Should You Build or Outsource Your RPA? Here’s What to Consider

More organisations are adopting Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to streamline operations, reduce manual work, and boost productivity. One important question often arises: should you build your RPA capabilities internally or outsource them to experienced consultants? 

Both options can work, but they demand different resources and levels of commitment. Building internally gives you control and ownership, while outsourcing provides access to ready expertise and faster implementation. The right approach depends on your organisation’s priorities, budget, and timeline. The following points can help guide your decision. 

1. The Learning Curve 

Even a capable IT team faces a steep learning curve with RPA. Automation involves process mapping, workflow design, and the use of specialised software. Developing these skills in-house takes time and experimentation before achieving stable results. Working with an experienced RPA consultancy allows you to move more quickly, as consultants bring proven knowledge and tested frameworks that can be tailored to your organisation. 

2. IT Workload and Focus 

IT departments are often managing multiple responsibilities such as system maintenance, cybersecurity, and digital transformation projects. Adding automation development to this list can slow progress and stretch resources. By outsourcing, your internal team can stay focused on strategic initiatives while experts handle the automation project from design to delivery. 

3. Budget and Cost Transparency 

Internal automation projects can be difficult to budget accurately. Training, software licences, and maintenance can all add unexpected costs along the way. Outsourcing offers a clearer financial picture. With a defined project scope and measurable deliverables, you know exactly what you are paying for and can plan your investment with confidence. 

4. Maintenance and Support 

Automation is not a one-time exercise. It requires updates, licence renewals, and ongoing optimisation to remain effective. Managing these tasks internally means allocating staff to support and troubleshoot as issues arise. A consultancy can provide flexible and reliable support, ensuring your automation continues to perform smoothly and adapts as your business evolves. 

5. Experience and Best Practice 

Consultancies that specialise in RPA bring valuable insights gained from working with a wide range of industries. They have a clear understanding of what works, what to avoid, and how to implement solutions efficiently. This experience helps you avoid common pitfalls and ensures your automation delivers consistent results. 

6. Continuous Improvement 

Automation performs best when it is regularly reviewed and refined. Consultants provide monitoring tools and data-driven insights that highlight opportunities for improvement. This approach keeps your processes efficient and aligned with business goals as your organisation grows and changes. 

At Enterprise RPA, we help organisations introduce automation in a practical and sustainable way. Our consultants work closely with each client to design and deliver solutions that are efficient, scalable, and aligned with long-term objectives. 

If you would like to explore how automation could benefit your organisation, contact us now to start the conversation.