Overview
Keyword-driven testing in Tricentis TOSCA is an approach that simplifies test automation by separating the test creation process from the script development. Testers create test cases using keywords, which represent actions or tests to be performed on the application under test. This method is beneficial because it allows individuals with less programming knowledge to contribute to test automation, promoting collaboration and efficiency.
Key Concepts
- Keywords in TOSCA: Predefined actions or functions in TOSCA that perform specific operations like clicking a button, entering text, or validating outputs.
- Modules in TOSCA: Reusable components that abstract application controls and actions into user-friendly entities, supporting keyword-driven testing.
- Test Case Design in TOSCA: A technique for creating test cases in TOSCA that emphasizes reusability and maintainability, crucial for keyword-driven testing.
Common Interview Questions
Basic Level
- What is keyword-driven testing in TOSCA?
- How do you create a simple test case using keywords in TOSCA?
Intermediate Level
- How does TOSCA's Module section support keyword-driven testing?
Advanced Level
- What are the best practices for managing and optimizing keyword-driven test cases in TOSCA?
Detailed Answers
1. What is keyword-driven testing in TOSCA?
Answer: Keyword-driven testing in TOSCA is a methodology that uses keywords to represent testing actions, such as "Click", "EnterText", or "Verify". These keywords abstract underlying automation scripts, enabling testers to design test cases without deep programming knowledge. TOSCA's approach emphasizes reusability and efficiency, facilitating collaboration between technical and non-technical team members.
Key Points:
- Keywords are pre-defined actions.
- Facilitates collaboration.
- Reduces the need for deep programming knowledge.
Example:
// Note: TOSCA doesn't directly use C# for keyword-driven testing, but the conceptual example:
// Consider a login test case where keywords might be abstracted as follows:
Keyword: "EnterText"
Target: "UsernameField"
Value: "testUser"
Keyword: "EnterText"
Target: "PasswordField"
Value: "testPass"
Keyword: "Click"
Target: "LoginButton"
// These keywords would be defined within TOSCA's interface, not as C# code.
2. How do you create a simple test case using keywords in TOSCA?
Answer: Creating a test case using keywords in TOSCA involves identifying the steps needed to perform a test, mapping those steps to predefined keywords, and organizing them in the TOSCA Commander. Each keyword corresponds to an action like entering text, clicking a button, or verifying a result, and is linked to specific elements of the application under test through the use of modules.
Key Points:
- Identify test steps.
- Map steps to keywords.
- Organize in TOSCA Commander.
Example:
// Example steps for creating a keyword-driven test case in TOSCA (conceptual, not direct C# code):
// 1. Open TOSCA Commander and navigate to the Test Cases section.
// 2. Create a new test case and name it appropriately.
// 3. Add steps to the test case by selecting from the list of predefined keywords.
// 4. Configure each keyword step by specifying the target module and any necessary parameters.
// 5. Save the test case and execute it to validate the functionality.
// Since TOSCA uses a GUI for these actions, direct C# code examples are not applicable.
3. How does TOSCA's Module section support keyword-driven testing?
Answer: The Module section in TOSCA supports keyword-driven testing by providing a repository of reusable components, or modules, that abstract the controls and actions of the application under test. Each module represents a specific functionality or UI element, such as a button or text field, and is associated with keywords that define the actions that can be performed on it. This modular approach enhances test maintenance, reusability, and scalability.
Key Points:
- Modules abstract UI elements and functionalities.
- Associated with keywords for actions.
- Enhances maintenance, reusability, and scalability.
Example:
// Conceptual example since TOSCA's modules and keyword associations are defined in its GUI:
// Imagine a module named "LoginButton" that is associated with the keyword "Click".
// The module abstracts the details of the login button in the application under test,
// allowing testers to simply use the "Click" keyword to interact with the button in test cases.
// The actual association and test case creation happen within TOSCA's interface.
4. What are the best practices for managing and optimizing keyword-driven test cases in TOSCA?
Answer: Managing and optimizing keyword-driven test cases in TOSCA involves several best practices, including regular keyword and module library maintenance, modularization of test cases for reuse, parameterization for data-driven testing, and utilizing TOSCA's reporting features for continuous improvement.
Key Points:
- Maintain a clean and organized keyword and module library.
- Modularize test cases for reusability.
- Use parameterization for data-driven testing.
- Leverage TOSCA's reporting for insights and improvements.
Example:
// Conceptual guidance as TOSCA's management and optimization strategies do not involve direct C# code:
// Regular Maintenance:
// - Periodically review and update the keyword and module libraries to ensure they are current and meet testing needs.
// Modularization:
// - Design test cases in a modular fashion, where common steps are abstracted into reusable test steps or modules.
// Parameterization:
// - Use TOSCA's data-driven testing features to parameterize test cases, allowing for scalability and flexibility in testing various data sets.
// Reporting:
// - Utilize TOSCA's reporting and analytics tools to assess test coverage, identify areas for improvement, and optimize test execution strategies.
This guide provides a foundational understanding of keyword-driven testing in TOSCA, covering its key concepts, common interview questions, and detailed answers to facilitate effective interview preparation.
