WHAT IS ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION?
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is a type of business process automation that relies on software robots (bots) or artificial intelligence (AI) agents. However, RPA should not be mistaken for AI, as it operates through automation technology that follows a predefined workflow. It is sometimes referred to as software robotics. In conventional workflow automation tools, a software developer creates a sequence of actions to automate a task and connects to the back-end system using internal application programming interfaces (APIs) or a specific scripting language. In contrast, RPA systems generate the list of actions by observing a user carrying out the task within the application’s graphical user interface (GUI) and then automate the process by mimicking those actions within the GUI. This approach can make automation more accessible, especially in systems that do not provide APIs for integration. RPA tools share many technical similarities with GUI testing tools, which also automate interactions with the user interface, often by replicating a set of recorded user actions. However, RPA tools go further by enabling the handling of data across multiple applications. For example, an RPA system might receive an email with an invoice, extract the relevant information, and input it into an accounting system.
USE OF ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION
The hosting of RPA services aligns with the concept of a software robot, with each robotic instance operating its own virtual workstation, much like a human employee. The robot performs actions and executes automations using keyboard and mouse controls. Typically, these activities occur within a virtual environment rather than being displayed on a physical screen; the robot interprets the screen electronically and does not require a physical display to function. The scalability of modern RPA solutions, which are often built on such architectures, is largely due to the development of virtualisation technology. Without virtualisation, large-scale deployments would be constrained by the need to manage physical hardware and the associated costs. The adoption of RPA in business has demonstrated significant cost savings when compared with traditional, non-automated approaches. However, RPA does carry certain risks. Critics have highlighted concerns such as the potential to stifle innovation and the added complexity in maintaining existing software systems. These systems must now account for interactions with graphical user interfaces in ways they were not originally designed to support.
ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION APPLICATIONS
- Data entry and processing – Automating the input of data from various sources into different systems.
- Invoice processing – Automating the extraction of data from invoices and the handling of payments.
- Customer service – Automating tasks such as responding to frequently asked questions and processing routine requests.
- Financial reporting – Automating the extraction and consolidation of financial data for reporting purposes.
- HR processes – Automating tasks including the onboarding of new employees, managing leave requests, and processing payroll.
ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION BENEFITS
- Increased efficiency and productivity – RPA can automate time-consuming and repetitive tasks, enabling employees to concentrate on more complex and strategic work.
- Reduced operational costs – By automating routine activities, organisations can lessen their dependence on manual labour and reduce operational expenditure.
- Improved accuracy and consistency – RPA bots follow predefined rules and procedures, ensuring tasks are completed with consistent accuracy.
- Enhanced compliance – RPA can assist organisations in meeting regulatory requirements by automating compliance-related processes.
- Faster turnaround times – RPA can significantly shorten the time required to complete tasks, leading to improved turnaround times overall.
ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION IN CYBERSECURITY
The applications of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in cybersecurity extend well beyond basic task automation; they strengthen the overall security framework, enhance efficiency, and reduce human error in critical processes. From incident response and access control management to compliance monitoring and log analysis, RPA enables cybersecurity teams to concentrate on high-value activities that require human judgment. As cyber threats grow increasingly sophisticated, RPA offers organisations a powerful means of handling repetitive tasks, optimising resources, and reinforcing their defences. By integrating RPA, businesses can remain agile, proactive, and resilient in a digital environment that demands constant vigilance and innovation.
- Conducting Security Tests Efficiently – RPA can automate routine security testing—such as penetration tests—by simulating cyber attacks and assessing system defences. It generates detailed reports, enabling more frequent and thorough testing without overburdening cybersecurity teams.
- Automating Software Updates – RPA automates the detection and installation of software updates, ensuring systems stay current and secure. This reduces human error and protects against vulnerabilities caused by outdated software.
- Automating Log Analysis – By scanning log files for anomalies or suspicious patterns, RPA accelerates threat detection and alerts teams in real-time. This frees security professionals from manually reviewing vast amounts of data.
- Enhancing Incident Response – RPA can monitor for suspicious activity and initiate immediate, pre-set responses—such as isolating systems or notifying teams—helping to contain threats swiftly and consistently.
- Streamlining Access Authorisation – RPA automates identity verification and access permissions, reducing the risk of unauthorised access while maintaining efficient user access control.
- Real-Time Breach Detection – RPA continuously monitors networks, identifies potential breaches, and alerts teams for fast action. This helps limit data loss and safeguard sensitive information.
- Maintaining Security Compliance – RPA supports regulatory compliance by tracking data access, logging changes, and flagging discrepancies. This ensures continuous adherence to legal standards and reduces the risk of penalties.
- Processing Security Notifications – RPA filters and categorises security alerts, highlighting critical threats and reducing false positives. This helps cybersecurity teams respond more efficiently and avoid alert fatigue.
- Managing and Categorising Data – RPA ensures data is accurately classified and stored securely, reducing the risk of mismanagement or data loss. This supports better data protection and easier access when needed.
HYPERAUTOMATION
Hyperautomation refers to the use of advanced technologies such as robotic process automation (RPA), artificial intelligence, machine learning, and process mining to enhance the capabilities of workers and automate processes in ways that go far beyond traditional automation methods. It involves the integration of multiple technologies, enabling faster development of applications, often through low-code or no-code platforms, alongside automation tools that coordinate both human and digital workers for smarter, more strategic workflow optimisation. While the rise of hyperautomation began with RPA, it is important to note that RPA alone does not constitute hyperautomation. True hyperautomation involves a combination of tools that work together to replicate elements of human involvement within complex tasks.
ZHERO AND AUTOMATIK
Zhero, London’s #1 end-to-end cybersecurity and It support for SMEs is currently collaborating Atomatik, a multi-national an intelligent automation company. Zhero is using Atomatik RPA tools. Zhero CEO, Izak Oosthuizen, says:
“As an MSP, we are always on the lookout for reliable, cost-effective solutions to improve our key KPIs while delivering best-in-class security protection to our clients. Atomatik helps us cut through operational noise by automating tedious tasks that no one wants to do, such as T1 triage and patching. They were able to easily integrate with our existing tech stack and, in some cases, boosted our SecOps efficiency by over 90%. Their support team has been incredibly responsive and always ready to lend a helping hand.”
Reach out to Izak for help with your RPA, automation and digital transformation.