ROLE: | Designer/Developer |
DATE: | Aug 2017 - present |
CLIENTS: | Keynotes, Workshops |
TOOLS: | ASK, AWS, Node.js, HTML, CSS |
As a Developer Advocate for the Alexa Skills Kit (ASK), it was my job to inspire developers and build momentum for the platform. When I started there were fewer than 500 skills in the store. Building interest, community, tools, training materials - these were the challenges.
I taught myself how to make skills and noted where the experience could be better. As each new template was published, I built the skill to test the code and written tutorial. I gave regular feedback about usablity, developer tools, training materials, and events. I wrote tutorials and came up with new ideas for voice apps like Skill Master, Speak Gelato, and Music Minus One - which highlighted different APIs or possabilities for skill builders.
I wanted Alexa to speak more during workshops (the medium is the message!). Given the browser-based tools, I also needed an HTML presentation to avoid context switching. But the big idea was to present content in any order - so as to encourage a more natural dialog flow with the audience.
I was a significant contributer to developer education and the global skill count. More specifically, I was the first person to introduce Alexa and skill-making in Germany. As a result, Alexa and skill building gained considerable traction in Europe. The number of skills available in Germany went from zero to 400+ in the 6 weeks I was there.
Context is Key
The Rise of voice
AWS Services
Show Master Intents
Teaching the Parts of (AI) Speech