Robotic Process Automation: Impact On Society

By Author: Eugenia
Total Articles: 7
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The Robot Revolution
Don’t fear the upcoming robot revolution! It’s already here! Okay, that is a very dramatic statement, but when people worry about automation taking over their jobs, they often forget that at every step of our evolution, humans have automated tasks to make life easier and jobs more efficient. Do not think of robotic process automation as “robots taking jobs.” Instead, think of it as technological efficiencies that create and improve jobs.

Let’s look at how robotic process automation (RPA) and RPA software have been making an impact on society for centuries.

Automation
The term “automation” means a mechanism designed to follow a predetermined sequence of operations or to respond predictably to predetermined instructions. Automation, therefore, is seen in our everyday life from a simple metronome to the bots that help run Google.

Automation builds on itself. Humans used to figure out time based on the position of the sun. Then this task was automated with sundials, ...
... then pocket watches, then wristwatches, and now digital clocks. Vehicles took the same trajectory. First came walking, then riding beasts, then carts with wheels, then the motorized carriage, and now sleek cars that are fixed with computers.

I think it’s safe to agree that robotic process automation has made the world a much more comfortable place.

Why Does It Scare Us?
It is one thing to think of RPA software making our everyday lives more comfortable and convenient. It is quite another to see robotic process automation come into your workplace and outperform you on your daily tasks. Scanners, automatic check out, tablets instead of receptionists, drones instead of floor supervisors – when robotic process automation takes over part of your job, it’s natural to worry if the robot revolution will result in bread lines.

A New Way of Approaching the Matter
We are not going to deny that there are times when RPA software has made positions redundant. However, it is just as hard to deny the many upsides: job creation in the tech industry (someone has to create, upgrade, and maintain all that RPA software), improved operational efficiencies in the workplace, and less demands on staff. For example, when RPA software makes one of an employee’s tasks redundant, that employee is free to learn a more skilled task.

What Does RPA Software Do in the Workplace?
For the most part, today’s RPA software takes over repetitive tasks such as answering the phone, generating forms, or making labels. People have a habit of getting bored if these tasks form the bulk of their day, and when they are bored or uninspired, they make mistakes. RPA software is incapable of boredom and follows a strict chain of inputted commands – therefore, less mistakes. This means better results for the company, which leads to higher profits, which means growth and more hiring, and people moving into or training for higher-skilled tasks. It’s a win-win for society at large.

However…
Nobody likes to feel uncertain at work. As your company introduces robotic process automation, it is very important to let your team know what type of software is being used, how it will affect jobs, and if there will be any job loss. It is never a matter of simply saying, “here is the new system.” Your employees are your most valuable asset; treat them with the respect they deserve and communicate important changes, like the introduction of RPA software in the workplace, with them.

Involve The Burnie Group
Burnie Group is a leading consulting firm that can not only show you how robotic process automation can improve your operational efficiency, but will also help you keep your team feeling happy and confident about the process. Contact us today to learn more.

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