Test Automation Approach
Record and Playback
Pros
Cons
Usage
Basic projects with short test flows
ideal way to get into automation
Low development costs
Simple design and ease deployment
Functional price
Limited performance, robustness and flexibility
Maintenance costs can be high
Record and Playback Enhanced
Pros
Cons
Usage
Project with modest automation requirement
Low cost development and deployment
Modest performance
Moderate usability and flexibility
High maintenance costs due to manual intervencion
Data Driven
Usage
Satisfies mode advanced testing needs
Cons
Pros
Good usability
Good re-usability
Solid test flow coverage
Reproducible test results
Performance is based on the automation skills of the person
Regular maintenance
Manual intervention upon failure
Keyword Driven
Pros
Cons
Usage
Suitable for many automation testing projects across multiple applications
Good script usability
Good script re-usability
Test flow coverage
Ability to reproduce test results
Sophisticated programming skills not need it
Significant upfront investment for the design and implementation
Keyword limitations restrict the complexity of test cases
Regular maintenance
Manual intervention upon failure