Robotic Process Automation - A Virtual Assistant for Inventory Management

Robotic process automation (RPA) is an emerging form of business process automation technology based on the notion of software robots or Artificial Intelligence (AI) workers. The term RPA can be split as Robotic representing an entity which is capable of being programmed by a computer for doing computer tasks, known as robot; Process signifying the sequence of actions taken in a logical order to achieve a particular end; and Automation suggesting the accomplishment of tasks without any human intervention. In RPA, bots are software programs which automate the routine tasks, and mimic human behavior with no change to the existing infrastructure. Intelligent Process Automation (IPA) enhances the cognitive abilities of software bots by bringing intelligence to them and paves the path for the software robots to mimic the way in which human brain works. In this context a research is undertaken to develop a virtual text to speech assistant bot that aids a manager who has the responsibility of managing inventory of items besides his varied other jobs. The customized software robot ensures that if the stock in the inventory of any item reaches reorder level, bots itself sends the message for re-ordering the necessary items through an email to the supplier. The study demonstrates that RPA can be a better substitute to a human being which can perform time intense and necessary activities more effectually.