IT Automation: Purposes, Functions, Benefits, Tools & Career

What is IT Automation?

IT automation is defined as the application of software to create repeatable instructions and processes aimed at replacing or reducing human interaction with IT systems. This technology serves a pivotal role in streamlining both strategic and administrative functions within an organization. By automating these functions, companies can achieve higher operational efficiency and precision, allowing for the consistent execution of tasks that might otherwise be prone to human error.

The effectiveness of IT automation lies in its ability to integrate automated tasks seamlessly within existing IT operations, enhancing their efficiency and reducing the time and labor typically required for complex tasks. Automation software and tools are crucial in this regard, as they execute demanding, time-consuming tasks with greater accuracy and consistency. This not only boosts productivity but also ensures that systems operate more reliably and errors are minimized, contributing to overall business resilience and agility.

What Are the Common Examples of IT Automation?

Common examples of IT Automation, which are widely implemented across various business operations to streamline workflows and enhance system efficiencies, include:

• Automated Data Backups: Routine backups are performed automatically to ensure data integrity and availability without manual intervention. For example, Commvault provides automated data backup and recovery solutions for enterprises, protecting data across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments.
• Security Incident Responses: Automation tools detect and respond to security threats instantaneously, mitigating potential risks and vulnerabilities. Splunk Phantom is a security orchestration, automation, and response (SOAR) platform that automates incident response processes, reducing response times and improving security posture.
• Network Configuration Management: Software automatically manages and optimizes network device configurations to ensure consistent network performance and compliance. SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager is a tool used by IT teams to automate network device configuration and compliance management tasks. 
• Automated Provisioning: IT resources such as servers and applications are automatically deployed and scaled based on real-time demands. AWS Auto Scaling is a cloud computing service offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) that automatically adjusts the number of compute resources based on defined policies and demand. 
• Performance Monitoring: Systems continuously monitor IT infrastructure performance, automatically adjusting settings or alerting technicians to issues. New Relic is a popular performance monitoring and management tool that provides automated alerting, incident diagnosis, and remediation capabilities. 
• Patch Management: Software updates and patches are automatically applied across systems, ensuring all devices are up-to-date and secure. Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager is widely used by organizations to automate the deployment of software updates, operating system upgrades, and security patches.
• Job Scheduling: Routine IT tasks are scheduled and managed by automation tools, improving operational efficiency and precision. Control-M by BMC Software is an enterprise job scheduling and workload automation solution that automates and orchestrates business processes across various platforms and applications.

These automation examples play crucial roles in simplifying complex processes and addressing common business challenges, often utilizing platforms such as VMware automation tools or cloud-based automation solutions like Microsoft Azure and AWS. These technologies facilitate the seamless execution of tasks, contributing to a robust and efficient IT environment.

What is Automation?

Automation is the application of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention, designed to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of various operations. This process is used in numerous fields ranging from manufacturing, where robots assemble products at a speed and precision unattainable by human workers, to personal productivity, where software automates routine data management tasks. Automation helps streamline processes, ensuring they are faster, more cost-effective, and less prone to error.

In manufacturing, automation technologies include assembly line robots and systems for monitoring and controlling the production environment, significantly boosting production rates and safety. In the realm of personal productivity, examples include scheduling software that organizes tasks and appointments efficiently, or customer relationship management (CRM) systems that automate communication and logging interactions with clients, thereby enhancing service delivery and customer satisfaction. These applications of automation collectively work to optimize output and improve operational quality across sectors.

Why Do Businesses Need IT Automation?

Businesses need IT automation to manage the increasing complexity of IT environments, which are characterized by rapid technological advancements, diverse systems integration, and escalating security demands. As part of broader digital transformation initiatives, IT automation helps reduce operational costs, minimize errors, and free up human resources for more strategic tasks. This technology ensures the reliability and repeatability of processes crucial for maintaining operational consistency and reducing the impact of human error. Furthermore, automation grants businesses a strategic advantage by allowing them to respond more quickly to market changes and customer needs through automated systems and data-driven decision-making.

