Robotic Process Automation - RPA
Robotic process automation (RPA) streamlines business workflows through software and hardware systems. RPA removes back-office basic and manual repetitive tasks normally performed by human workers freeing them up to do high-end tasks. RPAs are software robots with the ability to launch and operate other software and systems. It uses scripts that automate such tasks as receiving forms, sending messages, conducting credit checks, filling forms, and filing them into folders, recording information into spreadsheets, transferring data between systems, creating reports, invoicing, answer basic questions via chats, cross-referencing data, and many more routine tasks.
The benefits of RPA
There are many benefits of deploying RPA, including:
Ease of Implementation: RPA does not require customized software packages or deep system integrations. RPA process automation is designed to be compatible with most legacy applications, so organizations can use their existing platform and systems making it easier to implement compared to other enterprise automation solutions.
Rapid cost savings: Since RPA reduces the workload of teams, staff can be reallocated towards other priority work that does require human input, leading to increases in productivity and a return on investment.
Higher customer satisfaction: Since bots and chatbots work around the clock, responses to customer’s questions are processed faster thus reducing the wait times for customers, leading to an increase in customer satisfaction.
Improved employee morale: By lifting repetitive, high-volume workload off employees, RPA allows employees to boost their productivity and focus on more thoughtful and strategic matters.
Better accuracy: RPA robots can be programmed to follow specific workflows and rules, reducing human error, and increasing accuracy.
Differences between RPA and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Unlike deep learning, the software robots used in robotic process automation are programmed to do the tasks in a particular workflow by the employees with some assistance from programmers. The software does not learn on its own or seek to tweak out new efficiencies or new insights like big data analysis. Instead, RPA works like a digital assistant for employees by clearing the onerous, simple tasks that take up a considerable amount of employees’ time.
This does not mean that RPA will not incorporate artificial intelligence and machine learning in the future. While the software robots currently follow strict rules created by the programmers, on the horizon are enhancements that include natural learning abilities through repetition.
In conclusion
Robotic Process Automation or RPA is software and hardware that can be programmed to perform basic, repetitive tasks across multiple applications and systems. It frees up employees from routine tasks allowing them to focus on higher-level and more strategic matters. RPA provides cost savings since it can be deployed using existing applications and is known to increase employee productivity. RPA is used in many industries including Insurance agencies, on and offline retail stores, healthcare, telecommunications, manufacturing, legal and banking, and financial services. The growth in RPA deployments has contributed to higher customer satisfaction due to quicker response times and better accuracy.