Enhancing cognitive automation capabilities with reinforcement learning techniques in robotic process automation using UiPath and automation anywhere

Debbadi, Rama Krishna and Boateng, Obed (2025) Enhancing cognitive automation capabilities with reinforcement learning techniques in robotic process automation using UiPath and automation anywhere. International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 14 (2). pp. 733-752. ISSN 2582-8185

Cognitive automation represents the next frontier in Robotic Process Automation (RPA), enabling systems to learn, adapt, and optimize decision-making processes dynamically. Traditional RPA platforms, such as UiPath and Automation Anywhere, excel in automating rule-based tasks but lack the ability to handle complex, evolving scenarios that require adaptive intelligence. Integrating reinforcement learning (RL) techniques into RPA workflows offers a transformative approach to enhancing cognitive automation capabilities. RL enables bots to make intelligent, data-driven decisions by learning from their environment, optimizing workflows, and improving operational efficiency over time. This study explores the integration of RL algorithms within UiPath and Automation Anywhere to develop self-learning automation systems capable of handling non-deterministic processes. Key applications include intelligent exception handling, dynamic process optimization, and adaptive customer service automation. By leveraging RL-based decision models, RPA bots can continuously improve their performance, reduce error rates, and optimize workflows beyond predefined rules. The research also examines challenges such as computational complexity, model interpretability, and integration barriers within enterprise automation environments. Solutions such as cloud-based reinforcement learning frameworks, hybrid AI-RPA architectures, and explainable AI techniques are proposed to mitigate these challenges. The findings indicate that reinforcement learning can significantly enhance cognitive automation in RPA, enabling businesses to achieve higher levels of efficiency, adaptability, and intelligent decision-making.