The Best Process Automation Tools for Small Businesses: A Comparison

Process automation tools are capable of automating most of your company’s operations. 

They also centralize information, making it easy for everyone to access it quickly.

Automations can even remove bottlenecks and reduce errors.

This page will guide you through the best process automation tools available and help you choose the best one for you. 

Best process automation tools

Process Street

Is the interface user-friendly interface? 

Yes, both for beginners and for advanced users  

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity? 

Can handle all processes

Is support available?

Yes, there is comprehensive Help Center available, FAQs, along with email and chat support

Are integrations available?

Yes, thousands

Personalizable?

Yes

Features:

• Best process automation tools for small businesses
• Process automation tools for HR departments
• Scalable process automation tools for growing businesses
• Integrated process automation tools for CRM

Pros:

• A cloud-based solution
• No-code
• Doesn’t store data in a database making it more secure
• Robust and efficient to use

Cons:

• Can take some learning to understand how to use all the tools and features

UiPath

Is the interface user-friendly interface? 

Yes, especially good for beginners 

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity? 

It can handle all processes

Is support available?

Yes, there are video tutorials, community forums, and over-the-phone support

Are integrations available?

Yes

Personalizable?

Somewhat

Features: 

• Affordable process automation tools for startups
• Process automation tools with strong customer support
• Easy-to-use process automation tools for non-technical teams

Pros:

• Low-code
• Free for individuals (so can easily be tested before purchase) 
• Drag-and-drop features

Cons:

• Cannot be fully customized

Blue Prism

Is the interface user-friendly interface? 

Yes, for developers

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity? 

It can handle most processes

Is support available?

Yes, there are video tutorials, guides, and over the email support

Are integrations available?

Yes

Personalizable?

Yes

Features:

• Process automation tools with advanced analytics capabilities
• Process automation tools for project management

Pros:

• Very reliable
• Comes with security for network credentials
• Can be used on any platform

Cons:

• Not for beginners since it requires programming skills
• Expensive at $ 15000 per annum 

Automation Anywhere

Is the interface user-friendly interface? 

Yes, both for beginners and for advanced users 

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity? 

It can handle many processes

Is support available?

Yes, there are video tutorials  available 

Are integrations available?

Yes

Personalizable?

No

Features: 

• Top process automation tools for workflow management
• Process automation tools with advanced analytics capabilities
• Process automation tools for project management

Pros:

• Real-time analytics
• Powerful security through encryption and authentication options 
• Applicable to multiple industries especially those relying on security 

Cons:

• Interface could be improved

Pega

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity?

Yes, it’s capable of complex processes.

Is support available?

Yes, Pega provides support.

Are integrations available?

Yes, it supports integrations.

Personalizable?

Yes, highly customizable.

Features:

BPM, RPA, AI, case management.

Pros:

• End-to-end automation capabilities

• Low-code options.
  

Cons:

• Costly

• Requires Pega expertise.
  

Nintex

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity?

Yes, it can handle various processes.
Is support available?

Yes, Nintex offers support.
Are integrations available?

Yes, it supports integrations.

Personalizable?

Yes, customizable workflows.
Features:

• Workflow automation

• Document generation

Pros:

• User-friendly

• SharePoint integration

Cons:

• Limited advanced AI capabilities

Appian

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity?

Yes, it handles complex processes.

Is support available?

Yes, Appian provides support.

Are integrations available?

Yes, it supports integrations.

Personalizable?

Yes, customizable low-code platform.

Features:

BPM, case management, low-code development.

Pros:

• Low-code, easy to use

Cons:

• Limited advanced AI, pricing can be high

Microsoft Power Automate

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity?

Yes, for a wide range of processes.
Is support available?

Yes, Microsoft offers support.
Are integrations available?

Yes, extensive integrations.
Personalizable?

Yes, customizable workflows.
Features:

• Workflow automation

• Connectors to Microsoft products

Pros:

Integration with Microsoft ecosystem, user-friendly
Cons:

May lack advanced AI capabilities

Zapier

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity?

Yes, for simpler automation.
Is support available?

Yes, with paid plans.
Are integrations available?

