A virtual desktop is a computing environment that enables users to remotely access a desktop operating system and its applications. It is used to run automations in a consistent, secure, and scalable environment, especially for unattended deployments that need access to applications within a controlled setting.

The Virtual desktop option available in the Run-time options menu of Automation 360 enables Citizen Developers and Professional Developers to run their automations in Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode without impacting automation creation or development tasks. Virtual desktop in PiP streamlines workflow and boosts productivity as the developers can monitor essential tasks such as running automations, logs, or real-time outputs while they continue to work in the Bot editor.

What is virtual desktop in PiP mode for developers?

A virtual desktop in PiP mode is a user interface feature that allows you to keep a small window (like a video player, log monitor, or task runner) floating on top of your screen while you are working with other applications. The small, resizable window remains accessible without taking up much of your screen space, so you can continue working in your primary window or Bot editor.

How to enable virtual desktop in PIP mode

The Virtual desktop is the default option for running an automation in the PIP mode. There are various ways to enable and use the Virtual desktop while working in the Bot editor:

Benefits

  1. Enhanced multitasking: You can run Task Bots in the background while actively working with Bot editor or debugging.
  2. Reduced context switching: Developers can have an easy access to the relevant information without constantly switching between tools.
  3. Improved productivity: By reducing the need to toggle between tabs or windows, developers can maintain their flow and focus on the task at hand while keeping an eye on critical information.

Considerations

Review the following considerations while running your private automations in virtual desktop:
  • Citizen Developers and Professional Developers can only run their private automations in virtual dekstop.
  • Child automations will inherit the virtual desktop setting from the parent at the runtime, and will run in the same environment (PiP or desktop or runner) as the parent automation.
  • By default, the Run Task Bot > Run now option inherits the Virtual desktop setting from the automation with capability to overwrite it.