by Mit ThakkarAutomation is a technology that is the process of using software tools and programs that can execute predefined test cases so that the different aspects of a program are tested before launching it in the market. Automation testing can save time and reduce errors from manual handling. Test automation is the next step in software testing because of the sheer volume of software that companies are launching every month and year.
The repetitive tasks related to software testing, like the generation of reports and comments, are done easily through automation testing frameworks. One of the best automation testing frameworks is the Selenium test automation framework. The Selenium test framework is a multi-faceted framework that can test for different aspects of software under development. In this article, we will know what is selenium testing framework and why your software development company should opt for it.
What is Selenium Testing Framework?
The Selenium test automation framework is a suite of advanced automation testing tools that works on the basis of JavaScript. The selenium test framework is extensive, reliable and quick in response, so it is preferred by software developers and testers around the world. The foremost advantage of the selenium test framework is that it can reduce the time and effort taken to do a manual software testing cycle. The Selenium automation test framework is useful for software testing because it easily works with agile workflow and DevOps workflow followed by leading companies.
The Crucial Role of Picking Different Frameworks in Selenium
When we talk about the Selenium test framework, there is not one but multiple automation testing frameworks that developers can work with. When choosing from the types of testing frameworks in Selenium, make sure you take all the features into account and make an informed choice based on the type of software you want to test and the type of tests you want to run. The three types of automation framework in Selenium are as follows-
- Data-driven test framework in Selenium
- Hybrid testing framework in Selenium
- Keyword-driven testing framework used in Selenium
The different types of framework in Selenium are classified according to their functional approach to software testing. Compare the different types of Selenium frameworks based on their functions and features, and then make an informed choice so that the Selenium framework aligns with the goals of software testing for your product.
1. Project Success or Failure
Choosing the right type of testing automation framework from the Selenium suite is pivotal for the success of your software development project. Selecting the wrong type of test automation framework is a waste of your time and effort. The test automation framework you choose should broadly align with your project prerequisites and brief. List out the types of tests you need to run on your software product, and then choose a test framework that provides these features efficiently.
2. Time and Resource Efficiency
Choosing the right kind of testing framework from Selenium can ensure that you get your software tested quickly. The software gets tested efficiently, and you can reduce the time taken to deploy the final product. You do not have to spend a lot of money or time on testing and correcting errors in the code.
If you choose the wrong framework and the wrong series of software tests, you might have to test the code again under a different framework in Selenium. This process is repeated until the whole code structure is without errors. The repetition of testing and switching from one framework to another can cost a lot and waste a lot of time.
3. Code Reusability and Maintainability
A good quality testing automation framework can simplify the testing and maintenance cycles so that the company can easily maintain and update the code from time to time. Most of the processes and tests are automated, so the team can be highly productive and produce results on shorter deadlines. The code that is created after testing automation frameworks is highly reusable and readable for professionals.
4. Test Coverage
A good automation testing framework not only reduces the repetition and hassle of extensive testing it also offers a large number of preinstalled testing cases and instances so that the software is properly tested and thoroughly checked for inherent errors. The Selenium automation test framework, for example, has great test coverage and diversity for different kinds of applications and code blocks. The extensive test coverage makes a test automation framework very versatile and useful for the software development team.
Also Read : A Guide To Salesforce Performance Testing
5. Speed and Performance
The speed and performance of the test cases and the execution of the tools in the Selenium framework are a definitive advantage. The selenium test framework is automated and error-free, so it is very quick, accurate and high-performance in nature. By opting for the types of automation frameworks in Selenium, you can reduce the time taken to complete the testing cycles. You can easily complete the test case execution and deploy the products sooner rather than later. The productivity and results of the testing process multiply manifold with the use of the right kind of automation testing framework.
6. Risk Mitigation
Automation testing frameworks like Selenium are very accurate and precise in fault detection and debugging, So when you are developing a new code, an automated testing framework can detect all the risks and vulnerabilities attached to the code and reduce the risks so that your code runs smoothly in the testing environment and otherwise. The risks and vulnerabilities are addressed to give you high-performance, highly efficient code.
7. Collaboration and Team Efficiency
The Selenium Automation testing framework can improve the way your team collaborates and works on a project. The testing frameworks of Selenium are supportive of Agile and DevOps methodology. So, if your team is already working under the continuous delivery and feedback system, the Selenium framework can easily integrate into the development environment. You can develop, exchange feedback, track development, test, and improve code in one integrated environment.
Languages Supported by Selenium Test Framework
- IDE
The Selenium IDE supports code in different programming languages like Java, Python, C#, Ruby, etc. You can easily test out diverse kinds of application code developed in different languages if you use the Selenium IDE judiciously.
- Selenium WebDriver
The Selenium WebDriver is also called Selenium 2.0, and it works closely with browsers to test out how browsers need to be driven according to code. The WebDriver is used to develop test cases for different modern-day browsers like Opera, Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.
- Build Tools
If you want to create test cases quickly and increase the pace of automation testing on Selenium, you can integrate build tools like Maven, ANT, and gradle so that these testing tools can reduce the testing lifecycles and help in parallel test execution on the same code.
- Testing Libraries
The Selenium framework also supports the use of many testing libraries and runners like JUnit, TestNG, and Cucumber that provide additional tools for testing and extending plugins to the test automation framework. The libraries can be used to organize the test scripts for large-scale projects so that the execution flow is streamlined for the results.
Key Components of a Selenium Test Framework
- Test Scripts
The test scripts are the test code frameworks that are created to test the code
blocks of an application program.
- Test Data
The test data gathered from running the test script, and cases is later used to create test reports for documentation and information for the developers. The test data is used to monitor the testing process and results from each testing cycle.
