Multi-part answer. Don't shoot the messenger.
Automatic Update requires MAS Launcher to be open, to stay running. The newer Task Scheduler does not and will actually create an entry in the Windows Task Scheduler to run and post a journal/register including the DTR if you want. There are also some scriptable events with it too.
It's also flexible for M/Ds to add Framework reports to it even though you can't add reports to it. For example I've seen (and troubleshot) Mapadoc EDI unattended reports (not journals) run thru Task Scheduler after it auto-created sales orders.
The other way for Framework reports is to use the BOI (I had an example of A/R Aging and I/M Inv Val rpt in my class).
For MRP Reports, you can actually use V/I auto-run style batch file / shortcut where you have the long command line. At the end instead of VIWIxx you put MPWRAA (or whatever it is). Then you schedule that batch file / script directly in the Windows Task Scheduler. However this will only pop open the UI for the report. Now you need Beth's keystroke memorizer to click the Print or Deferred button for you.
Or you can have an M/D type create a version of it for you that would auto-send it to Deferred or a printer. ISM has done something for MRP reports if I remember right.