Companies are in a race to adopt smarter, faster, and more secure systems to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. Keeping up with the latest trends is crucial for staying ahead of the competition.
Let’s explore the top trends in business process automation for 2025, offering a glimpse into the business automation technologies and approaches that are transforming how companies operate.
Latest trends in business process automation
Business process automation involves using technology to streamline and automate repetitive tasks, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently while minimizing errors and freeing up employees to focus on higher-value work. As automation becomes increasingly central to modern business strategies, staying ahead means understanding the trends driving its evolution. What are the key BPA trends shaping 2025 that organizations need to consider to remain competitive and future-ready?
Trend 1. Intelligent automation
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been a buzzword capturing headlines worldwide for several years — and for good reason. Its impact on businesses is significant:
- By 2030, AI could contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy.
- 94% of business leaders say AI is crucial to succeed.
- 79% of companies have deployed three or more AI solutions in the last year.
- 65% of employees report that automation reduces their stress, allowing them to focus on meaningful work.
Meanwhile, like any technology, AI continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Today, staying ahead of the curve means going beyond AI alone. Companies are increasingly turning to intelligent automation (IA) — a holistic approach that integrates AI as a key component but also incorporates other advanced technologies like robotic process automation (RPA) and business process management (BPM).
By combining AI, RPA, and BPM, intelligent automation delivers comprehensive solutions where each technology addresses a specific automation challenge:
- AI enhances decision-making by analyzing data, predicting outcomes, and enabling machines to learn and adapt.
- RPA automates repetitive and rule-based tasks, such as data entry, invoice processing, or generating reports, freeing up employees to focus on higher-value work.
- BPM ensures that workflows are efficient, optimized, and scalable by managing, automating, and monitoring processes across departments.
The application of intelligent automation is becoming increasingly widespread across various industries:
- In healthcare, IA can automate tasks like patient data entry, enhance diagnosis with AI, and streamline hospital workflows, from appointment scheduling to billing.
- In banking, IA is used to automate compliance checks, detect fraud with AI, and process loans and claims through robotic process automation.
- Retailers leverage IA to personalize customer experiences and optimize supply chains using BPM and AI-driven insights.
Trend 2. Low-code/no-code platforms: democratizing automation
Businesses are under constant pressure to deliver solutions faster while maintaining high-quality standards. Low-code business process automation has emerged as a game-changing technology, enabling organizations to automate processes and build applications with minimal coding knowledge.
With their drag-and-drop interfaces and pre-built templates, low-code platforms make development more accessible and democratized. Non-technical users, such as business analysts and operations teams, can now participate in the development process without needing deep technical expertise, significantly accelerating project timelines.
In fact, low-code development is reported to be 40–60% faster than traditional coding. As such, low-code has been a major trend for several years now, bridging the gap between IT and business teams while streamlining the development of low-code automation.
Here are a few cases where it's reasonable to consider low-code business process automation:
- Limited IT resources: For companies with small IT teams or a backlog of development projects, low-code empowers business users to create solutions, reducing the strain on technical resources.
- Dynamic business needs: When processes need frequent updates to respond to market changes, low-code platforms allow quick adjustments without requiring extensive re-coding.
- Process-specific automation: For automating specific workflows, such as employee onboarding or approval systems, low-code enables quick, tailored solutions without building from scratch.
- Cross-department collaboration: Low-code fosters collaboration between IT and non-technical teams, ensuring solutions are both functional and aligned with business needs.
- Tight deadlines: When time-to-market is critical, low-code platforms allow faster prototyping and deployment compared to traditional development.
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Trend 3. Hyper-automation: total process overhaul
Hyper-automation combines a range of advanced business process technologies like robotic process automation, AI, ML, low-code platforms, and process mining, allowing companies to automate entire business processes rather than just isolated tasks.
The integration and simultaneous application of these technologies enable seamless collaboration, driving greater efficiency across the business. For example, if a company relies on customer service chatbots, AI can analyze interactions and identify patterns that suggest opportunities for process improvement. These insights can then be used to adjust workflows, and AI can even predict the potential impact of these changes on customer satisfaction, response times, and overall service costs. Additionally, low-code platforms such as Retool, UI Bakery, Airtable, and others simplify automation, enabling non-technical users to implement changes and contribute to process optimization. At the same time, process mining tools help uncover hidden inefficiencies.
