Hyperautomation Is the New Challenge for Human Resources

Since the inception of mass production, automation system models have become a recurring topic in the industry as they help organizations become more efficient in the use of their resources, whether  technological, direct and indirect materials, financial, or human.

With the rapid growth of connectivity, communication, and information platforms, especially in recent years with the maturity of the internet for industrial applications, automation has found new pathways that previously belonged to the realm of science fiction.

We can define hyperautomation as the combination of different technologies and tools with the aim of expanding the possibilities of automating complex processes, while at the same time, increasing human potential.

Automation models now immersed in concepts like Industry 4.0 or under the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) open up new opportunities aimed at process optimization and a high degree of operational efficiency. This has created a new trend in the market called hyperautomation.

Gartner Research put the topic on the table in 2019 by identifying hyperautomation as one of the Top 10 technology trends of 2020, defining it as, "the application of advanced technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), to increasingly automate processes and empower humans. Hyperautomation extends across a range of tools that can be automated but also refers to the sophistication of automation (discovery, analysis, design, automate, measure, monitor, reassess)."

The development of hyperautomation considers various benefits, such as improved production goal compliance with lower risks, as well as increased productivity through the use of advanced analytics tools with instant and accurate information. However, it is worth highlighting that it emphasizes the human resources aspect, with a more educated workforce (upskilling and reskilling), a clear focus on teamwork, and consequently, more satisfied and motivated individuals.

Just the Beginning

Gartner Research presented a forecast of around US600 billion in investment in hyperautomation by 2022, which explains the significance of this phenomenon in the eyes of the firm and, of course, the industrial automation market.

Some technologies are already emerging as potential disruptors in the near future, such as machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), or advanced optical character recognition (OCR). Many of these new technologies are already well-known as they are massively available on smartphones. However, their application in industrial settings has vast development potential in specific applications and becomes immeasurable when used collectively for advanced automation processes.

Their utilization in robotic process automation (RPA) or under AI models will begin to embody a significant and increasingly accelerated evolutionary leap. Under the concept of hyperautomation, where human capabilities are considered a key factor in the equation, significant challenges arise that need to be considered. On the one hand, a large number of skilled personnel will be required, while on the other hand, job positions will become obsolete in this process. At this point, it is necessary to highlight that the objective of hyperautomation is not to replace the work of people but to serve them in order to enhance their efficiency and performance.

Systematic and Continuous

Hyperautomation must be viewed from a strategic perspective. Minsait sees this phenomenon with an End-to-End (E2E) approach, which involves combining technological platforms under a specific automation project plan, using digital operations toolboxes and the generation of augmented business processes. These processes are based on advanced analytics technologies and artificial intelligence.

The generation of intelligent business processes requires elements like predictive analytics, data mining processes, guided recommendations generation, and, importantly, the establishment of an adaptive or flexible decision-making framework. All of this relies on comprehensive software platforms, including Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), and Human Resources Management (HRM).

Hyperautomation represents a significant shift in the way organizations operate, as it allows for the automation of not only routine tasks but also complex and cognitive processes. This trend poses a new challenge for human resources departments, as they need to adapt to the changing landscape and find ways to leverage hyperautomation for their benefit.

While it brings numerous benefits, hyperautomation also presents a new frontier for human resources, because it also requires HR professionals to evolve and redefine their roles. By embracing this new challenge and leveraging the power of hyperautomation, HR departments can enhance their efficiency, make data-driven decisions, and focus on strategic initiatives that drive organizational success in the digital age.

This is a trend that is gaining strength and relevance. It is the unavoidable path for companies in their constant pursuit of competitiveness, operational efficiency, profitability, and sustainability. The human resource is not excluded, but like any transition, it will demand new ways of managing talent, such as leadership skill development, a human-centered approach, and significant challenges regarding attraction, training, and employee engagement.