How The Understanding Engine Works

Transform difficult conversations into breakthroughs. Our revolutionary AI-powered platform guides you step-by-step through any challenging discussion, whether it's with your partner, family, coworkers, or even preparing solo.

Your Journey to Better Communication

1

Choose Your Path

Start solo to prepare for a difficult conversation, or invite someone to collaborate. Tell us your topic and how much time you have - we'll customize the experience just for you.

2

AI Breaks It Down

Watch as our AI instantly transforms your overwhelming problem into 3-7 manageable pieces. Based on your time and complexity settings, we create the perfect roadmap for resolution.

3

Expert AI Guidance

Our "secret sauce" AI mediator guides you with empathy and wisdom. It catches misunderstandings before they escalate and suggests better ways to express yourself.

4

Find Common Ground

Watch disagreements transform into understanding. Our AI highlights shared values and common goals you didn't even know you had.

5

Turn Talk Into Action

No more endless discussions that go nowhere. Get specific, achievable action items that both parties agree to - complete with deadlines and accountability.

6

See Real Progress

Track your communication improvements over time. Celebrate wins, learn from patterns, and watch your relationships transform.

Two Powerful Modes

The Understanding Engine Workflow
1

Solo Mode: Prepare & Practice

Start alone to explore your feelings, practice difficult conversations, or prepare for a real discussion. Perfect for processing emotions before engaging with others.

2

Collaborative Mode: Work Together

Invite your partner, family member, or colleague to join. Work through issues together with AI mediation guiding you both toward mutual understanding.

3

Smart Complexity Management

Tell us how complex your issue is (1-10) and how much time you have (15-60 min). We'll create the perfect session - from 1 simple question to 70 detailed prompts.

4

Real-Time AI Mediation

Our AI doesn't just watch - it actively helps. It reframes harsh messages, identifies emotional triggers, and suggests empathetic responses that honor both perspectives.

5

Automatic Action Planning

No need to take notes. Our AI captures commitments and turns them into clear action items. Both parties agree before anything is finalized.

6

Measurable Relationship Growth

See your communication skills improve session by session. Track completed action items, resolved issues, and celebrate your progress together.

What Makes Us Different

Beyond Basic Chatbots

Our AI truly understands context, emotion, and nuance. It reads between the lines to help you communicate what you really mean, not just what you say.

The Secret Sauce

Our proprietary mediation algorithm combines psychology, conflict resolution theory[1], and advanced AI to create breakthrough moments in every conversation.

Your Privacy Matters

Standard web encryption protects your conversations. Your discussions are yours alone - we never sell data or use your personal information for AI training.

Track Real Progress

See your communication patterns improve over time. Our analytics show you exactly where you've grown and what to focus on next.

Complexity Made Simple

Our breakthrough algorithms turn overwhelming problems into bite-sized pieces. Like a skilled therapist, we know exactly how to break down any issue.

Always Available

Access from any device - phone, tablet, or computer. Even use voice calls when typing isn't convenient. We're here whenever you need us.

Real-World Success Stories

Sarah & Mike: From Fighting to Understanding

"We were on the brink of divorce, arguing about money daily. The Understanding Engine helped us see we both wanted security - just different kinds. Now we budget together peacefully."

Tech Startup: Remote Team Breakthrough

"Our distributed team was falling apart. The Understanding Engine helped us realize our 'conflict' was really just different time zones and communication styles. Problem solved in one session!"

The Johnson Family: Healing After Years

"My teenager wouldn't talk to me for months. Using solo mode, I practiced approaching him differently. When we finally talked using the platform together, we both cried. He's my best friend now."

Business Partners: Saving a 10-Year Partnership

"We were ready to dissolve our business partnership. The AI mediator helped us see our 'irreconcilable differences' were actually complementary strengths. We're more profitable than ever."

Frequently Asked Questions

The AI mediator analyzes the content and tone of messages in real-time, identifying potential misunderstandings, escalating emotions, or unproductive patterns. It then provides gentle interventions to guide the conversation back on track. These interventions might include suggesting a pause, recommending a reframe of a statement, or highlighting areas where participants might be talking past each other. The mediator is designed to be supportive rather than intrusive, and you can adjust its level of involvement based on your preferences.

