For years now many columnist thought Robotic Process Automation (RPA) had the potential to replace Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies. RPA was supposed to be the next best thing when it comes to businesses getting more done for less money. Having computer software performing repetitive tasks that previously required an administrative employee has impacted the BPO industry in a surprisingly different way.
BPO companies by no means feel to be in competition with RPA and are actually reaping the benefits of the technology. Automating back office processes is what outsourcing is all about and RPA technology allow BPO’s to handle a much larger workload. RPA can not replace the BPO industry because outsourcing is an exchange of business services where one company pays another to do something. RPA can however assist companies in completing those processes that may or may not be outsourced.
Outsourcing companies are well known for their expertise in managing people and processes. Handling massive amounts of transactions in the most efficient way is how the BPO industry has become so successful. RPA addresses the need for BPO companies to continuously seek innovative ways to gain a competitive advantage by completing processes more accurately, in less time and at less cost. BPO companies have greatly benefited by using RPA technology to create their virtual workforce.
BPO’s will continue to implement RPA technology into their available services and reap the benefits. Outsourcing is all about cutting costs, freeing up in-house employees and increasing efficiency so RPA was really a no-brainer for the BPO industry. While RPA has definitely made some changes in the outsourcing industry it has so far been quite welcoming by BPO companies.