Process automation as the key to increasing competitiveness
Process automation helps companies to minimise operational costs while increasing their efficiency. This involves the rationalisation of recurring business processes, allowing valuable resources such as time and personnel to be used more efficiently. An important aspect is the reduction of errors through standardised processes, which lead to higher product quality and consistency. For example, numerous decision-makers in manufacturing report that automated processes enable more reliable products with lower complaint rates. This stability generates trust among customers and sets companies apart from the competition.
How process automation secures competitive advantages
Process automation often provides competitive advantages because it enables rapid market and customer customisation. Companies report that automated workflows allow them to react flexibly to changes and thus increase their service quality. In the telecommunications industry, for example, routine enquiries can be processed automatically, which significantly shortens response times and improves customer satisfaction. Logistics companies also benefit from automated process chains that optimise delivery times and therefore allow resources to be used more efficiently.
Cost reduction is also a decisive factor: reduced manual intervention reduces error rates and operating costs. This increases profitability and gives companies the financial leeway they need to invest in innovations.
Examples from process automation in industry
BEST PRACTICE at company XYZ (name changed due to NDA contract) Here, the introduction of an intelligent software platform has driven forward process automation in accounting. The automated recording and processing of invoices reduced the processing time by over 50 per cent, while at the same time significantly reducing the susceptibility to errors. This led to faster liquidity planning and greater transparency in the financial processes.
BEST PRACTICE at ABC (name changed due to NDA contract) Process automation was used in quality control at a medium-sized production company. Automated inspection systems replaced manual inspection processes and ensured consistent compliance with quality standards. The reduction in rejects and rework led to significant cost savings and improved delivery capability.
BEST PRACTICE at DEF (name changed due to NDA contract) Automated customer communication was established in the service sector. Standard enquiries could be processed independently using workflow servers and AI-supported chatbots. This allowed employees to focus on more complex tasks, which improved overall service quality and customer satisfaction.
Process automation: Technological principles and instruments
Process automation is based on various technologies. Robotic process automation (RPA) automates rule-based, repetitive tasks. API integrations seamlessly connect different systems and enable end-to-end workflows. Artificial intelligence complements this with the ability to make complex decisions based on data analyses. The combination of such technologies enables orchestrated automation beyond individual process steps. This ensures agility and efficiency - crucial factors for surviving in a dynamic market environment.
In the area of business software, low-code and no-code platforms provide further important support. They also enable non-technical employees to automate or adapt processes independently, which accelerates the digital transformation in the long term.
Specific fields of application for process automation
Individual sectors show a wide range of possibilities: In the financial sector, for example, loan applications are checked and processed automatically, reducing processing times and manual errors. In logistics, networked sensor technology and automatic inventory management enable precise control of warehouse processes. In the healthcare sector, too, automated documentation solutions make it possible to reduce the workload of medical staff, leaving more time for patient care.
Process automation as support for projects
Many decision-makers turn to specialised consultants with questions relating to the introduction or further development of process automation. They provide support in analysing individual challenges in the project and implementing technical solutions step by step. The focus is not on a quick, complete solution, but on the targeted development and optimisation of existing processes. Clients often report that such support provides valuable impetus and creates confidence in dealing with new technologies.
Typical topics that decision-makers come to us with
Frequent concerns include the selection of suitable automation technologies, the identification of process modules with the greatest potential for optimisation and the integration of automation into existing IT landscapes. Risks and change management aspects are also discussed, as employee acceptance is a decisive success factor.
My analysis
Process automation opens up a wide range of opportunities for companies to secure their competitiveness and make their business processes fit for the future. Decision-makers benefit from significantly faster processes, higher quality results and greater flexibility to react to market changes. Implementation should always be understood as an accompanied process that takes individual requirements into account and addresses possible risks. In the long term, process automation supports companies in realising sustainable efficiency benefits.
Further links from the text above:
[1] Increasing competitive advantages through automation technologies
[3] Why process automation on SAP BTP is state-of-the-art
[5] Process automation software: More efficiency for companies
[7] Orchestrated automation creates competitive advantages
For more information and if you have any questions, please contact Process automation or read more blog posts on the topic Process automation here.
Deutsch 
English (UK)