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Tech glossary

Defining IT & technology terms

Automation

Automation describes a process of minimizing the human input required to accomplish a task. This can be done digitally using applications, programing or scripts. Businesses use automation to deliver products and services faster. The manufacturing industry has been a long-time automation user, applying it to product fabrication and assembly. Software algorithms have expanded automation adoption to many digital tasks.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning make it easy to use automation in today’s digital-first environments. Many practical automation use cases involve data management — entering, cleansing or analyzing data. You can also automate decision-making based on defined conditions.

While automation offers many potential solutions to complex issues, it’s most effective for mundane and routine tasks. This helps increase efficiency and accuracy, so that employees can spend more time on strategic work.

Learn more about automation

Related terms

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • DevOps
  • Digital Innovation
  • Intelligent edge
  • Machine learning

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