What is
Robotic Process Automation?
RPA replicates human tasks at a significantly faster rate, it cannot make decisions but can apply if/then logic.
Records Desktop Actions
Automates manual workflows
Combines with Data Capture
Robotic Process Automation is essentially software with a very specific task. You might think of it as more advanced version of functions or macros within Excel – except that RPA sits on top of other applications, and so can link them together. RPA is used to reduce mundane, repetitive tasks being carried out by your team and can be configured to capture and interpret data, trigger responses and communicate with other digital systems. Bots are typically low-cost and easy to implement, requiring no custom software or deep systems integration. An example would be something as simple as generating an automatic response to an email.
The two types of RPA
Attended RPA
Installs on a single machine, is initiated by a human and can interact with the applications that user works with. It can perform basic tasks such as data scraping, excel automation etc
Unattended RPA
Automates basic tasks without the need for human interaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between RPA and macros/scripting?
While there are similarities between RPA and macros, the technology behind RPA is significantly more powerful. RPA provides the unique ability to integrate multiple, disparate IT systems, with a greater oversight on governance, which is not something you can ever get from macros.
What is the difference between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotic Process Automation?
RPA is essentially a piece of software which is mimicking the actions of humans, where Artificial Intelligence is the simulation of human intelligence by machines. RPA is generally a process driven piece of software, where AI is data driven. You don’t need to worry about RPA becoming self-aware and trying to take over!
How do we get our employees on board with RPA?
Successful change management is at the heart of an RPA implementation. There is a lot of buzz and media attention around automation and with this many people have their own definition and viewpoints. Concerns from employees that “a robot might take my job” are almost always misplaced and effective communication around the limitations of RPA (it can not replicate human thought) and how the technology will be used (as a tool that will reduce mundane tasks, and create more free time to concentrate on higher value work) are key.
Which software/developer should we choose?
There are a wide number of different options out there if you are considering RPA. Some are “off the shelf” solutions to a particular process, where others provide a framework that allows your team to automate work for themselves. Proservartner are independent consultants, we have a strong relationship with many of the leading software providers and can offer an honest and experience-based viewpoint as to what will work for your organisation.