Test script design approaches supporting reusability, maintainability and review process

Abstract: Software testing is widely considered to be one of the most important parts of software development life-cycle. In this research, we investigated potential improvements in the testing process and design of automated test scripts inside Bombardier Transportation. For the creation of automated test scripts BT is using a group of programs called TAF (Test Automation Framework). These scripts are used for testing Train Control Management System (TCMS), software that is used for managing the train. TAF can export its test scripts in XML format. XML scripts are analyzed in order to identify the most frequent changes. To better understand the life cycle of automated Test scripts official documentation that defines the Verification and Validation process inside BT was analyzed. Also, an interview was conducted with one of the responsible persons for testing. We believe that we have found a possible solution for improving testing process and creation of automated test scripts in BT, and to evaluate it proof of concept tool was developed. The main idea behind the tool is to write the test script using keywords which are based on analysis that was conducted on test specification documentation. These keywords represent frequent actions that are being tested on the train. By storing those actions in keywords re-usability of test script is being increased. Also, because they are based on naturally language, they are having positive effect on readability and maintenance of the test script.