The recent advancements in computing power and related technologies have driven the trends of automation and digitization across industries. As a result, Process Automation via digital robots, or RPA as it’s known, has become a popular option, especially for businesses new to automation. Here are five things to know about RPA to determine whether it is a good fit for your organisation:
1. RPA uses digital bots, not physical robots
Despite the fact that the word “robotic” often shows up next to process automation (RPA), it does not involve physical robots. Instead, it uses digital bots programmed to perform rule-based virtual tasks. RPA is one of the most accessible and useful process automation tools, applicable to almost any part of a business, not just assembly or physical fabrication. RPA bots can work 24/7 without sacrificing accuracy, making them ideal for handling high-volume internal tasks that may cause bottlenecks or employee burnout.
2. RPA does not replace jobs
Intelligent automation often gives rise to the misconception that it is intended to replace human workers. While RPA tools can perform tasks like data entry, transfer, and validation more efficiently and accurately than human workers, they are not designed to replace jobs. Instead, RPA is a productivity tool designed to improve efficiency and free up time for workers to focus on more complicated, higher-value tasks. By using these bots, businesses can streamline operations while keeping employees more engaged in their work and focused on their most productive functions.
3. RPA has limitations
While Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is a versatile solution, it may not be suitable for all tasks that you wish to automate. RPA is most effective for high-volume, rule-based functions, and may struggle with tasks that require complex reasoning or handling a variety of exceptions. Some debate surrounds whether RPA should be considered an Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, as it lacks iterative improvements commonly associated with machine learning (ML) in AI systems. XBP Europe’s Intelligent Workflow Automation (IWA) can assist in scaling up your processes with 99% accuracy and compliance.
4. RPA isn’t all-or-nothing
It’s important to note that RPA is not an all-or-nothing solution. It’s highly flexible and can be integrated into existing technology, offering more visibility and improving flexibility throughout your organisation. Businesses can even select specific tasks or parts of processes to automate, which can greatly enhance efficiency and reduce the workload for employees. This is particularly relevant in government organisations, where tasks like procurement, finance, Freedom of Information Act responses, form data analysis, and data reconciliation between systems can benefit from automation.
Businesses can even select specific tasks or parts of processes to turn over to RPA. Solutions that automate the more repetitive, monotonous steps in long, involved processes can go a long way towards improving efficiency and easing the workload for employees.
5. RPA is growing in popularity
RPA is growing in popularity, with 53% of organisations already utilising some form of RPA, according to a recent report by Deloitte. Those that fail to take advantage of RPA risk falling behind the competition, as businesses seek efficiency-enabling technology to quickly recover from the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
To ensure success in this new working environment, it’s crucial to understand how your company can leverage IWA. XBP Europe can customise the solution to meet your unique requirements.
Reach out to us and we can customise the solution to meet your requirement.