Business Process Automation makes the use of technology to execute repetitive tasks and processes in such a way that manual effort can be eliminated entirely. It is done so that the company can achieve cost minimisation, even greater efficiency and the visibly streamlined processes.
Business Process Automation, in no way, should be confused with Business Processes Management. Business Processes Management is a broader discipline that involves the management and analysis of all the organisation-wide complex processes, using different philosophies and methodologies.
Why should you automate your business processes?
Now, why, out of the blue, one day, should your executive decide to make the usual processes of your organisation automated? There are a few compelling reasons that compelled them to move towards technology; let’s have a look at them one by one.
1. Stepping stone to digital transformation
To many organisations, which are not already on the path of digital transformation, it can seem like a very overwhelming task. Taking into consideration the fact the people resist changes they are not comfortable with, the task becomes not just overwhelming, but it tends to demotivate people too.
However, what employees need to realise is that digital transformation serves as a stepping stone to a better culture of continuous change. To make the process more manageable, though, you can start with something that desperately needs to be advanced.
2. Clarity
At the designing stage, automation demands a certain amount of clarity about the processes. If you don’t know what you are automating and which people are going to be affected directly by the transformation, then the methods would never be so accurate.
Further, to provide better clarity to all the employees associated with this transformation, you can use process mapping. It would serve as a training resource too and on the top of it, you can develop insights using this process that can make your decision-making processes a tad bit easier.
3. Streamlined processes
Process automation also brings about some sort of streamlining in your operations. From customizable notifications, clear accountability, valuable insights to faster turnaround times, process automation makes it easier to eliminate activities that are a waste and enhances the tasks that add value to the organisation.
4. Compliance
Another benefit of automated processes is that every detail of the process is recorded and those records are maintained timely. This information can be highly useful at the time of audit to demonstrate compliance with rules and regulations.
What business processes should you automate?
Many business processes would not ever be complete without some human touch, in such a case, it is imperative to identify which one business process you should automate? Some factors start arising in the processes that need automating, let’s have a look at them –
- A high volume of tasks
- Time-sensitive nature
- Multiple people required to execute various tasks
- Significant impact on other processes and systems
- Need for compliance and audit rails
If any business process or activity has all of the above factors listed above, well, then it is time to get it automated.
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