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5 Key Types of Test Automation Frameworks

A test automation framework is nothing but a set of instructions that define how a test case should be executed by the test automation tool so that one gets the desired results/outcome. Test execution is nothing but an action to be performed, and like many other actions that are defined by a set of guidelines, such as boarding a flight or scuba diving, there are certain pointers, which when followed, helps bring more accurate results, prevents errors and reduces chances of failure.

The guidelines that a test automation framework brings to the table include coding standards, treatment of object repository, data handling and the likes, which are to be followed during the scripting process. It is important to note that these are guidelines and are not compulsory for test case executions. You may choose to do away with them completely, but you’ll miss out on the benefits that a framework has to offer. Here are the 5 key types of automation frameworks commonly used in the industry.

1] Linear Scripting Framework

Also known as “Record & Playback”, it is the simplest form of test automation framework that exists. This framework involves manual recording of each execution step by the QA team, such as Navigation & User Input, in the very first round of testing. The subsequent rounds only involve Playing Back the recorded scripts.

Pros:

The quickest method for script generation.
Makes it extremely easy to learn about the tool.
Requires no prior automation expertise to be carried out successfully.
Cons:

Does not allow script reuse.
Maintenance can be a challenge.
Script has data hardcoded into it.
2] Structured Scripting Framework

In this framework, test scripts are initially recorded using the “Record & Playback” method and the next step involves identification & grouping of common tasks inside the scripts into Functions, which are used by the main test script to create test cases.

Pros:

Higher levels of reuse of codes.
Easier script maintenance.
Automation scripts less expensive.
Cons:

Expertise in automation is mandatory.
Preparation of test cases can be time-consuming.
Test data is hard-coded within the code.
3] Data-Driven Framework

In this framework, Test Case logic remains within the test script while the Test Data resides outside of it. Instead, it is read from external files and attached to the variables inside the Test Script.

Pros:

Test Script modifications do not affect Test Data.
Multiple sets of data can be used to execute Test Scripts.
Different types of scenarios can be easily executed.
Cons:

Planning and execution takes time.
4] The Keyword-Driven Framework

In the Keyword-Driven Framework, development of data tables and keywords is mandatory, and this applies to any automation tool that you may use for execution. It involves documentation of the functionality of the application to be tested in a tabular form, as well as in the form of step-by-step instructions. Most automation tools today, such as QARA Enterprise and Katalon Studio, are based on the Keyword-Driven Framework.

Pros:

Very high re-usability of the codes.
Independent of the test tool used.
Independent of the Application Under Test (AUT).
Cons:

Can be expensive.
Requires high levels of automation expertise.
5] The Hybrid Framework

Just as it is evident from the name, the Hybrid Test Automation Framework is a result of the combination of one or more of the frameworks we have discussed above, and it possesses the strengths and weaknesses of the frameworks that are combined together. Interestingly, most frameworks evolve into a Hybrid framework over the course of time, and after being used in multiple projects. The most common combination prevalent in the industry is that of the Keyword-Driven Framework and the Structured Scripting Framework.

Pros & Cons:

Depends on the frameworks chosen to create the Hybrid Framework.

Every test automation framework out there has its own set of pros and cons and which one you choose depends entirely on the requirements of your team. Knowledge about the many frameworks will help you make an informed decision when it comes to the choice of the right automation tool as different tools are based on different frameworks.

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Beacons vs.Wifi: Where IoT Market is Heading in 2019

There is no denying that IoT technology has grown huge and reputed itself as the sovereign of technology in almost every business and industry. The continuous pressure to meet customer demands with leading technologies has led almost all the industry segment to adopt IoT in their business. Those enabled with IoT have benefitted themselves with the top-notch deal and stay ahead of the competition.

To give a glimpse, few leading IoT areas are transportation, manufacturing, automobile, healthcare, smart home appliances, retail and smart wearables. It has evolved big giants in the market and opened doors of success to potential new players.

