{"id":10,"date":"2023-08-17T14:56:31","date_gmt":"2023-08-17T13:56:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.bath.ac.uk\/power-up\/?p=10"},"modified":"2023-10-27T15:55:14","modified_gmt":"2023-10-27T14:55:14","slug":"what-is-automation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.bath.ac.uk\/power-up\/2023\/08\/17\/what-is-automation\/","title":{"rendered":"What is automation?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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What do we mean by automation?<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Automation is something that we use every day, whether we consciously mean to or not: doors, coffee machines, smart speakers, thermostats, alarms on our phones - they all utilise automation of some kind. Etymologically speaking, it\u2019s derived from the Greek root words of \u2018Auto\u2019, meaning \u201cself\u201d, and \u2018Matos\u2019, meaning \u201cmoving\u201d - so when we set up equipment, software or machinery to automate, or do things automatically, the technology is self-moving, making things happen on its own without the need for constant instructions. <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When we think about automation in a professional context, we are referring to the use of technology to perform tasks or processes with minimal human intervention. This can range from basic, repetitive tasks (e.g., data entry) to complex processes (e.g., managing multi-step approvals). The main goals of automation are to streamline operations, reduce errors, enhance efficiency, and free up human resources to focus on more strategic and creative aspects of work.\u00a0 Automation isn't always a quick fix and can\u2019t replace tasks that require a human touch \u2013 like making decisions, understanding emotions, and brainstorming new ideas - but there are opportunities within automation to make your working life easier.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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The Role of Automation in Technology<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As the world becomes more demanding and we strive to achieve more with limited time, it\u2019s not surprising that automation has gained importance. It\u2019s an essential tool for organisations like universities to remain competitive in today\u2019s dynamic landscape.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Technology has paved the way for automation to flourish. With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), computers are now capable of learning from data and making intelligent decisions. This has led to the development of sophisticated automation systems that can adapt and optimise their performance over time.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Some of the different forms of automation that colleagues might be interested in, include: <\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n