The Client

Bannister Transport, established in 1965, is a specialist in temperature-controlled distribution, headquartered in the Vale of Evesham. This strategic location enables efficient national coverage across the UK. The company is committed to eco-friendly logistics, employing cutting-edge technologies to ensure precise temperature management while minimising environmental impact. Initiatives include the use of electric vehicles and energy-efficient warehousing, aligning with forward-thinking practices. Bannister Transport’s dedication to sustainability sets a new standard in the industry, contributing to a greener and more efficient future in temperature-sensitive logistics.

The Challenge

Bannister’s delivery tracking process relied heavily on manual data entry. Drivers completed Proof of Delivery (POD) notes for every job, recording key details such as job numbers, delivery dates, and locations. Each week, approximately 200 PODs had to be manually entered into the system—a labour-intensive process that was slow, error-prone, and a drain on staff resources.

The inefficiencies caused:
• Delays in processing deliveries
• Increased risk of human error in data entry
• A reliance on manual verification, consuming valuable time

Bannister recognised the need for an automated solution to improve efficiency and accuracy while freeing up employees for higher-value tasks.

The Solution

To eliminate the inefficiencies of manual data entry, Emerge Digital developed an AI-powered solution leveraging Azure AI and computer vision. Now, instead of manually inputting POD notes, drivers scan their documents, which are automatically emailed to the AI system. The AI processes the scanned documents, extracts key data such as job numbers and delivery dates, and assigns a confidence score based on text recognition accuracy.

If the confidence score meets the threshold, the data is entered into Bannister’s system automatically. If not, it is flagged for manual review. Over time, the AI model continuously improves by learning from flagged entries, increasing its accuracy and reducing the need for human intervention.

The Outcome

The AI solution has transformed Bannister’s operations, eliminating the need for manual data entry while improving accuracy and efficiency. Deliveries are now processed faster, with significantly fewer errors, ensuring that customers receive real-time updates without delays. Employees previously tasked with repetitive data entry have been redeployed to higher-value roles, contributing to business growth rather than being tied up in administrative work.

Key benefits include:
• A faster and more reliable data processing workflow
• A drastic reduction in human errors, improving overall data integrity
• A cost-effective solution, running at just £60 per month
• A self-learning AI model that continuously improves its recognition capabilities

As the AI solution continues to evolve, Bannister is seeing ongoing operational improvements, reinforcing their commitment to efficiency and service excellence.

What is an Automation Consultant?

An automation consultant is a professional who specialises in identifying, designing, and implementing automated processes within a business. Their goal is to help organisations optimise operations by leveraging tools like Robotic Process Automation (RPA), artificial intelligence (AI), and workflow management systems. By understanding your business objectives and challenges, they tailor automation solutions to deliver measurable outcomes.

In essence, an automation consultant bridges the gap between technology and business strategy. They not only recommend tools and software but also align automation initiatives with your organisation’s goals to ensure seamless integration and lasting impact.

 

What Does an Automation Consultant Do?

An automation consultant’s work typically involves four key stages:

Assessment and Analysis

They start by evaluating your existing processes and identifying inefficiencies or bottlenecks. This phase often includes interviews with stakeholders, process mapping, and cost-benefit analyses to determine where automation will be most impactful.

Solution Design

Once areas for improvement are identified, the consultant designs bespoke automation strategies. This might involve selecting appropriate technologies (e.g., Power Automate, Zapier, or AI-driven solutions) and defining workflows that integrate seamlessly into your operations.

Implementation

During this phase, the consultant oversees the deployment of automation tools and ensures they’re correctly configured. This might involve collaborating with IT teams, training staff, and conducting testing to iron out any issues.

Ongoing Optimisation

Automation isn’t a one-and-done process. A skilled automation consultant will monitor the performance of automated workflows, recommend refinements, and introduce new technologies as your business evolves.

Why Hire an Automation Consultant?

Hiring an automation consultant offers several benefits, including:

Improved Efficiency: Automating repetitive tasks frees up employees to focus on strategic, high-value work.

Cost Savings: Automation reduces errors, cuts down on time-intensive processes, and streamlines resource allocation.