The Understanding Engine is designed to support a wide range of conversations, from personal relationship discussions to professional team collaborations. However, it's particularly valuable for complex or potentially difficult conversations where structured support can help. The platform is not intended for emergency situations, crisis intervention, or as a replacement for professional mental health services when those are needed. It works best when all participants are genuinely interested in reaching understanding and resolution.

When you start a conversation, you'll define the main topic or issue. Our AI then analyzes this topic and suggests potential sub-issues that might need to be addressed. For example, if your main topic is "Planning our family vacation," sub-issues might include "Budget considerations," "Destination preferences," "Timing and scheduling," and "Activities and interests." You can accept, modify, or add to these suggestions. As the conversation progresses, the platform helps you track progress on each sub-issue and ensures nothing important gets overlooked.

No technical expertise is required. The Understanding Engine is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. The interface guides you through each step of the process, from setting up a conversation to tracking action items. We provide helpful tooltips and contextual guidance throughout the platform. For users who want to dive deeper, we offer tutorials and a comprehensive help center. Our goal is to make powerful communication tools accessible to everyone, regardless of technical background.

Privacy is a core value for us. All conversations are encrypted both in transit and at rest. Your conversation data is only accessible to you and the people you explicitly invite to participate. We do not sell or share your data with third parties. Our AI systems are trained on anonymized data and follow strict privacy protocols. You have control over your data, including the ability to export or delete it at any time. For more details, please see our Privacy Policy.

Your privacy is paramount. Here's how we protect your data:

Encryption: All conversations are encrypted using industry-standard SSL/TLS during transmission and encrypted at rest in our database.

Access Control: Only you and people you explicitly invite can see your conversations. Even our support team cannot access your conversation content without your explicit permission.

Data Usage: We never sell your data, use it for advertising, or train our AI models on your personal conversations. Your discussions remain completely private.

Anonymization: If you choose to contribute to improving our service, any data shared is fully anonymized with all identifying information removed.

Data Portability: You can export all your data at any time in multiple formats (PDF, CSV, JSON). You also have the right to delete your account and all associated data permanently.

We offer three subscription tiers to meet different needs:

Free Tier:
• 3 active sessions at a time
• Basic AI mediation features
• 30-day data retention (with export option)
• Email support
• Perfect for trying the platform

Basic - $5.00/month:
• 3 active sessions
• Advanced AI mediation with mathematical evaluation
• Unlimited sub-issue management
• Extended data retention (unlimited)
• Pass-and-play mode
• Export in multiple formats
• Priority email support

Premium - $10.00/month:
Unlimited active sessions
• Everything in Basic tier
• 24/7 QR voice mediation (5 templates)
• Premium analytics dashboard
• Voice agent for solo sessions
• Advanced AI model (GPT-4)
• Full complexity range (1-10)
• CalDAV calendar integration
• API access for custom integrations
• Mathematical evaluation framework
• Dedicated support channel
• Priority support response

Billing Details:
• Processed securely through Stripe
• Monthly recurring charges
• Cancel anytime - no contracts
• Immediate access upon payment
• Full refund within 7 days if unsatisfied

The Understanding Engine is designed to work everywhere:

Browser Compatibility:
• Chrome (version 90+)
• Firefox (version 88+)
• Safari (version 14+)
• Edge (version 90+)
• Mobile browsers on iOS and Android

Device Requirements:
• Any device with a modern web browser
• Minimum 1GB RAM recommended
• Works on desktop, laptop, tablet, and smartphone
• No software installation required

For Voice Features (Premium):
• Phone capable of receiving SMS (for verification)
• For web voice: browser microphone permissions
• For phone mediation: any phone that can make/receive calls
• Stable internet connection for real-time features

Offline Capabilities:
• Generate PDF worksheets for offline use
• Upload responses when back online
• Mobile-optimized for on-the-go access

Voice mediation provides instant conflict resolution through phone calls. Here's how it works:

