Software Testing Automation vs Manual Testing

Software product development processes are complex due to the large amount of data enabling their operation. These are developed by DevOps experts who, while having experience or expertise in the area, are not exempt from erros.

This leads to one of the central functions of those who comprise the DevOps teams: the detection of failures in software systems.

Therefore, one role of software engineers is the improvement of products through the application of software tests, also known as software testing.

Technological evolution is advancing ever faster, forcing the creation of software products in shorter times. At the same time, the delivery of results is marked by the customers' needs and the current trends in the different industries.

Errors are inevitable, but improving and optimizing software systems is a challenge that relies on technology to meet the market demands.

Currently, companies rely on software testing automation or manual testing for the validation of software products. Both contribute to the systems' improvement but have characteristics and benefits that must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

What are the advantages of automated testing over manual testing?

A study by Tricentis found that 38 percent of respondents delay the release of new software products due to testing. Only 4 percent of participants responded that they had no problem with deliveries, given that each company has in-house capabilities to meet demands.

This finding is worrisome, as it means that organizations are not yet prepared or have sufficient tools to meet the demands of their niche markets.

Hence, the importance of distinguishing the different test types for their application in business models.

Automated Testing

Software test automation is a method used to detect system failures using a specialized set of programmed data. As its name indicates, its operation is automatic, so it does not depend on human intervention for its execution.

The following are the advantages of this type of test:

Resource efficiency

By not relying on human labor, automated testing is less prone to errors, which has an impact on the company's investment of time and money.

Computer systems can detect and process large amounts of information that people could overlook when faced with data saturation or repetition.

Increased productivity

Automated testing accelerates the processes involved in the delivery of software products, so that the other areas of the company can operate without affecting the stipulated times.

Continuous repeat

An automated test can be run repeatedly, which ensures the quality of the software in its different stages. These can be scheduled at any time, allowing developers to take over other tasks.

Accuracy in results attainment

After a diagnosis, automated tests generate a report that allows you to keep track of the information analyzed. This information is useful for the analysis and correction of faults detected in the system.

Manual testing

Unlike automated testing, manual testing requires people for proper operation, who require the necessary knowledge to interact with software equipment.

Approach to customer experience

By relying on human intervention, a manual test allows knowing through the tester the final experience that the user will have with the product. This may favor the final stages of development before release to the customer.

Lower investment

Test automation is often costly due to the complexity of the programs that comprise it. In some cases, the tests to be applied are basic and quickly executed, for which investing in automated resources can be counterproductive.

What is the best option for my company?

Before making the decision between automated or manual testing, it is essential to consider the budget allocated for this purpose, in addition to the time required for its application. Based on this, you can decide which is the best option.

Software testing automation is a resource increasingly used by organizations' IT areas, characterized by the speed for validation of computer products; however, the decision must be based on the planning done during the initial stage of the software lifecycle.

More options are becoming available, but the choice of innovations to implement depends on the objectives of your company. Sometimes, combining them to take advantage of the benefits that each option offers could favor the testing processes.

At Testing IT, we have the staff and experience in software testing to guide the DevOps practices in your organization. Contact us and learn about the solutions tailored to your business model.