Scalability: Automation solutions can grow with your business, making it easier to handle increased workloads without additional hires.

Expertise and Guidance: With their specialised knowledge, automation consultants can help you avoid common pitfalls and maximise ROI.

Without the guidance of an automation consultant, businesses often face challenges such as poorly implemented tools, resistance from employees, or lack of alignment with broader goals. A consultant ensures your investment in automation delivers tangible, sustainable results.

How to Hire an Automation Consultant

Finding the right automation consultant requires careful consideration. Here are six steps to guide your search:

Define Your Goals

Before engaging with a consultant, clarify what you want to achieve through automation. Are you looking to improve customer service? Reduce manual data entry? Enhance supply chain operations? A clear understanding of your goals will help you identify a consultant with relevant expertise.

Look for Experience

Seek consultants with a proven track record in your industry. Their understanding of sector-specific challenges and regulations can make a significant difference in the success of your automation initiatives.

Evaluate Technical Skills

A great automation consultant will have experience with a variety of tools and platforms, from RPA software to cloud-based systems like Microsoft Power Automate or UiPath. During the hiring process, ask about their familiarity with technologies you’re considering.

Request Case Studies or References

A reputable consultant should be able to provide examples of past projects and the results they’ve delivered. Testimonials from previous clients can give you confidence in their capabilities.

Assess Communication and Collaboration Skills

An automation consultant must work closely with your team. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with both technical and non-technical staff are essential.

Start with a Small Project

If you’re unsure about a candidate’s fit, consider starting with a smaller, less critical project. This allows you to evaluate their approach and results before committing to a larger initiative.

Conclusion

So, what is an automation consultant? They are the experts who help businesses unlock their potential by streamlining operations, reducing costs, and driving efficiency. Whether you’re an SME or a large organisation, the right consultant can transform the way you work, ensuring your automation journey is smooth, strategic, and impactful.

Hiring an automation consultant may feel daunting, but by following the steps outlined above, you can find an expert who aligns with your goals and delivers measurable value. Automation is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for businesses looking to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. With the right guidance, you can make automation a cornerstone of your success.

About Us

Emerge Digital is a technology and digital innovation company and Managed Services Provider dedicated to helping SMEs achieve tech-powered growth.

Our team of experts combines technical know-how with strategic insight, delivering bespoke automation strategies tailored to your business. Whether you’re just beginning your automation journey or seeking to optimise existing workflows, we’re here to help.

 

What Does an AI Consultant Do?

An AI consultant specialises in bridging the gap between advanced technologies and practical business solutions. Their role extends beyond recommending software or implementing tools; they craft strategies that align with a company’s unique goals, ensuring AI adoption drives measurable value.

Here are some key responsibilities of an AI consultant:

Problem Identification

AI consultants begin by identifying business challenges that can be solved with AI. They conduct assessments to determine where automation, data insights, or predictive modelling could streamline operations, enhance decision-making, or reduce costs.

Strategy Development

Once the challenges are clear, AI consultants design tailored strategies. This includes selecting appropriate technologies, defining objectives, and outlining a roadmap for implementation. For example, they might recommend AI-powered chatbots to improve customer service or predictive analytics to optimise supply chains.

Data Analysis and Preparation

Data is the lifeblood of AI. Consultants assess the quality and quantity of your data, ensuring it is suitable for AI applications. They may also assist in collecting, cleaning, and structuring data to maximise AI’s effectiveness.

Solution Implementation

From deploying machine learning algorithms to integrating tools like Microsoft Copilot, AI consultants oversee the implementation process. They ensure systems are not only functional but also seamlessly integrated with existing operations.

Training and Support

AI adoption often requires a cultural shift. Consultants provide training and resources to ensure teams understand how to use AI tools effectively. They also offer ongoing support to optimise performance and address any challenges.

Performance Monitoring and Optimisation

AI isn’t a set-and-forget solution. Consultants continually monitor AI systems, refining algorithms and processes to ensure they deliver long-term value.

Why Work with an AI Consultant?

AI consultants bring a wealth of expertise that businesses may not have in-house. Their ability to align cutting-edge technology with commercial outcomes is invaluable. Partnering with an AI consultant allows companies to:

– Save time and resources by avoiding trial-and-error approaches.

