RPA
RPA is a technology in which software robots replace repetitive computer tasks (input, copy, transfer) previously performed by humans.
RPA (Robotic Processing Automation) is a technology in which software robots perform repetitive tasks that humans used to do with a mouse and keyboard in a set order. It is not a physical robot, but a program running inside a computer, and can be likened to a digital office assistant that opens Excel every morning, copies numbers, and enters them into the system instead of a human.
It has been widely introduced in companies with the purpose of reducing labor costs and mistakes by automating standardized repetitive tasks in finance, accounting, and human resources departments. Recently, by combining AI with RPA, which only followed set rules, it has evolved into intelligent automation that understands document content and judges exception situations.
However, RPA is prone to stopping when the screen configuration or work procedures change, causing a maintenance burden, and it is difficult to apply it to unstructured tasks that require judgment.
✅ Why it matters
- Reduces time and labor costs by automating repetitive input, copy, and transmission tasks
- Increases work accuracy by eliminating simple human errors
- Barrier to entry is low as it can be introduced without changing the existing system
⚠️ Limits and debates
- If the screen or work procedure changes, it malfunctions and requires continuous maintenance
- Unable to handle exceptions outside of established rules on its own
- The development of AI agents is reshaping the position of traditional RPA.