To achieve 100% automation is a pure myth. You will need some % of (manual) testing along with automation in order to deliver a successful project.

1. Do you think glorification of test automation is gaining more momentum rather than implementing it?

Everyone is talking about test automation these days without actually realizing the real need for it. By “real”, what I meant here is: first, we should analyze whether we really need automation for a given project or not? Do we have skilled resources to work on the project? Do we have the required tools/technologies and most important is the budget estimation in place? Does implementing an automation framework bring ROI to the organization? Some organizations are targeting to achieve 100% automation which does not look convincing to me. To achieve 100% automation is a pure myth. You will need some % of (manual) testing along with automation in order to deliver a successful project.
2)When it comes to testing automation, what has to be done to make sure that it’s effective?
Based upon my experience and knowledge of test automation, here are few tips on how to make it more effective:

1. Segregate test cases that can be automated. NOT all tests can be automated. So, in order to have effective test automation, first, we should decide what can be automated.
2. While we are writing tests or scenarios, analyze it parallel if those are GOOD candidates for automation.
3. Tests that are manually executed (time-consuming), select them FIRST for automation.
4. Focus on using quality Test DATA for your tests.
5. Prioritise your tests.

3) Do you think working from home is a safe option considering the vulnerability of computers and networks we use for our domestic purposes?
Since the Govt. has declared the norm of Working from home, we are more prone to cyber-attacks. As an experienced professional, one must understand the security and vulnerability of computer system and network devices.
We should be taking precautionary measures in order to prevent a security breach. When we are working from home, the probability of getting the system attack/data breach/data decryption/data security is at its peak so one must be attentive to avoid such a threat.
So, we should use personal computers to do personal work rather than company’s devices. A basic level of security can be achieved with small steps in a day to day life.
4) what are the challenges you face when it comes to test automation?

1. You should have strong knowledge of framework design and implementation.
2. You should be familiar with the programming language core concepts in order for you to understand the framework built and design. For example: If automation framework is built using Java as programming language, then you must know about OOPS concepts.
3. You should be aware of how to use design patterns in a specific automation project.
4. How to deal with different exceptions for example: pageLoadTimeout or ElementNotfoundException?
5. Not all resources in the team have the same level of knowledge on the application.
6. Thorough product understanding is a must.
7. Effective communication and collaboration in a team
8. Sometimes, after using the correct X-Path, unable to locate an element.
9. To handle pop-ups and alerts in web-based automation projects.

5) What’s the difference between a good test and a bad test?
A good test should be reliable, easy to understand, crisp, and independent from each other. Good tests always add value to a project. Good tests can be automated considering the qualities of the test. Good tests are a result of critical thinking and deep analysis of a given user requirement.
Whereas Bad test which consumes a lot of time but does not provide any value to a project. These are unnecessary lengthy steps and can’t be automated. This does not convey the purpose of the test. Not understandable and not readable as well.