– Accelerate innovation with proven methodologies and tools.

– Gain a competitive edge through tailored, data-driven solutions.

 

How to Work with an AI Consultant Effectively

Collaborating with an AI consultant requires more than just signing a contract. A successful partnership demands preparation, clarity, and ongoing engagement. Here’s how to get it right:

Define Your Goals

Before engaging an AI consultant, identify your business objectives. Are you looking to automate repetitive tasks, improve customer engagement, or gain deeper insights into market trends? Clear goals will guide the consultant’s recommendations and help measure success.

Ensure Data Readiness

AI thrives on quality data. Work with your consultant to assess your existing data systems and address any gaps. This step is crucial, as poor-quality data can lead to subpar AI performance.

Foster Collaboration

AI consultants are most effective when they work closely with internal teams. Encourage open communication between your staff and the consultant to ensure the solution aligns with your workflows and company culture.

Be Open to Change

AI adoption often involves rethinking processes and embracing new ways of working. Stay open to feedback and be prepared to adapt as the consultant refines solutions.

Monitor Progress

Set clear milestones and KPIs to track the impact of AI initiatives. Regular check-ins with your consultant will ensure the project stays on course and delivers the desired outcomes.

Partner with the Right Expert

Choosing a consultancy with a proven track record is key to achieving meaningful results. At Emerge Digital, we specialise in designing AI strategies tailored to your business goals, ensuring solutions deliver measurable growth and efficiency. Whether it’s implementing tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot or creating bespoke AI solutions, our team collaborates with you at every step to unlock the full potential of AI in your organisation.

The Future of AI Consulting

As AI continues to evolve, so does the role of AI consultants. They are increasingly focused on ensuring ethical AI use, addressing challenges like bias, and helping businesses meet regulatory requirements. Whether it’s guiding small enterprises through their first AI project or helping large organisations scale their AI capabilities, consultants remain pivotal to success in a tech-driven world.

Conclusion

So, what does an AI consultant do? They are strategic partners who guide businesses through the complexities of AI adoption, ensuring technology drives tangible results. By defining clear goals, fostering collaboration, and maintaining open communication, companies can build a fruitful relationship with their AI consultant.

AI has the power to revolutionise industries—but only when applied effectively. With the right consultant by your side, your business can move from navigating the complexities of AI to thriving in a tech-powered future.

 

About Us

Emerge Digital is a technology and digital innovation company and Managed Services Provider dedicated to helping SMEs achieve tech-powered growth.

As a leading Managed Services Provider and AI consultancy, we design tailored solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and competitive advantage. From Microsoft 365 Copilot implementation to bespoke AI strategies, our expertise ensures that technology works for your business—not the other way around.

What is Robotic Process Automation in Finance?

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) uses software “robots” to perform repetitive tasks that typically require human input. These digital workers operate at high speed and precision, handling data entry, reconciliations, reporting, and even complex processes like fraud detection and compliance monitoring.

In finance, RPA can automate tasks ranging from accounts payable to financial reporting. By mimicking the steps a human would take, RPA tools integrate with existing finance systems to handle tasks without significant changes to your infrastructure.

Benefits of RPA in Finance

Implementing robotic process automation in finance has a number of compelling benefits:

Increased Efficiency: RPA accelerates routine finance tasks, reducing the time required for each process.

Enhanced Accuracy: Automated processes minimise human errors, which are especially critical in finance due to the potential impact on compliance and reporting.

Cost Savings: By automating manual tasks, companies can reallocate resources to more strategic initiatives, reducing costs in the long term.

Compliance and Risk Management: RPA helps maintain compliance by following predefined rules and logging each action, which is vital for audits and regulatory reporting.

Scalability: Once an RPA process is set up, it can handle a high volume of tasks without additional resources, making it ideal for growing finance functions.

Key Applications of RPA in Finance

Robotic process automation in finance spans multiple applications that can transform both front- and back-office operations. Below are some key areas where RPA can make a difference:

Accounts Payable and Receivable

RPA can automate the end-to-end processing of invoices, from receipt to payment, including data extraction, verification, and entry into your finance system. With robotic process automation, finance teams can improve the speed and accuracy of accounts payable and accounts receivable processes, reducing manual data entry errors and late payments.

