THE SPEECH USER INTERFACE

A Speech User Interface allows speech as a means of interacting with a database system.
Rather than using the mouse and keyboard, an SUI accepts speech as input and often uses
pre-recorded and/or synthesized speech as output. SUIs are also known as Conversational
or Voice User Interfaces (VUIs).

Speech Interfaces are mainly found today in Interactive Voice Response systems whereby
an automated attendant accepts voice commands. To hear an example, call InquireTec at
1-866-247-9824 and say "Pricing Information".

However...desktop systems can also benefit from speech technology! Speech is:

• Efficient. Most people talk more efficiently than they type.
• Convenient. Some systems are ideal for hands-free/eyes-free data entry.
• Intuitive. Questions are more natural than query languages or editors.
• Accessible. SUIs are of great assistance to visually impaired users.
• Healthy. SUIs may help reduce Repetitive Strain Injuries.

Here are some recommended websites where you can learn more about SUIs:

Apple Computer, Inc.	Command & Control SR and TTS are part of the MacOS.
A V I O S	The Applied Voice Input Output Society promotes SUIs.
Cepstral,	Cepstral provides affordable, natural-sounding voices.
Microsoft Corporation	A great technical overview of SUIs by Microsoft.
Speech Technology Magazine	An online source of speech information and industry news.