Here are top 9 reasons on why businesses need IT Automation:

1. Workflow Automation: Uses rule-based logic to automate manual tasks within business processes, eliminating tedious tasks and boosting efficiency. This allows employees to dedicate more time to complex and strategic activities, enhancing productivity and innovation within the company.
2. IT Operations/Process Automation: Automates regular IT tasks like system monitoring, batch processing, and network management. This automation reduces downtime and speeds up operational response times, ensuring more consistent and error-free IT operations.
3. Infrastructure Automation: Employs technology to dynamically manage and provision computing infrastructure, allowing businesses to adjust resources flexibly based on demand, optimizing operational costs and improving responsiveness to changes in workload.
4. Cloud Automation: Manages cloud environments with tasks like auto-scaling, load balancing, and automated backups, thereby improving resource management, cloud automation drives greater efficiency and reduces operational costs.
5. Resource Provisioning: Involves automatically setting up and allocating IT resources based on predefined configurations. This reduces manual errors and delays in provisioning, ensuring that resources are always available when needed, thus optimizing both cost and operational efficiency.
6. Configuration: Maintains systems, servers, and software in a desired, consistent state using automated tools. This is crucial for maintaining system integrity and compliance with regulatory standards, contributing to overall IT health and security.
7. Network Management: Encompasses the deployment, operation, and proactive monitoring of network resources, utilizing automated tools that provide real-time monitoring and troubleshooting. This ensures a more reliable network infrastructure and improves service delivery.
8. Security Automation: Uses automated technology to perform security operations such as detecting, analyzing, and defending against threats, enabling real-time threat detection and rapid response. It helps in enhancing the effectiveness of a company’s security protocols.
9. Incident Management: Automatically detects and resolves IT incidents to minimize downtime and mitigates the impact on business operations. Faster detection and resolution through automation help maintain operational continuity and reduce IT downtime, supporting business resilience. 

How Much Does It Cost to Automate Overall Businesses IT Operation?

Understanding the financial implications of implementing IT automation is crucial, as costs can vary widely based on several factors. These costs include initial investments such as purchasing software licenses for automation tools like IT automation platforms or VMware automation tools. Ongoing operational costs also factor in, encompassing regular updates and potential system upgrades necessary to support the evolving needs of the business.

The cost variability is influenced by business size and complexity; smaller businesses may face lower costs due to simpler IT environments, while medium enterprises and large corporations may incur higher expenses due to more complex IT automation needs. Calculating the return on investment (ROI) for IT automation involves comparing these costs against the financial gains from increased productivity, efficiency, and error reduction. The strategic implementation of IT automation can lead to significant operational improvements, making it a worthy investment for businesses aiming to modernize and streamline their IT operations.

How Does IT Automation Work?

IT automation works by leveraging software and technology to streamline IT operations, incorporating various components such as automation software, servers, cloud services, and networking equipment. These tools are crucial for automating processes that traditionally require manual input and continuous monitoring. Popular software and tools used in IT automation include automation platforms like VMware, cloud-based automation solutions, and APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) and middleware that ensure seamless communication between disparate systems within an IT environment.

The workflow of IT automation can be understood in four main steps:

1. Planning and Mapping: Businesses begin by identifying and mapping out IT processes that are ideal candidates for automation. This could include tasks like data backups, network configurations, and system monitoring, which are essential for operational efficiency but can be time-consuming and prone to human error.
2. Development and Configuration: In this phase, automation scripts or rules are developed and configured to precisely match the requirements of the specified IT tasks. This involves using configuration management tools and scripting languages to create detailed, repeatable automation procedures.
3. Testing and Deployment: Before being fully implemented, these automation protocols undergo thorough testing in a controlled environment. This step is vital to ensure that the automations perform as expected without disrupting existing systems or processes.
4. Monitoring and Maintenance: Once deployed, it’s crucial to continually monitor automation systems to ensure they are functioning efficiently and making appropriate adjustments as the IT infrastructure evolves. This ongoing maintenance helps in catching and resolving any issues early, preventing potential downtime or data loss.