Setup Process:
1. Verify your phone number (one-time setup)
2. Choose from 5 predefined templates:
  • Sibling toy disputes (15 min, speakerphone)
  • Roommate chore conflicts (20 min, two-phone)
  • Couple check-ins (30 min, speakerphone)
  • Workplace disagreements (30 min, two-phone)
  • General mediation (30 min, flexible)
3. Generate QR code or 6-digit access code
4. Share with the other party

Two Connection Methods:
QR Code: Other party scans to join instantly
Direct Dial: Call and enter 6-digit code

Mediation Modes:
Speakerphone: Both parties share one phone
Two-phone: Each person uses their own phone

AI Guidance Includes:
• Turn-based speaking with automatic muting
• Gottman Method interventions (Four Horsemen detection)
• Crucial Conversations framework
• Real-time de-escalation when needed
• SMS summary sent to both parties after the call

Limitations:
• One active voice session per user
• Sessions expire after template duration
• Premium subscription required

QR codes provide instant access to mediation for recurring conflicts. Perfect for families, roommates, and teams:

Creating QR Codes:
1. Go to your dashboard and click "Manage QR Codes"
2. Choose "Create New QR Code" and select a template:
  • Sibling Toys: For children fighting over toys/games
  • Roommate Chores: Household responsibility discussions
  • Couple Check-in: Weekly relationship maintenance
  • Workplace: Team disagreements and conflicts
  • General: Flexible mediation for any situation
3. Add participant information (names, ages, roles, notes)
4. Write custom prompts specific to your situation
5. Generate and save your QR code

Using QR Codes:
Print and Post: Put QR code on refrigerator, bulletin board, or workspace
Scan When Needed: Anyone can scan during conflicts for instant mediation
Choose Mode: Voice call (separate phones or speakerphone) or web chat
Context-Aware AI: Mediator knows participant names and history
Track Usage: See how often it's used and resolution patterns

Example Setup - "Stepson Fighting":
• Participants: Alex (age 9, usually instigator), Jordan (age 12, gets frustrated)
• Custom prompts: "What toy were you fighting over?", "How did it start?"
• Parent notes: "They fight most over Legos and video games"
• AI adapts questions and approach based on this context

Benefits:
• No need to set up new sessions each time
• AI remembers participant details and patterns
• Can add to Apple Wallet for instant access (coming soon)
• Usage analytics show improvement over time
• Works offline with generated worksheets

Best Practices:
• Place QR codes where conflicts commonly occur
• Train participants to scan before emotions escalate
• Review usage analytics monthly for insights
• Update participant notes as situations evolve

The Understanding Engine offers two powerful modes for different situations:

Solo Mode - Practice and Prepare:
• Start alone to explore your thoughts and feelings
• AI plays the role of the other person
• Practice difficult conversations safely
• Process emotions before real discussions
• Understand multiple perspectives
• Generate action items for self-improvement
• Sessions can convert to collaborative when ready

Use Solo Mode When:
• Preparing for a difficult conversation
• Processing conflict independently first
• The other person isn't ready to participate
• Working on personal communication skills
• Exploring "what if" scenarios

Collaborative Mode - Work Together:
• Real-time conversation with another person
• AI mediates between both parties
• Ensures balanced participation
• Highlights common ground
• Generates mutual action items
• Tracks agreement on solutions

Use Collaborative Mode When:
• Both parties are ready to engage
• You need real-time mediation
• Working toward mutual understanding
• Creating shared action plans
• Resolving active conflicts

Seamless Transition: All sessions start as solo. When you invite someone and they join, it automatically becomes collaborative. Your solo work is summarized to help the other person understand your perspective.

Our two-step agreement process ensures clear, mutual commitment to solutions:

Step 1: Action Items Generation
After discussing each sub-issue, the AI analyzes your conversation and generates 3-5 specific, achievable action items. These are personalized based on:
• The specific issue discussed
• Each person's communication style
• Detected traits (ADHD, anxiety, etc.)
• Time constraints mentioned
• Resources available

Personalization Examples:
• ADHD traits: Includes specific times, reminders, breaking tasks into 15-minute chunks
• Anxiety traits: Offers "good enough" criteria, flexibility options, self-compassion language
• Autism traits: Provides scripts, templates, and concrete step-by-step instructions
• Perfectionism: Sets realistic goals with progress milestones

Step 2: Summary Agreement
After agreeing to action items, the AI generates a brief summary of your discussion. Both parties must agree this accurately reflects the conversation before the sub-issue is marked complete.

