Automated testing is a process for validating if software is functioning well and meets adequate requirements before its launch. Though it is not superior to manual testing, it is beneficial in the sense that it gives developers more time to focus on other tasks too.
When it comes to test automation, codeless is the next big thing in this rapidly growing tech-based era. The methodologies used in software development are evolving along with the times. This new age of technology will soon be defined by codeless applications, proving accessible to users from all backgrounds, including those who are not equipped with programming and coding skills.
For obtaining quicker and more accurate results from automation testing, organizations need to use shorter iterations. This is where codeless automation, or scriptless automation, steps in. In this blog, we shall go through codeless automation meaning, its working, the benefits it poses, and the cons it can present.
What is Codeless Automation Testing?
Traditionally, test automation required writing test scripts so anyone testing the software, whether QA engineers or developers, did not have to repeat tasks manually. However, with the passage of time, we are witnessing automation and advancement in every tech field, and owing to this advancement, we are now hearing words such as low code, codeless or no code.
Codeless Automation Testing, Codeless Automated Testing, No-code Automation or Scriptless Automation are all interchangeable terms. These terms are used to refer to a type of automation testing that facilitates the rapid development of automated test scripts. This is done occasionally without writing any code and more often with record-and-playback tools. You may think of it as a helpful adaptation of automation testing that enables the creation of test scripts quickly.
Codeless testing has also become synonymous with intelligent test automation, owing to the machine learning algorithms that are utilized in this method. Many codeless automation systems offer a graphical user interface (GUI) with an integrated testing framework, allowing users to record desired actions using element locators, leading to the rapid, smooth building of test automation suites.
Codeless Automation Testing vs Low Code Automation Testing
Low Code Automation – as the name suggests, requires some level of coding knowledge as a prerequisite. With low code automation, you can insert code over the user interface for new or custom functionality. Product owners, product managers, business analysts, or other designated people in the project without a development background can get involved in the testing process, thereby offering input in the software development lifecycle (SDLC). They can collaborate with developers and testing engineers who are well-versed in code and the best practices in automation, to perform the automation process in a swifter manner.
Pros and Cons of Using Codeless Automation Testing Tools
Now that we know what codeless test automation is, we can proceed with exploring the benefits as well as the disadvantages of depending on codeless automation testing.
Pros of Codeless Automated Testing
There are various advantages to incorporating codeless automated testing into your application testing strategy, the primary being that it speeds up the delivery of the product. Nevertheless, there are other advantages of codeless automated testing as well. The following are some of the main benefits of using a codeless test automation service:
1. Lower Learning Curve:
Testing professionals typically go through specialized training to learn to program when they need to code their tests. Scriptless testing has made it simpler to train testers for creating automated tests without the requirement for scripting expertise. Thus, users without any coding prerequisites can start creating the test cases.
2. Saves Resources & Reduces Scalability:
With codeless or scriptless testing, it is easier to maintain and scale test automation since it combines visible UI workflows with automation tests and current business requirements. When the system goes through test changes, it is typically not essential to fine-tune the automated flows. Additionally, automated flows can be easily combined into reusable parts that can be utilized as sub-flows for diverse test cases.
Most enterprises these days are using codeless automation testing, giving testers more time to explore application testing rather than spending hours writing code. Additionally, codeless test automation minimizes the need for developers to contribute to the development of UI tests. Since testers do not need to learn codeless testing from scratch, organizations do not need to hire new talent specifically for testing purposes. Such a setup is economical and does not put an organization under financial constraints while delivering better outcomes.
3. Enhanced Efficiency and Scope for Automation:
Multiple sorts of applications, including desktop applications, web applications, and virtual apps, are supported by a codeless automation testing platform. Automated tests, specifically, can actively include various application interfaces. With such compliance, scaling the total level of automation from one to several apps is simple.
In contrast to code-based frameworks that call for a certain skill set to fully exploit, codeless automation technologies can be used as a comprehensive automation solution across an enterprise. This lowers a major roadblock to automation.
4. Easy to Review:
Since test cases are developed without any code, people without a coding background can also review the test cases. The hurdle of debugging is also removed. This includes other non-technical stakeholders in the project as well.
Cons of Codeless Automated Testing
Now that we have gone through the benefits of codeless automation testing, we can draw attention to the drawbacks posed by the medium too. The disadvantages of codeless automated testing are as follows.
1. Customization is Not Possible:
There is little room for testers to adjust the scripts once everything is handled automatically through design. As a result, it forces testing results to rely purely on automation technologies, hence leaving little to no room for customization. This lack of customization stands as the most prominent downside of using codeless automation tools.
2. Not Entirely Codeless:
Although the scripts are organized automatically in codeless automation testing, there may still be some requirements for manual coding. As a result, testers must be equipped with the necessary knowledge and abilities to draft simple scripts. This means some sort of prior coding knowledge is obligatory, requiring the assistance of QA engineers and developers in the project.
3. Public Availability of Product:
Today, many codeless testing solutions are available online. As a result, the developer must share the file using a common IP address to test the items using these tools. This function makes the product easily accessible to the public, posing a possible threat to the security of the product.
4. Unexpected Bugs & Glitches:
Even though it is computer-generated, the script may contain errors and flaws due to inadequate coverage. This could result in the recorded script playing back improperly or invalid test results if the script is reusable and modular.
Codeless Test Automation – Conclusion: To Use or Not?
We have briefly covered both the pros and cons of using codeless automation tools, making it easier for you to decide if the process is suitable for your organization. While codeless testing can help accelerate your QA procedures, it is recommended that you partner with professional QA engineers in the process to avoid unforeseen technical issues.
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