Review - Robiquity Blue Prism Bootcamp Training
In my new series of blogs, I will be reviewing automation products, including utilities, tools, books, events, and anything relevant to help subscribers evaluate the automation marketplace.
All reviews are non-biased, open and honest. I am not incentivised for writing lovely comments, and where products are supplied for free, I will state this. All views are my own.
As part of their COVID-19 programme, Robiquity kindly provided complimentary access for NHS staff to their on-line Blue Prism Bootcamp Training. I have been using Blue Prism Cloud (formally Thoughtonomy) for over two years, and with the pandemic lockdown giving me a few spares hours I thought I would try this training course - as they say, every day is a school day, so maybe I would learn something.
The time limited course is hosted entirely online, and an initial two-week window given to complete the training. Limiting access keeps the mind focussed but if you are a complete beginner to automation expect to commit a lot of hours.
Training Environment
The training platform offers full access to a virtual Blue Prism environment which saves all the hassle of accessing via RDP or installing a local copy on your PC. This also means it is entirely transportable, so the study can be done at home or work without losing any progress.
The vast majority of the course is text-based, and the split-screen function is convenient so you can access Blue Prism while reading through learning guide. The platform is responsive, performs well with the minimum of fuss. Training exercises and sample code are preloaded, offering a helpful framework for the study.
Course Content
The first half of the course covers all the basics of automation, which will give the student an excellent framework of knowledge to build upon. Each chapter focuses on a specific aspect of Blue Prism with step-by-step exercises to support learning. Each chapter has a short test at the end to test that you have learned the key points.
At the end of part 1, the student is asked to put together a small project. If you have studied part 1 thoroughly, you will not have a problem but expect to spend a few hours putting it all together. Sadly this project is not assessed, and I feel some expert feedback would be helpful.
The second half of the course is the larger consolidation project. The student is given a range of project documentation (based on the Blue Prism model - PDD ODI etc.) to read and to build the project. My own opinion is this project is potentially a step too far based on the learning in part 1. Slight enhancement to the learning pathway at this point would be beneficial.
Assessment
To pass the course, the student will need to complete the project and have it assessment by the Robiquity Development Team plus pass an on-line exam (similar to the official AD01 Blue Prism exam). This is a helpful preparation and an invaluable learning tool, but you will need to undertake your own research beyond this course to pass it.
Overall
Of the three training courses I have worked through, this is the best one for pure Blue Prism training. The student will gain competency in developing solutions but also be exposed to some best practice standards which will put them in good stead for the future. Don't expect to become an automation guru with this course (or any course in fact) - you need real-world experience to hone these skills, but Robiquity's offering has to be one of the best out there.
My thanks to Tom Gardner and Anthony de Broise of Robiquity for their kindness and generosity.
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