UiPathRobotic Process Automation - Working

This chapter will give a detailed view of working of Robotic Process Automation and its implementation.

How RPA Works?

RPA can execute necessary tasks, which are generally repetitive and rule-based, much better than humans. But here the question that how RPA works will arise. RPA bots transform back office by interacting with the user interface of a computer system just like humans.

It works with any existing application and carries structured processes automatically. RPA is code free and user friendly and hence does not require additional software development or IT specialists for its working. In simple words, we can say that RPA works using demonstrative steps.

RPA Implementation

For implementing RPA, a software-based technique, software robots or virtual assistants or bots are created that can perform the processes like accounting, finance, management, data entry etc.

The following approach which consists of RPA implementation methodology, should be followed for a successful RPA implementation −

• First, identify the automation opportunities.
• Then optimize the identified processes.
• Next, build a business case for RPA journey.
• Select a RPA vendor for implementation.
• Now, start initial RPA bots' development.
• Lastly, expand our RPA scope and continue building RPA bots.

Example

The following diagram shows an example executing the process of reading emails automatically by RPA −

Tools for RPA

There are various tools available for RPA; however, following are some most popular robotic process automation tools −

Blue Prism

It is a RPA software that provides an agile digital workforce to the organizations. It can be downloaded from https://www.blueprism.com/.

Automation Anywhere

Another important tool for RPA is Automation Anywhere which can be downloaded from  https://www.automationanywhere.com/

UiPath

It is a RPA software. It helps organizations to automate processes efficiently. It can be downloaded from https://www.uipath.com/

OpenSpan

It is arobotic process automation tool based on .net framework. It helps to integrate desktop applications. After acquired by PEGA it is now known as Pega OpenSpan.

WorkFusion

It is another robotic process automation tool which provides AI-powered platform to automate operations. It can be downloaded from https://www.workfusion.com/

Which Tool to Choose?

As we have seen there are lots of tools for RPA but the big question is that which tool to choose. Followings are some parameters which must be considered before selecting RPA tool −

Technology

The most important parameter to check is the technology say Microsoft .NET, IBM Mainframe, Java etc., in which the tool is built. The tool has to be platform independent so that the automation solutions support any application.

Data

Data is another important parameter. We must choose the tool that makes easy to read and write business data into multiple systems.

Interface

RPA's user interface must be user friendly because a complex user interface will delay the process of implementation.

Interoperability

As discussed, toll must be platform independent and work across multiple applications.

Ease of management

Another important parameter is how easily and effectively robots can be managed. The tool must have high level of control and visibility.

Type of tasks

The type of tasks, whether rule-based or knowledge-based, that can be configured by RPA tool is another important parameter to be taken care while selecting the tool.

Security

Security is one more important parameter to consider. As we know that RPA is a piece of software, how much security controls can be implemented is a factor to be considered.

Applications of RPA

If the industry is using computer for repetitive and boring jobs like data entry, loan processing etc., then it can use RPA. Followings are some of the applications of RPA in various industries −