For years now, people have been talking about how high-functioning computers would take over the world—a SciFi thriller where tries to fight back against masses of robotic armies, machines trying to eliminate human existence. The notion of a completely automated society and workplace certainly seemed far-fetched 10 or 15 years ago and, in my opinion is still rather off-the-wall. When news anchors and columnists refer to automated computers taking over our jobs, they are sensationalizing the idea that computer automation will devalue human employment. On the contrary, I argue that process automation does quite the opposite—automation eliminates non-value-added work in order to highlight one’s particularly valuable and important human skills. Skills that would be exceedingly hard to replace by machines.
The specific value businesses get out of automated processes is not just in efficiency. It also goes beyond cost-savings. Rather, the tangible value that automation gives to a business is in increasing the perceived value of their workforce. Automation is meant to reduce employees’ time spent on simple tasks while increasing their time engaged in higher order thinking.
Automation doesn’t undercut talent—it inspires it. Think of some of the world’s fastest growing businesses as case studies. Uber- the world’s fastest growing and largest taxi company— owns no vehicles — has used automation to highlight the value of local drivers. Facebook—the world’s most popular media site—inspires new content every millisecond—again, automated process. This list continues.
Automation is not simply for the mega-corporations or startups recruiting the smartest tech minds. There are many real world examples of how automation can grow your business and develop your people. Whether you are an accounting firm, established law firm, local merchant, or , you should see automation as a way to free up yours and your workers’ crowded days—of doing the mundane basics—. And imagine with more automation in your business: more time spent strategically thinking about helping clients save money, increase revenue, getting your products valued and appreciated by a growing customer-base.
The use of computer automation to make a high functioning enterprise is completely doable. The important part in preparing our workforces for automation comes with the need to make them trust a new system. Focus on the bigger picture of how automation adds increasing value to their daily accomplishments.
For more information on how emerging technologies can revolutionize your business, please give me a call. Let me help you find where and how process automation can make your team realize their human potential.
