Not every process is a good first automation. The best candidates repeat often, have inputs a system can access, and have a clear definition of a correct result.
Score a candidate process against this checklist. The more boxes it ticks, the better a first project it is.
Volume and value
- The process runs at least weekly.
- It takes meaningful staff time or causes costly errors.
- Faster turnaround would matter to clients or cash flow.
Inputs and rules
- Inputs arrive digitally, such as email, PDFs, forms, or spreadsheets.
- The steps can be described, including the exceptions.
- You have at least 30 real examples, including messy ones.
Ownership and risk
- A named person owns the process and can review edge cases.
- Consequential steps can include human approval.
- The data involved can be processed under your security and privacy obligations.
Measurement
- You know how long the process takes today.
- You can define what a correct result looks like.
- You will measure accuracy and time saved after launch.
This template is general guidance, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Adapt it to your business and confirm requirements with a qualified adviser.