Automation has evolved significantly with the introduction of Industry 4.0 technologies. Industry 4.0 refers to a new phase of the industrial revolution that focuses on automation, machine learning, augmented reality and advanced analytics.
Software test automation and software robotics (Robotic Process Automation) are thriving branches of the advanced automation world.
At first glance, test automation and RPA may seem similar and are often confused. However, although their use has similar implications, they are two different things. In this article, we put together a comprehensive information package on test automation, software robotics, their benefits and differences.
What is automation?
Automation aims to reduce human interaction with certain processes. Automation technology has been around for a long time and is a natural part of our daily lives. The main goal of automation is to free up human time for more important, meaningful and interactive tasks.
What is test automation?
Test automation is a method of software testing that uses various technological solutions to perform tests automatically. Test automation does not fully replace other testing methods, but works alongside manual testing. For example, repeated test cases in acceptance testing, i.e. regression testing, is one typical application of test automation.
The necessary testing tools and environments will be implemented and optimised according to the requirements received from suppliers. At this stage, a testing expert is needed to understand the requirements of the customer’s environment, possible constraints and design the tools to be used in the project. Typically, the automation tools are located in the Robot Framework and DevOps operating models in different environments
Nextcon has observed in customer projects that, for example, test automation projects implemented with Robot Framework are almost always built around customer-driven needs. In successful software projects, testing and quality assurance is an important part of the project and has been taken into account during the design phase of the project.
We wrote about test automation earlier in our article “One test automation, please“, where Markku Kestikievari, Nextcon’s lead test consultant, talks about test automation and how to use it.
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Benefits of test automation
Above all, the purpose of test automation is to reduce repetitive, manual testing steps. At the same time, the aim is to achieve cost savings, reduce lead times and improve overall quality. Especially in situations where a lot of testing has to be done frequently, test automation can lead to significant cost savings.
Speed is an absolute advantage of test automation. A test robot can run tests much faster than a human, saving time. In addition to saving time, a test robot allows for more efficient feedback and faster response to issues that need to be corrected. The quicker the feedback, the quicker the issues are moved to the fix and from there to production.
In addition to time and cost savings, increasing the level of test automation reduces the number of human errors in testing and thus improves the quality of work.
Test automation frees up test automation experts’ time for exploratory testing that requires human reasoning.
Test automation tools
Nextcon offers its customers the sharpest edge in testing! We always select a testing expert according to the task and the customer’s needs. We will ensure that the expert is trained according to the specialist knowledge and testing requirements of the industry. Our versatile expertise provides the professional skills needed for quality assurance. Click here to learn more about our testing and quality assurance services.
What is software robotics?
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is an automation technology used to automate various repetitive and manual business processes and activities. Software robotics is particularly suited to streamlining processes related to information work.
The benefits of software robotics
Software robotics aims to speed up, facilitate and streamline time-consuming manual processes that can take up to days or weeks of valuable human time.
In addition to cost efficiency and time savings, software robotics also has many other benefits. Software robotics improves the predictability of results and the quality of work, and can also be used to make more efficient use of data to support business development.
Typically, as organisations grow, so do their workloads. This usually means recruiting additional staff, which can be a time-consuming and costly process for the company. The robot is developed to meet the needs of your business, eliminating the need to recruit, induct or train new staff and thus saving costs.
RPA tools
A more agile future for your business
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What is the difference between software robotics and test automation?
As mentioned at the beginning, test automation and RPA are easily confused as processes and terms. And no wonder, as they can help a company achieve similar benefits.
However, there are fundamental differences between software robotics and software testing that are very important to understand, especially from a business development perspective.
Finally
Manual and repetitive tasks and processes take up a surprising amount of working time and often reduce the meaningfulness of work.
RPA can be used for all routine and computer-based manual work. This includes invoicing, payroll processing, reporting, testing, order processing and customer management.
For example, test automation can be used to implement interface testing, automate regression testing, streamline manual testing and perform coverage testing. Properly targeted and planned testing frees up experts’ time for other essential tasks.
Automation is suitable for businesses of all sizes and can be used regardless of industry. There is a job in almost every company that can be automated and made more efficient.
Nextco as a testing services partner
Nextcon’s testing services are always designed to meet the needs, resources and business environment of the client. Our experts will ensure successful testing and quality assurance for your business, whether it is manual software testing, test automation, test planning and coordination, or a combination of all of these. We value open communication and transparency in our company, which is also reflected in our customer projects.
Automation aims to make your business more efficient and free up your employees’ time for more productive work. We want to be part of building your business and freeing up important resources for core business development through automation.