Pros and Cons of Test Automation.

Let’s begin by defining what test automation is. Test automation involves the creation of scripts or code blocks that, through various libraries and tools, eliminate the need for human observation and replace it with logical validations as needed.

While human observation is eliminated, it does not mean that once these tests are developed, human involvement can be dispensed with. As we will see later in-depth with the advantages and disadvantages, these tests need to be maintained and updated.

One of the clearest examples of test case automation is that of the graphical interface. Since these tests are often repetitive and do not involve very complicated validations, different texts within the interface can be validated, as well as redirections and the functionality of inputs, outputs, and buttons.

Although, like any feature related to a software development project, it must be evaluated within the specifications of the development itself and its particular needs, we will broadly define a series of advantages and disadvantages so that you can then evaluate whether your projects are candidates for test case automation.

Advantages:

1. Agility in Deliveries: Test case automation, if correctly designed, provides the possibility of delivering products to the market in less time and with an acceptable quality coverage, reducing the intervention of personnel.
2. Improved Task Distribution: This effect occurs because automation eliminates the need to execute repetitive tests and optimizes the time of testers to focus on more complex functionalities or those that require a higher testing criterion.
3. Reliability: Assuming that the tests are well-designed, they become much more reliable because there is no percentage of failure that can be attributed to human error. Repetitive tests often fail because they affect the concentration of the tester who executes them.
4. Execution Speed: While manual test execution requires documentation and capturing resulting evidence in extended times, automated tests execute and capture evidence in much shorter times, optimizing some of the more extensive executions, such as regression tests.

Disadvantages:

1. Implementation Costs: One of the main disadvantages lies in the implementation costs of test case automation. Various factors, such as the project’s scale and the technological profiles of the team, must be taken into account for a accurate cost-benefit assessment when implementing this quality control format.
2. Maintenance: As the project progresses and development continues, automated tests that have already been implemented may become obsolete or may need to be modified for proper functioning. This implies a time and resource expense, and it is crucial that this is considered BEFORE deciding to implement this quality control format.

In Conclusion:

In conclusion, the implementation of automated tests must first go through a cost-benefit evaluation process. While they offer a great opportunity to optimize time and resources, the cost of this implementation tends to be medium to high, also considering the resources allocated to code maintenance. Automation appears as a tool, and it will depend entirely on the project whether it is suitable or not.