Demystifying Automation Testing: Everything You Need to Know

Automation testing refers to the process of using specialised software tools and scripts to test the performance of software automatically without requiring manual intervention. It revolves around creating and executing test cases that imitate user actions, checking the results, and comparing them with the expected outcomes.

It improves speed, efficiency, and accuracy, reduces manual efforts, and enables the execution of repetitive tests without any additional costs. It increases our test coverage, which otherwise remains unattended when opting for Manual testing.

Manual testing is when we do not use any kind of tool to test the performance of the software. It involves a human tester who creates code, tests the software, and gives the final report about its performance.

Automation testing involves the use of automation tools to test the performance of the software.

Below is a comparative analysis of both forms of testing.

Humans are susceptible to mistakes, especially when the concerned software is lengthy. This is where automation testing has us covered.

Following are the scenarios where automation testing proves to be a saviour:

Real-time feedback

Automating the testing process enables better collaboration among all the stakeholders, i.e., coders, designers, and testers. Thus, there is instant clarity as to which aspect of the software needs to be worked on.

Time-saving

Manual testing involves writing test scripts, which is time-consuming, especially in the case of regression testing, as it involves running the same test cases multiple times. Also, it is prone to errors. Automation testing reduces the possibility of all such scenarios creeping into the picture as it enables testers to detect bugs during the early stages of software development.

Reusable test scripts

Once written, the scripts can be used repeatedly with minimal, or sometimes even no, changes.

Flexibility of tests

Contrary to manual testing, automation testing doesn’t require testers to be physically present in their workspace. The tests can be scheduled in advance, and they are thus conducted at their scheduled time. Once the test is run, testers receive the test reports.

Simultaneous test execution

In the case of manual testing, at a given time we can execute one test case only on one system, whereas automation testing allows us to execute one test case simultaneously on a number of systems (devices, OS, or browsers).

Higher ROI

Automation testing eventually guarantees a higher return on investment as it doesn’t include human intervention in the execution of the tests and saves time and money with every run.

Before we decide to opt for automation testing, it is imperative to know what types of automation testing are available out there. This ensures that we are well-informed about the type of testing that aligns with our requirements and would produce the desired results.

The following are the most common types of automation testing available out there:

Functional Testing

Functional testing evaluates the software based on functional parameters. Basically, it revolves around what the software does and involves black-box testing.

Blackbox testing is also known as behavioural testing, and it is mainly about checking the performance of the elements without deep-diving into their inner structure and design.

Unit testing, integration testing, and smoke testing fall under this category.

Unit Testing

Unit testing is basically testing the individual components of the software to ensure they are working properly.

It is usually done in the development phase by the developers themselves and before integration testing. In fact, it is one of the first automation tests to be done on an application.

In this way, they help us identify bugs early and thus keep the costs of debugging as low as possible.

Integration Testing

As the name clearly suggests, it enters the picture after unit testing.

Where unit testing is about checking the performance of all the units in isolation, integration testing deals with ensuring that all the units combined together function properly as a system.

There are different approaches to integration testing, namely the big-bang approach, the top-down approach, the bottom-up approach, and the sandwich approach.

Smoke Testing

It is also known as Build Verification Testing and Confidence Testing. It is basically a set of tests that evaluate the stability of the build of the software.

It is a crucial stage of the process that decides whether the build is fit to go through further rounds of testing or should be shelved due to a lack of functionality. If the latter happens, the application is sent back to the development team for further modification.

It is typically done by QA engineers.

Non-functional Testing

If functional testing can be defined as 'what the software does', non-functional testing can be defined as 'how well does the software do it?'

It is basically testing all the non-functional aspects of the software, such as performance, reliability, and usability.

It usually follows functional testing.

Performance testing is one type of non-functional testing.

Performance Testing

Performance testing basically deals with testing the speed, stability, and responsiveness of the software under load.

Its main aim is to guarantee end-user satisfaction before the software is released in the market to ensure its success.

Regression Testing

It mainly falls under the maintenance testing category.

It is when the software is made to go through back-to-back functional and non-functional tests to ensure it is performing in a similar manner even after incorporating some changes in the code.

If it's not, the software is said to have regressed.

