What are the key differences between cognitive automation and RPA?

Ease & Usability
- RPA tools perform simple tasks, to reduce the copious amount of tedious, repetitive tasks carried out by humans.
- - Cognitive automation is designed to function similarly to human thoughts and subsequent actions to organize and analyze the more complex data with accuracy and consistency.

Scope
- RPA utilizes structured data to execute monotonous human tasks that are rules-based and do not require cognitive thinking (e.g. responding to inquiries, performing calculations, and managing records and transactions).
- Cognitive automation uses artificial intelligence techniques that imitate the way humans think, analyzing intricate, unstructured data to perform non-routine tasks. It enhances human decision-making and involves cognitive abilities such as natural language processing, context-based decision-making, and engaging in conversations.

Methodology & Processing Capabilities
- RPA utilizes basic technologies that are easy to understand and implement. It is rule-based, does not require extensive coding, and employs an ‘if-then’ method to processes.
- Cognitive automation is a knowledge-based approach, using advanced technologies like data mining, text analytics, and machine learning to take complex data and make it easier for humans to make better, more intuitive business decisions.

Benefits
- RPA supports innovation by taking over the repetitive tasks, freeing up employee time for more cognitive tasks. It increases productivity, reduces the cost of testing new ideas, reduces attrition by lessening the amount of tedious work for employees, and ultimately provides for a higher-level customer experience.
- Cognitive automation is pre-trained and needs less data before making an impact. It supplies cognitive input to humans, adding to their own analytical capabilities, and does not require assistance from data scientists or IT. As new data comes in, connections form automatically so the system can continuously learn and adjust to new information.