Robotic Process Automation as an administrative aid: The utilization of RPA to manage supporting business processes for self-employed craftsmen

Abstract: Technological advancements continue to drive changes in our modern society. To keep up with these changes, it is of utter importance to stay competitive, whilst remaining flexible enough to be prepared for future changes. A sector which has struggled in this aspect, traditionally, is self-employed craftsmen - individuals who run a business based upon an aptitude for their trade. This study focuses on Robotic Process Automation, and how it can be adapted by this target group, aiding them with administrative tasks and making their work more efficient in the process. To conduct this research, we performed a literature review, combined with a qualitative data analysis of empirical data, collected through interviews held with relevant informants. The results indicate that RPA could be a suitable solution to aid this type of craftsmen, helping them overcome their hesitancy and lack of knowledge, through the ease of application, and providing other various benefits associated with RPA, including increased efficiency of supporting business processes.