How to Choose the Right Processes to Automate First
With so many possible use cases, one of the biggest questions we hear from business leaders is:
“Where do I even start with automation?”
The answer isn’t “everywhere” it’s strategically.
Not all processes are ready for automation, and automating the wrong ones can backfire. Let’s walk through a simple, effective framework to help you prioritize automation efforts and see quick wins.
Start with the ‘Low-Hanging Fruit’
Before you attempt to automate complex decision-making or interdepartmental workflows, look for tasks that are:
- Repetitive
- Rule-based
- Time-consuming
- Low risk if something goes wrong
These are prime candidates because they deliver fast ROI and require minimal disruption to current operations.
5 Criteria for Selecting the Right Processes to Automate First
1. Frequency
How often is the task performed? A daily or weekly task provides more value over time than one performed once a year.
Example: Sending welcome emails to new customers.
2. Volume
Does this task affect a lot of people or involve large amounts of data?
Example: Generating monthly invoices for 500 clients.
3. Standardization
Is the process predictable and rules-driven, or does it require human judgment?
Automate: Updating CRM records
Don’t (yet): Writing custom proposals.
4. Impact on Business Goals
Will automating this process improve efficiency, reduce costs, or enhance customer experience?
Example: Automating complaint handling workflows in customer service.
5. Current Pain Point
Is this task already a bottleneck or causing errors?
Example: Manual inventory updates leading to overselling or stockouts.
Use This 4-Quadrant Priority Grid
| High Impact | Low Impact | |
|---|---|---|
| High Effort | Automate Later | Avoid |
| Low Effort | Automate First | Optional |
Velvot Quick-Start Automation List
To get you thinking, here are 5 processes we often recommend automating first for Nigerian businesses:
- Staff leave request approvals
- Customer feedback collection
- Inventory reorder alerts
- New employee onboarding
- Monthly sales reporting
Each of these can be implemented within 2–3 weeks and pays for itself fast.
Let Velvot Help You Prioritize with Precision
At Velvot Nigeria Ltd, we don’t just install automation tools we partner with your team to map out your workflows, identify priorities, and implement what matters most first.
Get a free “Automation Readiness Assessment” by emailing gtm@velvot.com
The best way to start automating is to start smart. Let’s do it together.