Agreement Options:
• Agree to all items at once
• Agree to specific items individually
• Request modifications before agreeing
• In solo mode: Your agreement counts for both parties

Tracking Features:
• Due dates for each action item
• Progress indicators
• Email reminders (optional)
• Dashboard view of all commitments
• Export to calendar or task manager (Premium)

Our intelligent session planning adapts dramatically based on your settings:

Complexity Scale (1-10):
• 1-2: Simple disagreements (chores, schedules)
• 3-4: Moderate issues (budget, vacation planning)
• 5-6: Complex topics (parenting styles, work-life balance)
• 7-8: Deep conflicts (trust issues, major life decisions)
• 9-10: Severe challenges (infidelity, business dissolution)

Time Available (15-60 minutes):
• 15-20 min: Quick check-ins, single issue focus
• 25-35 min: Standard sessions, 2-3 issues
• 40-50 min: Deep dives, multiple perspectives
• 55-60 min: Comprehensive exploration

How They Work Together:

Complexity Sub-Issues Questions per Sub-Issue AI Model
1-2 1-2 1-2 GPT-4o-mini
3-4 2-3 2-3 GPT-4o-mini
5-6 3-4 3-5 GPT-4o-mini
7-8 4-5 5-7 GPT-4o-mini
9-10 5-7 7-10 GPT-4*

*GPT-4 used for complexity 9-10 with 45+ minutes for deeper analysis

Smart Adjustments:
• Less time = fewer questions per sub-issue
• More time = deeper exploration of each topic
• Minimum: 1 sub-issue with 1 question
• Maximum: 7 sub-issues with 10 questions each (70 total)

The AI dynamically adjusts depth and pacing to fit your available time while ensuring meaningful progress.

The Understanding Engine is fully mobile-optimized as a Progressive Web App (PWA):

Current Mobile Features:
• Works perfectly in any mobile browser
• No app store download required
• Add to home screen for app-like experience
• Touch-optimized interface
• Responsive design adapts to any screen size
• Voice input using phone's microphone
• Camera access for QR code scanning
• Offline worksheet generation
• Push notifications (when enabled)

How to Add to Home Screen:
iPhone:
1. Open understandingengine.com in Safari
2. Tap the share button (square with arrow)
3. Select "Add to Home Screen"
4. Name it and tap "Add"

Android:
1. Open understandingengine.com in Chrome
2. Tap the three dots menu
3. Select "Add to Home screen"
4. Tap "Add" when prompted

Mobile-Specific Features:
• Swipe gestures for navigation
• Keyboard automatically adjusts screen
• Portrait and landscape modes
• Battery-efficient design
• Works on cellular data or WiFi

Native Apps Coming 2025:
• iOS and Android apps in development
• Will include offline sync capabilities
• Biometric authentication
• Enhanced voice features
• Widget support for quick access

Integration options vary by subscription tier:

Free & Basic Tiers - Manual Export:
• Export action items as CSV for spreadsheets
• Download PDF summaries of sessions
• Copy/paste action items to any app
• Email action items to yourself

Premium Tier - Automatic Integration:

Calendar Sync (CalDAV):
• Google Calendar - automatic two-way sync
• Apple Calendar - iCloud integration
• Outlook/Exchange - via CalDAV
• Nextcloud Calendar - full support
• Any CalDAV-compatible calendar app

Task Management:
• Action items become calendar events with reminders
• Due dates automatically set based on discussion
• Recurring items for ongoing commitments
• Completion status syncs back to Understanding Engine

Export Formats:
• CSV - for Excel, Google Sheets
• PDF - formatted reports with signatures
• JSON - for developers and custom tools
• Markdown - for note-taking apps
• ICS - calendar file format

