Manual testing
Manual testing is the practice of writing and executing test cases manually. Manual testers play the role of an end-user to test if applications function as expected.
Automated testing
Automated testing is the practice of using a test automation tool to automate repetitive tasks that don't require manual intervention. Automated testing complements manual testing.
Major differences between manual and automated testing
Manual and automated testing have their own advantages and disadvantages. Striking the right balance between the two is key to an efficient software testing lifecycle.
How is automated testing more advantageous than manual testing?
Test coverage
A wide range of tests are required to bug-proof software, before and after it hits the market. Certain tests—like regression, performance, and security—need to be validated using a test automation tool to ensure reliability.
Speed
Writing and executing test cases manually requires a lot of effort. Automation helps achieve faster time to market by automating repetitive tests that don't need human intervention, improving speed and efficiency.
Efficiency
In a traditional setup, testing is done after development. Every minute change in the codebase demands an entire round of testing. Non-linear testing helps keep up with Agile development. This reduces resource costs and fixes bugs earlier in the development phase.
Cost optimization
In manual testing, technical requirements are scrutinized, test scenarios are identified, and test cases are written and executed manually. Repetitive tests can be automated to reduce resource costs. Additionally, defect costs can also be reduced due to the high rate of accuracy.
Picking the right tests to automate
Picking the right tests to automate is crucial to setting up an effective test automation practice. Some of the characteristics that help determine which tests to automate are:
Highly repetitive
Certain tests are highly repetitive and need to be run on multiple configurations. Automating them will improve efficiency.
Time-consuming
Automation proves to be cost effective for tests that are voluminous, non-linear, have multiple data sets, and incur high resource costs.
Low risk factor
Tests that have a low probability for risk should be automated.
Tests prone to human error
Human error can be avoided by automating high-priority tests.
Involves significant downtime
Certain tests have a significant downtime between steps and need to be automated to save time.
Stable tests
Tests that are unlikely to change can be automated.
Challenges in automated testing
The visual appeal and usability of software needs to be tested manually. In some cases, automated testing can incur huge costs for adoption and test management.
Where is manual testing more advantageous than automated testing?
Complex tests
An experienced tester is required to closely monitor complex high-risk tests.
User experience
Manual testing is necessary to gauge how a user perceives software.
Flexibility
Tests that depend on a subject matter expert's knowledge, judgement, and experience in identifying defects and suggesting fixes require manual testing.
Ad-hoc tests
Tests that are not repetitive or need to be run immediately, on an ad-hoc basis, aren't suitable to being automated.
Can automation testing replace manual testing?
Automated testing is not a replacement for manual testing, but a complement to it. It's important for testing teams to strike the right balance between manual testing and automated testing to leverage the advantages of both.
