Business process automation (BPA) is the process of using technology to automate and speed up manual tasks in an enterprise. It is done to save time and resources while reducing the risk of human error. When implemented correctly, BPA increases overall productivity, performance, and efficiency.
Creating a robust business process automation strategy is the first step to ensuring that repetitive and mundane tasks are automated to free up employee time. It can be applied for a wide variety of tasks, such as:
- High-touch processes that involve several people or touchpoints
- High-volume repetitive tasks that take hours of employee time every day
- Time-sensitive processes dealing with deadlines
- High-impact processes with simple conditions (invoice generation, inventory tracking, etc.)
- Monitoring processes for auditing trails
The intent behind business process automation is to simplify tasks and reduce the pressure on employees. This increases employee satisfaction and allows them to focus on the core aspects of their job. In fact, many core and support functions can be included in the business automation strategy. From customer care to supply chain management, every department can use BPA to enhance its performance.
Steps to Implement Business Process Automation
- Create a Strategy and Outline
Develop a strategy to identify and prioritize the most important processes that can be automated in your enterprise. Outline the expected results (short-term and long-term).
- Take Small Steps
Instead of adopting automation across the entire organization simultaneously, start with individual projects (departments) and take smaller steps. This allows you to correct errors and fine-tune the process without incurring heavy losses.
- Select BPA Tools
Choose the most appropriate BPA tools to integrate with your business systems and ERP/ CRM solutions. Invest in an open-source analytics platform to streamline data analytics and get real-time actionable insights.
- Change Management
Develop a training program and involve employees in decision-making. BPA will lead to changes in the work culture, which should be addressed in parallel. Communicate with your employees and keep them updated about the latest developments.
- Feedback and Monitoring
Get employee and end-user feedback and monitor the new automation to eliminate errors and increase productivity.
Conclusion
Elevondata is a New York-based net-gen global data integration consulting company with proprietary frameworks to provide tailor-made business automation strategy and roadmap for businesses from different industries and markets. The company provides solutions to increase business agility, scalability, and efficiency.
