Image Source: AI Generated
Implementing robotic process automation (RPA) can be expensive, particularly for small businesses and startups. We researched and put together a list of the best open source RPA tools to help you automate repetitive tasks cost-effectively. These tools provide powerful automation features and you retain control with the transparency of open-source software.
Our curated selection has versatile platforms that support Python programming and merge AI capabilities. The list highlights five outstanding open source RPA tools in 2024, ranging from the accessible Robot Framework to the user-friendly TagUI. Each tool brings distinct features and advantages to help you pick the right solution for your automation requirements.
Robot Framework
Image Source: Robot Framework User Guide
Robot Framework emerges as a powerful Python-based automation framework [1]. This tool has evolved beyond its testing roots to become a detailed RPA solution. The framework impresses users with its versatility and extensive ecosystem of libraries.
Robot Framework overview
Robot Framework’s automation approach combines simplicity with powerful capabilities. Python is its foundation, and it uses a keyword-driven approach that makes automation available to team members who don’t have extensive programming experience [2]. The framework’s modular architecture makes it special because teams can add functionality through libraries and tools that are developed separately [3].
The framework lets you write automation scripts in natural, easy-to-understand language [4]. Teams can implement RPA solutions quickly because the learning curve is much lower. The framework works consistently on all operating systems, which makes it a reliable choice [1].
Robot Framework key features
Our analysis of core capabilities reveals several standout features that make Robot Framework a compelling choice:
- Simple Tabular Syntax: Creates test cases in a uniform, easy-to-read format
- Extensive Library Support: Has built-in libraries for:
- Web automation
- Database interaction
- API testing
- Desktop automation
- Detailed Reporting: Generates complete HTML reports and logs
- Cross-platform Compatibility: Runs naturally on Windows, Linux, and Mac
The framework’s modular architecture stands out as a key strength [3]. Users can create reusable higher-level keywords from existing ones that make automation development much faster. On top of that, its built-in support for variables proves especially useful for testing in different environments [3].
Robot Framework use cases
Our analysis reveals several areas where Robot Framework stands out. This framework works exceptionally well in:
- Business Process Automation
- Data entry automation
- Order processing
- Customer service operations [4]
- Administrative Task Management
- Email automation
- Report generation
- File management systems [4]
Robot Framework shows its strength in web automation scenarios and uses Selenium library capabilities to interact smoothly with web applications [5]. The framework handles complex workflows well, making it perfect for enterprise-level robotics applications [6].
Robot Framework stands out because it handles complex business processes while staying budget-friendly [6]. Organizations that use this tool can substantially reduce their workload and spend more time on high-value tasks. The framework connects well with cloud providers, which makes it versatile for modern automation needs [6].
Teams worried about governance and dependency management will find that Robot Framework offers resilient solutions. Its environment caching and wrapping features help you retain control over dependencies, which keeps production bots stable and reliable [7].
TagUI
Image Source: GitHub
TagUI stands out among open source RPA tools with its blend of simplicity and powerful automation capabilities. AI Singapore’s creation has grown into a strong platform that thrives through community support and open-source contributions [8].
TagUI overview
We found that TagUI takes a unique approach to automation and converts human intentions in different languages into working JavaScript code. The platform runs directly on users’ computers as an on-premises solution instead of using cloud infrastructure [8]. TagUI stands out because users can handle complex automation tasks without extensive coding knowledge [9].
The architecture uses multiple powerful technologies under the hood, including:
- Chrome DevTools Protocol
- Sikuli
- CasperJS
- PhantomJS
- SlimerJS
TagUI key features
TagUI stands out in the open source RPA world with several unique features. The platform lets teams write scripts in over 20 human languages, which makes it available to teams worldwide [8]. Its ability to work with both Python and R is impressive as it enables advanced AI and machine learning implementations [10].
Key capabilities include:
- Visual Automation: Detailed desktop and web automation support
- Natural Language Syntax: Write automation scripts in plain language
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Works naturally on Windows, MacOS, and Linux [11]
- Excel Integration: Advanced Excel automation with formula support
- API Integration: Single-line API calls for service integration
The new TagUI turbo mode is remarkable as it runs automation tasks up to 10 times faster than normal human speed [8]. Microsoft Office applications work well with TagUI, especially through plugins that help users create and deploy Word documents as RPA robots [8].
