The use of AI in software testing is gaining traction, but concerns persist about its readiness for widespread adoption. A recent survey of 1,755 tech executives by Capgemini and Sogeti found that 68% of organizations now use generative AI to assist with software quality efforts. However, 61% of respondents expressed concerns about the implementation of AI.
“The debate on which quality engineering and testing activities will benefit most from Gen AI remains unresolved,” the study noted. It highlighted a growing focus on using AI “for test reporting and data generation over test-case creation.”
The survey also revealed that about 29% of organizations have fully integrated AI into their test automation processes, while 42% are exploring its potential. Cloud-native technologies and robotic process automation, along with AI, are prevalent in this new area of test automation.
Despite the potential benefits, employing AI as a software quality assurance tool has its challenges.
Getting onboard with AI testing
A lack of comprehensive test automation strategies and a reliance on legacy systems were identified by 57% and 64% of respondents, respectively, as key barriers to advancing automation efforts.
The authors of the study, led by Jeff Spevacek of OpenText, stated, “On the technology front, the adoption of newer, smarter test automation tools has driven the average level of test automation to 44%. However, the most transformative trend this year is the rapid adoption of AI, particularly Gen AI, which is set to make a huge impact.
The integration of AI in software quality engineering is still evolving. Only one-third of respondents noted that most of their quality engineers participate in Agile teams.
This lack of participation might not necessarily be negative, hinting at the need for quality engineers who can adapt to the changing landscape of software development and testing. As AI continues to advance, its role in software testing is expected to grow. However, organizations must address the challenges and concerns surrounding its implementation to fully realize the benefits of this transformative technology.
Noah Nguyen is a multi-talented developer who brings a unique perspective to his craft. Initially a creative writing professor, he turned to Dev work for the ability to work remotely. He now lives in Seattle, spending time hiking and drinking craft beer with his fiancee.
