Learn the difference between RPA vs macros. Knowing their individual differences should help you choose automation tools wisely.
RPA vs Macros: Why The Difference?
When we talk about automation, among the first choices should be RPA and macros.
Why?
Well, basically because both can automate tasks.
Suppose you are in the middle of a decision. ‘Should I deploy a robot for such task?’, you might ask yourself.
By all means, you should well know that macros can automate too. But, the big difference should be with the type of task you wish to automate.
Macros can automate. But macros can only automate simple tasks. But for enterprise-scale automation tasks, perhaps RPA should suit well. Because RPA can even automate a macro to get it done.
Can you see the difference?
I guess you should.
But, you can gain an in-depth insight into this with their individual functions.
What Is Macro?
If your task includes doing something repetitively in a code, like modifying some texts into something else. A macro can greatly help.
Doing codes over and over again can be boring in the long run. Although it serves your job well, why not let the macro get it done?
A macro involves a short sequence of code. This code then converts into a set of instructions that turns into a process. This then enables a task to be done through automation.
Furthermore, a macro may include keystrokes, mouse shortcuts, or text substitutions. Also, it is noteworthy to say that macro can automate only a single task.
What are common examples of a macro?
Usually, macros work best with excel tasks.
For example:
- Unhide worksheets
- Hide all worksheets except an active sheet
- Unmerge all merged cells
- Save workbook with a timestamp in its name
- Sort worksheets alphabetically
What is RPA?
RPA, on the other hand, is the next generation of macros. RPA is defined as Robotic Process Automation.
As the ‘next generation’ of macros, RPA works smarter than macros. A robot can even decide when to execute macros. This is because robots are smart enough to respond to external stimuli. This is why RPA suits more complex tasks. Enterprise-wide scale processes, for instance.
Furthermore, unlike macro, RPA can work by itself. But it can also work by human triggers. So RPA works both ways.
What’s the difference?
- Attended Automation-is the automation that needs human interference. Perhaps through a single click or any trigger.
- Unattended Automation– automation that executes by itself. This means that it can run even without human interference.
However, both automation ways are highly beneficial. Not all tasks can be applied with unattended automation. Because even with the smart design of robots, they can’t outstand the wit of human brain.
Thus, in whichever task, automation can do the job for you.
WalkMe Can Help
Many businesses are greatly disturbed by the disruption technology brings. But gladly, the experts can help through the crisis.
WalkMe is a digital adoption platform designed to guide enterprises through their DX journey. Perhaps you can visit their website to learn more of what they can offer at www.walkme.com.
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