Test automation forms a core part of every test project, and we approach test automation itself as a software development project, taking into account both current and future testing needs.
We recognize that the real benefits of test automation come downstream as an application evolves and must be repeatedly tested over time. To achieve these benefits, we believe that selecting the right test automation tool, test tool implementation methodology, test automation design approach, and test automation project methodology are key factors to ensure successful test automation projects.
Test automation is not a panacea for all software testing challenges; however, it is an important consideration in every test strategy, along with organizational readiness, test process maturity, and expertise in testing tools. We find that many organizations acquire a testing tool without first establishing the objectives, how test automation fits in with manual testing, and how to optimize the tool's use given the organization's test maturity level.
When designing a test automation suite, we consider its applicability across the IT portfolio, the need for ongoing maintenance, scalability and effectiveness of test execution.
Based on our deep experience automating software testing for our clients, we have developed a unique Test Automation Framework , which enables organizations to create software testing assets, frameworks and components that can be reused and leveraged across projects, thereby maximizing the value of test automation suites.
AUTOMATION FRAMEWORK BENEFITS
Automated testing further optimizes software quality and testing efficiency by delivering the following long-term advantages:
Reusability
Automated testing enables Quality Assurance [QA] to meet tight release schedules by reusing existing tests instead of starting from scratch with each new testing effort. Experience proves that reusable tests are run more frequently, enabling personnel to find and fix more errors earlier in the development process. This reusability benefit also enables QA to build libraries of repeatable test assets - in effect, transforming each test into intellectual property with long-term value.
Predictability and Consistency
With automation, QA can rerun a test with the utmost consistency. This is especially critical when development creates a new build. By running regression tests, QA can quickly verify that all pre-existing functionality still works in the new version and provide early feedback to development. Consistency also applies to the testing process itself. With a repeatable process for documenting test results, QA can reproduce and verify errors - speeding the resolution process.
Increased Productivity
Automated testing creates a high-productivity environment in which organizations can increase testing capacity without additional resources. With automation, for example, QA organizations can run tests unattended on a 24/7 basis, and test an application across multiple platforms, browsers and environments simultaneously. This frees up personnel to concentrate on other quality issues. The resulting productivity gains have the dual effect of shortening test cycles and increasing opportunities to optimize software quality.
|
