The tempting quick fix
Imagine a team asking for automated reminders because employees keep forgetting to update a tracker. It sounds like a straightforward automation project. But after looking closer, I find that the same information is entered in three places.
Ask why the work exists
I would map the information from its original source to every downstream use. Which system is authoritative? Who needs the data? Why are employees retyping it? The answer may be a poorly designed handoff, not a lack of reminders.
Simplify before connecting tools
My first recommendation would be to eliminate duplicate entry, standardize required fields, and make one system the source of truth. Only then would I automate updates, notifications, or exception routing.
Design for maintenance
I would document what triggers the automation, who owns it, how failures are detected, and what happens when a tool changes. An automation without an owner becomes another hidden operational risk.
The lesson
Automation should accelerate a good process—not make a confusing one run faster.
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