Test Automation

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Test Automation

Test automation is an essential component of modern software quality assurance. It enables tests to be carried out more efficiently, errors to be identified at an early stage and development cycles to be shortened. In the following, I will write about why test automation is important, which methods are available and which best practices are crucial for successful implementation.

What is Test Automation?

Test automation refers to the use of software tools to carry out tests without manual intervention. This enables faster and more consistent validation of software functions. Automated tests can be used in different phases of the software development cycle and are particularly helpful for repeatable test scenarios.

Kinds of Automated Tests (Selection)

Why is Test Automation Important?

Test automation not only saves valuable time - a resource that cannot be scaled at will. Test automation also enables flexible testing at any time, i.e. much more often than would be possible in a manual test.

1. Increased Efficiency and Speed

Automated tests can be carried out around the clock and save time compared to manual tests.

2. Improved Test Coverage

Automation allows more tests to be carried out in less time, enabling greater coverage.

3. Faster Error Detection

Errors are found earlier in the development process, which reduces rectification costs.

4. Consistency and Repeatability

Automated tests always deliver the same results and minimize human error.

5. Support and Acceleration of the Development Process

Not only do automated tests help to dramatically shorten the release cycle, they also create the freedom to “just run all the tests for a moment” - the possibility of receiving support from a quality assurance expert who is neither tired, slow nor corruptible, even during ongoing development.

The Procedure of Automated Tests

To ensure that the test automation project is a success, the following steps can provide orientation. I am of course happy to support you with the project.

1. Selection of the Test Cases to be Automated

Recurring tasks should be automated, which includes not only the testing itself, but also the setup and data enrichment of the test environment. With careful planning, the most important test cases to be automated are targeted, which on the one hand brings immediate relief and on the other hand increases acceptance in the team through feedback effects.

2. Selection of the right Test Automation Tools

The choice of tools is at least as important as the choice of test cases. If the aim is to work closely with the specialist department, Cucumber / Gherkin can provide useful support. If the test team tends to work autonomously, a solution that does not abstract the technical view should be preferred in order to increase maintainability. Tools such as Playwright for user interfaces or Appium for smartphone apps can be used, but also XCTest, for example, if it is purely about the quality assurance of an iOS app. In any case, the decision should not be made lightly based on an affinity for a particular framework, but should always keep the big picture in mind.

3. Development and Implementation of Test Cases

The development of robust and maintainable tests describes the main part of the work in the implementation. It should be constantly kept in mind which elements can be reused sensibly in order to limit the duplication of code to a reasonable extent. The Page Object Model (POM) can be a help here because it encapsulates the logic of “finding” UI elements from the actual code and thus makes them maintainable in a central location.

4. Integration into the CI/CD Pipeline

The (optional) integration of test automation into the build process ensures that the tests are carried out with every change and that errors are detected at an early stage. The decision as to whether the test step is a mandatory part of the build, i.e. whether a failing test stops the build itself, must be made on a case-by-case basis and from team to team. If acceptance is not yet given, it can make sense to make the test step optional at first to avoid frustration and resentment.

5. Maintenance and Optimization of the Tests

Automated tests must be regularly reviewed and adapted to keep pace with software development.

Best Practices for Successful Test Automation

In my many years of working with a wide variety of automation solutions, I have found a couple of best practices. Some of them are:

Focus on the Right Tests

Not every test should be automated. Focus on tests that are often repeated or cover critical functionalities.

Use of Page Object Models (POM) for UI Tests

This architecture facilitates the maintenance and reusability of test scripts.

Test Data Management

Safe, consistent and realistic test data ensures reliable test results.

Combination of Manual and Automated Tests

Automation supplements, but does not replace all manual tests. Exploratory tests should continue to be carried out manually, because detecting “pixel errors”, for example, is not one of the strengths of test automation. Enabling these effects by machine is possible, but is very unfavorable in terms of maintenance in relation to the costs.

Continuous Maintenance of the Test Suites

Test automation is not a one-off process - regular updates and adjustments are required.

Challenges in Test Automation

High Initial Implementation Effort

Problem: Automation initially requires time and resources.

Solution: Gradual introduction and prioritization of the most important tests.

Maintenance Effort for Test Cases

Problem: Changes to the software can invalidate tests.

Solution: Use of robust frameworks and regular adaptation of the tests.

False Test Results (False Positives/Negatives)

Problem: Automated tests can deliver unexpected results.

Solution: Regular validation and improvement of the tests.

Complexity (especially) for UI tests

Problem: Changes to the front end can make tests unusable.

Solution: Use of stable selectors and POM methodology. Joint responsibility of frontend and QA team for the page objects.

Flakiness

Problem: Tests fail “sometimes”, but work most of the time.

Solution: This is the biggest problem of test automation as a concept, so there is no trivial answer. Speaking error messages, “screenshot on failure” and a debugger-compatible solution are essential.

Conclusion

A well thought-out test concept is essential for the successful quality assurance of software. It ensures structured test execution, minimizes risks and helps to identify errors at an early stage. Software projects can be implemented more successfully with a clear test strategy, efficient planning and regular adaptation of the test concept. Among the downloads, I have linked a slimmed-down version that can be rolled out immediately. This deliberately does not contain all the elements listed here because it is intended to represent a starting point and not the state that can ultimately be achieved. I am happy to answer any questions and help with implementation.

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I am Max and since more than a decade I find Bugs that could cost a lot of money.

Get to know me easily