In the dynamic realm of software development, the call for automation, especially in Quality Assurance (QA), is resonating more than ever. The allure of automated QA lies in its potential to enhance efficiency and elevate software quality. However, let’s not be swayed by the allure alone, for automated QA, when executed inadequately, can lead to a host of issues.
At GlobalStep, we stand as pioneers in striking the delicate equilibrium between automation and manual intervention. This unique approach ensures that our clients benefit from state-of-the-art practices, and we are well-equipped to showcase this through the lens of real-world failures and exemplary outcomes.
The Role of Automation in Software Development
Imagine the development process as a vast landscape of software innovation, where the implementation of automated testing infrastructure parallels the construction of railways, enabling QA processes to traverse efficiently. Yet, herein lies a critical consideration – the rigidity inherent in this approach. Just as trains can only follow tracks, a heavily automated testing process can lead to over-automation. This phenomenon is characterized by an excessive reliance on automation, at the cost of sidelining the manual testing process, which possesses the agility to tackle unforeseen challenges and adapt to evolving product requirements.
Real-World Examples of QA Automation Challenges
Real-world examples illustrate the perils of this scenario. Take the case of an e-commerce platform that heavily automated their QA processes sidelined their manual QA processes to expedite releases and lower costs. When faced with an unexpected surge in traffic during a flash sale, a number of users encountered blocking bugs owing to the exploratory way in which users interact with software, and the automated system failed to detect those issues, an unexpected error , resulting in a loss of income and unhappy customers. In another instance, a gaming company’s automated tests failed to execute due to unexpected technical issues. A small manual team couldn’t cover all of the tests in time leading to loss in player confidence and a delayed release.
GlobalStep’s Balanced Approach to QA Automation
This is where GlobalStep’s approach sets us apart. We firmly acknowledge that while automation offers unparalleled speed and consistency, it must be accompanied by human intuition and adaptability. Our strategy hinges on strategic choices:
- Selective Automation: We meticulously choose test cases suitable for automation – repetitive, time-consuming, or requiring high precision. But areas where creativity plays a pivotal role are reserved for human testers.
- Exploratory Testing: Our commitment to regular exploratory testing ensures that our QA team is deeply connected to both the software and the user experience. This practice unveils bugs that automated scripts might overlook and provides a channel for subjective user feedback.
- Agile Adaptation: We embrace the philosophy of continuous evaluation and adjustment in our testing strategy. This adaptability ensures that our QA process remains aligned with evolving project needs.
- Holistic Upskilling: Our QA testers undergo comprehensive upskilling. This not only hones their manual testing prowess but also equips them with the technical competence needed for effective automation.
- Strategic Automation Scope: We steer clear of automating areas prone to significant changes. This foresight prevents wastage of resources in rewriting automation scripts when the product evolves.
- Coding Excellence: Our automation team adheres to coding best practices, ensuring that our scripts are not only efficient but also comprehensible and maintainable. This practice expedites test modification and aids in the seamless onboarding of new team members.
While the industry buzzes with fervor over complete automation, GlobalStep remains the vanguard of balanced QA practices. Our approach, validated through successes and fortified by learnings from failures, positions us as the premier choice for clients seeking to infuse their automation endeavors with astute human insights. Trust us to guide your journey toward QA excellence where automation and human intellect converge harmoniously.
Check out some of our case studies which would give you an indepth understanding of GlobalStep’s Digital Assurance services and the difference they have made for our clients.
