Automation can be an optimal solution in such an instance. What was once considered a “luxury” is now an essential tool for companies looking to grow. Automation platforms allow teams to streamline operations, eliminate repetitive tasks, and focus on strategic initiatives. As businesses look to "achieve more with less," automation is the key to boosting productivity, reducing costs, and maximizing revenue.
In this article, we'll cover why business process automation matters and how companies can harness automation to achieve more with less.
Understanding business automation
Business automation refers to the use of technology to handle repetitive tasks, streamline workflows, and enhance the overall efficiency of business operations. One of the key automation benefits to business is the possibility of reducing human intervention and, therefore, minimizing errors. After all, it's hard to deny that a “machine” is more prone to errors than a human.
What’s more, business automation has evolved significantly over the years, now offering a wide range of solutions suited for companies of all sizes and industries.
Here’re the key types of business automation:
- Basic automation
Basic automation aims to simplify repetitive tasks by automating them with low or no coding required. This type of automation enhances everyday operations, such as data entry, report creation, and basic administrative duties.
Business process management (BPM) and robotic process automation (RPA) are the most typical examples of basic automation.
- Process automation
Process automation is designed to standardize and manage business processes for improved transparency and uniformity. By automating complex workflows through dedicated software, businesses can increase productivity while gaining valuable insights into their operations.
Common examples of process automation include workflow automation and process mining, which help identify bottlenecks and optimize business functions.
- Advanced automation
Advanced automation integrates human intelligence with machines to automate complex, multi-system processes across an organization. By using technologies such as machine learning and natural language processing, advanced automation solutions manage unstructured data and support decision-making processes.
- Intelligent automation
The most sophisticated form of automation — intelligent automation —leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to allow machines to learn from past experiences and make decisions.
Intelligent automation is already widely used in many industries, from manufacturing and healthcare to finance and retail, streamlining processes and reducing costs. What’s more, 92% of executives believe their organization’s workflows will be digitized and enhanced by AI-driven automation by 2025.
In summary, automation can simplify many aspects of running a business and can be applied to various areas and departments, such as:
- Document processing and management
- Content management
- Workflow automation
- Decision management
- Customer service automation
- Financial automation
- Supply chain management
- etc.
How automation helps businesses increase efficiency across all levels
Automation has been transforming industries for years, but with the advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning, its potential has expanded significantly. How can properly implemented business process automation help your business expand?
#1. It streamlines operations
The importance of business process automation comes from the ability to simplify and speed up operations by eliminating repetitive, manual tasks that slow down productivity. From data entry to task management, automating routine processes allows businesses to focus on more strategic goals. It not only reduces human error but also ensures consistent outcomes, helping companies to maintain smoother workflows.
Low-code solutions: the optimal way to speed up development
One powerful way to streamline operations is low-code development. Low-code platforms enable businesses to automate and optimize their workflows with minimal coding knowledge.
For example, for one of our clients, a German tour operator, we leveraged Retool, a low-code platform, to automate their travel itinerary creation process. By integrating live data from third-party APIs, we helped them streamline a previously time-consuming task, saving countless hours that were once spent on manual input. This significantly boosted their overall productivity. Platforms like Retool and Airtable allowed us to quickly build and adapt workflows tailored to their specific needs, demonstrating how low-code solutions can deliver fast, impactful results. Explore more on this case study here.
By using low-code tools, teams can design custom solutions that integrate various systems, ensuring that business processes work seamlessly across departments. This flexibility enables organizations to automate unique operational needs and scale as required, ultimately making business operations leaner.
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Insights-driven decision-making
A data-driven approach provides leaders with a clear path forward, enabling confident decisions even in uncertain conditions.
According to the report, 89% of IT leaders have access to valuable data for decision-making, yet 60% feel burdened by the sheer volume. Furthermore, 89% believe IT needs to invest in tools that transform data into actionable insights. Automation could be the leading choice for this. By applying machine learning and predictive analytics, businesses can automate decision-making, leading to faster, data-driven results.
#2. It reduces costs
According to PwC's 2023 Pulse Survey, 59% of CFOs identify cost-cutting as a top priority for the finance function over the next 12 months, while 47% of IT decision-makers report that cost optimization is their top concern.
One of the key ways automation helps businesses achieve more with less is by reducing costs. Automating repetitive tasks such as data entry and inventory management helps lower labor costs and improves accuracy, allowing staff to focus on more higher-value activities. In today's economy, where efficiency is crucial, automation plays an essential role in controlling expenses. Many organizations are also leveraging automation to enhance their DevOps processes, streamlining development stages to accelerate progress and reduce errors. This not only improves productivity but also cuts down on costs associated with manual efforts and mistakes.
