Automations

IT Process Automation (4 Steps For Implementing)

What is IT process automation and what are the 4 steps to implement it? Read to find out and see how Level can help.

Jacob Haug

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

IT Process Automation (4 Steps For Implementing)

IT process automation is key in modern workplaces. It speeds up work and helps companies stand out.

Automation handles all repetitive computer tasks. It influences all of work, from managing emails to organizing data. As a result, it frees up people's time to focus on higher-level work. Businesses can then operate more smoothly and make fewer human errors.

In this blog, we'll look at why IT process automation matters for efficiency and competitiveness.

What is IT Process Automation?

IT Process Automation, or ITPA, employs software, artificial intelligence (AI), and other digital tools. These tools undertake tasks that humans typically handle.

Furthermore, they address various activities important for business operations. 

For instance, ITPA systems manage emails and organize data. They also process service requests and even oversee employee onboarding in the IT department.

The Evolution of IT Process Automation

Digital transformation has changed how we work. It moved us from manual methods to IT process automation. As tech improves, these tools get smarter and less hands-on.

At first, we had to do everything manually. If we needed copies of a document, we had to make them one by one. But then, tech stepped in. 

Here are some types of IT process automation technologies:

Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

RPA is software that mimics how a person would interact with applications and data. RPA tools follow rules to complete tasks like filling out forms or moving files.

Digital Process Automation (DPA)

DPA focuses on using digital technology to improve business processes. It often involves creating digital workflows to handle complex tasks across different business areas.

Intelligent Process Automation (IPA)

IPA combines RPA with artificial intelligence technologies such as machine learning and natural language processing. It handles tasks that require understanding or decision-making, not just simple rule-based activities.

person typing on a laptop

Applications of IT Process Automation

IT process automation solution, as mentioned, uses software to handle tasks that IT teams usually do. This is different from general business process automation.

Business process automation focuses on all parts of a business, like HR or marketing. IT process automation zooms in on tech-related tasks. 

Here are the key tools and their roles:

Automation Software

Automation software tools act as the central command, automating tasks according to predefined rules. An example would be automatically updating programs across all company computers.

Scripting Tools

Scripting tools serve as efficient shortcuts for executing a series of steps quickly. For example, they can set up new employee email accounts in seconds.

Robotic Process Automation Tools

RPA tools specialize in repetitive tasks. These include data entry, file movement, and password resets, which can be done without human intervention.

Monitoring Tools

Monitoring tools oversee IT systems to make sure they operate correctly. They can often autonomously correct any issues. This minimizes the need for human involvement.

The Benefits of IT Process Automation on Business Efficiency

Process automation solutions improve business efficiency in numerous ways. They offer many benefits that lead to a stronger and more efficient business. 

Let's look at these benefits in depth:

  • Cost savings: An automated process cuts down on the need for manual work. 
  • Efficient processes: Automation speeds up tasks. What used to take hours now takes minutes. 
  • Fewer mistakes: Machines don't get tired or distracted. So, they make fewer mistakes than humans. 
  • Better use of time: When automation takes over routine tasks, people can focus on more complex business processes. 

Key Areas for Automation in Business

Automation can turn boring, repeated tasks into smooth, quick work. This lets people focus on more creative tasks. 

Let's explore the main areas where automation changes the game for businesses:

Routine Tasks

These include daily activities such as email checks or file updates. Workflow automation can handle these tasks without the need for manual intervention, allowing companies to save considerable time.

Repetitive Tasks

Tasks that involve repeating the same steps, like data entry, benefit greatly from automation. It completes these tasks quickly and reduces the likelihood of errors.

Service Requests

When customers or employees submit requests for assistance, automation can sort and address these promptly. Quick responses improve satisfaction levels among requesters.

Employee Onboarding

The onboarding process involves numerous steps. Automation ensures each step occurs correctly and on schedule, streamlining the experience for new employees.

Asset Management

Monitoring company assets is a comprehensive task. Automation helps oversee these assets and makes sure they are accounted for and correctly managed.

Advanced Technologies in IT Process Automation Tools

The three advanced technologies that not only automate routine tasks but also allow systems to make complex decisions, learn from data independently, and understand human language are:

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI gives machines the ability to think like humans. This makes automation better at making tough choices.

AI learns as it goes. Over time, it makes smarter decisions.

Machine Learning

Machine learning is a special part of AI. This lets computers learn from data on their own.

They don't need someone to tell them what to do each time. The more data they get, the better they guess what might happen next.

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

NLP helps computers understand how we talk and write. This is why you can chat with customer service bots. They can give you helpful answers because of NLP.

business man holding a tablet with automation hologram

4 Steps for Implementing Process Automation

Putting ITPA in place to automate complex business processes? Keep these four steps in mind to make sure the automation tool works well:

Step 1: Identify Tasks

Determine which tasks you'd like to automate. Go for simple tasks that consume much of your time as your initial targets.

Step 2: Plan for Complex Processes

Some tasks may be complicated, with many intertwined elements. Don't avoid these.

Instead, strategize on how to automate them. It might require more effort, but the payoff is worth it.

Step 3: Implement Process Automation

It's time to roll up your sleeves. Start with the simple tasks, then gradually take on more complex ones.

This step-by-step approach makes sure that the system functions before tackling more advanced tasks.

Step 4: Plan Strategically

Always keep the big picture in mind. Look for how automation can serve broader goals, not just simplifying tasks. Aim for the solution that propels your business solutions forward.

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FAQs About IT Process Automation

What is IT process automation (ITPA)?

ITPA uses software to create automated processes that minimize human intervention and increase efficiency. It involves automated workflows and forms to streamline manual processes.

How can automation improve handling service requests?

Automation can use a ticketing system to prioritize and respond to service requests efficiently. This minimizes delays and helps the IT team focus on more complex issues.

Can process automation software help with asset management?

Yes, automation can keep track of assets across multiple systems. This guarantees accurate asset management. It also reduces errors in manual tracking and supports compliance testing, which results in positive business outcomes.

How does IT automation integrate with existing systems?

IT process automation works with existing systems and internal software tools through specified procedures. This allows for seamless digital transformation without disrupting process workflows.

What role does natural language processing (NLP) play in IT automation?

NLP enables automation systems to understand and process unstructured data. This makes it possible for automation tasks like handling innumerable and undocumented requests through natural language inputs.

Level: Simplify IT Management

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