What is Automation #
Automation is the process of reducing human input where ever possible for repetitive, time-sensitive, and processing-intense tasks where the likelihood of error is high.
This includes business process automation (BPA), IT automation, personal applications such as home automation, and more.
Automation is employed to minimize labor or to substitute humans in the most menial or repetitive tasks.
In WordPress, the term is often used synonymously with Integration. Connecting one or local or more processes.
Benefits #
The benefits include improved accuracy, reliability, increased productivity as well as improved employee morale.
Why use Automation? #
Automation is employed to minimize labor or to substitute humans in the most menial or repetitive tasks.
In the technology arena, it is increasing rapidly, both in the software/hardware and machine layer. The implementation of new artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and workflow automation are areas that are growing rapidly.
Types of Automation #
There are four types of automation systems: fixed automation, programmable automation, flexible automation, and integrated automation
Basic #
Basic automation takes simple, rudimentary tasks and automates them. This level of automation is about digitizing work by using tools to streamline and centralize routine tasks.
Two forms of basic automation are:
- business-process-management(BPM)
- Robotic process automation (RPA)
Process #
Process automation manages business processes for uniformity and transparency. It is typically handled by dedicated software and business apps. Using process automation can increase productivity and efficiency within your business. Examples are:
- Process mining
- Workflow automation
Integration #
Integration automation is where machines can mimic human tasks and repeat the actions once humans define the machine rules.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) #
The most complex level of automation is artificial intelligence (AI) automation. The addition of AI means that machines can “learn” and make decisions based on prior situations.
WordPress Integration #
Most WordPress automation is Basic RPA automation; however, some Business Process Automation (BPA) does exist.
Plugins are available to automate processes on your website and integrate with third-party automation platforms such as Zapier, IFTTT, Pabbly, and others which integrate your WordPress functions with external applications and services.
There are others that allow external applications and services to add and update information on WordPress sites.
