In this article, we will delve into the synergy between the realm of repetitive process automation and the sphere of software testing design and execution. Nowadays, a significant portion of the economy and society relies on multiple computerized systems we utilize daily. In recent years, the pace of software creation and delivery has surged, despite challenges in training professionals in this field. Most applications today reside in the cloud and operate in a distributed manner. Today’s client, increasingly discerning, anticipates rapid and flawless information.
Society has quickened its pace, with companies adapting by working collaboratively and often remotely. The value delivered to the end customer is largely influenced by the digital experience. This scenario demands excellence in value chains, predominantly supported by digital mediums and organizations’ ability to optimize their operations.
It’s intriguing, especially considering places like Portugal, that there’s still a prevailing digital illiteracy concerning the effort required to develop and deliver high-quality software. Many business owners aspire to innovate and venture into the digital realm, but often overlook the intricacies of delivery timeframes, team structures, and the importance of testing.
Let’s focus on automated software testing. Beyond a certain scale and complexity, these tests become indispensable to prevent more bugs than functionalities from being introduced. Ensuring adequate test coverage is as crucial as periodically refactoring code, minimizing technical debt, or ensuring its security.
Crafting daily executable automated tests is vital. Designing such tests isn’t always straightforward, but tools like ChatGPT are now playing a pivotal role in this domain. A test’s design mirrors a business process, transitioning from point A to B with well-defined actions. Hence, there’s a noticeable trend towards using RPA platforms in this domain, with some even rooted in renowned frameworks like Selenium or Robotframework.
These RPA platforms, with their orchestration capabilities, offer a consolidated view of automated tests—something many DevOps platforms lack. Being low-code platforms, they ease the crafting or adjustment of tests to product developments.
Often, devising automated tests demands profound programming knowledge. Conversely, coding RPAs to conduct software tests requires lesser programming acumen since scripts predominantly consist of direct interface actions. Thus, RPAs ensure more efficient utilization of software development teams, leading to more comprehensive regression tests and sturdier software.
The digital age demands speed, accuracy, and efficiency in all software development facets. Integrating RPA into software testing processes emerges as an avant-garde solution to these demands, offering a more agile and error-resistant approach. Globally, including in places like Portugal, it’s paramount that organizations recognize and adapt to these innovations, ensuring not just client satisfaction but also market sustainability and competitiveness. As we continue our technological journey, embracing tools like RPA becomes pivotal, optimizing existing operations and paving avenues for future innovations.