Keyword-driven Testing

Keyword-driven testing is an approach to test automation where test cases are designed and executed based on keywords or actions.

It involves creating a test framework that uses a set of predefined keywords to define test steps and expected outcomes. Testers can combine these keywords to create reusable test cases, enabling easier maintenance and scalability of test suites.

This technique provides a higher level of abstraction, making test cases more readable and understandable for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Data-driven Testing

Data-driven testing is a testing approach where test cases are designed to be executed with multiple sets of data. The test cases are separated from the test data, which is usually stored in external files or databases. The test script or framework reads the test data and performs the same set of test steps with each dataset, allowing for efficient testing of multiple scenarios and variations.

This approach is particularly useful for testing boundary conditions, different input combinations, and large datasets, enabling comprehensive and thorough testing of software applications.

The automation testing life cycle refers to the sequence of steps in executing automated tests. It consists of the following stages:

Test Planning

This is the first step where the automation testing goals and objectives are defined and the scope of the automation is determined. Test requirements, automation tools, environments, and resources are planned.

Test Design

In this step, test cases and test scripts are designed. Test scenarios and test data are created, and automation frameworks or libraries are developed.

This step is focused on maximising test coverage and ensuring that the automation script aligns with the test objectives.

Test Development

Automation scripts or code are developed based on the test design. The scripts are implemented using the selected automation tool or programming language. Test data and variables are incorporated into the scripts, and necessary validations and assertions are added to verify expected outcomes.

Test Execution

Automation scripts are executed during this step. The test environment is set up, and the scripts are run against the application under test. Test results and logs are generated, capturing the details of the test execution. Any issues or defects encountered are reported for further analysis and resolution.

Test Reporting

Test results, logs, and metrics are compiled and analysed in this stage.

Test reports are generated to provide insights into the overall test execution, including the pass/fail status, test coverage, and any defects found.

The reports help stakeholders assess the quality of the software and make informed decisions based on the test outcomes.

Test Maintenance

Automation scripts require maintenance to keep them up-to-date as the application evolves.

Changes to the application, such as new features or enhancements, may require updates to the automation scripts. Maintenance also includes fixing any script failures, refining test scenarios, and incorporating feedback for continuous improvement.

Throughout the automation testing life cycle, continuous collaboration, monitoring, and refinement of the test strategy and test cases are essential to ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of the automation effort.

Automation testing tools are software applications that help in designing, executing, and managing automated test cases. These tools provide various functionalities and features to streamline the automation testing process.

They have user-friendly interfaces and support different programming languages.

Automation testing tools provide a range of functionalities such as test script creation, test data management, test execution, result analysis, and reporting.

They improve testing efficiency, accuracy, and scalability by automating repetitive tasks, reducing manual effort, and facilitating faster test execution.

Following are some of the popular automation testing tools:

Selenium

Selenium is an open-source (free) automation testing tool. Selenium test scripts can be created using multiple programming languages like Python, Java, and C#. Selenium testing is when we use selenium testing tools to test our software.

It is not a single tool but a set of software where each software fulfils different needs of software testing for an organisation. This set includes tools such as Selenium Integrated Development Environment (IDE), Selenium Remote Control (RC), WebDriver, and Selenium Grid.

Currently, Selenium RC and WebDriver together comprise Selenium 2, whereas Selenium 1 refers to Selenium RC alone.

Appium

Appium is an open-source automation testing tool.

It supports various programming languages like Java, Python, and C#. It is specifically designed for mobile applications, which facilitates the testing of applications across different platforms like Android, iOS, and Windows.

TestComplete

TestComplete is a comprehensive automation testing tool designed to automate the testing of desktop, web, and mobile applications. It supports testing across different platforms like Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Test scripts can be created using multiple programming languages like Python, Java, and C#.

An automation testing framework is a set of guidelines, incorporating both practises and tools, that helps QA professionals test more efficiently.

They often include coding standards, test-data handling methods, object repositories, processes for storing test results, or information on how to access external resources.

Though it is not mandatory to strictly follow them, there are several benefits to following a testing framework, such as Improved test efficiency, lower maintenance costs, minimal manual intervention, maximum test coverage, and reusability of code.

