What is automation testing and how to become an automation tester

Every software needs to be tested before it can be published on the market; that’s apparent. However, sometimes, manual testing techniques are ineffective and too time-consuming. This is where automation testing steps in and saves the day. In this article, we’re going to show you what automation testing is all about and how to become an automation tester.

Testing is a valid part of the product development process. It allows developers to spot glitches and errors before the product is published. Moreover, testing can verify a whole range of things related to your digital product – from usability and intuitiveness to security. Generally speaking – testing is all about checking whether the product that you work on works as it should and fulfills its purpose. In its basic version, testing is done manually by testers who analyze and check every element of the software step by step.

Automation testing is a method that uses automated software and algorithms to verify the given digital product without or with just little human involvement. In some cases, you can use ready-made testing platforms to automate your tests, but that’s not always possible. Let’s dig a bit deeper into automation testing.

What do you need to know about automation testing?

In automation testing, you use algorithms and scripted sequences to check your digital product. The automated testing software comes up with a report showing what has been checked and to what end. 

Thanks to the automation of testing procedures, you can shorten the lifecycle of the product development process, substantially reduce the risk related to human error, and, of course, automate mundane and repetitive tasks that usually take a lot of time. Automation developers usually create such automated testing software.

THE BENEFITS OF AUTOMATION TESTING

The first benefit is apparent – automated tests are quicker, which translates directly to a shorter time to market. Moreover, in many instances, they are also more accurate because you reduce human involvement. What’s more, with automation in testing, you get almost immediate feedback, which means you can increase your development team’s productivity.

HOW TO USE AUTOMATION TESTING

In general, it all starts with establishing what kind of tests you want or have to run. We have to be upfront here; not every kind of test can be fully automated. For instance, UX tests are usually most beneficial when done according to the target group’s needs – they frequently require a human touch. But suppose your tests can be automated; what’s next? You need automation developers who will be able to devise an algorithm that will run these tests for you.

In some situations, you can use ready-made testing software. Here are some examples of such software:

• Appium (automated mobile app testing)
• Katalon Studio (a cross-platform automation testing solution)
• Cucumber (focuses, i.a., on end-user experience)
• Selenium (enables users to create automation tests without programming skills)

However, these platforms cannot be used in every situation. And that’s where the role of an automation tester begins.

Who is an automation tester?

Automation testers work with automation developers and product developers to create and implement automated testing solutions and software. Automation testers primarily design and write test scripts in the early stages of the process. Sometimes, they also supervise the whole testing process.

How to become an automation tester

There is no one fixed way that leads to becoming an automation tester. Usually, though, the way to becoming one starts by becoming an ordinary tester. You need to understand what testing is all about and how it works if you are to automate your work in the future. 

Secondly, automation testers work with code, so that’s another thing you have to master. Five of the most popular programming languages used in automation and testing are:

• JavaScript
• Java
• Python
• C#
• PHP

It’s beneficial to learn at least one of these languages. Other elements that you should be familiar with comprise testing architecture, troubleshooting, and CI/CD. The rest is just practice. Start early and familiarize yourself with ready-made automation testing platforms like those mentioned above in this article. They will help you see and understand how automated testing works first-hand. You can start by testing apps and platforms that you already use. The more you know about automation testing, the more effective you will be at your work. Ultimately, you will be able to conduct automated tests on your own. Of course, it is also very important to stay up to date, observe the market, and learn new testing techniques and solutions. Software development is a dynamic field, and solutions that are common today become obsolete tomorrow. Keep that in mind.

Moreover, with such a practical background, you will be an attractive candidate for development companies that are usually open to new testing techniques that streamline work and help save time and money.