While much of the focus on the value of automation systems is on the consistent and reliable execution of the schedule, the data within the automation system can also be valuable to the organization. In this Enterprise Automation Excellencepodcast, hosts Dan Twing and Tom O'Rourke explore how automation systems serve as critical sources of truth for business operations. They explain that automation teams manage key data repositories that become the singleauthoritative record for business processes. The discussion covers the challenges of maintaining data quality, the security risks involved, and the growing importance of this data for AI and analytics initiatives. The hosts emphasize that automation leaders need to recognize their role as data stewards and actively engage with other business leaders to share the valuable information they maintain.

Key Points

• Automation systems are primary sources of truth for business process execution
• Business process knowledge is often only recorded in automation tools
• Historical records of process execution serve as proof of compliance, which can be important in regulated industries

The historical and operational data in automation systems can provide valuableinput for corporate AI and analytics initiatives

Takeaways for Automation Leaders

• Automation teams should understand they are keepers of critical business data and implement proper governance, change management, and security controls
• Engage Chief Data Officers and Chief AI Officers to discuss how your data can support broader organizational initiatives and AI programs
• Implement robust data security controls since sources of truth are prime targets for cyber attacks that could disrupt entire business operations
• Instead of talking with business leaders about "scheduling data", start talking about "operational intelligence" and "process optimization."

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