Process analysis – the key to successful automation

A thorough analysis makes it possible to examine the individual process steps closely and determine which parts are particularly suitable for automation. It is important to decide whether the entire process or only certain parts of it should or can be automated.
In addition, a comprehensive analysis offers further advantages, such as:

• Optimization of automation success: Through in-depth process knowledge, possible hurdles can be identified and overcome in a targeted manner.
  
• Reducing errors: A clear distribution of tasks and the consideration of all potential scenarios reduce the risk of errors entering into the automation.
• Increasing efficiency: With a deeper understanding of the process, inefficient steps, unnecessary loops or manual checks can be identified and optimized.
• Reducing costs: A more efficient handling of processes leads to a reduction in operating costs.

1. Recording the actual process
2. Identifying bottlenecks and weak points
3. Checking business rules for up-to-dateness and reasonableness
4. Conducting employee interviews
5. Use of process mining for data-driven analysis

The detailed analysis includes the examination of all individual tasks of a process with regard to their automatability. It is important to categorize the tasks according to the BPMN 2.0 standard. This categorization enables a clear distinction between tasks that can be fully taken over by a workflow engine and those that require human interaction.

Processes often contain decision points where different paths can be taken. A thorough analysis of the decision points is necessary to ensure a smooth flow of the automated process. It is important to identify all possible branches and variations in the process and to ensure that these are adequately considered in the automation concept to avoid malfunctions.

Another important aspect is the identification of the systems involved in the process. The integration of different systems can often be one of the biggest challenges and a significant effort in process automation. Careful planning and implementation of the interfaces is therefore crucial to ensure smooth interaction.

Thorough preparation and analysis is crucial to the success of an automation project. An in-depth understanding of the process is essential to ensure efficient automation. This understanding forms the basis for ensuring that the automation creates the desired added value for the company and the people involved. Only when these conditions are met can automation achieve its full potential and deliver sustainable benefits.