Introduction (Quick overview of what the book will cover, chapter-by-chapter)
Part 1: Understanding the Fundamentals
Chapter 1: RPA Foundations
Goal: Provide a high-level overview of RPA, such as with the definitions of key terms, the history of the industry and the overall pros/cons.
Chapter 2: Why RPA?
Goal: This chapter takes a detailed look at the main benefits of RPA and how the technology can signficantly improve the productivity of a company. There will also be a look at several use cases.
Chapter 3: Implementing RPA
Goal: Provide a look at the best practices and guidelines for implementing RPA within an organization. The focus will be on showing the step-by-step process for a successful deployment – from initial concept to the management of the system once it is installed. There will also be a look at using tools for the IT assessment and integration as well as bringing on consultants to help map out the workflow processes.
Part 2: The RPA Software Vendors
Note: Each chapter will have a profile of a top vendor in RPA: UIPath, Automation Anywhere, Blue Prism, Kofax, Pegasystems, Kyron and NTT-AT (this list is based on the marketshare analysis from Gartner).
Goal: For each profile, there will be a look at the company’s background (founders, funding, backers and timeline) and a look at the core platform capabilities. There will also be a look at the pros/cons of the technology, backed up by specific use cases.
Chapter 4: UiPath
Chapter 5: Automation Anywhere
Chapter 6: Blue Prism
Chapter 7: Kofax
Chapter 8: Pegasystems
Chapter 9: Kyron
Chpater 10: NTT-AT
Part 3: Getting the Max From RPA
Chapter 11: Evaluating An RPA System
Goal: This chapter will be a recap of what’s covered in the book, going over the main takeaways. There will also be a look at how to evaluate an RPA system.
Appendix: Links to blogs, videos & websites
Glossary
Tom Taulli has been developing software since the 1980s. In college, he started his first company, which focused on the development of e-learning systems. He created other companies as well, including Hypermart.net that was sold to InfoSpace in 1996. Along the way, Tom has written columns for online publications such as BusinessWeek.com, TechWeb.com, and Bloomberg.com. He also writes posts on Artificial Intelligence for Forbes.com and is the adviser to various companies in the space. You can reach Tom on Twitter (@ttaulli) or through his website (Taulli.com) where he has an online course on AI.
While Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has been around for about 20 years, it has hit an inflection point because of the convergence of cloud computing, big data and AI. This book shows you how to leverage RPA effectively in your company to automate repetitive and rules-based processes, such as scheduling, inputting/transferring data, cut and paste, filling out forms, and search.
Using practical aspects of implementing the technology (based on case studies and industry best practices), you’ll see how companies have been able to realize substantial ROI (Return On Investment) with their implementations, such as by lessening the need for hiring or outsourcing. By understanding the core concepts of RPA, you’ll also see that the technology significantly increases compliance – leading to fewer issues with regulations – and minimizes costly errors.
RPA software revenues have recently soared by over 60 percent, which is the fastest ramp in the tech industry, and they are expected to exceed $1 billion by the end of 2019. It is generally seamless with legacy IT environments, making it easier for companies to pursue a strategy of digital transformation and can even be a gateway to AI. The Robotic Process Automation Handbook puts everything you need to know into one place to be a part of this wave.
You will:
Develop the right strategy and plan
Deal with resistance and fears from employees
Take an in-depth look at the leading RPA systems, including where they are most effective, the risks and the costs