Glossary
Robotic process automation (RPA)
Also called RPA.
Definition
Robotic process automation is software that copies the clicks and keystrokes a person makes in applications to automate repetitive, rule-based tasks.
Why it matters when you’re buying
RPA is useful where systems have no APIs, but scripted bots break when screens change and get hard to maintain at scale. Many vendors now combine RPA with AI agents, so ask which parts follow fixed rules and which make decisions.
How it relates to other terms
Agentic AI decides steps at run time where RPA follows a script, and both are often sold inside low-code automation platforms.
Where to go next
- AI Agents & Automation: news, companies and community questions
- How to evaluate AI Agents & Automation vendors: criteria, questions to ask and red flags
Written by Techarda editors · Updated . Think a definition is wrong or missing something? Email engage@techarda.com. All terms.