Automation has become much more common in today’s world. Not just in business, but in almost all areas of our lives. It’s in our homes through smart technology, in our smartphones, and in the various platforms we use to connect with each other.
Software developers are using robotic process automation and AI to create custom software and bespoke software for businesses in all sectors.
So, what exactly is Robotic Process Automation (RPA), and how can it be used in your business?
What is RPA?
In simple terms, an RPA is custom software that you can program to carry out specific actions or ‘processes’ automatically. They can be set up to interact with other systems and platforms without the need for human intervention.
An RPA is not the same as AI, as they have no learning components and will not update and adapt. Once an RPA is designed by software developers or in-house, it will continue to repeat the same function in the same way until you stop it or change it.
Can I use RPA in my business?
The answer is almost undoubtedly yes. A software development company can take any repetitive digital task and create an RPA to take over the running of it. The process can be applied in every sector, for companies of all sizes.
You may already have some tasks in mind, or you may need to work with a software consultant to help you identify where RPAs can make a difference in your business.
Do I need to use an RPA?
If you’re looking to automate certain processes to free up employees, become more efficient and streamline your business, then you should absolutely start looking into how to do this through bespoke software RPAs. Free your employees from low skilled, repetitive tasks that don’t inspire them.
What’s more, you’ll also remove human error from your processes and you’ll be able to run them 24/7/365, providing an exceptional ROI.
RPAs are becoming more sophisticated all the time, and a software development company will be able to advise you on where to start making the biggest impact in your business.
Benefits of using an RPA
When implemented correctly, RPAs can have a huge effect on your business. The main benefits include:
How can I set up an RPA?
Before randomly setting up RPAs, you will first need to assess your company's processes to identify where improvements need to be made, and which jobs are repetitive and can be easily done by an RPA. You will also need to look at which software systems you use that might need to be integrated into the process.
The software development company or software consultant you choose is very important. Not only should they know about RPAs but they should also understand how businesses operate and the challenges they face. It is this understanding that allows them to develop the best bespoke software RPAs for your business.
Examples of RPAs
As mentioned earlier, RPAs are becoming commonplace in many sectors. We’ve pulled together some usage cases to show you just how versatile an RPA can be.
Scheduling
Most people expect to be able to schedule appointments online through a booking system of some kind. The days of calling up and simply trying to find space in the diary are pretty much behind us now. Setting up an RPA to handle scheduling goes way beyond a calendar booking function.
For example, if you’re booking an appointment with a health professional or lawyer, then the RPA can be programmed to make the appointment, but also pull all of the relevant client records and information too so that the person in your firm that they are meeting has all the information to hand. Time is saved and you come across as a very professional organisation.
Reminders and follow-ups for the appointment can also be scheduled as part of the process.
Data entry and document management
Keeping documentation up to date is important, but can be time-consuming, especially if you’ve changed or are planning on changing your systems. Transferring everything across could be time-consuming. Many companies don’t even attempt it, preferring instead to try and wade through old filing systems to try and find something they need.
An RPA can ensure that all current and legacy documentation is stored properly.
Financial applications
Companies offering financial products have almost automated the entire process from end to end. For example, if you’re applying for a credit card, an RPA will assess your information, accept or decline your application, order your card and send out any relevant paperwork or communications, all without having to speak to a single person.
This same process can be used for applications of all kinds, from credit cards to jobs.
Onboarding
A well thought out onboarding process, for both employees and clients, is essential but can be time-consuming. Getting all of the necessary paperwork completed, checks done and contracts exchanged, is very important and you don’t want to miss a step.
Setting workflows to make the onboarding process as smooth as possible is time well spent and will make sure that your legal and financial processes are followed without fail.
It has been shown that the better an onboarding experience for a new employee, the more likely they are to stay.
Reporting
Businesses produce a lot of reports. From marketing to finance, they are important for presenting information to stakeholders. Preparing a report can take a lot of leg work, to bring together the information and present it in the most useful format. An RPA can be designed to collate this information for you, cutting down the amount of time it takes to produce them and allowing employees to concentrate on analysis and strategy, rather than chasing data.
Conclusion
Hopefully we’ve given you a good introduction to RPAs and how they can digitally transform your business, no matter what industry you’re in (Fintech, Healthcare, Construction, Travel, etc), we can help you.