How does Automated Software Testing work?

Automation testing is a process where test automation tools are used to execute scripted sequences. Testing tools help in software execution, analyzing report outcomes and comparing results with earlier test runs. The testing process is simplified, and the test execution is carried out rapidly through the test automation platform. The shortcomings of manual testing are competently worked out by test automation. In this article, you will learn the steps required to make automated testing work.

What is automated software testing?

It is software automated testing technique that uses specific automation testing tools so that a test case suite can be executed appropriately. The automation testing software enters the test data into the System under test, and then the actual and expected results are compared, and detailed test reports are generated. Those testing tasks that are mundane and repetitive can be effectively taken care of by the automation testing process.

Following are the five steps required to make the automated software testing work:

1. Selecting the correct test tool: To select the correct test tool, the application under test that is built on the specific technology should be taken into consideration. For instance, Informatica is not supported by QTP; hence Informatica applications cannot be tested using the QTP tool. Selecting the right tool is essential for carrying out software automated testing efficiently.  

 

2. The scope of automation should be appropriately defined: The specific area of the Application Under Test that needs to be automated is appropriately defined. Following are a few key points that need to be considered while determining the scope:

·       The specific features that are relatively important

·       Those scenarios that have vast amounts of data

·       The complexity of test cases and the technical feasibility

·       Same test cases are being used for cross-browser testing

·       Reusing business components.

3. Developing an automation strategy: Following are the key factors that need to be considered:

·     Designing the framework and ascertaining its features

·     Analyzing the in-scope and out-of-scope items of automation

·     Preparing the automation testbed

·     The scripting and execution process should have a proper timeframe and schedule

·     The deliverables related to automation testing.

4. Executing tests: In this step, automation scripts are executed. Scripts need input test data before they are set to run. Detailed test reports are provided once they are executed. The automation tool can perform the execution directly, or a test management tool can be used to invoke the tool.

For example, a quality center is a test management tool that can be used to invoke QTP so that automation scripts can be executed. A single machine or a group of machines can be used to execute the scripts.

5. Maintenance of test automation activities: In this step, the new functionalities that might have been added to the code are checked to ensure they are working fine or not.

The execution of the maintenance aspect in automation testing takes place when new automation scripts are being added and need to be maintained and reviewed. The goal is also to ensure the automation script’s effectiveness is improved with each successive release cycle.

The strategic need to perform automated software testing:

Following are the specific reasons that justify the strategic need to perform automation testing;

·       The speed of test execution is rapidly increased

·       Enhanced test coverage

·       Test automation process can be performed for long-lasting hours continually at fixed timeframes when compared to manual testing, where testers can only work for a specific number of hours on a daily basis

Conclusion: If you are looking forward to implementing test automation for your specific project, get connected with a world-class software testing services company that will provide you with a detailed testing roadmap that aligns with your project-specific requirements.