Robotic Process Automation

What is Robotic Process Automation? 

Robotic Process Automation is a technology that uses bots to automate repetitive and rule-based tasks within business processes. 

These tasks are typically mundane, time-consuming, and prone to human error. RPA aims to streamline and optimize workflows by automating these tasks, allowing human employees to focus on more strategic and value-added activities.

How Robotic Process Automation Works? 

RPA uses bots to replicate human actions. Software robots automate processes, handle data, make decisions, and enhance operational efficiency.

The core operational steps of Robotic Process Automation can be described as follows:

• Bot Initiation: Software bots are created to simulate human actions in digital interfaces.
• Workflow Definition: Specific actions are scripted for bots to execute in a structured sequence.
• UI Interaction: Bots interact with software interfaces via APIs or GUI commands.
• Data Handling: These bots extract, process, and manipulate data from diverse sources.
• Decision Logic: Then the bots follow preset rules to make context-based decisions.
• Error Management: Bots detect and address errors or report them for human intervention.
• Orchestration: Complex processes are coordinated and scheduled for efficient execution.
• Security Measures: Access controls, encryption, and secure connections protect data.
• Integration: APIs and connectors enable seamless communication with other systems.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Performance metrics and errors are tracked for optimization.

Where to implement Robotic Process Automation? 

Here are common Robotic Process Automation (RPA) use cases:

1. Data Entry and Validation: Bots automate data input, validate accuracy, and make corrections.
2. Invoice Processing: Robotic Process Automation extracts invoice details, validates, and initiates payments.
3. Order Processing: Bots can handle orders, verify stock, update inventory, and create shipments.
4. Data Migration: RPA transfers data, ensuring accuracy during system migrations.
5. Report Generation: Bots can assist in data consolidation, create automated reports, and dashboards.
6. Customer Onboarding: RPA automates info collection, document verification, and account setup.
7. HR and Payroll: Bots assist in onboarding, payroll, leave requests, and time tracking.
8. IT Operations: RPA manages user tasks, password resets, and system monitoring.
9. Customer Support: Bots aid in responses, guide troubleshooting, and escalate issues.
10. Financial Reconciliation: Bots compare transactions to find discrepancies.
11. Email Processing: RPA reads, processes emails, extracts data, triggers actions.
12. Inventory Management: Bots monitor stock, order restocks, and update records.

Besides Robotic Process Automation is used widely for making data pipelines more efficient. Data cleansing and extraction are two important stages where bots are widely used to remove duplicates, correct inconsistencies, and ensure data quality.