Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is transforming how organizations operate by automating repetitive, rule-based processes. RPA software bots can help improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance quality by taking over manual tasks from human workers.
However, implementing RPA requires careful planning and strategic framework development to maximize value. This guide will provide beginners with an introduction to building a robust RPA framework.
RPA tools perform repetitive tasks by mimicking human actions and interacting with system interfaces similar to how humans would. Bots log into applications, enter data, calculate figures, copy and paste data between systems, extract information from documents, and complete transactions.
RPA software works by combining UI automation with business logic and workflows. The bots execute tasks by following clearly defined rules and processes set by human programmers.
Key benefits of RPA include:
RPA tools perform best in environments with highly repetitive tasks, clear business rules, and electronic interfaces. They excel at automating high-volume back-office processes in HR, IT, finance, and customer service.
A strong RPA framework provides the foundation for a successful automation program. Key elements include:
The first step is identifying automation opportunities by assessing organizational processes against defined criteria. Ideal processes have these characteristics:
Once target processes get identified, they undergo further evaluation based on factors like ROI, ease of implementation, and potential value. The most promising processes get selected for automation.
Processes that pass technical screening proceed to building the automation solution. Those that don't may need other automation approaches.
Thorough solution design sets the direction for building a reliable, scalable RPA program.
Extensive testing occurs throughout bot development to ensure accuracy.
Bots that pass all tests get deployed to production.
Bot deployment rolls out the automation to production systems. A controlled rollout helps identify deployment issues before full implementation.
Post-deployment monitoring oversees bot activity in real time using RPA dashboards. Monitoring helps:
Active monitoring ensures bots operate reliably and deliver the desired ROI.
Like other software programs, RPA solutions need ongoing maintenance and enhancements. Key activities include:
Proactive maintenance and innovation keep automation capabilities in sync with changing business needs.
Organizations need an effective framework and operating model to build, operate, and scale their RPA programs successfully.
Strong RPA governance provides oversight and strategic direction across three areas:
1. Policies:
2. People:
Technology:
An RPA Center of Excellence (CoE) typically oversees governance.
Organizations must weigh factors like capabilities, capacity, and cost to choose the optimal model.
The operating model establishes the ongoing execution of RPA programs across these dimensions:
Roles and responsibilities - Defines automation tasks for business analysts, RPA developers, IT support, project managers, and process owners
Workflow - Specifies handoffs between assessment, development, testing, deployment, monitoring, and maintenance
Tools and systems - Determines software and infrastructure for authoring bots, managing deployment, monitoring operations, and securing data
Support model - Sets up service desk and user support for business users and RPA technical team
Continuous improvement - Implements mechanisms to refine the framework, enhance productivity, and expand automation
Effective change management helps users across the organization embrace RPA:
Organizations can maximize adoption and realize RPA's full benefits with thoughtful change management.
For new RPA adopters, keeping these best practices in mind will help establish a solid automation foundation:
With meticulous planning and preparation, RPA novices can set their programs up for success and significant ROI. This well-architected framework will accommodate scalable growth as skills, resources, and use cases expand.
As this guide outlines, developing a thoughtful framework and operating model lays the groundwork for RPA success. However, building and managing an automation program requires significant expertise and cross-functional collaboration. For many organizations, partnering with an industry leader like Worksoft can accelerate results and maximize ROI.
Worksoft offers the next-generation intelligent automation platform for end-to-end business process discovery, testing, and automation. Our codeless, low-code solution delivers quick time to value along with enterprise-grade scalability, security, and centralized governance.
With Worksoft, organizations can jumpstart their RPA initiatives, achieve rapid automation, and continuously innovate and optimize ongoing operations. To learn more about unlocking the power of true intelligent process automation, contact Worksoft today.
Our automation experts can assess your needs and demonstrate how Worksoft’s enterprise-ready platform can drive your digital transformation forward.
A: Look for high-transaction volumes, repetitive steps, rules-based decisions, manual data transfers, and prone to human error. Also assess ROI, ease of automation, and potential business value.
A: Critical role in getting user buy-in across the organization. Needs tailored communication, training, user involvement in design, recognizing quick wins, soliciting feedback, and redeploying displaced labor.
A: Through metrics like process cost, cycle time, productivity, quality, compliance, customer satisfaction and monitoring bot uptime, throughput, and errors.
A: Technology risks like bot failures, lack of scalability, and unsecured data. Business risks like unclear ROI, ineffective change management, and lack of ongoing support.