Software Test Automation: Effective Use of Test Execution Tools - Softcover

Fewster, Mark; Graham, Dorothy

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0201331403 ISBN 13: 9780201331400

Publisher: Addison Wesley, 1999

Synopsis

This book describes how to build and implement an automated testing regime for software development. It presents a detailed account of the principles of automated testing, practical techniques for designing a good automated testing regime, and advice on choosing and applying off-the-shelf testing tools to specific needs. This sound and practical introduction to automated testing comes from two authors well known for their seminars, consultancy and training in the field.

About this title

Review

You can't just buy an automated testing tool and expect to improve your organisation's testing process without some real effort, at least that is what the authors of Software Test Automation argue. Written for any test manager or engineer, this practically minded guide shows the right way to automate testing in order to bring down costs and improve overall software quality.

Most importantly, this book debunks the myth that testing tools alone will automate the testing process successfully. This title does a good job at showing the limitations of today's testing tools. Instead of providing quick fixes, the authors show that with proper planning, you can design and re-use test scripts in addition to automating many aspects of the testing process (such as comparing actual and expected results). With chapters on designing test scripts, creating a testing architecture that will allow you to re-use test cases, and even documentation on choosing the right testing tool for your needs, this book is filled with plenty of nuts-and-bolts advice.

Later the authors explain software metrics for tracking defects and how to phase in automated testing for the real-world organisation (with a good eye for your shop's return on investment). The book closes with over a dozen case studies from the field, in which testing professionals from large companies (including Microsoft) relate their successes (and failures) with real-world test automation. Accessibly written and filled with real-world expertise, Software Test Automation provides a worthy resource for any test engineer on the effective implementation of automated software testing. --Richard Dragan

Topics covered: test automation basics, the V-model for testing, testing tool limitations, scripts, automating result verification and comparison, filters, testing architecture, pre- and post-processing, improving test maintainability, testing metrics, ROI, choosing a test tool, implementing automated testing within organisations, case studies.

Review

"This is the first comprehensive treatment of software test automation issues, strategies and tactics ever published. It provides the equivalent of two or three years of on the job experience. Every important aspect of test automation is covered, with enough information to help the reader approach the subject with the right balance of caution and confidence. I'm delighted with what Fewster & Graham have done."

--James Bach, Test Design Consultant

"The most authoritative book available on this subject, a must read for every software testing professional!"

--Jeffrey M. Voas, Chief Scientist, Reliable Software Technologies, VA

Edition details

• Publisher: Addison Wesley
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 0201331403
• ISBN 13: 9780201331400
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 574