It’s time for yet another acronym, RPA, or robotic process automation. Yes, it’s a real thing. And it helps businesses of all sizes automate repetitive tasks.
Is this like Otto, the creepy robot delivering mail to desks? No, RPA is software that carries out the dull, repetitive tasks in a process. The functions that make human workers yawn and dream of being on a beach somewhere.
The software can be programmed to automate simple things like email responses or perform numerous chores within an ERP system — your business benefits from the ability to mold the software to your specific business requirements.
In-depth IT knowledge isn’t required to get the software to work. The robot only intended for use in upper-level processes, not logic or data access.
There are downsides to this technology. Implementation disrupts current processes and job descriptions. Business platforms frequently change and affect the processes the software automates. That then requires changes to the RPA.
Are businesses already using this technology? Yes, many financial institutions use an RPA in their processes. Successful RPA implementation demands planning and having your business ducks in a row.
Standardized business processes are a must and preparing the employees affected for the change. Clean up your business data and identify several, but not tons, of tasks, fit for automation.
Process change is difficult and more comfortable to swallow in small bites. The results can be rewarding and spur company growth.
Author: Kris Keppeler, a writer who finds technology fascinating and loves humor. She writes for Crossing Genres on Medium.com and Does This Happen to You? on Channillo. Award-winning podcast producer who enjoys telling stories. Follow her @KrisKKAria on Twitter or on LinkedIn.
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