How to start with process automation
Getting started with AI process automation involves choosing a simple process with a known answer, mapping the current process, and identifying handoffs that create delays, a category manager can use AsscherAi to automate and compare results, then refine the process based on the findings and adjust as needed.
A category manager sits at her desk, staring at a spreadsheet that compares the current procurement process with the proposed automated one, trying to understand why the results are not matching up as expected, and wondering where to start troubleshooting, which is a common challenge many organisations face when getting started with AI process automation.
Choosing a first case with a known answer
When getting started with process automation, it is crucial to choose a first case that already has a known answer to compare against, this allows the organisation to verify the accuracy of the automated process and make any necessary adjustments before scaling up, a shift supervisor can use AsscherAi to query the organisation's data and get answers in real time, which can be used as a baseline to compare the automated process.
The goal is to select a process that is relatively simple, yet still representative of the types of tasks that the organisation wants to automate, this will help to ensure that the automated process is producing the expected results and that any issues can be quickly identified and addressed, for example, a category manager can use AsscherAi to automate the process of comparing two suppliers, and then verify the results against the known answer.
Mapping the current process
Before automating any part of the process, it is essential to map out the current process in detail, this includes identifying all the steps involved, the roles and responsibilities of each person, and the systems and tools used, a category manager can use this information to identify areas where automation can add the most value, and to ensure that the automated process is integrated with the existing systems and tools.
Mapping the current process can be a time-consuming task, but it is a critical step in ensuring that the automated process is successful, it allows the organisation to identify potential roadblocks and to make any necessary changes before implementing the automated process, for example, a shift supervisor can use AsscherAi to query the organisation's data and identify areas where the current process is causing delays or inefficiencies.
The handoffs that create most of the delay
One of the most significant challenges in automating a process is dealing with the handoffs between different teams or systems, these handoffs can create delays and inefficiencies, and can be a major obstacle to successful automation, a category manager can use AsscherAi to identify these handoffs and to develop strategies for streamlining them.
For example, a shift supervisor may need to pass information to a category manager, who then needs to review and approve it before it can be passed on to the next team, this can create a significant delay, and can be a major bottleneck in the process, by using AsscherAi to automate the handoffs, the organisation can reduce the delay and improve the overall efficiency of the process.
What to stop doing if the comparison fails
If the comparison between the automated process and the known answer fails, it is essential to stop and re-evaluate the process, this may involve going back to the mapping stage and re-examining the current process, or it may involve making adjustments to the automated process, a category manager can use AsscherAi to identify the root cause of the failure and to develop a plan to address it.
It is also important to be willing to stop doing things that are not working, and to be open to trying new approaches, this can be a difficult step, but it is essential to ensuring that the automated process is successful, for more information on how to get started with AI process automation, you can visit our website here, or contact us directly.
What this does not do
While AI process automation can be a powerful tool for improving efficiency and reducing costs, it is not a magic bullet, and it is not suitable for every organisation or every process, it is essential to carefully evaluate the potential benefits and challenges of automation, and to develop a clear plan for implementation and integration.
Some people mistakenly believe that AI process automation can be used to completely replace human workers, but this is not the case, while automation can certainly augment and support human workers, it is not a replacement for human judgment and expertise, and it is essential to ensure that the automated process is designed to work in conjunction with human workers, rather than replacing them.
Frequently asked questions
What is the first step in getting started with AI process automation?
Choosing a simple process with a known answer to compare against and verify accuracy.
How do I identify areas where automation can add the most value?
By mapping the current process in detail, including steps, roles, and systems used.
What is a major obstacle to successful automation?
Handoffs between teams or systems, which can create delays and inefficiencies.
What should I do if the comparison between automated and known answer fails?
Stop and re-evaluate the process, making adjustments as needed, and be willing to try new approaches.