Web Application Test Automation via Dynamic Query API
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Solution Overview
Problem
Test automation for dynamic scenarios in web applications is challenging due to variability in UI element positions based on data from databases, requiring complex scripts and deep knowledge of UI technologies, which can lead to unstable and maintenance-intensive tests.
Innovation Solution
A query API that hides HTML complexity, allowing testers to search for UI elements using filters and conditions, accessible via a Web Common User Interface (WebCUIF) framework, enabling data-agnostic testing without needing to understand internal page structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If testers use traditional automation methods to handle dynamic UI scenarios, then they can achieve basic test automation, but the test scripts become complex and maintenance-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer (the query API and abstraction framework) between the test scripts and the underlying HTML/UI implementation. This intermediary handles the complexity of dynamic UI elements, allowing testers to write simpler, more maintainable automation scripts while the framework manages the intricate details of locating and interacting with dynamically positioned UI elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the test automation system into distinct layers: the test script layer, the query API layer, and the UI implementation layer. This segmentation allows each layer to handle specific concerns independently, reducing overall complexity. The query API layer specifically handles the segmentation of UI element identification from test logic, isolating complexity to a manageable intermediary layer.
2Adaptability or versatility
If testers need to understand internal page structures and UI technologies, then they can handle dynamic scenarios, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The query API acts as an intermediary that shields testers from the need to understand complex HTML structures and UI technologies. It provides a simplified interface for querying UI elements based on business-relevant criteria rather than technical implementation details, thereby maintaining adaptability to dynamic scenarios while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an abstracted copy or representation of the UI structure that is tailored to business needs rather than technical implementation. This copied representation allows testers to work with simplified models of UI elements that capture the essential business logic without requiring knowledge of the underlying HTML complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tests are written with deep knowledge of UI syntax and structure, then they can handle variability, but the reliability of tests decreases due to maintenance intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic query system that adapts to changing UI structures without requiring test script modifications. The query API dynamically adjusts to different UI configurations and data conditions, allowing tests to reliably handle UI variability while maintaining stability. The system dynamically resolves UI element locations based on current state rather than relying on fixed positional assumptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The query system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor UI element states and adjust queries accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that tests remain reliable even when UI structures change, as the system continuously adapts its element location strategies based on current UI state information rather than relying on static assumptions.
Data Source
AI summary
A test automation system can include a web controller configured to provide access to at least one container displayed by an application and a web user interface (UI) configured to be controlled using the web controller. The system can include an application controller object configured to implement an application controller interface and expose methods for performing operations on application controls of the application and an application query object. The application query object can include at least one filter with at least one condition, the at least one condition defining an attribute or property of a UI element to check for. The application query object can be configured to return at least one UI control when the UI control includes at least one UI element that includes features that match criteria defined by the at least one filter and the at least one condition.