Pros and Cons of Automated and Manual Testing
Software testing is a vital process in the application development realm. The sole aim of conducting performance testing on software is to determine if the final product matches all expected parameters set. The method of software testing involves system components and tools that evaluate the properties of software.
In simple terms, the key purpose of testing is to find the loopholes in the functionality of the software, rectify, and fix them. Software testing is performed using different methods depending on specific objectives and strategies. Although there are several types of testing methods, the prominent ones are:
- Automated testing
- Manual testing
QA engineers, worldwide, implement these methods to find and fix all bugs that may deter the user experience. But which is a better method? Automation testing or manual testing?
In this blog, we’ll learn why software testing is important, the disadvantages of automation testing over manual testing and vice versa, and which method is a better option for you. Let’s go!
The Importance of Software Testing
The phase of testing is vital and it cannot be overlooked. It helps to figure out the loopholes, like bugs, that hamper the performance or user interface of an application. When adequate software testing is performed, its chances of being a successful project increase when it enters the market.
Let’s proceed and take a closer look at automation and manual testing.
Automation Testing
Not so long ago, people used to fumble to prepare a cup of coffee in the morning. With the invention of automated coffee makers (available in extensive ranges), prepping up morning coffee has been simplified. The same has become an option for software testing.
As the name suggests, automated testing is the form of testing conducted using automation tools for validating the software. This kind of testing entirely relies on a pre-scripted test that runs automatically to match the outcomes with expected results. If the results are aligned, your product is likely to be bug-free.
Through the automation testing method, one can easily execute regression testing without involving a manual tester. Although the entire process is performed automatically, some manual efforts are required for initiating test scripts.
Source: Scientecheasy
Automation Testing - The First Preference?
Before proceeding, here’s a look at some statistics related to automation testing. Many small to medium-scale businesses went digital back in 2020 during the pandemic. This helped them improve productivity and profits even during uncertainty.
As per a survey conducted by Zapier in 2021, it was found that 63% of businesses benefited after automation was included in the business.
Furthermore, the following stats tell about the competitive advantages that businesses got after including automation.
- 34% of businesses added that automation reduces human errors in the work
- 88% of businesses were able to compete with large scale companies/brand
Advantages of Automation Testing
Today, more and more businesses are absorbing automated testing because of different advantages. Here’s a quick look at the prominent advantages of automation testing.
Managing time-consuming tasks
Testing stages are usually time-consuming, and to save time QA engineers test the app to check its smooth performance. By running automated regression tests, finding new bugs gets simplified.
Since Android and iOS apps are frequently updated, some features lose their performance. Hence, testing needs to be performed on such cases.
But wouldn’t that be repetitive? To keep the practice at bay, QA engineers create algorithms that run tests automatically while new features can be tested without interruption.
Eliminating human error
Automated tests run through scripts and tools. Owing to the accuracy of the script and tools, the chances of error are eliminated as tools rarely miss a bug. Moreover, increased accuracy saves time!
In case there’s a mistake in the code, the individual will instantly know because the test will fail. Automation testing is advantageous because there’s nothing like “It seems to work as expected.” It would either result as ‘Working’ or ‘Fail’.
Load and performance testing
There are some tests that are tested using automation type of testing. This is a certain condition where multiple users use the app and simultaneously the changes are being tested. Video conferencing apps or streaming software cannot be tested manually, hence, an automated script is required.
Using automation testing, assessing the load and performance of the app in different test scenarios is simplified. However, conducting these tests isn’t vital for every app that has been developed.
Automation Testing Shortcomings
Learning about the cons of automation testing is vital. Here are some highlighted shortcomings of automation testing.
Complex codes
Automation testing, unarguably, simplifies the work but writing them is not as easy as it sounds! The QA must have some super code writing skills and a strong understanding of one programming language. Python, Java, and C# are the popular languages for QA engineers to learn.
Cannot fix everything
Automation testing cannot fix every glitch- this is one of the disadvantages of automation testing over manual testing. To check/test if the app is user-friendly, the QA needs to run manual testing. In such test cases, the feedback is acquired from the users using the app.