TagUI use cases
Our research has revealed many practical ways to use TagUI effectively. The platform shines in process automation, data acquisition, and web application testing [11].
Here are some notable ways we’ve seen it used:
- Financial Operations
- Automated forex rate retrieval from banking websites
- Scheduled report generation and distribution
- Invoice processing with machine learning integration
- Document Processing
- Automated printing of customized letters
- Bulk PDF data extraction
- Excel data manipulation and reporting
TagUI’s Python integration has shown remarkable results with SSRS (SQL Server Reporting Services) report automation. This allows scheduled downloads and data processing [12]. Organizations can streamline their operations because the platform handles both web and desktop automation effectively.
The sort of thing I love about TagUI is its approach to security and compliance. The tool runs on local user devices without storing official data. Companies don’t need industry certifications like PCI-SS, SOX, or HIPAA to implement business process automation [10]. This makes it perfect for organizations that have strict data security requirements.
Teams new to RPA will appreciate TagUI’s user-friendly interface and extensive support options. The platform makes shared automation development possible by letting up to 15 users manage different sessions on the same device [10]. It also connects smoothly with Microsoft Power Automate Desktop, which helps teams that already use Microsoft’s automation tools [8].
Robocorp
Image Source: Sema4.ai
Our research into Python-based automation solutions shows that Robocorp represents the most important progress in open source RPA tools. The platform has grown from an open-source test automation project and established itself as a powerful second-generation RPA solution [13]. The system impresses us by combining open-source development’s flexibility with enterprise-grade capabilities.
Robocorp overview
Robocorp stands out with its unique RPA development approach that uses Python as the main language and supports RobotFramework for automation tasks [14]. This dual approach gives teams great flexibility regardless of their skill levels. The platform’s cloud-native architecture lets users pay based on actual consumption instead of traditional licensing fees [13].
Robocorp has built its development environment around Visual Studio Code, after moving away from its earlier Automation Studio for visual development [14]. The platform shows its professional focus by recommending VS Code with two key extensions: ‘Robocorp Code’ and ‘RobotFramework Language Server’ [14].
Robocorp key features
Our analysis shows why Robocorp stands out as a great option for organizations looking for open source robotic process automation solutions:
- Development Flexibility
- Python and RobotFramework support
- Cloud-native architecture
- Consumption-based pricing model
- Rich library ecosystem [15]
Robocorp’s Control Room is one of the best features we’ve seen. This centralized management platform helps distribute, monitor, and manage RPA bots in organizations of all sizes [14]. The platform consistently scores better than its competitors in service, support, and ease of deployment [16].
The platform’s security and compliance features protect your data with strong encryption and secure credential management [15]. The framework makes shared development possible so team members can work together smoothly with complete version control features.
Robocorp use cases
Our research reveals many real-world applications where Robocorp stands out. The platform shows its true strength in:
- Financial Operations
- Automated report generation
- Invoice processing
- Financial controls strengthening [17]
- Enterprise Integration
- Smooth ERP system integration
- CRM automation
- Data platform connectivity [17]
Robocorp’s browser automation features pack quite a punch. Users can choose between RPA.Browser.Selenium for traditional automation needs and RPA.Browser.Playwright for modern scenarios [18]. This gives organizations the right tools that match their needs.
Real-world applications showcase the platform’s true value. Customer support automation delivers impressive results, especially when you have Citrix environments and ticket management systems [19]. Teams report their processes are now faster and more accurate.
Robocorp stands out from other open source RPA tools because of its all-encompassing approach to automation development. Teams looking to build their automation expertise will find great value in the platform’s detailed documentation and Beginners’ certification course [18].
The platform’s integration capabilities handle automation tasks brilliantly:
| Automation Type | Capabilities |
| Web Applications | Advanced browser control and API integration |
| Desktop Software | Cross-platform automation support |
| Enterprise Systems | Direct integration with business applications |
| Cloud Services | Native cloud orchestration and scaling |
Our evaluation shows that Robocorp makes RPA development much easier without sacrificing enterprise-level power and flexibility [13]. Organizations with different technical skill levels benefit from the platform’s ability to switch between low-code business domain experts and pro-code developers [13].
Taskt
Image Source: GitHub
Taskt emerges as a standout solution in a variety of open source RPA tools. We found it to be the first truly free automation platform built on the .NET Framework in C# [20]. The platform proves valuable especially when you have existing .NET infrastructure or developers.
