Strategy
30th June 2024
8 min read
Stu Mason
How to Prioritize Automation Opportunities for Maximum Impact
Not all automation is created equal. Here's how to pick the projects that deliver the biggest results, fastest.
Stu Mason
Automation expert • Sony, Paddle, Pfizer • 15 years experience • AWS certified
Trying to automate everything at once is a recipe for disappointment. Here's how we help clients focus on what matters most.
Step 1: Map Your Processes
- List every manual process, no matter how small
- Identify pain points and bottlenecks
Step 2: Score by Impact & Effort
- Estimate time/cost savings for each process
- Rate technical complexity (easy, medium, hard)
Step 3: Quick Wins First
- Start with high-impact, low-effort automations
- Build momentum and confidence
Case Example: Paddle's Prioritization Matrix
Paddle used a simple impact/effort matrix to identify 3 automations that paid for themselves in under a month.
Insider Insight
The best automation programs start with a backlog, not a blank slate.
Pitfalls
- Chasing "shiny object" automations
- Ignoring user feedback
Visuals
- Impact/Effort Matrix Diagram
- Sample Automation Backlog
- Quick Wins Timeline
Conclusion
Prioritizing the right automations means faster ROI and happier teams. Start with the biggest pain, not the biggest project.
Want help prioritizing?
Book a free automation prioritization session with ArcTether.
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