Swedish Enforcement Authority´s Personal trainer for economic empowerment (AI chatbot)

Purpose and goal

Sweden has noted an increase in mental health issues among young people. Indebtedness at a young age can have a profound impact on quality of life and the individual choices available to young people. The Enforcement Agency wishes to develop its debt prevention capabilities through innovations that encourage behaviour in target groups through relevant digital channels. A chatbot with artificial intelligence through Facebook Messenger is a first step in this direction.

Expected results and effects

The development of an AI chatbot and the agency’s collaboration with Arabic-language network Aktarr demonstrates the significant potential of introducing personal finance issues in innovative ways to a new target group of young people. The debt-prevention information channels usually available to this group are often perceived as unapproachable. There is a need to develop even more relevant conversations and continue collaboration with external actors of relevance for the target group.

Planned approach and implementation

The project used agile methods through two sprints. The first sprint was based on Lean UX and prototype design, and built a prototype for the main project goal. Sprint 2 used Design Thinking Method and worked with the needs and driving forces of the target group. The Arabic-language network Aktarr assisted with a prototype test, which confirmed that Facebook Messenger is a relevant channel for access to the target group. The project’s choice of method was effective in generating rapid results.