From Routine to Automation: How RPA Advances Administrative Practices in Swedish Universities

This study investigates the impact of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) on the development of routine capabilities and practice changes within public organizations. Drawing on the theoretical lens of technology as routine capability, we conducted case studies at two Swedish public universities. Our findings reveal that the implementation of RPA, conceptualized as a routine capability, fostered the emergence of automation practices within these institutions despite their differing implementation experiences. We identified practice changes across four key dimensions: design, execution, diffusion, and shift. This paper contributes to the existing body of knowledge on RPA by offering detailed empirical insights into how it has advanced practices, induced organizational changes, and identified challenges that require further exploration. This research offers practical implications for public organizations managing RPA-triggered organizational transformations towards automation.