Confused by terms like DPA, UX design, RPA, and low-code? Technologies and platforms for process automation are frequently discussed in the context of digital transformation. This guide aims to simplify these key concepts, making it easier for non-IT professionals to grasp how process automation can revolutionize business operations.
Added Agility with Low-Code
A digital process automation (DPA) platform extends the functionality of traditional business process management (BPM) suites. Think of it as a toolbox that provides all the necessary technologies to automate business processes end-to-end. It facilitates the digitization of a company, streamlining workflows to enhance overall efficiency.
The Role of the Platform in Automation
When a person reaches for an object, the action of the fingers enclosing the object is instinctive and unconscious. Similarly, in automation, a process automation platform can independently manage tasks and processes without human intervention. For example, it can automatically notify you about upcoming tasks via email and update statuses continuously. This reduces the susceptibility to errors in the process and increases efficiency.
Choosing the Right Platform
Selecting the right process automationplatform involves considering two crucial factors: user experience (UX) design and open platform architecture.
User experience design (UX design) is the adjusting screw for the character and appearance of an automation platform. It encompasses the design of all user interactions. A user-friendly UX design ensures that the platform is intuitive and minimizes the need for extensive training.
Open platform architecture is essential for seamless integration with existing systems. It facilitates easy connections with third-party systems through connectors (interfaces) and allows for the creation of new connectors as needed. This flexibility enables the platform to act as a central hub, where data from various systems converges, simplifying implementation. By avoiding disruptions to the existing software landscape, it ensures efficient integration and enhances overall system cohesion.
“Under the umbrella of the process automation platform, the various methods and technologies can be optimally combined, coordinated, and linked.”
Andreas Balsiger
Head of Product Management, Axon Ivy AG
Key Tools in a Process Automation Platform
A robust process automation platform typically features several essential tools, including robotic process automation (RPA), business rules, and low-code capabilities. These can be made available through the platform and deployed as needed.
RPA utilizes software robots that can perform simple, repetitive tasks that would otherwise require manual input. The technology is used, for example, for data transmission or sending confirmations of receipt. By offloading these routine tasks to RPA, employees can focus on more complex and value-added activities.
Business rule engine are crucial for managing complex processes. They handle, maintain, and execute predefined business rules independently of the core process logic. This centralization enables efficient updates and ensures that specifications are stored in a single location, accessible for new requirements. The automation platform relies on the business rule engine to monitor rule compliance and report any violations in real time.
A platforms with low code support offer a user-friendly alternative to traditional programming. By employing graphical modeling and visual design tools, business users can create and modify applications with minimal coding. This approach reduces dependency on IT departments, allowing IT professionals to concentrate on more complex tasks, strategic projects and innovations.
By leveraging these tools, a process automation platform can significantly enhance operational efficiency, streamline workflows, and improve overall productivity.
Working Towards a Holistic Solution
Under the umbrella of the process automation platform, various methods and technologies – such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA), business rule engines and low code, but also artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), process mining, and analytics – can be optimally combined, coordinated, and integrated.
This approach allows us to address specific individual requirements effectively. The platform creates a comprehensive solution that covers processes from start to finish, ensuring seamless and efficient operations.
The Process Automation Platform: Conclusion
A process automation platform combines advanced technologies to streamline business operations and enhance efficiency. By leveraging tools like RPA, business rule engines, and low-code capabilities, organizations can reduce manual workloads, ensure compliance, and foster innovation. With the right platform, businesses can achieve seamless integration and optimized workflows, positioning themselves for long-term success in the digital age.
