In layman’s term, it’s exactly what its name suggests: automating processes using robots.
(Now, of course, don’t get the idea of human-like robots doing the daily choirs. At its basic, they are simply software that is powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning.)
Here’s a very common example…
These days when you visit websites, you’ve likely seen a chat box sitting somewhere in the bottom right corner of your screen.
When it pushes you messages, it’s not coming from a real human. It’s coming from a (smart) bot. It can help you navigate and find answers to your questions.
Also read: How banks can benefit from Robotic Process Automation (RPA) technology?
The built-in assistants we have in our phones, powered by AI and Machine Learning – even that comes under the label of robotic automation. It can perform many actions without your manual handling. For instance, if you say a “trigger word”, per your default selection, it can turn your alarm on, send a message, turn the phone in flight mode, turn off the internet, and more.
Another common example is social media posts automation. If you use Facebook, you would know that you can now automate your posts. Meaning, you can schedule your posts in one-sit – when will they get published! (Try it now!)
There are many examples of robotic automation, which is nothing more than asking a piece of technology to perform a task automatically. You’re automating the process. It, evidently, saves your time, bring more efficiency; and you enjoy higher convenient. (It’s like very, very mediocre butler working for you!)
Robotic automation is primarily employed in the business world. However, as its scope progresses, as artificial intelligence and machine learning gets more efficient, we would definitely see advanced and automated technology in many different segments, including our personal lives.
Hopefully this answers your question.