Manual vs Automation Testing
Both manual and automated testing has its pros and cons. It’s worth knowing the differences, and when to use either or both for best results.
1. What is Manual Testing?
Manual testing happens when tester executes test cases without using any automation tools. Test cases are planned to cover almost 100% of the application. However, manual testing is not accurate at all times due to human error, hence it is less reliable. It is also time-consuming, takes up human resources.
Manual testing is practical when test cases are run once or twice, and frequent repetition is not required. It also allows for human observation, which may be more useful if your testing goal is to improve usability or user experiences.
2. What is Automation Testing?
Testers write codes and test scripts to execute automation testing. With the appropriate automation tools, testers develop test scripts which runs automatically to compare actual result with the expected results. This helps the tester to determine whether or not an application performs as expected.
Automated testing is more reliable, as it is performed by automation tools and scripts. It is significantly faster than a manual approach but investments are required for a comprehensive testing infrastructure. It is a practical when the test cases are run repeatedly over a long time period but it does not entail human observation.
Generally, many do combine both methods for the best testing outcome, 100% automation is not an ideal target to ensure quality standards.
Below are some situations where both methods are ideally used:
- Initial Testing — Testers have to determine certain combinations at early stages of development, manual tests will eventually be performed throughout. Automation tests can be done consistently after when initial manual tests are done.
- Writing Scripts — Even though all processes are performed automatically, automation requires some manual effort to create initial testing scripts. Only thereafter, testers can develop automation test scripts according to their set of automation tools.
- Failure Analysis — If there are result discrepancies from automation tests, testers will need to perform an analysis to determine the source of failure. Testers will also need to perform manual tests to determine the cause of failures if there are insufficient information.
3. When To Use?
Manual testing is found best suited to the following scenarios:
- Exploratory Testing: This type of testing requires the tester’s knowledge, experience, analytical/logical skills, creativity, and intuition. Human skills is needed to execute the testing process in this scenario.
- Usability Testing: This test is to measure how user-friendly, efficient, or convenient the software is for the end users. Here, human observation is undoubtedly the most important factor, a manual approach is preferable.
- Ad-Hoc Testing: In this scenario, there is no specific approach. It is a totally unplanned method of testing where the understanding and insight of the tester is the only important factor.
Automated testing is the preferred option in the following scenarios:
- Regression Testing: Automated testing is suitable because of the frequent code changes and the ability to run regressions in a timely manner during, before/after an application launch.
- Load Testing: This test helps replicate situations where multiple users access your application simultaneously. This testing method usually identifies the maximum operating capacity of an application. It is more efficient with automation.
- Performance Testing: Testing which requires the simulation of thousands of concurrent users requires automation.
- Repeated Execution: Testing which requires the repeated execution of a task is also best automated.
Keeping these factors in mind, you can find the best approach in any given testing situation and achieve quality output well within your budget and timeline.