Streamlining Business Processes: The Rise of Automation in Russian Companies

December 4, 2024, 10:43 pm
1C
1C
Content DistributionDevelopmentDistributorEdTechEnterprisePlatformProductPublishingServiceSoftware
Location: Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar
Employees: 11-50
In the world of business, time is money. Companies are constantly searching for ways to optimize their operations. In Russia, a wave of automation is sweeping through various sectors, particularly in human resources and travel management. This shift is not just a trend; it’s a necessity driven by efficiency, accuracy, and the need for local solutions.

The Russian medical technology market is booming. Sales surged by 38% in early 2024, fueled by advancements in technology and government support for local production. However, selling complex medical equipment is just the tip of the iceberg. These machines require installation and maintenance, often necessitating travel for specialists. But how do you manage travel efficiently in a rapidly changing environment?

Traditionally, companies relied on platforms like SharePoint for travel arrangements. However, with recent sanctions, access to such tools has been severed. The result? A cumbersome process that took over an hour and a half to complete. Employees struggled with manual forms, often miscalculating daily allowances based on complex rules. This led to delays and frustration, as HR had to correct errors and prepare documents manually.

Enter the low-code BPM system, "Первая Форма." This Russian solution emerged as a beacon of hope. The goal was clear: migrate the entire travel process to a new platform and streamline it. The results were astounding. What once took 90 minutes now takes just 15. The new system automatically calculates allowances based on the destination and duration of the trip. It pulls real-time currency exchange rates from the Central Bank, eliminating human error.

The process is now seamless. Employees input their travel dates and select their destination from a dropdown menu. The system does the rest. HR receives correctly filled applications, and all necessary documents are generated automatically. This not only saves time but also reduces the workload on HR, allowing them to focus on more strategic tasks.

But travel management is just one piece of the puzzle. Employee vacations are another area ripe for automation. In larger organizations, managing vacation requests can become a logistical nightmare. The traditional method involves employees submitting requests to their managers, who then compile them into a spreadsheet. This manual process can take weeks, especially in hybrid work environments.

Coleman Group, a company specializing in HR solutions, faced this challenge head-on. They implemented an electronic document management system (EDMS) to streamline vacation approvals. The result? A significant reduction in processing time and improved visibility for managers. Employees can now check their vacation balances and request time off with ease.

The integration of systems like Bitrix24 into the vacation management process has proven beneficial. Employees can submit vacation requests directly through the platform, which automatically notifies their managers. This eliminates the need for back-and-forth emails and reduces the risk of miscommunication. The system also provides a comprehensive overview of vacation schedules, preventing overlaps that could disrupt operations.

Automation in HR is not just about speed; it’s about accuracy and compliance. With the right systems in place, companies can ensure that all vacation requests are processed according to labor laws and internal policies. This reduces the risk of disputes and enhances employee satisfaction.

Moreover, the integration of electronic signatures (UKEP/UNEP) into these systems adds another layer of security and efficiency. Employees can sign documents digitally, speeding up the approval process and reducing the reliance on physical paperwork. This is particularly important in a remote work environment, where traditional methods can lead to delays.

The benefits of automation extend beyond just HR. Companies are discovering that integrating various business processes can lead to significant improvements in overall efficiency. For instance, the seamless exchange of data between systems like 1C and Bitrix24 allows for real-time updates on employee statuses, vacation balances, and travel expenses. This interconnectedness fosters a more agile business environment.

As companies continue to embrace automation, the focus will shift towards creating customized solutions that cater to specific needs. While off-the-shelf software can provide a quick fix, many organizations are recognizing the value of tailored systems that align with their unique workflows. This shift towards customization is driving demand for skilled integrators who can bridge the gap between different platforms.

In conclusion, the landscape of business operations in Russia is evolving. Automation is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Companies that adapt to these changes will not only survive but thrive in an increasingly competitive market. The journey towards automation may be challenging, but the rewards are undeniable. Time saved, errors reduced, and employee satisfaction increased—these are the hallmarks of a successful transition. As more organizations recognize the value of automation, the future looks bright for Russian businesses willing to embrace change.