Which of the following best describes the primary goal of automation in testing?

The primary goal of automation in testing is to increase the speed and efficiency of the testing process. Automated testing allows for quicker execution of test cases, reducing the time it takes to validate software changes compared to manual testing. This efficiency enables teams to run numerous tests simultaneously, which can significantly shorten the development and release cycles, ultimately leading to faster feedback and improved software quality.

Furthermore, automation helps in performing repetitive tasks without human error, ensuring consistency in the testing process. This allows teams to focus their efforts on more complex testing scenarios and exploratory testing, where human insight is necessary. The goal is not to complicate processes or replace manual testers entirely, as both automation and manual testing have their places in a comprehensive testing strategy, but rather to complement one another to produce a better quality product more quickly.