Functions

Based on our RPA consulting experience, we developed a "Function" feature to help you manage big projects without copying the same code in multiple processes. Those functions contain a part of the code that you can either share within the process itself or use as many times as needed. You can use them in the Execute Function Step. You can find more information about that step by clicking on the following link.

To create a Function, simply navigate to the Function menu and click on "Create function". With this simple action, you'll be able to easily create and manage functions that will help your team work more effectively and achieve better results.

Functions and Process in an RPA Platform

As functions are a part of the process, they share the same features as a process. Furthermore, each function can have multiple inputs and multiple output parameters. For example, we can extract the opening of the application and log into that application as a function. Input parameters could be username and password, while the output could be a Boolean variable that denotes whether the login was successful. 

Additionally, we can apply this function in all processes that use that application. If we have to make some changes to it, we can easily modify the function and after saving the process, the process will execute the latest version of the function that was saved. This is to ensure that if someone makes changes to the function used in the production process, you can be confident that your process will utilize the version that is known to work. Additionally, to use the latest version, simply save the process again, and the process will use the new function version.

Function Manipulation

Also, functions are used within a process to separate it into smaller sections. With it, we gain better control of the entire process. That way, you can test each part of the process separately, and if any process change occurs, you can edit only the function that caused it - without changing the whole process. 

Keep in mind that functions don't have stages, and any change you make will affect the process immediately. In case an error occurs, robotically automated processes are capable of handling them, too. 

Execution

For executing function, you need to provide:

• Input parameters (whether as a fixed value or an existing variable.)
• Variables for output parameters. 

Furthermore, functions can be local or external:

• Local functions are created inside a process and can be used only in that process (they are not visible in other processes, see more at link)
• External functions are shared within your Organization - you can use them in any process (in every department) in HQ

There are no limitations to the number of functions in the process - you can use them as many times as you want. Also, executing other functions inside the existing one is supported.