We are in a gilded age of tech buzzwords.
From afar, these buzzwords can appear artificial and abstract, like a B-grade sci-fi screenplay. Up close, and on the plus side, those abstractions are turning into real, on-the-ground game-changers for many businesses. It’s a good time to pay attention.
Intelligent Automation, a relatively newer ‘buzzword’, is gaining significant traction. It’s an excellent technology to pick apart and understand since it puts its component technologies, Artificial Intelligence and Automation, into context.
It’s also a very promising technology to consider implementing in your organization.
This blog post aims to demystify intelligent automation by answering common questions, clarifying the difference between AI and intelligent automation, and shedding light on critical aspects you should consider before implementing.
Understanding Intelligent Automation
Intelligent automation refers to the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies with automation tools to perform complex tasks previously done by humans.
It combines machine learning, natural language processing, and robotic process automation to automate repetitive and rule-based processes while leveraging AI capabilities for decision-making.
An easy way to remember it is with a simple equation:
IA = Automation + AI
Difference Between AI and Intelligent Automation
One common misconception is the confusion between AI and intelligent automation.
While both utilize AI technologies (obviously, in the case of AI), they differ in scope and functionality. AI focuses on mimicking human intelligence and encompasses various technologies like machine learning and deep learning. On the other hand, intelligent automation combines AI with traditional automation techniques, enabling you to automate tasks, streamline workflows, and make data-driven decisions.
Debunking Misconceptions Associated with Intelligent Automation
Job Elimination
Contrary to popular belief, intelligent automation doesn’t necessarily replace humans. Instead, it frees up employees from mundane and repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on more strategic and value-added activities. It enhances productivity and empowers employees to contribute to higher-level decision-making. This is a win for the employees.
One-Size-Fits-All Solution
Intelligent Automation shines when tailored to meet specific business needs, so it’s a good idea to identify areas in your organization where automation can make the most significant impact before jumping in. Intelligent Automation will fit with your organization better and maximize benefits.
IA Lacks Flexibility
The contrary is true. Modern intelligent automation platforms provide the flexibility to adapt and scale as your business needs evolve. They can handle a wide range of processes across multiple departments. And the technology has evolved, enabling you to automate tasks beyond just the pure repetitive variety.
How Intelligent Automation Works
Intelligent automation follows a systematic approach:
Process Identification
Organizations identify processes suitable for automation by analyzing their complexity, volume, and frequency. Rule-based processes with precise inputs and outputs are good candidates for automation.
Process Mapping
The identified processes are documented, including all necessary steps, rules, and decision points. This mapping ensures a clear understanding of the process flow and helps identify areas for optimization.
Automation Design
Automation tools are configured to mimic human actions and decisions. This involves creating workflows, integrating AI technologies for decision-making, and defining triggers for automation initiation.
Implementation and Testing
The automation solution is deployed, and rigorous testing is conducted to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and compatibility with existing systems. Feedback from end-users and stakeholders is incorporated to refine the process further.
With the proper implementation and strategic approach, organizations can unlock significant efficiencies, improve accuracy, and drive growth in today’s competitive landscape.
Benefits of Intelligent Automation
Implementing intelligent automation offers numerous benefits, including:
Increased Efficiency
Organizations can significantly reduce errors and processing time by automating repetitive tasks, leading to enhanced operational efficiency.
Cost Savings
Intelligent automation reduces the need for manual intervention, resulting in cost savings by optimizing resource allocation and reducing human error-related expenses.
Enhanced Accuracy
Automation eliminates human errors and inconsistencies, ensuring high-quality outputs and improving customer satisfaction.
Improved Compliance
By automating compliance-related processes, organizations can ensure regulatory adherence and minimize non-compliance risk.
Real-World Examples
These are just a few examples. IA is finding its way into more business contexts as organizations find more of them to exploit.
Customer Service
Intelligent automation can automate customer query handling, providing quick and accurate responses through chatbots or virtual agents, thus enhancing customer experience.
Finance and Accounting
Organizations can automate invoice processing, accounts payable, and receivable tasks, reducing manual effort and streamlining financial operations.
Supply Chain Management
Intelligent automation can streamline supply chain processes by automating order processing, inventory management, and demand forecasting, leading to cost savings and increased efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Intelligent automation is a powerful tool that combines AI technologies with automation to transform business processes. With the proper implementation and strategic approach, organizations can unlock significant efficiencies, improve accuracy, and drive growth in today’s competitive landscape.
CM First Group Can Help
Our deep experience with legacy enterprise systems puts us in a unique position to help companies reinvent their modernization efforts with Intelligent Automation. We have the knowledge and real-world experience needed to implement emerging IA technology effectively and help you target and achieve the highest ROI possible.
Please get in touch with us for more information or to schedule a demo. You can also call us at 888-866-6179 or email us at info@cmfirstgroup.com.
