Modernizing a workplace is not done through introducing new technology but rather through empowering your workforce with it. The shift to digital transformation requires a lot of workforce oriented changes.
Companies that implement automation but fail to develop an ecosystem of both human and virtual resources will be missing out on efficiency and engagement opportunities.
Robotic Process Automation, or RPA, is an automation tool that emulates repetitive tasks and actions that otherwise would be left to the employee. RPA bots alleviate burnout and allow employees to focus on more important tasks, knowing that the repetitive work is done faster and without errors. Any department can benefit from the automation of monotonous work. HR can use RPA for processes such as service delivery or on-boarding. Administrative functions become much more efficient, leaving your employees with time and capabilities to foster relations and build team engagement. RPA can bring a general shift from a culture of temporary projects to specialized teams working in tandem using their core skills.
Since RPA naturally impacts the division of responsibilities, certain structures and roles should be implemented to make this division clear. After a successful RPA implementation, your employees will no longer be required to perform repetitive duties like operating sales orders, processing invoices or logging and documenting. Human skills will become much more valuable. Creativity, social intelligence and out of the box thinking will be useful for both management and regular employees alike. It is important to find a venue where these skills can be used. A team leader who utilizes RPA functionality will need to have technical skills to manage both the human workforce and the virtual one. It is necessary to develop a long term plan that will lead to a successful talent strategy.
To fully reap the benefits of RPA, you must also consider its impact beyond the processes it handles. The improved quality of data and the significant reduction of errors can empower your workforce to achieve more meaningful results. RPA can increase the value of your workforce by allowing them to further develop their core skills and freeing them from mundane tasks.