A client-server interaction scheme is disclosed and enables content to be retrieved, or a task to be executed, through user instructions embedded in dialog-based user communication with a specialized simulated entity. Generally speaking, the scheme involves communication between a user device having a dialog-based user interface and a communication service provider, the communication typically taking place over some form of a network. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a user utilizes traditional, dialog-based, person-to-person type interaction to request and receive information from a non-human source. The user interacts with the non-human source in a manner substantially similar to how they would typically interact with another person. The user interactions are analyzed and translated into calls not only for informational content, but also calls for action to be taken on behalf of the user.