Automation testing utilizes software to automatically control the execution of tests while comparing the results to predetermined targets for success or failure. Unlike manual testing, which requires a person to sit down in front of a computer and carefully implement the test step by step, automated testing is more efficient. Every software organization in today’s internet-based world requires a qualified Automation tester interested in a career in automation testing. With less time and effort, it helps the company grow and reach a bigger audience.
Software companies need Automation testers to fill this need. Beginners can jumpstart their automation testing career by taking an automation testing course, which, upon completion, will result in an automation testing certificate.
What is automation testing?
Automation testing boosts the testing program’s efficiency and effectiveness, using an application to implement the whole software life cycle in less time.
Automation testing is a process in which the program is tested using scripts written by the tester and appropriate applications. To put it another way, it’s a computerized version of a laborious manual procedure. Automation testing, like regression testing, is employed to examine the application’s load, performance, and resilience to stress.
So, let’s use an example to illustrate the point better. While manual testing is carried out by humans who write and execute each test case one at a time, automation testing is carried out by a technology that runs the test cases automatically.
You can’t carry out repetitive tasks and other kinds of testing manually; hence, it’s done through Automation. Besides that, it helps with both functional and non-functional tests.
On the other hand, automation testing makes use of automation tools to create and test cases without the need for human intervention. Typically, testers use an automation tool to generate test scripts and test cases, then collect them into test suites.
Automated testing’s primary objective is to improve test efficiency while also developing software’s utility.
Why Automated testing?
The following are a few advantages or benefits of automation testing:
- The overall test execution time is lowered using automation testing. Given that the automated test execution process saves time over manually doing the same tests.
- It lowers the project’s costs and resource requirements. A script that has been generated once can be used indefinitely if the application isn’t changed.
- When dealing with a vast amount of input, manual testing isn’t an option.
- Assists in creating a Continuous Integration environment in which the new build automatically executes the test suite after each code push.
- It’s possible to establish jobs that run the test cases once a build has been deployed and send the test results to stakeholders using CICD technologies like Jenkins.
The Automation workflow
- Defining the Automation’s goal
It is the component of your application that needs to be automated, and it may be determined using the following criteria:
- Standard functionality across the application
- Features that are critical to your business
- Technical viability
- Test case complexity
- Ability to apply similar test cases for cross-browser testing
- You can describe the Automation’s scope based on these factors.
- Choosing a testing tool
The next step is to choose an automation testing solution from various options accessible on the market. However, the technology used to build the application tests has a significant impact, and a proof-of-concept test on AUT is therefore recommended before selecting a tool.
- Planning, Design, and Development
This phase requires the development of an automation strategy and plan. It may contain the following information:
- Selected automated testing tools
- Design and functionality of the framework
- Timeline and schedule for writing scripts and performing test cases
- Automation elements that are within and outside of the scope of the project
- Automation testing deliverables
- Execution of test cases
Scripts for automated testing are run during this phase, and you must submit input data to the scripts. Once the scripts have been executed, you’ll receive comprehensive test results in a report. You can use an automation tool directly to run the test cases or use a test management solution that uses an automation tool.
Completely automated test cases
You may automate the test cases depending on the circumstances listed below, which will also help you maximize your automation ROI.
- In high-risk situations, like with mission-critical test cases
- If you need to test cases repeatedly, then use this approach.
- You can’t run manual test cases if they’re long and cumbersome to set up.
- Test scenarios that take longer than intended to run
In most circumstances, Automation is effective only under the conditions above; otherwise, you should continue manual testing.
Valuable tools for Automated tests
You’ll need an automation tool once you’ve selected a test automation framework. Only one or a few of these well-known automation programs may meet your needs.
- Selenium: It is the most widely used test automation tool. Selenium is an excellent tool for testing Web applications and offers unparalleled versatility compared to other available tools. It is compatible with various programming languages (C#, Groovy, Java, Pearl, PHP, Python, and Scala). It runs on the three most widely used operating systems (Windows, Mac, and Linux).
- Katalon Studio: Katalon Studio is the only place to go if you want extensive testing. Selenium’s best features are used while allowing testers to accomplish more with this new framework built on Selenium. Katalon Studio is an all-in-one automation system covering Web, API, mobile, and desktop application testing.
- Ranorex: Ranorex may be the answer to all of your UI testing needs. It is designed for ease of use and is compatible with many online, desktop, and mobile platforms. Additionally, Ranorex’s intelligent object identification enables tests to continue running even if conditions change mid-test, providing peace of mind.
Closing note
After understanding the test automation process, you can choose the appropriate technology for automating your learning. Automation testing is the most efficient technique to accomplish most testing objectives with little resources and time. Before automating an application, you should ensure that you have skilled personnel. Therefore, select the instrument that best meets your needs and perform manual testing for the remainder.
