The Rise of Agentic Process Automation

Summary

This presentation explores the future of AI in process management, emphasizing the shift towards AI agents that will support more complex workflows and integrate with legacy systems. The speaker discusses how platforms like LangChain could revolutionize automation, while predicting that true AI-driven process management may not fully emerge until 2027-2028. The speaker also highlights the impact of AI on the workforce, urging workers to adapt to shifting roles. A book offering guidance on navigating these changes is introduced, focusing on helping individuals thrive in the evolving AI landscape.

Takeaways

• 😀 AI platforms, such as LangChain, are seen as wildcards in the automation market, with uncertain impacts on established tooling categories.
• 😀 Large language models (LLMs) excel in short-running, conversation-based tasks, while intelligent automation platforms are better suited for long-running, complex workflows.
• 😀 AI's integration into enterprise contexts is predicted to take several years, as companies continue to digitize basic processes.
• 😀 RPA, DPA, and other process automation platforms will remain essential for workflows requiring strong action components and deterministic orchestration.
• 😀 AI needs process intelligence and automation features to achieve real ROI; merely providing conversational assistance without action is not sufficient.
• 😀 Legacy technologies will continue to play a role, with AI needing to interact with and support existing environments for the foreseeable future.
• 😀 Predictions about the future of AI-driven workflows are difficult, and AI's full potential in process management may not be realized until 2027-2028.
• 😀 An interim period is expected, where AI agents will begin orchestrating pre-existing automation systems like RPA bots, but deterministic orchestration engines will still be critical for the next two years.
• 😀 Yogi Berra's famous quote about predictions highlights the inherent uncertainty in forecasting AI's future, especially regarding the pace of adoption in various industries.
• 😀 The speaker's upcoming book addresses the workforce impact of AI, particularly the shift from middle-skill jobs to service and professional roles, offering a blueprint for adapting to these changes.

Q & A

What role does AI play in process automation according to the speaker?

The speaker highlights AI's role in automating long-running, complex processes. AI tools, such as large language models, are seen as crucial for enhancing process automation by providing intelligence and enabling better decision-making.

How does the speaker differentiate between different types of process automation tools?

The speaker distinguishes between traditional automation tools like RPA (Robotic Process Automation) and AI-driven tools. RPA is more focused on long-running processes with strong action capabilities, while AI tools excel in discrete tasks and natural language processing.

What is the expected timeline for fully AI-driven process management, according to the speaker?

The speaker predicts that true AI-driven process management will likely emerge around 2027-2028, as the adoption of AI in enterprise contexts will take time and requires significant advancements in trust and technology.

Why does the speaker believe AI tools need process automation to be truly valuable?

The speaker argues that for AI to achieve ROI and provide real value, it needs to be paired with process automation tools. AI without the ability to perform actions or automate processes would be less effective in supporting human workflows.

What is the role of AI agents in process automation, as discussed by the speaker?

AI agents are expected to play a role in orchestrating pre-packaged automation tools, like bots built with RPA constructs. They will manage scheduling and execution of tasks but will still rely on deterministic engines for control and oversight.

What challenges does the speaker foresee in achieving AI-driven process management?

The challenges include trust issues around AI making autonomous decisions and performing actions in complex workflows. Additionally, many organizations are still struggling with basic digital transformation, which slows down the broader adoption of AI.

How does the speaker view the future of the workforce in relation to AI?

The speaker sees a shift in the workforce, with middle-skilled workers possibly being displaced or transitioning to different roles. While jobs won't necessarily be eliminated, the nature of work will change, requiring individuals to adapt to new professional categories.

What is the significance of AI in employee support for longer, more complex processes?

AI is seen as crucial in supporting employees through complex, long-running processes that require interaction with legacy systems. AI will assist in managing and automating these processes, thereby enhancing overall efficiency and effectiveness.

What is the speaker’s perspective on the future of traditional automation vendors?

The speaker suggests that traditional automation vendors will need to integrate AI to remain relevant. AI-driven capabilities will be essential for these vendors to evolve and continue providing value in a changing market.

What is the main message of the speaker's upcoming book?

The speaker’s book is a blueprint aimed at workers, helping them navigate the disruptions caused by AI. It offers strategies for workers at different levels to adapt to AI's impact, whether it’s shifting from middle-level to frontline roles or staying ahead of AI advancements in professional fields.