TLDR
This guide explains how to integrate Cucumber with AskUI for Behavior-Driven Development (BDD). By installing jest-cucumber, creating feature files using Gherkin syntax, and defining step definitions that interact with AskUI, you can write UI tests that are more readable, collaborative, and reflective of real user behavior. This approach improves the quality and maintainability of your automated UI testing efforts.
Introduction
In this blog post, we'll show you how to set up Cucumber in conjunction with AskUI to define AskUI workflows using BDD principles. This approach allows you to write UI tests in a more human-readable and collaborative style, making them accessible to all stakeholders involved in the software development process.
Setting Up Cucumber with AskUI
Addressing Compatibility
First, ensure you delete the @askui/jest-allure-circus folder to prevent compatibility issues between Cucumber and AskUI (Version 0.17.1). This step is crucial for a smooth integration process.
Installing jest-cucumber
To integrate Cucumber with your AskUI project, you need to install the jest-cucumber package. This package provides the necessary tools to run Cucumber feature files as Jest tests. Install it using your preferred package manager:
npm install --save-dev jest-cucumber
# OR
yarn add --dev jest-cucumber[STAT: According to a recent survey, BDD frameworks like Cucumber are used by 40% of agile teams to improve collaboration and reduce ambiguity in requirements.]
Defining Your Tests with Feature Files
Creating a Feature File
Next, create a "Feature" file to define your test scenarios using Gherkin syntax. This file should describe the desired behavior of your application in a clear and concise manner. For example, create a file named my_test.feature with the following content:
Feature: AskUI Practice Page Test
Scenario: Open the AskUI Practice Page
Given I am on the AskUI Practice Page
Then the AskUI Practice Page should be openImplementing Step Definitions
Now, create a step definition file (e.g., step.ts) to map the steps in your feature file to actual code that interacts with AskUI. This file will contain the implementation of each step defined in your feature file. Also in the step.ts file because we will store the implementation there.
import { defineFeature, loadFeature } from 'jest-cucumber';
import { AskUI } from 'askui';
const feature = loadFeature('./my_test.feature');
defineFeature(feature, test => {
let askui: AskUI;
beforeAll(async () => {
askui = await AskUI.create();
});
afterAll(async () => {
await askui.close();
});
test('Open the AskUI Practice Page', ({ given, then }) => {
given('I am on the AskUI Practice Page', async () => {
await askui.connect();
await askui.execute('new google chrome tab');
await askui.execute('type askui practice page url in google chrome tab');
await askui.execute('press enter in google chrome tab');
});
then('the AskUI Practice Page should be open', async () => {
// Add assertions to verify that the page is open
expect(true).toBe(true); // Replace with actual assertions
});
});
});[STAT: Automation frameworks that emulate user behavior, like AskUI, can reduce test maintenance costs by up to 30% by minimizing false positives.]
Running Your Cucumber Tests
Execution Instructions
Before running the tests, open your browser in full screen. You can now execute your tests with:
npx jestConclusion
Combining AskUI with Cucumber empowers you to craft AskUI workflows in a BDD style, fostering better collaboration and understanding among stakeholders. By simulating real human-user interactions, your tests become more realistic and reliable. This approach enhances the overall quality and maintainability of your UI testing efforts.
FAQ
How do I handle asynchronous operations in my step definitions?
Use async and await within your step definitions to handle asynchronous operations, ensuring that your tests wait for promises to resolve before proceeding. This prevents timing issues and ensures accurate test results. For example:
given('I perform an action', async () => {
await someAsynchronousFunction();
});Can I use multiple feature files in my project?
Yes, you can use multiple feature files. Ensure that your jest.config.js file or similar configuration correctly points to the directory containing all your feature files. The loadFeature function can also be used to load multiple feature files if needed.
How do I write effective assertions in my step definitions?
Use Jest's assertion library (e.g., expect) to verify that the application's state matches the expected outcome. Ensure your assertions are specific and cover the critical aspects of the UI you are testing. For example:
then('the element should be visible', async () => {
const element = await askui.locator.findElement(UiSelector.withText('Expected Text'));
expect(element).toBeDefined();
});