Test Automation in a Test Factory: an Experience Report

Abstract

Software testing is an essential activity for software quality, since it allows the identification of bugs. However, testing is an expensive activity, because it requires time and experts. As a means of reducing the testing costs, many software companies have bet on the tests automation. As the main benefit, this automation cuts down the time spent to execute the tests. Nevertheless, there are few studies in the literature about the effort required to automate tests. This experience report describes a test automation experience in a Test Factory, describing the time spent, challenges faced, and lessons learned. In addition, this article presents a process for this activity, which was defined based on the gained experience.