Yes, extensive integrations.
Personalizable?

Yes, customizable workflows.

Features:

• Connects web apps

• Automates tasks

Pros:

• User-friendly

• Broad app support

Cons:

• Limited complex automation capabilities

Kissflow

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity?

Yes, for various processes.
Is support available?

Yes, Kissflow offers support.
Are integrations available?

Yes, integrations are available.
Personalizable?

Yes, customizable workflows.

Features:

• BPM

• Workflow automation

• Forms
  

Pros:

• User-friendly

• Affordable
  

Cons:

• Limited AI capabilities

WorkFusion

Can it handle any process irrespective of complexity?

Yes, especially for data-centric processes.
Is support available?

Yes, WorkFusion provides support.
Are integrations available?

Yes, it supports integrations.
Personalizable?

Yes, customizable RPA solutions.

Features:

• RPA

• AI

• Data extraction
  

Pros:

• Strong data automation capabilities

• Machine learning

Cons:

• May require technical expertise

What is a process automation tool?

You can use a process automation tool to automate nearly all aspects of your business and in all departments.

These tools can handle complex processes critical for your company to grow.

Types of process automation tools

Essentially, there are three types of automation tools you should be aware of:

• Macros
• Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
• IT Process Automation (ITPA)

The process management software you end up choosing depends on your company’s needs and size, but here’s how they differ.

Macros

Macros date back to when Excel was born.

These very basic tools don’t do well with large sets of data. Instead, they can create spreadsheets, shortcuts, and remove duplicates.

This makes them not only the easiest of the three but also the less capable.

RPA

These process automation tools are quite easy to use and perfect for beginners.

They are no-code and rely on their drag-and-drop functionality. This means that everyone in your company can benefit from using them.

RPAs are especially useful in running all day-to-day company processes. From opening emails, building a workflow, and monitoring security systems, RPAs are a great all-rounder. 

ITPA

ITPAs are particularly popular in the IT sector. 

They differ from RPAs because RPAs can automate a large variety of daily processes without using advanced techniques. 

ITPAs are capable of automating all processes, including very complex ones. For example, ITPAs can handle, monitor, and configure virtual servers.

Key process automation tool features

We’ve created a list of the 5 process automation features all tools should have: 

High usability

Your tool of choice adds value immediately. It should also be able to handle multiple processes with ease. Ensure that you can utilize the tool throughout your organization and on a day-to-day basis. 

Integration with third-party apps 

Look for tools that offer as many integrations as possible. This will make your life much easier because it will eliminate having to jump from one app to the next.

User-friendliness

It should go without saying, but a good automation tool should have a clear and user-friendly interface.

Support 

Any tool you ever buy should come with added support. Whether it’s phone or email-based, adequate support should always be available. 

Dynamic and personalizable

You’ll want a process automation tool that you can personalize to meet your needs. Find one that is as visually appealing as it is customizable. 

How to use process automation tools

Here are our top tips for implementing and using process automation tools effectively:

Make a list of all processes that need re-designing

This will allow you to analyze your business requirements and clarify what needs to be automated first.

Assess all the available tools

Make sure to read as much about their features as possible. Verify which tools fit your business objectives. 

Choose the right tool

Only choose the tool that offers adequate support and a knowledge base. You don’t want to buy software that delivers no training on how to use it.

Test, test, test

Before implementing any changes, ensure you test them first. And keep in mind that it may take some time for the results to show. Sometimes you’ll have to keep tweaking things until they start working as expected.

Process automation tools testimonials

Below you’ll find testimonials from some of our clients that have successfully used Process Street to automate their work:

“Very user-friendly. Workflow automatization is a great tool. I love how you can schedule the workflow runs and it reminds you when it needs to be run. We use checklists daily to ensure we comply with our business needs.”

Ebano C., Senior IT Support (medium business)

“Straightforward interface and a great set of tools to help map processes. I like the conditional logic feature, which allows you to hide or show elements of the process based on the options/outcomes you choose.”

Matthew P., Strategic Account Manager (small business)

“I love how Process Street makes it so straightforward, especially when it comes to highly detailed work like onboarding new staff and other similar processes. You can modify their pre-made templates to suit your needs or build your own from scratch.”

