What is an Automation Consultant

The Role of an Automation Consultant

Since the team from Alterior Digital comes from an automation background, we decided to write a post on The Role of an Automation Consultant. Unless you have someone in-house who specializes and is versed in different tools, it is important to have someone with experience handling these types of integrations. Not only will you save yourself from massive headaches, but you will also be saving something that you will never get back, which is your time. Okay, let's begin.

Role and Responsibilities

Definition of an Automation Consultant

Understand and Analyze Business Processes

Automation consultants tend to have a very technical background and like to get all the variables and piece things together; they do a deep dive into the business to understand what makes it tik. So, understanding the intricacies of existing workflows, identifying the inefficiencies, and comprehending the overarching goals and objectives of the business are some of the first things that need to be done before starting.

Keep in mind that each business process is unique; therefore, a tailored approach to understanding these processes ensures that the automation solutions are custom-fit and effective. For the most part, there will be some templated work that can be used. However, that is only the foundation and should be molded to fit the client's business. If a business automation consultant is trying to use the same template for your business, we personally see that as a red flag.

Identify Automation Opportunities

Once they thoroughly understand the business processes, the automation consultant will start pinpointing different business areas where automation can benefit greatly. This identification is not arbitrary; it involves a meticulous evaluation of repetitive, time-consuming tasks that are prone to human error or crucial for maintaining competitive advantage.

A lot of collaboration with the stakeholders is required; understanding the qualitative aspect is important, not just the quantitative part. During this process, we recommend a process flow for the entire business from beginning to end. Once completely mapped out, it is easy to identify where the bottlenecks of the business are and what tools would benefit most. We recommend using tools like Lucidchart of Miro to assist with creating the process flow.

Recommendation of Automation Tools and Solutions

Ok, so once the mapping process is completed, the automation consultant will provide certain recommendations that fit the business objectives and trajectory. We will focus on the no code automation tools that are circulating the market now. A lot of you know of Zapier; if not, we hyperlinked it so you can take a look at that product. That said, we prefer Make.com as of right now. We see the integration of no code automation tools as something that will be, in some way or form, integrated into small businesses, that is, if they want to get a competitive advantage.

If you've been keeping up with our blogs, you will know that we have knowledge of traditional code; however, after experience with no code automation tools, there is just no going back. It is extremely user-friendly, and the learning curve for these tools is very small. One major reason we recommend the integration of these tools is that if, at any given point in time, you, as the business owner, decide to part ways with our no code automation services, you are able to take care of it yourself...of course, with some practice. That said, most business owners want to focus on value-added activities that will bring in more revenue rather than learning the technical background.

Design and implement automation workflows

Once the requirements are gathered, the next phase involves designing and implementing automation workflows. At this point, the automation consultant should be providing another process flow with the suggested integration of tools. Further, provide insight as to how these tools will make the company more efficient. Providing how efficient a company is going to be after the integration is more of an art than a science, however, it is possible for the automation consultant to provide some pro forma numbers so the client gets an idea of what to expect.

This stage often involves iterative testing and refinement to ensure that the automation processes are efficient and error-free. It's crucial to get the design right, as it determines the effectiveness of the automation in real-world scenarios.

Benefits of Hiring an Automation Consultant

Operational Efficiency

Improves of Data Accuracy

One of the most critical benefits of hiring an automation consultant is the significant improvement in accuracy and reduction in human error. Manual processes are prone to mistakes, but automation minimizes these risks.

Think of automation as a simple "Yes" or "No" type of system. If certain parameters are met, then do this; otherwise, do that. Seems simple right? That's because it is. Automation is just what you have in your head put down on paper. The "complicated" part is making sure that the code or no code automation follows a certain path based on different parameters. Hope that made sense.

Focus on Higher-Value Tasks

Automation takes over routine, time-consuming tasks, which allows employees to concentrate on work that adds more value to the organization. Instead of spending hours on data entry or report generation, employees can engage in strategic planning, innovation, and customer interaction. This not only enhances job satisfaction but also drives business growth.

You have no idea how time-consuming it is to do the same repetitive task over and over again...well, maybe you do, and if so, then you know in your gut that there has to be a way to automate this or that, right? For the most part, there is; before going custom or a traditional route with code, give no code automation a shot; you will be surprised that it could handle, for the most part, all the things you are thinking about; the best part is it is at a fraction of the cost.

Cost Savings

Reduces Operational Costs

Business process automation consulting directly impacts the bottom line by reducing operational costs. Automating manual tasks cuts down the number of hours employees need to spend on these activities, thereby reducing labor costs. Additionally, automation systems often work faster than human hands, leading to expedited project timelines and financial savings.

Maintain Workforce

Implementing automation means organizations can optimize the use of their existing workforce. Rather than hiring additional employees to manage growing workloads, businesses can rely on automated systems to handle increased tasks efficiently. This approach minimizes recruitment and training expenses, making it a financially sound strategy.

Decreases Downtime and Manual Errors

Manual errors can lead to significant downtime as issues are identified and corrected. This reduced error rate ensures that operations continue smoothly, minimizing downtime and enhancing productivity.

Conclusion

We hope you are starting to get the picture here. Do not let's the title "Automation Consultant" discourage you from engaging with one just because you think it might be costly. Remember, if you start with no code automation tools, it is more cost effective and it can get the same thing done as traditional platform. If you want to learn more we will leave you our previous blog so you can get a better understanding about no code automation. That said, If you want to explore this type of automation, let's hop on a call.

Relevant Post: No Code Automation and No Code Automation Tools