Lightweight test automation is often associated with Agile software development methodology.
Compared with commercial frameworks, lightweight automation is less expensive in initial cost and is more flexible.
Compared with open source frameworks, lightweight automation is more stable because there are fewer updates and external dependencies.
Lightweight test automation is generally used to complement, not replace these alternative approaches.
The most widely published proponent of the use of lightweight software test automation is Dr. James D. McCaffrey.