https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/youve-probably-never-heard-of-robotic-process-automation-but/

It’s hardly news that digital technology is reshaping the way we think, work and live, as  companies large and small try to get any edge they can over the competition through increased efficiency and reduced labor costs. Emerging from within the world of automation technology is a form of software known as robotic process automation or RPA.

RPA can be installed on most digitally connected devices, including your laptop, desktop, or tablet. The software itself can stand alone on a single device or function on top of an organization's entire cloud environment. It doesn’t replace the applications you’re currently using; it works alongside your existing business processes.