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What is an RPA software robot?

by | Jan 2, 2020

Even those familiar with workflow automation may find themselves asking “what is an RPA bot?”

Science fiction references aside, RPA software “robots” or “bots” aren’t actually physical machines. Regarding robotic process automation, “robot” or “bot” refers to software tools that automate repetitive work normally carried out by people. Once a process has been digitized, an RPA “bot” can then be trained and deployed for automated task completion.

For clarity, the term robotic process automation (RPA) is often used interchangeably with business process automation (BPA). Strictly speaking, RPA refers to automating individual tasks, while BPA technically describes automating entire workflows. With that said, cutting-edge RPA robots are more than capable of accomplishing multi-step activities. 

Among other automation tools, these RPA solutions are empowering businesses to drive productivity and job satisfaction like never before. By removing repetitive tasks from an employee’s day-to-day, they’re able to focus on more rewarding activities. 

Within automation platforms like Capacity, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are enabling RPA tools to automate complex activities. Similarly, these technologies are also allowing them to adapt to workflow and business operation changes without the need for a developer. 

An essential component of the digital workforce, these intelligent automation software programs will soon reach widespread adoption. As RPA implementation becomes easier and easier with solutions like Capacity, the benefits of RPA technology will also have large-scale economic benefits in the United States and abroad.

RPA developers are hard at work on innovative solutions for the RPA market. As most companies don’t require a bespoke system, most of these solutions are available for a nominal monthly fee. In the long-term, SMBs previously unable to afford RPA software will adopt these 21st-century tools, thanks to the cost-savings of the subscription model.

Further Reading

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