Word of the Day: robotic process automation (RPA)

Word of the Day Daily updates on the latest technology terms |March 22, 2019

robotic process automation Robotic process automation (RPA) is the use of software with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning capabilities to handle high-volume, repeatable tasks that previously required humans to perform. These tasks can include queries, calculations and maintenance of records and transactions. RPA technology consists of software robots (bots) that can log into an application and complete a simple task, such as entering a missing zip code, and then log out. RPA software isn't part of an organization's IT infrastructure. Instead, it sits on top of it, enabling a company to implement the technology quickly and efficiently -- all without changing the existing infrastructure and systems. The evolution of RPA Although the term "robotic process automation" can be traced to the early 2000s, it had been developing for a number of years previously. RPA evolved from three key technologies: screen scraping, workflow automation and artificial intelligence. Screen scraping is the process of collecting screen display data from a legacy application so that the data can be displayed by a more modern user interface. The advantages of workflow automation software, which eliminates the need for manual data entry and increases order fulfillment rates, include increased speed, efficiency and accuracy. Lastly, artificial intelligence involves the ability of computer systems to perform tasks that normally require human intervention and intelligence. Read more... Quote of the Day "When we talk about RPA, this is really digital labor in the truest sense, meaning, once you implement it, the virtual engineer will take care of it end to end." - Gerson Benker   Trending Terms AI machine learning screen scraping digital transformation IT automation supply chain management   Learning Center Robotic process automation software unites vendors, partners As robotic process automation software deployments grow in sophistication, vendors are teaming with channel partners to tap the market opportunity. 'Proof of value' -- not proof of concept -- key to RPA technology Companies interested in robotic process automation (RPA) technology get fixated on proving it works, not its business value. Here's how to fix that. What IT automation trends mean for the future of the shop Tech has enabled everyone to be technical. What does that mean for the IT department? Here's why IT automation trends are just the beginning of the changes. How to create the best RPA architecture Robotic process automation can be a key component of a digital transformation initiative. Here's how to build an RPA architecture that delivers results. Digital labor transforms IT, but not without careful prep Carestream IT chief Gerson Benker talks about his experience with robotic process automation and how outsourcing experience helps when deploying digital labor. Writing for Business The promise of automation is that people will need to work _____ hours. a. fewer b. less Answer   Stay In Touch For feedback about any of our definitions or to suggest a new definition, please contact me at: mrouse@techtarget.com   Visit the Word of the Day Archives and catch up on what you've missed!   FOLLOW US About This E-Newsletter This e-newsletter is published by the TechTarget network. To unsubscribe from Whatis.com, click here. Please note, this will not affect any other subscriptions you have signed up for. TechTarget, Whatis, 275 Grove Street, Newton, MA 02466. Contact: webmaster@techtarget.com Copyright 2018 TechTarget. All rights reserved.