As automated testing becomes increasingly popular, more and more people in the developing world are taking a keen interest in this phenomenon. They are wondering exactly how it is different from manual testing, which has been the industry standard so far. Well, before we can get to that, allow us to first quickly walk you through exactly what these two testing methods are about.



Manual testing: The conventional testing method so far, manual testing refers to the process wherein individuals tasked with the job of testing manually look for bugs and other issues in the program. It, by the way, isn’t as random as it sounds — there is a set protocol and plan that lists a variety of test cases.

Automated testing: Here, testers write the code often used to automate the process of testing the software in question. Of course, they make use of relevant tools and resources to write the code mentioned above. It, in turn, helps them give credence to the software getting tested, albeit at a much faster pace as compared to manual testing. Oh, and when the script for testing is executed, it examines the result it achieves with the expected outcomes. While this may sound very lucrative, it is imperative to understand the differences between manual and automated testing to be sure which strategy its better suited for your requirements.
  1. Estimated Time: This one is sort of apparent — manual testing is more time consuming because it is executed manually. With automated testing, the time taken to complete one cycle of testing is substantially shorter. It is because a script is doing what would otherwise be entrusted with a human.
  2. User experience: When one uses manual testing for the software, one can virtually guarantee top-notch user experience. It is chalked up to the fact that it involves scrutiny by a human along with the application of there innovative cognitive capabilities. Whereas with automated testing, a high-quality user experience can’t be assured. It is because since it lacks the human touch and a machine can’t replicate skills and cognitive capabilities.
  3. Expense: Since manual testing is, well, manual, i.e., needs the expertise and skills of a consummate professional to perform the task, the cost involved is substantially higher. With automated testing, the charge is reduced by a significant margin because once the script is integrated, it can be used for a while. So, you don’t have to create a script for testing the software repeatedly.
  4. Scale: While extensive scale manual testing is possible, it takes much time to complete. But when one uses automated testing, extensive scale testing can be completed quickly and that too without compromising the efficiency.

To conclude, one of the two methods you use is a subjective decision. But irrelevant of which type of QA software testing services you opt for, make sure that you use the tools that can productively address all aspects of the software.