RPA Databots

In the project RPA Databots VIL has developed an accessible and low-cost system, based on Robot Process Automation, for companies to upgrade their level of automation in administrative processes in a short period of time.

status: Closed | theme: Digital transformation | type: Regional

It is a challenge to merge and process data from different suppliers, logistics service providers, customers and internal departments, even with excellent IT systems. There is a need for an accessible and low-cost system to upgrade the level of automation in administrative processes in a short period of time. ‘Databots’, an application of Robotic Process Automation (RPA), can provide a fast and low-cost solution, especially for SME’s. This application is already being used within larger companies, but still relatively unknown in the logistics sector.

The use of RPA provides the possibility to innovatively digitalize without needing to adjust the existing IT-systems. The software robot works like a virtual twin of the administrative employer, that learns the day-to-day data processing and is, after that, able to do these tasks independently, 24 hours a day if needed. The software robots take over the routine data processing tasks, so the employer can focus on more complex tasks and communication with personnel, suppliers and customers.

Goal

Offering companies the opportunity to upgrade their levels of automation and digitize their logistic administrative processes in a short period of time with an accessible and low-cost system.

 

Results

  • With RPA data bots, VIL has provided an approachable and low-cost system that allows companies to automate their logistics administrative processes in a short time. VIL tested the applicability for two processes at two companies, specifically the order processing process at Handico Trucking and the pricing process at Van Moer Logistics.
  • In the logistics sector, the potential for automation with RPA databots is great. The sector is characterized by a multitude of documents and data flows. A survey shows that 32% of transport and logistics companies rely on manual steps in more than 50% of their processes.
  • At both PoC companies, the trial yielded significant time savings, reduced error rates and improved customer service. RPA increases productivity, service levels and staff capacity by 35 – 50%. This provides immediate cost savings of 25 – 50 % by automating tasks at a fraction of the human equivalent.
  • The technology is ecnomically feasible, even for SMEs. Automating a basic logistics process ranges between 10,000 – 20,000€. This cost includes a one-time databot start-up cost, the annual databot license, training of the databot, maintenance costs and the time commitment of the stakeholders involved. ROI ranges from 30% to 200% with an average payback period of three to six months.
  • Companies can achieve scale when they incorporate the implementation of RPA databots into their digital strategy. A step-by-step approach will get companies well on their way in their digital transformation.

Practical details

Start: November 2020
Total Lead Time: 18 months

Participating companies

Colruyt Group, Embassy Freight Services Europe, Group Van Loon, Handico Trucking, Hospital Logistics, Mazda Motor Logistics Europe, Snel Logistic Solutions and Van Moer Logistics.

Would you like to know more?

Contact Sophie Delannoy (sophie.delannoy@vil.be)

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