Automation Face-Off

What do you think about when you hear the words "test automation"? Are you considering developing your own tools to help you probe the product deeply, or will you apply a commercial tool for automated checking? Are “tools” and “automation” the same thing in your world, or do you see them as fundamentally different? Are you excited by new, powerful, enabling technologies, or do you worry that a robot will replace you? And are these our only choices? One thing is for sure: When we apply automation and tools, we may fundamentally change the context and the nature of the work we do. Our panelists Michael Bolton, Isabel Evans, and Chris Loder—who each has their own perspective on automation—will discuss all this and more with you. Together, we'll probe what different people mean by automation, the power that tools can bring to our testing, and the pitfalls that can add challenges for the whole team. We'll look at where, when, and how to apply tools, not only to help us in testing, but to help the whole team deliver robust, carefully checked, and diligently tested products to our customers. Join this lively conversation about one of the most controversial topics in testing.