Here's how you can effectively convey your logical reasoning to stakeholders in process automation.

To effectively convey your logical reasoning to stakeholders in process automation, consider the following steps: Understand your audience: Get a clear understanding of your stakeholders' background, expertise, and level of familiarity with process automation. This will help you tailor your communication to their specific needs and knowledge level. Clearly define the problem and objective: Start by clearly defining the problem you are addressing and the objective you are trying to achieve through process automation. This will help stakeholders understand the purpose and relevance of your logical reasoning.

There is this concept in sales that we can apply here too. Consider yourself a problem finder and not a problem solver. You know you can create almost any automation needed. You know the solutions you develop bring value. So forget about yourself and start looking at what problems do your stakeholders have. Not just the inmediate problem, but the consequences of it, and the consequences of not doing anything about it. Help them understand that the problem is more than just the headline they have in mind.

Use visuals and examples: Visual aids such as charts, diagrams, or process flowcharts can help stakeholders grasp complex concepts more easily. Additionally, providing real-life examples or success stories of process automation implementations can illustrate the benefits and outcomes more effectively.

In sales there is this concept called the gap. Basically you need to show them the distance between the current scenario and the future dream state. For that examples, stories, pictures, anything goes. The important part is for them to undersatnd that they are far away from what they need and want to be and that automation is the solution to that distance.

Use data and evidence: Support your logical reasoning with relevant data, facts, and evidence. This could include performance metrics, historical data, case studies, or industry benchmarks. Data-driven arguments are more persuasive and help stakeholders see the value in your reasoning. Present a step-by-step approach: Break down your logical reasoning into a step-by-step approach, outlining the key stages and milestones involved in process automation. This will help stakeholders follow your thought process and understand the overall strategy.

Jargon should be out in any conversation with none technical people. On the other hand we should bring more business concepts into the conversation. Start by talking the business impacts, then move to the future state after the automation. Only if they asks for details on the automation, only then you can provide data, examples and even drop some technical words. But remember you are here to help them and not to pump your ego on how much you know.

Anticipate and address potential concerns: Identify any potential concerns or objections that stakeholders might have and proactively address them. This could include addressing risks, mitigations, costs, or implementation challenges. Showing that you have considered these factors will help build trust and credibility. Engage in open dialogue: Encourage stakeholders to ask questions and provide feedback. Actively listen to their concerns, ideas, and suggestions. This will foster a collaborative environment and ensure that everyone's input is considered in the decision-making process.

Expect a no, always. With that in mind, you should know everything that may concern them upfront, specially when it comes to costs, timelines, effort and so on. You need to make sure that they understand distance between where they are and where they want to be. Then the objections and concerns they might have can be managed proactively. If you show you know your stuff, you adress their concerns upfront, and showcase you as the best solution, you should have little to no problems to move forward.

ROI can be very tricky to calculate, but there are some simple ideas to have in mind. First, the actual saving in terms of FTEs, materials or other inputs. Second, the increase in productivity of the process itself. Third, the new opportunities that open with that time gained. In business there is more than just ROI in dollars, you have status, ease of use, missed opportunities. Look to include as many as posible in you analysis.

Communicate in a clear and concise manner: Avoid jargon or technical language that might confuse or alienate stakeholders. Use plain language and explain concepts in a way that is easily understandable to a non-technical audience. Keep your communication concise and to the point. Remember, effective communication is a two-way process. Be open to feedback and adjust your logical reasoning accordingly. Building a shared understanding with stakeholders will increase their confidence in your approach to process automation.