- Test Cases
Test cases in Selenium are the different ways in which the code blocks are tested to make sure a certain type of feature or function is included in the application code. The test cases need to be in line with the project brief and prerequisites. The test cases are the actions taken to test for a particular feature of the application.
- Object Repository
The Object Repository in Selenium is a centralized storage location for all the locators of a code file in the form of objects. These locators point you to specific code blocks and outline the structure of the application code.
- Configuration Files
Configuration files are the externalized data collected from the code blocks through the config properties command. The configuration files and data can be used to build new code, but you have to change the data values.
- Reporting Mechanism
The reporting mechanism of the Selenium test automation framework can be managed with multiple reporting tools. Selenium itself does not support report generation, but it can be integrated with efficient reporting tools. For example, TestNG has a default reporting feature that creates extensive test reports. The Junit library also has a reporting feature that can be integrated with the Selenium test framework.
Different Types of Testing Framework in Selenium
1. Keyword Driven Framework
- Definition
The keyword-driven testing framework in Selenium abstracts the technicalities of test implementation and creates test cases in a more user-friendly and business-oriented manner. The tests under this framework are represented as a sequence of keywords where each keyword stands for a specific action taken in the test case.
- Pros
The keyword-driven framework is useful as it maintains code reusability and application abstraction. The method of testing is highly productive and maintains platform independence.
- Cons
The process can be time-consuming because keyword management can be cumbersome. The tester has to do extensive planning before creating test cases.
Also Read : How To Execute Selenium Test Faster?
2. Hybrid Testing Framework in Selenium
- Definition
In a Hybrid testing type of automation testing framework, the test cases are developed as modular test scripts so that they can be combined in a highly efficient modular testing framework.
- Pros
The test cases of the hybrid testing framework in Selenium are modular and easy to maintain. The code can be reused, so less coding is required to create more test cases.
- Cons
However, there is one disadvantage of the code being too complex to read and maintain in the long run.
3. Data Driven Testing Framework in Selenium
- Definition
The data-driven test framework in Selenium is used to drive test cases from an external data feed like Excel files related to the program. In this framework, the data set is separate from the test case.
- Pros
The data-driven framework can be very useful because it allows testing of the application with multiple data sets. The test scenarios are distinct from the test codes, ensuring enhanced structure. The data-driven framework also generates test data automatically.
- Cons
However, there is a disadvantage, like more time taken for data validation. The maintenance and review of the test cases can also be very time-consuming.
4. Behavior-driven Testing Framework
- Definition
The behavior-driven testing framework is beneficial because it allows testers to craft test cases using plain English. The BDD frameworks are so called because the test cases are designed on the basis of user behavior and stories in a simplified manner.
- Pros
A behavior-focused framework bridges the communication divide between the technical jargon of development and the everyday language of testing. This approach is lower in technical jargon and allows you to create simple but effective test cases.
- Cons
The definite disadvantages of these frameworks can be a steep learning curve of development and the slow execution of test cases.
5. Linear Scripting Framework
- Definition
The linear scripting framework in Selenium is used to test small apps in a linear manner. The tests are created and executed in an individual manner.
- Pros
The pros of the linear scripting framework are that it takes less time to create test scripts and cases. The learning curve is simple and beginner-friendly.
- Cons
However, there are some drawbacks, like the hardcode of data and the dead end with auto-generated test scripts. If you are using different data sets, you will have to rewrite the testing code.
6. Modular Testing Framework
- Definition
The modular testing framework is an efficient testing framework that is based on the modules of different software files. Many software teams take up modular architecture development, for which modular testing in an automated way will be the best. With the help of this framework, you can break down the application code into smaller modules and test each one separately.
- Pros
The modular testing framework from Selenium is highly scalable and independent in testing different modules.
- Cons
However, it has the drawback of taking more time to analyze test cases and rewriting the test scripts when data sets are reused.
How to Choose the Right Types of Frameworks in Selenium?
- Understand Your Project Requirements
Before choosing one from the different types of frameworks in Selenium, you need to look at your project requirements and prerequisites. The features and functions listed in the brief need to be taken into consideration for this choice.
- Team Skill Level
The skill level of the team and the testers also decides the type of selenium framework you work with. Some Selenium automation testing frameworks are very easy to learn and manage. Some frameworks have a steep learning curve. Depending on the level of skill and expertise, your team should choose the automation testing framework.
- Time and Budget Constraints
The timeline of the project, the deadline you have to meet and the amount of money your team is ready to spend on testing can determine the final choice. If you are working on a short deadline, you need a fast and effective automation testing framework. But if there are budget constraints, you have to also go for a cheaper alternative.
- Testing Requirements
The kind of test cases you want to develop and implement also determines the automation testing framework for your team. Whether you want to do regression testing, unit testing, data-driven testing, or behavior testing, different needs are fulfilled by different testing frameworks.
- Maintainability and Scalability
When choosing an automation testing framework, make sure you are choosing a framework with easy mechanisms, maintainable code and scalable usage. This way, you will opt for a versatile code-testing framework that can work for different types of applications.
- Community Support and Documentation
A good automation testing framework like Selenium is preferred by a majority of software developers around the world. It is very versatile and accurate. So, you will easily find community support during the learning phase. Experienced testers know how to use Selenium, so you can hire good testers for your company.
Ready to Automate? Make Testing Easier with Selenium Frameworks!
Using the Selenium testing framework, you can provide automation testing solutions to your clients. Selenium automation testing services can be offered to your clients along with fast-paced software development. The use of the right kind of automation testing framework can reduce development time, effort and money so your software development company can offer affordability and satisfaction to all its clients. Depending on the type of application and development approach at your company, you can choose a different framework in Selenium for testing purposes.
