Essential guide for managers: what you need to know before implementing RPA
RPA (Robotic Process Automation) is not magic. It's strategy.
Many managers get excited about automating processes and cutting costs, but forget the most important part: without a proper diagnosis, the project becomes a frustration.
This straight-to-the-point guide is for you, the leader who wants to implement RPA with confidence, clarity, and results. No buzzwords or fluff, just what truly matters before you begin.
1. Choose the right process for RPA implementation
Not every process is a good candidate for RPA. Ideally, it should be highly repetitive, rule-based, and executed entirely in a digital environment.
Processes with high variability, human decision-making, or complex external dependencies are poor candidates. Think of tasks like form filling, data integration, invoice validation, and the like.
2. Measure the volume: RPA is only worth it at scale
Automating a task that happens twice a month doesn’t justify the investment. The return from RPA comes with volume. Calculate how many hours per month your team spends on the process and how much that costs.
Also consider the risks of human error and the operational impact. RPA is not just about savings, it’s about continuity and precision.
3. Don’t underestimate exceptions in an RPA project
Every process has exceptions. If you ignore them, your bot will crash at the first unexpected variable. Carefully document the exceptions and define how each will be handled. Some can be automated with additional logic, others should be routed for human handling.
4. Define success metrics for RPA from day one
Just “running the bot” isn’t enough. You need to know if it’s delivering value. Set clear KPIs: time saved, error reduction, cycle time, and more.
Well-implemented RPA delivers results in weeks but only if you know where to look.
5. Build the right team for an RPA Project: IT + process + operations
RPA isn’t just an IT project. Its success depends on collaboration between those who know the process, understand operations, and will build the solution.
Choose key people and involve them from the start. Avoid siloed projects.
RPA is one of the most powerful technologies to digitize and scale business processes. But without preparation, it can turn into a headache. With this RPA guide, you have a practical checklist to make safer decisions, ask the right questions, and implement with confidence.
At Verzel, we help leaders design and implement tailor-made RPA automation solutions.
Talk to us, we'll help you determine if RPA is the right solution for your challenge.