Top 6 Open Source Automation Frameworks

Introduction

• Importance of using existing frameworks instead of building from scratch.
• Many frameworks are not maintainable or built by non-experts.
• Numerous open source solutions available for better test automation.

1. Serenity (formerly known as Thucydides)

• Purpose: Java-based framework integrating with BDD tools (Cucumber, JBehave).
• Key Benefits:
  • High-level test scenarios with low-level implementation details.
  • Acts as a wrapper for Selenium WebDriver and other BDD tools.
  • Reduces boilerplate code for easier test writing.
• Features:
  • Built-in functionality (WebDriver management, state management, screenshots, parallel execution).
  • Excellent reporting and documentation capabilities.

2. Robot Framework

• Purpose: Recommended for Python-based test automation.
• Key Features:
  • Mature, keyword-driven approach for readability and ease of creation.
  • Supports various testing libraries (Selenium WebDriver, FTP, MongoDB, Android).
• Ideal For: Teams primarily composed of testers.

3. Redwood HQ

• Approach: Web interface for collaborative testing.
• Capabilities:
  • Supports Java, Groovy, Python, C# code.
  • Built-in IDE for creating, modifying, and executing tests.
• Test Management: Execute tests in parallel against predefined machines with a history of test runs.

4. Sahi

• Type: Proxy server for testing web applications.
• Functionality:
  • Record and playback capabilities for easy test automation setup.
  • Guides users in capturing interactions with applications.
• Versions: Both open source and pro versions available.

5. Galen Framework

• Focus: User experience design and layout testing.
• Features:
  • Special syntax for describing and verifying layouts.
  • Generates detailed HTML reports with screenshots and visual comparisons.
  • Allows for browser size specifications for layout verification.

6. Gauge

• Details: Newer open source tool from TestWorks.
• Functionality:
  • Supports TDD and BDD, creating living executable documentation.
  • Tests (specs) written in markdown, compatible with most IDEs.
  • Extensible through plugins.
• Beta Status: Still in beta, gaining popularity among cutting-edge test developers.

Conclusion

• Before developing a custom automation framework, explore existing libraries and frameworks.
• Avoid unnecessary time spent reinventing the wheel by utilizing these open source solutions.