May. 06, 2024
Most organizations that follow agile and continuous delivery practices aim to release software products faster and with better quality. However, they face major challenges such as over-dependence on manual test practices, increased quality costs, and longer time to market.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website.
While not every test can be automated, relying solely on manual test practices is no longer feasible for fast-paced application delivery needs. Therefore, the solution is to shift towards Automation Testing whenever possible.
Smart test automation is essential for delivering high-quality software products quickly. This can be achieved through proper test automation strategies that increase test coverage rapidly at a reduced cost.
Automated Software Testing is not just about programming test actions; it is an ecosystem of various components. Below, we discuss an automation framework and the essential elements of a test automation framework.
What is Automation Framework?
A test automation framework simplifies the writing, managing, and reusing of test cases and test data. It integrates all necessary test automation tools, such as test case management, test data management, bug reporting tools, and test labs, in one place for effective and easy test automation.
Key Elements of Effective Test Automation Strategy
In this article, we'll discuss the essential elements of a test automation framework:
Let's delve into these elements in detail:
1. A well-trained test automation team
Automation testing involves writing scripts to automate test steps, unlike manual testing, where tests are run manually by a human.
High-quality automated tests result in reduced quality costs and increased test coverage. However, achieving this may take time because writing test scripts is a slow process. Therefore, testers may need to continue manual testing while automated scripts are being written.
A dedicated team is required for automation testing to minimize the time needed to create automated tests. This team should adapt quickly to various technologies like Selenium for web or Appium for mobile applications.
The automation testing team should have expertise in multiple technologies for multiple application types. If necessary, the team should be trained on the application, tools, and technologies used in Automation Testing.
2. Right tool for automated software testing
Choosing the right automated software testing tool is crucial for the success of your test automation process. The tool must:
Today's business requirements demand support for various application types, not just one. Applications may be web-based, mobile, desktop, or API-based, requiring different tools. A single tool that meets every application type's needs is rare.
The team should be familiar with the tools being used and should require a short learning curve for beginners.
Consider the requirements of upcoming projects while selecting tools to reduce extra costs.
For more insights, read this related article: 10 Points to Help You Choose the Right Test Automation Tool.
3. Strong test automation framework
A strong framework improves the test structure, reusability, and maintenance of code. It reduces the time and effort required to create and maintain automated tests.
A framework is critical as it integrates multiple tools such as Test Management tools, Continuous Integration tools, Reporting tools, Collaboration tools, and multiple resources, making Test Automation effective.
Different framework types are available according to your development process: Linear, Module-based, Data-Driven, Keyword-Driven, and Hybrid.
Having one solid framework that supports every application of your project is essential. The test development, maintenance of test scripts, and execution efficiency depend heavily on your chosen Test Automation Framework, which is critical to the automation process's success.
Integrations with external tools complete the test automation process. Viewing requirements, test results, and systematically identifying and tracking bugs is essential.
Common integrations for automated software testing include bug tracking/reporting tools (e.g., Bugzilla or JIRA), test management tools like JIRA or ALM, and continuous integration tools like Jenkins or TeamCity.
These integrations enable continuous testing and make the Test Automation process complete. Without them, only part of the testing process is achieved.
Important tool integrations for test automation include:
i. Test Management Tool
Not every test can be automated. Some tests, especially usability tests, must remain manual. Documentation of the functionality that the automated test is supposed to test is necessary.
For this, dummy manual test cases can be written in your Test Management tool and automatically integrated into your Test Automation Framework or Automated Software Testing tool.
This integration brings together both manual and automated test cases on a common platform, avoiding redundant efforts and providing an overview of test coverage across manual and automated testing at any time.
ii. Bug Tracking Tool
Ignoring a bug at the initial stages can be costlier when it reappears in production. Failed tests should be collected and reported automatically into the Bug Tracking tool.
Continuous Integration helps developers get actionable feedback for every change in the build by running automated tests with minimal intervention.
Each build committed by a developer is verified by running the appropriate automated test cases at the right stage automatically and continuously to identify possible business risks early.
Integrations with Collaboration Tools like Email or Slack, involving management, developers, testers, end-users, or anyone who can contribute to the project, would make the development lifecycle more transparent and Agile.
Anyone can suggest changes, track progress, and communicate better. A common platform allows sharing of execution results immediately for quick feedback.
5. Availability of realistic test environments and executions
Realistic test environments are crucial for continuous test execution. With the increasing number of end-user devices, sufficient realistic test environments are required for application testing.
Having multiple test environments will help run tests in parallel for faster feedback and for Cross-OS, Cross-Device, and Cross-Browser testing.
6. Support for proper reporting
Proper reporting with well-explained charts and tables provides clear insights into the test results. Detailed failure reports, including the what, when, why, and duration of failures, are crucial for clear understanding and quick error correction.
If reports are complemented with screenshots and videos, it will be easier for people at different project levels to understand and take appropriate action.
