Automation:
Accessing one Software Objects from another Software is called Automation.(AUT is one s/w and Testing Tool is another s/w.)
Automation Framework:
It is a set of guidelines, assumptions and process developed by experts in order to perform a task(s) in an effective, efficient and optimized way.
Or
A systematic approach to automate software Test process
Why Automation Framework:
In one project test automation we use various files, we perform various tasks, in order to organize and manage them all, a systematic approach (Automation Framework) required.
Files to be used:
a) Flat files (.txt),
b) Excel files (.xls)
c) Object repository files (.tsr)
d) XML files (.xml)
e) Library files (.vbs/.qfl)
f) Test Scripts (.mts)
g) Test Batch Files (.mtb)
h) Recovery scenario files (.qrs)
i) Test Result file (.XML) Etc...
Tasks to be performed:
a) Analyzing the application
b) Selecting Areas/Test Cases for Automation
c) Planning (Effort estimation, Schedule, Work allocation and Automation Framework implementation)
d) Creating Generic and project specific functions.
e) Creating required Automation resources (Functions, Object repository Files, Environment variable files---etc)
f) Creating Tests (Using Object Repository or Descriptive Programming)
g) Enhancing Tests(Inserting Checkpoints, Output Values, Transaction points, Flow Control Statements, Synchronization, Parameterization---etc )
h) Debugging and running tests(Individual test execution, Test Batch execution --etc)
i) Defining and exporting test resultsj) Analyzing results
k) Test reporting
l) Defect Reporting using companies defect management system.
m) Modifying tests
n) Performing re and regression testing ---etc
