As a software engineer, it is likely that you are familiar with the idea of test automation. For many, automation is something they are sceptical of, especially those that have only ever worked in a manual testing environment. However, test automation is easily the best way to improve efficiency, effectiveness and ensure total coverage of your software testing.When you are relying solely on manual software testing, you are relying on a human going through the various software screens, inputting combinations and trying different usage. These results and observations are manually recorded and are not only time consuming but leave room for error.Automated testing, on the other hand, can use predefined actions to test software quickly and repeatedly with a range of parameters. Results are automatically reported as either a success or a failure, and retesting can be done immediately if required.Test automation opens up a world of opportunities and tasks that are impossible with manual testing methods. This has led to test automation being a critical component for large scale developments, but it is also becoming increasingly popular among smaller organisations. There are many reasons why software engineers are turning to test automation for all their software testing needs. Here are just seven of the many advantages of test automation.
1. Increase Test Coverage
The scope and depth of software tests can be increased through test automation. When you are relying solely on manual testing, lengthy and complicated tests are often avoided, however with test automation, these can be left to run unattended.It is possible to run multiple tests across multiple computers at the same time so that different configurations can all be tested simultaneously. This gives the ability to execute thousands of complex tests at the same time, offering test coverage that will never be possible with manual software testing.
2. Save Time And Money
Every time you make a change to source codes, you should be repeating all software tests to ensure quality. Each development cycle is likely to need testing on all supported hardware configurations and operating systems. When you need to manually repeat these tests every time, it is time-consuming and becomes costly.Test automation can save time and money, as once the tests have been created, they can be run time and time again. Rerunning these automated tests is much faster than manual testing and incur no additional costs. By implementing test automation for your projects, you could reduce testing phases from days to hours.
3. Test High Traffic
As a software engineer, you often expect your development to be used by thousands of users at once, if not more. When it comes to manual testing, even the largest companies can’t run a controlled test with high user traffic. This means that you have no way of knowing how your application will hold up to a vast number of users until it happens in a live environment. Test automation is able to simulate tens of thousands of users all interacting at once.
4. Improve Accuracy
Manual testing is always going to be at risk of mistakes, and even the most conscientious tester can make errors during monotonous testing processes. With test automation, there is no room for this human error as every time the exact same steps will be taken precisely. All results are automatically recorded with exact accuracy, which is often not the case with manual tests.By utilising test automation, software testers can focus on created new automated tests and complex features, as opposed to repeating repetitive manual tests that lack accuracy.
5. Early Glitch Detection
When using manual testing, it can take time for glitches and errors to be identified. Automated software testing is able to detect any defects within the software quickly and present them to the testing team. The earlier an error is identified, the easier and more cost-effective it is to find the solution and make the required changes.
6. Enhance Motivation And Morale
The job of a software tester is often mundane when manual testing is used. Manually testing software is repetitive, exasperating and prone to errors. By regularly repeating the same manual tests with only slight changes in developments, it is very time-consuming and laborious.Introducing test automation can alleviate the tester’s frustration by eliminating the need for repetitive low-level tests. Software testers will have more time to focus on more rewarding and challenging tasks such as exploratory testing and risk analysis. This can have a really positive effect on overall team morale and motivation, which in turn can improve developments and the final product.
7. Reduce Support Costs
When you release software that has missed defects, escaped bugs and generally poor performance, you are going to end up with high support costs. Your support teams will have a lot of their time and effort taken up with handling end-user issues as opposed to focusing on their testing tasks. This can impact your overall support costs as well as dampen your reputation.Test automation is effective for keeping these support costs down, as all new developments can be thoroughly tested before release.
Software Tester Training
Increasing your knowledge of software test automation couldn’t be easier with
TSG Training courses. We offer beginner, intermediate and advanced courses for test automation, so no matter your current level, you can improve your skills.If you are new to test automation, we recommend our one-day
introduction course which covers all the basics. It is designed for test practitioners who want to improve their testing knowledge and learn about automation tools and techniques.For those already involved in the software testing process but looking to demonstrate practical knowledge our
Accelerated Learning ISTQB Foundation in Software Testing & ISTQB Test Automation Engineer course is ideal.All our accelerated learning courses are intense learning experiences which are designed to help you gain certifications in the shortest possible timeframe.For a more advanced look into test automation, we offer a
ISTQB Model-Based Testing & ISTQB Advanced Test Automation Engineer Course Bundle. This is a five-day course with examinations for qualifications. It is a more practical and hands-on look at test automation with lots of exercises to try for yourself.If you want to find out more about advanced training, we recommend our FREE
ISTQB Advanced Test Automation Engineer Webinar Recording. This is an excellent way to find out more about the course and whether it is right for you.No matter your current test automation knowledge, we have a training course to help demonstrate your current knowledge, enhance your skills and gain relevant qualifications. Call
08000 199337 for free, to discuss your training requirements, and we’ll find the ideal course for your needs.
