Automation Testing Tutorial: What is Automated Testing?

Automation Testing Tutorial: Understanding What Automated Testing Is, Its Features and Levels

Digitalization and globalization of business processes have lowered the role of IT specialists in the testing process. Automated software testing, a process that employs software tools to execute test cases automatically, highlights its efficiency in replacing manual testing. This method helps to check repetitive tasks automatically. A QA engineer must have good programming skills to create automated tests in Python, C#, or Java.

So what is automation testing in software testing? This term means simultaneous testing of several scenarios. The program is checked at different levels: code (unit tests and integration testing), API (if any), and GUI (user interface). Let’s analyze each type in more detail.

Introduction to Automated Testing

Automated testing is a software testing technique that automates the process of validating the functionality of software and ensures it meets requirements before being released into production. Automated testing uses scripted sequences executed by testing tools to examine the software, report outcomes, and compare results with earlier test runs. This approach significantly reduces the manual effort involved in testing, allowing QA teams to focus on more complex and critical aspects of the project.

In the realm of software testing, automated testing plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the testing process. By leveraging automated testing tools, teams can execute repetitive and time-consuming tests quickly and accurately, ensuring that the software is robust and free of defects. This not only speeds up the development cycle but also improves the overall quality of the software product.

What is Automated Testing?

Automated testing is a technique used to automate the execution of tests and compare actual test results with predicted or expected results. It is used to execute test cases automatically, reducing manual effort and increasing efficiency. Automated testing is essential in software development to ensure the quality and reliability of software applications.

By automating the testing process, teams can run multiple test scenarios simultaneously, covering a wide range of use cases and conditions. This comprehensive approach helps in identifying bugs and issues early in the development cycle, allowing for timely fixes and improvements. Automated testing also ensures consistency in test execution, as the same test scripts can be reused across different builds and versions of the software.

Benefits of Automated Testing

Automated testing can boost a QA team’s efficiency. Benefits of automating the testing process include:

• Reduced manual effort: Automated tests can run unattended, freeing up testers to focus on more strategic tasks.

• Increased speed: Automated tests execute much faster than manual tests, enabling quicker feedback and faster release cycles.

• Improved accuracy: Automated tests eliminate human errors, ensuring more reliable and consistent test results.

• Enhanced reporting capabilities: Automated testing tools generate detailed reports, providing insights into test outcomes and helping in decision-making.

• Reusability of test scripts: Once created, test scripts can be reused across different projects and test cycles, saving time and effort.

Automated testing helps staff to avoid manual tests where possible and instead focus on other project priorities. Automated testing helps a team quickly find bugs in the early stages of development, which can reduce working hours and project costs. By integrating automated testing into the development process, teams can achieve higher productivity, better quality software, and faster time-to-market.

Graphical user interface testing

Graphical User Interface (GUI) testing focuses on validating the display and functionality from the user’s perspective. Automation testing tools are crucial for efficient GUI testing, with popular tools like Selenium enhancing accuracy and speed in the testing cycle. The GUI employs frameworks that enable the simulation of actions such as mouse clicks and keystrokes, and subsequently, the assessment of the program’s response. This process is often automated using scripts, making it an essential part of any automation testing tutorial. Understanding GUI testing is crucial when learning about automated testing and helps in answering the question, “What is automated testing?” as it demonstrates how automated tools interact with and test the visual elements of an application. The operation of the browser is imitated with various tools:

• simple ones: sending HTTP requests and parsing HTML code;

• advanced: using a browser engine in “headless” mode, for example, PhantomJS;

• complex: using drivers to control the browser, such as Selenium.

Code-driven testing

Testing one piece of code separately from the rest of the program (unit tests). This is done using classes like mocks and stubs. A test automation framework plays a crucial role in maintaining consistency and reusability in code-driven testing. When testing, they block access to the database and disk, helping to validate the required function. Unit tests are suitable for code that has logic rather than many calls to other classes.

Integration tests are used to test particular elements of the system that contain modules. For example, actions with a post on a web page. When a post is saved, it appears in the database with tags and 0 comments. Adding a comment changes the value to 1.

Testing API

Testing interfaces that provide interaction with users or other digital products using special programs is crucial. Test automation plays a vital role in implementing structured strategies for consistent and reliable API testing. If the application has an API (Application Programming Interface), it can be checked by sending previously generated requests and comparing the response with the previous one.

For those looking to delve deeper, an automation testing tutorial can provide detailed insights into this process. Additionally, understanding the fundamentals of what is automated testing will help in grasping how APIs are systematically verified for performance and reliability.

