What is Automated Testing and How Does it Work?

The platform of automated testing is known for providing effective and accurate testing activities. Repetitive and time-consuming testing tasks can be easily automated and can free up manual testers' time to a considerable extent, who can, in turn, focus on other crucial testing tasks that may require manual intervention. Test automation tools further enhance the performance of automation testing. In this article, you will get to know about automated testing and how it works.

What is automated testing?

It is a software testing method that automates the process of assessing the software functionality and thus making sure it meets requirements before it is released into production. Specific software tests can be run at a faster pace by an organization through the automated testing services platform. For large or repetitive test cases, automated testing is well-suited. Scripted sequences are used and executed by test automation tools.

The software is verified by automated testing tools, outcomes are reported and results are compared with earlier test runs. The creation of an automated test script can be done once and then can be used repeatedly. Automated tests can be applied to a broad range of cases such as regression testing, application programming interface (API) and unit testing. Much of the manual testing efforts are simplified by the test automation platform into a set of scripts.

Following are the five steps required to carry out the automated test process:

1. Ascertaining the right tools/framework: The team should initiate the test automation process by taking into consideration the specific test automation framework and/or tools that can be used. Depending upon the project scope and requirements, specific tools can be selected. Appium, TestComplete, Cucumber, Ranorex, UFT, WebDriver, Selenium IDE etc., are some of the popular test automation tools that can be leveraged.

There are both open-source and commercial tools available in the market and most of the tools come with training aids. Hence, the team should select the right automation tool (or) tools that can justify the project requirements. A company specializing in automated testing services can also provide strategic solutions.

2. The scope of automation needs to be established: Following are a few key factors that should be taken into consideration:

· The test complexity: The complexity of tests should be assessed so that only the relevant tests can be considered for automation

· Considering business and resource components: The availability of resources should be considered in terms of personnel and tools.

3. Developing a plan for carrying out the testing process: The following are a few key factors that should be taken into consideration:

· Consider designing the framework: A well-defined test automation framework should be developed so that the testing process can be carried out effectively

· Defining the features: The functionalities and features need to be clearly defined that will be covered by the automation tests

· Setting specific goals: The outcome of the testing effort can be expected by the articulation of clearly defined goals

· Creating timelines: A detailed timeline should be developed for scripting and executing test cases by collaborating with the development team

· Defining the scope: The automation scope should be clearly defined.

4. Carrying out the execution process: After selecting the right tools and carrying out the plan of action, the initiation of the execution process comes into perspective. Developers should be able to use the tool's user interface and APIs and carry out the necessary coding process.

5. The significance of maintenance: The test scripts should remain up-to-date and subsequent test runs should be carried out as and when required. Maintenance activity can be carried out in a streamlined manner by a professional automated services company.

Conclusion: If you are looking forward to implementing automation testing for your specific project, then do get connected with a well established software testing services company that will provide you with tactical testing solutions and in-depth advice that are in line with your project specific requirements.

About the author: I am a technical content writer focused on writing technology specific articles. I strive to provide well-researched information on the leading market savvy technologies.