Reconciliation

Bank reconciliations are a time-consuming task requiring meticulous attention to detail. RPA can automatically match transactions from bank statements with those in the finance system, identifying discrepancies for further investigation. By eliminating the manual aspect of reconciliation, RPA enhances the speed and precision of these essential financial processes.

Financial Reporting and Analysis

Monthly and quarterly reporting involves pulling data from multiple sources, which is often a manual task. RPA can gather, validate, and consolidate data from different financial systems, producing accurate and timely reports. This automation improves the reliability of financial insights, enabling finance teams to make informed decisions.

Compliance and Audit Trails

Maintaining compliance with regulatory standards is critical in finance. RPA ensures that processes are followed consistently by creating audit trails for each transaction, making it easier to track and monitor compliance. Automated compliance monitoring reduces the likelihood of fines and penalties, supporting a robust risk management strategy.

Budgeting and Forecasting

Budgeting and forecasting require analysing large data sets to predict future trends. RPA can assist by quickly collecting and processing data from various sources, allowing finance teams to focus on interpreting the results rather than gathering data. This not only improves forecasting accuracy but also accelerates the budgeting process.

Payroll Processing

Payroll involves gathering information from timesheets, attendance records, and compensation systems, making it a highly repetitive task. RPA can streamline payroll processing by extracting data, verifying calculations, and ensuring timely and accurate payments. Automated payroll processing reduces the administrative burden on HR and finance teams, allowing them to focus on employee engagement and development.

Implementing RPA in Finance: Steps to Success

To get the most from robotic process automation in finance, it’s essential to approach implementation strategically. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:

Identify Processes for Automation

Start by assessing the processes within your finance function that are repetitive, time-consuming, and prone to errors. Typical candidates include data entry, reconciliations, and reporting. Prioritise processes that will yield the greatest impact when automated.

Select the Right RPA Tool

The next step is choosing an RPA platform that integrates well with your finance systems. Factors to consider include ease of use, scalability, and the level of support provided by the vendor. Popular RPA tools for finance include UiPath, Blue Prism, and Automation Anywhere.

Test and Validate the RPA Solution

Before rolling out RPA across your finance department, conduct a pilot programme to test the effectiveness of your chosen solution. This phase allows you to identify potential issues and gather feedback from finance team members, ensuring a smoother rollout.

Train Staff on RPA Use

Staff training is essential to ensure that the finance team can operate and manage RPA tools effectively. Training should cover not only the technical aspects of RPA but also how to work collaboratively with digital tools to achieve maximum efficiency.

Monitor and Optimise RPA Processes

Once implemented, continuously monitor the performance of your RPA processes and make adjustments as needed. Regular reviews ensure that your RPA implementation remains aligned with the changing needs of your finance function.

Conclusion

Robotic process automation in finance offers a powerful way to streamline operations, reduce errors, and support compliance. By automating repetitive tasks, finance teams can free up time to focus on strategic activities that add value to the business. As finance functions increasingly adopt RPA, it’s clear that automation is no longer a luxury but a necessity for staying competitive.

If your finance team is bogged down by manual processes, it’s time to consider the transformative potential of RPA. Whether you’re looking to improve accounts payable or enhance financial reporting accuracy, robotic process automation in finance can help you achieve a more agile, efficient finance function.

About Us

Emerge Digital is a technology and digital innovation company and Managed Services Provider dedicated to helping SMEs achieve tech-powered growth.

With a focus on advanced automation solutions, cybersecurity, and IT support, we empower finance teams to operate more efficiently and stay ahead of the competition. Our expert team understands the unique needs of finance departments and can tailor RPA solutions that align with your business goals. Connect with us today to learn how we can support your finance transformation journey.

Power BI UK Pricing: An Overview

Microsoft offers a few pricing plans for Power BI, each tailored to different scales and needs of businesses. Here’s a quick rundown of the three primary options

Power BI Free

Best suited for individuals or businesses starting out with BI who want to analyse data and create basic reports. It’s ideal for individual use but has limited sharing capabilities.

