Robotic Process Automation technology mimics people interactions with user interfaces of browsers, ERPs, Documents, databases, etc. RPA interacts with different software systems at the GUI (Graphical User Interface) or Presentation Layer, the same level as a “human” user of the system. RPA is a non-intrusive application with no need for integration with other systems and delivers productivity by replacing human effort.
Following are some of the sweet spots for implementing RPA:
Dual data entry scenarios
Data manually entered in one system need not be reentered manually in any other system. RPA replaces such dual human effort. E.g. Claims entry information might need to be made in multiple systems.
Straight-through processing
Inputs arriving from various systems such as web pages, documents, emails, Excel Files must be entered into host system. If the input is clean and the rules are well laid out, data entry can be done by RPA.
Virtual Integration
Standalone, legacy, ERP or workflow systems often don’t talk to each other and integration could cost millions of dollars and IT time. RPA can provide lightweight integration connecting disparate systems at the UI level.
Response to request for data
When data and report requests come from multiple process owners, vendors and customers, employees log into a system to extract the data, format it and send an email to the requester. Since these requests are typically rule based work, RPA lends itself very well to such tasks
Rule-based decision making
RPA can execute decision based tasks provided the rules driving these decisions as well laid out. Competitor Tagging, Claims Entry, Exceptions are all rules driven processes.