Testing in the Cloud: The Advantages of Cloud-based Test Automation

What is cloud testing?

It is a specific process wherein cloud computing resources of a third-party service provider can be used so that software applications can be tested accordingly. Cloud resources such as cloud-native software as a service (SaaS) offerings or architecture are being tested. Cloud tools can also be tactically used as a part of a Quality Assurance (QA) strategy.

When cloud resources are being tested by organizations it means downtime of the associated platform or infrastructure is minimized, data security will be available and optimal performance is ensured. Cloud-based SaaS products are tested by organizations to make sure that applications are properly functioning. When other types of applications are being tested by organizations, cloud computing tools can be used.  Cloud-based test automation can also prove to be effective as testing costs can be reduced and collaboration efforts can be enhanced between QA teams.

The following are the advantages of cloud-based test automation:

1. Leveraging cloud automation tools: The following are a few cost-related aspects that can be saved by incorporating cloud automation tools:

·     In-house infrastructure set up

·     Upgrade installation and regular maintenance on the environment and devices

·     The licensing costs of the software

·     The service provider manages the configuration aspects and hence human errors will not occur. The cost incurred in associated rework and reconfiguration is also removed.

2. Crucial resources are saved: When cloud-based test automation is implemented, time is saved on the following aspects:

• The initial set-up of the devices or environment
  
  
• The time spent for carrying out maintenance, installation and upgrades is reduced to a great extent
  
  
• Coding time is saved through the strategic use of cloud-based test automation
  
  
•  The overall testing time is also reduced.

3. A robust disaster recovery mechanism is provided: When a cloud-based test automation platform is used, the data related to testing and development is stored across systems on the cloud. A robust disaster recovery approach is offered by cloud service providers. The storage of huge data is facilitated and systems are automatically monitored on the cloud.