Explaining about what is automation testing and what is not.

1. Automation
What is Automation?
Automated software testing is a process in which software tools execute pre-
scripted tests on a software application
A safety net - which ensures important functionality doesn’t break with a
simple code push/change
What it’s not ?
x Replace Manual Testing
x Covers all scenarios
x Finds all bugs

2. Myths : Automation Testing
Automated testing always results in improved software quality
Every application development project or testing team can use automated
testing tools
Automated testing is an all or nothing proposition
Automation testing can detect all defects in the application
Automation execution alone improves the quality of the system and no
manual effort needed

3. Facts : Automation Testing
Every testing engagement adopting automated testing focuses on regression
tests
Automated testing will never replace manual testing rather they compliment
each other.
Automated testing requires a higher initial investment but can yield a higher
ROI during the product life cycle
Automation tests are predefined tests and targets any specific area.Thus, it
won’t address any deviation or random behavior.

4. Why do we automate?
Reduce manual effort on Repetitive tests
When there are Frequent releases/code changes
To Reduce Execution Cycle time
Saves time and money
Large number of Boundary Value test cases
Enable continuous delivery
Catches problem quickly
Improves accuracy
Increase Test Coverage

5. Available Tools for
Automation
Selenium (open source)
HP Unified Functional Testing Software (formerly QTP)
Test Complete (SmartBear)
RFT (IBM)
WATIR
Robotium (Android testing tool)
SOATest (Parasoft)
SilkTest