Robotic Process Automation: Is It For Me?

In recent years, an increased number of high profile decision-makers in various industries have been turning to Robotic Process Automation (RPA). 

With its ability to take over tedious tasks and allow for the automation of processes so workforces can focus on other tasks, there are tons of benefits to this solution. However, there are also some drawbacks. From potentially ridding people of their jobs to its high maintenance nature, RPA is not right for every business. 

But could it be right for yours?

What Is Robotic Process Automation

First, let’s dive a little deeper into what RPA actually is. 

A corporation can use Robotic Process Automation tools to set up software, record and interpret applications for things like processing transactions, modifying data, triggering replies, and interfacing with other digital systems. 

RPA can be as straightforward as sending an automated email response or as complex as installing hundreds of complex systems to automate operations across a business.

Essentially, RPA is an option for corporations to automate their workplace, shifting the focus of its human employees from mundane tasks to higher-value situations that truly require a person’s touch. While data can be pulled and interpreted by a machine, RPA might not be the best solution for a board meeting with potential clients. 

What Are The Benefits Of RPA? 

There are tons of advantages to RPA, but the main ones are time, accuracy and cost.

RPA allows companies to redistribute their workforce’s time. When a machine can take over daily tasks, employees can focus on more intelligent and strategic decision-making by removing repetitive, high-volume activity. Employee satisfaction can also be improved due to this shift towards RPA.

Increased accuracy is another benefit of RPA. Since Robotic Process Automation can be programmed to follow precise workflows and regulations, you can eliminate human error, especially in areas where precision and compliance are required. RPA can also make it easier to track progress and fix problems faster.

When it comes to cost, complex systems are often affordable and relatively simple to set up. Such features are critical as businesses seek to expand without incurring high costs or causing friction among employees.

What Are The Drawbacks Of RPA? 

As with almost anything, where there are pros, there are cons. 

In most cases, RPA will streamline business processes. However, if your automations aren’t defined appropriately, you'll end up with a disconnected system that works against you, rather than for you. This could be because you have automated the incorrect process, which is hindering your business rather than assisting it. Therefore, identifying exactly what has to be done, and how it holistically fits into your business is absolutely critical.

Robotic Process Automation isn't suitable for every company. Like any other automation technology, RPA has the potential to eliminate job prospects, posing a problem for decision-makers in terms of personnel management. 

While RPA-enabled businesses are seeking to move many individuals to other roles, Forrester Research forecasts that RPA software will endanger the careers of 230 million or more knowledge workers - that is around 9% of the global workforce.

Although Robotic Process Automation will eliminate the need for some employment positions, it will also spur the creation of new ones to handle more complicated tasks, allowing workers to focus on higher-level planning and problem-solving. 

As responsibilities within job positions alter, organisations will need to foster a culture of learning and innovation. The capacity of a workforce to adapt will be critical to the success of automation and digital transformation programs. Companies who are moving towards RPA should always prepare for continual adjustments in priorities by educating employees and investing in training programs. 

So, is Robotic Process Automation right for you?

Now that we have looked at what Robotic Process Automation is, the benefits and the drawbacks, you can begin to assess whether it is right for you. 

If you are considering RPA, you may want to consider other elements such as the size of your company, your budget, how you would be utilising RPA and what this could mean for your existing workforce. Our friendly team is always on hand should you need help figuring out if RPA is right for you, so please feel free to contact us.