Important Update
There are plenty of automation tools and solutions out there. Zapier is one of the famous automation software. But, if you want finer control, then you need to take advantage of Robotic Processing Automation(RPA) — a dedicated process automation technology that utilizes artificial intelligence(AI) workers or software robots.
In today’s article, our focus will be on Zapier and Robotic Processing Automation (RPA). We will learn about both of them and pit them against each other in our Zapier vs RPA showdown.
If you are in a hurry, then check out the quick comparison table between Zapier vs RPA.
| Solution | Price | Trial Availability | Apps Support | Customizability |
| Zapier | Starts at $20/month | Yes | 2000+ apps supported | Limited |
| RPA | Depends on provider | Yes in most cases | Unlimited app support | Unlimited |
Zapier is an automation tool that lets you connect apps and create workflow automation. It is aimed at busy people who want to focus on creative tasks and automate mundane and boring repetitive tasks.
Zapier comes with a clean dashboard interface where you can connect two or more applications using triggers and action. The process of creating workflow automation is easy and well-guided for both experienced and newcomers. Also, it comes with the support of 2000+ apps with the ability to create workflows with few clicks.
RPA is defined as the process automation technology that is based on artificial intelligence(AI) workers and software robots. In simple words, it is a generic tool that uses screen scraping technology to create agents which can then be used to automate boring and clerical tasks.
RPA is part of artificial intelligence and can be used to work in both modern and legacy systems.
One of the prime examples of RPA providers is ByteScout as they provide exciting RPA tools for businesses as they also offer customized RPA solutions depending on the business needs.
Zapier is for freelancers, small and medium-scale businesses, engineers, entrepreneurs, and so on.
While RPA can be used by small, medium, and enterprise-level businesses. It can also be used to automate day-to-day tasks by freelancers, entrepreneurs, and engineers.
In short, RPA offers better customizability and adaptability, and hence can be used by a wide variety of users.
Zapier is easy to use as it is aimed at small to medium-scale businesses. It offers a unique dashboard with the ability to select apps and connect them using tasks. The wizard process is detailed and will give users enough information so that they do not feel lost.
RPA solutions are diverse in their approach and hence their ease-of-use varies depending on their implementation. ByteScout, for example, provides a pre-made SDK solution for quick customization and deployment. For example, if you want to split and merge PDF documents, you can simply add a robot named “Advanced: Split and Merge PDF documents” to enable it.
Also, ByteScout requires no coding as you can use ready-to-use templates and visual blocks to automate apps.
When it comes to customer support, both Zapier and RPA solutions are at par. Zapier comes with 24/7 live rep support and also offers a ticketing system.
RPA’s customer support depends on the solution provider. ByteScout, for example, offers support through email and resolves issues within a few hours of submitting a request.
When it comes to features and functionality, both Zapier and RPA solutions offer tons of features.
To better understand RPA, we also need to look at how it improves business functioning.
RPA lets you automate repetitive or mundane tasks that do not require creative or problem-solving skills. That’s why bots are used to replace employees and free their time to work towards creative things.
RPA solves the core problem that most businesses go through. They provide the tool to make employees more productive. For instance, salespeople can use their free time to do more sales or design stuff without arranging meetings. By removing the need to do manual work, employees feel more empowered and boost employee satisfaction.
According to the case study by Blue Prism, a UK mobile communications provider saw a three-year return investment of over 650%.
RPA also helps in reducing the cost. According to Deloitte, using RPA can result in around 30% cost reduction per process.
However, RPA should not be seen as a way to cut jobs. Companies work towards making their business process as efficient as possible. It is also the job of companies to allocate their employees to new interactive and meaningful tasks.
Zapier is an automation tool that lets anyone automate their workflow. RPA, on the other hand, also takes an automation approach, but on a larger scale. It is common for people to argue that Zapier is part of RPA as it also lets users create workflows that work in the background.
Doesn’t this sound like RPA?
Well, it does. But it is not as simple when it comes to RPA.
RPA offers finer control and works on solutions that are huge in scale and possibilities. RPA enables businesses to fine-tune their processes so that they can save money and time.
Zapier, on the other hand, is more inclined towards individuals who want to automate their workflow to become more productive as possible.
Zapier is an online automation tool as well whereas RPA can be implemented both offline and online.
In short, we can define Zapier as a solution that inspires RPA.
This leads us to the end of our Zapier vs RPA comparison. So, what do you think about them? Are you going to use an RPA solution like ByteScout or Zapier? Comment below and let us know.`
About the Author
ByteScout Team of Writers
ByteScout has a team of professional writers proficient in different technical topics. We select the best writers to cover interesting and trending topics for our readers. We love developers and we hope our articles help you learn about programming and programmers.
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