How to Maintain Page Object Model (POM) Frameworks

The Page Object Model (POM) is one of the most popular design patterns in Selenium automation.

But just creating a POM structure isn’t enough — maintaining it properly is critical for long-term success.

Here’s how you can maintain a clean, scalable POM framework:

1. Follow a Clear Folder Structure

• Keep your framework organized with separate packages:
• pages → Page classes
• tests → Test classes
• utils → Helper classes
• resources → Test data, configuration files

✅ Makes it easy for new team members to understand the project quickly.

2. Create Small, Focused Page Classes

• Each page class should only represent one page or a major section.
• Do NOT dump unrelated methods into a page class.

✅ Smaller classes are easier to update when the UI changes.

3. Use Consistent Locator Naming

• Always name your WebElements clearly based on their purpose:

@FindBy(id = "username")
WebElement usernameInput;

@FindBy(id = "password")
WebElement passwordInput;

✅ Prevents confusion when updating locators later.

4. Avoid Hardcoding Locators

• Store locators smartly using constants if possible.
• Better yet, update locators centrally when major UI changes happen.

✅ Saves a lot of debugging time.

5. Handle Dynamic Elements Properly

• Use dynamic XPath or smart wait methods for elements that change frequently.

✅ Reduces flaky test failures caused by slow-loading or dynamic elements.

6. Centralize Common Methods

• Common functions like clickElement(), enterText(), or waitForElement() should go into a BasePage or Utility class.

✅ Keeps page classes clean and reduces code duplication.

7. Update and Refactor Regularly

• As application changes:
• Refactor page classes.
• Delete unused locators.
• Update methods to match new workflows.

✅ A maintained framework reduces technical debt over time.