Large Language Models (LLMs) have emerged as influential instruments within
the realm of natural language processing; nevertheless, their capacity to
handle multi-party conversations (MPCs) -- a scenario marked by the presence of
multiple interlocutors involved in intricate information exchanges -- remains
uncharted. In this paper, we delve into the potential of generative LLMs such
as ChatGPT and GPT-4 within the context of MPCs. An empirical analysis is
conducted to assess the zero-shot learning capabilities of ChatGPT and GPT-4 by
subjecting them to evaluation across three MPC datasets that encompass five
representative tasks. The findings reveal that ChatGPT's performance on a
number of evaluated MPC tasks leaves much to be desired, whilst GPT-4's results
portend a promising future. Additionally, we endeavor to bolster performance
through the incorporation of MPC structures, encompassing both speaker and
addressee architecture. This study provides an exhaustive evaluation and
analysis of applying generative LLMs to MPCs, casting a light upon the
conception and creation of increasingly effective and robust MPC agents.
Concurrently, this work underscores the challenges implicit in the utilization
of LLMs for MPCs, such as deciphering graphical information flows and
generating stylistically consistent responses.Comment: Accepted by Findings of EMNLP 202