Robot Process Automation Awareness Flashcards
What is RPA?
The process of automating computer-centric processes using software robots. Free humans from repetitive tasks by replacing them with a virtual workforce allowing them to provide oversight. Targets highly manual. repetitive and rule based electronic tasks.
Why is RPA being used?
Easy to configure; no developer skills required.
Non-invasive in that it doesn’t disturb other software.
What are attended robots?
Assist human operators when triggered.
Still used for ‘swivel chair’ tasks.
Require input from operator for changing variables.
Relieve humans of some burden.
What are unattended robots?
Operate without supervision in virtual environments according to human instructions.
No limit to the number of robots that can be used.
What are the key drivers for using RPA?
Cost pressure (reduces staff and therefore costs).
Customer expectations (can reduce processing time).
Growth (instead of adding to head count complete tasks without increasing costs).
New Tech (RPA can influence the ways markets work).
Outsourcing.
Compliance/regulation (regs can drive companies to improve services through RPA).
What are the benefits of RPA?
Rapid ROI (compared to other tech solutions RPA provides solutions quicker).
Enhanced processes (human error).
Better customer experience (reduces processing time).
Eliminate repetitive work.
Enhanced ability to manage (objective rules set).
Cost reduction.
Non-invasive.
Flexible.
What processes should be automated?
Highly manual and repetitive processes (best will have: clear instructions, standardised rules, low exception rates).
Processes with standard readable electronic inputs.
Typically used for high volume and frequency transactions.
What processes are companies recommended to automate?
HR services (large amounts of repetitive tasks). FInance and accounting (can be extremely cost effective). Supply chain (issues typically cost companies yet can be easily automated). IT services (currently 30% of time is spent on low level IT processes).
What are the current issues in HR?
Many different systems needed when new employees added. These typically have standardised rules.
In large companies RPA could save thousands of hours.
Explain o2 RPA and its outcomes:
o2 deployed 160 robots processing 400000-500000 transactions per month.
This reduced some process turnaround time from days to minutes.
Customer ‘chase-ups’ reduced 80% per year.
ROI of 650-800% over 3 years.
How can companies acquire RPA?
Tool focused (purchases a license and implement with optional tech support). Assisted implementation (consult a 3rd party for seamless implementation). RPA service (service provider responsible for entire transition).
What is a center of excellence?
A location where all units report too.
Can be centralised, hybrid or federated.
What is needed to make implementation successful?
Cultural adoption (employees committed to making RPA work with a strong support team). IT engagement (Early IT engagement will ensure strong functionality). Inhouse capability (methods to deal with RPA in house).
What might inhibit implementation?
Service delivery (poor delivery means increased resistance to further implementation/current project). Most companies operate repetitive procedures in a non-standardised manner which can make it hard to automate. Culture (resistance to change common among employees especially when they fear their job will be taken by robots). Lack of buy-in (no clear support form stakeholders may make it difficult to implement company wide)
