Intelligent Automation for Digital Transformation is a comprehensive guide for business leaders, executives, and automation professionals, exploring how Intelligent Automation (IA) has evolved from traditional Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to become a powerful catalyst in Digital Trans-formation. In today’s rapidly changing business environment, IA offers far more than task automa-tion, but is a strategic enabler that supports operational excellence, enables customer experience, and drives innovation.

This book begins with the fundamentals of IA and its progression from simple, rule-based RPA to advanced IA, incorporating AI-driven technologies like Machine Learning, Generative AI, and Agen-tic AI. These emerging technologies empower organizations to tackle more complex processes, ena-bling intelligent decision-making and enhanced customer interactions. However, with increased complexity comes the necessity for robust governance and alignment with broader business objec-tives, which is a primary focus of this book.

Readers will discover actionable frameworks and governance models designed to support the de-velopment and sustainability of IA programs at scale. The book provides a structured roadmap to establish an IA Center of Excellence (CoE), ensuring that automation efforts align with the organiza-tion’s Digital Transformation goals. By integrating governance processes, risk management, and best practices, this guide enables companies to build IA initiatives that are resilient, compliant, and strategically impactful.

Through real-world case studies, insights into IA’s latest advancements, and a clear approach to im-plementation, this book demystifies the journey to becoming a digitally native organization. It’s an essential resource for those looking to harness the full potential of IA to transform their businesses, stay competitive, and navigate the complexities of today’s digital landscape.

Jonathan Hardy is a seasoned leader in Intelligent Automation (IA) and Digital Transformation, currently guiding Intelligent Automation Software Engineering at a major US regional bank. Driven by a deep conviction that IA is an essential strategic enabler, yet often undervalued, Jonathan wrote this book to help elevate its importance to the enterprise. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Corporate Finance and Investments from the University of Alabama and an MBA in Finance from Mercer University. In addition, he is a certified Financial Risk Manager (FRM) and Project Management Professional (PMP). On a personal note, Jonathan has been married for 22 years and is a devoted father to two special needs children: a daughter who is academically gifted and a son with severe autism. His family life fuels his passion for his support for his daughter and her many pursuits and his autism research and advocacy. Beyond his professional and personal commitments, Jonathan is also an avid writer, regularly sharing insights on the transformative power of IA through LinkedIn and other platforms, and Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies more broadly.