Workflow automation is a relatively new practice that is taking the world of business by storm. Creating automated workflow processes can be difficult initially, but it gets easier with time. Many companies use dedicated workflow management software to help build an automated culture for their workplace.
There’s plenty of information out there on how to build an automated culture using workflow automation processes. However, a lot of this information is vague and confusing, making it difficult to get started from scratch.
With this in mind, here’s a complete guide to help you build an automated culture for your business.
Start By Automating Simple Processes
Workplace automation can be confusing, and it can take a while to get the hang of. A lot of people fall into the trap of trying to automate the most difficult processes in their workplace, rather than the simplest.
Think of learning how to automate workflow processes like learning how to swim or how to ride a bike. When you start out, you will probably lack confidence and feel a bit unsure of yourself. You need to take baby steps to start with; otherwise you will probably be overwhelmed and won’t do things right.
Choose Processes That Are Already Done Well
If you’ve never automated a workflow process before, you should start as simple as you can. Go for processes that are already well documented and that people understand. Automation shouldn’t change the process significantly, but should simply help speed it up and make it more efficient.
Below are a few examples of simple processes that could be automated in your workplace:
- Reimbursement requests usually involves a lot of paperwork and time. Using an automated workflow and digital forms can streamline the process, reducing the amount of time your employees spend on it.
- Service request processing can take a lot of time and effort to organise and keep on top of. This category encompasses everything from maintenance requests to transport arrangements, and it can be effectively managed using workflow automation.
Streamlining your company’s simple processes is the key developing the beginnings of an automated culture. You may feel resistance from your employees at the beginning, but they will get used to the new processes over time.
Consider Using a Business Process Management Platform
To do workflow automation right, you need to take advantage of the great software tools out there. Building your own automation is complex and hard to do. Many automated processes require the cooperation of multiple departments within the same company. If everyone doesn’t know their role and what they’re supposed to be doing, you can face problems.
One of the best ways to overcome these problems is by using a business process management (BPM) platform. BPM platforms are designed to streamline workflow processes and help you build a strong automated culture.
Using a BPM platform to build an automated workplace culture offers a lot of benefits, including the following:
- BPM platforms make people accountable. Manual processes often leave people unsure of their roles and what they’re supposed to do in certain situations. Automated processes make sure that everyone knows exactly what they’re supposed to do, and how to do it.
- BPM platforms let separate departments work together efficiently. You will find a lot less conflict between departments once everyone knows their role and how they can contribute to an automated process.
- High-quality BPM platforms allow quick and easy integration of new workflow processes and company procedures. This allows you and other employees to get more out of your time, maximising your efficiency.
It’s definitely worth exploring your options when it comes to BPM platforms. Different platforms are designed for different types of businesses, so you might have to look at a few before you find one that suits your needs.
Make Sure Your Employees Are on Board With Automated Processes
You will find that some of your employees will struggle to adapt to new workflow processes and an automated culture. It’s up to you to make sure that they understand what’s required of them and why they need to use the new system. People will make mistakes in the first few months, but it’s a good idea for you to emphasise the new processes and how important they are to the overall performance of your company.
You might find it useful to have a company meeting when you implement new automated workflow processes, to explain what they are and why you have decided to use them. Doing this will help build an automated culture and will ensure that all your employees are on board with your new processes.
Final Word
Building an automated culture isn’t something that you can do overnight. However, it’s worth putting the effort in and streamlining your workflow processes, because the long-term benefits will significantly outweigh any short-term costs.
Consider using a business process management platform to help create an automated culture in your workplace. Start by streamlining simple workflow processes and make sure that your employees understand why you’re changing things.
