Software security remains an issue even after the advancements in software development over the years. Through test automation, you can improve speed, find errors, scale up or down and fix features and tools.
Test automation accelerates the process of testing and deploying applications while reducing human errors.
What is a CI/CD pipeline?
A CI/CD pipeline automates the software delivery process by building code, running test (CI), and deploying the updated version of the application (CD). By using automated pipelines, you can eliminate errors, provide feedback to developers, and introduce fast product iterations.
CI/CD in software engineering is the constant integration, delivery, and deployment. It brings together operation and development teams pushing automation in building, testing, and deployment of the application.
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Let’s take a look at how test automation can secure your CI/CD pipeline.
Identify the tests: Not all tests will run smoothly if automated. Here, you need to put in your discretion and identify the test cases to be automated. Categorize, and list out the tests that need automated testing and the ones which need manual testing. Moreover, you also need to assess the frequency and timing of the test.
Run tests for a short span: For an optimal execution of a test, ensure that you run it on a clean slate with no smudges or residuals from the previous test. To this end, temporary environments are used that can be discarded after the test is done. You can use a container that reduces the effect of myriad host environments while also offering API integration.
One-click code migration: When making changes in the code, it is always necessary to migrate the same to the production. And this calls for more bandwidth. Solution? Automate the process. With a one-click solution, you can save your time that will go into making the changes.
Central location for the code: A central repository for maintaining the source code is crucial where developers are constantly pushing codes. This helps you to keep track of all the updated source codes and whether they are in sync with the latest versions.
Better transparency: For smooth operations, different teams be it QA, developers or others need to be in sync. For this, constant integration is needed which helps boost transparency among different teams and stakeholders. And with CI everyone on board can access and get progress updates on tests.
Continuous feedback system: With feedback, it becomes easier for the teams to know where they stand. They can re-write tests to do away with the dubious reports. Developers are in a better state to check and track their test scripts, add features if provided with regular feedback. It also apprises one of the tests that are glitchy, fail often, or are slow.
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Conclusion
You know how instrumental automation is in the cycle of software development from testing to deployment. Your team can improve the efficiency of running tests on a wider scale. Besides, it bridges the gap between the development and QA teams by optimizing the test procedures and documenting processes. Get in touch for more information on test automation.