AP is a great place to start with process automation and AI. By nature AP invoices are considered “unstable data”. Meaning the data we want is there but not always in the same place on the geometry of the page. Our eyes can see it, which is why the manual process works. Mapping where that important data is on each invoice is where AI comes in.

Even with unstable data there are still patterns to be recognized. We can repetitively “train” AI to remember these patterns and use that memory to find the data automatically the next time that invoice is seen. Once we have the necessary data we can categorize the invoice and trigger workflows (the automation) to determine what type of invoice it is and how to process it.

By Sergio Suarez Jr. – Workflow automation, also called data automation, is the new buzzword in the tech industry, but what is it, really? To put it simply, workflow automation means getting information into a system, launching tasks to process the data, and routing it to the correct people. This process is done using rule-based logic, and ideally with little to no human intervention necessary.

For some people, a world of automation and artificial intelligence can be overwhelming or even lead to job security concerns. In reality, automation and artificial intelligence can be complementary work companions to most jobs, helping humans do their jobs more efficiently and effectively. 

One example of workflow automation is in the way most invoices are processed. The typical manual process is tedious, time-consuming and prone to errors. This process usually includes receiving an email, forwarding it to the billing department, and assigning it to someone who then types out the important information into a payable invoice. That information then gets sent to someone to take line items and do an inventory to confirm the information is correct. Each time this process involves another person, there is a greater chance of human error and definitely more time added to the process.

 This is why automation, specifically related to documents like invoices, can be massively advantageous for organizations in terms of finance, efficiency and accuracy. Still, there are different approaches to workflow automation that pose different advantages to different organizations, and an informed decision between the two is critical. Read On: