In today’s dynamic business world, technology plays a crucial role in streamlining processes through automation. A few decades ago, automation was simpler to understand and implement. Now, things are much more complex. With the rise of advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), there has been rapid progress in business automation. This evolving technological landscape leaves many of us wondering, “What is automation exactly?” In this article, I’ll examine what business automation is today and its benefits. Additionally, I will introduce you to the different types of automation, including the use of AI and other emerging business automation trends.

“You’re either the one that creates the automation or you’re getting automated.”

Tom Preston-Werner

1. Definition Of What Is Automation For Businesses.

 Automation is the use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. In particular, businesses need automation to increase efficiency, reduce errors, and manage repetitive tasks without taking up valuable time and resources. By automating processes, companies can focus on strategic decision-making and innovation while cutting operational costs.

a. It’s an Operational Process that Applies Tech to Monitor and Control Production.

To define, below is a definition for business automation from the International Society Of Automation (ISA).

“the creation and application of technology to monitor and control the production and delivery of products and services.”

ISA

So, automation supports businesses’ operational processes. Hence, automation is more than just technology. It is the “… application of technology to monitor and control the production and delivery …”. In other words, it is an active operational process powered by technology.

b. Information Technology Is the Primary Enabler of Automation.

Also, information technology is the primary enabler of automation. At the same time, information technology can leverage a wide range of technologies as part of automating a business process. For instance, business automation can include the use of robotics, AI systems, telemetry and communications, electro-optics, process measurement and control, sensors, wireless applications, systems integration, test measurement, and much more.

c. Automation Transforms the Nature of Work.

Lastly, if implemented correctly, automation transforms the nature of work within the business. For instance, automation can assist humans in conducting their tasks, or augment human workers, or making jobs obsolete. Over the years, automation has phased out many jobs such as telephone switch operators. At the same time businesses have replaced these jobs with new job types such as software programmers, cell phone sales persons, and so on. Moreover, automation just doesn’t replace human tasks and processes. Ideally, it enables businesses to redesign and streamline their operational processes to improve their overall products and services. In other words, automation does not just “…pave over cow paths …”; it is best used to transform business processes to achieve better results.

“It is time to stop paving the cow paths … use the power of modern information technology to radically redesign our business processes in order to achieve dramatic improvements in their performance.”

Michael Hammer

2. How Businesses Benefit From Automation.

There are numerous benefits that automation brings to businesses. Moreover, as automation leverages new technologies and methodologies, the more benefits there are for businesses. Below are the five major automation business benefits.

• Cost Reduction. By automating repetitive tasks, businesses can reduce labor costs and minimize errors. Hence, this leads to significant cost savings.
• Increased Productivity. Automation can help businesses streamline processes and increase efficiency. Thus, this allows employees to focus on higher-value tasks and ultimately boost productivity.
• High Availability. Automated systems can operate 24/7 without interruption. Consequently, this ensures that critical business functions are always available.
• Increased Reliability. Automation can reduce the risk of human error and ensure consistent results. Hence, this leads to increased reliability and quality of output.
• Optimized Performance. By analyzing data and having the ability to make rapid adjustments, automated systems can optimize performance and improve overall business outcomes.

For more examples and details on the benefits of automation, see Fortra’ 5 Benefits of Automation: The Advantages of Automation.

3. Business Automation AI Remake: To Empower Processes And Operate Autonomously.

We have traditionally utilized business automation to enhance productivity and eliminate repetitive and mundane tasks. Moreover, most business automation in the past followed pre-defined rules and did not work well in dynamic environments. However, with the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI), there is automation that can work under uncertainty and rapidly changing situations. For instance, new information technology capabilities include digital assistants, smart robotics, and even autonomous AI agents. For more information on how business automation has progressed where there are now many types of automation, see my article, Business Automation AI Remake: First Just Tech To Empower Processes And Now Operates Autonomously.

Business Automation AI Remake: First Just Tech To Empower Processes And Now Operates Autonomously

Need help with an innovative supply chain solution that leverages emerging information technologies? I’m Randy McClure, and I’ve spent many years helping logistics organizations to make the most of new information technologies. As a supply chain tech advisor, I’ve implemented hundreds of successful projects across all transportation modes, working with the data of thousands of shippers, carriers, and 3rd party logistics (3PL) providers. I specialize in new strategies, proof-of-concepts and operational pilot projects using emerging technologies and methodologies. If you’re ready to supercharge your supply chain or if you are a solution provider, let’s talk. To reach me, click here to access my contact form or you can find me on LinkedIn.

For more information from Supply Chain Tech Insights, see articles on Intelligent Technology and Information Technology.