Power BI Pro

Priced at £10.80 per user per month (paid yearly) in the UK, this option is great for businesses that need team collaboration, sharing of dashboards, and access to Microsoft’s full suite of features.

Power BI Premium

Microsoft also offers the Premium per User (PPU) model, priced at around £18.50 per user per month (paid yearly). It’s designed for organisations that want to access Premium features without a dedicated capacity.

Key Features by Pricing Tier

Understanding the features provided at each level will help you determine which package offers the best value for your specific needs.

Power BI Free

Best for: Individuals or small businesses with limited analytical needs.

Features: Basic dashboards, data visualisation, and access to Power BI desktop and mobile apps.

Limitations: Lack of collaboration options; data cannot be shared with other users.

Power BI Pro

Best for: SMEs that need collaborative data tools and seamless integration within Microsoft’s ecosystem.

Features: Real-time dashboard sharing, custom data visualisation, data collaboration, and app workspaces.

Limitations: Limited scalability; not ideal for organisations handling extremely large datasets.

Power BI Premium Per User (PPU)

Best for: Growing organisations needing more robust features for a small team without a dedicated capacity.

Features: Larger data model sizes, AI insights, and advanced data flows.

Limitations: Per-user costs can add up for larger teams, and it may be more cost-effective to upgrade to Premium dedicated capacity.

Determining Value: Which Pricing Plan Is Right for You?

Choosing the best Power BI UK pricing plan involves considering not just your current needs, but also future scalability, data volume, and required collaboration features. Here are some guidelines:

Assess Your Data Requirements

Start by evaluating how much data your business generates and needs to process. Power BI Free is perfect for individuals or small-scale projects, but for teams that rely on data to make quick, collaborative decisions, Power BI Pro or Premium Per User are better options. Premium, on the other hand, caters to enterprises with high volumes of data and complex analytical needs.

Consider Your Team Size

For teams needing to work collaboratively on reports and dashboards, Power BI Pro offers excellent value with unlimited sharing and collaboration for £7.50 per user per month. However, if you’re dealing with large datasets or complex reporting, Premium Per User could be a more suitable choice for teams wanting advanced features at an incremental cost per user.

Future Scalability

As your business grows, data requirements are likely to increase. Investing in Power BI Premium offers dedicated capacity, scalability, and advanced AI-driven insights – key components for data-driven growth.

Evaluate Feature Importance

If you’re looking for advanced features such as paginated reporting or AI-based insights, the Premium and Premium Per User models are the way to go. Organisations needing to deliver reports to clients or stakeholders outside the organisation will also benefit from Premium’s external distribution options.

Tips to Get the Most Value from Power BI in the UK

Leverage the Free Trial

Microsoft offers a free trial for Power BI Pro. This is a great way to explore the benefits of shared dashboards and team collaboration. Evaluate the functionality before committing to a monthly subscription.

Training and Optimisation

Investing in training sessions for Power BI will empower your team to maximise the tool’s potential. Advanced users can leverage features like AI insights or custom visualisations, which often go unused but provide substantial value.

Partner with an Expert

For businesses looking to truly leverage Power BI, partnering with an expert consultancy, such as Emerge Digital, can offer valuable insights and customisation. A tailored solution with a strategic roadmap for implementation and training will ensure you maximise the value of Power BI for your unique business challenges.

Keep an Eye on Microsoft Updates

Microsoft frequently releases new features and updates for Power BI. Staying informed can help you make the most of new functionalities and enhancements that could increase your ROI.

 

Conclusion

Power BI offers a range of pricing options designed to cater to different business needs, from individual users to large enterprises. By understanding your requirements, evaluating the available features, and planning for future growth, you can select a Power BI UK pricing plan that provides the best value for your money. Whether you’re just beginning to leverage data insights or seeking advanced analytics at scale, Power BI’s options empower UK businesses to make better-informed, data-driven decisions.

 

About Us

Emerge Digital is a technology and digital innovation company and Managed Services Provider dedicated to helping SMEs achieve tech-powered growth.

From implementing Power BI and custom reporting to training and long-term support, we help you get the most value from your data. In understanding Power BI UK pricing, the key to unlocking value lies in matching the right plan to your data requirements and long-term business strategy.