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