[ Free tool · 90 s ]

What to automate first?

5-question validated framework. If the process fails in 2 or more, don't make it your first pilot — pick another.

How often does this process occur per month?
01 · VOLUME
How often do the rules / criteria change?
02 · STABILITY
Do you know current hours/cost of this process?
03 · MEASURABLE
If the system fails, what happens?
04 · REVERSIBILITY
Is there someone with decision power who wants this?
05 · SPONSOR

The 5 criteria, explained.

  • Volume · > 100 executions/month so the ROI closes in 12 months
  • Rule stability · if they change quarterly, maintenance eats the saving
  • Measurable · without known current cost, you can't justify return
  • Reversibility · irreversible processes demand oversight (more expensive)
  • Sponsor · without an owner with budget, the pilot dies from attrition
  • Score < 60 · pick another process, this one won't take off
  • Score 60-80 · viable with adjustments, review the weak points
  • Score > 80 · go ahead, likely ROI in 3-6 months
  • Apply the framework with the person who does the process today, not with the decision-maker
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