Chapter 1. What Is Just Enough Test Automation?

This is not going to be a discourse on how to select and implement an automated testing tools suite. There are a number of articles and books available today that offer practical advice on tool selection. It is also not an introductory book on software testing automation. If you are reading this book, we'll assume you have some level of previous experience with test automation. We will also assume that you have some serious questions about the practical aspects of test automation. You may, or may not, have a successful implementation under your belt. In any case, you most probably have experienced the operational, political, and cultural pitfalls of test automation. What you need is a how-to book that has some practical tips, tricks, and suggestions, along with a proven approach. If this is what you want, read on. Our perspective on test automation is what you will be getting in the remaining chapters of this book.