Using Natural Language Processing and Machine Learning for NGOs

Natural Language Processing (NLP) refers to the conversion of understanding technology-based linguistics and communications between human and machine languages. NLP features speech recognition, natural language understanding and generation via Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computer Science. With the hybrid use of NLP, AI and Machine Learning (ML), NGOs and other organizations can wield the power of cognitive insights for automation, engagement and structuration.  

Using NLP, NGOs can structure data via Text Classification, Data Cleansing and Augmentation, Supervised Label Classification, etc. to derive hidden insights and patterns from social media conversations, public forums and feedback. With the aid of Machine Learning, datasets that are present can be easily processed and cleansed to derive optimized related texts and results with higher accuracy.

Through Deep Learning and AI, NLP Softwares can now extract data, relevant tags and text material automatically to gain hidden information that can be helpful for NGOs to improve their services and decision-making. With the recent developments in the technological compass of NLP as a backdrop,  the technical capabilities of NLP and its applications in helping people have now become innumerable. Below we explore some of these applications:

Use of NLP Translator in Speech Generating Device (SGD) - SGD are output voice-based communicators that enable people dealing with  linguistic and phonetic disorders to have a speaking voice for communication. The system connects to a typewriter where the patients can type the contents with proper aid available to recognize and distinguish the letters.

With the aid of Electronic medical health records and patient's speech, NLP applications also enable recognition of speech and prediction of diseases. Additionally, speech recognition helps in understanding and exploring health conditions that go from cardiovascular diseases to depression and even schizophrenia. NGOs focusing on anxiety disorders and other mental-related problems can utilize NLP for communication. With Sentimental Analysis, NGOs can help in analyzing the perception of patient choices and their decision drivers. 

NGOs can use NLP for Marketing purposes and content development by analyzing text in their emails, web content, messages, SMSs, etc. to identify mistakes if any, and help in auto-completing them. It also helps in chat-bot technology which facilitates the organization to customize any queries related to the NGOs domain or knowledge. The translation of languages is possible due to the mechanism of NLP and Neural networks technology integrated collectively. 

NLP algorithms can help NGOs in converting visual text representation into non-visual text (audio) mode to help visually impaired and vice versa for hearing impaired. 

Quill, a free online NLP-based tool is assisting students measurably to improve their grammar and writing. It is a solution that remedies students’ struggles with sentence fragmentation. With open-source tools and online training programs, Quill’s technical team built its fragment detection algorithm combining machine learning and natural-language processing. 

Voice-based assistants like Siri, Cortana, etc. use NLP Technology to analyze and interpret human commands and respond to the actions. A technique called Topic Modelling helps in simplifying large biomedical datasets for medical monitoring and de-constructing hidden information in medical reports to protect the privacy and preserve the clinical data.  

E.g. Livox is an NLP-powered communication tool app for people with disabilities. 

SignAll app converts sign language into text. It is a communication device that enables the deaf to interact with individuals who have no knowledge of sign language.