Levels of Automated Testing

Automated testing can be applied at various levels, including unit testing, integration testing, and system testing. Each level serves a specific purpose and helps in validating different aspects of the software.

• Unit Testing: Focuses on testing individual units of code, such as functions or methods, in isolation.

• Integration Testing: Validates the interaction between different modules or components of the software.

• System Testing: Ensures that the entire system works as expected, covering end-to-end scenarios.

By applying automated testing at these different levels, teams can ensure comprehensive coverage and thorough validation of the software, leading to higher quality and more reliable products.

Unit Testing

Unit testing is a type of automated testing that focuses on testing individual units of code, such as functions or methods. Unit tests are designed to validate the smallest possible unit of code and test it in isolation from the rest of the system.

Unit testing is an essential part of automated testing, as it helps to ensure that individual components of the software are working correctly before they are integrated into the larger system. By testing individual units of code, developers can identify and fix bugs early in the development process, reducing the overall cost and time required for testing.

Automated unit tests feature multiple test cases that can be run as each line of code is written. This approach helps to ensure that the software is reliable, stable, and meets the required standards.

Some of the key benefits of unit testing include:

• Improved code quality: By catching bugs early, unit testing helps maintain high code quality.

• Reduced debugging time: Early detection of issues reduces the time spent on debugging later in the development cycle.

• Increased confidence in the software: Knowing that individual units work correctly boosts confidence in the overall system.

• Faster development cycles: Automated unit tests speed up the development process by providing quick feedback.

By incorporating unit testing into the automated testing process, developers can ensure that their software is reliable, efficient, and meets the required standards. This proactive approach to testing helps in delivering high-quality software products that meet user expectations and business requirements.

Candidates for Automation: Types of Testing including Regression Testing

• Regression. Regression testing is crucial for verifying that recent updates or bug fixes do not negatively impact previously functional parts of the software. Assumes running tests regularly. Automation reduces the time to complete identical test cases. Typically, scenarios are developed based on manual checks with successful results on identified defects. This approach is especially effective for services that require regular updates.

• Localization testing. Allows you to adapt a digital product to the national differences of each country. Includes adaptation of signs, units of measure, currency, time zone, and other components. Automation helps to speed up the testing of the required interface elements.

• Load. Determines the ability of an application to keep operating at an acceptable load. Automation of this testing type allows you to get results faster and reduce tool costs.

• Cross-browser and cross-platform. Verifies the operation of an application or website in different browsers and platforms. Automated testing involves a virtual machine and specialized online services. These methods make the process more versatile.

• Stressful. Shows how fast the application reacts to excessive loads. An automated approach helps to detect memory problems to capture the behavior of a digital product.

6 stages of automated testing

1. Choosing a test automation tool

When choosing an automated testing tool for automation testing, the options depend on the development technologies being used. It is crucial to select the right tool tailored to specific testing needs. For example, QTP does not support Informatica. If a mobile application is being tested, the tool must execute appropriate scripts. For instance, Selenium is suitable for web applications, while tools like Ranorex Studio, Applium, Calabash, or Kobiton are ideal for products on Android and iOS.

Understanding the intricacies of each tool is essential. Selenium, for example, is an open-source tool that supports multiple browsers and operating systems, making it highly versatile for web applications. On the other hand, Ranorex Studio offers a comprehensive suite for desktop, web, and mobile applications, providing robust features for UI testing.

For mobile-specific testing, Applium is widely used for its ability to automate native, hybrid, and mobile web applications across both Android and iOS platforms. Calabash, though less commonly used today, offers excellent support for Cucumber, making it a good choice for behavior-driven development (BDD). Kobiton, with its cloud-based approach, allows testers to run scripts on real devices, enhancing the accuracy of test results.

For those new to this process, an automation testing tutorial can be incredibly beneficial in understanding how to select and use these tools effectively. Additionally, knowing what is automated testing helps in comprehending the importance of choosing the right tool for your specific testing needs. Tutorials and courses can guide you through the setup, execution, and analysis of automated tests, ensuring a thorough understanding of each tool’s capabilities and best practices.

Requirements and preliminary results should be determined using the Proof of Concept of Tool.

The selected tool must be checked for the following points:

• Identification and display of objects;

• Support for environments, frameworks, and various testing types;

• A mechanism for generating reports on tests and results;

• Cost and complexity of personnel training;

• Database testing and error recovery.

2. Determine the scope of automation

A company may work on several applications, but it is not necessary to use automatic methods for each. The software product should be in the early stages of its life cycle and have manual testing reports. Regression detection requires a stable application and test cases. The team will run scripts on every build to detect errors automatically. A test automation tool plays a crucial role in executing these scripts, improving the efficiency of the testing process.

