Franklin Tennessee introduces AI chat assistant Frankie for citizen inquiries

Franklin City officials unveiled a new virtual assistant named Frankie during the recent Board of Mayor and Aldermen (BOMA) work session, marking a significant step towards enhancing citizen engagement through technology. Frankie, an AI-powered chat assistant developed in collaboration with CitiBot, is designed to provide residents with instant access to city information 24/7.

The introduction of Frankie aims to streamline communication between the city and its residents. Alderman Barnhill highlighted the assistant's ability to answer common inquiries, such as reporting potholes or finding out who their alderman is, directly through the city’s website. “This will guide you through the process of submitting your request,” Barnhill explained, showcasing Frankie’s user-friendly interface.

The virtual assistant is equipped with interactive features, including a live link to an interactive map that helps residents identify their alderman based on their address. This tool is expected to improve accessibility to city services and information, making it easier for residents to engage with local government.

During the meeting, officials discussed the soft launch of Frankie, which has already been tested by city staff. Feedback has been positive, with many praising its responsiveness and ability to handle a variety of questions. However, there are still areas for improvement, as some inquiries, like specific event dates, may not yet be programmed into the system.

As the city continues to refine Frankie’s capabilities, officials anticipate that this innovative tool will enhance community interaction and provide a modern solution to residents' needs. The introduction of Frankie represents Franklin's commitment to leveraging technology for better governance and citizen service.