Rajeev Soota boasts 33 years of experience, with a significant focus on the last two decades within IT. His expertise lies in managing business applications, specifically ERP solutions like SAP, APO, demand planning, sales forecasting, and business intelligence etc. Rajeev has played a pivotal role in automation initiatives, enhancing operational efficiency at Usha International. With a robust background in leveraging technology for business excellence, he contributes substantially to the company's IT landscape.

In a recent interaction with Keerthana H K, Correspondent, CIO INSIDER, Rajeev Soota, Vice president-IT at Usha International walks us through a journey marked by innovation, transformative leadership, and a commitment to reshaping industries.

How are you using artificial intelligence and machine learning in process automation in your organization?
In organizations, the synergy between artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) forms the backbone of process automation. AI, designed to mimic human intelligence, empowers machines with decision-making capabilities, while ML algorithms enhance data processing efficiency, particularly in handling large datasets. This dynamic duo is instrumental in big data analytics, extracting actionable insights and ensuring precision in data processing. An illustrative example lies in pattern recognition, a core AI function that facilitates predictive analytics for strategic decision-making. Moreover, the integration of Natural Language Processing (NLP) exemplifies the versatility of AI. This allows systems to comprehend and process commands in various languages, fostering user-friendly interfaces such as AI-driven virtual assistants. In essence, AI and ML elevate efficiency and adaptability across diverse operational domains.

Which are the security measures you prioritize in implementing process automation to safeguard sensitive data and ensure compliance with relevant regulations?
Security takes center stage in our approach to process automation, particularly concerning sensitive data and regulatory compliance. The foundation is data encryption, ensuring information remains unreadable without the appropriate decryption key. Access control, notably through Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), further fortifies security by restricting access based on designated roles. Comprehensive auditing and monitoring mechanisms create a robust audit trail, essential for ongoing compliance. Regular security audits are conducted to identify vulnerabilities and assess

potential threats. To prevent data leakage, we employ Data Loss Prevention (DLP) tools, monitoring and controlling data transfers. Background checks on external collaborators and the use of secure protocols like HTTPS for data transmission contribute to an overarching security strategy. Our multifaceted security approach encompasses encryption, access controls, auditing, and specialized tools, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data.

What are the challenges you encounter in process automation, and how do you address the same?
Resistance to change is a common hurdle during the implementation of process automation. Overcoming this requires proactive engagement with stakeholders from the project's inception, fostering understanding and encouraging training. Integration challenges often arise due to existing systems not seamlessly aligning with new automation tools. The strategic solution involves breaking down complex processes into manageable tasks and incrementally automating simpler ones to minimize disruptions. Comprehensive training programs are pivotal for overcoming challenges related to skills development. Empowering the workforce ensures they can adapt to the changes brought about by automation, fostering a skilled and adaptable team. Cost considerations are inevitable, and demonstrating Return on Investment (ROI) is crucial for securing management buy-in. Careful planning, cost projections, and showcasing long-term benefits contribute to a convincing case for investment in automation. Addressing scalability concerns involves designing automation solutions with future growth in mind. Gradual automation aligned with the company's growth trajectory ensures sustained effectiveness without frequent overhauls. In essence, addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach combining strategic planning, effective communication, skills development, and a focus on the long-term benefits of process automation.