Business process automation is a powerful tool that makes it possible for businesses to streamline the growth of their business through reduced overhead and increased customer satisfaction, which is why it’s no surprise that more businesses are looking to automate more of their operations.
While new technologies, like automation solutions, can create faster and efficient business processes, it is essential that they are used effectively. In this two-part post we will look at six mistakes to avoid when automating your business process.
Rushing into automation
If your decision to automate is based on the fear of missing out your chances of seeing any benefits are low. Your decision to automate should be based on a well thought out strategy that looks at your current operations, the potential value to your business and the key indicators for success.
Not including your team
Failing to adequately prepare and train your team could be detrimental to the automation process. Do your research, find out what the common barriers and fears to implementation are then sit down with your teams to discuss the process as well as listen to their concerns and needs. For any new venture to be successful within an organisation you need the buy-in of your team and this is no different for automation.
Failing to understand KPIs
In order for implementation to be successful you need to define and have a clear understanding of the parameters for that success. The important thing is to identify what would constitute an indicator of success for your business before you invest in automation. A clear understanding of what works and what doesn’t will set you on a course of continuous improvement. When developing your KPI’s it’s important to consider short and long term goals as well as return on investment.
Automating in silos
In order for automation to be successful it cannot take place in a silo. There are several functions that need to work together across an organisation for business process automation to be successful. A silo approach to automation can hamper the overall growth of an organisation.
Automating everything at once
It may seem like a really great idea to automate as many of your operations as possible to get the maximum benefit but this can be disastrous. Its best to ease into automation slowly. Start by automating your smallest easiest process, or the process that takes up the most time.
Using the wrong tools
Selecting the right automation solution for your business is essential. Look at partnering with an automation service provider who offers you value for money and is dedicated to understanding your business needs. An important aspect to consider when choosing a solution is how easily, and equally importantly at what cost, integration can be achieved with other tools.
Business process automation is quickly becoming a highly strategic enabler of business control, agility and productivity. Taking this into consideration, along with the fact that the whole world is moving to mobile and web applications, the deciding factor comes down to cost.