By following these steps, businesses can effectively implement IT automation to enhance operational efficiency, reduce errors, and free up valuable resources for more strategic tasks.

5 Benefits of IT Automation

IT automation profoundly transforms business operations across various sectors by enhancing daily activities and strategically positioning companies for scalable growth and heightened security. It significantly enhances operational efficiency, enables scalable business growth, improves regulatory compliance, increases security, and reduces costs, which we will discuss below:

Cost Saving

IT automation significantly reduces expenses linked to manual processes, human errors, and operational inefficiencies. By automating routine tasks and data processing, businesses can decrease their reliance on manual labor, thereby slashing labor costs. Additionally, the investment in automation tools contributes to long-term financial benefits by minimizing the frequency and costs associated with errors. According to Gartner, a firm can reduce 25,000 hours of redoing work due to human error, equating to cost savings of US$878,000. This overall reduction in unnecessary expenditures helps companies optimize their financial resources and increase profitability.

Increased Productivity

IT automation significantly enhances workplace productivity by streamlining routine processes such as system monitoring and data management, which allows tasks to be completed more quickly and efficiently. By automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks, employees are freed to focus on higher-value activities, thus maximizing their contributions to strategic projects and innovative initiatives. This shift not only optimizes the use of human resources but also leads to notable productivity improvements; for instance, companies have reported a 10-15% increase in efficiency from implementing marketing automations, according to ActiveCampaign. This increase in productivity reflects the profound impact of IT automation on organizational performance, enabling businesses to achieve more with less effort.

Improved Safety and Compliance

IT automation significantly enhances both safety and compliance within businesses by automating the enforcement of security protocols, such as encryption and access controls, and regulatory standards like GDPR and HIPAA. According to Formstack, 36% of businesses use automation for regulation or compliance. By eliminating the variability of human intervention, automation ensures that these policies are applied consistently across all systems. This reduces the risk of security breaches and maintains rigorous compliance with laws and regulations. Automation tools actively monitor and maintain these standards, providing businesses with a robust framework that safeguards sensitive data and complies with industry-specific requirements, thus fostering a secure and compliant operational environment.

Greater Reliability

IT automation greatly enhances the reliability of IT operations by minimizing human errors associated with data entry, configuration, and management. By implementing standardized, repeatable processes, automation ensures consistent system performance with reduced downtime, significantly improving the stability of IT services. This shift not only streamlines operations but also boosts overall business resilience. Highlighting its impact, Zapier’s 2021 State of Business Automation Report reveals that 63% of small business owners credit automation tools with facilitating pivotal business changes, and an impressive 88% say these tools enable them to compete effectively with larger companies.

Flexibility

Business agility is significantly enhanced through the use of automation platforms, which allow for rapid adjustments, such as deploying new software patches or reallocating resources during peak demand, to processes in line with evolving business requirements or technological shifts. These systems efficiently scale to meet demand, offering this flexibility without extensive manual intervention or significant modifications. A Capgemini survey of 900 executives highlights the value of IT automation for agility, with 84% stating that it helped improve their company’s ability to adapt quickly. This ensures that organizations can seamlessly respond to market changes and maintain operational effectiveness, keeping them competitive and responsive.

What Are the Common Challenges of IT Automation?

The common challenges of IT automation include the high initial costs of investment, complexity in integrating automation with existing legacy systems, and the amplification of errors through automated processes. Organizations must manage workforce changes and the need for retraining, along with the continuous maintenance and updating of automated systems to ensure effectiveness and adaptability to new technologies and business needs.

• High Cost of Investment

IT automation requires a significant initial financial outlay, which includes expenses for software, hardware, and professional services for system integration. Moreover, the need for long-term financial planning is critical to accommodate ongoing maintenance costs, upgrades, and potential scalability needs. This financial commitment can be daunting, especially for small to medium-sized enterprises.

