Workflow automation replaces manual handoffs with defined steps that run reliably. Traditional automation follows explicit rules. AI-assisted automation adds the ability to read unstructured inputs, such as emails and documents, and to draft or classify content.
The best candidates are processes that repeat often, have clear inputs, and have a measurable definition of done. Exceptions should go to a person, every automated action should be logged, and the process owner should be able to see and adjust how it works.