Taskt overview
Taskt, formerly known as sharpRPA, brings a refreshing approach to process automation with its no-code/low-code interface that makes automation capabilities available to everyone [21]. The platform combines the power of the .NET framework with an accessible interface that works well for developers and business users.
The platform needs minimal system requirements and works effectively for organizations of all sizes. Taskt runs smoothly on:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 and above |
| Server Support | 2012/2016 R/2019 |
| RAM | 4GB (2GB minimum) |
| Storage | 1GB minimum |
| Framework | .NET 4.8+ |
| Processors | 2 CPUs minimum [22] |
Taskt key features
Our extensive evaluation of Taskt reveals several standout features that make it an excellent choice for automation needs. The platform’s WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) bot designer stands out impressively and offers dozens of automation commands without API integration [21].
These valuable capabilities include:
- Screen Recording Capabilities
- Element recorder for precise automation
- Screen activity capture and replay
- Automated script generation [23]
- Bot Configuration System
- Script-based bot development
- Runtime parameter customization
- Integrated script engine [23]
- Integration Features
- Direct Excel workbook manipulation
- OCR capabilities (with OneNote)
- Custom code execution support [23]
Taskt excels at working with both web and desktop applications and simulates human actions effectively [23]. The platform’s screen recorder feature emerges as a unique capability that lets users transform recorded steps into bot scripts directly [22].
Taskt use cases
Our analysis shows many practical ways Taskt helps automate business processes. The platform works well in organizations of all sizes that want to make their operations more efficient.
Taskt’s best feature is knowing how to handle data entry and processing tasks. The platform shines in:
- Financial Operations
- Data entry automation
- Report generation
- Transaction processing [6]
- Business Process Management
- HR workflow automation
- Accounting rule implementation
- Document processing [6]
Taskt’s server component adds a new layer to automation and lets you monitor bot health remotely [23]. This feature helps organizations manage multiple automation workflows in different departments.
Taskt stands out because it handles large amounts of incoming data quickly [6]. The platform’s easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface lets businesses transform their traditional processes. Users with different technical backgrounds can create complex automations without much effort.
Custom code execution makes the platform even more powerful, especially when organizations have specific needs. Our tests show that Taskt can make use of existing .NET DLLs and services. The platform’s Custom Code command also supports code compilation as needed [23].
Organizations that care about privacy and data security will appreciate Taskt’s on-premises deployment model. The platform gives you complete control over automation processes and data, which makes it perfect for industries that must meet strict compliance requirements [20].
OpenRPA
Image Source: openrpa.dk
Organizations achieve substantial returns through OpenRPA automation investments. Our research shows businesses typically see a 150% ROI in the first year [24]. This mature and strong solution, which is part of the OpenIAP (Integrated Automation Platforms) project, stands out because it helps reduce manual errors effectively. The data reveals that 50% of users reporting improved regulatory compliance [24] demonstrates its significant impact.
OpenRPA overview
OpenRPA brings a most important breakthrough in the open-source RPA world. It serves as the main environment to outline and build processes [14]. The sort of thing I love about it is how it works with the OpenIAP project. The platform stays active with updates that happen several times each week [14].
The platform’s structure utilizes Windows Workflow Foundation (.NET 4.6.2) that works well for enterprise deployments. The low-code approach stands out as one of its best features. It offers a drag-and-drop interface much like UiPath [14]. Users can focus on visual modeling instead of coding because the accessible graphical interfaces make process implementation simple.
