This post will give a detailed working of Robotic Process Automation and its implementation.
How does RPA Works?
RPA can perform required tasks, which are usually repetitive and rule-based, much better than humans.
But here the question arises that how RPA works. RPA bots Interacting with the user interface of the computer system to replace the back office exactly.
It works with any existing application and performs structured processes automatically. RPA
Code-free and user-friendly and therefore does not require additional software development
or IT specialists for its working. In simple words, we can say that RPA works by using
demonstrative steps.
RPA Implementation
To implement RPA, a software-based technology, software robot, or virtual assistant
Or bots are created that can perform processes like accounting, finance, management,
data entry etc.
The following approach should include the RPA implementation methodology
followed for a successful RPA implementation:
First, identify the automation opportunities.
Then optimize the identified processes.
Next, build a business case for the RPA journey.
Select an RPA vendor for implementation.
Now, start initial RPA bots’ development.
Lastly, expand our RPA scope and continue building RPA bots.
Example
The following figure shows an example of executing an email read process of reading emails
automatically by RPA:
Tools for RPA
There are many tools available for RPA; however, the following are some most popular
robotic process automation tools:
Blue Prism
It is an RPA software that provides an agile digital workforce to organizations. It can be
downloaded from https://www.blueprism.com/.
Automation Anywhere
Another tool for RPA is Automation Anywhere which can be downloaded
from https://www.automationanywhere.com/
UiPath
It is RPA software. It helps organizations to automate processes efficiently. It can be
downloaded from https://www.uipath.com/
OpenSpan
It is a robotic process automation tool based on the .net framework. It helps to integrate
desktop applications. It is now known as Pega OpenSpan after it was acquired by PEGA.
WorkFusion
It is another robotic process automation tool that provides an AI-powered platform to
automate operations. It can be downloaded from https://www.workfusion.com/
Which Tool to Choose?
As we have seen there are a lot of tools for RPA but the big question is which tool to choose. Following are some of the parameters that should be considered before selecting an RPA tool:
Technology
The most important parameter to check is technology such as Microsoft .NET, IBM Mainframe, Java, etc, in which the tool is built. The tool must be platform-independent So that automation solutions can support any application.
Data
Data is another important parameter. We should choose the tool which is easy to read And write business data across multiple systems.
Interface
The user interface of RPA should be user friendly as the complex user interface will be delayed
implementation process.
Interoperability
As discussed, Toll should be platform-independent and work across multiple applications.
Another important parameter is how easily and effectively the robot can be managed. NS
Equipment must have a high degree of control and visibility.
Type of tasks
The type of task, whether rule-based or knowledge-based, that can be configured by the RPA tool, is another important parameter that should be taken into account while selecting the tool.
Security
Security is one more important parameter to consider. RPA as we know it is one piece
Software, how much security control can be implemented is a factor that must be considered.
Applications of RPA
Industry |
Usage |
Banking |
· Customer support · Loan processing · Fraud claims · Card’s activation |
Human
Resource (HR) |
· Joining formalities · Payroll process · Shortlisting of
candidates |
Healthcare |
· Patient registration · Billing · Report generation |
Insurance |
· Premium calculation · Processing claims · Clearance of claims · Responding partner
queries |
Utility |
· Customer service · Debt recovery · Billing |
Legal |
· Converting documents
digitally ·
Customer support |
Business
process outsourcing |
· ERP automation · Invoice processing · Automation of logistic
data |
Government |
· License renewal · Change of address |
Infrastructure |
· Account setup · Customer support · Application processing |