When RPA isn’t Enough: Custom Process Automation for Mid-Size Companies

Robotic process automation (RPA) offers quick wins for mid-size companies by automating stable, rules-based tasks through user interface interactions. However, RPA struggles with processes involving multiple changing systems, judgment-based steps, or unstructured inputs like emails and scanned documents. Custom process automation, which integrates directly via APIs and maintains its own data storage, proves more reliable and cost-effective long-term, especially for processes with frequent changes, exceptions, or needs for clean data. The custom approach often uses straightforward tech stacks (Python, Node.js, PostgreSQL, Docker) and can incorporate AI for handling complex inputs. Effective automation begins with mapping the entire process, clarifying workflows, exceptions, and data flows, guiding the choice between bots and custom builds. Hybrid solutions combining both methods can also be optimal.