The Role of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in Logistics

Automation of business processes to create more efficient and cost‐effective operations has been the goal of corporations for decades. With robotic process automation (RPA), a new alternative exists that potentially is a game changer to freeing up white‐collar workers from repetitive manual entry tasks. In this chapter, the authors will highlight the growing attention that RPA is capturing from business executives around the world as well as looking at the financial impacts that it could have on their operations. The challenges and opportunities relating to this exciting new technology will be laid out in the context of international logistics. A guide to what some of the key steps in navigating the implementation of RPA is offered to help logistics professionals examine whether this is a pragmatic solution for them.