Expert knowledge for digital decisions
Is an AI Chatbot Worth It for Your Support?
Short answer
The Prerequisite
A chatbot responds based on your documentation. If this is incomplete, contradictory, or outdated, it will respond accordingly – just faster and more confidently.
First, check: Is there a current, unambiguous answer for each of the twenty most common questions? If not, that is the first step, not the bot.
What Works Well
- Recurring factual questions with clear answers
- Information available around the clock
- Reference to the correct section in the documentation
- Pre-qualification before handing over to humans
What Does Not Work
- Promises regarding prices, deadlines, or conditions
- Individual contract questions
- Anything that requires discretion
- Complaints – no one wants to talk to a machine here
Requirement: Handing Over to Humans
A bot must always be able to hand over to a person, and the way to do so must not be hidden. A bot that you cannot exit from costs customers.
Legal Notice
As of August 2, 2026, the transparency obligations of the EU AI Act will apply: A chatbot must make it clear that you are speaking with a machine. This must be visibly included in the interface, not in the privacy policy.
Realistic Expectation
A well-built bot answers a portion of inquiries independently and prepares the rest. It does not replace support – it gives support time for cases that truly need a person.
Key facts
- Prerequisite
- Well-maintained, unambiguous documentation
- Requirement
- Visible handover to humans at all times
- As of August 2, 2026
- Labeling obligation under the EU AI Act
Sources
All external claims are backed by traceable sources.-
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KI-Verordnung (Verordnung (EU) 2024/1689) Amt für Veröffentlichungen der EU