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Transitioning from manual to automation testing is significant for any software testing expert. With 85% of organizations adopting test automation (according to the World Quality Report), the demand for faster releases and higher software quality is driving the shift toward automation testing. If you’re considering switching the testing process, it’s crucial to use a systematic approach that guarantees a seamless switch and optimizes the advantages of test automation.

In this blog, we will lead you through the essential five steps to effectively transition from manual testing to automation testing.

Key Takeaways

  • Start with simple automation scripts and gradually expand your test coverage as you gain experience.
  • Choose the right tools and frameworks that align with your project’s needs and tech stack.
  • Build a strong foundation in coding and test automation principles to ensure a smooth transition from manual to automated testing.

5 Steps Required to Switch from Manual to Automation Testing 

The transition from manual to automation testing involves learning new tools and selecting suitable test cases, tools, and strategies. Here are the five important steps to guide you through the process.

Step 1: Find Suitable Test Cases to Automate

Before you start with test automation, you need to identify appropriate test cases, as not all of them can be automated. You will concentrate only on test cases that are repetitive, time-consuming, or have a high risk during test execution. 

Which Test Cases Should You Automate? 

  • Repetitive tasks: These are best suited for automation because they take up a lot of time, and there is a high chance that many mistakes will be committed while doing this manually.
  • High-risk areas: Functions or features that must be tested often.
  • Regression testing: Tests that should be run frequently with each release cycle.
  • Data-driven tests: Tests that require running on lots of data sets.

Which Test Cases You Should Keep Manual?

  • Exploratory testing: This testing requires the human intuition and creativity of the human mind.
  • Ad-hoc testing: It refers to one-time tests that are not performed regularly.
  • UI/UX testing: The visual features of a program frequently require human confirmation.

Proper selection of the test cases to be automated would ensure that value could be maximized from transition to automation testing.

Step 2: Find the Compatible Tools or Frameworks

Once you’ve determined which test cases to automate, the following step is to choose the appropriate automation tools and frameworks for your needs. Different projects require different tools, so it’s critical to consider several options before deciding.

What to Consider When Picking Tools?

  • Programming Language Compatibility: Select a tool that supports the programming languages used by your development team.
  • Integration with the CI/CD tools: Ensure the solution interfaces easily with your existing CI/CD tools, like Jenkins or GitLab, to ensure continuous integration and delivery.
  • Test environment compatibility: Check that the tool can execute tests in your target settings (e.g., web, mobile, desktop).
  • Cost and Support: Evaluate whether the product is within your budget and provides enough support, particularly for open-source tools.

Popular automation tools:

  • Selenium is a popular open-source tool for web application testing.
  • Appium is ideal for mobile application testing.
  • TestComplete is a powerful tool for testing desktop and web applications.
  • Cypress is known for its quick execution, particularly for current JavaScript frameworks.

The appropriate tool or framework is critical to establishing an effective test automation process.

Step 3: Manage the Tool Development Process

Moving from manual to automation testing is much more than a choice of tool; it also includes effective management of the development process. This includes setting up a framework that will support the writing and execution, as well as maintaining automated test scripts.

How to Manage the Development Process?

  • Create a great framework: A good test automation framework ensures your test scripts are reusable, scalable and easy to maintain.
  • Set Proper Guidelines: Establish coding standards and guidelines for writing automated test scripts. It will make work more consistent and readable.
  • Collaboration between testers and developers: Let them be on the same page and be able to collaborate very well in writing and maintaining automation scripts.
  • Start small: Automate a small set of tests and expand step by step as the team becomes comfortable with the process.

Therefore, proper management of the tool development process is essential for achieving long-term success in automation testing.

Step 4: Generate-Execute-Report-Maintain

With your tools and frameworks in hand, it’s time to focus on the continuous cycle of test automation, which includes Generating, Executing, Reporting, and Maintaining.

Generate

Scripting your tests: Use the test cases you defined to generate your test scripts using your selected automation tools.

Execute

Running the tests: Schedule regular execution of your automated tests. Integrate with your CI/CD tools so that tests are automatically triggered during builds and deployments.

Report

Capturing results: Reporting is an integral part of the automation process. A good automation tool must be able to generate those types of reports that yield results, reasons for failure, and areas that can be improved on.

Maintain

Updation and Refinement of Scripts: Since your application also undergoes growth, your automated test scripts need updating. Regular maintenance is required so your scripts become relevant and effective in running tests.

This makes sure that you maintain it up to date with the evolving needs of the project and that it continuously delivers value on time.

Step 5: Monitor the Automation Tool’s Effectiveness

Finally, it is important to constantly check the performance and utility of your automation tools and test cases. Automation is not a “set it and forget it” process; you need to track the effectiveness of your automated testing on a regular basis.

How to Monitor Effectiveness?

  • Track test execution times: Automation helps to speed up the testing process. Keep an eye on test execution timings and make improvements if they are taking too long.
  • Measure the return on investment (ROI): Do automated tests save time and costs compared to manual testing? Ensure that automation is providing you with value.
  • Evaluate the failure rate. Keep note of failed tests and look into whether they reflect issues with the application or faults in the automated scripts.
  • Adapt and improve: New tools and techniques will emerge as technology advances. Be ready to adapt new tools and methods as required.

Monitor and improve your automated testing process to guarantee that it remains efficient and successful over time.

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Winding Up

Switching from manual to automated testing is a satisfying process that can significantly enhance the productivity and reliability of your testing efforts. To ensure a smooth transition and long-term success,  it would be better for you to follow the transition steps. You can switch seamlessly by identifying appropriate test cases, selecting the correct automation tools, managing the development process, continuously executing tests, and measuring efficiency. 

Also, it is a fact that automation testing is a valuable skill in today’s fast-paced development environments, especially with the growing significance of CI/CD tools and frequent product releases. By implementing a mindful and cautious move, you will improve your testing process and position yourself as a more flexible and in-demand professional.

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Rakshabandhan Sale