Do-nothing scripting: the key to gradual automation (blog.danslimmon.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the concept of 'do-nothing scripting' as a way to gradually automate manual procedures. This approach involves creating a script that outlines each step of a process, but does not actually perform any actions, instead prompting the user to complete each step manually. The script serves as a checklist, helping to ensure that all steps are completed in the correct order. Over time, individual steps can be replaced with automated code, allowing for gradual automation of the process.

Main themes

• gradual automation
• manual procedures
• scripting
• process optimization
• checklists
• incremental improvement

What commenters say

• Do-nothing scripting is a useful approach for automating manual procedures by providing a clear outline of the steps involved and allowing for incremental automation.
• Using scripts as checklists can help reduce errors and improve efficiency, even if the scripts do not actually perform any actions.
• Some argue that trying to automate an existing human process directly can be a mistake, as human processes often rely on adaptability and common sense.
• Others suggest that automation should be done in a 'clean' environment, with clear boundaries and control, to avoid complications and edge cases.
• The use of do-nothing scripts can be seen as a way to document a manual process, but it may not be the most effective or efficient way to do so, especially in large teams or complex environments.
• Do-nothing scripts can provide benefits such as reducing mental load and improving context, but may also have limitations, such as requiring plaintext and potentially being difficult to maintain.
• There is a trade-off between the benefits of automation and the potential drawbacks of introducing complexity and rigidity into a process.
• Some argue that do-nothing scripts are not a suitable replacement for proper documentation and knowledge management, and that a single source of truth is preferable to scattered information.