Numino Training Infra Backend Test Automation using ROBOT

Overview

The goal of the project was to use the Robot Framework to automate and streamline REST API testing, ensuring reliability and functionality. Manually testing the application was a slow and cumbersome process, and so the team shortlisted Robot for its versatility and strong testing capabilities.

Project Info

Category

Test Automation

Client

Numino

Tags

Technology Stack

Implementation

Keyword-Driven Test Design:
Utilizing the keyword-driven approach offered by the Robot Framework, we designed our test cases using plain English keywords. This approach not only facilitated ease of understanding but also ensured maintainability of the test suite over time.
Documentation for Clarity and Collaboration:
We utilized the documentation feature provided by the Robot Framework to provide detailed descriptions of test cases and keywords. This documentation not only served as a reference for understanding the purpose and behavior of each test element but also facilitated collaboration among team members by providing clear instructions and insights into the test suite's functionality.
Efficient Test Organization with Tags:
Additionally, we leveraged tags to categorize and classify test cases based on various attributes such as functionality, priority, or environment. These tags enabled efficient organization and selective execution of tests, allowing the team to focus on specific test scenarios as needed during different stages of development and testing cycles.
Test Data Management with Setup and Teardown Keywords:
We also utilized the Setup keyword of the Robot Framework to efficiently create the test data required for testing the REST APIs, while the Teardown keyword was used for data cleanup. This approach ensured that our automated tests had access to the necessary data, enabling comprehensive testing of API functionality and further enhancing the reliability of our software products.
Comprehensive API Response Validation:
REST API responses were thoroughly validated using various criteria, including checking the status code, comparing actual versus expected responses, and implementing custom checks. This comprehensive validation process ensured the correctness and integrity of the API responses, contributing to the overall quality of our software products.
Automation and Reporting with Test Runner:
Finally, to automate the execution of our test cases, we utilized the test runner provided by the Robot Framework. This enabled us to execute tests in a sequential manner and generate detailed test reports, providing valuable insights into the test results and facilitating informed decision-making.

Outcomes

Metrics
Summary

Pros:

Cons:

Key Findings

Pros
<span class="mil-accent">01</span> Simplified test case design
01 Simplified test case design
Using a keyword-driven approach simplifies test case design and maintenance, making it easier for team members to understand and contribute to the testing process.
<span class="mil-accent">02</span> Extensibility with Python
02 Extensibility with Python
The Robot Framework's integration with Python allows for seamless creation of custom keywords when predefined ones don't suffice, enhancing the framework's adaptability to diverse testing scenarios and ensuring comprehensive test coverage.
<span class="mil-accent">03</span> Enhanced collaboration
03 Enhanced collaboration
Plain English keywords make test cases easy to understand, even for non-technical stakeholders, improving communication and collaboration within the team.
<span class="mil-accent">04</span> Automated execution/reporting
04 Automated execution/reporting
The test runner automates test execution and generates detailed reports, providing valuable insights into test results and facilitating informed decision-making.
<span class="mil-accent">05</span> Flexibility in Project Structure
05 Flexibility in Project Structure
Similar to a sandbox, managing the project structure offers a high degree of flexibility, allowing teams to customize and adapt the structure to fit their specific project requirements and preferences.
Cons
<span class="mil-accent">01</span> Learning curve for newcomers
01 Learning curve for newcomers
While the keyword-driven approach simplifies test design, there may be a learning curve associated with understanding the Robot Framework and its syntax, especially for those new to it.
<span class="mil-accent">02</span> Limited language support
02 Limited language support
While the Robot Framework supports multiple programming languages, its primary focus is on Python, which may limit its suitability for teams preferring other languages.