Evolution of Our Appian Automated Testing Solution: Since 2018 to Present
As an Appian services partner, we have developed and refined our Appian Automated Testing solution over several years. This tool is crucial for reducing the challenges and time associated with testing in each sprint, a common issue in all Appian projects.
We believe that providing a brief description of the main stages can help you understand how valuable our solution can be for your project.
To clarify, in case you're not familiar with us, our solution is an automated testing solution that enables the creation of automated tests even before the layout is prepared. It's designed to be used by users with no technical knowledge, comparing its complexity to the ease of using an email system or adding an invoice in any platform.
First Stage: Creation of the Initial Framework (2018)
From the beginning, we realized the significant challenges of manual testing in each sprint. Constant changes, repetitive tasks, and the accumulation of processes in the project became significant hurdles. In 2018, the idea emerged to create a solution that would turn this difficulty into an opportunity. Our initial framework yielded tangible results:
- Rapid construction of tests through screens.
- Reuse of tests and their association.
- Data generation management for deeper tests.
- Streamlining User Acceptance Tests (UATs).
This approach was a great success but also made us aware that we had a long road ahead.
Second Stage, Around 2020: Enhanced Accessibility (Improvements in User Interface and Documentation)
The second stage focused on making the solution more accessible to a broader audience. It was essential that more users could build tests in a single environment, and developers could execute them autonomously.
We introduced tools like Git and created evidence in video and Word formats for long-duration UATs. This allowed us to address existing Appian projects and efficiently resolve regression issues.
Third Stage in 2021: Acceleration of Capabilities (Integrations and Automation)
The third stage marked a significant acceleration. UATs became more complex, comparison tests more demanding, and the need for multiple integrations grew. We implemented features that enable test execution in Kubernetes and the comparison of PDF, Excel, and Word files with dynamic data. Now, we can collect and use data directly from databases, representing a significant advancement.
Current Stage: Enhancing Usability for the End User
Although we have empowered Appian Automated testing and implemented many new features, we always wonder: Do users with no technical experience find it easy to use? The answer led us to a new goal: to make the use of our solution as simple as making a purchase on Amazon or managing email.
In our completely revamped interface, you will find a tree structure, copy-paste functions for entire blocks, advanced searches, eye-catching and easily understandable markers, and detailed evidence of all steps presented in tables for users, along with words, videos, etc.
Now, any user, such as a manual tester, can use AAT almost immediately, building automated tests and, when integrated into the project, gaining a functional pulse and visibility.
Upcoming Challenges
Our future challenges will depend on our clients' needs and our ongoing pursuit of excellence in the world of Appian. Naturally, we will be attentive to the specific requirements of our clients who have allowed us to progress, as well as the challenges posed by new clients and projects.
For example, are you interested in the idea of combining functional tests with performance tests?
