The keyword-driven test approach is a software testing methodology that uses a combination of keywords and instructions to create test cases. In this approach, test cases are divided into keywords, which represent a specific action or test step, and associated data values.
The following are the key steps in the keyword-driven test approach:
- Identify keywords: Keywords represent a specific action or test step, such as “login,” “click on,” “verify,” etc. These keywords are predefined and stored in a keyword repository.
- Define test cases: Test cases are created by combining keywords and associated data values. For example, a test case may involve the keywords “login,” “enter username,” and “enter password,” along with the associated data values.
- Create keyword library: A keyword library is a collection of keywords and their corresponding automation code or instructions. The keyword library serves as a repository of all the available keywords and their functionalities.
- Map keywords to test cases: Each test case is mapped to a set of keywords and associated data values. This mapping determines the specific actions to be performed during test execution.
- Implement automation code: The automation code associated with each keyword is implemented to drive the execution of the test case. This code contains the instructions to perform the desired test step.
- Execute test cases: The test cases are executed by running the automation code associated with each keyword. The code triggers the corresponding action and validates the expected results.
- Maintain and update keyword library: The keyword library needs to be maintained and updated regularly to ensure that it reflects any changes in the application being tested. New keywords can be added, and existing keywords can be modified or deleted as per the requirements.