• Increased Consequences for Errors

Automation can amplify the consequences of errors. If an automated process is flawed, these systems can replicate and propagate errors quickly across various platforms and systems. It underscores the importance of rigorous testing and validation of automated processes before full deployment. Implementing comprehensive monitoring systems and establishing fail-safes can help identify and correct errors promptly, minimizing the risk of widespread impact.

• Complexity and Integration Issues

Integrating IT automation with existing legacy systems presents compatibility challenges, can create data silos, and cause disruptions during integration phases. To manage these complexities, it is advisable to adopt modular integration approaches, utilize middleware, and consult with IT integration specialists to ensure smooth and efficient system integration. These steps help mitigate risks associated with system disruptions and ensure that the automation aligns well with existing IT infrastructure.

Best IT Automation Tools For Simplifying Your IT Operations

IT automation tools are essential for streamlining operations, reducing manual tasks, and enhancing efficiency.  Here is a list of best IT automation tools which can be crucial for enhancing productivity, saving money, increasing efficiency, and providing better flexibility, hence simplifying your overall IT operation.

ActiveBatch

ActiveBatch is a comprehensive IT automation tool that enables end-to-end workflow automation. It supports diverse environments, including cloud, on-premises, and hybrid. Key features include job scheduling, real-time monitoring, and extensive integrations. It’s popular among large enterprises due to its scalability. Pricing is based on custom quotes, and it receives positive reviews for its flexibility and robust capabilities.

Microsoft Configuration Manager

Microsoft Configuration Manager (formerly SCCM) is a widely used tool for managing large groups of Windows-based computers. Its features include software distribution, patch management, and hardware inventory. It caters primarily to medium to large businesses. Pricing is subscription-based through Microsoft’s Enterprise Agreement. Reviews highlight its comprehensive feature set and integration with other Microsoft services.

Atera

Atera is an all-in-one platform combining RMM (Remote Monitoring and Management), PSA (Professional Services Automation), and remote access. Key features include network discovery, automated patch management, and helpdesk ticketing. Atera is favored by small to medium-sized IT service providers. Pricing is tier-based, starting at $149/month for Professional, $189/month for Expert, and $219/month for Master package. It is priced between $129/month and $209/month for MSPs under Pro, Growth, and Power packages. Users appreciate its user-friendly interface and cost-effectiveness.

Ansible

Ansible by Red Hat is an open-source IT automation engine that automates cloud provisioning, configuration management, and application deployment. Its simplicity and agentless architecture make it a favorite among DevOps teams and system administrators. Pricing for Ansible Tower is at $5,000/year (Basic Tower), $10,000/year (Enterprise Tower), and $14,000/year (Premium Tower) for up to 100 nodes. Reviews commend its ease of use and powerful automation capabilities.

NinjaOne

NinjaOne (formerly NinjaRMM) offers IT management software focused on RMM and endpoint management. Key features include patch management, software inventory, and remote control. It is popular among MSPs and IT departments in SMEs. Pricing is quote-based, with reviews highlighting its ease of deployment and comprehensive toolset.

Puppet

Puppet is a powerful tool for automating the delivery and operation of software across its lifecycle. It is known for IT automation, configuration management, and infrastructure as code (IaC). Enterprises and DevOps teams use Puppet for its scalability, compliance features, and robust automation capabilities. Various plans such as Open Source Puppet, Puppet Enterprise, and Puppet Enterprise Advanced are available. You can request a free quote for these services and decide accordingly. Reviews emphasize its strong community support and extensive ecosystem of modules and integrations.

ManageEngine Endpoint Central

ManageEngine Endpoint Central (formerly Desktop Central) is a unified endpoint management tool that automates patch management, software deployment, and asset management. It is widely used by IT departments in various industries. Pricing is subscription-based with various options like Professional Edition ($795/year), Enterprise Edition ($945/year), UEM Edition ($1,095/year), and Security Edition ($1,695/year). Users appreciate its comprehensive features and intuitive interface.

ConnectWise Automate

ConnectWise Automate (formerly LabTech) is an RMM platform that provides IT automation, monitoring, and management solutions. Key features include remote monitoring, patch management, and scripting. It is popular among MSPs. You can request a quote to view their pricing options. Users often praise its extensive functionality and automation capabilities.