Moreover, proceeding in an organised fashion prevents us from missing out on any important aspect crucial to the functioning of the software.

Following are the six types of test automation frameworks:

Linear automation framework

In a linear automation framework, testers target a particular functionality of the software to be tested. Once the test is run, it proceeds to test the next in the sequence. This process includes capturing all the tests, like navigation, inputs, etc., and playing them back repeatedly to conduct the test.

Modular-based testing framework

The modular testing framework is basically about dividing the entire testing process into different modules, functions, or units. Each module focuses on testing a specific aspect of the application. These are then carried out in isolation and eventually combined to cover the complete testing application.

Library architecture testing framework

The library architecture framework identifies similar tasks within test scripts and groups them by function. These parts are focused on common objectives. Then these functions are stored in a library sorted by their objectives, and test scripts call upon this library to obtain different functionality when testing.

Data-driven framework

It is an ideal testing framework where the same internal logic needs to be tested on different datasets.

In this framework, values in the form of inputs and outputs are passed as parameters to the test scripts from external data sources, such as databases.

Keyword-driven framework

The keyword-driven framework separates data and logic by storing both externally. It utilises keywords associated with actions to test the GUI, referencing them during test execution. Users prompt keyword-based actions through code, which triggers the corresponding script in the test.

Hybrid testing framework

A hybrid testing framework isn’t a defined framework but a combination of the previously mentioned frameworks.

As the software domain is evolving, opting for one particular framework might not necessarily cater to all our testing needs. Thus, this framework leverages the advantages of all the other frameworks while mitigating their disadvantages.

Each of these frameworks has its own architecture, advantages, and limitations. It is important to proceed with the framework that suits us best when carving out a testing plan.

In conclusion, automation testing is a powerful approach that can significantly improve the software development process. It offers the potential to reduce testing time, increase accuracy, and enhance overall productivity. By embracing automation testing, organisations can achieve better software quality, a faster time to market, and higher customer satisfaction.

With the ever-increasing demand for software applications, there is a growing need for automation testing professionals. As businesses continue to adopt automation testing, there will be a continuous demand for experts who can design, develop, and maintain automation scripts.

Therefore, pursuing a career in automation testing is a wise choice for individuals who are looking for a stable and fulfilling career.

With NxtWave, you can learn directly from the alumni of IITs and professionals from top MNCs such as Microsoft and Amazon, work on real-time industry projects, and get doubt clarification from 9 AM - 9 PM everyday. Regardless of your educational background, you can embark upon a high-paying testing job within five months of the commencement of the Automation testing course.

Book a live demo for free and get ready to land your first software job as a QA engineer.

1. How to learn automation testing?

You can learn automation testing by following a roadmap:

• Prepare the prerequisites, such as basic programming concepts, software development processes, and testing methodologies.
• Choose a programming language from the popular ones, such as Java, Python, or C#.
• Explore automation testing tools like Selenium, Appium, or TestComplete.
• Refer to reputable online sources. You can also consider NxtWave’s Automation testing course with placement support.
• Last but not least, keep yourself updated with the latest trends and advancements in the industry.

2. What is the difference between manual testing and automation testing?

Manual testing Involves human testers manually executing test cases and observing and verifying software behaviour. It is time-consuming, resource-intensive, and prone to human errors and subjectivity. However, it offers flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to evaluate software from a user perspective.

Automation testing refers to the process of using specialised software tools and scripts to test software automatically without manual intervention. It improves the efficiency, accuracy, and repeatability of test execution. It also enables the execution of a large number of test cases, broader test coverage, and regression testing with consistent conditions.

3. Does QA automation require coding?

Though automation testing tools provide user-friendly interfaces, it is usually beneficial to have knowledge of at least one programming language for QA automation testers. Some popular programming languages to choose from are Java, Python, C#, and Ruby.

4. Is QA automation easy to learn?

Despite seeming intimidating initially, with patience and dedication, it can be easily learned like any other skill. The only requirement is following the right framework and using credible sources.

NxtWave's Automation testing course with placement support has training from seasoned industry experts. This course includes real-time projects. It is also designed to be beginner-friendly and suitable for students with zero coding knowledge.

Avail additional scholarships up to Rs.16,000. Book a live demo for free to learn more.