The test automation tool creates a set of scripts that emulates the user action to be performed on the Application Under Test (AUT) and replays them over and over with minimal or no human intervention. Test automation is a complete process, which goes through distinct phases to automate test cases for applications under the test. The AUT can belong to any technology or domain.
Test automation should start very early in the life cycle of the project and its success depends upon the following:
Knowledge of the automation life cycle
Processes in test automation
Selection of the right tool
Test automation planning
Appropriate technical know-how about automation and test automation tools
The key driving and guiding forces for successful test automation are the automation goals, best practices, selection criteria, and attributes for tool selection and processes.
Good knowledge in these areas helps implement the test automation in an effective way.