As enterprises mature in automation, many face the same challenge: scaling RPA becomes increasingly expensive, complex and inflexible.

This is where RPAaaS (Robotic Process Automation as a Service) changes the conversation.

Why traditional RPA models stop scaling

License-based RPA models were designed for early adoption, not enterprise-wide scale.

• High upfront licensing costs
• Underutilized bots
• Rigid infrastructure
• Limited flexibility during demand peaks

What RPAaaS actually changes

RPAaaS shifts automation from ownership to consumption.

Instead of managing bots as assets, organizations consume automation as an operational service.

The RPAaaS operating model

• On-demand automation capacity
• Usage-based pricing
• Centralized governance
• Built-in scalability

When RPAaaS makes sense

• Seasonal workloads
• Distributed operations
• Automation programs in expansion phase
• Organizations seeking predictable costs

RPAaaS is not outsourcing

A common misconception is that RPAaaS removes control. In reality, governance improves because automation becomes standardized and monitored.

Key decision checklist before adopting RPAaaS

• Do we need elasticity?
• Are our processes standardized?
• Do we want automation as CapEx or OpEx?
• Is governance centralized?

In 2026, RPAaaS will not be an alternative—it will be the default model for scalable automation.