With IoT in almost all things, smart devices have got smarter. Communication has become easy, readily available and feasible despite boundary and location barrier. With the commencement of wireless communication, connectivity has become more feasible than ever. Communication is not limited to wires to send signals; one can easily communicate even from the most remote areas.

Wireless Communication Options

There are two location-based wireless communication technologies that have evolved the business offering enriched customer experiences. These are none other than Wi-Fi, and iBeacon technology.

If facts are to be stated,as per a recent Forrester Research, next-generation Wi-Fi will penetrate almost 90% over the next few years.

Whereas, a report by Grand View Research states that the global Bluetooth beacon market size is likely to reach USD 58.7 billion by 2025.

Before moving forward, let’s get an understanding of both the technologies. As we all know that Wi-Fi is a wireless communication technology that uses radio waves to provide network connectivity. A Wi-Fi connection is established with the help of a wireless adapter that creates hotspots.

On the other hand, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) such as iBeacons or Beacons are signals that are used to send data over short distances. Beacon wireless technology has overpowered other technologies and now has become an alternative for Wi-Fi, especially in IoT devices and apps. All thanks to the IoT application development company for offering such services.

Why businesses prefer Wi-Fi?

Yankee Group research states that 96% of customers prefer free Wi-Fi enabled locations and there are high chances of them returning to stores for purchase
There are almost 78% of shoppers who access free Wi-Fi if offered free in-store.
As per the On Device Research survey, 74% of users are happy with retailer sending them promotional text or email while they’re using in-store Wi-Fi
Why businesses prefer Beacon technology?

Proxbook Q1 report 2016 illuminates that 1 million beacons have been deployed in the US Retail stores
Business Insider estimates that Beacon messages would trigger retail sales worth $44.4 billion in the US
Due to the inclusion of Beacon technology, 71% of retailers are able to track and understand customers’ buying patterns
If you are skeptical about the decision of choosing any one technology, there are a few important factors that must be considered before opting one. Let’s take a look at the article that would solve your dilemma and help you take a smart decision.

1) Privacy

On a Wi-Fi connection, the device will automatically look for a Wi-Fi network to connect. Retailers take advantage of Wi-Fi technology by detecting customers and sending them offers, discounts, and promote their product/services. The biggest glitch in Wi-Fi is that users are almost not aware that their devices are being tracked, traced or detected. To be secure of Wi-Fi technology, users need to disable Wi-Fi mode on their devices.

While in BLE technology, it gives more privacy and security to the users. It’s mandatory for a user to switch on the Bluetooth in their Smartphone and allow location detection. The user can choose to receive in-store or indoor notifications and save their device and data from being publically available.

2) Speed

Both Beacon and Wi-Fi technology have different aspect when it comes to speed. Beacon technology is more preferred when there is a need for transmitting small amounts of data at 1 Mbps, for instance – temperature reading, acceleration details, GPS coordinates, etc. But, one cannot rely on Beacon for sending data in real-time to a server. If there is the need to send real-time data, then a special gateway must be addressed.

On the other hand, Wi-Fi can transmit data at a speed of up to 1.3 Gbps. It can be used to send bigger files and data. BLE beacon signals are about 2-3 times slower than Classic Bluetooth and 20-30 times slower than Wi-Fi Direct.

3) Location Detection Accuracy

When a user activates Bluetooth mode on his/her device, then only Beacons can sense the location and proximity of the user and broadcast information on its device one-way. Because of its strong signal waves that can penetrate through physical objects, Beacons can easily process in poor radio frequency conditions.

Wi-Fi, on the other hand, is based on a Local Area Network (LAN) technology where two or more electronic devices are needed to communicate. It is designed to direct to the exact location by measuring access points in a device. Unlike Beacons, Wi-Fi technology doesn’t rely solely on the propinquity of the user.