Sam O., Regional Property Management Director (small business) 

Benefits of process automation tools

Deciding on an automation tool can be tricky, as there are many currently on offer.

So before you take your pick, ensure that it fits with your business objectives. And you can also take advantage of our must-have features list to help you select the best tool.

But what are the benefits of using process automation tools?

Here are just a few:

• They boost productivity by passing on tasks to robots
• They save costs by eliminating the time spent on repetitive tasks
• They reduce errors by avoiding manual data entry
• They increase productivity by letting employees focus on important issues

Advantages and disadvantages of business process automation tools

Business process automation tools offer numerous advantages for organizations looking to streamline their operations and improve efficiency.

These tools enable businesses to automate repetitive tasks, saving time and reducing errors.

With features like robotic process automation, complex workflows can be automated, freeing up human resources for more important tasks.

Additionally, business process automation tools often offer robust third-party integrations, allowing seamless connectivity with other essential software and systems.

Disadvantages

While business process automation tools offer significant advantages, there can be drawbacks as well.

Some complex business processes may be difficult to automate completely, requiring human intervention in certain cases.

The initial setup and implementation of these tools can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.

Additionally, the cost of acquiring and maintaining business process automation software may be a consideration for some organizations.

Users may also face a learning curve when familiarizing themselves with these tools, and ongoing training and support may be needed.

Finally, integrating automation tools with legacy systems can present challenges, requiring additional customization and development efforts.

Despite these potential disadvantages, the benefits of business process automation tools, such as improved operational efficiency and greater return on investment, often outweigh the drawbacks for organizations looking to optimize their processes and enhance their overall performance.

Considerations for implementing a business process automation tool

Implementing a business process automation tool is a strategic decision that can greatly benefit organizations by streamlining operations and improving efficiency.

However, there are several considerations that need to be taken into account to ensure a successful implementation.

1. Identifying repetitive tasks

Before implementing a business process automation tool, it is crucial to identify the repetitive tasks within an organization.

By automating these tasks, businesses can free up valuable time and resources, allowing employees to focus on more strategic initiatives.

2. Integrating with existing systems

Another important consideration is the ability of the automation tool to seamlessly integrate with existing systems.

This ensures that data can be easily shared across platforms, eliminating the need for manual data entry and reducing errors.

3. Customization for complex workflows

Automation tools should have the capability to handle complex workflows and accommodate the unique processes of different business units.

Customization options, such as drag-and-drop interfaces and rule-based logic, allow businesses to tailor the tool to their specific requirements.

4. User-friendly interface

A user-friendly interface is essential for the successful adoption of a business process automation tool.

Non-technical users should be able to easily understand and navigate the tool without the need for extensive training.

5. Real-time data and analytics

A robust automation tool should provide real-time data and analytics to enable organizations to monitor and optimize their processes.

This data-driven approach allows for greater visibility into operations, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and continuously improve their workflows.

Identifying the right platform for your organization’s needs

When identifying the right platform for your organization’s needs, several factors must be considered.

These factors will help ensure that the chosen platform aligns with your specific requirements and objectives.

Consider the nature of business processes

Firstly, consider the nature of your business processes.

Some organizations may have simple and repetitive tasks that need automation, while others may have complex workflows requiring advanced capabilities.

Assessing the complexity and variety of your business processes will help you determine the level of automation and the features you need from a platform.

Technical expertise of your team

Secondly, consider the technical expertise of your team.

Some platforms require coding or automation expertise, while others offer a user-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionalities.

Assessing the level of technical expertise within your organization will help you select a platform that matches the skills of your team members.

What features do you need?

Next, consider the desired features and capabilities.

Each platform may offer a wide range of features, such as real-time data, task assignments, third-party integrations, and customer experience management. Evaluating your organization’s specific requirements will help you choose a platform that meets your desired feature set.

Ultimately, identifying the right platform for your organization’s needs requires carefully evaluating factors such as business processes, technical expertise, and desired features.

By considering these factors and exploring the capabilities of different automation tools, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your organization’s goals and ensures a successful digital transformation.