How do you manage conflicts between team members who prefer manual over automated testing methods?

Address conflicts by facilitating open dialogue to understand preferences and concerns. Encourage mutual learning and skill development in both manual and automated testing. Establish clear guidelines on when each method should be applied based on project requirements. Foster a collaborative environment focused on optimizing testing efficiency and effectiveness.

Have a initial individual connects with manual and automation team to understand their pros and cons. As the manual team won't focus on coding/tool for automation devise a plan for training's and have a connect with both manual and automation teams and explain the importance of automation for robust results in due course of time and time effectiveness during execution time and at same time focus on manual testing on initial stages to have stable product. Try to focus on metrics on automation results to have clear understanding of its effectiveness and at same time manual efforts on identifying critical issues at early stages to have more stable product.

Understand the requirement of where the test methodologies need to implemented, study about the scope where manual or automation is required

When addressing conflicts between manual and automated testing preferences, it's important to understand the biases that fuel these disagreements. Manual testing advocates often value the human insight it provides, while proponents of automation emphasize speed and repeatability. Acknowledge these biases and encourage team members to consider the other perspective. Highlight scenarios where each method excels, and remind everyone that the goal is to deliver high-quality software, not to win an argument.

Inform the team and stakeholders about the test scope for implementing test methodologies. Provide inputs regarding the manual and automation testing scopes, as well as any challenges that may arise.

Training opportunities provide team members with valuable chances to enhance their skills and knowledge in specific areas relevant to their roles. These opportunities often include workshops, courses, webinars, and certifications that equip individuals with updated techniques, tools, and best practices. By participating in training, team members can stay current with industry trends, improve their efficiency, and contribute more effectively to team goals. Training also fosters a supportive environment where continuous learning is encouraged, leading to greater job satisfaction and professional growth for all team members involved.

In order to enhance the team's overall productivity and foster a high-performing work environment, it is essential to provide targeted training opportunities to team members, addressing their specific areas of weakness. This strategic approach not only improves individual skill sets but also contributes to building a robust and competent team.

Develop metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of both testing methods objectively. Ensure that these metrics focus on the quality of the product, not just the speed or cost of testing.

En contexte agile, les cérémonies de rétrospectives peuvent être un moment d'échange moins formel, permettant par certaines techniques (ice breaker, gaming, ...) de libérer la parole. Ce moment est donc particulièrement opportun pour identifier l'apport positif de chacune des techniques manuelles et automatisé. Et y analyser leurs points de crispation pour améliorer le processus de test.

The basic approach to conflict resolution is helpful. However understanding why the tester prefers manual test vs automated test is important. Is this a scenarios where automation is causing more harm than being helpful? Do they understand benefits of shift left strategies? Are they overwhelmed by looking at code, run their own tests jobs or more? Understanding the why is so crucial. Once that is gathered, using strengths and weaknesses and helping aid provide adoption, minimize learning curve, or enhance the automated state to resolve any lingering issues

It requires a balanced approach that values both perspectives. Initiate open discussions to understand the reasons behind each preference, emphasizing the strengths and limitations of both methods. Encourage collaboration by assigning tasks that combine both approaches, such as using manual testing for exploratory and usability aspects, and automated testing for repetitive, regression tasks. Promote a culture of continuous learning where team members can gain skills in both areas. This inclusive strategy can help harmonize efforts, ensuring comprehensive testing coverage while respecting individual expertise and preferences.

Foster a culture of collaboration and flexibility. Encourage team members to be open to trying new approaches and adapting to changes. Lead by example. Show a willingness to embrace both manual and automated testing methods and highlight their successes. Involve stakeholders in the decision-making process. Their support can facilitate smoother transitions and broader acceptance.