Workflow automation readiness guide
Check whether a process is ready to automate
Workflow automation readiness depends on a clear trigger, stable steps, measurable volume, known exceptions, usable system access and an owner after release.
Map the real work
Before
Not ready
After
Ready to plan
Different cases start the workflow in different ways
becomes
The trigger and usual steps are clear
Nobody owns the exceptions
becomes
Each exception has an owner and an agreed response
There is no usable baseline
becomes
Volume, time and error rates can be measured
List the exceptions before you automate
Map what happens when information is missing, an approval is late or a connected system fails.
Check the normal steps and the exceptionsATC / system view
TriggerOne repeatable event
Normal stepsPeople agree on the path
System accessData can move safely
Ready to planCurrent measures recorded
Exception foundRecord the cause
Assign ownerName the decision maker
Plan the responseResume or close
Add the response to the project planNext step
Test one workflow
The assessment takes a few minutes and tells you what to do next.