Automation platform
Automation platform definition
An automation platform is a system or tool that can automatically handle, control, and simplify different tasks and processes all by itself. It takes over the jobs that people used to do manually, making things faster, more efficient, and more accurate.
An automation platform works following set rules and steps to do tasks that people used to do. This could be anything from straightforward tasks like sending automated emails, to more complicated stuff like looking after customer information or testing software.
See also: hyperautomation
Automation platform examples
More well known automation platforms include Microsoft Power Automate, which helps automate repetitive tasks, and HubSpot, which automates marketing activities. There’s also UiPath, a platform used for Robotic Process Automation which can handle business tasks and processes.
Advantages of using automation platforms
Using an automation platform can save a lot of time, allowing businesses to focus on more important, strategic work. It can also improve accuracy by reducing the chances of human error while working 24/7 and keeping processes running smoothly even outside of regular working hours.
Disadvantages of using automation platforms
Setting up an automation platform costs time and money. Plus, not every job is suitable for automation — tasks that require human judgment, creativity, or personal touch may still need to be done by people. There’s also a risk of over-reliance on automation, which could cause problems if the platform ever goes down or encounters a bug.