Boulder Startup Week 2024

Understanding human cognition and mental models is paramount in designing effective AI-powered products and services. People approach these systems with a diverse array of background knowledge and experiences, which shape their expectations and interactions. Misalignment between users' cognitive mental models and AI functionalities leads to frustration and abandonment.
In this talk, using real-world examples and actionable templates, we will explore a design-thinking approach to flush out user mental models and identify their challenges. Then construct a conceptual model detailing the AI system's capabilities and design principles. This foundation allows teams to brainstorm and develop solution concepts that strive for greater alignment between AI systems and human cognition. 
By aligning AI systems more closely with how people think and process information, we can forge more intuitive and satisfying user experiences, ultimately leading to more successful products and services.