Hollywood frequently will fantasize storylines of computers taking over the humans but the real power of robotics process automation (RPA) lies in augmenting processes. RPA “robots” or “bots” are transforming the way we think about business processes, IT support, workflow, and back-office work. Tasks that are redundant and has a well-defined process can potentially be a candidate for RPA which would empower accountants to focus on transactions that may require more analysis.
Publication Date: November 2021
Designed For
Professionals in public practice, business, government, and education who wish to be knowledgeable about the power of robotics process automation.
Topics Covered
- Singularity versus Augmentation
- What is RPA? a BOT??
- What can BOT do? What are the limitations?
- Strategies for BOT implementation
- How will BOTs change the future of work?
- What are the key skills I need to develop for a BOT-driven future?
Learning Objectives
- Identify the fundamental characteristics of RPA
- Recognize how to contrast the differences between centralized and decentralized RPA models
- Identify the components of RPA including infrastructure, licensing, build/deploy, and maintenance
- Recognize the importance of organizational culture if RPA initiatives
- Identify the hypothetical point where technology causes unforeseen and irreversible change to human civilization
- Identify software that emulates a task of a human and interacts with the interface of a computer system
- Differentiate types of BOTs and how they function
- Identify an advantage of BOTs
- Identify the percentage of initial RPA projects that fail, based on reality (not expectation)
- Identify the first step in cognitive computing
- Identify a growing skill for 2022 according to the World Economic Forum
Level
Intermediate
Instructional Method
Self-Study
NASBA Field of Study
Information Technology (2 hours)
Program Prerequisites
Basic understanding of accounting and audit standards.
Advance Preparation
None
Instructor
Cory Campbell
Cory Campbell is an Associate Professor of Accounting at Indiana State University. His teaching and research interests lie at the intersection between accounting and technology. He facilitates CPE workshops for the Indiana CPA Society on various emerging technologies and has been a subject matter expert for the AICPA on blockchain technology, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Cory is also a principal at GRC Metrix, a consulting firm that focuses on digital transformation.