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Framework testing of web applications using TTCN-3

  • Special section on advances in test automation – the evolution of TTCN-3
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Abstract

Functional testing of web applications has become increasingly complex. Browser-based interfaces incorporate rich, client-side scripting that is increasingly independent of server-side application logic. At the same time, the server side application logic interacts with reusable components for key elements (security, shopping cart, product catalog, order processing) within the framework of a component-based architecture, using beans and web services. In this paper, we illustrate how a test specification approach using a language like TTCN-3 can be used to define test cases at different levels of abstraction that are more robust in the face of volatile presentation and implementation details. A case study of a shopping cart scenario with order processing is used as an illustration. Features of TTCN-3 are demonstrated, including a powerful matching mechanism that allows a separation between behavior and the conditions governing behavior. As well, TTCN-3’s data types and set-based operations allow one to track and verify the information management done by a web application, independent of implementation details. These features allow a tester to take a systematic approach to testing web applications but requires more sophistication and skills. The advantages and challenges of a test specification approach are characterized in comparison to approaches based on unit testing and test automation tools.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Information Technology and Engineering, University of Ottawa, 800 King Edward Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K1N 6N5

    Bernard Stepien, Liam Peyton & Pulei Xiong

Authors
  1. Bernard Stepien
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  2. Liam Peyton
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  3. Pulei Xiong
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Correspondence to Bernard Stepien.

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Stepien, B., Peyton, L. & Xiong, P. Framework testing of web applications using TTCN-3. Int J Softw Tools Technol Transf 10, 371–381 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10009-008-0082-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10009-008-0082-1

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