How Can AI Make RPA to Work Smarter?

The main means through which we can make RPA (Robotic Process Automation) work smarter is through AI (Artificial Intelligence). Indeed, to achieve the best outcomes in automation, enterprises need to seriously consider combining RPA with AI. 

In this article, we will be exploring the exact way in which AI can make RPA work smarter.

Who is AI?

The initials AI stand for Artificial Intelligence. The field of artificial intelligence is mainly concerned with developing computer systems that simulate the cognitive functions of the human mind.

The objective is to end up with computer systems that, for instance, are capable of solving problems on their own, without having to rely on pre programmed logic. This is also how we end up with computer systems that are capable of actually making decisions. 

Traditionally, computer systems have been fed with data, which they then help us to analyze (and convert into actionable ‘information’). But the aspect of making actual decisions from the data has always been left for humans. 

AI changes this paradigm: by developing computer systems that, besides processing data, are actually capable of making proper decisions based on that data.

Who is RPA?

The initials RPA stand for Robotic Process Automation. The field of robotic process automation is mainly concerned with developing software robots (bots) that are capable of performing various tasks properly. 

The ultimate objective in RPA is to get bots to perform low-value tasks, so that humans can focus on the higher-value, more rewarding tasks. But we are also seeing a trend where the bots that are developed in the RPA field are venturing to do more and more sophisticated tasks. 

Therefore, while the objective was initially to develop bots to perform low value tasks, that is changing – as we get bots that have better ability to ‘think’.

How can AI make RPA work smarter?

The main way in which AI can make RPA work smarter is by making it possible to produce bots with higher cognitive capabilities. These, for instance, are bots that are capable of learning on their own. 

The traditional paradigm in RPA was one where instructions for performance of various tasks had to be hard coded into the bots. But AI makes it possible to come up with bots that can learn on their own. That in turn translates into an opportunity for development of bots that can perform a wide array of tasks. 

Remember, the bots in traditional RPA could only perform the tasks they had been coded to perform. But once AI is introduced into the picture, you end up with bots that can perform a wider range of tasks. AI also makes it possible for us to develop bots that are capable of performing ‘creative’ tasks. 

In the final analysis, we see that AI can make RPA work smarter by increasing the number and variety of tasks that are automated. Tasks that were previously viewed as not capable of being automated become fully automatable once AI comes into the picture.

Conclusion

Contact SmartOSC DX for assistance in making RPA to work smarter through AI.