ROI Framework
How to Estimate What Automation Could Save You
Use this simple ZAR-first framework to estimate operational and financial upside before you apply.
7 min read
Step 1: quantify manual effort
Estimate current time spent each week on the workflow by all team members involved.
Multiply total weekly hours by a loaded hourly cost to calculate current monthly spend.
- Monthly manual cost = weekly hours x hourly cost x 4.33
- Use realistic team costs, not idealized estimates
Step 2: add leakage and delay impact
Time savings are only one part of value. Add the cost of missed follow-ups, delayed quotes, and rework from process errors.
Even conservative assumptions usually expose meaningful value at stake.
- Missed lead value per month
- Delayed quote conversion loss
- Rework hours from incomplete handoffs
Step 3: estimate first-phase impact
For a first automation, use a conservative effectiveness range. This gives a realistic view of upside without overselling.
Document assumptions so your team can validate outcomes after deployment.
- Conservative impact model: 20-40% process improvement
- Track baseline and post-launch values in the portal
- Review outcomes monthly and iterate