Software testing is crucial for verifying that software behaves according to specifications, and it can be performed through manual or automated methods, each with distinct advantages and challenges. Manual testing involves engineers manually executing test scenarios to find bugs, which is particularly useful for exploratory, usability, and ad-hoc testing, but is time-consuming and prone to human error. On the other hand, automated testing uses tools to execute repetitive tests efficiently and accurately, making it ideal for regression and performance testing, although it requires a significant initial investment in test script development and expertise. Automation enhances testing quality by reducing human error and freeing up resources for more strategic activities, but it can be complex and costly to implement. The text also introduces testRigor, a tool that simplifies the automation process, enabling manual testers to create automated tests using plain English commands, thus bridging the gap between manual and automated testing.