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What is Robotic Process Automation (RPA)?
RPA is a type of automation that can mimic the way a human interacts with a computer.
You can record the steps you normally take to complete a work process once and then have a virtual worker follow those same steps and manage that process for you. It's a great low-risk, high-reward form of workplace automation to start with, for a quick ROI.
Interested in finding out more about RPA or have questions? We're here to help.
The benefits of Robotic Process Automation
Increase productivity
You can retain the same number of staff with their usual working hours ... but get more done.
Boost profits
Shorter service delivery times mean bigger profit margins.
Transform customer experience
Impress your customers with faster delivery services.
Raise morale
Automate tasks that workers don’t enjoy and free them to focus on the ones they do.
Flawless output
Work fast and get things done quickly, without compromising accuracy.
Integrate people and processes
Review how your organisation approaches tasks, then remove silos and improve efficiency.
Completely auditable
Fully audit and track workflows.
Why use RPA?
We think RPA could do a lot for you and your organisation, but you’re probably still thinking: How does it all work?
Let's get to the nitty gritty
Robotic Process Automation is designed to manage problem-based tasks that follow logical steps (workflows). Once a workflow is broken down into a step-by-step process, RPA can then complete it by following those steps like a blueprint.
How? Well, most workflows look like this...
They start with a problem
"I need to know X so I can do Y"
... which causes a trigger
"To find X, I need to do [task]"
... which leads to an action
"I am doing [the task]"
... and hopefully an outcome
"[The task] is finished, I have the info I need to work"
Robotic Process Automation can respond to a trigger with a predefined action, the same way a person can. A trigger can be anything from a specific time to an event. Let’s have a look at a few straightforward examples:
- Trigger - An email received with an attachment
Action - The attachment is automatically saved into a folder for quick access later on - Trigger - The clock hits 9 a.m.
Action - Users receive a summary of their upcoming calendar items - Trigger - A user presses a button
Action - Customer information is gathered from relevant systems and saved to a spreadsheet on the user's desktop
These are pretty simple examples, but Robotic Process Automation is capable of completing very complex workflows – and providing more value across an organisation.
Areas where Robotic Process Automation can be used
HR
Automate lengthy, manual staff onboarding and exit processes.
Save time by automating annual leave management processes.
Finance
Automatically generate and reconcile cashbook journals with the bank.
Automate invoice processing by combining RPA with Optical Character Recognition.
IT
Automate your password reset process for faster response times.
Easily manage networks with auto performance updates.
Customer service
Simplify brand management with social mention notifications.
Save time answering FAQs and get more time for complicated requests.
Individuals
Manage time like a boss with a virtual PA to help manage appointments
Win back time by automating your most time-consuming tasks.
How can you get started?
So there are two main areas of an organisation where RPA can be used: the front-end (customer facing) and the back-end (operational). If you're not sure where to focus, our best advice is to think about where your organisation is currently stretched.
Front-end RPA
Front-end RPA enhances your customer-facing operations, and typically achieves this in one of two ways: 1. By making customer service more efficient; 2. By creating an outstanding customer experience at digital touchpoints.
See how it worksBack-end RPA
Back-end RPA helps your operational departments, like finance, HR and IT, to win back time for strategic thinking. This is typically achieved in one of two ways: 1. By cutting time spent on lengthy, repetitive tasks; 2. By capturing smart data for strategic decision-making.
See how it worksGet help with free Automation Strategy Guides
More of a do-it-yourself type? Read our free Guides to help you get started.
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Cost savings, workplace efficiency and better outcomes for service users - achieve all three with an effective automation strategy.
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Robotic Process Automation - Technology Explained
Guides are good but nothing beats a conversation with a friendly expert! Book a free RPA 101 Workshop for 30 mins of 1-2-1 time with an Automation Expert to ask them anything. You'll also get a guided demo of RPA in action and tips for fast ROI.
Once the workshop finishes, it's your choice. We'll help you with the next steps, or you can start the work yourself. Either way, you'll have everything you need to start automating. No hard selling, promise! So simply call the number below or complete this form to get in touch.