Considering its ability to integrate multiple technologies, hyper-automation is particularly valuable for automating complex, cross-departmental workflows and high-volume, repetitive tasks like data entry, invoicing, and customer service. It is especially beneficial for businesses that rely on real-time decision-making or those experiencing rapid growth, helping them scale without proportionally increasing their workforce.
Where hyper-automation is particularly useful:
- Healthcare: Automating patient scheduling, medical billing, and insurance claims, with AI supporting diagnostics and RPA handling administrative tasks.
- Financial services: Automating compliance reporting, loan processing, and fraud detection, powered by AI and RPA.
- Retail: Streamlining inventory management, customer service, and supply chain optimization through AI and BPM.
- Manufacturing: Optimizing production lines, predicting maintenance needs with AI, and automating quality control.
Trend 4. Smart data integration and security
According to Forbes, while AI adoption is on the rise, many organizations are not fully prepared to manage its use effectively. This applies to data security as well, among other things. With the rapid growth of AI, intelligent automation, and hyper-automation, the need for seamless and secure data integration has become more critical than ever. These business process automation technologies depend on large volumes of data, making efficient integration and security essential for business success and protecting sensitive information.
What’s more, the costs associated with data breaches are rising. Thus, the global average cost of a data breach reached $4.88 million in 2024, a 10% increase from the previous year, according to IBM. In contrast, organizations that used secure AI and automation for prevention saved an average of $2.22 million compared to those that didn’t. With the increased use of these systems, the risks to data security also grow. The more sensitive data is collected and processed, the higher the chances of breaches and cyberattacks. Since these technologies are interconnected, a single vulnerability can lead to significant security threats.
Therefore, as businesses rely more on AI-powered technologies, smart data integration becomes essential. This involves connecting data across departments — such as sales, customer service, and inventory management — into a unified system, enabling AI-driven systems to improve predictions and generate accurate insights without violating data. For IA and hyperautomation, seamless data flow is crucial for automating complex workflows, such as supply chain management or customer support.
Trend 5. Human & Automation collaboration
This is likely to be the most significant trend in the coming years. As automation evolves rapidly, the key question is whether humans and machines can be “integrated” in a truly intelligent way. “Collaboration” between humans and automation solutions is most effective when it blends human judgment and creativity with the speed and accuracy of machines.
For example, AI assists doctors by analyzing medical images or providing insights, but human expertise remains essential for diagnosing and interacting with patients. In manufacturing, cobots (collaborative robots) work alongside human workers, handling heavy lifting and repetitive tasks, while humans focus on precision and quality control. In customer service, AI-powered chatbots handle routine queries and transactions, while human agents step in for complex problems that require a personal touch. Low-code applications can automate scheduling, reporting and help manage customer information. This ultimately improves both customer relations and internal workflows.
Check out how automating some internal processes with low code saves a travel agency 120 hours per month in this case study.
“Human-machine” collaboration also affects job displacement. While some jobs may be displaced by AI, others will see significant growth, especially in areas like AI modeling and business intelligence, according to this source. In fact, 69% of CEOs globally acknowledge the need for their workforce to acquire new skills in order to effectively leverage generative AI. Therefore, automation tools are enhancing human capabilities rather than replacing workers, allowing people to focus on tasks that require creativity, empathy, and complex decision-making.
Key benefits of human-automation collaboration include:
- Increased productivity: Automation handles repetitive tasks, allowing humans to focus on higher-value work, with over 90% of workers recently surveyed reporting that automation solutions have significantly boosted their productivity.
- Improved decision-making: AI provides insights and data analysis, while humans apply judgment and creativity.
- Enhanced safety: Cobots reduce physical strain and risks in hazardous environments.
As automation becomes more advanced, businesses are leveraging it to augment rather than replace human roles, creating a more efficient and innovative workforce. This shift also requires companies to invest in training employees for higher-level, strategic work, preparing them for an increasingly automated world.
Conclusion
Business process automation simplifies operations, increases efficiency, and drives growth. However, it's essential to stay informed about the latest trends in business process automation and choose the right strategy and tools tailored to your specific needs — what works for one organization may not suit another. For example, while RPA can be a “must-have” for repetitive tasks, low-code solutions may be the perfect choice for businesses looking to empower non-technical users to automate workflows.
