Factors to Consider When Choosing a Test Automation Management Tool

Ever since the advent of test automation, software testing has never been the same. In the last decade aur so, software testing has come a long way what it was earlier. With the advent of test automation, came the new age concepts of agile and DevOps.

As Agile and DevOps grows in popularity, there will be a growing need for concepts like continuous testing, which is not possible to implement with manual approach. This calls for implementation of test automation with the help of test automation management tools. QARA Enterprise is an example of automation Testing tool that is designed for end2end test management. Example of such a tool is Katalon Studio which is also an effective solution for test automation and test management.

However, choosing a test automation management tool is not as easy as it appears to be. There are certain Factors that need to be considered in order to make the right choice to meet the specific goals of the QA team.

1] Goals to Achieve in the Project

The first thing that one needs to consider when choosing a test automation management tool is the purpose. What exactly does one want to achieve with the tool? Every project is different with different set of goals, so it is very important for QA teams to identify the goals first, and then look for a tool that serves the purpose.

2] Need for Training to Implement Automation

Now this one is also important. The tool one chooses for test automation and Management is largely dependent on the skill level water resources involved. Are the resources trend in test automation? If yes, test automation management tool with steep learning curve can be chosen. Otherwise, if the team mostly comprises of people who are switching from manual to automation testing, a tool with the short learning curve is the best choice.

3] The Programming Language to Go With

The time taken to learn a new tool is much shorter when the QA team can use a programming language that they are comfortable working with. Hence, it's important to choose a tool that is based on a language that the team has been using so far.

Not every test automation tool uses the same programming language, which makes this factor even more important.

4] Support for Integrations

Integrations with third party tools adds to the test automation experience. Every test automation management tool comes with different set of integrations. Since each integration is designed for a different functionality, it's very important to consider the integrations the project would require and then choose a tool accordingly. 

5] The Budget for the Tool

Last but not the least, the budget for the test automation management tool is an important factor to consider. The fact remains that budget is something that one cannot ignore. Once the budget is fixed, next step is to prepare a list of all the tools that match the budget criteria.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, the browsers and platforms on which the application is to be tested, should also be given a thought. Before Choosing a test automation tool, it's important have a discussion with QA team regarding the exact requirements to look for. Choosing the right tool can really help the team achieve the desired testing goals.