I use similar approach to generate random notifications about entering/leaving zones. It is described here
To your questions:
- yes, it is (both clunky and the best
) I believe this is general approach to move towards getting responces fro different services on request - simlar to how you can now get weather forecast. - In my example ypou can see how I incorporated specific entities states into conversation request. Not saying this is the best, but at least works as intended.