When we say Robots, many people think of something with metal arms and lasers shining out of their eyes that might initiate a war against the human race. In fact, in many respects, the robots that we refer to are rather mundane; just a range of software applications that work on your computers. They are a specialist branch of Artificial Intelligence – RPA (Robotic Process Automation).

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ROBOTICS AND AI?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a broad term that covers many disciplines, including Robotics. Most people think of AI as machines that learn, identifying patterns and optimal ways of achieving desired results, which is more accurately called machine learning. Robotics operates within the framework that you set. The best Robotics tools are pre-integrated with the leading AI tools, such as IBM Watson, Google Deepmind & Microsoft Vision. You can think of Robotics as the “hands” that get things done and machine learning as the “brain” that makes complex decisions.  

This is why Robotics is best suited to structured, repetitive tasks, which are thankfully the ones least suited to humans.  

WHAT CAN ROBOTS DO?

Robotics are best used to replicate repetitive tasks where standard business rules can be applied. They are also particularly useful for time-critical activities, as they work longer and faster than staff. Work that requires re-keying data between systems is an absolute “sweet spot” for Robotics., 

Robots support your existing staff, doing the work they don’t like doing. After all, few job descriptions say “you will spend most of your day entering data in spreadsheets and re-typing data into numerous IT systems”. Freeing up human labour by implementing RPA will not only improve staff morale, but help optimise your business processes, ensuring they are followed consistently and accurately.

In the back office, Robots often perform tasks such as extracting files from emails and entering the data into IT systems, cross-referencing data between systems and acting on anomalies, processing orders, assigning and tracking tasks through completion, categorising and sending emails and compiling online data.  

Robotics can also drive Front Office action too, managing inbound and outbound communications. Where communication is via email, social media or text messages, Robots can prepare personalised messages, combining data extracting from your IT systems with boilerplate text. Where communication is via human voice, they can be integrated with chatbots, eliminating the need for expensive IT integration. 

We estimate that 60% of the work performed in most back-office jobs could be automated by Robots, freeing staff who understand your business and customers to take on higher value work.

ROBOTICS AS A SERVICE

T-Impact invented RPA (robotic process automation) as a Service, a subscription model that enables companies to test the water with minimal cost and build a solid business case before making further investment. Our customers tell us this is an effective way to drive change within their organisations, whilst achieving rapid ROI.

We were also the first company to offer Orchestration as a Service, providing all the capability at 70% less cost. Speak with one of our experts to learn how companies within your industry are using robotics and AI to improve customer experience, reduce costs and increase profitability.

Furthermore, we offer a unique centre of excellence model, training your staff to understand robotic process automation and providing support services to help your team continue to be effective.

MEET THE ROBOT FAMILY