Voice Search Redefines The Healthcare Consumer Experience

October 1, 2018

“I’m Sorry, Dave, I’m Afraid I Can’t Do That…Yet.”

// By Keir Bradshaw //

In 1968, MGM Studios released the Stanley Kubrick/Arthur C. Clarke movie 2001: A Space Odyssey. Although not the first representation of voice interaction with computer-based artificial intelligence, the narrative elements between the lead characters, Dave and HAL 9000, foreshadow the aspirations and frustrations we are realizing today in modern voice search devices.

As is often the case with science fiction, the timing is off — though only by a decade — and the devices we interact with are much smaller and cooler than anticipated. Gone are the large-scale computers represented in the film. Instead we have handheld smartphones and smart speakers controlling elements of our surroundings, and acting as advisors and researchers for our every question and request.

Whether you’re asking Siri, Alexa, your Google Assistant, Bixby, or Cortana, user expectations for search and exploration on the web are quickly changing from keyboard/touch-based input to vocalization and audio response.

For healthcare marketing professionals, there are three important questions to ask when considering voice search:

• Is this a fad or a trend?
• How does voice search apply to healthcare organizations and their digital properties?
• Which tools will increase relevance in voice search?

Knowing the answers to these questions will ensure that you’re prepared for the future-state of voice search.

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