At Akveo, we design and implement business process automation solutions that are fully tailored to meet your unique business requirements. Our team works closely with you to understand your challenges and goals, then crafts solutions using the right combination of technologies like RPA, low-code, or integration with existing tools. See how we can support your growth and efficiency with customized automation strategies — contact us today.
As we enter 2025, business process automation (BPA) is advancing at breakneck speed. From AI-powered decision-making to no-code tools with democratized approaches, automation has shifted from a “nice-to-have” to a “must-implement” strategy.
Billing Automation for a SaaS Company with Low-Code
Our client needed a robust billing solution to manage hierarchical licenses, ensure compliance, and automate invoicing for streamlined operations.
The solution:
We developed a Retool-based application that supports multi-tiered licenses, automates invoicing workflows, and integrates seamlessly with CRM and accounting platforms to enhance financial data management.
The result:
- Achieved 100% adherence to licensing agreements, mitigating penalties.
- Automated invoicing and workflows reduced manual effort significantly.
- Dashboards and reports improved decision-making and operational visibility.
Retool Dashboards with HubSpot Integration
Our client needed a centralized tool to aggregate account and contact activity, improving visibility and decision-making for the sales team.
The solution
We built a Retool application integrated with HubSpot, QuickMail, and Clay.com. The app features dashboards for sorting, filtering, and detailed views of companies, contacts, and deals, along with real-time notifications and bidirectional data syncing.
The result
- MVP in 50 hours: Delivered a functional application in just 50 hours.
- Smarter decisions: Enabled data-driven insights for strategic planning.
- Streamlined operations: Reduced manual tasks with automation and real-time updates.
Lead Generation Tool to Reduce Manual Work
Our client, Afore Capital, a venture capital firm focused on pre-seed investments, aimed to automate their lead generation processes but struggled with existing out-of-the-box solutions. To tackle this challenge, they sought assistance from our team of Akveo Retool experts.
The scope of work
The client needed a tailored solution to log and track inbound deals effectively. They required an application that could facilitate the addition, viewing, and editing of company and founder information, ensuring data integrity and preventing duplicates. Additionally, Afore Capital aimed to integrate external tools like PhantomBuster and LinkedIn to streamline data collection.
The result
By developing a custom Retool application, we streamlined the lead generation process, significantly reducing manual data entry. The application enabled employees to manage inbound deals efficiently while automated workflows for email parsing, notifications, and dynamic reporting enhanced operational efficiency. This allowed Afore Capital's team to focus more on building relationships with potential founders rather than on administrative tasks.
Retool CMS Application for EdTech Startup
Our client, CutTime, a leading fine arts education management platform, needed a scalable CMS application to improve vendor product management and user experience.
The scope of work
We developed a Retool application that allows vendors to easily upload and manage product listings, handle inventory, and set shipping options. The challenge was to integrate the app with the client’s system, enabling smooth authentication and product management for program directors.
The result
Our solution streamlined product management, reducing manual work for vendors, and significantly improving operational efficiency.
Building Reconciliation Tool for e-commerce company
Our client was in need of streamlining and simplifying its monthly accounting reconciliation process – preferably automatically. But with a lack of time and low budget for a custom build, development of a comprehensive software wasn’t in the picture. After going through the case and customer’s needs, we decided to implement Retool. And that was the right choice.
The scope of work
Our team developed a custom reconciliation tool designed specifically for the needs of high-volume transaction environments. It automated the processes and provided a comprehensive dashboard for monitoring discrepancies and anomalies in real-time.
The implementation of Retool significantly reduced manual effort, as well as fostered a more efficient and time-saving reconciliation process.
Creating Retool Mobile App for a Wine Seller
A leading spirits and wine seller in Europe required the development of an internal mobile app for private client managers and administrators. The project was supposed to be done in 1,5 months. Considering urgency and the scope of work, our developers decided to use Retool for swift and effective development.
The scope of work
Our developers built a mobile application tailored to the needs of the company's sales force: with a comprehensive overview of client interactions, facilitated order processing, and enabled access to sales history and performance metrics. It was user-friendly, with real-time updates, seamlessly integrated with existing customer databases.
