## 2 Materials and Methods
### Current Processes
**Identify metrics and KPI:** Identify metrics that best represent the process's performance and align with the organization's objectives. These metrics can be quantitative (like processing time, cost, error rate) or qualitative (like customer satisfaction) [35; 36]. They can also be made to be S.M.A.R.T: the KPIs should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. This means that each KPI should precisely state what it measures, be quantifiable, realistically achievable, have a clear link to the strategic objectives of the business, and be bound by a specific time frame [34]. **Set targets:** Decide on targets for each KPI. These should be challenging but achievable. The targets serve as a benchmark for assessing the process's performance [35]. **Regular review and communication:** KPIs should be regularly reviewed to ensure they remain relevant and reflect any changes in business objectives or operating conditions. If a KPI is consistently being met, it may be time to set a more ambitious target. Conversely, if a KPI is consistently missed, it might be time to reassess whether the target is realistic [34; 35]. Communicate the KPIs and their importance to all stakeholders, including employees. This helps ensure that everyone understands what KPIs are, why they are important, and how their role contributes to achieving them [34; 35]. The process performance measurement, like process documentation, should be a continuous activity, with regular monitoring and updating to reflect the changes in the business environment, organizational objectives, or process redesign. Process Automation Opportunities:  
A careful analysis of the current processes can reveal repetitive tasks that are time-consuming and prone to human error, which are ideal candidates for automation. The use of AI can automate these tasks and improve the process efficiency. Moreover, AI can be applied to more complex tasks, such as decision making or pattern recognition, to further enhance the process effectiveness [37]. Identifying opportunities for process automation is a critical step in leveraging AI for digital transformation. Figure 4 illustrates the steps that can be used for business process automation as follows:  
**Step 1: Identify the Process and Define the Goals**  
The first step in automating a business process is to identify the processes that could and should be automated. Typically, processes that are repetitive, prone to human error, time-consuming, or important for compliance are good candidates for automation. By automating such processes, businesses can reduce the burden of mundane tasks on employees, leading to increased productivity and efficiency [38]. Determine what you want to achieve through automation. This could include improving efficiency, reducing errors, improving customer satisfaction, or other business objectives [39]. **Step 2: Process Mapping**  
Understand and document the existing process from start to end. This step involves outlining each stage of the process, identifying who is involved, and identifying the tools used. This provides a complete picture of the current process and helps identify areas of improvement [40]. **Step 3: Identify Automation Opportunities and Choose the Right Tools**  
Once the process has been mapped, identify which parts can be automated. It is important to consider which steps will yield the most benefit from automation because not all steps may be suitable or beneficial to automate [41]. Depending on the complexity of the process and business needs, the automation tool can vary. Tools can range from simple task automation software to more complex business process management (BPM) or robotic process automation (RPA) tools [42]. **Step 4: Design, Development, and Testing of the Automated Process**  
Redesign the process by incorporating automation tools. Ensure that provisions are made for exceptions or error handling. It is crucial to have a clear process flow diagram that everyone can understand [43].