Process automation has been earmarked as one of the strongest steps toward optimal operational efficiency in the modern private sector, and a wealth of organizations have already started to see the true advantages of the relevant technologies. Rather than taking the stance of throwing out old assets and bringing in new ones, there are plenty of opportunities to leverage workflow and process automation tools to get more out of investments that are already on hand. 

Automation World recently reported that some members of the paper industry – which has been among the most at risk of facing antiquation thanks to digital technology's spread – are leveraging automation tools to fight back against the challenging conditions that have broken through in the past decade. According to the news provider, Tommy Joseph, senior vice president of manufacturing and technology for International Paper, believes that the best path forward is making the most out of what is on hand, while also embracing new tools. 

"There is nothing new in the overall process. There is not a new way to make paper – it is a tried-and-true process," Joseph told Automation World. "The real opportunity is around efficiency – investing in new processes, new technology and new capabilities that will reduce consumption and make more product with less energy."

In a word, this approach has led Joseph's company to do exceptional things in the past few years. 

This is yet another example of companies working to excel in their market with the help of new automation tools, rather than simply believing that the implementation of a given piece of software will solve all of their problems. When reliable solutions are leveraged alongside sound and well-informed decision-making, the opportunities to improve performance are relatively boundless.