Scripting Calisthenics

Test automation is like a resistance training workout program; the more you do, the better and stronger you get. The dilemma with test automation projects, however, is that they are very often fleeting. When a test cycle ends, test automation often doesn’t resume until much later after a stable version of the next release comes to the test team. Other times, a project or contract ends, and the next contract does not utilize your test automation skills at all. Either of these situations could have an automator away from the test automation keyboard for an extended, even indeterminate period of time, which presents a serious challenge. Anyone that is used to weight training knows that if you stop for an extended period of time, your muscles begin to atrophy or waste away. Then, if you later attempt to resume working out with the same weight or intensity that you previously enjoyed, you risk injuring yourself. The same applies to test automation. If you stop using your test automation skills for an extended period of time, they begin to atrophy. You forget basic scripting syntax and techniques, and if you try to restart a vigorous test automation effort, you risk getting injured. Injury in the automation arena is seen in the form of failed test automation implementation, loss of credibility, loss of confidence, increased stress due to overwhelming expectations, or even job loss.

When recessing from an extremely intense automation effort, the best thing to do is go into maintenance mode, to maintain the knowledge and skill that you’ve attained. To support you in your maintenance, this article defines a program of Automation Calisthenics. Calisthenics in physical training are exercises consisting of a variety of simple movements, usually performed without equipment or with limited equipment (pull-up bar, small dumbbells, etc.), that are intended to increase body strength and flexibility using the weight of one’s own body for resistance. This will allow you to remain in shape, and maintain the physical gains that you’ve made. In the world of test automation, calisthenics are simple exercises that allow automators to maintain the automation skills that have been acquired.

To read the complete Scripting Calisthenics article, download a copy of the May 2009 issue of the Automated Software Testing Magazine at http://www.astmagazine.automatedtestinginstitute.com/. It's free!