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ACCA Applied Knowledge · Business and Technology · The impact of advances in technology

Which task is most suitable for robotic process automation (RPA) in a finance department?

Copying standard remittance data from emails into the receivables ledger is most suitable. RPA works best on high-volume, repetitive, rule-based tasks with structured inputs. Assessing provisions, negotiating terms and setting capital structure require judgement, interpersonal skills or strategic thinking, so they are poor candidates for robotic automation.

  1. AJudging whether a major customer's going concern doubts require a provision
  2. BCopying standard remittance data from emails into the receivables ledger according to fixed rulesCorrect
  3. CNegotiating payment terms with a key supplier
  4. DDeciding the firm's long-term capital structure

Explanation

RPA suits high-volume, repetitive, rule-based, structured tasks such as transferring remittance data into a ledger. The other options need professional judgement, negotiation skills or strategic decision-making, which RPA cannot replicate.

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