Introduction
The Utopian Dream of Complete Automation Imagine a world where your testing system is entirely automated. Every update triggers a comprehensive report, ensuring that no bug slips through unnoticed. While this might sound perfect, the reality is far from it. The quest for 100% automated coverage is not just unachievable; it’s potentially detrimental.
The Human Element: Why Unpredictability Matters
Humans are inherently unpredictable, and so are the ways they interact with applications. This unpredictability is particularly evident during UI testing with frameworks like Selenium or Appium. Attempting to automate every possible scenario leads to complex, fragile, and ultimately unsustainable code.
Embrace the Balance: The Power of Manual and Automated Tests Together
Integrating both manual and automated testing is crucial. Automation excels in areas like Regression Tests, Smoke Tests, and Performance Tests—routine, predictable tasks that machines handle well. This allows human testers to engage in more complex, creative testing scenarios, boosting productivity and focus.
Strategic Automation: Choosing What to Automate
Not everything should be automated. The key is to identify tests that offer the most value when automated, such as Smoke and Regression Tests. These tests provide stability and quick feedback, allowing QA teams to allocate more resources to explore and test new features thoroughly.
The Limitations of Automation: What Automated Tests Can’t Do
Automated tests are excellent for ongoing validation but fall short when it comes to new features. Initial tests of new features require a human touch to explore various aspects and ensure comprehensive coverage before they can be included in automated Regression Tests.
Simplify, Organize and Enhance
Rather than striving for complete automation, focus on a balanced, meaningful approach that leverages the best of both manual and automated testing. This strategy not only maintains system integrity but also enhances the overall quality and efficiency of the testing process.