The result? Increase in productivity of the sales team and improved decision-making process. But most importantly, positive feedback from the customers themselves.
Developing PoC with Low Code for a Tour Operator
To efficiently gather, centralize, and manage data is a challenge for any tour operator. Our client was not an exception. The company was seeking to get an internal software that will source information from third-party APIs and automate the travel itinerary creation process. Preferably, cost- and user-friendly tool.
The scope of work
Our experts ensured the client that all the requirements could be covered by Retool. And just in 40 hours a new software was launched. The tool had a flexible and easy-to-use interface with user authentication and an access management system panel – all the company needed. At the end, Retool was considered the main tool to replace the existing system.
Testing New Generation of Lead Management Tool with Retool
Our client, a venture fund, had challenges with managing lead generation and client acquisition. As the company grew, it aimed to attract more clients and scale faster, as well as automate the processes to save time, improve efficiency and minimize human error. The idea was to craft an internal lead generation tool that will cover all the needs. We’ve agreed that Retool will be a perfect tool for this.
The scope of work
The project initially began as a proof of concept, but soon enough, with each new feature delivered, the company experienced increased engagement and value.
We developed a web tool that integrates seamlessly with Phantombuster for data extraction and LinkedIn for social outreach. Now, the company has a platform that elevates the efficiency of their lead generation activities and provides deep insights into potential client bases.
Building an Advanced Admin Portal for Streamlined Operations
Confronted with the need for more sophisticated internal tools, an owner of IP Licensing marketplace turned to Retool to utilize its administrative functions. The primary goal was to construct an advanced admin portal that could support complex, multi-layered processes efficiently.
The scope of work
Our client needed help with updating filters and tables for its internal platform. In just 30 hours we've been able to update and create about 6 pages. Following features were introduced: add complex filtering and search, delete records, styling application with custom CSS.
Together, we have increased performance on most heavy pages and fixed circular dependency issues.
Creating MVP Dashboard for Google Cloud Users
Facing the challenge of unoptimized cloud resource management, a technology firm working with Google Cloud users was looking for a solution to make its operations more efficient. The main idea of the project was to create an MVP for e-commerce shops to test some client hypotheses. Traditional cloud management tools fell short.
The scope of work
Determined to break through limitations, our team of developers turned Retool. We decided to craft an MVP Dashboard specifically for Google Cloud users. This wasn't just about bringing data into view; but about reshaping how teams interact with their cloud environment.
We designed a dashboard that turned complex cloud data into a clear, strategic asset thanks to comprehensive analytics, tailored metrics, and an intuitive interface, that Retool provides. As the results, an increase in operational efficiency, significant improvement in cost management and resource optimization.
Elevating CRM with Custom HubSpot Sales Dashboard
Our other client, a SaaS startup, that offers collaborative tools for design and engineering teams, was on a quest to supercharge their sales efforts. Traditional CRM systems were limited and not customizable enough. The company sought a solution that could tailor HubSpot to their workflow and analytics needs.
The scope of work
Charged with the task of going beyond standard CRM functions, our team turned to Retool. We wanted to redefine how sales teams interact with their CRM.
By integrating advanced analytics, custom metrics, and a user-friendly interface, our developers provided a solution that transformed data into a strategic asset.
In 40 hours, three informative dashboards were developed, containing the most sensitive data related to sales activities. These dashboards enable our customer to analyze sales and lead generation performance from a different perspective and establish the appropriate KPIs.
Building a PDF Editor with Low-Code
Our client, a leading digital credential IT startup, needed a lot of internal processes to be optimized. But the experience with low-code tools wasn’t sufficient. That’s why the company decided to hire professionals. And our team of developers joined the project.
The scope of work
The client has a program that designs and prints custom badges for customers. The badges need to be “mail-merged” with a person’s info and turned into a PDF to print. But what is the best way to do it?
Our developers decided to use Retool as a core tool. Using custom components and JavaScript, we developed a program that reduced employees' time for designing, putting the data, verifying, and printing PDF badges in one application.
As a result, the new approach significantly reduces the time required by the internal team to organize all the necessary staff for the conference, including badge creation.
