Automation works when the underlying process is stable. Automating an unstable workflow accelerates the chaos. Before automating, check whether the process runs the same way every time, whether the inputs are clean and predictable, whether there is a single accountable owner, and whether the exceptions that have always been handled informally have been documented so automation can route them rather than break on them.
Frequently asked questions
Is the workflow repeatable enough to automate?
If two team members would run it differently, automation will encode that ambiguity rather than resolve it. Stabilize the process first, then automate.
Why do clean inputs matter so much?
Automation amplifies the quality of its inputs. Inconsistent intake forms, missing fields, and unstructured email requests must be addressed before automation pays off.
What about the exceptions that have always been handled informally?
Document them before going live. Most workflow failure modes come from exceptions that were 'always handled informally' — make them explicit so automation can route them, not break on them.