API Access (Premium):
• RESTful API for custom integrations
• Webhook notifications for events
• Bulk data export endpoints
• Rate limits: 1000 requests/hour
• Full API documentation provided

Coming Soon:
• Zapier integration
• Slack notifications
• Microsoft Teams connector
• Notion database sync

Here's a comprehensive comparison of all features:

Feature Free Basic ($5/mo) Premium ($10/mo)
Active Sessions 3 maximum 3 concurrent Unlimited
Data Retention 30 days Unlimited Unlimited
AI Mediation Basic Advanced + Math Advanced + Math
Sub-Issues Limited Unlimited Unlimited
Solo Mode
Collaborative Mode
Pass-and-Play
Voice Mediation ✓ (24/7 QR)
Voice Agent
Analytics Basic stats Enhanced Premium dashboard
Calendar Sync ✓ (CalDAV)
Export Options PDF only PDF, CSV All formats + API
Support Email Priority email Dedicated channel
Trait Detection Basic Full Full + Analysis
Action Items Basic Personalized Personalized + Tracking

Key Advantages of Upgrading:
Basic: 3 active sessions, unlimited data retention, advanced AI mediation
Premium: Unlimited active sessions, voice mediation, QR code access, premium analytics, priority support

We implement multiple layers of security to protect your sensitive conversations:

Account Security:
• Secure password requirements (8+ characters, complexity rules)
• Password reset via email verification
• Session timeouts after 24 hours of inactivity
• Device tracking and suspicious login alerts
• Optional 2FA for phone verification (required for voice features)

Data Protection:
• SSL/TLS encryption for all data in transit
• AES-256 encryption for data at rest
• Isolated database instances per region
• Regular security audits and penetration testing
• GDPR and CCPA compliant data handling

Infrastructure Security:
• Hosted on secure cloud infrastructure (AWS/Heroku)
• DDoS protection and rate limiting
• Regular security patches and updates
• Automated backup systems with encryption
• Geographically distributed servers

Privacy Controls:
• No employee access to conversation content
• Anonymized analytics only
• Right to deletion (forget me)
• Data portability (export everything)
• No third-party data sharing

Voice Security (Premium):
• Phone number verification required
• Temporary access tokens (5-minute expiry)
• One active session limit
• Automatic session termination
• No recording without explicit consent

Pass-and-Play mode enables face-to-face mediated conversations using a single device:

Perfect For:
• Couples on the couch with a tablet
• Family meetings around the kitchen table
• Office discussions with a laptop
• Any situation where both parties are present

How It Works:
1. Start a session and select "Pass-and-Play"
2. Enter both participants' names
3. Choose your topic and complexity
4. Take turns typing responses
5. Clear visual indicators show whose turn it is
6. AI mediator guides the conversation

Special Features:
Turn Indicators: Large, color-coded name display
Privacy Mode: Previous person's text fades while typing
Quick Switch: One-button turn handoff
Balanced Participation: AI ensures equal speaking time
Pause Function: Take breaks without losing progress

AI Adaptations:
• Monitors turn length and suggests wrapping up if needed
• Detects interruption attempts and redirects
• Ensures both perspectives are heard
• Provides gentle reminders about active listening
• Suggests when to switch speakers

Benefits Over Regular Conversation:
• Forces active listening (can't interrupt)
• Creates space for thoughtful responses
• AI catches escalation before it happens
• Written record for clarity
• Structured approach reduces chaos

Tips for Success:
• Sit side-by-side rather than across
• Use a tablet in landscape mode
• Take your full turn before passing
• Read the AI guidance together
• Celebrate small agreements

Mathematical evaluation is our advanced AI system that quantifies communication dynamics:

What It Measures:
Empathy Score (0-100): How well each person understands the other
Clarity Index: Message understandability and directness
Emotional Alignment: Convergence or divergence of feelings
Solution Quality: Practicality and mutual benefit of proposals
Progress Velocity: Rate of movement toward resolution

Technologies Used:
Bayesian Networks: Model probability of successful outcomes
Fuzzy Logic: Handle nuanced emotional states
Sentiment Analysis: Track emotional trajectories
Graph Theory: Map relationship dynamics
Machine Learning: Predict conversation patterns

