Websites must now cater to two distinct audiences: humans and artificial intelligence (AI) systems. For a company’s online presence to be effective, both groups must find value in the site. If AI cannot comprehend the fundamental details of what a business offers—such as products, pricing, and next steps—companies face potential losses in visibility and readership.
The modern web experience is framed by two concepts: Human User Experience (UX) and Agent User Experience (Agent UX). Human UX involves the traditional aspects of design and usability, while Agent UX focuses on how effectively machines can interpret a site’s content. Many businesses currently implement Agent UX poorly, featuring unclear messaging, hidden pricing, and disorganized site structures, which hinder AI’s ability to parse information.
For a website to be deemed “parseable” by AI, it must provide clear information that answers critical queries, including the nature of the offerings, target audience, pricing, and user actions. This requires adherence to several principles, such as prominent declarations of what the product does, straightforward pricing, clear policy outlines, and structured data that matches visible content.
The overarching goal is to transform websites into tools that not only appeal to human users but are also optimized for AI systems, enhancing both discoverability and conversions. Clarity is paramount; if AI cannot easily extract essential facts, businesses risk being overlooked in a saturated digital landscape.
Why this story matters:
- The shift toward AI understanding websites highlights the necessity for businesses to adapt their online strategies.
Key takeaway:
- Websites must prioritize clarity and structure to ensure both human users and AI can parse and understand the content effectively.
Opposing viewpoint:
- Some argue that traditional SEO practices are sufficient and that a focus on AI can distract from essential user engagement strategies.