#3. It enhances customer experience
Business automation is not only about improving internal processes; it plays a significant role in enhancing customer experience. Automation empowers businesses to offer quicker, more personalized, and reliable services, which enhances customer satisfaction and fosters loyalty.
Here’s why automation is a game-changer for customer experience:
- Faster response times: AI and chatbots provide real-time responses, meeting the 82% of consumers who expect instant issue resolution, as per the source. Through automation, 92% of companies improved response times, and 83% found it easier to address customer requests, according to the same source.
- Personalized interactions: 65% of customers expect companies to adapt to their shifting needs. Automation tools can analyze customer data and tailor interactions based on preferences and behaviors. For example, AI algorithms can recommend products or services based on a customer’s purchase history, creating a personalized experience.
- Consistency across channels: Automation ensures uniformity in customer interactions across various platforms — whether it’s through email, social media, or web chat. This reduces the chance of errors and provides customers with a seamless experience, no matter where they engage with the business.
See how we helped our client deepen customer relationships via internal Retool app development in this case study.
#4. It empowers teams
And frees up their time for more strategic work.
Indeed, a survey by Salesforce found that 74% of users believe automation tools enable them to complete tasks more quickly. Additionally, 90% of IT professionals report that automation has significantly improved their satisfaction with interdepartmental collaboration.
By automating routine tasks such as data entry, report generation, and scheduling, employees can focus on problem-solving, innovation, and long-term planning. This approach not only increases job satisfaction but also enhances business outcomes.
Akveo’s case
Lead Generation Tool to Reduce Manual Work
Our client, Afore Capital, a venture capital firm focused on pre-seed investments, aimed to automate their lead generation processes but struggled with existing out-of-the-box solutions. To tackle this challenge, they sought assistance from our team of Akveo Retool experts.
The scope of work
The client needed a tailored solution to log and track inbound deals effectively. They required an application that could facilitate the addition, viewing, and editing of company and founder information, ensuring data integrity and preventing duplicates. Additionally, Afore Capital aimed to integrate external tools like PhantomBuster and LinkedIn to streamline data collection.
The result
By developing a custom Retool application, we streamlined the lead generation process, significantly reducing manual data entry. The application enabled employees to manage inbound deals efficiently while automated workflows for email parsing, notifications, and dynamic reporting enhanced operational efficiency. This allowed Afore Capital's team to focus more on building relationships with potential founders rather than on administrative tasks.
Learn more about the case
How automation assists in work optimization:
- Increases focus on strategic tasks: Employees spend less time on mundane tasks and more on activities that drive growth.
- Boosts productivity: Automation allows teams to accomplish more in less time, enhancing overall output.
- Improves collaboration: By reducing workload, teams can work together more effectively on strategic initiatives.
- Enhances job satisfaction: Employees feel more engaged and valued when they can work on meaningful projects.
Final thoughts: why is automation important in business?
By automating processes, companies can work more efficiently, enhance teamwork, and make better decisions. What’s more, integrating automation with DevOps helps speed up software development and delivery, creating a culture of continuous improvement. Plus, it saves money by cutting down on manual tasks and errors, allowing your team to focus on more valuable work.
Ultimately, automation isn’t just a nice-to-have; it's essential for companies willing to succeed. If you’re ready to enhance your operations, our business process automation services cover workflow automation, low-code development, and more, tailored to help you succeed with automation. Let’s collaborate to boost efficiency and achieve success in your organization, contact now!
Building Reconciliation Tool for e-commerce company
Our client was in need of streamlining and simplifying its monthly accounting reconciliation process – preferably automatically. But with a lack of time and low budget for a custom build, development of a comprehensive software wasn’t in the picture. After going through the case and customer’s needs, we decided to implement Retool. And that was the right choice.
The scope of work
Our team developed a custom reconciliation tool designed specifically for the needs of high-volume transaction environments. It automated the processes and provided a comprehensive dashboard for monitoring discrepancies and anomalies in real-time.
The implementation of Retool significantly reduced manual effort, as well as fostered a more efficient and time-saving reconciliation process.
Creating Retool Mobile App for a Wine Seller
A leading spirits and wine seller in Europe required the development of an internal mobile app for private client managers and administrators. The project was supposed to be done in 1,5 months. Considering urgency and the scope of work, our developers decided to use Retool for swift and effective development.
