A Library Architecture Automation Framework is a structured, modular automation framework that organizes reusable functions (also called libraries) to handle specific, repeated actions across test scripts. This framework promotes reusability by storing common functions or "libraries" that can be used across multiple test cases. Each library contains a collection of functions or methods, each focused on specific operations, making the framework more efficient and reducing code duplication.
In this framework, the application is not modularized at the page level (like in the Page Object Model) but rather functionally—by grouping related actions and utilities into libraries, which can then be called as needed in different test scripts.
Key Features of the Library Architecture Framework
Functional Grouping:
Functions are organized into libraries based on similar or related functionalities. For example, all login-related functions might be stored in a "LoginLibrary," while navigation-related functions might be in a "NavigationLibrary."
Reusability:
Each library function is designed to be reusable across multiple test cases. Instead of writing the same action in multiple scripts, test cases call the necessary library functions, reducing redundancy and improving maintainability.
Separation of Test Logic and Functions:
The test cases focus only on the high-level sequence of actions, while the libraries contain the detailed implementation of each action. This improves readability and reduces maintenance costs, as updates are only required in the libraries if the application changes.
Scalability:
The framework can be expanded easily by adding new libraries or functions. As applications evolve, additional functionality can be added to existing libraries or new libraries can be created without impacting test scripts.
Modular and Organized Structure:
Test cases become modular by leveraging libraries, which enhances organization and makes the framework easy to scale and manage, especially in complex projects.
Pros and Cons of Library Architecture Frameworks
Pros | Cons |
High reusability of library functions | Initial setup requires planning and function definition |
Easy maintenance by updating only libraries | May require coordination to avoid redundant libraries |
Better organization and separation of logic | Can be complex to manage with many libraries |
Scalable with new libraries and functions as needed | Requires a disciplined approach to prevent overlap in functionality |
Structure of a Library Architecture Framework
Library Files:
These files store reusable functions organized by functionality. For example:
LoginLibrary might handle user authentication actions.
NavigationLibrary could contain functions for moving between different sections of an application.
UtilityLibrary could have common utilities like waits, logging, or data handling.
Test Scripts:
Test scripts are composed by calling functions from relevant libraries to perform actions. The test scripts define the sequence of actions needed for each test case, while the libraries handle the underlying details.
Configuration Files (optional):
Settings such as test environment URLs, credentials, and test data may be stored in separate configuration files to keep the framework organized and maintainable.
Example of a Library Architecture Framework in Selenium with Java
Suppose we’re testing an e-commerce application with login, navigation, and checkout functionality.
Step 1: Define Library Files for Reusable Functions
import org.openqa.selenium.By; import org.openqa.selenium.WebDriver;
public class LoginLibrary {
WebDriver driver; public LoginLibrary(WebDriver driver) { this.driver = driver; }
public void login(String username, String password) {
driver.findElement(By.id("username")).sendKeys(username); driver.findElement(By.id("password")).sendKeys(password); driver.findElement(By.id("loginButton")).click(); }
public void logout() { driver.findElement(By.id("logoutButton")).click(); }
}import org.openqa.selenium.By; import org.openqa.selenium.WebDriver;
public class NavigationLibrary { WebDriver driver; public NavigationLibrary(WebDriver driver) { this.driver = driver; }
public void goToHomePage() {
driver.findElement(By.id("homeLink")).click(); }
public void goToProfilePage() { driver.findElement(By.id("profileLink")).click(); }
}import org.openqa.selenium.WebDriver; import org.openqa.selenium.support.ui.WebDriverWait; import org.openqa.selenium.support.ui.ExpectedConditions;
public class UtilityLibrary { WebDriver driver; public UtilityLibrary(WebDriver driver) { this.driver = driver; } public void waitForElement(By locator, int timeout) { new WebDriverWait(driver, timeout).until(ExpectedConditions.visibilityOfElementLocated(locator)); }
public void clearCookies() { driver.manage().deleteAllCookies(); }
}Each library here encapsulates functions related to specific functionality, like login, navigation, and utility functions.
Step 2: Write Test Scripts by Calling Library Functions
import org.openqa.selenium.WebDriver; import org.openqa.selenium.chrome.ChromeDriver; import org.testng.annotations.AfterMethod; import org.testng.annotations.BeforeMethod; import org.testng.annotations.Test;
public class ECommerceTest {
WebDriver driver;
LoginLibrary loginLibrary;
NavigationLibrary navigationLibrary;
UtilityLibrary utilityLibrary;
@BeforeMethod
public void setUp() {
driver = new ChromeDriver();
driver.get("https://example-ecommerce.com");
// Initialize each library with the WebDriver instance
loginLibrary = new LoginLibrary(driver);
navigationLibrary = new NavigationLibrary(driver); utilityLibrary = new UtilityLibrary(driver); }
@Test
public void completeShoppingTest() {
utilityLibrary.clearCookies();
loginLibrary.login("user123", "pass123"); navigationLibrary.goToHomePage();
// Additional test actions can go here using library functions
loginLibrary.logout(); }
@AfterMethod
public void tearDown() { driver.quit(); }
}In ECommerceTest.java, functions from LoginLibrary, NavigationLibrary, and
UtilityLibrary are called as needed to perform the test. The test script only defines the sequence of actions, while the actual details are encapsulated within the libraries.
Benefits of Using Library Architecture Framework in Large Applications
High Reusability: Libraries can be reused across test cases, which significantly reduces redundancy in test scripts.
Simplified Maintenance: If an application’s functionality changes, only the relevant library needs to be updated.
Improved Organization: The framework’s modular structure keeps functions organized, making it easier to manage and update as the application grows.
Enhanced Collaboration: Non-technical team members can understand test scripts without needing to see underlying implementation details.
Tools Supporting Library Architecture Frameworks
Selenium WebDriver: Works well with library architecture due to its flexibility.
TestNG or JUnit: These testing frameworks support running modular test scripts and organizing test cases.
Appium: Can be used for mobile applications with library-based architecture.
Cucumber: Can be integrated for Behavior-Driven Development (BDD), allowing Gherkin steps to call library functions.
Summary
The Library Architecture Framework is a flexible and organized approach for test automation, especially suited for complex applications with repetitive actions. By grouping related functions into libraries, this framework promotes code reuse, reduces maintenance, and supports scalability. While it requires careful planning and structuring, the long-term benefits—such as enhanced maintainability and modularity—make it highly effective for growing or dynamic applications.