How to build your own AI chatbot (custom GPT)

If you’ve been a frustrated with AI and how sometimes answers to questions can be a bit generic, then why not create your own?

If you want to provide added value or improve your service to your clients, add a new dimension to your website or obtain more leads, a custom GPT/chatbot could be for you.

In this blog, I’ll explain how you can create your own custom GPT using platforms ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Chatbase which you can add to your website.

Don’t worry about needing to be technical, you don’t have to be as no coding is required. I’ll be guiding you through with instructions and sharing examples from my own ventures: the Social Media Navigator and the AI Running Coach at Run Racer Run.

Creating a custom GPT with ChatGPT

OpenAI’s ChatGPT has revolutionised how we interact with AI, providing a framework that’s both versatile and user-friendly. A big advantage of creating your own GPT using ChatGPT is that once complete it will be available to all ChatGPT Plus users in their ‘app market’. Look for the Explore GPTs link on the left of ChatGPT or go here: https://chat.openai.com/gpts You’ll see that you can explore a wide range of GPTs tailored to various niches, from IT Support to Travel Guides. Once you’ve created your custom GPT, you can connect with your website but you’ll need coding skills for that.

To create a tailor ChatGPT for your specific needs, consider these steps:

1. Define Your Use Case: Identify what you want your custom GPT to achieve. For instance, Social Savvy Expert was created to help users navigate through the complexities of social media strategies and answer virtually any question on using social media for business.
2. Gather Your Data: AI thrives on data and this is particularly true with a custom GPT. It’s vital that your custom GPT is trained on relevant data so collect FAQs, guides, or any content that reflects your area of expertise. You can upload files and point your GPT to any website and/or the whole internet to train on.
3. Train Your Model: Ask sample questions and if you’re not getting the answers that your users would expect that plug the knowledge gaps with additional data.

Create a Custom GPT with Chatbase and add to your website

If you’re looking for a chatbot or a custom GPT for your website, then Chatbase is an excellent option. Once again you can create a custom GPTs and add to your website without coding knowledge. An additional benefit is that you can add an email capture form to obtain leads that is displayed after your clients receive their answer. Here’s how to get started:

1. Sign Up and Create a New Project: Navigate to Chatbase.co and set up a new project.
2. Upload Your Data: Similar to ChatGPT, you’ll need to upload your data. Chatbase has an easy to use interface to manage this. Look for Sources on the top menu. You can add websites, pdfs and even paste in text for your AI to train on.
3. Customise and Deploy: Use the platform’s tools to customise your chatbot’s responses. For example, you can choose the temperature or in other words, the formality of the tone. Once satisfied, you can deploy your chatbot to your website without any need for coding. You can just copy and paste the code for an iframe into your chosen page.

Microsoft Copilot is the business choice

Microsoft Copilot has taken a significant leap forward in making GPT integration more accessible and powerful for businesses. With the introduction of Copilot Studio, creating custom GPTs has become more streamlined and user-friendly. Here’s how to use Copilot Studio to create and integrate your custom GPT:

1. Access Copilot Studio: Start by navigating to Copilot Studio within your Microsoft Copilot environment. Copilot Studio is designed to simplify the process of creating and managing custom GPT models, offering an intuitive interface for users of all skill levels.
2. Create Your Custom GPT: In Copilot Studio, you’ll have the option to create a new custom GPT project. Here, you can define the scope, parameters, and data sources for your custom model. Whether you’re aiming to enhance customer service, streamline workflows or offer personalised content, Copilot Studio provides the tools you need to tailor your GPT to your specific requirements.
3. Train and Test Your Model: With Copilot Studio, training your custom GPT model is straightforward. Upload your dataset, and use the provided tools to fine-tune your model’s performance. Copilot Studio also offers testing capabilities, allowing you to evaluate your custom GPT’s responses and make necessary adjustments before deployment.
4. Deploy and Monitor: Once satisfied with your custom GPT’s performance, Copilot Studio enables you to deploy your model across Microsoft’s ecosystem or your own applications. Monitoring tools are available to track your GPT’s interaction with users, ensuring you can continuously improve its accuracy and effectiveness.

Case Studies: Social Media Navigator and AI Running Coach

• Social Media Navigator: Designed for social media enthusiasts and professionals, this tool created using Chatbase and available on pollingersocial.co.uk uses a custom GPT to provide tailored advice, strategies, and insights into social media. By feeding the model with my extensive social media resources and expertise from the past 15 years, users receive bespoke navigation through the complex social media landscape.
• AI Running Coach (membership required for access): Also created using Chatbase, this one is a prime example of a niche application. This this AI coach offers customised training plans, motivation, and advice to runners of all levels. By training the model with running tips, training plans, physiological principles and motivational strategies, members get a personalised running adviser and coach.

Final Thoughts

Creating custom GPTs opens up a world of possibilities for businesses and individuals. By following the steps outlined above, you can harness the power of AI to meet your unique needs and objectives. Whatever your clients’ requirements, from customer services to clients of a flower delivery service to having their nutrition questions answered, a custom GPT can provide bespoke advice.

Remember, the key to success with custom GPTs lies in clear objectives, quality data, and ongoing testing and refinement. Dive in, experiment, and watch as your custom AI transforms your digital interactions.