What are software systems called that work automatically without human intervention, often in robotic process automation?

The term referred to in the question is "unattended bots." These software systems are designed to operate autonomously, performing tasks and processes without any need for human intervention. This characteristic allows them to manage repetitive processes efficiently, often executing tasks overnight or during off-hours when human oversight is unnecessary.

Unattended bots are typically utilized in environments where processes can be standardized and automated, such as data entry, report generation, and other routine functions. By functioning independently, these bots can help organizations streamline operations, reduce errors, and increase productivity by maintaining continuous operations.

In contrast, other types of bots may require some level of human interaction or oversight. Guided bots, for instance, assist users through a process by providing prompts and instructions, which necessitates human engagement. Attended bots assist humans in completing tasks but still depend on human involvement at various stages. Process managers, while they facilitate and optimize workflows, do not inherently imply the same level of automation as unattended bots. Therefore, the role of unattended bots in automating processes establishes their distinctiveness in robotic process automation scenarios.