What is Keyword-Driven Testing?

Definition: Keyword-Driven Testing

Keyword-driven testing is a software testing methodology that uses predefined keywords or action words to represent test steps. Each keyword corresponds to a specific function, operation, or command that the test script executes, enabling testers to automate and manage test cases efficiently.

This approach is particularly popular in automation testing as it separates the test development from the implementation details of the test scripts, making it accessible to non-technical team members while still being powerful for advanced users.

How Keyword-Driven Testing Works

Keyword-driven testing focuses on creating reusable components (keywords) to streamline the automation process. It involves the following steps:

1. Test Design

Testers define a set of keywords corresponding to common actions or operations within the application under test (AUT). Examples include Login, Click, Enter Text, Verify Element, etc.

2. Test Script Development

A script or framework interprets these keywords to execute the corresponding automation code. This script is typically written using a programming language or a test automation tool.

3. Test Case Creation

Testers create test cases using a table-like structure, combining keywords with associated data or arguments. These test cases are independent of the underlying automation code, enabling easy updates and reuse.

4. Execution

The test automation framework reads the keywords and executes the corresponding actions on the AUT. Results are logged for further analysis.

Benefits of Keyword-Driven Testing

Keyword-driven testing offers several advantages, making it a preferred choice for many organizations:

1. Reusability

Keywords are modular components that can be reused across multiple test cases, saving time and effort.

2. Separation of Concerns

It separates the test logic from the code, enabling non-programmers to contribute to test creation while developers focus on framework development.

3. Maintainability

Changes in the application require updates only to the affected keywords, not the entire test suite, simplifying maintenance.

4. Collaboration

The method facilitates collaboration between technical and non-technical team members by providing a common language of keywords.

5. Scalability

It supports large-scale testing by breaking down complex test scenarios into manageable and reusable components.

Features of Keyword-Driven Testing

1. Framework Independence

Keyword-driven testing can be implemented using various test automation frameworks like Selenium, Appium, or proprietary tools like UFT.

2. Tool Integration

Many tools provide built-in support for keyword-driven testing, offering features like drag-and-drop keyword creation and reporting dashboards.

3. Data-Driven Capabilities

Testers can combine keyword-driven and data-driven testing to use external data sources for comprehensive test coverage.

4. Language Neutrality

Keywords abstract the complexity of the programming language, making them understandable to testers without coding knowledge.

5. Enhanced Documentation

Test cases written with keywords double as documentation, improving transparency and understanding.

How to Implement Keyword-Driven Testing

Implementing keyword-driven testing involves the following steps:

Step 1: Define Keywords

Identify the repetitive and common actions within the AUT. For example:

• Open Browser
• Navigate to URL
• Input Username
• Click Button
• Verify Text

Step 2: Create a Framework

Build or use an existing test automation framework to execute the defined keywords. This framework typically includes:

• A keyword parser to interpret keywords
• A mapping of keywords to automation scripts
• Logging and reporting mechanisms

Step 3: Design Test Cases

Use spreadsheets or specialized tools to define test cases using the predefined keywords. Specify the arguments (e.g., field values, expected results) as needed.

Step 4: Execute and Validate

Run the test cases using the framework and validate the results against the expected behavior.

Use Cases of Keyword-Driven Testing

1. Web Application Testing

Automate testing for login workflows, form validations, and navigation using reusable keywords.

2. Regression Testing

Ensure that changes to the application do not affect existing functionality by reusing keyword-driven test cases.

3. Cross-Browser Testing

Test applications across multiple browsers by writing keywords to launch, interact with, and validate actions on different platforms.

4. API Testing

Define keywords for sending requests, validating responses, and checking error handling for API endpoints.

Tools Supporting Keyword-Driven Testing

Several tools support or enhance the keyword-driven testing methodology:

1. Selenium

Supports custom keyword-driven frameworks for web applications.

2. Appium

Ideal for implementing keyword-driven testing for mobile apps.

3. UFT (Unified Functional Testing)

Built-in support for keyword-driven testing with a graphical user interface.

4. TestComplete

Provides a keyword-driven testing mode for functional testing.

5. Robot Framework

A popular open-source tool with a focus on keyword-driven and data-driven testing.

Challenges of Keyword-Driven Testing

1. Initial Setup

Creating a comprehensive set of reusable keywords and a robust framework requires significant initial investment.

2. Maintenance

Frequent application changes may necessitate updates to keywords, impacting maintainability.

3. Learning Curve

Team members may require training to effectively use the keyword-driven testing approach and tools.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to Keyword-Driven Testing