Concerns about the quality of software test automation solutions are growing every day, and we face an array of challenges in addressing them. One of the challenges is that we have several test automation solutions to automate our test cases (Web, API, Mobile, etc.).
Some test automation solutions in the market require exceptionally good programming knowledge, whereas for a few, intermediate programming knowledge is enough, and we have a few where we can automate things with almost no coding experience. To top it all, there is pressure to deliver faster to the market
What is a Code-based Test Automation Solution?
Coded solutions, like traditional automation systems, necessitate a very trained workforce with an in-depth understanding of certain tech stacks. A team capable of writing custom code from scratch is required in this case. These solutions are intended to be developed and used by technical users such as SDET, developers, etc.
What are Low-Code/No-Code test automation solutions?
Low-code test automation solutions allow users to automate tests with some or little coding skill set/experience. Most of the automation testing happens without actual programming. Typically, the most used features/utilities are already built-in through GUI so that users can select the required actions and combine them into a sequence. However, coding expertise is necessary when achieving anything complex to interact.
No-code test automation solutions allow users to automate tests in the application with almost no coding knowledge and experience. These solutions are intended to be used by non-technical users such as product owners, business analysts, etc., where we would mostly need to select, click, enter text, scroll, or drag and drop.
Difference Between Code-based Vs. Low-Code/No-Code Test Automation solution
| Category | Code-based Solutions | Low-Code/No-Code Solutions |
| Coding Need | High | Low or None |
| Complexity | Overly complex | Less complex |
| Flexibility | Extremely flexible | Less flexible |
| Primarily Servers | Technical users (Developers and SDET) | Anyone who is a part of the project can contribute. |
| Security Concerns | Quite Low | High |
| Execution Speed | Low to Medium (depending on the test case count and test steps). | High |
| Automation Design | Robust | Tightly coupled |
In today’s world, where new test automation solutions are frequently released, enterprises are looking for ways to expand and accelerate their software delivery processes. Even low-code/no-code solutions now have all the necessary built-in qualities that make them simple to implement with little to no coding knowledge/expertise. The question is if it is winning hearts!
Code based Solutions
| Pros | Cons |
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Low-Code/No-Code based Solutions
| Pros | Cons |
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Since each organization works on different objectives, to deal with the question of which approach to use, here are the top few items to mull over:
- Who (Tech/Non-Tech/SDET, etc.) will create and maintain these automation test suites?
- What is getting automated – APIs/Web/Responsive/Desktop/Mobile apps?
- How complex are the test cases and business situations to be automated?
- What is the skill set/expertise within the team for creating and maintaining this test automation suite?
- Is this a new or an existing project where we have already done some automation?
- Is the test automation suite meant to be integrated with other tools like Test Management, bug tracking, CI/CD, etc.?
- The test automation suite is meant to be executed at what size?
- What is the budget and time duration required to complete this project?
Final Thoughts
It is imperative to realize that there is no silver bullet. As shown above, each choice has its own pros and cons. The key to success is choosing the right solution that balances your team’s skill sets and expertise and simultaneously meets your organization’s objectives.
Until then, happy test automation!
