TestDrive is the interface by which manual and automated testing is performed. Automated testing is generally useful for scenarios where consistent, repeatable tests can be run over a stable initial environment. However this may not always be possible for a number of reasons. For example, when new functionality has been introduced it is inevitable that manual testing will be required during the early stages of the test cycle. Only when stability is confirmed and any interface changes applied might the user wish to record automated tests to use during the later stages of the test cycle and for future releases. Also when an automated test tool is first employed, it is likely that the core areas of the application will be included first, meaning that the peripheral testing tasks still need to be completed manually.

The Manual Testing capabilities within the Original Software products are designed to assist with the testing that is not yet or cannot be automated. It provides documentation and auditing of the tests performed, spell and link checking, the management and storage of results in the TestBench database and integration with test planning so that test tasks can be updated and defects raised. From there manual test results can be converted into automation Scripts so that they become a re-usable asset,

The level of testing that is provided depends on which Original Software products are in use. In its strongest configuration it covers the entire process from the execution of a test task, storage of screen and database results, to the passing or failing of the results and associated defect management.

TestDrive is unlike any other automation solution with its unique properties aimed to maximize ease of use, re-use and breadth of applicability. To get the most from the solution will require a logical and structured approach to automation, so it is wise to understand all the capabilities and how they can be used as well as plan the steps in your automation strategy.