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10 strategies and tactics for Automation

What is Automation strategy?

Every great achievement starts with a well-thought-out plan. It can be the launch of a new product, expanding into new markets, or just trying to increase efficiency. You'll need a delicate combination of strategies and tactics to ensure that the journey is smooth and effective.

Finding the right Automation strategy can seem daunting, particularly when you're focused on your daily workload. For this reason, we've compiled a selection of examples to fuel your inspiration.

Copy these examples into your preferred tool, or utilize Tability to ensure you remain accountable.

How to write your own Automation strategy with AI

While we have some examples available, it's likely that you'll have specific scenarios that aren't covered here. You can use our free AI generator below or our more complete goal-setting system to generate your own strategies.

Automation strategy examples

We've added many examples of Automation tactics, including a series of action items. We hope that this will make these examples as practical and useful as possible.

Strategies and tactics for improving automation test coverage

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Perform a thorough test case analysis

    • Review all existing 2000 test cases to identify candidates for automation
    • Prioritise test cases based on critical functionality and high usage
    • Classify test cases into categories such as functional, integration, and regression tests
    • Evaluate test cases for complexity and likelihood of frequent execution
    • Set up a scoring system to rank test cases for automation suitability
    • Document the rationale for choosing or excluding test cases from automation
    • Identify dependencies between test cases that may affect automation
    • Consider existing manual test documentation to aid the automation process
    • Finalise a list of at least 1000 test cases for potential automation
    • Seek approval from stakeholders on the selected test cases for automation

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Develop a resource and timeline plan

    • Estimate the average time required to automate a single test case
    • Calculate the total effort required to automate 1000 test cases
    • Assess the current capacity of the AQA engineer
    • Determine the feasibility of hiring additional AQA engineers or outsourcing
    • Develop a phased approach to incrementally increase automation coverage
    • Allocate specific test cases to be automated in each 2-week sprint
    • Set milestones for achieving 10%, 25%, and 50% automation coverage
    • Regularly review and adjust the timeline based on progress and resource availability
    • Include buffer time for resolving unforeseen challenges
    • Share the resource and timeline plan with the project team and stakeholders

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Ensure adequate tools and infrastructure

    • Evaluate and select appropriate automation tools that support the chosen test cases
    • Set up and configure test environments to facilitate smooth automation
    • Ensure continuous integration (CI) systems are in place for automated test execution
    • Develop a process for maintaining and updating test scripts
    • Create a backup plan for test data and scripts to avoid loss
    • Establish version control practices for test cases and automation scripts
    • Integrate reporting tools to track automation progress and results
    • Conduct regular training sessions for the AQA engineer on new tools and best practices
    • Plan for periodic code reviews to ensure the quality of automated scripts
    • Set up communication channels for quick resolution of technical issues
automationtest-coverageautomation-quality-assurance-engineerstakeholderquality-assurance-teamproject-management-team
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Strategies and tactics for leveraging Automation Technologies

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement robotics and machinery automation

    • Identify tasks suitable for robots and automated machinery
    • Source reputable vendors for robotic and automation solutions
    • Develop a training programme for workers to operate new technologies
    • Integrate robotics with existing project management systems
    • Conduct pilot tests to ensure smooth integration
    • Evaluate performance through key performance indicators (KPIs)
    • Collect feedback from workers and stakeholders
    • Adjust processes based on feedback and performance analysis
    • Schedule regular maintenance for all automated machinery
    • Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Utilise project management software

    • Identify project management software with automation features
    • Provide training for team members on using the software
    • Automate task allocation and scheduling using the software
    • Utilise automated progress tracking and reporting tools
    • Integrate the software with other existing systems
    • Set up automated alerts for deadlines and key milestones
    • Regularly review software usage and update as necessary
    • Encourage team-wide adoption through incentives and support
    • Collect data and analyse project performance metrics
    • Continuously improve processes based on data insights

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Implement drone technology for site monitoring and surveying

    • Conduct a feasibility study for drone usage on the project site
    • Source high-quality drones and appropriate software
    • Train personnel in drone operation and data analysis
    • Establish protocols for regular drone flights and data collection
    • Integrate drone data with project management systems
    • Utilise drones for real-time progress monitoring
    • Conduct routine surveys for accurate site measurements
    • Use drone images and data to improve site planning and logistics
    • Monitor and document safety compliance through drone footage
    • Analyse data collected to identify areas for improvement
automationefficiencyproject-managerautomation-specialistconstruction-teamit-support-team
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Strategies and tactics for automating affiliate marketing for free

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Leverage social media platforms

