| User-interface automation |
Works through the same screens a person uses — clicks, forms, and file dialogs. |
Not applicable. Runs behind the interface with no visible interaction. |
| Direct system-to-system integration |
Indirect. Data is moved by driving the interface of each system. |
Direct. Systems exchange data programmatically and consistently. |
| Compatibility with legacy applications |
Strong. Older tools and private portals can be automated without vendor changes. |
Limited. Only possible when the system exposes a usable API or database access. |
| Typical use cases |
Invoice entry, portal submissions, back-office updates, report downloads, screen-based transfers. |
Payments, CRM sync, inventory feeds, notifications, and structured data exchange. |
| Reliability and maintainability |
Sensitive to interface changes, so workflows are logged, validated, and reviewed regularly. |
Stable and versioned, and usually the first choice when an API is available. |