Top 3 Tools for Hyper-automation
Automation goes beyond text generation and scheduled publishing. I mean how do you automate processes like monthly financial statements for thousands of customers in a bank or send medical reports to hundreds of patients? What tools can you use to automate such tasks and more complex ones?
Implementing automation begins with simple solutions for tasks like text generation, data entry and invoicing, etc. Over time, AI is integrated to handle more complex decision-making and analysis tasks. These complex tasks require a higher level of automation called hyper-automation. A detailed guide on how to get started with hyper-automation for your enterprise can be found here (insert link to enterprise hyper-automation). Adopting hyper-automation for complex processes in your enterprise requires that you implement tools that are capable enough for the “big jobs”. So what should you look out for in a hyper-automation tool?
Criteria for Selecting a Hyper-automation Tool for your Enterprise
When sourcing for a hyperautomation tool, the first criterion to look out for is the compatibility of the tool. I mean the tool should seamlessly integrate with the current IT infrastructure, including legacy systems, databases, and third-party applications. This would ensure that automation workflows can be implemented without the need for a complete system overhaul, reducing disruption and implementation time.
Also, the tool should be scalable and flexible. This means as your enterprise needs grow, the tool is able to accommodate the growth. A good hyperautomation tool allows users to easily automate more complex processes over time, without requiring extensive customization or development. It should also offer flexibility in terms of deployment—whether on-premises, cloud, or hybrid—so it can adapt to different operational requirements.
Lastly, the tool must be usable. Since it is meant to automate complex processes, it shouldn't bring more complexity rather it should follow the KISS principle i.e Keeping It Simple and Stupid. The tool must have a user-friendly interface that allows both technical and non-technical staff to design, monitor, and manage automated workflows. This includes drag-and-drop features for process mapping, as well as analytics to measure performance and ROI.
Additionally, robust governance, security, and compliance features are essential to ensure that automated processes follow regulatory guidelines and that data is securely handled throughout the automation lifecycle.
There are lots of automation tools out there that can perform hyper-automation following the above stated criteria but then, it is better to go for a test and trusted tool.
Top 3 Tools for Achieving Hyper-automation in an Enterprise Setup
Activepieces
Activepieces is a no-code automation tool known for automating processes and streamlining workflows. It is open source with an interactive user interface that makes automation easy for both technical and non-technical employees. Activepieces allows you to automate over a 1000 workflows for absolutely free. This can be either individual projects or team collaborations.
When it comes to compatibility, Activepieces can be deployed seamlessly On-prem or on the cloud. The On-prem deployment gives you total charge of your configuration and other security settings. The fact that Activepieces' doesn't conflict with internal infrastructure is what sets it apart from other tools in the market. It also contains a library of existing software like Gmail, Slack, Trello, Salesforce and other applications that can be integrated into your workflow using webhook and other methods.
Activepieces comes in three tiers; Free Plan, Premium, Embedded. For each of the plans, there is a full customer service support ensuring that you have a guide every step of the way;from deployment to usage.
The good thing is Activepieces is regularly being updated as the contributors always add usable features.
Workato
Workato is an automation platform designed to help businesses streamline their workflows and connect various applications and systems. It offers a user-friendly interface that allows both technical and non-technical users to create complex integrations and automate business processes across multiple departments and functions. Workato boasts of an extensive array of features, including a vast library of pre-built connectors for popular applications, a drag-and-drop interface for creating custom integrations, and advanced automation capabilities powered by artificial intelligence. Workato also provides real-time monitoring and analytics, enabling users to track the performance of their integrations and automations. Additionally, it offers robust security measures, including data encryption and compliance with various industry standards.
Workato's benefits include significant time and cost savings through automation of repetitive tasks, improved data accuracy by reducing manual data entry, and enhanced collaboration across teams and departments. The platform's flexibility allows businesses to adapt quickly to changing needs and scale their automation efforts as they grow. Unlike Activepieces that offers a free plan,Workato operates on a subscription-based model, with different tiers available to suit various business sizes and needs.
Zapier
Zapier is a popular web-based automation tool that enables users to connect and integrate various web applications and services without requiring coding knowledge. It acts as a bridge between different apps, allowing users to create automated workflows called "Zaps" that trigger actions in one app based on events in another. Zapier's primary goal is to help individuals and businesses save time and increase productivity by automating repetitive tasks and data transfer between applications.
Zapier offers a wide range of features to facilitate easy and powerful automation. Users can create multi-step Zaps with conditional logic, allowing for complex workflows. The platform provides templates for common integrations, making it easy for beginners to get started. Advanced features include the ability to create custom apps using Zapier's developer platform, webhooks for connecting to any API, and the option to use code for more intricate automations. Zapier also offers team collaboration features, allowing multiple users to work on and manage Zaps together.
The benefits of using Zapier include significant time savings through automation of repetitive tasks, improved efficiency in data management and transfer between applications, and the ability to create powerful integrations without technical expertise. Zapier's extensive app library means users can often find solutions for their specific needs, regardless of the tools they use. As for pricing, Zapier offers a tiered pricing model, starting with a free plan that includes basic features and a limited number of Zaps. Paid plans offer more Zaps, advanced features, and faster update times. While specific pricing details are not provided in the prompt, Zapier typically offers plans suitable for individual users, small teams, and larger enterprises, with costs increasing based on the number of tasks and features required.
Unlike Activepieces that is very user-friendly, Zapier requires some technical expertise to be able to use it, especially the advanced features. It also does not offer fully on-prem capabilities as it always connects the system to a third party. You definitely do not need your enterprise data all over the place.