Top 10 skills to learn in software automation testing

The demand for automation testers is rapidly growing, making them increasingly sought-after in the tech industry.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Software developers, quality assurance analysts and testers are expected to experience an explosive 25% growth from 2021-2031 – far outstripping the average rate of all other occupations.

On average, an astounding 162,900 job openings for software developers, quality assurance analysts and testers will be available annually over the next decade.

Since the demand for automation testers is quickly escalating, it is prompting more and more individuals to develop their skills in this area.

In this article we will briefly answer the following question:

• What is Software Automation Testing?
• Why is Software Automation Testing needed?
• What are the top 10 skills to learn in Software Automation Testing?

So, let’s get started!

What Is Software Automation Testing?

Software Automation Testing is an essential tool for businesses looking to ensure quality and accuracy in the software development process. It is the process of testing software using specialized tools and automated scripts to verify that our products are capable of meeting their desired performance standards and overall functionality.

Automation testing is a cutting-edge Software testing approach created to evaluate how the final product or service stacks up against pre-set expectations.

An Automation Tester, otherwise known as a SDET (Software Development Engineer in Test), is an individual who amalgamates the tasks of both a tester and developer.

Develop your knowledge of SDET and learn how to become an expert in the field by reading: What is SDET?

Why Is Software Automation Testing Needed?

• Automation testing minimizes errors, reduces manual effort, and helps developers quickly detect issues with their code.
• Automation makes testing easier and more efficient, allowing developers to focus on developing robust applications.
• By automating software tests, companies can identify problems quickly and efficiently, saving time and money in the development process.
• Automation also enables businesses to test a vast array of scenarios at once, giving them insight into how their application works under different conditions.
• Automation testing is essential for businesses looking to produce quality and reliable products on time.

What Are The Top 10 Skills To Learn In Software Automation Testing?

• Knowledge of Software Testing Principles and Concepts: To effectively test software, it is indispensable to have a thorough comprehension of the various principles that encompass the testing process- such as developing test strategies and designs, debugging systems, validating output results, automating frameworks and more.

• Programming Languages: Automation testers must possess a diversity of development skills–familiarity with an array of programming languages is critical. Java, C++, and Python remain some of the most prevalent languages used to create software applications.
  Having knowledge in one or more brings versatility to an automation tester’s skill set, enabling them to build powerful tools that drive software quality and reliability.

• Knowledge of Software Automation Testing Tools: In order to excel in automation testing, testers must have comprehensive knowledge and extensive practice using automation tools.Additionally, it is essential to understand which tool will be most suitable for the task at hand since each job may require different approaches and techniques to validate its success.

  Choosing the right software automation testing tool can be a daunting task, but there are many options available to choose from. Popular tools like Selenium, UFT/QTP (Unified Functional Testing), Cucumber, TestComplete, Appium and Ranorex have proven effective in streamlining test processes while ensuring accuracy and quality of results.

• Database Querying: Testing the data integrity of software applications requires an aptitude for writing complex queries against databases.Automation testers must possess the capability to craft intricate queries that can be employed against a database to guarantee the validity of any software application they are testing.

• Test Design and Execution: Automation testers must have comprehensive knowledge and expertise to design, develop, and execute test plans, scripts, and other strategies that guarantee maximum testing coverage.Automated tests are often used for regression testing, which means multiple rounds of tests will be conducted over time as the product or system evolves.
  This requires tests to not only detect bugs and errors but also to detect any changes that affect the existing tests.

• GUI Testing: Automation testers must have a comprehensive understanding of how to properly assess graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for both performance and functionality.Automation testing of GUI-based applications can help testers to detect potential security vulnerabilities in the software.

• Familiarity with Test Management Tools: To ensure an optimal level of quality, automation testers should be well-versed in popular test management tools such as HP Quality Center and TestLink among others.Furthermore, familiarity with defect tracking programs like Bugzilla, Mantis and JIRA is recommended to accurately keep track of any bugs that are found during testing.

• Source Code Version Control:Automation testers should have a good understanding of source code version control systems for effective testing. Version control systems such as GIT, SVN, or CVS provide invaluable support for tracking and managing source code changes throughout the development process.

  These systems ensure that any changes made to the source code are tracked and can be reverted if problems arise. Automation testers who are familiar with version control systems can easily identify and review any changes that may impact their tests and verify whether those changes have been successfully incorporated into the available software builds.

• Soft Skills: Along with technical know-how, automation testers must also possess the essential soft skills to succeed. Automation testing involves working closely with developers, so it is important for automation testers to have excellent communication and collaboration skills.Additionally, to be successful in software testing, it is imperative to have the ability to work as a team, think critically and solve problems quickly while also maintaining an efficient sense of time management.

Conclusion

Overall, software automation testing requires a variety of technical and interpersonal skills in order to be successful.

By honing the above-mentioned skills, automation testers can ensure that their tests are thorough and effective.

For those interested in pursuing a career in Software Automation Testing, it is essential to become knowledgeable of the required concepts and tools. A powerful way to master these theoretical and practical elements is by enrolling in an intensive Software Testing Course that offers comprehensive instruction.

Even experienced Automation testers should stay up-to-date on the latest trends in software testing and continue to build a broad range of skills relevant for their field and constantly strive to develop and elevate their skills, whether through an engaging Software Testing Course or attending a stimulating and informative conference. With the right skills in place, automation testers can ensure that software applications are properly tested and released on time.

Happy Testing!