Robotic Process Automation
(RPA)
Concepts, Evolution, Tools &
Applications
Emergence of RPA
• Need to automate repetitive, rule-based tasks.
• Mimics human interaction with digital systems.
• Driven by digital transformation and cost efficiency.
• Evolved from screen scraping and macros.
Evolution of RPA
• Pre-RPA: Manual tasks, macros, scripting.
• Early RPA: Desktop automation and rule-based bots.
• Modern RPA: AI integration, cloud-based bots.
• Future: Hyperautomation and intelligent agents.
RPA vs Traditional Automation
• RPA requires little to no coding.
• RPA handles front-end and back-end processes.
• Traditional automation is less flexible and more expensive.
• RPA integrates easily with existing systems.
Benefits of RPA
• 24/7 operational bots increase efficiency.
• Reduces human errors and operational cost.
• Scales easily with growing needs.
• Improves compliance and employee satisfaction.
Application Areas of RPA
• Banking: KYC, reconciliation, loan processing.
• Healthcare: Claims, billing, patient data.
• Telecom: Customer service, order handling.
• Retail: Inventory, order processing.
• HR: Onboarding, payroll, attendance.
Components of RPA
• Bot Creator/Designer: Builds workflows.
• Bot Runner: Executes automation tasks.
• Control Center: Manages and monitors bots.
• Recorder: Captures user actions.
• Analytics: Reports and insights on performance.
RPA Platforms
• Popular tools: UiPath, Automation Anywhere, Blue Prism.
• Features: Drag-and-drop, AI integration.
• Orchestration tools to manage bots.
• Templates and reusable components.
Templates in RPA Tools
• Reusable automation structures.
• Common examples: Invoice, email, scraping.
• Speeds up development process.
• Ensures standardization and consistency.
User Interface in RPA Tools
• Visual, drag-and-drop environment.
• Panels: Toolbar, Designer, Properties, Activities.
• No/low code for building workflows.
• Debugging and testing tools included.
Domains in RPA Activities
• System: File, log, clipboard tasks.
• UI Automation: Clicks, typing, scraping.
• Data Table: Read/write/manipulate data.
• Office: Excel, Word, Outlook operations.
• AI: OCR, ML model integration.
Workflow Files in RPA
• Define sequence of automation tasks.
• Formats: .xaml (UiPath), .bot (Automation Anywhere).
• Reusable and modular structures.
• Enable collaboration and maintenance.
Summary
• RPA automates repetitive business tasks.
• Benefits include cost savings, speed, and accuracy.
• Used in multiple domains and industries.
• Platforms offer visual tools, templates, and management features.
• Workflow files and domains support rapid automation.
