Do you have legacy systems and don't know how to integrate them? See how RPA is key
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For many companies that have grown organically for years, legacy systems represent both a strength and a barrier.
These are tools that have been there from the beginning, but over time have become difficult to maintain, connect, or scale.
Today, digital transformation demands speed, automation, and integration. But what happens when your legacy systems don't speak the language of new digital platforms? That's where robotic process automation (RPA) makes the difference.
What is RPA and why is it relevant to legacy systems?
RPA (Robotic Process Automation) is a technology that automates repetitive and structured tasks through software bots. Unlike traditional integration, RPA doesn't require modifying existing systems.
Instead, you interact with applications just as a human user would, using the graphical interface to perform actions such as copying data, clicking, entering information, or transferring data between systems.
“Just like people, robots can understand information on a screen, press the right keys, navigate systems, identify and extract data, and perform a wide range of defined actions. However, robots can do this faster and more consistently than people, without needing to get up, stretch, or grab a cup of coffee,” explained UiPath on its website.
For companies that rely on older software, with proprietary code, or without active support, this represents a huge opportunity. They can keep their legacy systems running while efficiently integrating them with new tools or workflows.
RPA consulting: The first step to understanding its potential
The first step to knowing if RPA is the ideal solution for your company is to conduct a diagnosis. This is where RPA consulting comes in. A specialized team analyzes current processes, identifies bottlenecks, and proposes high-impact automations.
A good consulting firm not only analyzes operational tasks but also takes into account the company's strategic vision: which processes are critical? Which areas need greater efficiency? Where are resources being lost the most due to human error or duplication of tasks?
Furthermore, in contexts where there are multiple legacy systems that are not connected to each other, an RPA consulting firm can help define what type of automation is most viable, in what order bots should be implemented, and how to ensure the project's future scalability.
RPA service providers: Strategic allies for transformation
Once automation opportunities have been identified, it is key to choose wisely among RPA service providers. This is no small step. The right provider not only offers the technology, but also the technical and business knowledge to carry out a successful implementation.
Some key aspects to consider when choosing a provider:
- Previous experience in your industry.
- Ability to work with specific legacy systems (old ERPs, proprietary software, platforms without APIs).
- A consultative, rather than solely technical, approach.
- Post-implementation support.
- Scalability and long-term vision.
A reliable provider understands that every company is unique, especially those with a decades-old technology infrastructure. The value lies not only in automating, but in doing so strategically, aligned with business objectives.
RPA services: Beyond task automation
RPA services are not limited to programming bots. They involve a series of stages, including analysis, process design, testing, deployment, and maintenance. All with the goal of optimizing business operations and reducing dependence on manual tasks.
For companies with legacy systems, some examples of key services include:
- Automation of data transfers between old and new platforms.
- Bots for data entry and extraction from applications without modern connectors.
- Automation of accounting, logistics, or customer service reports.
- Data validation and error detection in fragmented systems.
These services free up human resources, reduce errors, shorten turnaround times, and increase business responsiveness to changes or new challenges.
“RPA is non-invasive and can be implemented quickly to accelerate digital transformation. It's also ideal for automating workflows involving legacy systems that lack APIs, virtual desktop infrastructures (VDI), or database access,” they added on the UiPath website.
RPA implementation: Fast, secure, and without impacting your operations
Unlike other technology projects, implementing RPA doesn't require modifying your systems' architecture or shutting down operations. Bots work on the interface layer, so they can coexist with your current environment without risk.
A good implementation process typically follows these steps:
- Identification of candidate processes.
- Prioritization based on impact and feasibility.
- Bot design and programming.
- Testing in controlled environments.
- Gradual deployment and monitoring.
In addition, many modern RPA solutions offer control dashboards, allowing real-time visualization of bot performance, savings generated, and automated tasks.
Benefits of implementing RPA in your business
According to Deloitte, the main benefits of RPA go far beyond simple cost reduction. These technologies significantly reduce cycle times and improve operational performance, while offering greater accuracy, flexibility, and scalability in business processes.
In addition, they contribute to higher employee morale, as they free teams from repetitive tasks so they can focus on higher-value activities that truly require human judgment.
This also translates into more time to drive innovation and improve the customer experience, while achieving more detailed and structured data capture.
RPA implementation process: A clear path to efficiency
Understanding the RPA implementation process helps you make decisions with greater confidence. For companies with legacy systems, the approach should be gradual and with well-defined objectives. It's not about automating everything at once, but rather starting with high-value, low-tech processes.
The ideal process includes:
- Workshops with operational and IT teams.
- Identification of repetitive tasks and clear business rules.
- Pilot testing with a bot on a specific process.
- Measuring results and fine-tuning.
- Progressive scaling.
This approach allows you to build internal confidence in automation, show tangible results, and avoid the risks associated with radical transformations.
RPA, the bridge between your present and your digital future
If your company is facing integration issues, slow processes, or reliance on manual tasks due to legacy systems, RPA is an effective, secure, and cost-effective solution. It allows you to take firm steps toward digitalization without compromising the stability of your current operations.
Whether you decide to start with an RPA consultancy, evaluate different RPA service providers, or learn more about available RPA services, the important thing is to take the first step. Robotic automation is not just a trend; it is a key tool for staying competitive in an increasingly demanding business environment.