"The most dangerous phrase in the language is, 'We've always done it this way.'"

- Grace Hopper

AUTOMATION

Identifying the right processes to automate

As advocates for robotic process automation (RPA), we frequently address questions like, "Would my business benefit from RPA, and what processes should I automate?" The answer: automate rule-based processes with minimal variance and human intervention. Here's what you need to consider when bringing an AI workforce into your life.

To determine if RPA would benefit you, follow these steps:

Step 1: Do your research

With RPA’s growing popularity, many consultancies and tech agencies offer bot-building options. Take the time to investigate both suppliers and your internal needs. Thorough research is essential to confirm if RPA suits your needs.

Step 2: Choose potential processes for automation

Start small. Automating too many processes at once can slow progress. Define each process in detail, including exceptions and edge cases, to ensure a smoother transition to automation.

Step 3: Define the process

Gather the people who work with the process and define every step with them. Identify the start and end points early to focus the discussion. Create a detailed map of everything in between.

Step 4: See the process in action

Observe the defined process in real life to identify any missed steps or impractical aspects. Innovate around the process before going digital to ensure a better RPA product.

Step 5: Improve the process

Streamline the process by addressing bottlenecks and inefficiencies. RPA allows for concurrent task management, enhancing efficiency. Frequent iterations help optimise the process.

Step 6: Future proof the process

Once you're satisfied with the process, have subject matter experts (SMEs) review and improve it. Finalise the process as a standard operating procedure document, useful for both automation and training new employees.

If you need help with certain functions, consider these automation-friendly processes:

• Launching and using various applications (e.g., opening emails, logging into applications, moving files)

• Integrating with enterprise tools (e.g., connecting to system APIs, reading and writing to databases)

• Augmenting data (e.g., web scraping, social media data)

• Data processing (e.g., following logical rules, making calculations, extracting data, inputting data to forms, merging data)

RPA offers an exciting opportunity if you plan its implementation properly. Being prepared for your no-collar workforce is crucial.

Summary

In 2024, successful automation starts with identifying repetitive, high-volume tasks that can be standardised and offer a high ROI. Collaborate with your team to define processes in detail. Following these steps will enhance efficiency and reduce costs through thoughtful automation.

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