Halo FAQs
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FAQs
What is Halo?
Halo is CM.com ’s AI agent designed to take over and optimize entire business processes. It can automate workflows, integrate with existing (even legacy) systems, and handle tasks that traditionally require human interaction with software.
How is Halo different from a regular chatbot?
Unlike most chatbots that perform relatively simple, text-based tasks (e.g., answering FAQs), Halo functions as a full-fledged AI agent. It not only communicates with users but can also automate and carry out complex processes across various software platforms.
What problem does Halo aim to solve?
Halo aims to streamline and optimize business processes by automating repetitive digital tasks. It reduces manual intervention, cuts down on errors, and enhances efficiency in sectors such as customer service, marketing, and operations.
Why does CM.com believe Halo could replace certain jobs?
According to CM.com CEO Jeroen van Glabbeek, Halo can handle much of the computer-based work people currently do, particularly repetitive or data-entry tasks. As the AI agent can “understand” instructions and then reconfigure processes, it can perform tasks that would otherwise require human intervention.
Which industries can benefit from Halo?
Any industry that relies on repetitive digital workflows can potentially benefit from Halo. This includes customer service (e.g., call centers), retail, healthcare (for regulatory reporting), finance (for administrative tasks), and more.
Which companies have already used Halo?
Halo has been tested by the parent company of the Kruidvat retail chain, as well as by Delta Fiber, an internet service provider. Kruidvat uses Halo for its online chat function to answer product queries and automatically report any mentioned side effects of medications.
How does Halo work within Kruidvat’s operations?
At Kruidvat, Halo automates the process of reporting any side effects mentioned by customers when inquiring about products. This reporting is legally required, and previously it was done manually. Now, Halo detects relevant mentions and forwards them automatically to the appropriate regulatory bodies.
How does Halo integrate with older software systems?
Halo is designed to make “plug-and-play” integrations possible, even with legacy software. By leveraging AI to interpret instructions and automate tasks, it can connect and interact with older systems without a complete overhaul of existing infrastructure.
What sets Halo apart from US-based AI competitors?
CM.com emphasizes European data privacy standards as a key differentiator. All of Halo’s data handling and processing occur within Europe, ensuring compliance with stringent EU privacy regulations (such as GDPR). This gives businesses greater control and oversight of their data.
How does Halo ensure data privacy?
CM.com keeps all client data in Europe and abides by the strictest privacy legislation. They also use large language models (LLMs) like Llama but do not directly share client data with these models. Instead, information is processed in a controlled manner to prevent unauthorized data flows outside the EU.
Which AI models does Halo use?
Halo uses multiple language models, including Llama. However, CM.com ’s system architecture ensures that customer data remains segregated so it is not exposed directly to these models in a way that could compromise privacy.
How much has been invested in Halo’s development?
CM.com has invested around €10 million in the development of Halo. This is considered significant in the Netherlands but relatively modest compared to typical AI budgets in the United States.
How long has Halo been in development?
Halo has been in development for about a year, with a dedicated team of around 100 employees at CM.com working on it.
Does Halo only handle customer support tasks?
No. While customer support (such as chat functions) is a visible application, Halo can also automate back-end processes, compliance tasks (e.g., reporting side effects), and any repetitive digital workflow, making it a versatile tool for many departments.
Will Halo replace all human roles?
Halo is designed to replace or reduce the workload of roles that involve repetitive, rules-based digital tasks. It does not replace jobs requiring complex human judgment, creativity, empathy, or highly specialized expertise—but it may significantly lessen the need for routine data-entry and administrative positions.
Is there a risk of data being sent outside the EU?
CM.com states that one of its primary advantages is keeping data within Europe. By carefully managing data flows and ensuring compliance with EU privacy laws, the company aims to eliminate the risk of sensitive data being transferred outside the EU.
How does Halo handle regulatory obligations?
Halo is capable of automating the reporting of legally mandated data. For instance, in the case of medication side effects at Kruidvat, Halo automatically forwards the necessary information to the relevant health authorities or registries, fulfilling compliance requirements.
Is Halo user-friendly for employees without technical backgrounds?
Yes. One of Halo’s core features is its conversational interface, allowing users to simply “speak” or type instructions. This alleviates the need for complex software configuration skills, making the AI accessible to a broader range of employees.
Can Halo scale to handle large volumes of data and transactions?
Halo is designed for enterprise-level usage, meaning it should be capable of scaling to large and complex business environments.
How does Halo compete against bigger US software giants?
CM.com believes that its strict adherence to European data privacy standards and an enterprise-ready AI agent give it a unique selling point. While US firms also invest heavily in AI, CM.com hopes to attract businesses concerned about data sovereignty and GDPR compliance.
What types of companies is CM.com targeting with Halo?
CM.com targets a broad range of enterprises—retailers, telecom/internet providers, financial institutions, healthcare, and beyond—essentially any business looking to automate repetitive tasks and streamline internal processes with an AI agent.
Does implementing Halo require major infrastructure changes?
Halo’s aim is to minimize the need for overhauling existing systems. By design, it can work on top of legacy systems. CM.com highlights its ability to integrate with older software through AI-driven automation rather than forcing companies to adopt completely new platforms.
How quickly can businesses see ROI from Halo?
AI-driven automation typically leads to cost savings in labor and efficiency. Many companies may notice process improvements and cost reductions once Halo is fully integrated into their workflows.
Will AI adoption continue to grow in the near future?
In the coming years, the role of AI in automating digital tasks will expand rapidly, especially for repetitive roles in call centers, marketing, and other sectors where processes can be digitized.
Could Halo be used outside Europe?
Although CM.com highlights EU data privacy compliance, there is nothing stopping international companies from deploying Halo if they are comfortable keeping their data within Europe and adhering to European privacy standards.
Where can I learn more about Halo?
If you’d like to see Halo in action, please visit this page to request a demo.