How It Helps:
1. Real-time Feedback: "Empathy dropping - try acknowledging their feelings"
2. Pattern Recognition: "You both get defensive about money topics"
3. Progress Tracking: "Understanding improved significantly this session"
4. Predictive Guidance: "Based on patterns, try discussing this after dinner"
5. Success Metrics: "Your communication effectiveness: 78/100"

Premium Analytics Include:
• Session-by-session improvement graphs
• Topic-specific success rates
• Emotional pattern heat maps
• Communication style analysis
• Relationship health score
• Monthly progress reports

Example Insights:
• "You listen 73% better when discussions start with appreciation"
• "Thursday evenings show 45% higher resolution rates"
• "Breaking issues into 3 parts increases agreement by 60%"

This data-driven approach helps you understand not just what to improve, but exactly how to improve it.

Our AI analyzes communication patterns to provide personalized support (no clinical diagnoses):

Patterns We Detect:

1. Detail Orientation:
• Needs specific, concrete information
• Prefers step-by-step instructions
• AI provides: Numbered lists, clear timelines, specific examples

2. Emotion-Focused:
• Processes feelings before solutions
• Needs emotional validation
• AI provides: Empathy first, then gentle problem-solving

3. Validation Seeking:
• Benefits from reassurance
• Needs normalization of experiences
• AI provides: "It's understandable that...", "Many people feel..."

4. Perfectionism:
• Sets unrealistic standards
• Struggles with "good enough"
• AI provides: Progress milestones, 80/20 rule reminders

5. Catastrophizing:
• Jumps to worst-case scenarios
• Needs perspective balancing
• AI provides: Probability checks, best/worst/likely outcomes

6. Boundary Challenges:
• Difficulty saying no
• Over-commits or under-asserts
• AI provides: Scripts for boundary setting, self-advocacy language

7. Circular Thinking:
• Gets stuck in thought loops
• Revisits same concerns repeatedly
• AI provides: Time-boxed discussions, thought-stopping techniques

How Detection Works:
• Analyzes word choice, sentence structure, topic patterns
• Builds profile over multiple messages
• Adjusts in real-time as patterns emerge
• Never labels or diagnoses - only adapts communication

Personalized Adaptations:
Action Items: Tailored to your communication style
AI Responses: Match your processing preferences
Session Structure: Adjusted pacing and depth
Reminders: Formatted for your needs

Privacy Note: Trait detection is used only to improve your experience. No labels are stored, shared, or displayed. You can opt out in settings.

While powerful for many situations, The Understanding Engine has important limitations:

DO NOT use for:
Mental health crises - Call 988 or 911 instead
Domestic violence - Contact National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Suicidal thoughts - Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Child abuse concerns - Contact local child protective services
Legal proceedings - Consult an attorney
Medical decisions - Speak with healthcare providers

Not Recommended When:
• One party is intoxicated or impaired
• There's active physical threat or violence
• Someone is being coerced to participate
• Professional therapy is clearly needed
• Legal documentation is required
• Emergency intervention is necessary

Best Used When:
• Both parties genuinely want resolution
• Physical safety is assured
• Participants can engage calmly
• Issues are relationship/communication based
• Professional help isn't immediately needed

Gray Areas - Use Judgment:
• Discussing past trauma (may trigger; have support available)
• Major life decisions (supplement with professional advice)
• Long-standing mental health issues (use alongside therapy)
• Financial disputes over large sums (consider legal counsel)

We're Here to Help With:
• Everyday conflicts and misunderstandings
• Communication skill building
• Relationship enhancement
• Work and family challenges
• Personal growth and understanding

Remember: The Understanding Engine supplements but doesn't replace professional services. When in doubt, seek appropriate professional help first.

Start Your Journey to Better Communication

Join those who have transformed their relationships with The Understanding Engine. Your first breakthrough is just one conversation away.

Try It Free - Transform Your Relationships
References
  1. Conflict resolution theory based on: Fisher, R., Ury, W. L., & Patton, B. (2011). Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In. Penguin Books; and integrative negotiation principles from Harvard Negotiation Project.