Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is increasingly embraced by industries as a pivotal tool for boosting productivity and fostering innovation by automating routine tasks. This shift is enabling employees to concentrate on more creative and complex work, laying the groundwork for future technological advancements.
An increasing number of industries are turning to automation to streamline their processes and improve productivity, as part of what is being called the fourth industrial revolution, or Industry 4.0. One emergent type of automation known as Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has many advantages over traditional workflows, not only for process and cost efficiency, but also for creating more space for innovation.
RPA is the use of software to automate repetitive and rule-based tasks using cross-application programs, also called “bots.” The effects of RPA adoption are more evident in some industries and regions than others. For example, the Asia-Pacific (APAC) automotive industry, an early adopter of RPA, has established a competitive advantage, offering a key example of the benefits of automation for the rest of the world.
Automotive industry's adoption of RPA
The automotive industry has been among the fastest to implement and reap the benefits of RPA. According to Giedrius Gustas, Data Lead at Reiz Tech, automakers tend to be ahead of the curve when it comes to implementing new technologies, setting a standard that other industries follow.
“The auto industry tends to drive technological innovation across industries. A good example is the successful application of Internet of Things (IoT), which enables automation and data exchange across a wide range of devices and systems. The auto sector was among the first adopters of IoT technology, which is now widely applied in manufacturing, retail, energy, and even agriculture, where it can be used to optimize crop yields and resource efficiency,” shared Gustas.
The ripple effect of automakers implementation of RPA is no different, as the Asia-Pacific (APAC) automotive industry exemplifies. Gustas notes that the automotive industry is an essential pillar of APAC economies, receiving significant financial and macroeconomic support to maintain its competitive edge in a global market. This edge is increasingly seen, across APAC industries, as predicated on investment and innovation in robotics and automation.
Europe's path to competitive automation
For European industries to keep pace with APAC nations, increased investment in research and development of RPA solutions will be necessary. “The most effective boost would be through competitive market examples, and government as well as investor support in automation,” Gustas says. “Cross-industry collaboration and sharing of best practices can greatly accelerate progress, too.”
An important aspect of RPA implementation is that its benefits resonate beyond increased efficiency. It also helps accelerate innovation, Gustas notes.
“Automating routine and repetitive tasks frees up employees to focus on more complex and creative work. So, in a way, there is a positive correlation between the rate of automation and rate of innovation.”
RPA's role in fostering innovation
European businesses looking to adopt RPA solutions could consider the benefits of, for example, HR recruitment and onboarding automation. Hiring processes can be streamlined by using RPA solutions to prioritize promising applications, schedule interviews, and manage onboarding paperwork. With RPA, this work could be undertaken around the clock, providing applicants with timely updates. This can not only reduce errors and save time, but also reduce the burden on human resources departments, allowing personnel to engage in more strategic HR initiatives.
RPA can also be used to improve the efficiency of supply chains, streamline inventory management, shipment tracking, and purchase order processing. Automation in this sector can help businesses mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions and losses associated with overstocking or stockouts.
Embracing RPA for future success
Overall, Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is emerging as a key driver of efficiency and innovation in various industries, with the automotive sector, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, leading the transition. The adoption of RPA is a crucial step for European industries to make in order to remain competitive in the global market, as automating mundane tasks not only boosts productivity, but allows employees time and energy to develop the next groundbreaking innovation.