Towards a Theory on Process Automation Effects

2025-03-25

arXiv.org

AI Summary

Prior research predominantly focuses on the design and deployment of process automation, neglecting its real-world operational impacts after implementation. Method: This paper addresses this gap through a systematic literature review of human–machine collaboration, constructing the first theoretical framework specifically for *in-production* process automation. It proposes a novel four-part dynamic co-adaptation model—comprising technology, participants, managers, and developers—that transcends traditional binary (human/machine) analytical paradigms. Leveraging cross-domain theoretical integration and conceptual modeling, the study establishes a transferable framework for evaluating automation outcomes. Contribution/Results: The framework yields actionable pathways for organizational optimization of automation practices and identifies several novel research questions, thereby advancing a coherent, systemic research agenda for in-production automation in both academia and practice.

Technology Category

• Humans and AI: Planning and Decision Support for Human-Machine Teams
• Cognitive Modeling & Cognitive Systems: Adaptive Behavior
• Multiagent Systems: Coordination and Collaboration

Application Category

• Responsible Web: Machine-in-the-loop, human agency and autonomy
• Economics, Online Markets and Human Computation: Cost models of using LLMs in production systems
• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: Practical large-scale studies of user experience

Abstract

Process automation is a crucial strategy for improving business processes, but little attention has been paid to the effects that automation has once it is operational. This paper addresses this research problem by reviewing the literature on human-automation interaction. Although many of the studies in this field have been conducted in different domains, they provide a foundation for developing propositions about process automation effects. Our analysis focuses on how humans perceive automation technology when working within a process, allowing us to propose an effective engagement model between technology, process participants, process managers, and software developers. This paper offers insights and recommendations that can help organizations optimize their use of process automation. We further derive novel research questions for a discourse within the process automation community.

Problem

• Study effects of operational process automation on businesses
• Analyze human perception of automation in workflows
• Propose engagement model for stakeholders in automation

Innovation

• Reviewing human-automation interaction literature
• Proposing effective engagement model for automation
• Deriving novel research questions for automation