Let’s face it, the terms that describe the different types of automation can be confusing. So, let’s break it down.

Business Process Automation (BPA) is the use of technology (such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Intelligent Automation (IA), and workflow) to automate business processes. This includes the routing of information from step-to-step and the automatic processing of tasks. RPA and IA are types of BPA, though they perform separate functions on their own.

RPA, also called simple automation, is the automation of rules-based processes with structured data to facilitate the sharing of information between applications. The systems are accessed by a user account controlled by a “bot.”

IA, on the other hand, is an emerging technology that incorporates workflow, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to automate complex processes that require consideration and decision making. Check out this helpful breakdown of the terms based on data from Deloitte.