The main thing is distinguishing the piece of code to be tested. It should be selected considering business functions, technical implementation capabilities, scenarios with a large database, and the complexity of test cases. Additionally, understanding what is automated testing will help in making informed decisions about which parts of the application should be automated. An automation testing tutorial can provide valuable insights into defining the scope of automation effectively, ensuring that the selected tests are those that will benefit most from automation.

Focusing on high-priority areas such as frequently used features, critical business processes, and areas prone to errors can optimize the automation efforts. It’s also essential to consider the maintainability of the automated tests and the resources required to develop and execute them. By carefully determining the scope of automation, companies can achieve more efficient and reliable testing processes.

3. Creation of a platform for automation

A framework is a set of rules and script planning. There are several types of them: linear, hybrid, data-driven, keyword-driven, and modular. They help improve test structure, enhance reusability, and reduce both maintenance and employee training costs. An automation testing tutorial can offer step-by-step guidance on setting up and using these frameworks effectively.

Selecting an appropriate automation tool is crucial for the testing process. Consider the technologies your application is built on, the types of tests you need to perform, and the skills of your team. An automation testing tutorial can guide you through the features and benefits of different tools, ensuring you make an informed decision.

An automation architect develops a framework based on the project’s purposes. The main task is to provide automation of software product testing for as long as possible. This means that when updating some application functions, the scripts do not need to be changed. Understanding what is automated testing is crucial in this context, as it helps in designing frameworks that are robust and adaptable to changes. Sergey AlmyashevCOO, ZappleTech Inc. Linear frameworks are the simplest, suitable for small projects with straightforward testing needs. Hybrid frameworks combine the best features of various types, offering flexibility and comprehensive test coverage. Data-driven frameworks separate test data from scripts, enabling the same script to run with multiple data sets. Keyword-driven frameworks use keywords to represent actions, making scripts more readable and easier to maintain. Modular frameworks break down applications into smaller, manageable modules, enhancing reusability.

Creating a robust platform for automation involves selecting the right framework that aligns with the project’s requirements and future-proofing the testing processes. This approach not only streamlines testing but also significantly reduces the time and effort needed for maintenance, making the overall testing process more efficient and reliable.

4. Planning and developing a strategy

The implementation plan includes selected tools, wireframe forms, stands and automation elements, the schedule and time of the scenarios, and the expected results. Understanding what is automated testing helps in formulating a comprehensive strategy that addresses all these components effectively.

The main thing is the choice of the environment for implementing scripts. It contains the operating system, browser, and other details. For example, if you want to test your website in Chrome and Microsoft Edge, the script must run in each browser. An automation testing tutorial can provide practical guidance on setting up these environments and ensuring compatibility across different platforms.

When planning, the executor must be indicated. Companies do it differently: they may involve developers to execute scripts, gather a separate team to implement them, or run the tests automatically. The strategy should outline the roles and responsibilities clearly to avoid confusion and ensure smooth execution.

Additionally, the strategy should consider the scalability of the automation efforts. It is important to determine how the automation framework will handle increasing test cases as the application grows. This includes planning for the maintenance of test scripts and ensuring that the framework can be easily updated to accommodate new features and functionalities.

Risk management is another critical aspect of the strategy. Identifying potential risks and developing mitigation plans can help in addressing issues proactively. This includes analyzing the impact of test failures and ensuring there are fallback mechanisms in place.

By thoroughly planning and developing a strategy, companies can optimize their automation testing efforts, leading to more efficient and reliable testing processes. This approach not only enhances the quality of the software but also reduces the time and cost associated with manual testing.

5. Scripting and Testing

Once the tools and frameworks have been prepared, scripting may be started. Test automation tools are essential for reducing human error, running tests more quickly, and improving reporting and analysis of test results. The source code should be displayed in the version management system, along with a history of the changes. When writing scripts, relevant programming practices are used. An automation testing tutorial can provide detailed instructions on best practices for scripting and integrating version control.

As a rule, automation scripts are based on test data. This means that the scripts are designed to run with various data sets to ensure comprehensive testing coverage. Understanding what is automated testing helps in appreciating the importance of using realistic and diverse test data to simulate different user scenarios effectively.

Another advantage of automation is that test reports are generated by the tool, and the results are sent to email without specialist intervention. This automation of reporting ensures that stakeholders are promptly informed about the test outcomes, enabling quicker decision-making and issue resolution.

