Best Strategies For Test Automation Of Software

By Author: Michael Wade
Total Articles: 61
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Before any software or application is released into production, it has to be tested rigorously. The process which involves software tools to run pre-scripted tests on the target application is referred to as Test Automation. As this method involves a very limited set of scripts, it can simplify the testing process for manufacturers. There are several benefits of Test Automation:

• It does not consume as much resources as unit testing
• This test can be carried out innumerable times
• The Test Automation tools keep track of every new bug and thus remain upgraded
• Test Automation can radically improve test results through reruns
• Specific user environments can be simulated through well categorized keystrokes and mouse clicks
Instead of manually testing out every user scenario, they can be programmed into a unique software, which can then carry out automated tests on other new software, thus reducing the time and effort involved in the process.


It Is Better to Have a Dedicated Testing Team

There is a vast difference between manual testing and Test Automation. From the tools used to the time and effort required, Test Automation is a full-fledged responsibility. It is always advisable to build a dedicated team for Test Automation, including one automation architect and several automation engineers working with him or her.

Choose Your Tools Practically

Know your company's system and resources inside out. When choosing your testing tool, make sure it runs well with the platform your company usually runs on and that it also integrates well with the resources and framework the test application is based on. This helps keep the cost down and also makes the testing process seamless and future proof.

Do Not Rely Solely on the Automation Tool

Building the automation tool can aid in the process of testing but it is not the only aspect. The tools cannot work alone if the testers are not familiar with them. When building a team, make sure your testers are acquainted with the way the automation tool is supposed to work. The tools can be buggy and might not be able to test complex processes by themselves if the engineers are not skilled enough.

Know the Application Being Tested

It is very important to have a clear knowledge of the application or software you are testing. This can help in choosing the tools so that the test runs well. For example, in case of a web application, knowing the browser can be a great time saver; for a desktop application, the programming language is a crucial part as unsupported tools can lead to undue complications.

Test Automation Is Not for Everything

Manual testing is necessary no matter what, and automated testing cannot replace it. The main purpose of Test Automation is to prevent repeated testing for the same thing so that manual testers can save time and effort and instead focus on newer testing scenarios and bugs which automated tests cannot handle.

It Is Better to Avoid GUI Automation When Possible

GUI automation can be a tricky process and can be difficult to proceed with, especially at times when the interface has changed. Thus if it is possible to run a test using an alternate method such as a command line input, GUI automation should be avoided in order to ease the process.

Test automation can be rewarding and can ease the testing process for the entire team. However that can only be the case if a proper strategy is followed. From the tools and resources used to the people handling the test, every bit plays a vital role. Understanding the potential of the organization, as well as knowing the application being tested can save a lot of time, effort and money.