What are the Differences between Cognitive Computing and Robotic Process Automation?

Traditional RPA or, robotic process learning is a rule-based endeavor that aims at the completion of a physical task, such as assembling a piece of equipment, handling hazardous materials and so on. Conversely, Cognitive Computing (CC) is a process that depends on machine learning. CC aims to impart skills and give direction to the system via visual or linguistic means.

RPA Works With Simple Tasks

Robotic Process Automation is based on the completion of simple tasks. It is the type of computing that runs the automated arms we see on assembly lines and in high school science labs. These machines operated by command line software which the computer executes in an ordinary way in order to accomplish simple mechanical tasks. This is the same type of computing that runs just about every computerized device we encounter on a day to day basis.

CC Has Limited Cognitive Abilities

CC can deal with natural language, judgment, and reasoning. It has a foundational toolkit built into it that enables it to interact with humans in a more fluid and natural manner. More importantly, because CC has a learning and knowledge base that is more akin to that which humans rely on, we are better able to deploy these technologies to answer questions and tackle problems that relate directly to human endeavors. When it comes to marketing, and customer relations, CC is the way of the future.

RPA is Dependent on Engineers

Because RPA is strictly rule-based, it can only do what it is programmed to do. For instance, if you have a mechanical hand that is expected to move a cup from one location to another, a slight miscalculation will direct the arm to drop the cup on the floor. The user cannot simply “tell” the machine to redirect its movement a few inches to the left. Rather, a software engineer must go into the programming and alter the rules that the machine follows. CC, conversely, can alter its behavior based on verbal direction.

RPA is Full “Hands-On”

The technology that makes CC what it is allows the user to direct it using language, and it can learn and make decisions on its own. Robotic Process Automation is just the opposite. Its programming can only be interacted with by a programmer who knows how to rewrite the code and is willing to take the time to do so.

RPA Has Less Language Utilization Capacity than CC

Robotic Process Automation is working toward language-based capabilities. But this must be programmed into the system. This is a process that takes an exorbitant amount of time and is far from user-friendly. Conversely, CC can be directed and controlled by users in any profession by simply utilizing the built-in linguistic processing capabilities of the system.

CC Learns Based on Cognitive & Linguistic Principles

Cognitive computing relies on the naturalistic knowledge base that human beings add to the process. It uses logical principles, guided by symbols rendered in speech or text to alter its behavior. In other words, Cognitive Computing systems are systems that you can talk to. They can do a significant amount of work and reasoning independently, and they take direction from the average user.