Repeatable steps
The activity runs the same way every time.
Automation
Automation starts with understanding what happens today.
Automating a process that is not sound only makes deviations happen faster. Every engagement therefore starts by establishing how the work runs today.
Situations you may recognise
The same screens are worked through for every file.
Documents are collected and linked to a file by hand.
Data is retyped between ERP, WMS and the customs system.
Statuses are chased by telephone or email.
Exceptions are tracked in a spreadsheet.
Nobody sees straight away that a message failed to process.
When automation is a stronger candidate
The more of these apply, the more likely it is that automation will hold up.
Deterministic rules
The outcome follows from the rules, not from interpretation.
Stable source data
The source is agreed and does not change case by case.
Clear ownership
It is known who steps in when something goes wrong.
Observable failure behaviour
A failure is visible rather than silent.
Representative test scenarios
There are enough real cases to test against.
A fallback plan
There is a way of working if the automation stops.
Maintainable technical access
The route into the system holds up over time.
What Flow29 can automate
| Process analysis | Establishing what actually happens today, before anything is built. |
| Configuration improvements | Putting existing functionality to use after all. |
| Repetitive system actions | Steps that are identical for every file. |
| Document collection | Retrieving, linking and preparing documents. |
| Data preparation and transfer | Structured movement between systems. |
| Validation | Checks before submission rather than corrections afterwards. |
| Work queues and workflow | Distributing, showing and following up work. |
| Monitoring and alerts | Watching what was processed and warning on deviations. |
| Status feedback | Reporting back to internal systems and the people involved. |
| First-line support preparation | Preparing information for whoever picks up the report. |
What generally requires human assessment
| Classification and origin | Decisions that require expertise and responsibility. |
| Authorisation conditions | Judging whether a condition applies in this case. |
| Final approval | Sign-off by the person who carries the responsibility. |
| Exceptional situations | Rare or poorly documented cases. |
| Correspondence | Contact about an ongoing dispute or a special procedure. |
How automation may be delivered
- Configuration of existing software
- Standard imports and exports
- Standard interfaces
- System integration
- Data-processing tooling
- Customs Tooling
- Workflow tooling
- Document tooling
- Controlled user-interface automation where appropriate
- Monitoring and support
There is no fixed route. Which form fits depends on the client process, the available system functionality, security, maintainability, volume, ownership, failure behaviour, supplier conditions and the risk profile.
Discuss your situation
Describe which work repeats. Flow29 will say whether automation is a strong candidate now, or whether the process needs attention first.