Intelligent process automation
What is intelligent process automation?
Intelligent process automation combines robotic process automation (RPA) — which automates rule-based, repeatable tasks — and advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, such as machine learning (ML), natural language processing (NLP) and computer vision (CV), to automate complex tasks and processes that require cognitive abilities.
Intelligent process automation operates in an unstructured environment by analyzing large amounts of data, learning from patterns and trends, making decisions and taking actions based on its analysis. For example, it can be used to:
- Automatically respond to customer service inquiries and support tickets
- Automate accounts payable and receivable processes
- Streamline human resource processes such as recruitment, onboarding and performance management
- Automate supply chain processes such as inventory management and order processing
- Extract data from various sources such as forms, emails or invoices to automatically populate databases or spreadsheets
Benefits of intelligent process automation
The implementation of intelligent process automation offers businesses several benefits, including::
- Increased efficiency: Employees are able to focus on higher-value activities while repetitive and time-consuming tasks are automated. This creates a streamlined system which leads to improved productivity and faster processing times.
- Enhanced accuracy: Automation reduces the likelihood of error, especially in tasks that involve large amounts of data.
- Improved decision-making: Brands can make more informed, data-driven decisions by leveraging real-time insights from automated processes.
- Cost savings: The greater accuracy and efficiency enabled through intelligent process automation can contribute to significant cost savings.
- Better customer experience: Intelligent process automation can provide personalized and timely responses to customer inquiries through AI-powered tools such as chatbots and virtual assistants.
- Flexibility: Intelligent process automation systems can adapt to a businesses changing needs and requirements. Since these systems are capable of learning, they can quickly adjust to changes in data patterns or customer behavior.