    • Identify the most relevant social media platforms for your niche
    • Create engaging and valuable content related to your affiliate products
    • Use scheduling tools to automate and plan regular posts
    • Join relevant groups and communities to share insights
    • Develop a consistent posting schedule and stick to it
    • Engage with followers and respond to comments to build relationships
    • Use analytics tools to measure the success of your posts
    • A/B test different types of content to determine what works best
    • Utilise trending topics to create timely content
    • Use hashtags effectively to increase the visibility of your posts

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Optimise search engine presence

    • Conduct keyword research to find phrases with low competition
    • Create high-quality blog posts optimised for chosen keywords
    • Utilise free SEO tools to analyse website performance
    • Build backlinks by guest blogging on related sites
    • Use internal linking to guide visitor navigation
    • Ensure website is mobile-friendly to capture a wider audience
    • Update content regularly to maintain relevance
    • Submit your site to search engine directories
    • Optimise meta tags and descriptions for better search visibility
    • Create an XML sitemap to help search engines index your site

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Use email marketing effectively

    • Build an email list using free lead magnet incentives
    • Segment your email list based on subscribers' interests
    • Create a series of automated emails using a free email marketing service
    • Write compelling subject lines to increase open rates
    • Include affiliate links subtly within the email content
    • Provide valuable content within emails to build trust
    • Analise email performance to adjust strategies accordingly
    • Encourage subscribers to share your emails for wider reach
    • Ensure emails are concise and visually appealing
    • Use storytelling techniques to engage subscribers
affiliate-marketingautomationsocial-media-managerseo-specialistcontent-creation-teamdigital-marketing-team
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Strategies and tactics for implementing automation to streamline existing processes

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Assess current processes

    • Identify key processes ripe for automation
    • Map out each identified process in detail
    • Evaluate current pain points and inefficiencies
    • Determine the potential impact of automation on each process
    • Conduct a cost-benefit analysis for automating each process
    • Gather input and feedback from team members involved in these processes
    • Compile a list of automation requirements and tools needed
    • Set objectives and key performance indicators for automation
    • Prioritise processes based on impact and feasibility
    • Create a project plan with timelines and milestones

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Select and implement automation tools

    • Research available automation tools and platforms
    • Request demos and trials from vendors
    • Assess the ease of integration with existing systems
    • Evaluate the scalability and flexibility of each tool
    • Check for user-friendliness and required technical expertise
    • Select the most suitable tools based on evaluation criteria
    • Develop a detailed implementation plan
    • Configure and customise tools as per requirements
    • Conduct pilot tests on selected processes
    • Roll out the tools across all identified processes

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Train staff and optimise processes

    • Develop comprehensive training materials for staff
    • Schedule and conduct training sessions
    • Provide ongoing support and troubleshooting for staff
    • Set up a feedback mechanism for continuous improvement
    • Monitor and assess the performance of automated processes
    • Make necessary adjustments to optimise automation
    • Continuously review and refine automation strategies
    • Explore opportunities for further automation
    • Track key performance indicators and measure results
    • Report the outcomes and benefits of automation to stakeholders
automationefficiencyproject-managerit-specialistoperations-teamit-team
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Strategies and tactics for supporting business growth in banking

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement scalable IT infrastructure

    • Assess current IT infrastructure capacity and identify scalability needs
    • Develop a roadmap for IT infrastructure expansion
    • Invest in cloud-based solutions to accommodate growth
    • Ensure data storage solutions are scalable and secure
    • Establish a proactive monitoring system for infrastructure capacity
    • Regularly review and update hardware and software components
    • Implement redundancy and failover systems to ensure reliability
    • Ensure seamless integration with existing IT systems
    • Train IT staff on managing and scaling tech infrastructure
    • Develop partnerships with technology providers for scalable solutions

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Adopt agile methodologies

    • Introduce agile training programs for staff
    • Set up cross-functional agile teams to work on projects
    • Implement iterative development processes for quick adaptation
    • Use agile tools and software for project management
    • Establish clear communication channels within agile teams
    • Evaluate and adjust agile processes regularly for improvement
    • Implement feedback loops to incorporate user input effectively
    • Encourage experimentation and learning from failures
    • Set measurable goals and track progress in agile projects
    • Share agile success stories to promote the approach internally

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Leverage data analytics for business expansion

    • Implement advanced data analytics tools for insight generation
    • Establish data governance policies to ensure data quality
    • Conduct market analysis to identify growth opportunities
    • Use customer data to personalize products and services
    • Analyze operational data to improve business processes
    • Hire data analysts and data scientists to interpret data efficiently
    • Regularly review data analytics outputs to refine business strategies
    • Develop a data-centric culture within the organization
    • Strategically align data capabilities with business objectives
    • Invest in technology that supports real-time data processing
scalabilityagile-developmentdata-scientistit-infrastructure-manageragile-development-teamdata-analytics-team
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Strategies and tactics for creating efficiencies through artificial intelligence

