internet. Jellyvision created this demo to show just how good Surepayroll.com really is.

#### History

When Sure Payroll founder and president Troy Henikoff was looking for someone to create an engaging Flash experience to demonstrate the benefits of Sure Payroll's services, he naturally thought of Jellyvision.

### Street-Level

Street-Level is an after-school program in Chicago that wanted a quick, fun, and easy way to gather information from students who participate in their activities. Jellyvision created this interactive survey as a possible solution to their problem.

### ConnectEDU College Preferences Interview

Helps students identify their college preferences and realize their educational potential.

### Rush University Medical Center

Guides people with trouble sleeping through the available options and treatments.

### Retail Sales

See how Interactive Conversation can guide you through the process of upgrading your washing machine.

### Autodesk

A series of "interactive advisers" helps professionals find software solutions from architecture to engineering to mapping.

### Lenny's Crank Mix

Lenny Cranker, human music encyclopedia, helps you create the mix tape of your dreams.