Why Robotic Process Automation (RPA)?

In the digital world of work, some topics have become big in recent years that are now indispensable. RPA - Robotic Process Automation - is one of these topics and the management of even medium-sized companies can no longer avoid the question: "Why and for what RPA?" This article aims to shed light on the key reasons why companies around the world are increasingly turning to RPA, using RPA to optimise their business processes, reduce their costs and increase the efficiency of their business operations. From automating repetitive tasks to improving the customer experience, there is much to discover about how RPA will shape the future of the modern enterprise.

RPA brings movement into processes and saves more than time and money

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has long since entered the modern business world. It changes processes and brings benefits that go beyond time and cost savings. Here are some of the key benefits:

Knowledge transfer: The seamless transfer of knowledge from skilled workers, many of whom have worked in companies for decades and are retiring, is the challenge for German companies in the coming years. According to the Federal Statistical Office, the German economy will have to cope with a gap of over 5 million workers as early as 2030 . Through the upstream RPA process model phase of process recording and optimisation, process efficiency is once again increased through automation and currently provides the most promising solution to counter the shortage of skilled workers in the long term. This means that the knowledge of how to perform various tasks does not depend on individuals, but is anchored in the RPA software itself.

Increased efficiency: RPA automates repetitive, rule-based tasks that are normally performed manually by employees. This allows processes to be completed faster and more efficiently, as RPA robots can complete tasks around the clock without fatigue.

Cost savings: By automating tasks that are normally performed by humans, companies can reduce costs, as a software robot can, for example, work five times as long at any given time. Employees can also be relieved of time-consuming tasks and focus on more demanding activities that add more value to the company.

Error reduction: Human errors can occur in manual processes. RPA robots perform tasks with high precision, minimising sources of human error. This leads to improved data quality and a lower probability of errors or delays in processes.

Scalability: RPA enables companies to scale processes quickly and flexibly. When additional workloads arise, RPA robots can be easily added to absorb the peak loads. This allows companies to adapt to changing requirements and ensure growth within hours.

Time saving: By automating tasks, companies can save time and shorten process turnaround times. This can help improve customer service, enable faster response times and gain competitive advantage.

Compliance and accuracy: RPA can help improve compliance with policies, regulations and standards. RPA robots perform tasks according to predefined rules and standards, resulting in higher accuracy and consistency in process execution.

Improved employee satisfaction: By automating monotonous and repetitive tasks, employees can focus on more challenging and creative tasks. This increases employee satisfaction as they can make better use of their skills and focus on creative and value-adding activities.

Integration with existing systems: RPA can be seamlessly integrated into existing IT infrastructures and systems without extensive system integration or expensive software changes through, for example, individual developments to the existing applications. This enables a quick implementation and a manageable effort that does not become a problem even with future updates of the software used

The noventum process model: the six phases of process automation

It is important to note that the concrete benefits and advantages of RPA depend on the specific application and objectives of the customer. It is advisable to conduct a thorough analysis and evaluation to determine the individual benefits for the company and to optimally exploit the advantages of RPA. The noventum RPA consultants have developed a detailed procedure model for the analysis, conception and implementation of RPA projects.

Tasks of the customer

The successful application of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) requires close cooperation between the customer and the implementation partner. The customer plays a crucial role in the introduction and implementation of RPA in their company. In this context, certain tasks and responsibilities have to be fulfilled to ensure that the software assistant achieves the desired benefits and advantages. From the identification of suitable processes to the training of employees and the regular monitoring of the RPA robots, there are various tasks that need to be considered. Active involvement of the client will ensure that the RPA implementation runs smoothly and that the intended goals can be achieved.

Here are some examples of tasks:

• Definition of the automation goals and requirements
• Identification of suitable processes for automation
• Clearly define and describe processes
• Analysis and documentation of the processes to be automated
• Joint optimisation of processes
• Ensure data availability and quality for the RPA application
• Cooperation with the RPA provider and/or implementation partner
• Training and involvement of employees in the RPA and digitisation process
• Monitoring and maintenance of the RPA robots
• Regular evaluation of the success and effectiveness of the RPA application

RPA with noventum

For more than 25 years, noventum consulting has been dedicated to capturing, analysing and advising on business processes in order to ultimately optimise and digitalise them. noventum RPA consultants analyse processes and IT infrastructures, take into account organisational and regulatory requirements of day-to-day business and develop a suitable automation strategy/roadmap for their clients. They use their decades of expertise in coding, scripting and the IT infrastructure, cloud technology and Microsoft 365 to support their customers in their automation project.