The Future of Business Process Automation with Low Code Platforms🚀
The new year brings with it a burst of fresh resolutions, process spring cleaning, and strategy huddles. However, no matter what industry or quarter you find yourself in, the need for efficiency and greater productivity is always going to be important. As enterprises grapple with the shifting landscape of modern commerce, one solution is steadily gaining traction: business process automation (BPA) through low code platforms. Now, it might seem like a mouthful, but the rise of low code brings BPA within reach of non-tech leaders, and opens the door to a world of efficiency that only big brands enjoyed before.
Here’s why you need it to know, how to get it, and what to look out for.
The Challenges of Manual Processes
For many business owners, sales managers, and staff, the daily grind is often bogged down by manual, mundane tasks. The only thing ‘quick’ about managing records in spreadsheets, processing orders, generating quotes and tracking sales activities is how old it becomes. Let alone how time-consuming and error-prone it is. These admin-heavy processes not only sap productivity but also leave little room for strategic thinking and growth. The result? A business that's always playing catch-up with its own operational needs.
So, What is Business Process Automation?
Business process automation (BPA) is when technology enables the automation of complex business processes that currently require manual human intervention. So, the thing that would take you three hours to do, if you remember, is now done quickly, quietly, and efficiently in the background.
No errors. No sick leave. No gripes or complaints.
Why is this good? It streamlines operations, reduces manual effort, and makes sure that every area of the business functions more smoothly, efficiently, and reliably. This allows more to get done, and also creates a differentiator through an improved and consistent experience.
BPA tools automate routine tasks, reduce errors, and allow companies to allocate their resources where they're most needed – in critical thinking, profitable activities, and strategic decision-making.
Examples of Business Process Automation
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Various systems ‘talk to each other’ and automatically update customer information in CRM databases. This includes entries from contact forms, tracking customer interactions, and updating sales records.
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Using some basic inputs, quotes can be generated in seconds, sent through a managed review and approval process, and finally onto the client for their digital feedback. Accepted quotes can then trigger additional actions.
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Manage your leads without lifting a finger. After capturing basic details, automations can then interact with prospects, and leverage any engagement to prompt the next action allowing for improved conversion without additional effort.
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Software schedules and sends communications to customers and prospects via email, WhatsApp or SMS. This covers newsletters, welcome messages, and follow-ups based on customer actions.
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Systems generate, send, and track invoices. They also send automatic payment reminders and update financial systems upon receiving payments.
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Chatbots and AI handle common customer queries and issues, provide responses quickly, and escalate complex issues to human staff.
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Systems monitor stock levels and automatically place orders when inventory falls below a certain threshold, after running through an internal approval process.
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Online systems allow customers to book appointments in available time-slots, updating the calendars of both the customer and the service provider automatically.
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Systems streamline and automate workflow and notifications for expense approvals, time-off requests, and project sign-offs.
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The onboarding process for new employees automates form distribution, training session scheduling, and task completion tracking.
The Low Code Revolution
Revolution is a strong word. But, in this instance, it works.
When it comes to business process automation, low code platforms have emerged as the true heroes, the game-changers. Here’s why.
It is easy to fathom how much time, money, resources, and brand reputation all of that automation listed above can save a company. It is good for business, it is great for the bottom line.
But getting that kind of automation, integration, and streamlined productivity usually demands a vast budget.
This is why business owners and sales executives partner with a trusted, local low code agency.
Agencies like riivo use low code platforms for a faster and more affordable way to build and deploy customised automation solutions than traditional development methods.
This levels the playing field between big brands with big IT budgets, and smaller business owners and sales teams who are hungry to grow.
This democratisation of app development means that solutions leave the workshop quicker, are tailored to specific needs, and easily updated as those needs evolve.
riivo: Local Expertise in the Low Code Sector
In the relatively mature world of IT and software development, low code is a rapidly developing toddler. For this reason, expertise matters.
riivo has been here from the start in South Africa and the UK. We come with a rich history in low-code development and bring a wealth of experience and understanding to the table.
We've seen firsthand the evolution of low code technology and have honed our skills in delivering solutions that meet the complex demands of modern businesses.
Looking Ahead
In 2024, low code platforms are not just about building applications; they're about transforming business operations. By automating mundane tasks, companies can focus on growth and innovation. Sales managers can access real-time data and insights, enabling them to make informed decisions swiftly. Business owners can oversee operations with a newfound clarity, free from the clutter of disjointed processes.
As we look to the future, the role of low code platforms in business process automation is set to grow exponentially. Low code solutions offer a bridge between the present challenges and a future where efficiency, productivity, and innovation go hand in hand. For businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve, embracing low code solutions for process automation is not just an option; it's a strategic imperative.
For those ready to embark on this journey, the potential for transformation is limitless.