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Analyse existing processes

    • Conduct a comprehensive review of current workflows
    • Identify repetitive and time-consuming tasks suitable for automation
    • Identify key performance metrics to monitor improvements
    • Engage with team members to understand pain points in current processes
    • Evaluate the potential for AI to enhance decision-making processes
    • Consult with AI experts to assess the suitability of AI technologies
    • Prioritise processes with the highest potential for efficiency gains
    • Map out the current process flowcharts for clarity
    • Identify potential challenges and constraints in AI implementation
    • Set clear AI implementation goals aligned with business objectives

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Integrate AI tools

    • Research and select AI tools that align with identified needs
    • Develop a timeline for the phased integration of AI tools
    • Test AI tools with a pilot programme to ensure compatibility
    • Train staff on new AI technologies and their benefits
    • Integrate AI tools into existing systems and processes
    • Regularly collect feedback from users on AI tool performance
    • Monitor key performance metrics to assess the impact
    • Make iterative improvements based on user feedback
    • Ensure robust data security and compliance with AI tools
    • Document lessons learned and best practices

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Foster a culture of innovation

    • Encourage team members to suggest AI applications
    • Establish innovation workshops to generate AI ideas
    • Create a dedicated innovation task force for AI projects
    • Provide continuous training on emerging AI trends
    • Celebrate successes and recognise innovative peers
    • Promote cross-departmental collaboration for AI projects
    • Incorporate AI innovation goals into personal development plans
    • Provide incentives for teams that successfully implement AI
    • Conduct regular brainstorming sessions on AI advancements
    • Embed AI thinking in strategic planning across the organisation
efficiencyautomationai-consultantoperations-managerit-support-teaminnovation-task-force
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Strategies and tactics for automating third-party migration

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Develop and implement a user-friendly migration toolkit

    • Research common integration challenges faced by 3rd party users
    • Design an intuitive user interface for the migration toolkit
    • Incorporate automated data validation checks within the tool
    • Develop comprehensive user guides and tutorials
    • Integrate a feedback mechanism for continuous improvement
    • Pilot the toolkit with a selected group of 3rd party users
    • Adjust the toolkit based on pilot feedback
    • Ensure cross-platform compatibility of the toolkit
    • Train support staff to assist users during migration
    • Launch the toolkit with a marketing campaign to increase awareness

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Create a comprehensive self-service knowledge base

    • Gather FAQs and common issues from current 3rd party migrations
    • Develop step-by-step guides for each stage of the migration process
    • Incorporate video tutorials for visual learners
    • Implement a searchable database for ease of information retrieval
    • Provide regular updates with new information and solutions
    • Encourage user contributions to the knowledge base
    • Establish a community forum for peer-to-peer support
    • Monitor common queries to identify areas needing more detailed guides
    • Incorporate AI to suggest relevant articles based on user queries
    • Promote the knowledge base through regular communications

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Enhance API capabilities for seamless integration

    • Audit current APIs for performance and potential optimisations
    • Work with 3rd party developers to identify necessary API features
    • Implement robust security measures for data integrity
    • Provide comprehensive API documentation with examples
    • Offer sandbox environments for API testing and experimentation
    • Introduce versioning to manage and maintain API updates
    • Implement webhook support for real-time integration updates
    • Develop SDKs in popular programming languages to facilitate ease of use
    • Monitor usage metrics and identify potential bottlenecks
    • Iterate on API enhancements based on user feedback and industry trends
automationintegrationdevelopersupport-staffapi-teamuser-experience-team
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Strategies and tactics for processing Overdue Account Credits

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Prioritise accounts by credit age

    • Sort the 3,000 accounts based on the age of the credit
    • Create three priority tiers: high (over 90 days), medium (60-90 days), low (below 60 days)
    • Start processing high-priority accounts first
    • Develop a timeline to address each tier within set deadlines
    • Assign team members specific tiers to focus their efforts
    • Hold weekly meetings to monitor progress across tiers
    • Use collections software to automate status alerts on overdue credits
    • Identify patterns or common reasons for overpayment to inform future prevention
    • Implement feedback mechanisms to improve the prioritisation process
    • Set monthly goals for reducing the high-priority account list

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enhance stakeholder communication

