The root of most drawbacks and shortcomings in any workflow can be traced to human errors. Of course, no one is free from making mistakes. Everyone makes errors, from the top managers in their plush cabins to the base-level employee.
The burning question is if there is a way to combat human error. The answer is an automated workflow management system.
What causes Human Errors in the Workplace?
Errors in the workplace can be caused due to various reasons. For example, it could be due to fatigue, slips while performing repetitive tasks, oversight, misinformation, incorrect decisions, and miscommunications. While most cases are unintentional, some human errors were intentional.
A survey was conducted on human errors in the workplace. Some statistics revealed in the report were:
- 66% of the respondents agreed they made an error at work due to fatigue
- 16% said they missed deadlines.
- 25% of respondents under 45 agreed to be distracted due to social media. 9% of those over 45 years cited social media distraction.
- 41% of respondents agreed with to need to remember assigned tasks.
Combatting human error through Workflow Automation:
Many Companies have discovered that lapses due to unintentional human error are avoidable. Technology is emerging as a workflow management solution for identifying and eliminating human errors in the workplace. Human errors can be eliminated in these areas using automated workflow.
- Clearly defined tasks
An observation in the traditional workflow is a need for more clarity. Automation can take care of this to a great degree. Each task is clearly defined with detailed information about the sequence of tasks, individual assigned, priorities, and deadlines.
- Complete flow of information
Errors can result from a lack of information. Success depends on the workflow’s availability of complete and accurate data before it begins. Time is saved; thus, no clarifications are required. Work can commence with the accuracy of the data provided in the automated workflow.
- Alignment with company strategies
A workflow must be aligned with company strategies and objectives to avoid improper prioritization. An automated workflow can be set to the company’s objectives and goals. As a result, task prioritization can be done more effectively.
- Realistic deadlines
Enthusiastic employees may make errors in deadlines. While trying to please superiors, many factors may be overlooked. This leads to unrealistic delivery dates. Automation can avoid such human errors. It factors in all the available data about each task and the ideal time for completion.
- Efficient communications
Many human errors in a workflow result from a lack of communication and incorrect communication. Individual time is well-spent in sending emails and text messages. An automated workflow can be set up to send emails and push notifications to each stakeholder. Any possibility of a stakeholder not receiving communications is completely ruled out.
- Removing unnecessary communications
Many emails and messages at work need to connect with the project or the company’s objectives. Unfortunately, sifting through the inbox for relevant data takes time and effort. Thankfully, automated workflows have communication systems that filter out the trash and allow only workflow-related data to pass.
- Retrieving Data
Managers and employees involved in the traditional workflow must remember a lot. This pressure clogs the mind and hampers the flow of creativity. In addition, errors can happen due to invalid information inputs. Automation takes this burden off the mind. All data regarding the workflow is readily available. It can be retrieved at the click of a button.
- Accurate reporting
Errors in reports are expected. Thankfully automated workflows have integrated systems that allow accurate reports to be generated.
- Enhanced performance
Each task in a workflow is subject to individual performance. Errors happen when tasks are not assigned to the right people. Automated workflows integrate individual knowledge, skills, strengths, and weaknesses. Each task is entrusted to the most capable person, thus enhancing performance.
Conclusion:
Even the slightest human error can lead to enormous disasters for an enterprise. As a result, companies are now relying on an effective workflow management solution. Workflow automation is evolving at a fast rate. Advances in technology are helping to identify and eliminate human errors. The result is a workflow that is more efficient and productive.
