Business process automation is a topic of growing interest in Italy, evidenced by the fact that 42 percent of large companies have already adopted advanced technologies to improve their operational efficiency.
This finding from research by theMilan Polytechnic Observatory underscores the importance and urgency of implementing automated systems to remain competitive in an increasingly dynamic global market.
The adoption of automation technologies not only optimizes internal processes, but also offers significant benefits in terms of cost reduction, improved product quality and increased overall productivity.
Benefits of process automation
Business process automation brings with it many tangible and intangible benefits.
Among the most significant is the ability to monitor operations in real time, enabling more effective resource management and more accurate strategic planning.
Traceability and traceability of products become much simpler processes, which allows companies to maintain high standards of quality and compliance with current regulations. This is especially critical in regulated industries such as agribusiness, where product safety and quality are paramount.
Another key benefit is the reduction of human errors. Indeed, automation allows processes to be standardized and optimized, eliminating the variability and inefficiencies typical of manual operations.
This results in reduced production time. In addition, the analysis of data collected through automated systems gives the opportunity to gain valuable insights for continuous improvement of business processes.
AI’s areas of use
Artificial Intelligence (AI) finds opportunities for application in all phases of business process management and automation. Five categories can be identified, namely:
- business process management (AI4BPM)
- development and operation of automation
- interaction with automation
- process automation
- orchestration of multiple processes
AI4BPM (Artificial Intelligence for Business Process Management) involves the use of AI to supportbusiness process analysis, modeling, andoptimization. AI can be used to understand and anticipate process bottlenecks and inefficiencies, support end-to-end process reconstruction, and provide process execution suggestions.
For the development and operation of automation, AI moves within two domains: automation design and development and automation orchestration and maintenance. In interacting with automation, AI builds new ways to interact with process automation systems.
In process automation,AI expands opportunities for automation by processing unstructured data and creating dynamic and predictive decision logics.
Finally, for the orchestration of multiple processes, AI coordinates and activates different and connected processes, improving efficiency and cohesion.
Incremental approaches to adopting business process automation
The adoption of business process automation can be approached at three incremental levels: task-level, business process, and business process reengineering.
At the task-level, automation concerns one or more elementary activities, mimicking the operations of one or more actors, such as automatically sending emails to customers.
The business process layer involves the coordinated automation of multiple elementary activities that make up a process, such as ticket prioritization or automatic escalation of unresolved tickets.
Business process reengineering, the most advanced level, involves redesigning processes along with automation, developing different and more efficient workflows.
These approaches, as explained by Giovanni Miragliotta, Scientific Manager of the Observatory, can bring value to the organization by overcoming barriers such as internal resistance and managing customer reactions.
Challenges and opportunities of automation
Despite the many benefits, the adoption of automation technologies also presents some challenges.
One of the main difficulties faced by Italian companies is the lack of digital skills. In fact, many companies struggle to find qualified personnel capable of managing and optimizing the new automated systems.
Resistance, then,to change is another relevant challenge. Organizations, especially those with a long history of manual operations, may show reluctance to implement new technologies. Overcoming this resistance requires a cultural change within the company, supported by appropriate training and effective communication of the benefits of automation.
However, these challenges, after all, are also opportunities. Investing in training and digital skills development can ensure a smoother transition to automation. Companies that can overcome these barriers can improve operational efficiency and reduce operating costs.
Market impact and competitiveness
Process automation not only improves companies’ internal efficiency, but also has a positive impact on the market.
Companies that adopt these technologies can respond more quickly to customer demands, delivering high-quality products in less time. This competitive advantage is crucial in a global market where speed and quality are key determinants.In addition, automation facilitates the integration of various business functions, improving cohesion and collaboration between different departments. Automated companies are more agile and resilient, in short, and able to successfully meet the challenges of the modern marketplace.
Velika’s solutions
Velika stands out in the business process automation landscape with its advanced and customizable solutions. Velika’s offerings include ERP, MES and WMS tools designed to meet the specific needs of different industries.
ERP: Microsoft Dynamics 365
Microsoft Dynamics 365 represents a comprehensive ERP solution that integrates all business functions into a single platform. This system not only improves operational efficiency, but also provides advanced tools for data analysis, enabling informed and strategic decisions. Small and medium-sized businesses can benefit from a flexible and scalable platform that grows with the business and adapts to its evolving needs.
MES: Agronet
Agronet is an MES solution specifically designed for the agribusiness sector. This platform ensures complete traceability of products, from raw material to finished product, improving inventory management and optimizing the entire production process. Agronet allows real-time monitoring of production operations, reducing waste and improving overall efficiency.
WMS: Maganet
Maganet is a WMS software that optimizes warehouse management through the use of Wi-Fi connected handheld devices. This system provides complete control over goods movements, improving traceability and inventory management. Maganet helps companies reduce operational errors and improve warehouse productivity.
Business process automation is a crucial turning point for Italian companies wishing to maintain their competitiveness in the global market.
Despite initial hurdles, the benefits of adopting advanced technologies are clear and tangible. Investing in automation, after all, not only improves operational efficiency but can also help build a sustainable and competitive future for Italian companies.
Velika, with its innovative solutions, stands as an ideal partner for companies wishing to embark on a path of digital transformation. Investing in automation not only improves operational efficiency, but also helps build a sustainable and competitive future for Italian companies.
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