FAQ

Why does JeffBot keep saying nonsense?

Every once in a while, we will purge the database (our current plan with Heroku is limited at 10,000 rows). This will require JeffBot to re-learn new connections. To prevent this, just talk to JeffBot! It will learn by analyzing your sentences, then it will go on to form its own.

In some cases, it is more of a limitation of JeffBot's ability to understand the context of a sentence. See the page How does JeffBot work for more details.

I keep getting Application Error

Right now, we are hosted on the free tier of Heroku, which mandates that apps can only run for 18 hours per day. Just wait a few hours and try again. If you would like to donate so we can use a bigger server, use the Gratipay icon above (currently pending approval).

What do I need to run it locally?

You will need a copy of PostgreSQL, RabbitMQ, and two terminals. Simply edit the development portion of each file in the config directory. After that, run both ruby ./frontend/main.rb and ruby ./backend/main.rb. You may need to set the environment variable RABBITMQ_BIGWIG_URL to point to your RabbitMQ installation (for localhost, use ampq:\\localhost).

What if I'm too lazy to run it locally?

We have an installation running on heroku. You can visit it by going to https://jeffchatbot.herokuapp.com. There is also a GroupMe group, and an upcoming Kik version coming soon.

Is JeffBot safe for work (SFW)?

Nope. We were dumb enough to let the internet train JeffBot. On top of that, it would take to long to add a 'filter' for a SFW mode. In short, JeffBot is NSFW. Don't expect anything else.

Will you ever release a SFW version?

No.

Are you ever going to take JeffBot down like Microsoft did with Tay?

We have a NSFW disclaimer and nothing to lose (and no PR department that has to clean up the mess). We'll keep JeffBot up for as long as we like!

Do I have to use the website?

Nope. We have an official GroupMe group. Soon, you'll also be able to talk to JeffBot through Twitter and Kik.

Is JeffBot a danger to humanity?

As long as it doesn't gain metacognition, we should be fine.

Why is this project so bad?

JeffBot was originally a weekend project. Due to the request of multiple developers, it is now here on GitHub for all to see. Because it was meant to be a simple "test", it's probably a little rough around the edges. If you see something you can fix, feel free to contribute!