Business process management (BPM) is a decades-old practice which is seeing renewed interest thanks to data-driven technologies . RPA, Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics help companies achieve a new level of operational efficiency, boost customer satisfaction, cut costs and improve the business bottom line. We suggest you should take a closer look into the following three BPM technology trends.

1. Robotic Process Automation

Similar to the aims of BPM technology as a broader concept, robotic process automation (or RPA) is intended to improve the productivity and efficiency of common business processes. In essence, RPA can take over tasks previously performed by humans, removing the human limitations that BPM often bumps up against.

RPA uses the same platforms, software and user interfaces that humans utilise to execute transactions. However, unlike humans, robots do not grow tired and do not take time off from work. Robots are also less likely to introduce errors into processes. So, when taking a holistic approach to managing business processes, companies can include the speed, productivity, and reliability introduced by RPA into the equation. Broadly speaking, RPA can quickly deliver large benefits wherever a business encounters repeated processes that are structured and well understood.

2. Artificial intelligence

BPM practitioners have long realised that digital processes can deliver outstanding returns. However, these digital processes can be dramatically improved by introducing intelligence into the way processes function. Artificial intelligence (AI) can, for example, be used to optimise processes during process design to ensure maximum efficiency and reliability.

By 2022, 75% of enterprises will embed intelligent automation into technology and process development, using AI-based software to discover operational and experiential insights to guide innovation, according to IDC.

AI technologies like natural language processing (NLP) can free up humans to focus on tasks that ultimately require human cognition, instead of getting stuck with tasks that can be performed by technological solutions. Furthermore, AI can offer predictive abilities, enabling processes to become more pro-active rather than merely reacting on data inputs. In essence, as with RPA, AI allows BPM decision makers more flexibility in the way processes are designed and managed.