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RPA (robotic process automation) is software that repeats the actions a person performs on a computer: it opens a system, copies data, fills in forms, downloads files. An API integration, by contrast, connects two systems directly, without going through the screen. Both automate tasks; the difference lies in how they do it and in when each one is the right choice.
By LogTech® Software & Soluciones Tecnológicas · 3 min read
An RPA robot works on the application's user interface, just as a user would: it clicks, types and reads what appears on screen. You define a sequence of steps, and it runs them as many times as needed, at any hour.
Common examples in administrative departments:
An API is a door that a system provides so other systems can exchange data with it in an orderly way. An API integration sends and receives information directly between systems: when a sale is recorded, the other system receives it instantly, with validations and without depending on how the screen looks.
An API integration makes sense when the systems provide one, the volume is high, information has to travel in real time or the process is critical to operations.
RPA makes sense when the system has no API, it is a legacy system that will not be replaced soon, you need a quick solution for a specific process, or you have to work with third-party portals where there is no other option.
They are combined when a process runs through several systems and only some of them have an API. The integration is done through the API where possible, and RPA covers the remaining step.
Artificial intelligence extends what an automation can do: read documents that have no fixed format, classify emails, interpret inquiries or decide which department a case should be routed to. Combined with RPA and APIs, it makes it possible to automate complete processes, not just isolated tasks.
Short answers to the most common questions on this topic.
It replaces repetitive tasks. People remain in charge of exceptions, controls and decisions.
The robot may need to be adjusted. That is why, when an API exists, it is usually the more stable option.
Yes. It is a common strategy while a system is being modernized.
What integrating SAP with other tools involves, which methods are used (APIs, IDocs, files, RPA) and what to define before you start.
Read articleEnterprisesHow to connect project management tools with each other and with your company's systems so tasks, hours and statuses are not entered twice.
Read articleEnterprisesWhat a technology partner is, when it makes sense to outsource software development and what to agree on so the relationship works.
Read articleAt LogTech® Software & Soluciones Tecnológicas we analyze each process to choose the right technical approach: API integration, RPA, artificial intelligence or a combination. We build the automation, integrate it with your company's systems and document it so it can be maintained.
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