Robotic Process Automation RPA
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is a generic type of software that facilitates or automates robots to perform a variety of repetitive tasks, these tasks can be manual or digital such as data extraction, form filling, file movement etc. The robots designing to deal with software or data issues are usually referred to as bots, that can learn to mimic human actions and interact with applications, systems, and workflows.
Practical tasks such as the management of payroll, timesheets, attendance, recruiting, onboarding, and offboarding can be carried out by bots, but they now can also interpret text, engage in chats, and understand unstructured data. Three types of RPA, include attended, unattended, and hybrid depending on their autonomy, such bots may also work alongside human employees, known as Robotic Desktop Automation (RDA). The term hyperautomation has also come to be used to refer to an approach that integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to address complex challenges.
[edit] Related articles on Designing for Buildings
- Artificial intelligence and civil engineering.
- Artificial Intelligence and its impact on the project profession.
- Artificial intelligence and surveying.
- Artificial intelligence for smarter, safer buildings.
- Artificial intelligence in buildings.
- BSRIA publishes Artificial Intelligence in Buildings white paper.
- Building automation and control systems.
- Building information modelling.
- Computer aided design CAD.
- Computers in building design.
- Generative design.
- Global building automation.
- Internet of things.
- Key AI related terms to be aware of, with UK government explanations.
- Machine learning.
- Parametric design.
- Predictive analytics.
- The impact of digital on civil engineering.
- Will AI ever be able to design buildings?
Featured articles and news
Design and construction industry podcasts
Professional development, practice, the pandemic, platforms and podcasts. Have we missed anything?
C20 Society; Buildings at Risk List 2025
10 more buildings published with updates on the past decade of buildings featured.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme and certifications consultation
Summary of government consultation, closing 11 June 2025.
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
From project managers to rising stars, sustainability pioneers and more.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.