---
title: "Robotic process automation (RPA): definition | Rex glossary"
description: "Software bots that repeat scripted steps in other applications, such as clicking, copying and pasting, exactly as they were configured."
canonical: https://www.rex.inc/glossary/robotic-process-automation
---

# Robotic process automation (RPA)

Software bots that repeat scripted steps in other applications, such as clicking, copying and pasting, exactly as they were configured.

RPA is good at high-volume tasks that never vary, such as downloading a bank file or keying data from a fixed template.

It struggles with the exceptions that make up much of order-to-cash work: a remittance in a new format, a portal that has changed its layout, or an email that needs judgment. When the input changes, the bot breaks.

## Further reading

- [AI vs RPA in accounts receivable: why bots aren't agents→](https://www.rex.inc/resources/ai-ar/ai-vs-rpa-accounts-receivable)

## Related terms

- [Agentic AI AI that works toward a goal over several steps, deciding what to do, using tools and checking results, rather than producing a single response.](https://www.rex.inc/glossary/agentic-ai)
- [AR automation Using software to handle accounts receivable tasks, such as invoicing, reminders and payment matching, with less manual effort.](https://www.rex.inc/resources/ar-automation/what-is-accounts-receivable-automation)
- [Exception Any case that leaves the standard path, such as a short payment, a portal rejection, a disputed line or a missing PO, and needs investigating before it can be resolved.](https://www.rex.inc/glossary/exception)

Next step

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