By 2026, over 80% of large enterprises will utilize a combination of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and low-code platforms to optimize business processes. This Gartner forecast highlights the growing need for tools that not only automate routine operations but also allow for rapid adaptation of business logic to changing conditions. Complex Business Process Management (BPM) processes, spanning multiple departments, integrating with diverse systems, and involving dynamic execution conditions, demand a flexible and efficient approach that merges robotic capabilities with rapid application development.
Evolution of business process automation
Traditional automation approaches often face limitations in implementation speed and scalability. Developing custom solutions for each new process is costly and time-consuming. RPA enables the automation of repetitive, rule-based tasks by mimicking human actions within user interfaces. However, RPA bots can be fragile to changes in interfaces or business rules, and their functionality is limited by existing applications. Low-code platforms, conversely, provide visual tools for rapid development and deployment of full-fledged applications, allowing the creation of new interfaces, data integration, and implementation of complex business logic without extensive coding.
Synergy of RPA and low-code: architecture and benefits
The combination of RPA and low-code creates a powerful mechanism for automating complex BPM processes. In this synergy, RPA can perform routine tasks such as data collection from legacy systems, information entry, or interaction with web portals, while the low-code platform handles the orchestration of these robots, business logic management, creation of user interfaces for human interaction, and integration with corporate systems (ERP, CRM, etc.) via APIs. This leads to the following advantages:
- Accelerated development: Low-code enables rapid creation of new applications and adaptation of existing processes.
- Flexibility and adaptability: Easy modification of business rules and process logic.
- Cost reduction: Optimization of resource utilization and reduced implementation time.
- Enhanced integration: Low-code platforms provide robust integration mechanisms.
- Scalability: The ability to extend automation to new processes and departments.
Key application scenarios
The combination of RPA and low-code is particularly effective in scenarios requiring automation of processes with a high degree of interaction between systems and people, as well as those demanding rapid response to changes:
- Order processing automation: RPA can collect data from various sources (email, web forms), while the low-code platform manages approval logic, integration with ERP and CRM, and customer notifications.
- Human Resources (HR) process management: From hiring to termination, RPA can automate document and data collection, while low-code manages complex approval workflows, report generation, and employee interactions.
- Financial operations: Automation of account reconciliation, payment processing, and financial reporting. RPA handles incoming data, while low-code ensures verification and integration with banking systems.
- Document management: RPA can extract data from unstructured documents, while a low-code platform, such as Scriptum.DMS, manages their lifecycle, routing, and storage.
Member company solutions and technologies
Members of the Intecracy Group technology alliance actively leverage the synergy of RPA and low-code to address complex BPM challenges. InBase, the developer of the open-source low-code platform UnityBase, forms the foundation for many of the alliance’s solutions. Built on UnityBase, Scriptum is a low-code BPM platform that allows for the rapid creation and adaptation of business processes of any complexity. Scriptum.DMS from InBase, also built on UnityBase, integrates AI capabilities for intelligent document management, which can be augmented by RPA bots for automated data input from various sources.
Softengi specializes in custom enterprise software development, including AI systems and AI agents. Their expertise in developing AI solutions like bidXplore, salesXplore, and solveXplore enables the integration of intelligent components into BPM processes managed by low-code platforms. Softengi can also utilize the Scriptum low-code platform within enterprise automation contexts, complementing it with RPA for handling large volumes of routine operations.
IQusion provides IT services and solutions for the public sector, including BPMN system implementation. In collaboration with InBase, IQusion can execute comprehensive document management and BPM automation projects, using the Scriptum platform to build flexible and scalable solutions. Data Management IG, specializing in system integration and process automation, implements Megapolis.DocNet and other enterprise solutions, ensuring the integration of low-code platforms and RPA tools with clients’ existing IT infrastructure.
The integration of RPA and low-code is not merely a trend but a necessity for companies aiming to remain competitive amidst constant change. Leveraging these technologies allows for not only automation but also optimization of business processes, ensuring flexibility, scalability, and a significant reduction in the time required for implementing new solutions. When selecting an automation strategy, it is crucial to consider the specifics of the processes, the existing infrastructure, and the potential for future growth, seeking guidance from experts with experience in the combined application of these technologies.