When scripting, it is important to follow modular and reusable coding practices. This involves breaking down test scripts into smaller, manageable functions that can be reused across different test cases. This not only improves the maintainability of the scripts but also reduces the effort required to update them when the application changes.

Additionally, it is essential to implement error-handling mechanisms within the scripts. This ensures that the scripts can gracefully handle unexpected issues and continue execution without manual intervention. A comprehensive automation testing tutorial can provide examples of effective error-handling techniques and best practices. Automated tests need maintenance to remain effective. Regularly review your test scripts to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest application changes. Incorporate feedback from manual testing and real-world usage to continually refine and improve your automated tests. This proactive approach ensures your tests remain relevant and reliable.Mikhail BodnarchukCDO, ZappleTech Inc. Regularly reviewing and refactoring the scripts is also a key aspect of maintaining the automation framework. This involves periodically checking the scripts for improvements and ensuring they adhere to the latest coding standards and practices.

By following these guidelines, the scripting and testing process can be streamlined, leading to more reliable and efficient automated testing efforts. This ultimately enhances the quality of the software and reduces the time and resources required for manual testing.

6. Script Maintenance

The main goal of script maintenance is to test new features added to a digital product. Technical support is necessary to maintain the effectiveness of updated automation scripts. Understanding what is automated testing is crucial in this context, as it involves continuously adapting the scripts to reflect changes in the application. A reliable framework reduces the probability of a maintenance call, ensuring that the automation process remains efficient and effective.

Script maintenance becomes necessary when the application is transformed, such as adding new functionalities or altering existing ones. The scripts are updated based on changes in the code, ensuring the smooth functioning of the software product. For example, if the application needs to support another language, such as German, the framework should allow quick script updates to ensure stable operation and effortless customization. An automation testing tutorial can provide practical examples and guidelines on how to effectively manage and update scripts to accommodate such changes.

Maintaining the scripts also involves regularly reviewing them to identify any redundant or outdated code. This ensures that the scripts remain efficient and do not slow down the testing process. Additionally, incorporating automated notifications for script failures or issues can help in promptly addressing and resolving problems, thereby maintaining the reliability of the automation framework.

Another critical aspect of script maintenance is ensuring that the test data remains relevant and up-to-date. This involves regularly updating the data sets used in the scripts to reflect any changes in the application’s functionality or user scenarios. An automation testing tutorial can offer insights into best practices for managing and updating test data effectively.

By focusing on these maintenance activities, companies can ensure that their automated testing efforts continue to provide accurate and reliable results, ultimately enhancing the quality and stability of their software products.

Key Features of Automated Testing:

• Reliability. Provides error-free results, as the human factor is eliminated.

• Regularity. Runs test cases continuously over a long period, checking each build of the target system.

• Speed. Testing is provided automatically, so it is much faster.

• Benefit. Saves time and effort of the project team, improves the quality of the developed functionality.

• Versatility. Implies re-running of tests in several steps.

• Relevance. Raises the status of an IT company for customers because such technologies ensure professional development and following global trends.

• Monetization. Benefits when the created tests are used as products of intellectual activity. The customer can buy technologies for the independent development of the project.

Automated Testing Tutorial: The Signal to Action

When all the steps are completed, it is necessary to define the basic metrics for analyzing the success of the validation. These include error rate, minimum time to release, customer satisfaction index, and employee performance improvement. Understanding what is automated testing helps in setting these metrics appropriately, ensuring they align with the overall goals of the testing process.

Automated testing technologies make it easier to test stable systems and can be combined with manual bug testing. This hybrid approach ensures comprehensive coverage and thorough validation of the software product. An automation testing tutorial can provide detailed guidance on how to effectively integrate automated and manual testing, maximizing the strengths of both approaches.

To achieve the best results, it is essential to continuously monitor and analyze the defined metrics. The error rate can indicate the effectiveness of the automated tests in identifying issues, while the minimum time to release helps in assessing the efficiency of the testing process. The customer satisfaction index provides insights into how well the product meets user expectations, and improvements in employee performance highlight the benefits of using automated testing tools.

Automated testing not only enhances the accuracy and reliability of tests but also significantly reduces the time and effort required for repetitive tasks. By leveraging these technologies, teams can focus more on exploratory testing and addressing complex issues that require human intuition and expertise.

We strive to use and improve automated testing technologies every day, ensuring that our systems remain robust and reliable. Are you ready to test a digital product with us? Dive into an automation testing tutorial to learn more about setting up your automated testing framework, understanding what is automated testing, and how it can transform your software validation process. Let’s ensure your digital product meets the highest standards of quality and performance.