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hyper-automation in the world of finance

Cyril André, Yuval Keren & Sébastien Corrao · April 08, 2024

In an era where digital transformation is paramount, Robotic Process Automation (RPA) stands out as a key enabler for efficiency and innovation in the finance sector.

In this white book, we explore the transformative role of RPA from three different angles, from specific customer case studies to the foundational strategies that ensure successful implementation. We discuss the efficiency gains and strategic advantages observed in real-world applications, delve into best practices for deployment, and conclude with the importance of governance and change management in maximising the value of RPA investments, like all innovations. This comprehensive overview provides insights into the benefits and critical considerations for integrating RPA effectively in financial operations.

streamlining finance with hyper-automation: case studies

As part of automation projects in the Finance sector, Itecor was requested to handle the following use cases:

  • Automation of compliance control
  • Temenos booking process automation

case study 1 – automation of compliance monitoring

Before the general meetings of quoted companies, the back-office team carries out a reconciliation process by checking the alignment of its internal records (information on the client’s identity and positions of the shares held by the client) with the register. Any discrepancies are corrected by sending rapid messages to GT Exchange.

itecor's achievements

Following an analysis of the business process, Itecor designed the automation on a scope defined according to priorities, legal requirements, and technical constraints. The automated process allows SWIFT messages to be sent to GT Exchange via the GT Frame platform.

consulting

  • 25 person-days investment for design, development, and UAT tests
  • 5 days for smoke tests, training, and production deployment.

benefits & results

50

time required for reconciliation processing has been reduced by 50

100

SWIFT messages were sent on busy days

15'

time for the automation process, compared to 13h20 minutes for the manual

case study 2 – Temenos booking process automation

Intervention to correct and improve existing automation consisting of a sequence of 5 robots that mainly generate and validate bookings on the Temenos T24 platform. The main pain points were the slowness of a specific “Validation” part of the robot, a high dependency on the IT team to manage the restart of the robots when needed, manual handling of identified errors, and a manual process needed to improve data quality before execution automation.

itecor's achievements

After re-evaluating the process, the scope was extended by including new functionalities. Performance was improved by correcting known and detected errors. The sales team is made autonomous to launch any robots from existing sequences if required. Robot automation is adjusted to perform manual actions historically carried out by the IT team, improving the autonomy of the sales team and reducing the operational workload required.

benefits & results

31%

improvement of the booking validation performance by refining the robot and developing more efficient navigation within the T24 platform

2-3h

time saved by with the version delivered by Itecor's, measured on busy days

1.75 FTE

improvement in overall process efficiency

After examining the impactful outcomes of RPA in customer case studies, we shift focus to the foundational elements necessary for such success. So, the next section dives into the best practices critical for RPA deployments, explaining the approach needed for technical and business achievements. This provides all the elements to design a roadmap for organisations aiming to leverage RPA effectively.

ensuring success in AI-powered RPA implementation: architecture and best practices

The implementation of AI- powered Robotic Process Automation (RPA) represents a significant step towards digital transformation. AI-powered RPA enables organisations to automate more complex, judgment-based processes, enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and free up valuable human resources for more strategic tasks. Drawing from the experiences detailed in the business cases, the following best practices are crucial for a successful deployment: 

1. strategic alignment and governance
Before embarking on an RPA journey, ensure there is a clear alignment with the organisation’s strategic objectives. Governance structures must be established to oversee the implementation, ensuring that RPA initiatives are in sync with business goals and technology strategies. This includes setting up a Center of Excellence (CoE) to lead, guide, and support RPA initiatives across the organisation. 
2. process selection and prioritisation
Identify and prioritise processes for automation based on factors such as volume, repeatability, error rate, and strategic value. Early wins with high-impact processes can build momentum and support for the RPA program. 
3. architecture and technical environment
Ensure your RPA platform and business applications are up to date and that test and production environments are similar to avoid discrepancies. Leveraging a centralised orchestration platform for robot management and deploying automation in a scalable, secure manner is essential.
4. validation and development
Collaborate closely with business owners to validate the accuracy of the processes to be automated. This collaborative approach ensures that the automation meets the actual needs and can adapt to process variations. Utilise a standardised automation framework as a template to structure the development of automation in a robust, scalable, and efficient way.
5. testing and quality assurance
Allocate sufficient time for testing to ensure the automation works as expected under various scenarios. This step is crucial to identify and rectify issues before deployment. 
6. training and change management ​
Managing the human aspect of RPA is critical. Ensure that staff are adequately trained not only on how to use the RPA software but also on the changes to their roles and processes. Effective communication and support are key to facilitating a smooth transition and adoption.
7. continuous improvement and monitoring
Post-deployment, continuously monitor and analyse the performance of RPA solutions. Be prepared to iterate and improve upon the automations as business processes evolve and new opportunities for enhancement are identified. 
8. security and compliance ​
Given the sensitive nature of processes often involved in RPA, ensure that automations comply with all relevant laws and regulations. Implement robust data protection measures and regularly review access controls to safeguard against unauthorised use. 
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By adhering to these best practices, organisations can not only achieve the technical success of RPA projects but also ensure they deliver tangible business value, aligning with the governance and change management strategies essential for sustainable growth in an ever-evolving digital landscape. 

To conclude, the last article explores the crucial roles of robust governance and effective change management in underpinning technology adoption. It highlights how ensuring RPA initiatives are strategically aligned can secure enduring benefits and adaptability in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

governance and change management: ensuring sustainable hyper-automation value

When we present this case study, we see that hyper-automation’s tools open up a whole new horizon, offering a multitude of possibilities for improving return on investment, ensuring compliance and promoting the evolution of services. Integrating innovative solutions is undoubtedly crucial to driving business development and growth. However, our experience has taught us that adopting new technologies requires a solid organisational framework to ensure stability within the business.

Above all, we must recognise that a technical project aimed at the business world is, above all, a human adventure. It is imperative that effective governance and appropriate change management are pragmatically put in place. 

Governance is the foundation on which the decision-making, policies and processes that direct and frame an organisation’s activities are built. Robust governance is essential for aligning technology decisions with the company’s strategic objectives and ensuring the ethical and efficient use of technology. Factually, optimal governance determines the following elements: 

Change management is the art and science of facilitating the adaptation of individuals and organisations to the changes brought about by the adoption of new technologies. Effective change management involves clearly communicating the benefits of new technologies, training staff to make the best use of them, and cultivating an environment conducive to innovation and adaptation.

Described in tangible terms, this process creates:

So, while purely technical success is essential, it is not enough to guarantee success in terms of business value. A balanced approach, incorporating both solid governance and proactive change management, is essential to maximise the benefits of new technologies and ensure the long-term viability of businesses in a constantly changing world.

Glossary

GTExchange is a software solution designed for financial institutions to manage and automate their interbank messaging and financial transactions. It supports various messaging standards, including those from SWIFT, and aims to facilitate efficient, secure, and reliable global communication between banks.

GTFrame is a software transformation and application integration product managing the co-existence of different standard message formats. It is designed to enable the integration of various banking and financial systems. It fits with SWIFT FileAct requirements.

SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) provides a network that enables financial institutions worldwide to send and receive information about financial transactions in a secure, standardised, and reliable environment.

T24, now often referred to simply as Temenos Transact, is a core banking system developed by Temenos. It provides a comprehensive suite of banking functions ranging from retail to corporate and private banking operations.

The authors of this insight are Cyril André – Senior Consultant, Yuval Keren – Head of Digital Solutions & Sébastien Corrao – Account Manager at Itecor. 

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