Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in a company. Success factors and recommendations for the start

Table of Contents

1 Introduction

1.1 Starting situation

1.2 Research problem

1.3 Research question

1.4 Objectives, delimitation of content

1.5 Structure and procedure

2 Theoretical part

2.1 Literature research

2.2 State of research

2.3 RPA Basics

2.4 Field of application of RPA

2.5 Benefits of RPA

2.6 Limits and challenges

2.7 Success

2.8 Theoretical findings

3 Methodological approach

3.1 Qualitative research

3.2 Guideline interview as expert interview

3.3 Procedure

3.4 Data collection 5.

3.5 Data analysis 6.

4 Empirical part

4.1 Category: Initial situation/motivation

4.2 Category: Project initialization

4.3 Category: Litigation candidates

4.4 Category: Challenges

4.5 Category: factors

4.6 Category: Benefit

4.7 Category: Operation

5 Conclusion

5.1 Summary of results

5.2 Critical appreciation of the results

5.3 Outlook and further research needs

5.4 Concluding remark/reflection

Objectives and Themes

This thesis aims to identify the central success factors for the introduction of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) systems within companies. By addressing existing research gaps and conducting qualitative expert interviews, the work explores how organizations can effectively navigate the implementation process, overcome resistance, and achieve long-term operational benefits.

• Theoretical foundations and functionality of RPA systems versus BPMS.
• Identification of suitable process candidates for automation.
• Critical success factors including management support and governance.
• Change management strategies to mitigate employee resistance.
• Best practices for technical infrastructure and IT integration.

Excerpt from the Book

Summary of Chapters

1 Introduction: Provides an overview of the motivation for RPA, defines the research problem, and outlines the objectives and structure of the thesis.

2 Theoretical part: Examines existing literature on RPA, establishes key concepts, and distinguishes RPA from BPMS while identifying initial success factors.

3 Methodological approach: Describes the qualitative research design, detailing how expert interviews were conducted and evaluated through content analysis.

4 Empirical part: Presents the findings from the expert interviews, categorized by themes such as project initialization, challenges, and success factors.

5 Conclusion: Synthesizes empirical findings with theoretical models and offers a final assessment of the results and future research outlook.

Keywords

Robotic Process Automation, RPA, Digital Transformation, Business Process Management, Process Automation, Success Factors, Change Management, IT Governance, Operational Efficiency, Center of Excellence, Qualitative Research, Expert Interview, Back Office, Implementation Strategy, Software Robots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this work?

The thesis focuses on identifying central success factors for the successful introduction and implementation of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) systems in a corporate environment.

What are the central themes covered?

The core themes include the definition and functionality of RPA, the selection of suitable processes for automation, management of organizational change, and the governance of software robots.

What is the research objective?

The primary goal is to provide a foundation of knowledge for interested parties regarding the successful deployment of RPA, specifically by determining which factors facilitate a smooth introduction.

Which methodology is employed?

The author uses a qualitative research approach based on guideline-based expert interviews with users, manufacturers, and consultants, followed by a qualitative content analysis.

What topics are discussed in the main part?

The main part covers the theoretical background of RPA, the methodological framework, the empirical analysis of expert interviews regarding initial project setup, and an evaluation of success factors such as change management and governance.

Which keywords define this work?

Key terms include RPA, process automation, digital transformation, success factors, and qualitative research.

How does RPA differ from BPMS?

According to the text, RPA integrates via the presentation layer without requiring changes to existing backend applications, unlike BPMS which often requires complex technical integration via APIs.

What role does the IT department play?

The thesis emphasizes that early involvement of the IT department is a critical success factor to ensure secure infrastructure, governance, and long-term project support.

What is the significance of the pilot project?

A pilot project or "Proof of Concept" is highlighted as a vital step to demonstrate immediate success, gain practical experience, and build trust among stakeholders.

Why is Change Management essential?

Change management is required to address employee fears and ensure that staff are integrated into the automation journey, thereby preventing resistance and fostering project adoption.