So, you are a QA engineer and targeting your goal to become a test automation specialist. The good news is you have already covered half of the journey towards becoming a professional in automation testing services. Understanding the core QA processes and manual testing practices is the base for further skills development. What to do next? Here are some things to add to your checklist.
Learn How to Code
On the one hand, it seems obvious. Coding skills are what opens the way to software automation testing jobs. On the other hand, some test automation engineers do just fine with using simple codeless tools. So what’s the golden mean?
You can start with tools that don’t require coding skills to build automation scripts and gain knowledge of specific programming languages later on. Use tools like TestProject and Leapwork – they are easy to learn and use.
There are many ways to implement codeless automation. You can use a screen recorder to record, execute, and analyze your automated tests without a single line of code. One more option is tools with a visual drag and drop interface that allow creating user flows that automating repetitive actions.
Then, you’ll need to decide what programming language to learn. For this, consider the following aspects:
- What languages are used in your company?
- Which one is the most widely used in general?
- What are the specifics of a language (e. g. syntax)?
- Is the variety of tools vast enough?
If you already know to code, you have a significant advantage and can get started with using more advanced tools. These days, testing tools support a plethora of programming languages inside just one unit. Many test automation solutions offer cross-platform, cross-browser, and cross-device testing so you can find a multi-purpose tool instead of using several. Also, some of the tools encourage add-ons and integration with external tools. Check if the automation tool that you decide to use has this capability – it can be really useful.
Gain Automation-Specific Knowledge
A list of essential skills for test automation engineer features knowledge of the core automation terms, practices, techniques, and popular tools.
For example, Automation Testing Life Cycle has a familiar flow but comes with some nuances. Test planning, design, and development imply careful prioritizing of product features, for only some will be covered by automated tests. Scripts should be reusable and easy to maintain. Therefore, an automation specialist needs to understand product architecture well. Moreover, the test review should be frequent, and the assessment requires critical evaluation.
Another important thing is learning how to create a test automation strategy. To some extent, it will be similar to a manual software testing strategy, only with more steps and layers. For example, you need to have a good understanding of the tech aspects of a product to prioritize test cases and choose suitable tools. Also, you need to know the difference between different frameworks to write efficient scripts.
Build Your Network
Join test automation communities and visit conferences on software testing. It will help to learn more about specific aspects of coding in quality assurance. Besides, this is not just a tip for progressing in your automation career; this is standard practice across any career.
Join test automation communities – be it LinkedIn groups like Coded UI Automation Engineers, Slack channels, or any other resources. If they specialize in test automation services, the members will discuss the best practices and innovations. You can use this information to enhance your skills.
Interact, ask questions, and contribute as well. Don’t shy away from asking questions – it will help you learn more. In fact, there are many specialists ready and glad to share their expertise.
As for software testing conferences, there are several big events hosted around the world where you can view tech presentations and interact with professionals. You will find people discussing all the dimensions of testing, test automation, and about the new trends that you can incorporate.
One more option is participating in webinars – conferences hosted on the web and attended remotely. Browse the meetup website to look up meeting points regarding the topics of interest as well.
Find a Mentor
It would be great to find a person with experience in test automation who will help you to study. Virtual communities are great. However, sometimes you need a piece of advice here and now, and some complicated tools or practices are easier to grasp during a workshop.
We would recommend looking for a mentor in your network. Start with a QA company you work at. Ask your friends who work in QA. If there is no one willing or able to help, browse social media communities and forums.
Be Proud of Your Accomplishments but Keep Learning
“How to become a test automation engineer?” isn’t a question with a one-off answer. The tech market in general and QA, in particular, are very dynamic. To keep one’s skills relevant, a person should continue learning throughout their career. New technologies require innovative approaches and out-of-the-box solutions. New tools, frameworks, and adds-on appear all the time. The more practices you are familiar with, the more efficient your work will be.
Bottom Line
So how to become an automation engineer? Get ready to study a lot! Start with learning the basics of QA and testing – that’s the base for building the rest of the relevant skills. You will also need knowledge of field-specific terms and practices as well as programming languages. Remember that you don’t have to figure out everything on your own. Find a mentor, join testing communities, visit events related to test automation. But first of all, set a clear goal that will make all these steps worth completing.