Have you ordered a product online and received a shipping notification via email, or perhaps filled out a job application online? If so, then you’ve been exposed to the technology known as Robotic Process Automation (RPA). But what exactly is RPA?
Put simply, RPA allows for the configuration of software “robots” to capture data and perform routine tasks ranging from automated emails to streamlining process flows or business operations. Not only is RPA simple to employ, it provides a number of benefits such as an increase in efficiency and improved customer service.
Now that you have an idea what RPA is, you may be wondering what type of career path is available to someone interested in this intriguing and rewarding field. One of the many RPA career possibilities available is that of an RPA developer.
So What is an RPA Developer?
Generally speaking, an RPA developer is someone who works cross-functionally with business operations and business analysts to create and optimize workflow processes. However, this is a relatively new career path, and many organization’s formal titles for RPA developers differ. Other similar positions may use titles like Process Designer or Automation Architect.
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But no matter the title, the role of a successful RPA developer requires specific skills and best practices like documentation and planning. In order to automate a business process, an RPA developer will be required to create workflow diagrams and strategically document the process prior to implementation.
While the responsibilities of an RPA developer may vary, someone in this role is typically in charge of designing and managing workflow automation projects. You may also be responsible for testing or bug fixes, so coding skills are important as well. In order to be successful in the role of RPA developer, you must have the ability to navigate various appropriate technologies, such as UiPath or Automation Anywhere. We will go over how to get certified in these tools later.
Desirable Skills for RPA Developers
Now that you know what an RPA developer is and what their duties look like, it’s time to investigate which skills are essential for success in this domain. A few of the most important skills are outlined below.
- Strategic Planning Skills: Planning is imperative for success in this role. Setting design goals or initiatives for your RPA project and mapping out workflow will allow for an easier implementation.
- Strong Analytical Skills: You will need to be able to analyze a process and provide improvement recommendations. A key benefit of adopting RPA is its ability to improve workflow, therefore as an RPA developer you are responsible for managing the technology that does just that: improves workflow.
- Problem Solving Skills: Automation does not always go smoothly the first time around. Mistakes happen, and bugs will pop up. We already mentioned that you may be responsible for testing and bug fixes. The ability to debug a robot will come in handy, saving you time and stress as you handle any crisis that comes along.
- Understanding of Programming Languages: It’s critical that you have experience and thorough knowledge in programming languages such as C/C++, Python, Ruby, and Java (to name a few!).
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While these are only a few of the skills you will need as an RPA developer, don’t limit your skills to those listed above. Check out this article on RPA development for more skills you’ll need to sharpen in order to be successful in this role!
Future of RPA
Robotic Process Automation isn’t going away; in fact, Forrester estimates that by 2021, the RPA market will reach $2.9 billion. Industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and retail are adopting RPA to automate tasks such as claims processing, inventory management, and invoice generation. RPA is continuing to advance and improve the processes of those who properly employ it, and that isn’t going to slow down any time soon. In fact, the better that RPA gets, the more companies and organizations will eagerly adopt it, creating the need for even more RPA professionals.
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So what does that mean for the IT workforce? An increase in hiring, specifically those with RPA in their skill set. A career in RPA also comes with an attractive salary. According to Indeed, the average salary for an RPA developer ranges from $97,166 to $141,261. Because this is still a fairly new industry, strong RPA skills are hard to find and highly valued!
Check out the video below that will guide you on how to become an RPA developer.
How to Get RPA Certified
Simplilearn’s RPA course and Automation Anywhere certification courses are a great way to sharpen your skills. If you consider yourself more of an RPA beginner, we have a course for you too. Introduction to RPA gives learners an overview of RPA concepts, RPA tools and workflows used in intelligent automation, and steps for implementing RPA in different segments of the enterprise. These courses are sure to help you get started on your journey to becoming an RPA developer.
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If you are looking to enhance your software development skills further, we would recommend you check Simplilearn's Post Graduate Program in Full Stack Web Development. This course, in collaboration with Caltech CTME, can help you hone the right skills and make you job ready.
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