Rival Launches First Tool in AI 'Framework'

In Vancouver, Canada, conversational research specialist Rival Technologies has launched the first elements of a 'Multi-Agent AI Framework', which it says will build into a modular, scalable system of AI Agents designed to enhance every stage of the research process.

The first launch is an Unstructured Data Agent, to help research teams make sense of qualitative feedback at scale. Features include Thoughtfulness Scoring, which evaluates the depth, relevance and quality of open-ended responses; AI Probing, generating contextual follow-up questions; AI Summarization; and Insight Reels, which turn open-ends and video recordings into 'stakeholder-ready' video narratives.

The company plans to release Agents for Planning & Development, Analysis, and Reporting & Knowledge, for use either individually or together. In addition it will offer 'Super Agent', an all-in-one model capable of managing the full end-to-end research process. Rival stresses that 'human oversight will remain essential, ensuring researchers review, guide and refine AI outputs.'

CEO and founder Andrew Reid (pictured) says the framework offers clients flexibility: ''They can opt-out of AI, use features selectively, or embrace full Agents - all while keeping human expertise at the center.' Jennifer Reid, Co-CEO and Chief Methodologist of Rival Group, the parent company of Rival Technologies and Reach3 Insights, comments: 'This is not about automation for automation's sake. We're giving researchers superpowers - more time for strategic thinking, more confidence in their insights, and more compelling ways to deliver value to the business.'

Rival's approach includes multiple safeguards: researchers remain in control as above; customers can opt in to use whichever tools and workflows they wish; and the modules feature data security, compliance and governance 'embedded by design'.

The firm is currently recruiting companies to participate in its AI Early Access Program.

Web site: www.rivaltech.com/ai .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.