Selecting an Automation Framework for Your Business

A test automation framework is a platform laid out to offer a unique execution environment for the automation of test scripts. Generally, a framework refers to the combination of protocols, rules, standards, and guidelines that help leverage the test process's benefits.

A framework is any constructive blend of concepts and processes used as a pillar for automation testing. A framework ensures that, ultimately, the end client gets high-quality software. Before software is delivered, it goes through a rigorous testing and improvement process. The test automation framework is the set of guidelines and standards used to achieve this goal.

The choice of a test automation framework affects the quality of the software. As such, businesses must consider the entire selection process to ensure they derive the best possible outcome. The framework selection can, however, depend on many factors.

Choosing the Right Test Automation Framework

It’s important to note that choosing a test automation framework is never a one-approach-fit-all sort of arrangement. There’s no wrong or proper testing framework; just one works best for one organization and not the others. Each business has specific tailored needs and objectives when considering test automation.

You can decide between various frameworks depending on your needs and underlying project requirements. However, the following are some of the primary considerations you must make when choosing a suitable test automation framework for your business.

But first, it’s highly advisable to begin the process by scanning the market for the various options available.

Conduct Market Research

When formulating a test automation framework, it’s crucial that you conduct adequate market intelligence. The need for market research is to ensure that you arrive at the right blend of options for a practical framework.

Appium and commercial frameworks that include TestComplete are among the best options today. Appium stands out as the best open-source option in the market. The cross-platform automation tool is suitable for mobile apps and desktop apps. The platform allows QAs to undertake automated app testing across multiple platforms, including Windows, Ios, and Android.

If you are scanning the market for a tool that can help you run tests across multiple mobile platforms, then the Appium automation platform is the best solution.

As noted, there’s never a one-framework-fit-all approach when selecting the test automation framework. As such, you may need to consider each of the following pointers to decide what framework works best for you.

1.   Team Skills

Usually, when choosing a tool for automation, you consider two critical types of devices. The first is the codeless test automation tool, and the second is the automation tool that requires coding. These two types of tools should be able to help you decide on the set of skills you’ll need.

Codeless automation tools don’t require a pool of skilled people to help you run the tests. As such, this is a perfect idea for businesses planning to have an automation framework that does need human input. On the other hand, if you intend to use an automation framework that requires coding, you may need to consider highly skilled staff to handle the entire simulation process. However, in both cases, you may need an experienced team of testers to help you navigate the whole testing process. The only difference is in the extent of skill required for each of the two types of tools.

2.   Budget

Determining the anticipated budget before settling for a specific automation tool is essential. While you may go for free testing tools, you also need to consider the time used on automation. You must also view the number of people working on the automation tool and the machines used.

All these factors affect the actual budget set. Different automation tools require varying levels of input. Before selecting a framework for your test process, it would help to consider the following factors.

·   The actual cost of the human resources required for the automation.

·   The time spent on learning and utilizing tools

·   The total cost of infrastructure

This analysis may require a specialist to comprehensively assess your needs vis-à-vis the framework and provide a conclusive budget estimation.

3.   The Project Requirements

This should be top of the selection criteria. You can’t consider a solution if you don’t know the problem. Before selecting a framework, you may need to consider the project’s requirements.

You may need to understand the type of app that needs testing. This could either be web, app, desktop, or API. You may also need to understand the platforms that need to be tested. This encompasses the different operating systems for either mobile or desktops.

The other project requirement to consider is the programming language in consideration. The application language for the specific app will determine the programming language used for automation. If cross-browser testing is needed, you may also need to factor in whether you are dealing with a web application.

4.   Integration 

Can the test automation framework ensure iteration testing? This is also known as (I&T) in more technical terms. Consider a test automation testing framework allowing units, modules, and components to be tested as a combined entity. This should be possible even when different programmers code the modules. Run testing methods can be a valuable option for automated customer tests.

5.   The Application and technology

Whether working on mobile or advanced web apps, you must consider the varying supported platforms. You should decide on the media you intend to target and the technology vested in their development. You can get as much information from different sources on the other options that could be compatible with your choice. 

Appium automation is the most common network used due to its easy integration with the different technologies used in app testing. This platform's scripting and programming language always blends easily with most of the client’s needs.

6.   Scalability

It would be best to have test automation software that can scale up quickly. This is due to the constantly changing test environment and the evolving technologies. The framework needs to be programmed to support the various applications across a host of test scripts.

7.   Error Handling

With the ever-changing scope of data testing, errors are a constant concern. The software development and testing process may require a test automation framework capable of handling errors regardless of the complexity of the scenario. When the framework is weak, the risk of generating highly compromised software doubles.

Before choosing a test automation framework, it’s essential to consider the actual ability to handle errors. Such frameworks should be tailored to run multiple scenarios without showing vulnerability to error.

8.   Flexibility

As more teams move towards agile models of test frameworks, setting up more flexible tools has become necessary. You may need to consider a hybrid framework for testing that ensures flexibility across different platforms and landscapes.

9.   Consider the Licensing Cost

One of the additional costs one must consider should be licensing. Consider the actual licensing cost for the framework. A critical analysis of the various frameworks and their licensing costs will help you decide which framework works better.

The license cost varies from one framework to another depending on factors such as the existing contract between the creator and author. The license agreements set out the purchaser’s rights and the extent of obligation each party holds.

Common Types of Automation Framework

One considers different types of automation frameworks when conducting test runs. They include

·   Linear automation framework

·   Hybrid testing framework

·   Keyword-driven framework

·   Library architecture testing framework

·   Modular-based testing framework

·   Date-driven framework

Based on underlying needs and the nature of the test runs, you may settle for any of these app testing frameworks.

Benefits of Using Test Automation Framework

There Are numerous benefits of using test automation frameworks. Once you have identified the selection procedure for the framework, it’s possible to enjoy the benefits of frameworks. Some of the benefits of using the test tool frameworks include

·   Complete coverage

·   Easy reporting procedure

·   Minimal need for manual interventions

·   Recovery scenario

Cloud-based frameworks allow another level of convenience that will enable you to run automated tests everywhere. Cloud-based options add an extra level of benefits that include cost-effectiveness and a greater extent of efficiency.

Appium as a Great App Testing Framework Option

If you are looking for a great framework option for future application testing, then Appium would be a significant consideration. This option automates testing for native mobile applications. The framework is an open-source solution that allows QAs to undertake automated app testing on various operating systems, including Windows and Android.  The app uses WebDriver protocols to offer comprehensive.

The best part about Appium automation is that it doesn’t require application source coding to actualize. This makes it the best automated mobile app testing option today.

Conclusion

Selecting the best app testing framework can be hard to crack without the correct information. However, without the right information, you might end up with the wrong framework, potentially affecting the ability to deliver quality software. At Kobiton, we are eager to help you develop a test automation framework for Appium. Contact us today for the best test framework solutions.