What is the purpose of test automation?

The purpose of test automation is primarily to support and enhance test activities. Automation tools are utilized to execute pre-scripted tests on a software application before it is released into production. By automating repetitive and time-consuming testing tasks, teams can improve efficiency and consistency in their testing process. This allows human testers to focus on more complex, exploratory testing or tasks that require human intuition and creativity.

Additionally, automation aids in maintaining a fast feedback loop in agile environments, enabling quicker identification of defects and reducing the time to market. Furthermore, automated tests can be run frequently and reliably, ensuring extensive coverage and facilitating regression testing whenever the application undergoes changes, which is essential in agile methodologies.

While options that mention replacing human testers or ensuring manual testing accuracy might seem relevant, they do not encapsulate the true essence of what test automation aims to achieve. Rather than attempting to replace the human element in testing, effective automation works in conjunction with human efforts to achieve better overall test quality and efficiency. Similarly, while documenting testing outcomes is an integral part of the testing process, it is more of a byproduct of the testing activities rather than the main purpose of test automation itself.