Not every task should be automated
First it must be clear which steps are recurring, rule-based and low-risk. Everything else needs deliberately set boundaries.
Approvals remain visible
An automated process should show which step has been prepared and who must review or approve it.
Exceptions belong in the system
When data is missing, an amount is unclear or a document does not fit, the process must move cleanly into a clarification step.
Automation needs maintenance
Rules, templates and responsibilities change. Automations therefore need to remain traceable and maintainable.
Concrete business examples
An incoming invoice is automatically assigned to a project but remains in approval status until it has been checked.
A recurring customer task is created automatically, while the responsible person decides on execution.
CONCLUSION
What follows from this
Automation is strongest when it reduces routine work and makes critical decisions clearer.