Business automation opportunities to enhance collaboration in automated and virtual environments

Abstract: Allocating automation can be challenging. There are many instances where humans perform better than automation. However, businesses have many opportunities to automate and support humans to achieve more. There are many reasons why enterprises automate. Researchers have found that automation makes sense for tasks that are impossible or hazardous, difficult or unpleasant, and to extend human capabilities. Sometimes, people automate just because it is technically possible. Automation only makes sense when it is supporting the human. Different levels of automation, transitions, or reskilling of the workforce with environments that facilitate their work can benefit the business and the employee's well-being. As technology evolves, it is essential to understand areas where companies will benefit from some of these technologies. Retaining humans in the loop is a crucial factor in enhancing automated systems. One of the existing challenges is the required involvement in the workflow or process. Sometimes, there needs to be a group collaboration of humans when there are events that are unexpected and need adjustment. Dealing with abnormal situations would require innovative ways to unite people within the automation flow through virtual environments, digital twins, and other spaces supporting instantaneous remote collaboration. This paper provides examples of business opportunities to automate and make processes more efficient, effective, and satisfactory. It includes business case examples for digital twins, digital humans, generative AI, and metaverse. It will also mention future challenges with automation and possibilities for revaluation of its function allocation. In particular, it will refer to the importance of user-centred research in supporting business automation delivery of future systems.

Keywords: Automation, virtual environments, digital twins, digital humans, Generative AI, Metaverse

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004447

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