    • Send out communication templates to clients explaining the overpayment/credits
    • Offer multiple channels for customers to communicate back (email, phone, chat)
    • Assign a dedicated team to handle queries related to these accounts
    • Provide a clear timeline for the resolution of each case
    • Use CRM tools to record customer communications systematically
    • Update account statuses based on customer feedback immediately
    • Provide training for staff on handling sensitive customer interactions
    • Review all communications weekly to ensure clarity and consistency
    • Create FAQ guides for customer service representatives
    • Set KPI for customer response rates and satisfaction

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Automate the credit reconciliation process

    • Invest in a system that reconciles overpayments against account transactions automatically
    • Set up alerts for when new overpayments or credits occur
    • Use the system to identify discrepancies quickly
    • Integrate this system with current financial and collection software
    • Train staff on how to use new automation tools effectively
    • Monitor automated reports on account status daily
    • Establish a protocol for exceptions or manual interventions
    • Coordinate with IT to maintain system security and efficiency
    • Conduct quarterly audits of system performance
    • Report system benefits and ROI to management to validate investment
credit-managementautomationcollections-analystcustomer-service-representativeit-supportfinancial-reconciliation-team
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Strategies and tactics for improving HR Effectiveness

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Automate HR processes

    • Implement a comprehensive HR software
    • Digitise employee records and documents
    • Automate time-off requests and approvals
    • Streamline payroll processing with automated systems
    • Set up automated reminders for compliance deadlines
    • Create standardised templates for routine HR communications
    • Use applicant tracking systems for recruitment
    • Automate employee onboarding processes
    • Integrate performance management tools
    • Schedule regular training for HR staff on new technologies

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enhance employee engagement

    • Conduct regular employee satisfaction surveys
    • Organise team-building activities and events
    • Implement a recognition and rewards programme
    • Offer flexible working arrangements
    • Establish clear career progression paths
    • Provide opportunities for skills development and training
    • Create a feedback loop for continuous improvement
    • Develop a wellness programme to support employee health
    • Encourage open and transparent communication
    • Appoint HR liaisons as points of contact for employee concerns

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Improve recruitment efficiency and effectiveness

    • Develop clear job descriptions and candidate profiles
    • Use data analytics to improve hiring decisions
    • Streamline the interview process with structured interviews
    • Partner with universities and professional organisations
    • Leverage social media for employer branding and recruitment
    • Implement an employee referral programme
    • Regularly review and update recruitment materials
    • Provide training for hiring managers
    • Utilise pre-employment assessments
    • Regularly review and refine recruitment processes
automationengagementhr-managerrecruitment-officerhr-departmentit-support
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Strategies and tactics for improving payroll accuracy and timeliness

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Automate payroll processing

    • Implement a reliable payroll software system
    • Integrate time tracking systems with payroll software
    • Schedule automatic calculations and payments
    • Ensure electronic timesheets are precise and up-to-date
    • Set up a direct deposit system for employees
    • Regularly update the software to meet compliance regulations
    • Provide training sessions for HR staff on using the software
    • Establish a secure, cloud-based backup of payroll data
    • Monitor automatic processes to ensure they run smoothly
    • Collect feedback from employees to improve automation processes

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enhance employee communication

    • Create a dedicated payroll help desk for employee queries
    • Develop comprehensive guides outlining payroll processes
    • Conduct workshops explaining payroll timelines and procedures
    • Send monthly payroll summary reports to employees
    • Use a feedback system to address payroll discrepancies quickly
    • Implement a notification system for payroll changes or alerts
    • Regularly update employees about changes in compliance rules
    • Survey employees to identify communication gaps
    • Hold quarterly review meetings to address payroll concerns
    • Provide access to an online portal for checking pay slips and deductions

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Regularly audit payroll processes

    • Establish a checklist for auditing payroll procedures
    • Hire an external auditor to review payroll compliance annually
    • Conduct internal audits every quarter
    • Identify and correct discrepancies found in audits
    • Develop a timeline for corrective actions post-audit
    • Ensure all payroll data is correctly entered and maintained
    • Regularly update policies to reflect changes in legal compliance
    • Create an error tracking system to prevent repeat mistakes
    • Train staff on findings from audit reports to improve future accuracy
    • Document audit processes and outcomes for transparency and reference
automationcommunicationhr-managerpayroll-specialisthr-teamfinance-team
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How to track your Automation strategies and tactics

Having a plan is one thing, sticking to it is another.

Setting good strategies is only the first challenge. The hard part is to avoid distractions and make sure that you commit to the plan. A simple weekly ritual will greatly increase the chances of success.

A tool like Tability can also help you by combining AI and goal-setting to keep you on track.

More strategies recently published

We have more templates to help you draft your team goals and OKRs.

Planning resources

OKRs are a great way to translate strategies into measurable goals. Here are a list of resources to help you adopt the OKR framework:

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