However, when it comes to micro-locating, beacons are preferred choices over Wi-Fi. It is so because Wi-Fi signals are not strong enough to penetrate through solid objects like walls etc. Due to this, the proximity data provided by Beacon technology is much more accurate than Wi-Fi.

Other than the above factors, for any small and medium business owners, Wi-Fi-based proximity campaign can be really expensive.

4) Compatibility

If we talk about the compatibility of Beacon technology with devices, Beacon signals can be pulled up by any Bluetooth 4.0 enabled devices.

For Android devices, devices of version 4.3 and later is preferred, while for Apple devices, Beacon technology can be detected on version 4S and later.’

To ensure maximum compatibility of Wi-Fi with devices; for Android devices, Version 4.0 and later is preferred, whilst for Apple devices, Version 5S and later is recommended.

Conclusion

If one is looking for the best wireless communication technology, then there is no favorable answer to which is the best amongst the Beacon and i-Fi technology. Both the technologies are perfect in itself and are preferred as per the need and demand in the market.

But the acceptance is more of Beacon since its versatile and is easily available among users in smart devices. On the other hand, Wi-Fi needs an internet connection and hence is a hurdle in instant reach and connectivity. One can choose their preferred technology and undoubtedly it would give the best of seamless experience with its capabilities.

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Partnership Law: A General Overview for Professionals

A business partnership is a very special relationship. From the moment you team up with other likeminded business partners, your destinies are intertwined. Whether your enterprise flourishes or the partnership dissolves, the legal attributes of your partnership will play an important role.

Co-owners who share profits are partners by default

A partnership is defined legally as an association of two or more persons who operate as co-owners and share profits. To become a partner, an individual may make an investment of startup money, offer his or her services or both.

No written documentation is required to create a general partnership. If you are acting like partners (i.e., operating as co-owners and sharing profits), you are deemed to be part of a legal partnership. This is important because partners have certain legal rights and obligations. Of course, it is always recommended to have a written partnership agreement!

Partnership duties, rights and liabilities

In the absence of a written agreement, partners do not draw a salary and share profits and losses equally. Partners have a duty of loyalty to other partners. This duty means that, for example, partners must attend diligently to their responsibilities in the conduct of the business, and must not to enrich themselves at the expense of the partnership (for instance, a partner may not accept personal kickbacks for agreeing to a deal with a supplier at an inflated price). Partners also have a duty of accounting to the partnership, meaning they must be open and honest in disclosing business information to other partners.

Each partner also has rights, many of which derive from the right to see other partners live up to their duties. Unless the partners have agreed otherwise, each partner also has the right to participate in the day-to-day management of the business, and, importantly, to bind the firm in any act done in carrying on the business.

Since you are liable for the acts of a partner made in carrying on the business, it is imperative to choose your partners carefully, and, when necessary, to protect yourself to the extent possible through a written agreement or legal action. In a partnership, you are personally liable for business obligations; this means that if your partnership incurs debt or legal liability that the partnership cannot afford to pay, creditors are able to seek recompense by going after your personal assets.

Written partnership agreements

Even though no written agreement is required to establish a partnership, many partners choose to put a partnership agreement in place. A partnership agreement can modify the default partnership structure to better fit the needs of the individual business. Strong partnership documentation can help prevent disagreements and give the business a more well-defined direction.

A limited partnership is a special type of partnership that does require written documentation. In a limited partnership, limited partners invest money, but retain little or no control over the partnership’s operations. Unlike in a general partnership, limited partners cannot be held liable for debts incurred by the partnership.

Learn more from a partnership dispute attorney

If problems have arisen in your partnership, there are legal strategies that can help you resolve them. If you do not have a partnership agreement in place, or if your partnership agreement does not address the particular issues that have arisen in your partnership, it is especially important to get the help of an experienced partnership dispute lawyer. Talk to an attorney today to learn more.

Article provided by Brown & Charbonneau, LLP
Visit us at www.bc-llp.com

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