We live in the era of automation. There is no doubt about it.
From simple Excel macros to supercomplex algorithms used in Tesla GigaFactory or Google X lab: different types of scripts, software bots, and actual machines are being created every day to help people work faster, better, and more efficiently.
On the other hand, automation is often nothing more than just a buzzword. It is being put in every pitch deck by startups seeking funding, and it’s part of every second strategy plan built by operation executives. In many instances, there is nothing behind these proposals – just empty words without a deeper exploration of the topic.
But you can achieve so much with properly planned and executed automation! Increasing ROI, shortening payment cycles, freeing your employees from mundane tasks, reducing operational errors… The list is endless.
Automating your accounting, finance and real estate processes with RPA.
How to go about automating your business? What processes should I automate, how to start, and what pitfalls to avoid to ensure the success of the implementation?
You will find the answers in this article. Read on!
What Types of Automation are Out There for your Business?
First, you need to decide what type of automation will be the most suitable for your business.
Depending on the complexity of the task that is selected for automation, there are a few options you have:
Tool-dedicated scripting
Tool-dedicated scripting can be used for automating simple tasks inside a specified application. Deployment usually takes a few days and is limited to a single application. Examples? Excel macros, Outlook rules, SAP scripting.
Automation scripts
These are scripts written using a specific programming language, i.e., PowerShell or Python. They can be used to automate a bit more complex tasks. This automation will still have a limited application interaction. The development and deployment of these usually take a few weeks.
Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
Robotic Process Automation allows the building of more complex automation. It enables the connection of various tools (CRMs, SAPs, databases, etc.) and automates the processing of data and documents between them.
Thanks to automation platforms, such as UiPath or Blue Prism, the development and deployment usually take a few weeks and are relatively low cost. These platforms are also built with the low-code principle, so the developers can focus more on tasks than the tool they use.
There is also a matter of user interface – RPA can automate any application by interacting with it using UI „just like a human.”
Dedicated Systems/Applications
100% custom-made applications, allowing for automating multiple processes and tasks of the highest complexity, all in one box, written from scratch. There is no limit to what can be achieved here, but the same goes for the potential cost. The full deployment time can be counted in months, or even years.
Automating your business processes with Intelligent Automation is always a great idea.