Class 3

Robotic Process Automation

Thursday, April 16, 2026

Class Overview

What will we do?

This class will focus on the fundamentals of robotic process automation (RPA) and its application in accounting and finance. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is a technology that allows for the automation of repetitive, rule-based tasks through software robots or 'bots'. In this class, we will explore how RPA can be used to streamline processes, reduce errors, and enhance efficiency in accounting and finance functions. We will cover the basics of RPA, including how to identify suitable processes for automation, design and build bots using UIPath, and best practices for implementing RPA solutions. The class will include a hands-on lab where students will have the opportunity to work on their chosen RPA bot to automate a process or task of their choice. This work will be the bot used for the Individual RPA submission, which is a major individual deliverable for the course. The class will also include an introduction to the individual RPA deliverable, including expectations and requirements for the submission.

Materials and Preparation

Class Materials
  • Link: UiPath Academic Alliance (to obtain a license key).
  • Link: UiPath Cloud (software to build RPA bots, get license first, use your UW email).
  • Link: Download the Process Automation Tool (an xlsx file).
  • Slides: PowerPoint or PDF
  • Automation Tools: UiPath Web Studio (cloud) and/or UiPath Studio (local)
  • Suggested Pre-Class Preparation
    1. UiPath can be accessed either through their cloud version or by downloading a version locally. You can use either version for the class, but I recommend starting with the cloud version and downloading the local version if you want your RPA bot solution to access local files heavily instead of using cloud-based software and files (i.e., local excel files versus a cloud google sheet). If you want to download the local version, UiPath will email you the software image when you sign up for academic access using your UW email address. If you have any issues with downloading or accessing UiPath, we have an older backup image on the Foster remote labs that can be used with your license and I'll show those affected how to do this.
  • Class Plan
    1. Note that there is no professionalism submissions for this class as this class relates to the individual RPA deliverable, a major individual assessment, which is due within a week of this class. During class there is time to work on your individual RPA deliverable and ask any questions you have about it in class before it is due.
    2. Class will start with an overview of automation and configuration of some example starter workflows using loops.
    3. After the introduction and orientation to UiPath as an automation tool, each individual will work on their individual RPA submission in class, knowing that they have time after class to tweak the bot.
    4. Individual RPA submissions should focus on the automation of something you feel you spend too much time on.
    5. In addition to the bot file, the submission involves a video submission of the bot working, the video should also include a description of the benefits of the bot.
    6. More information will be provided in class.

Required Deliverables

Deliverable Due Date Canvas Submission Portal
RPA Individual Submission (Individual, 30%) Thursday, April 30, 2026 Upload to Canvas