Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Robotic Process Automation, is a technology that allows the automation of repetitive, rule-based tasks through the use of software or “robots”.
These robots are capable of performing some human actions, such as entering data, processing transactions and communicating with other systems, without the need for human intervention.
Gartner research predicts that by 2025, 90% of RPA vendors will offer process-based automation. artificial intelligence. This indicates a growing trend in integrating RPA with generative AI and large language models (LLM) such as ChatGPT.
For the supply chain, the main benefits of this integration are accuracy in demand forecasting, optimization of logistics processes and personalization in the relationship with suppliers and customers.
In the context of the purchasing area, process automation, through the use of RPA, increases team efficiency, as it frees buyers to focus on more strategic activities, such as market analysis and negociação.
Furthermore, implementing RPA in the sector's routine reduces errors in manual processes, makes data and information more transparent and traceable, thus strengthening the actions of purchasing compliance.
Agility in purchasing processes is also one of the benefits of RPA technology. With automation, companies can respond more quickly to market changes and customer needs.
In the competitive environment of B2B business, the ability to respond quickly and efficiently is a major competitive advantage.
How does robotic process automation enhance human performance?
The application of robotic process automation (RPA) in the purchasing area not only increases the efficiency of the sector, but also positively impacts the performance of the entire team.
One of the most common myths is that the use of robots will completely replace human activities. In fact, RPA technology will increasingly enrich the work of purchasing professionals.
While RPA can automate repetitive, rules-based tasks, this technology cannot replicate the creativity and strategic decision-making capabilities that people bring to procurement.
The ability to analyze diverse scenarios, build relationships with Providers and making decisions based on a deep understanding of the market and the needs of companies are intrinsically human qualities.
Additionally, to ensure that robots are performing as expected, implementing and managing RPA usage requires human oversight.
In this sense, buyers play a fundamental role in configuring pre-defined parameters, in accordance with the company's objectives – information that only professionals in the area have –, in monitoring the technology's performance and making necessary adjustments.
This interaction between humans and robots highlights the value of human expertise in maximizing the potential of process automation.
By taking over operational tasks, technology allows procurement professionals to focus on higher-value activities such as strategic supplier development and sustainability and innovation in purchases.
The use of RPA in the sector's routine not only improves the efficiency of purchasing processes, but also provides opportunities for growth and professional development for buyers. In addition, the dynamics of commercial relationships will increasingly require behavioral skills identified as necessary for the purchasing professional of the future.
Therefore, far from replacing human work, robotic process automation (RPA) in the purchasing area will act as a facilitator, enhancing human capabilities and freeing professionals to dedicate themselves to more strategic and high-impact tasks.
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