As we slowly embrace 2024, Robotic process automation (RPA) will once again become a buzzword which will emerge as a prominent tool to drive better efficiency in business processes of all kinds; right from simplifying operations, cutting down on expenses, to raising customer satisfaction levels. In simple terms, Robotic process automation (RPA) can be defined as the usage of software robots or artificial intelligence (AI) assistants to perform high-volume, repetitive tasks previously performed by humans These RPA bots work tirelessly, simulating human behavior in unstructured IT environments, complete processes, speed, and accuracy Data-driven organizations use RPA to reduce operational costs by automating routine processes, and to improve efficiency and increased quality occurs. But as this technology evolves, corporate executives need to be aware of key trends to maximize return on investment and remain competitive in the coming year.

“Any company that uses labor on a large scale for general knowledge process work, where people are performing high-volume, highly transactional process functions, will boost their capabilities and save money and time with robotic process automation software.” - The Institute for Robotic Process Automation.

Now, let’s delve into how this market is expected to change by 2024 and dive into five important areas of RPA development in India that executives need to comprehend.

Humans and Bots Working in Tandem 

As Robotic Process Automation (RPA) reaches a mature stage in India, the dynamic between human workers and software robots is transitioning from one of substitution to collaboration. Traditionally, RPA operated autonomously, handling basic, rule-based tasks without human involvement. However, advancements in technologies such as artificial intelligence, process mining, and natural language processing have enabled bots to engage interactively with individuals. Many Indian organizations are now embracing a blended approach, where employees and bots collaboratively manage shared workloads. Automation assumes standardized activities, while humans oversee nuanced tasks.

This collaborative model offers mutual benefits. Businesses in India can scale operations beyond human capabilities, allowing employees to focus on strategic work and high-impact activities. Automation enhances routine jobs through features like just-in-time suggestions, automatic assignment routing, and assistive servicing aids. As bots accumulate knowledge, they become effective advisors, enhancing worker productivity and decision-making. The evolution of human-robot collaboration is expected to accelerate in 2024, driven by further intelligent automation advancements in Robotic Process Automation in India.

Workforce Implications in the RPA Era

As Robotic Process Automation (RPA) continues to provide significant advantages such as enhanced operational speed and cost reduction for businesses in India and globally, the repercussions on job roles and the workforce are garnering increased attention. While RPA brings about efficiencies, concerns persist regarding its impact on existing employees and the transformation of work dynamics.

The advent of automation may displace certain roles, but concurrently, new positions will emerge to support digital transformation initiatives, necessitating continuous upskilling of the workforce. As automation further integrates into both back-office and front-office processes in 2024, discussions on change management and reskilling will become more prominent.

To optimize the long-term benefits of Robotic Process Automation, organizations must proactively navigate this change. Companies that actively invest in supporting their workforce through training programs, career coaching, and redeployment services will successfully navigate disruptions. Pioneering companies in India are already implementing strategies like dedicated learning portals, internal hackathon initiatives, and reskilling stipends, recognizing the importance of an engaged, future-ready workforce for business success in an automated world. With increased adoption, both financial services and manufacturing firms will encounter growing pressure to establish policies aiding workers impacted by automation.

Prioritizing Employee Experience in RPA Integration

Designing the digital workplace with human needs in mind and ensuring seamless integration of systems into daily tasks is imperative. Investing in employee training portals, collaboration software, blended workflow tools, and skills academies enables workers to proficiently utilize various automation technologies, fostering maximum productivity and engagement. Prioritizing the user experience is crucial for shifting employee perception from viewing automation as a threat to recognizing it as an enabler. When implemented collaboratively with employees, RPA offers benefits such as reduced mundane workloads, data-driven decision-making, and opportunities to engage in higher-value activities.

Indian companies expanding globally acknowledge that digital skills and comfort with emerging technologies are essential for the future workforce. Emphasizing the employee experience through continuous development offerings and automated services supporting their goals is key to unlocking the full value of Robotic Process Automation investments.

Prioritizing Security and Governance in RPA Expansion

As the widespread adoption of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) accelerates across Indian organizations, prioritizing robust security and controls becomes paramount. Bots are increasingly entrusted with handling sensitive data, including employee records, customer identities, and financial transactions, necessitating stringent measures to mitigate potential vulnerabilities that could expose vast amounts of regulated information.

In 2024, companies implementing RPA at scale in India must fortify their systems through initiatives such as implementing multi-factor authentication for bot management, employing rule-based change control protocols, and rigorously monitoring all automated operations. Table stakes include segmenting bots and data, restricting physical and cloud access, and providing employees with comprehensive training on secure practices.

Establishing strong governance becomes imperative as various departments integrate automation into their processes. In the context of Robotic Process Automation in India, defining standards for deployment management, incident response, regulatory tracking, and reporting will enhance transparency and accountability. Regular audits ensure ongoing compliance, while revision controls seamlessly incorporate new policies.

Safeguarding against unintended tasks performed by bots necessitates detailed change logs, version control, and anomaly detection. Leadership's commitment to providing resources and oversight empowers security teams to effectively protect automated infrastructure and reinforce secure development practices within this rapidly expanding sector in India.

RPA as an Intelligent Automation Hub

Recognizing the imperative for sustained relevance, leading Robotic Process Automation (RPA) vendors are transforming RPA into an Intelligent Automation Platform. In India, a hub of brisk RPA adoption, the technology is swiftly advancing by incorporating sophisticated features such as computer vision, natural language processing, and decision engines. Positioned as an intelligent automation platform, RPA enables organizations to innovate rapidly, fostering the creation of unique and differentiated customer propositions. This evolution signifies a shift beyond routine tasks, marking a strategic move towards more intricate and intelligent automation capabilities within the dynamic landscape of business processes in India.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

In 2024, the trajectory of Robotic Process Automation in India and globally is poised for significant advancement. As intelligent capabilities like AI, process mining, and analytics become intrinsic to platforms, the potential for automation to empower organizations and transform industries will reach unprecedented heights. Navigating the complexities of changing workforce dynamics, upholding security and compliance, and delivering an enriched employee experience through these technologies will be paramount. By comprehending emerging priorities and staying abreast of a rapidly developing landscape, business leaders can position their companies to lead in an automated future and capitalize on the myriad benefits promised by Robotic Process Automation.

“The relationship between technology and people has to change in the future for the better, and I think RPA is one of the great tools to enable that change”. - Leslie Willcocks, Professor of Technology, Work, and Globalization at the London School of Economics