Without knowing the definitions of Robotic Process Automation and Traditional Automation, it is hard to understand the differences between them. Let’s start with the definitions:
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is a software that is used to automate a high volume of repetitive and rule-based tasks. RPA tools allow users to design and deploy software robots that can mimic human actions. These tools also utilize pre-defined activities and business rules to autonomously execute a combination of tasks, transactions, and processes across software systems. RPA can deliver the desired result without human interaction.
On the other side, Traditional Automation is the automation of any repeated tasks. It combines application integration at a database or infrastructure level. It requires minimal human intervention.
Let’s understand the differences between these two:
| Robotic Process Automation | Traditional Automation |
|---|---|
| It does not require any modification in the existing systems or infrastructure. | It requires certain customizations in the existing IT infrastructure. |
| It can automate the repetitive, rule-based tasks. It mimics human actions to complete the tasks. | It does not include the ability to mimic human actions. It only executes the pre-defined programmatic instructions. |
| A user can start using RPA without knowing any programming. RPA allows automation with easy to use flowchart diagram. Therefore, users do not require to remember language syntax and scripting. They only need to focus on the functionalities given under automation. | Users are required to have the programming skills to use Traditional Automation for automating functionalities. Programming language requirement depends upon the type of automation tool. Users need to remember language syntax and scripting. |
| RPA provides the easy and quick implementation. It requires less amount of time as RPA software is process-driven. | Traditional Automation can take several months for implementation. Test designing and feasibility studies take a longer time. |
| RPA allows users to assign work to hundreds or thousands of virtual machines that can perform the allotted tasks without the requirement of physical machines. | On the other hand, Traditional Automation uses different programming techniques to achieve parallel execution or scalability. Physical machines are required to perform parallel execution. Those physical machines should have the capability of providing good processing speed. |
| RPA can be configured to meet the requirements of a particular user. It can be combined with several applications (e.g., calendar, e-mail, ERP, CRM, etc.) to synchronize information and create automated replies. | When it comes to customization, Traditional Automation is considered as a critical and complex technology compared to the RPA. The integration of different systems with Traditional Automation is a challenge due to the limitations of APIs. |
| RPA can be a little costly in the initial phase. But it saves a lot of time, money, and effort in the long run. | Traditional Automation is cheaper in the initial phase. However, it costs a lot more in the long run. |
| RPA is a more efficient option since it can make improvements instantly. | Traditional Automation requires more time, effort, and a considerable workforce. |
| With RPA, users can easily update any business flow due to its simplicity. | On the other hand, Traditional Automation may force users to change various scripts. Hence, maintenance and updation of this technology can be tough. |