Systems & Technology Selection Methodology
AIA's structured approach to selecting business-process-automation and workflow tools, running from process-type classification through selection-criteria design to a shortlisted, criteria-scored tool recommendation.
What it is
A six-step technology-selection method: classify target processes (peripheral vs functional vs enabling); identify the audience and requirements; define automation-type criteria (Basic Automation, Business Process Automation, Robotic Process Automation, Integration Automation); build weighted selection criteria (functional, ease-of-use, technical/implementation); shortlist candidate tools; and recommend based on pricing, technical alignment and architecture fit.
Problem it solves
Prevents technology selection being driven by vendor familiarity rather than a defensible, criteria-based comparison tied to real process needs.
When to use
- A client needs to select a business-process-automation, RPA or workflow tool
- A systems specification exercise precedes a digital transformation or IT strategy programme
Key questions
- Who are the tools for, and what are the target processes?
- What are the functional, ease-of-use and technical/implementation requirements?
- Which tools meet the selection criteria on pricing, functionality and architecture alignment?
Inputs
- Process inventory classified as peripheral, functional or enabling
- Existing technology landscape and architecture principles
- Budget and pricing constraints
Steps
- 1Classify processesDistinguish peripheral processes (fill gaps between systems) from functional/core processes (served by ERP/CRM) and enabling processes (internal value, e.g. HR/finance).
- 2Answer the who and the whatIdentify the audience for the tools and the target processes for automation.
- 3Define selection criteriaScore candidate tools against functional (workflow, forms, document storage, audit trail, reporting), ease-of-use, and technical/implementation (data validation, integration, scalability, security) criteria.
- 4Shortlist and recommendShortlist tools based on preliminary fit, then recommend based on pricing, technical alignment and architecture fit.
Outputs
- Weighted tool-selection criteria matrix
- Shortlisted and recommended tool(s)