OpenRPA key features
Our testing revealed several standout features that make OpenRPA a powerful choice to automate your work:
| Feature Category | Capabilities |
|---|---|
| Development Interface | Drag-and-drop workflow designer |
| Security | Enterprise-grade encryption |
| Integration | Leading cloud provider support |
| Management | Remote deployment and monitoring |
| Analytics | Detailed dashboards |
| Planning | Advanced scheduling capabilities |
The sort of thing I love about OpenRPA is its toolbox functionality. It works like a physical toolbox that organizes various activities based on their specific uses [25]. The platform’s designer acts as the main workspace where you can implement tasks that include:
- Workspace Management
- Sequential activity execution
- Nested sequence support
- Error handling through TryCatch
- Detailed logging system [25]
OpenRPA use cases
Our analysis shows how OpenRPA changes customer service operations. The platform stands out with these exceptional features:
- Email Management and Customer Communication
- Automated email filtering and classification
- AI-powered content analysis
- Immediate response generation
- Thread status management [26]
- Service Request Processing
- Automated ticket creation
- Customer profile management
- Immediate status updates
- Systematic request tracking [26]
OpenRPA’s implementation has led to major operational improvements. The platform handles complex workflows well and keeps data secure through encrypted credentials [26]. It works best when you need:
- Database interaction and query management
- Portal login automation
- Customer information processing
- Automated acknowledgment systems
Companies value OpenRPA because it helps scale operations without adding more staff [26]. Organizations that use OpenRPA see these benefits:
- Much fewer manual data entry errors
- Better customer response times
- More consistent service
- Smarter resource allocation
- Complete analytics that help decision-making
The platform adapts well to businesses of all sizes, from small companies to large enterprises [14]. It combines smoothly with:
- Cloud services
- Database systems
- Email platforms
- Customer relationship management tools
- Enterprise resource planning systems
Our experience shows that OpenRPA’s state support and planning features work well with the OpenFlow orchestrator. This gives you excellent control over automation workflows [14]. You can oversee automated processes carefully while making sure they stay reliable and adaptable.
Teams often worry about technical requirements. OpenRPA balances power and ease of use well. The platform’s low-code environment needs no technical or programming knowledge [27]. This helps companies deploy automation solutions faster and handle complex scenarios easily.
Conclusion
Five open-source RPA tools show impressive capabilities for various technical needs and use cases. Robot Framework stands out with its Python ecosystem, while TagUI provides easy-to-use multi-language support. Robocorp adds enterprise-grade features to the open-source landscape. Taskt keeps things simple with its .NET-based approach, and OpenRPA delivers proven returns through its detailed automation platform. These solutions help businesses automate complex processes without spending much money.
Businesses can pick these tools confidently based on their needs, technical skills, and automation targets. Small businesses often start with TagUI’s user-friendly design, while larger companies can benefit from Robocorp’s flexible architecture. These open-source options match the features of proprietary solutions and offer better flexibility and customization choices. Strong development communities keep improving these tools, which ensures their long-term success in automation projects.
References
[1] – https://github.com/robotframework/robotframework
[2] – https://www.browserstack.com/guide/robot-framework-guide
[3] – https://robotframework.org/robotframework/latest/RobotFrameworkUserGuide.html
[4] – https://blog.botcity.dev/2024/01/26/robot-framework/
[5] – https://quintagroup.com/cms/python/robot-framework
[6] – https://www.simplilearn.com/top-open-source-rpa-frameworks-to-accelerate-automation-article
[7] – https://docs.robotframework.org/docs/gettingstarted/rpa
[8] – https://github.com/aisingapore/TagUI
[9] – https://medium.com/digital-transformation-for-enterprises/open-source-rpa-tagui-part-iv-39f6499858d9
[10] – https://www.signitysolutions.com/blog/open-source-rpa-frameworks
[11] – https://aisingapore.org/aiproducts/tagui/
[12] – https://deepakharish.medium.com/tagui-for-python-application-use-case-4cbbedd8c4dc
[13] – https://venturebeat.com/ai/robocorp-simplifies-open-source-rpa/
[14] – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/rpa-opensource-2024-comparison-robocorp-vs-openrpa-garc%C3%ADa-romero-6hmgf
[15] – https://techifysolutions.com/blog/robocorp-rpa-framework/
[16] – https://www.gartner.com/reviews/market/robotic-process-automation/vendor/robocorp/product/robocorp/alternatives
[17] – https://robocorp.com/resources/case-studies/
[18] – https://robocorp.com/portal/tutorial/browser-and-web-automation
[19] – https://www.gartner.com/reviews/market/robotic-process-automation/vendor/robocorp/product/robocorp
[20] – https://www.reddit.com/r/rpa/comments/16m449n/opensourcepythonoverproprietaryrpa/
[21] – https://ggsitc.com/blog/5-open-source-robotic-process-automation-tools-top-vendors-on-the-market
[22] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNU2wHmrL0M
[23] – https://github.com/saucepleez/taskt
[24] – https://openiap.io/openrpa
[25] – https://docs.openiap.io/docs/openrpa/OpenRPA-UI.html
[26] – https://www.signitysolutions.com/startup-chronicles/automating-service-requests-with-openrpa
[27] – https://docs.openiap.io/docs/openrpa/