Workflow Automation
The problem
Work moves between inboxes, spreadsheets and chat by people copying and forwarding. Things get missed, approvals wait for someone to notice, and nobody can easily say where a job currently stands.
How it works
The steps are mapped, and the predictable ones are automated: when something happens in one tool, the next action happens in another. Approvals and exceptions go to a named person, and every step is logged.
- Map the current process. Write down each step, who does it and what triggers it.
- Pick the predictable steps. Choose rule-based steps that rarely need judgement.
- Connect the tools. Triggers and actions are wired between your systems.
- Route exceptions to people. Anything unusual goes to a named person, and everything is logged.
What it automates
- Moving data between tools
- Sending notifications and reminders
- Routing approvals
- Updating statuses
- Logging each step for audit
Where it fits
It sits on top of your existing tools through their integrations, leaving your people in charge of decisions.
Potential benefits
- Fewer dropped hand-offs
- Less repetitive admin for the team
- A reliable record of what happened and when
Limitations
- Not every process is worth automating; unclear processes should be fixed first
- Integrations depend on what each tool allows
- Automations need monitoring and occasional maintenance
How to start
- Choose a process that is frequent, rule-based and annoying.
- Map it with the people who do it.
- Automate the simplest version first and extend it once it has run reliably.
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