In software testing, testing artifacts refer to the documents, artifacts, or files that are generated during the testing process. These artifacts serve as evidence of the testing activities and provide information on what was tested, how it was tested, and what the results were. In automation testing, testing artifacts are also important as they help to ensure that the testing process is repeatable, consistent, and efficient.
The following are the most common testing artifacts in automation testing:
Test Plan: A test plan is a document that outlines the objectives, scope, approach, and resources required for testing. It includes details such as the testing strategy, testing environment, test cases, and schedules. The test plan serves as a guide for the testing process and helps to ensure that testing activities are conducted in an organized and systematic manner.
Test Cases: Test cases are detailed instructions or steps that are used to test a specific feature or functionality of the software application. Test cases include inputs, expected outputs, and steps to reproduce the test scenario. Automated test cases are developed using automation tools and can be executed repeatedly to ensure the consistency and accuracy of the testing process.
Test Scripts: Test scripts are sets of code that automate the execution of test cases. They are written in programming languages such as Java, Python, or Ruby, and are used to interact with the software application to simulate user actions and verify expected results. Test scripts can be executed using automation frameworks or tools, such as Selenium or Appium.
Test Reports: Test reports provide a summary of the testing activities, results, and issues encountered during the testing process. They include details such as the number of test cases executed, the number of test cases passed and failed, the defects identified, and their severity. Test reports are essential for tracking the progress of the testing process and for making informed decisions about the readiness of the software application for release.
Traceability Matrix: A traceability matrix is a document that maps the requirements to the corresponding test cases or test scripts. It helps to ensure that all requirements are covered by the testing activities and that the testing process is complete. The traceability matrix also provides a way to track changes to the requirements and their impact on the testing process.
In conclusion, testing artifacts are essential in automation testing as they provide evidence of the testing activities and help to ensure that the testing process is repeatable, consistent, and efficient. Test plans, test cases, test scripts, test reports, and traceability matrices are the most common testing artifacts used in automation testing, and they provide a comprehensive view of the testing process and the quality of the software application being tested. This is the reason Automation Testing is an imp element of development at present and is taught by completing its Automation Testing Certification.
