1. Decide which elements are good for automation. If the system runs multiple configurations that include the use of several different operating systems then automation is a handy choice. This is also true if the system requires a large data set, or if testing takes a long time. Performance tests are also welcoming places to use an automated testing strategy. Anytime you can save time and/or money may be a good place for automated testing.
2. Hire an automation engineer. Whether you decide to go with one engineer or a team, the contractors need to have strong experience in order to ensure a flawlessly executed testing procedure. Not only should the engineer know what case should be automated, but they should also have multiple tools handy and understand your goals.
3. Select the right automation tool. There are numerous solution tools for automated systems. The developer should be at least somewhat familiar with the type of automation that takes place. The tool should also include a set of data management features, so you don’t have to rely on a separate product for generations. And of course, the tool should run flawlessly in the background, while also providing stability.
4. Create an automation framework. Having a scalable framework is useful, especially since you will be reusing this framework in a variety of repeated automated testing. Compiling a data system of reports is also crucial in any automated task. Using tools such as Object Repository or adhering to the PageObjects model (POM), the automated framework is more organized and efficient in the long run.
5. Get your team up to speed. Obtaining regular reports from your team will help ensure good communication and emphasize the importance of the automation process. Helping your team by increasing their awareness and developing automation increases their confidence in knowing how to use it to their benefit.
6. Setting up the testing environment. This is a combination of software and hardware working together to create a cohesive system. All equipment requirements must be met, applications must be there, data information must be pulled, and consistent testing environment uses all benefit the system.
7. Have an execution plan in place. A systematic procedure for daily tasks, data pulling, and practices will help the development team in knowing what to do and what to expect.
8. Write scripts. Watch the most important flows on the system. This may be checkouts, login pages, etc. If the script is long, break it down into parts. Avoid writing if-statements, and write scripts isolated to help improve parallel testing.
9. Report the data. After gathering the results, look at them cohesively. Gain access to screenshots, logs, and any data captured while testing took place. And the graph and diagrams are often helpful when reporting the data to others.
10. Maintain script quality. Bypass operating systems that get low usage, completely avoid complicated scenarios, become familiar with the system’s actions and cooperate with developers. This will help the script quality improve, cause the system testing to run effectively, and lower the time and cost of testing in general.
