Getting the Most out of Scriptless Automation

What is Scriptless Automation?

Scriptless Automation refers to a method of automated testing that does not require writing code. Kobiton’s Scriptless Automation allows for the effortless transformation of manual testing procedures into automated scripts, capable of running across more than 350 diverse devices. This innovative approach incorporates features such as assertions, data injections, and seamless DevOps integration. Scriptless Automation democratizes testing, making it accessible and efficient for teams of all technical levels, by elevating test and device coverage, all without writing a single line of code.

Skip the Script: Embracing AI-Driven Testing

Leveraging Generative AI, Scriptless Automation is revolutionizing the way we approach software testing, making it more accessible, efficient, and scalable. This technology simplifies the testing process to make it accessible to non-technical users. By eliminating the complexities associated with traditional scripting, it opens up new possibilities for efficiency and scalability in software testing. AI-powered Scriptless Automation is not just about keeping up with industry trends; it’s about setting new standards for what automated testing can achieve, making it a cornerstone for future-proof testing strategies.

How To Use Kobiton’s Scriptless Automation

Here are the steps to use Kobiton’s Scriptless Automation:

1. Start with Manual Testing: Initiate the process by manually testing your application on Kobiton’s devices. Navigate through your app as if you were a user, executing all the actions you wish to automate.
2. Record Your Actions: During your manual testing session, Kobiton captures every tap, swipe, and text input you make.
3. Automate Your Test: After finishing your manual testing, Kobiton automatically creates a scriptless automation test based on the actions you performed. This test can then be executed across multiple devices to verify your application’s performance under different conditions.

Image: Automate your tests without writing scripts. Showing Kobiton test camera roll which serves as an automation index. 

Best Practices for Using Kobiton’s Scriptless Automation

To maximize the benefits of Kobiton’s Scriptless Automation, here are some best practices you should consider:

1. Turn on the “Capture” button in manual sessions: Ensure every action is recorded accurately by enabling this feature.

2. Use a physical keyboard for typing: Use your workstation’s physical keyboard instead of the virtual device keyboard to type into your apps to ensure text is accurately captured.

3. Be precise in manual sessions: Details matter! For instance, tap in the center of the button, not on the edges. When dismissing popups, tap close instead of tapping outside the popup.

4. Avoid rapid swiping and tapping: Allow a gap of at least 2 seconds between actions to ensure each one is captured correctly.

5. Adhere to device setup instructions: Kobiton provides specific configurations, such as disabling certain manufacturer-specific options, to optimize Scriptless Automation performance.

6. Avoid selecting on auto-corrected text: Autocorrect may differ from device to device, which would cause inconsistencies between tests.

7. Regularly review and update your test cases: Before triggering a new test run, ensure that your test cases are up-to-date with the latest app changes and requirements.

Apps to Avoid for Scriptless Automation

Certain app attributes can hinder the effectiveness of both Scripted and Scriptless  automation. It’s generally best to avoid apps with:

1. Variable App States: If an app behaves differently on initial launch compared to subsequent ones, then the app state needs to be carefully orchestrated.

2. Dynamic Content: Since Kobiton’s AI utilizes the visual presentation of the device screen, apps with content that changes frequently may not be suitable for Scriptless Automation.

3. Random App Pop-up: Unpredictable pop-ups, like promotions, can disrupt the flow of test cases.

4. Non-English language: Our AI has been predominantly trained in English, so apps in other languages may not work as well with Scriptless Automation.

Embracing the Edges of Scriptless Automation: The Current State of Unsupported Actions

As pioneers in the automation frontier, we often encounter tasks that challenge our tools’ capabilities. Scriptless Automation, with all its strengths, has its set of actions it hasn’t mastered:

• Double Tap and Double Home Commands: These gestures are not commonly used in testing today; however, we plan to support them in the future. 
• Pinch/Zoom Functions: These gestures are focused on specific application types, like maps, and are more difficult to implement in scriptless, so for now they remain outside Scriptless Automation’s current supported actions. Note: Pinch/Zoom functions are also really difficult to implement in script-based automation.
• Screenshot Capturing: Kobiton already captures screenshots at every test step, so explicitly doing it is not necessary.
• Setting Time-zone: An operation for testing across global markets, still on the to-do list.
• Image Injection: A sophisticated requirement for certain test scenarios, awaiting support.
• Custom Gestures: Tailor-made actions specific to an application’s unique needs are not yet implemented.

Pro Tip: If you run up against any of these limitations, you can always generate an Appium script from the manual test and modify the script to support this functionality.

Compatibility Challenges to Avoid

Just as a seasoned engineer knows the importance of the right tool for the right job, it’s vital to acknowledge where Scriptless Automation currently does not fit:

• Integration with Espresso, UIAutomator, XCUITest, GameDriver: These frameworks and tools, staples in many of our toolboxes, aren’t currently supported companions for a scriptless testing workflow.
• Gaming Apps: The dynamic and complex nature of gaming applications presents a unique challenge yet to be conquered.
• Virtual Devices: Virtual devices are on our roadmap. We aim to support manual, scripted, and scriptless testing.
• Mobile Device Management (MDM) Systems: For corporate and large-scale deployments, is not compatible with scriptless. 

Scalable Automation Evolution: From Scriptless to Script-based

Kobiton stands out by providing a dynamic testing environment that grows with your needs. Start with scriptless testing for immediate results, and when you’re ready, smoothly transition to an Appium script-based approach. This ensures that the Appium scripts generated are finely tuned to the specific nuances of different devices and OS versions, offering a broader and more comprehensive testing scope.

In conclusion, Kobiton’s Scriptless Automation provides a robust platform for those looking to streamline their testing process without delving into the complexities of coding. By following these best practices and understanding the system’s limitations, you can maximize your testing efficiency and pave the way for more advanced, script-based testing in the future. Happy testing!

If you found this blog helpful, check out other “Getting the Most Out of Kobiton” blogs for tips and best practices:

• Getting The Most Out of Session Explorer
• Getting The Most Out of AI-augmented Software Tools 
• Kobiton Open Sources Appium Script Generation