Can Automation Testing replace Manual Testing? Which is Better?

Manual testing is where manual testers will be involved to execute test scripts in a step-by-step manner. In a test automation scenario, specific automation tools and frameworks are used to execute test scripts. The working of a manual tester cannot be compared with a machine and vice versa. Hence in certain specific testing activities, automation testing may not be able to work and the intervention of manual testing might be required. 

Following are three key reasons that depict the significance of automation testing:

1. In-depth testing: There are different testing approaches used by testers with different focus areas as per their level of expertise and exposure. But, with the inclusion of test automation, all areas of testing are equally focused upon. This in turn assures that the product has the best quality with a focus on every aspect of the product. Automation testing follows a meticulous approach towards testing, due to which there are no errors or minimal errors in the product that has been tested.

2. Enhanced test coverage: Proper allotment is provided to many tests pertaining to the application. This in turn leads to higher test coverage and software anomalies are also significantly reduced. This will also help in testing complex applications along with more features.

3. Easily reusable: Test automation is considered to be repetitive because of its test automation cases. The setup configuration is easy and upon that the software developers are given the opportunity to evaluate the program’s reaction. Automated test cases are completely reusable and hence any aspect of the code can be properly tested.

 

Following are three key reasons that depict the significance of manual testing:

1. Short-term projects with budgetary constraints: There is a lot of planning and investment required to set up a test automation platform.  For a short-term project, the upfront price of automation is considerably high because of which ROI cannot be truly justified. For this very purpose, manual testing is considered to be a viable and cheaper option and can prove to be beneficial by improving the bottom line.

2. Assessing the usability factor: Any application should be developed keeping the ‘usability’ factor in perspective, as it enhances the overall credibility of the application. When it comes to automated tests, they do not have original thoughts, which mean they are programmed in a specific way and thus they are able to carry out their testing activities flawlessly. But, the human emotion or feeling is missing, which in turn is considered to be the main component of usability. For this specific reason, manual testers are given due importance. Human perceptions are required for both exploratory and usability testing.

3. The value of flexibility: Although test automation provides accurate results, manual testing on the contrary provides more flexibility to manual testers when it comes to carrying out the testing activities. With manual testing, test activities can be carried out quickly and thus witness the results. Automated tests take a considerable amount of time to setup.

Following are a few key differences between manual testing and automation testing that will help you clearly understand the efficacy of these two testing methods:

Manual testing	Automation testing
The initial setup costs are low, but, the ROI may get affected in the long run	The initial setup costs are high, but, eventually, the ROI gets better in the long run
It consumes a decent amount of time for testing	Testing is carried out at a faster pace
Exploratory testing can be performed	Exploratory testing cannot be performed
If there is a minor change in the UI, the testing method does not get affected	A minor change in the UI needs to be modified
Human resources are required	Automation tools are required
Test reports are generally recorded in excel	Test  results are recorded in the automation system and the user can check the results as and when required
Batch testing is not possible	Multiple test scripts can be batched and tested

 

Strategic analysis of manual and automation testing:

From the above mentioned information, it’s almost quite clear that both manual testing and automation testing play a pivotal role. When it comes to speed, accuracy and efficiency, there is no doubt that test automation is the right testing method. But, still, it depends upon the project scope, technological feasibility, manpower and other key testing resources based on which the client can take the decision. 

Conclusion: If you are looking forward to implementing software testing for your specific project, then do get connected with an expert software testing services company that will provide you with in-depth and appropriate advice along with a tactical testing plan of action that is in line with your project specific requirements.