The following sequence diagram illustrates a dialogue between a customer (C) and an agent (A) about listing movie showtimes in Atlanta. In spite of the lack of constraints in everyday telephone conversations, this dialogue can be represented as a structured task-oriented diagram.

C: I’m looking for the Buford Cinema. Recognize Words? A: Hmm - no I don’t have it listed.   Let me try something else. Ok, the only thing I have in Buford is Movies Eight on highway twenty. C: That sounds like it. ... A: Excuse me? C: I’m looking for the Buford Cinema. ... A: OK, and you’re wanting to know what’s showing there or C: Yes, please ... A: Is that at Buford Mall? C: I don’t even know if, it’s just a strip mall ... A: They’re showing A Troll In Central Park. C: No. A: Frankenstein ... no Recognize Intention? yes Recognize Topic? yes no Task can be Completed? yes no yes no yes