Stonebranch

Stonebranch offers a unified IT automation platform that manages and orchestrates processes across complex IT environments. Its key features include job scheduling, workload automation, and cloud automation. Large enterprises often use Stonebranch for its comprehensive capabilities and scalability. Pricing is quote-based, and it is well-reviewed for its robust performance and enterprise-grade features.

Quixy

Quixy is a no-code platform that enables businesses to automate workflows and build enterprise-grade applications. It features a visual interface for creating custom apps without coding. Quixy is suitable for businesses of all sizes seeking to streamline processes. Pricing starts at $20 per user/month. Reviews highlight its ease of use and flexibility in automating complex workflows.

How to Get into IT Automation?

To get into IT automation, focus on acquiring a strong educational background in fields like computer science or software engineering, develop key programming skills in languages such as Python or JavaScript, and earn specialized certifications such as Certified Jenkins Engineer or Ansible Automation Certification. These qualifications are essential in understanding the core technologies and methodologies that drive IT automation, enhancing your ability to innovate and implement efficient solutions across various industries.

Educational Background

Pursuing degrees in fields related to computer science, information technology, and software engineering can open various pathways into the world of IT automation. Here are some examples of related fields that provide valuable knowledge and skills for a career in IT automation:

• Electrical Engineering: Offers a strong foundation in hardware and systems which are essential for understanding the integration of automation technology.

• Systems Engineering: Focuses on the design and management of complex engineering projects, where automation plays a crucial role.

• Cybersecurity: Provides insights into protecting automated systems and networks, which is critical for implementing secure automation solutions.

• Data Science: Involves the manipulation and analysis of large data sets, often using automated tools to derive insights and drive decision-making processes.

• Artificial Intelligence: Studies the creation of algorithms and software that exhibit human-like intelligence, which is increasingly used in automation for smart decision-making.

• Network Administration: Teaches the management of computer networks, where automation is used to streamline tasks like network configuration, monitoring, and maintenance.

• Robotics: Combines several fields, including computer science, engineering, and electrical systems, to create automated and semi-automated machines that perform various tasks.

Programming Skills

Languages such as Python, Ruby, and JavaScript are commonly used within automation frameworks. Here are additional programming languages that are beneficial for IT automation:

• Java: Widely used for its portability across platforms and robust libraries, making it ideal for complex automation systems that require reliability and scalability.

• PowerShell: Particularly useful for system administrators who work with Windows environments, as it helps automate batch processes and manage system tasks.

• Bash: Essential for scripting on Linux or Unix systems, allowing the automation of command-line tasks and enhancing server management capabilities.

• C#: Often used in conjunction with Microsoft’s .NET framework, C# is valuable for developing automation software that integrates with Windows-based systems.

• Perl: Known for its text processing capabilities, Perl is useful in automation for tasks that involve manipulation and analysis of textual data.

• Go (Golang): Developed by Google, it is gaining popularity for its efficiency in building scalable and high-performance system automation tools.

• SQL: While not a general programming language, SQL (Structured Query Language) is crucial for managing databases through automated queries and operations.

Developing proficiency in these languages, along with an understanding of specific automation frameworks like Selenium for web testing, Puppet and Chef for configuration management, and others, will provide a comprehensive skill set for any IT automation professional.

Specialized Certifications

Certifications such as the Certified Jenkins Engineer, Ansible Automation Certification, and cloud automation tracks from providers like Azure or AWS validate a professional’s skills and knowledge. These credentials not only bolster a resume but also improve credibility and professional growth, making candidates more attractive to potential employers in a competitive job market.

In addition to these, here are other specialized certifications that are highly beneficial for a career in IT automation:

• Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA): Focuses on the skills required to administer Kubernetes clusters, which are essential for managing containerized applications and services.

• Docker Certified Associate (DCA): Validates expertise in managing Docker environments and containerization technology, which is pivotal for modern automation pipelines.

