Common Pitfalls in Test Automation and How to Avoid Them

Test automation, when executed correctly, can be a game-changer for product development. However, it’s crucial to be aware of and avoid common pitfalls to fully realize its potential.

Pitfall 1: Over-Reliance on Automation

It’s a common misconception that every test should be automated. However, not all tests are suitable for automation.

Strategy: Prioritize tests for automation based on their frequency of execution and impact. Keep a balance between manual and automated testing for optimal results.
Product Development Gain: This balance leads to more comprehensive testing, ensuring both detailed checks and broader user experience aspects are covered.

Pitfall 2: Inadequate Planning

Jumping into test automation without proper planning can lead to chaotic and ineffective outcomes.

Strategy: Develop a clear test automation strategy, defining goals, scope, tool selection, and integration with the development process.
Product Development Gain: Proper planning ensures that test automation aligns with the product goals, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the development process.

Pitfall 3: Choosing the Wrong Tools

Selecting tools that don’t align with the project’s requirements or technology stack can hamper the testing process.

Strategy: Evaluate tools based on compatibility with the tech stack, ease of use, community support, and scalability.
Product Development Gain: The right tools can significantly increase the speed and accuracy of testing, accelerating development cycles and improving product quality.

Pitfall 4: Neglecting Test Maintenance

Tests and frameworks need regular updates to stay relevant with the evolving application.

Strategy: Allocate time for regular review and maintenance of test scripts to ensure their effectiveness over time.
Product Development Gain: Up-to-date tests remain relevant and effective, reducing the risk of defects slipping through, and maintaining high product standards.

Pitfall 5: Insufficient Testing Skills

Test automation requires a combination of testing knowledge and technical skills.

Strategy: Invest in training and development for team members or hire individuals with the necessary skill set.
Product Development Gain: A skilled testing team enhances the quality of both automated and manual tests, directly impacting the reliability and market-readiness of the product.

Pitfall 6: Lack of Continuous Monitoring

Failing to continuously monitor the test automation process can lead to overlooked defects and inefficiencies.

Strategy: Implement monitoring tools and practices to regularly check the performance and effectiveness of your test automation.
Product Development Gain: Continuous monitoring allows for immediate identification and rectification of issues, ensuring a smooth and efficient development lifecycle.

Pitfall 7: Ignoring Test Data Management

Poor management of test data can result in unrepresentative and ineffective tests.

Strategy: Establish robust procedures for creating, managing, and maintaining test data to ensure its relevance and quality.
Product Development Gain: Quality test data ensures that tests are realistic and representative, leading to more reliable and market-relevant product testing.

Richard Bradshaw, known as @FriendlyTester, lists common ways to fail in test automation.

starting with tool selection
using only one framework
separating test strategy from automation strategy
automating late in the development cycle
automating poor testability
removing human elements
running all tests at every build
focusing solely on UI automation
striving for 100% code coverage without testing the tests themselves)

Conclusion

By avoiding these common pitfalls in test automation, organizations can reap significant benefits in their product development cycle. These benefits include enhanced efficiency, improved product quality, faster time-to-market, and a more robust and reliable final product. Recognizing and strategically addressing these challenges paves the way for a successful and fruitful test automation journey.

About the author

Henrik Lönn is one of the Business Coach at QESTIT in Sweden. The role involves building successful teams, recruiting new colleagues, selling consultants and services as well as strategic work with business development. He has more than 20 years of experience in leading roles in the IT industry, and ten of them as a consultant.