The scope of work
Our developers built a mobile application tailored to the needs of the company's sales force: with a comprehensive overview of client interactions, facilitated order processing, and enabled access to sales history and performance metrics. It was user-friendly, with real-time updates, seamlessly integrated with existing customer databases.
The result? Increase in productivity of the sales team and improved decision-making process. But most importantly, positive feedback from the customers themselves.
Developing PoC with Low Code for a Tour Operator
To efficiently gather, centralize, and manage data is a challenge for any tour operator. Our client was not an exception. The company was seeking to get an internal software that will source information from third-party APIs and automate the travel itinerary creation process. Preferably, cost- and user-friendly tool.
The scope of work
Our experts ensured the client that all the requirements could be covered by Retool. And just in 40 hours a new software was launched. The tool had a flexible and easy-to-use interface with user authentication and an access management system panel – all the company needed. At the end, Retool was considered the main tool to replace the existing system.
Testing New Generation of Lead Management Tool with Retool
Our client, a venture fund, had challenges with managing lead generation and client acquisition. As the company grew, it aimed to attract more clients and scale faster, as well as automate the processes to save time, improve efficiency and minimize human error. The idea was to craft an internal lead generation tool that will cover all the needs. We’ve agreed that Retool will be a perfect tool for this.
The scope of work
The project initially began as a proof of concept, but soon enough, with each new feature delivered, the company experienced increased engagement and value.
We developed a web tool that integrates seamlessly with Phantombuster for data extraction and LinkedIn for social outreach. Now, the company has a platform that elevates the efficiency of their lead generation activities and provides deep insights into potential client bases.
Building an Advanced Admin Portal for Streamlined Operations
Confronted with the need for more sophisticated internal tools, an owner of IP Licensing marketplace turned to Retool to utilize its administrative functions. The primary goal was to construct an advanced admin portal that could support complex, multi-layered processes efficiently.
The scope of work
Our client needed help with updating filters and tables for its internal platform. In just 30 hours we've been able to update and create about 6 pages. Following features were introduced: add complex filtering and search, delete records, styling application with custom CSS.
Together, we have increased performance on most heavy pages and fixed circular dependency issues.
Creating MVP Dashboard for Google Cloud Users
Facing the challenge of unoptimized cloud resource management, a technology firm working with Google Cloud users was looking for a solution to make its operations more efficient. The main idea of the project was to create an MVP for e-commerce shops to test some client hypotheses. Traditional cloud management tools fell short.
The scope of work
Determined to break through limitations, our team of developers turned Retool. We decided to craft an MVP Dashboard specifically for Google Cloud users. This wasn't just about bringing data into view; but about reshaping how teams interact with their cloud environment.
We designed a dashboard that turned complex cloud data into a clear, strategic asset thanks to comprehensive analytics, tailored metrics, and an intuitive interface, that Retool provides. As the results, an increase in operational efficiency, significant improvement in cost management and resource optimization.
Elevating CRM with Custom HubSpot Sales Dashboard
Our other client, a SaaS startup, that offers collaborative tools for design and engineering teams, was on a quest to supercharge their sales efforts. Traditional CRM systems were limited and not customizable enough. The company sought a solution that could tailor HubSpot to their workflow and analytics needs.
The scope of work
Charged with the task of going beyond standard CRM functions, our team turned to Retool. We wanted to redefine how sales teams interact with their CRM.
By integrating advanced analytics, custom metrics, and a user-friendly interface, our developers provided a solution that transformed data into a strategic asset.
In 40 hours, three informative dashboards were developed, containing the most sensitive data related to sales activities. These dashboards enable our customer to analyze sales and lead generation performance from a different perspective and establish the appropriate KPIs.
Building a PDF Editor with Low-Code
Our client, a leading digital credential IT startup, needed a lot of internal processes to be optimized. But the experience with low-code tools wasn’t sufficient. That’s why the company decided to hire professionals. And our team of developers joined the project.
The scope of work
The client has a program that designs and prints custom badges for customers. The badges need to be “mail-merged” with a person’s info and turned into a PDF to print. But what is the best way to do it?
Our developers decided to use Retool as a core tool. Using custom components and JavaScript, we developed a program that reduced employees' time for designing, putting the data, verifying, and printing PDF badges in one application.
As a result, the new approach significantly reduces the time required by the internal team to organize all the necessary staff for the conference, including badge creation.