• Terraform Associate Certification: Offered by HashiCorp, it demonstrates knowledge in using Terraform for building, changing, and versioning infrastructure safely and efficiently.

• Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert: Shows proficiency in combining people, processes, and technologies to continuously deliver valuable products and services that meet end user needs and business objectives.

• AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional: Validates technical expertise in provisioning, operating, and managing distributed application systems on the AWS platform.

• Google Professional Cloud DevOps Engineer: Demonstrates skills in efficient development operations that balance service reliability and delivery speed on Google Cloud Platform.

• Cisco Certified DevNet Professional: Validates skills in developing and maintaining applications built on Cisco platforms, relevant for network automation.

Is IT Automation a Good Career Option?

IT automation is an excellent career option, marked by high demand and the need for continuous efficiency and innovation in technology processes. This field ensures job security and opportunities for engaging with cutting-edge technologies, tackling complex problems, and improving operational efficiencies.

Professionals in IT automation benefit from competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, reflecting their crucial role in business process optimization. Career opportunities span across roles like automation engineers, DevOps engineers, and system integration specialists, applicable across various industries such as technology, finance, and healthcare. This variety allows for substantial professional growth and the chance to make significant technological impacts.

How Much Does an IT Automation Engineer Earn?

In 2024, the typical salary range for Automation Engineers is generally between $104,367 and $125,479, with the average base salary being about $114,377, as mentioned in Salary.com. 

Factors that influence these salaries include the level of experience, where entry-level positions earn less compared to mid-level and senior roles, which see substantial increases in potential earnings. Additionally, possessing skills in high-demand platforms like AWS or Azure, or programming languages such as Python or Ruby, can significantly boost earning potential. Advanced certifications such as Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) or AWS Certified DevOps Engineer also enhance salary prospects. Geographical location plays a critical role as well, with tech hubs or cities with a higher cost of living typically offering higher average pay.

What Is the Future of IT Automation?

The future of IT automation is poised to transform modern IT operations significantly, advancing from basic task automation to sophisticated systems capable of predictive analytics and autonomous decision-making. As IT automation integrates deeper into business processes, it will leverage cutting-edge technologies to enhance operational efficiencies and reduce human intervention even further.

Advanced Automation Technologies:

• AI and Machine Learning: These technologies are increasingly integrated into IT automation, enhancing systems’ ability to perform predictive analytics. For instance, AI-driven automation can predict system failures and automatically initiate corrective actions, thereby reducing downtime and operational costs.
• Augmented Reality (AR): AR is transforming IT automation, especially in complex system diagnostics, maintenance, and training. It improves interactions between human operators and automated systems, making complex processes more accessible and less error-prone. For example, AR can provide real-time visual instructions to technicians, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.
• Generative AI: This technology contributes significantly by generating code, configuring systems, and designing new algorithms for increased operational efficiency and optimization.
• Internet of Things (IoT): IoT devices are integral to IT automation strategies, providing vast data inputs that allow automated systems to be more responsive and adaptively manage IT operations.
• Security Testing Automation: Advances in automated security protocols, such as automated vulnerability scanning and patch management, are enhancing the security posture of IT environments, making them more resilient against threats.

Enhanced Capabilities:

• Comprehensive Automation from Bare Metal to Middleware: Modern IT automation now spans all layers of IT infrastructure, from hardware to software applications and middleware, creating a fully integrated automation strategy.
• Autonomous Security Operations: Future IT automation will likely include autonomous security measures where risks are automatically detected, reported, patched, tested, and deployed, minimizing downtime and ensuring robust security measures.
• Self-Healing Systems: These systems can automatically diagnose and repair errors, recover from failures without impacting system uptime, and continuously analyze data to detect and address security threats or operational anomalies.

The evolution of IT automation necessitates continuous research and development to keep pace with technological advancements, ensuring innovation and adaptability remain at the forefront of IT strategies. As new technologies and methodologies emerge, IT automation will increasingly become a cornerstone of efficient, secure, and proactive IT operations.