Robotic Process Implementation (RPA) not only reduces manual labor and processing time but also enhances customer and employee satisfaction. Hence, organizations today are over-enthusiastic to automate their business processes. RPA implementation comes with its own set of challenges. Thus, industries should be cognizant, before they bring in the RPA model. In this blog, let us examine some of the challenges that organizations face while implementing RPA and what are the effective ways to mitigate them.

Ways to Mitigate RPA Challenges

Identify the RPA suitable areas

When it comes to implementation of RPA sometimes companies end up determining the wrong processes for automation. They are unable to choose processes that will give them the highest ROI. Result is they end up spending unnecessarily on process implementation.

The right approach for RPA implementation is to focus on people. The aim of robotic process automation is not to eliminate humans. Rather, it is to free humans from mundane tasks and engage them into more complex and critical jobs. Instead of picking up tasks where robots will function best, it is better to zero down on jobs that have chances of frequent errors and require regular inputs. Such tasks are best suited for RPA models, because robots can work for 24 hours a day, and 365 days a year.

Similarly, companies should identify responsibilities where people use their time to perform non-value tasks such as data entry or invoice processing and bring in RPA solutions. The result is employees can concentrate on judgment based roles, critical thinking, and problem solving.

Drawing a RPA roadmap

Many a times companies end up spending too much of money on RPA implementation and hence, they are reluctant to bring in RPA. However, there are ways to mitigate the unnecessary expenditure. Organizations should invest on realistic roadmaps that include financial projections, implementation strategy, and also scaling over time.

Let us have a better understanding of the RPA roadmap with the help of the below diagram:

The first step towards RPA implementation is to have a strategy and vision that involves estimation of costs. Organizations should know that process automation solutions is not just installing the RPA software, there are a few other aspects as well. It is important to have an operating model whereby there is process integration with IT alongside a robust presence of technology. It is imperative to opt for a pilot run before integrating the RPA model with the business use case. Also upskilling people have a major role to play to make RPA services successful. Finally when an operating model along with a strong business use case coupled with appropriate talent is present; organizations should implement and run the RPA model.

Get Expert Guidance

Sometimes robotic process automation service brings about more expenditure than cost savings. The reason is, primarily, incorrect implementation. Thus, it is best to get it right at the first instance. In order, to accomplish that, organization should hire RPA experts. Initially it might come as a hefty investment but in the long run it saves money and time.

This is because most organizations are legacy bound and find it difficult to adapt to digitization. This is where RPA experts will have a key role to play. They will be able to determine what ratio of human to robots will work best for a particular company and what role the employees will play in managing the software. Experts will also guide you train employees so that they can manage the software once it goes live. In fact, RPA experts help bridge the gap with IT team of the company. The end result is properly integrated RPA solutions into the already existing network, faster ROI, and lesser hassles in transition.

Periodic Upkeep Recommended

RPA services are not something that can be set once and then forgotten. It needs constant attention. Sometimes, organizations implement RPA and then forget about it and slowly stop receiving ROI. To combat such situations organizations should assign employees who will make adjustments to RPA systems over time and ensure that the system is running without glitch. The changes might be really small but its reflection in the system is mandatory to ensure smooth running. Even a small mismanagement can throw off the whole balance. Hence, it is imperative for organizations to manage, and analyze the output data and ensure RPA systems are functioning properly.

To conclude, Robotic Process Implementation can be highly beneficial for repetitive and mundane tasks but unless a proper roadmap, and support system is present RPA services can be more detrimental than advantageous.

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