Understanding Robotic processing automation

Avi Ben Ezra
4 min readJun 21, 2019

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A short history

It was during the 1990s and 2000s that robotic processing automation was first introduced. It quickly spread to many of the manufacturing industries. The reason for this is that robotic processing automation also known as RPA has proven to be highly effective as far as back-office functions are concerned. The purpose of RPA is to deploy virtual workforces comprising of software robots to accomplish certain tasks. One of the primary attractions as far as RPA is concerned is its ability to manage a large number of frequently repeated tasks. As far as the very popular chatbot is concerned they are software assistants who are able to make use of voice or text messages in order to communicate. These chatbots are highly efficient virtual companions that can be used in many ways. It is possible to integrate these chatbots into applications, instant messengers and websites. By making use of these technologies it is possible for business owners and entrepreneurs to have a closer relationship with their target audience. Emerging technologies resulted in sophisticated artificial intelligence as well as enhanced natural language processing which has resulted in a revolution as far as efficient conversation is concerned.

There are highly efficient chatbots

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Many industries have already benefited from sophisticated chatbots. It is especially when it comes to an excellent consumer service that chatbots had been found to be in a league of their own. They are able to streamline the supply chain processes of many businesses. They are also useful when it comes to consumer experiences relating to services provided and also sales. Both chatbots and RPA are based on solid principles. It has been seen over the last couple of years that there has been tremendous innovation as far as technologies are concerned. The capabilities associated with chatbots and RPA is also quite remarkable and this will require a more proactive attitude from enterprises and it is important to stay up-to-date with developments in the industry. There is still too much confusion when it comes to chatbots, robots and software bots. All of these are dependent on artificial intelligence in order to function, but the way in which they are applied is completely different.

Distinguishing between chatbots and RPA

The primary purpose of chatbots is to function as a conversational interface between users and software systems. They can also help to simplify and streamline the completion of a wide range of tasks. The initial contact between the consumer and the business will be handled by a chatbot. However, that interaction will also trigger an RPA which will proceed to complete one or more tasks without needing to communicate with the software. On the other hand, RPA has the purpose to simulate and even replace human-driven workflows. This is done by initiating processes such as transactions and tasks by making use of a script or tool which can also be referred to as a software bot. It is entirely possible to have an environment which is semi-automated or fully automated. It is frequently seen in a variety of industries how chatbots can be used to perform a variety of automated tasks in much the same way as things are done by RPA. Many people are confused by these technologies but primarily chatbots are used to assist employees while RPA is mostly used to replace employees. Whenever this is done there will always be improved productivity, enhanced flexibility as well as substantially lower cost of operation.

Powerful but still finite

Highly sophisticated chatbots and RPA’s can accomplish a tremendous amount in any industry where they are implemented. Such implementation can result in a tremendous amount of value for just about any enterprise. Even so, these technologies are limited in what they can accomplish. Nevertheless, new technologies are emerging every day and many things which were formerly deemed to be impossible can now be achieved. Many of those technologies are now used in tandem and this is resulting in even better results than those which were formerly achieved. Unfortunately, there are still many misconceptions relating to chatbots and RPA’s and this is proving to be an obstacle for many businesses. It is important to understand exactly how chatbots and RPA is should be used and it’s also important to understand all of the limitations and benefits which is provided by these two technologies. It is also important to understand how the union of these technologies can help organizations to benefit tremendously. Lastly, it is important to stay up-to-date with everything which is happening in the artificial intelligence industry because by doing so businesses can gain a substantial advantage over their competitors.

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Avi Ben Ezra

CTO and Cofounder of SnatchBot and SnatchApp, I lead the Group’s long-term technology vision and I am responsible for running all facets of the tech business.