Business Process Automation

More than ever, organisations are looking to utilise cloud services to reduce cost and increase efficiency. However, many of these same organisations are stuck with dated processes that still have several manual steps, spreadsheets, or many informal meetings. How can we start automating these processes further whilst still staying true to our objectives, reduce cost, increase efficiency?

It’s best to start with the current landscape and to understand some of the key challenge’s organisations face today. Fundamentally, all organisations are data businesses, meaning you’re likely operating multiple applications that store customer data, citizen information or process related data. It’ crucially important that this type of information is secured and processed accordingly whilst also ensuring a good service is provided. Not only do we need to consider data but also people. The question you should be asking is, who’s involved in my processes, why are they involved and how can we make better use of them?

If we take this concept of data and people and combine them, we start to see processes arise. These processes aren’t always clear, sometimes they’re clunky and inefficient but using technology we can make these more efficient. The first step in achieving this is by understanding the process end to end, looking at methods to optimise and improve then identifying areas where technology can assist. Often, clients find that existing technology in the organisation is already available. By using these tools in a smart and targeted manner, they’re able to automate complex business processes without having to shell out for additional licensing.

The technology suite we champion when looking at business process automation is the Power Platform, however that’s not to say it’s the only option. The key to understanding how to automate a process is understanding the technologies already present within an environment and the people involved. The first step is to identify how to best use these tools before purchasing additional products. What many clients aren’t aware of though is that they’re likely already purchasing Power Platform services or can make use of existing investments. You’ll find that when purchasing Microsoft 365 licenses, some Power Platform products are available through use rights.

Now, taking a step back from new services and reflecting on our business process. Most issues arise when moving information between departments, teams, or other organisations. Wouldn’t it be easier if that “just happened”? The days of sending emails with attached spreadsheets or exporting information into a CSV are gone. We can utilise existing services such as SharePoint Online, OneDrive to help automate these steps. But let’s not stop here, the purpose of business process automation isn’t just to automate what you have but to improve the overall process and therefore the service you provide.

Using the latest Microsoft technology, risual can assist with the automation of complex business processes and lay the foundation to automate all processes in an organisation. By utilising existing and the latest technology we can help optimise and improve processes through close collaboration with the users who live and breathe them.

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