Software testing is a very large area but to simplify it, it is categorized into two broad headings:
– Manual testing
– Automated testing
Both of these testing methods have been around for a very long time. They have their respective advantages and disadvantages and users must be aware as to which testing method to use and when. Testing is an extremely important step under any software project. Both manual testing and automated testing depend on factors like expertise, budget, etc.
The main objective of testing is to make sure that it is done right. Hence, one must choose the more efficient kind of testing method.
What is Manual Testing?
Manual testing is handled by QA Analysts. It is done manually, as the name suggests. Under manual testing, the analysts make sure to check each feature in the software. They prompt results without the help of any software tools that are used in other testing methods.
Manual testing is an age-old method of testing and has been used over decades by analysts, developers, and engineers. It helps to find bugs in systems without using any advanced methods of testing. It is performed by those who have enough training and experience in this field.
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What is Automation Testing?
Unlike manual testing, automation testing is a much more advanced method of testing. Under this method, analysts use advanced technology to form scripts and come up with codes. Their main aim is to come up with a test result in the least amount of time.
The best thing about automated testing is that it allows developers to perform the test without any interruption from the manual testers. Tasks can be repeated as many times as needed in this process. Even though automated testing is done using advanced testing tools, it does need some manual help for its scripts.
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Manual Testing Over Automated Testing
There are certain areas under software testing where manual testing is the more appropriate form of testing. In explanatory testing, experts of the domain need to perform the tests manually, using their expertise and knowledge. It cannot be done using automated tools.
A lot of tests require experts to manually check whether the application is user-friendly or not. In times like these, manual testing is the more preferred form of testing. Manual testing is used in scenarios where the testing project is in the development stage. It can be used in situations where Adhoc testing needs to be performed and in short-termed projects as well.
Manual testing can be performed when the test case needs to be used just once or twice. It has a more straightforward execution setup.
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Automation testing Over Manual Testing
Automation testing can be performed during:
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Load Testing
Automation testing is the preferred mode during load testing. Load testing is the kind of testing that verifies if a said application can handle multiple conditions and transactions on it. It verifies if the application is capable of handling normal work as well as loaded work. Automation testing is said to be the best method to go about doing load testing on an application.
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Performance
Performance testing is a test that is done to check whether an application’s speed and scalability are at par. It checks whether the utilization level of an application is high and it is concerned mainly with the response time of an application. Automation testing is the best way to go about doing a performance test.
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Repeated Execution
Testing that requires execution repeatedly is best suited for automation testing.
Pros and Cons of Manual Testing
Pros:
– Manual testing provides faster feedback than automation testing
– It is not as expensive as automation testing. It is reasonable and fits your pocket.
– It is performed by expert analysts who use their knowledge and skill.
Cons
– Not very reliable as it is conducted by humans and mistakes are more likely to take place.
– Time-consuming since advanced technologies are not used.
– It is not reusable.
Pros and Cons Of Automated Testing
Pros:
– It is not time-consuming, it is quick and efficient and provides reports at the earliest.
– It supports more than one application which is beneficial for the user.
– Since software tools are used, they can be used for a long period and it does not get tired as humans would get.
– High level of productivity for better and accurate results of the test.
– Bug detection is quicker and more accurate as compared to manual testing.
Cons
– The expertise and knowledge of a human are missing and the lack of human touch can cause difficulty in getting insight on small matters like fonts and sizes.
– This testing method is not full proof. It has its limitations.
– The maintenance is a big issue. It is costlier than manual testing hence not making it so user-friendly.
– Debugging is a major issue in automated testing.
Manual testing has a more direct and simpler approach than automated testing, in which software tools are used. The developer can see what fits his project and use the required testing method accordingly. Both have their pros and cons which should be looked into properly. They are both age-old testing methods, one has a more forward approach than the other, but both can be used differently, for different kinds of the project testing.
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