Following are the five core benefits of automation testing:
1. The feedback loop becomes faster: Test case execution is accelerated by test automation frameworks such as Cypress and Selenium. Machines work at a faster pace, which is in turn useful for repetitive tests like regression and integration testing. With quicker results and faster tests, feedback can be obtained frequently by teams, which, in turn, helps in improving functionality and detecting issues.
2. Resources are better allocated: As repetitive and mundane testing tasks are effectively carried out by automation testing, QA testers can focus on other specific testing activities that require manual intervention. For example, they can spend more time running those tests that cannot be automated (ad-hoc tests, exploratory tests, usability tests etc.,), deciding upon advanced testing metrics, formulating new test cases etc.
3. The cost factor: Though the initial costs of setting up an automation facility is quite expensive, however, in the long run, it can yield better ROI. As per a research report, in a specific test scenario, the platform of automation testing was able to reduce the cost of test hours from $78 to $18 (appr.). Upon that manual testing fares badly when it comes to testing repetitive tasks. New features may be added when the software expands and hence the pressure will mount on manual testers.
4. Enhanced scalability: The accuracy, range and speed of an automation framework is way better than the professional and experienced QA teams combined. For example, the activity of a thousand visitors to a site can be simulated by the automation platform for the purpose of conducting load testing. Automation testing is also needed when cross-browser testing needs to be performed on multiple browsers and operating systems.
5. Enhanced test coverage: A larger number of test cases are executed by the automation platform. Maximum coverage of features and requirements is ensured in every test cycle. The likelihood of identifying bugs is increased by wider test coverage.
