Western Canada RPA User Group - Rising Robots, The AI Infusion on Automation @WonderBotz

The presentation by Paula Carneiro Cox at the "Western Canada RPA User Group - Rising Robots: The AI Infusion on Automation" discusses the intersection of AI and intelligent automation and how businesses can effectively incorporate these technologies. Paula, a strategic leader at WonderBotz, provides insights into her experience in process improvement and automation, focusing on how AI and RPA (Robotic Process Automation) can transform business operations. She emphasizes the importance of understanding data as the key enabler for both AI and automation.

Key topics covered include:

• AI's Role in Automation: Paula explains the evolution of automation from industrial robots to modern AI-infused automation, stressing that the adoption of AI technologies is accelerating and transforming industries. She highlights the rising demand for integrating AI in automation strategies to enhance business processes.
• Data's Central Role: Data remains critical in enabling automation and AI, and organizations must ensure their data is structured, accessible, and ready for use. Companies that optimize their data handling will achieve better outcomes from automation efforts.
• Generative AI: Paula introduces the concept of generative AI, where machines are capable of creating new processes based on historical data. She emphasizes that AI can enhance decision-making, but also raises concerns about governance and data security.
• Practical AI Applications: Several real-world examples are provided, including how AI can help businesses make strategic decisions (e.g., Hershey’s decision on product SKUs). AI is being used to improve both back-office operations (e.g., vendor onboarding) and customer-facing interactions.
• AI Strategy and Readiness: Paula advises organizations to focus on workforce planning, governance, and AI readiness. She highlights the importance of setting up AI user groups and ensuring data consolidation for successful AI adoption.
• Challenges in AI Adoption: Two major challenges are highlighted: alignment between departments to ensure efficient use of AI and addressing security concerns. Paula advocates for forming committees to guide AI implementation across business lines.
• Workforce Planning: As AI adoption grows, Paula stresses the need for workforce readiness. Organizations must ensure they have the right mix of employees, including data scientists and business analysts, to support AI initiatives.

The presentation encourages businesses to approach AI thoughtfully, leveraging existing automation efforts and focusing on data, workforce, and strategic alignment to achieve successful outcomes with AI integration.