What is automation testing and why is it used?

Manual testing and automation testing are the two most important types of software testing. While manual testing requires human intervention, there is less or no human intervention in automation testing, simply because the tests are automated. Further, automation tools play a pivotal role in scaling up the productivity of test automation activities and ensuring viable test outcomes. In this article, you will get to know about the importance of automation testing.

What is automation testing?

It is a process where software is validated to know whether it is functioning as per the expected testing requirements. It is also called as “test automation.” Automated testing tools are used to execute the software for ascertaining the outcomes and comparing the results with earlier test runs.

The manual efforts are simplified to a great extent by applying test automation. It can run repeatedly at any time of the day. This type of approach also suits continuous integration (CI) and continuous delivery (CD) software development practices. Testing efforts are reduced and capabilities are delivered faster and better quality software is developed.

Following are four key factors that justify the use of automation testing in organizations:

1. The time factor: Though the initial setup for automation testing is a bit time-consuming, but once the setup is fully completed, then after it becomes easy to implement. In fact, once the tests have been automated, they can also be reused. Automated tests execute at a rapid pace with less errors and with the least amount of human intervention.

When the code base is constantly being changed, a tester can execute the tests automatically on each commit. You don’t have to do manual testing on a continuous basis for executing each test, instead, it is done automatically.

2. Continuous Integration (CI) and DevOps can be leveraged: DevOps and continuous integration are closely interlinked with automated testing. These two platforms also relate with the philosophy of “fail fast, fail early.” Every commit to the code base is automatically tested and the results are reported to the developers. Fixing any of the tests that might have broken the build is prioritized by developers and also the mainline code is thoroughly verified to know whether it is working as expected.

3. Quality metrics are strategically measured: The tools and extensions that come with automated testing provide important features so that a number of code quality metrics can be measured such as technical debt, code semantics check, code coverage etc. When the tests are executed, usually these measurements take place as a part of a continuous integration setup or a DevOps workflow.

4. Provides accurate and reliable results: Test automation is performed to ensure that all the tests are executed with precision. Those specific members looking out for results can expect in the least possible amount of time. Coming to the reliability aspect, the same tests can be re-executed on different servers.

Benefits of test automation:

• Test results are more accurate
• Reporting capabilities are streamlined
• Test coverage is scaled up
• Resource efficiency is improved
• Bug detection activity becomes more effective
• The reusability factor is enhanced

Conclusion: The above mentioned four factors justify as to why automation testing must be used in organizations. Test automation has already proved to be a game-changer for many organizations worldwide, through its framework and strategic approach. If you are looking forward to implementing test automation activity for your specific project needs, then just visit online one of the leading software testing services company that will provide you a viable strategy that works for your project specific needs.

About the author: I am a technical content writer focused on writing technology specific articles. I strive to provide well-researched information on the leading market savvy technologies.