6 Best Practices For Implementing Test Automation

By Author: Michael Wade
Total Articles: 67
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Automated Software Testing or Test Automation is programmable according to exact testing specifications, enables user environment simulation, simplifies repetition in a cost effective, time saving, resourceful, and highly effective manner. It is superior in regression testing, and effortlessly manages time consuming, and iterative tests in the software development lifecycle. Regression testing zones in on different bugs and categorizes them to deliver superior quality results.

It is often programmed in-house by testing firms to be in sync with precise testing protocols for new software products, and concurrently observes latest security protocols. Additionally, it is super effective in executing Graphical User Interface (GUI) testing. Software testing professionals resort to testing the newly developed software product in a simulated user defined environment, which is followed by troubleshooting any bugs in the responsive platform of the GUI.

Test Automation or Functional Test Automation makes this two-fold process fast, seamless and perfect.
Test Automation Strategy for executing Functional Test Automation

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.

1. 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.

2. Choose Your Test Automation 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 costs down and also makes the testing process seamless and future proof.

3. Do not rely solely on the Automation Tool

The tools cannot work alone if the testers are not familiar with them. While building a team make sure your testers are acquainted with the way the automation tool is supposed to work. The tools might be incapable of testing complex processes by themselves if the engineers are not skilled enough.

4. 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 you choose the tools so that the tests run effectively. 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.

5. Test Automation cannot cover 100% testing

Complete test automation is impossible. 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 that automated tests cannot handle.

6. 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.

Conclusion
< a href="http://www.gallop.net/test-automation">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, infrastructure, to the people handling the test, every bit plays a vital role. Understanding the business objectives of the organization, and knowing the application under test (AUT) can save a lot of time, effort and money.