Automation Testing - Where to Implement the Automation
The following examples explain where automation testing should be performed.
Smoke testing
It is a standardized module whose key purpose is to check the functionality.
Regression testing
Through regression testing, QA can retest the functionality of the app/software after a new update. The key purpose of regression testing is to figure out existing flaws or conflicts.
Load testing
Load testing is a form of software testing that tests the performance of an app by simulating heavy load. If the app crashes, the loophole is detected and the glitch is fixed.
Stress testing
Stress testing, in the simplest words, means checking the breaking point of the application. Maximum load is given on the app to determine the load-bearing capacity.
Manual Testing
Manual testing is the form of testing where a quality analyst (QA) runs a test on an application. Different test cases and test scenarios are determined to check the appropriate functionality of the application.
Although it is primitive in comparison to its counterpart method, manual testing is vital. There are several functionalities that cannot be tested automatically. Mobile devices and wearables require apt field testing. That’s a key reason why mobile applications undergo monkey testing to detect congestion.
Source: Cleveroad
Through manual testing, figuring out solutions by considering different test cases becomes simplified. All test cases are tested manually by QA engineers for figuring out the permanent solution.
Why Is Manual Testing Necessary?
In this era where automation testing is regarded as superior, many industry experts emphasize the vitality of manual testing. To run automated testing, it is essential for the QA to script the code and test it manually.
Listed below are the reasons why manual testing is still preferred over automation for the long run.
Manual Testing Benefits
There are pros and cons to manual testing. Let’s begin with the benefits of manual testing.
Source: Pinterest
Easy to use
Manual testing is often referred to as an entryway to software development. This term has been coined because one can gain knowledge as he/she advances in the industry. Since no access code or knowledge of coding is required, companies often hire manual QA testers instead of manual testers.
Simplifies complex testing
Through manual testing, QA engineers can easily test complex tasks like the integration and functionality of a feature in the app. The reason behind it is saving time and money. Choosing manual over automation testing always helps in saving time and money.
Vital for certain tasks
Manual testing is essential for usability testing, interface design, and UX of an application. Such tests require human feedback which can be simulated only through manual testing. Ad-hoc testing is an example that fits right.
Ad-hoc testing is a type of manual testing where tests are performed spontaneously. It helps in detecting unexpected flaws in the app.
Manual Testing Shortcomings
Just like automation testing, manual testing also has its cons. Here are some cons of choosing manual testing over automation.
Slower than automation testing
Manual testing is a time-consuming procedure. Human resources often take several hours, and sometimes days, to complete. The process becomes tedious with repetitive testing. On the other hand, automation testing helps in finishing the work in minutes.
Prone to errors
To err is human is a saying that fits in the frame when we talk about manual testing. As compared to test automation, the test results of a manually-tested app can be errorful. As mentioned in the previous point, repetitive testing can make the QA miss some details.
Manual testing can be expensive
Relying solely on manual testing can be expensive. If a company relies on manual QA testing on a bigger project for the long run, ultimately the costs will shoot up. Hence, one should be considerate while choosing between manual and automation testing.
Manual Testing- Implementing them Coreectly
Below are tests that are run manually.
Exploratory testing
Exploratory testing is the initial stage of testing new features. Automating this test is impossible because the functionality involved in it is new and no test cases are there.
Ad-hoc testing
Ad-hoc testing is done for detecting unexpected bugs.
Usability testing
Checking the user experience and interface requires human observation. It is usually done through usability testing.
Integration testing
Integration testing or system testing is done to ensure the functionality of collective operations.
Manual Testing vs Automation Testing - The Verdict
Software testing is an extensively varied procedure. Factors like what’s being tested, at which stage it’s being tested, and the purpose of testing affect the choice between automated vs manual testing.
Despite several testing tools and options, relying on a single testing choice isn’t a wise decision. After comparing automation and manual testing, we can assert that there are pros and cons of test automation and manual testing.
No matter how great automation testing is, you cannot automate every process. In such cases, manual testing comes handy and helps in figuring out different test scenarios which cannot be automated.