The Value of Keyword Testing
with Browser Automation
The concept of testing various elements within a website or application is daunting for many system administrators. While essentially, the process of carrying out effective tasks and tests used to require a vast amount of programming knowledge. However, the latest browser automation software has simplified this complex process. Through the use of keyword-driven tasks and testing, the process of monitoring and reviewing website and application performance is streamlined.
What is Keyword-Driven Testing
Its important to note that not every tool offers keyword testing and task setting. However, if youre searching for a browser automation software that effective accomplishes tasks without having to delve into complex programming to accomplish specific tasks. Because there is no programming skills needed, those who are new to system administration are able to effectively review the functionality and performance of their site.
The basic idea behind this approach is to include a variety of tasks by inputting a simple keyword into the software. These keywords are used to describe the process or function that is to be tested. There are a number of different free software tools that you can use to automate these types of browser processes, such as Every-Step and Sahi Pro.
Benefits of Keyword Testing
Perhaps the most notable benefit of keyword-driven testing is its ability to execute tasks even if the screen layout should change or even if the primary system changes to a different operating system. When this testing process is utilized, little if any changes must be made to the test case.
Setting Up a Keyword-Driven Test
If youre interested in creating a keyword-driven test within your browser automation, there are several elements that must be included within the keyword documentation. This documentation is used by the software to determine what actions must be performed once the keyword is selected. Documentation within keyword-driven testing typically includes:
- Starting point within the website or application
- How the software accesses the starting point (by opening a browser or entering the website/application through the Start menu)
- How the software navigates to reach necessary pages. For example, the number of mouse clicks to reach a specific page.
- Text that must be entered into specific dialogue boxes or text fields to accomplish a task
- What actions must be taken when a dialog box pops-up, such as a confirmation box.
- Necessary buttons that must be selected to accomplish the tasks/test.
- How the system/screen should appear after the task is completed.
Once this information is entered in the keyword documentation, whenever this keyword is selected, the established actions will take place. Its important to remember that each keyword receives its own set of rules, or documentation. This is important to not only logically organize keywords, but to simplify keyword changes. Instead of having to make multiple changes to a test or task, one must simply alter the actions laid out in the keyword-specific documentation. Of course, this process will differ based upon the browser automation software your enterprise uses.