How to Become an RPA Specialist

The information revolution of the 21st century has been disrupting traditional business models. The arrival of new technology is transforming the work place making way to new career roles. One of the new-age technological domains that has been gaining high traction in the business world in recent times is Robotic Process Automation. It is a multi-million dollar global industry which is delivering cutting-edge solutions to organisations. At an event in 2018 Daniel Dines, CEO and Co-Founder of UiPath, a software company which delivers RPA solutions said, “Robotic Process Automation will generate 2 lakh jobs in India by 2021.” The country, like with most other technology domains, has always been on the forefront in adapting to changes and creating the necessary talent pool. As far as RPA is concerned, aspirants have started working towards gaining the knowledge and skills that helps them get into the industry. If you like the idea of providing automated solutions to real world business challenges through programming, then a career in RPA may interest you. In this article you will find out what it takes to become a Robotic Process Automation Specialist.

Careers in RPA – What Software Should I Know?

The process of automating a particular business operation involves the use of RPA tools. These tools are pre-designed by organizations such as Automation Anywhere, Datamatics etc. Therefore, a person who designs or develops a series of automated activities to perform a task does not have to use a lot of coding. It is important for the candidate to develop the ability of creating algorithms where a set of rules define how each operation should take place at each stage. This is one of the core principles on which RPA works.

Though there is not much coding involved in designing RPA solutions, experts say that aspirants are required to have knowledge of any one of the programming languages such as Java, Python or C. The knowledge of programming languages can help them understand the logical flow of the process better and enable them to automate more complex processes. A good foundational knowledge in core programming languages ensures that the aspirant can explore all possibilities from RPA tool library. Furthermore, programming knowledge will be necessary to extend the functionality of RPA.

What are the Technical Skills Required for an RPA Specialist?

Programming knowledge and the ability to understand the logic forms just one half of the skill requirement for RPA career. Aspirants are expected to have knowledge and skills in various other subjects which can help them at their job. RPA is getting more advanced with development in artificial intelligence technology. Therefore, it becomes necessary for aspirant to have knowledge of artificial intelligence and machine learning. It is also good to have knowledge of database management systems. Furthermore, the aspirant must have good analytical and problem solving skills and also good communication and presentation skills, since the aspirants may have to communicate with different teams, understand the process in order to be able to automate it and finally document the same.

Degrees Specializing in Robotic Process Automation and Artificial Intelligence

With changing technology and job roles, the undergraduate programs at Universities too are witnessing a transformation. Today there are a few Universities in India which offer programs specializing in Process Automation and Artificial Intelligence. These programs cover most of the subjects of a traditional degree program and cover specific topics that are most essential for students to enter into RPA industry. Students also get opportunities to interact with the industry during their course. With strong theoretical knowledge and skills, students can be in a better position when they launch their career in RPA domain.