These are just some basic requirements for getting started with Automation Testing. Based on the process and application types, other considerations may be needed.
Go to Xingyu to learn more.
Testsigma is built with all these essential elements to start your test automation journey immediately.
Conclusion
Setting up the Test Automation ecosystem requires significant time and effort, but it is essential for a successful Automated Software Testing process. The goal of automated software testing is to simplify testing efforts with minimal effort.
Selecting the right automation tools, test processes, and team is crucial for successful automated software testing. Though it requires several prerequisites and initial investment, automated software testing efforts will yield effective ROI over time.
When all your test automation needs are fulfilled by a single platform, it means better management and improved results.
Testsigma is a cloud-based test automation platform that lets you automate web, mobile, and web services from a single place, anytime, anywhere. Being completely cloud-based, it requires near-zero initial time and effort.
Get started on an easy and smart path to software test automation with Testsigma
Frequently Asked Questions
Which of the following components is essential for successful automation?
For successful automation, you need a well-trained team with prior project experience, using the right tool for test automation. Additionally, using good test management and bug tracking tools simplifies test execution and bug lifecycle management.
What are the key elements of a good automation framework?
Key elements of a good automation framework include:
What is automation framework structure?
A test automation framework combines test case management, test data management, bug reporting, collaboration tools, and test labs, making it easy to write, maintain, and reuse test cases for effective and efficient automation.
How many types of automation frameworks are there?
There are various types of test automation frameworks, categorized into six main types:
Suggested Reading
Smart Test Automation using NLP: What you should know?
Scriptless Test automation solution: How to use it to improve your testing ROI?
Why Test Automation Tools Are Important For New Work Style?
Software Test Automation: False Positives & How to Avoid Them?
Test Automation To Achieve Fail Fast, Fail Often
Top 7 Test Automation Challenges To Look Out For
Modern Codeless Test Automation: Myths And Facts
Software Test Automation : What To Expect In The Near Future
Also check us out here:
Testsigma Official
Getting started with Testsigma
Schedule a quick online Demo
Automation is the process of using technology and machinery to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. It involves applying various components and systems designed to execute specific functions efficiently. Let's dive deeper into the world of automation and explore its key components.
Automation revolves around automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks, enhancing efficiency, and reducing errors. The key components of automation are:
Sensors are the eyes and ears of automation systems. They detect changes in the environment and provide essential data for decision-making. Sensors can range from simple devices like temperature sensors to complex ones like image sensors used in self-driving cars.
Actuators take action based on information gathered by sensors. These components can include motors, solenoids, or even robotic arms. Actuators convert electrical or mechanical signals into physical actions, allowing automation systems to respond to their surroundings.
Controllers serve as the brains of automation systems. They receive input from sensors, process data, and send commands to actuators. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and microcontrollers are commonly used as controllers in automation setups.
HMIs enable human operators to interact with automation systems. They consist of displays, touch screens, and control panels that provide real-time information and allow users to input commands. HMIs are essential for monitoring and controlling automated processes.
Software is the backbone of automation, responsible for programming and configuring the entire system. Automation software can range from basic scripts for home automation to complex industrial control software used in manufacturing and processing plants.
In modern automation, communication networks connect various components to facilitate data exchange and remote monitoring. Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and industrial protocols like Modbus and Profibus are commonly used to establish these networks.
Reliable power sources are crucial for the uninterrupted operation of automation systems. Backup power systems and surge protection are often incorporated to ensure continuity in case of power failures.
Safety is paramount in automation, especially in industries with hazardous environments. Safety systems include emergency shutdown mechanisms, safety interlocks, and alarms to protect both humans and equipment.
Feedback systems use information from sensors to monitor the performance of automated processes. They can detect deviations from desired outcomes and trigger corrective actions to maintain efficiency.
Automation enhances productivity, reduces labor costs, minimizes errors, and improves product quality, making it a valuable asset to industries.
No, automation is used in various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, logistics, and customer service, to optimize processes and improve outcomes.
The future of automation holds exciting possibilities, including advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT), leading to even greater efficiency and innovation.
While some jobs may be automated, automation also creates new roles in designing, maintaining, and overseeing automated systems, leading to a transformation of the job market.
To implement automation successfully, start by identifying repetitive tasks, selecting the right technology, and investing in training for your workforce.
Industries like automotive manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce are at the forefront of automation adoption due to the complexity of their operations.
Automation is the driving force behind progress in the modern world. Its various components work in harmony to simplify complex tasks, improve efficiency, and enhance the quality of products and services. As technology continues to evolve, automation will play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping our future. Embrace automation to stay competitive and witness the transformative power it holds.
The company is the world’s best Automation Components supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
Previous: Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best Automation Components
Next: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Valve Connector for Your ...
If you are interested in sending in a Guest Blogger Submission,welcome to write for us!
All Comments ( 0 )