Low code and No code testing are methods to automate tests with minimal or no coding at all. This is a clear departure from the previous practice of working closely with the code, using ones and zeros, to now using more natural language and graphical interfaces to perform automated tasks. This methodology aims to simplify and accelerate the testing process by making it accessible to people with various levels of technical knowledge, including those who do not have deep programming skills.
Wider User Base: Low Code/No Code testing enables individuals without programming skills to create automated tests. By using visual tools and simpler interfaces, users can create and maintain automated tests without needing to delve into the details of the code. This allows organizations to streamline their testing processes and enable broader participation in testing, which ultimately can lead to faster and more agile software delivery.
User-Friendly: The whole idea with the tools within Low Code/No Code is that they should be easy to understand and use, which makes the learning time short. These tools are much more visual than traditional methods, which facilitates the work. Examples of Low Code/No Code tools are Postman flows, Jmeter, Katalon Studios and Leapworks.
One advantage of starting with Low Code/No Code is that it will hopefully get many more people started and creating. It can be advantageous in terms of cost and time, and a quick start can lead to getting much further, even if it might not always lead to achieving the final goal. There is always a risk of encountering problems later in the development that require more technical solutions, which can be expensive to solve.
With Low Code/No Code, users cannot be as detailed or solve very specific problems because the tools are intended to be generally useful and easy to use. It works great for companies that have simpler solutions, but for more technical and advanced solutions, more advanced tools and knowledge are required.
Today, it’s not a solution to start a project with Low Code/No Code and then bring in individuals with advanced technical skills halfway through. Therefore, understanding the product from the start and identifying what it needs is essential to build it right.
Quick Start and Automation: An advantage is that it is easier to get started and create something that is at least semi-automated. By using tools like these, developers can quickly create basic systems that work and meet end users’ needs. For common and general use cases, such as creating a login page, using Low Code/No Code is perfect.
Simplicity in Testing: The tools can help generate and perform many test cases quickly and generally. In testing contexts, as exemplified with a login page, these tools can handle standardized test examples, reducing the need for detailed and specialized tests. It supports thinking about and testing different scenarios without needing to be technically detailed.
Improved Collaboration between Business and Technical Teams: Low-Code/No-Code platforms enable closer collaboration between technical and non-technical team members. Business users and decision-makers can take a more active role in the development process, leading to better understanding and collaboration between different departments.
Increased Agility and Faster Adaptation to Changes: Since Low-Code/No-Code methods enable faster development and simpler changes; companies can be more flexible and adaptable to changing requirements and market conditions.
In the general development trend over the last ten years, the need to understand and use different tools has increased, and the use of Low Code/No Code introduces yet another tool that developers and testers need to understand and use. This means that to be successful, both developers and testers today need a broader base of skills and tools.
For developers, the introduction of Low Code/No Code means an increased focus on architecture and design, as well as closer collaboration with end users. It means they can dedicate more time to complex and architectural tasks, create reusable components, and maintain technically advanced parts.
The change for testers is that they can use Low Code/No Code tools for faster testing, complex test scenarios, and automated tests.
For both roles, collaboration and communication become crucial. The changes not only entail new tasks but opportunities to improve and optimize workflows to meet the demands for faster and higher quality software development.
Before you get started, there are a few important things to consider:
Learning time: Even though the purpose of these tools is to make it easier and faster than going through long trainings, there is still a certain learning curve. Using resources like YouTube and other tutorials can be a great help in getting started quickly.
Keeping Up With the World: To take advantage of the latest and most useful tools, it’s important to stay informed about what’s happening in the world. Keeping up with trends and discovering new tools that can facilitate workflow is a key component.
Understanding the Problem: It’s important to clearly understand the specific problem before choosing a tool. Using the wrong tool for a given task can lead to inefficiency and frustration. A thorough analysis of the problem is required to match it with the right tool.
Buying Tools: Choosing and purchasing the right tools is a critical part of the process. It may involve convincing decision-makers and budget holders of the tools’ value and investing in them. It’s important to consider cost-effectiveness and how the tool fits into the organization’s overall strategy.
Low Code/No Code tools are very useful as they enable quick starts and reduce the requirement for advanced technical expertise. It gives users the ability to create and manage automation for general purposes, which is beneficial for companies striving for faster and more cost-effective product development.
At the same time, it’s important to emphasize the importance of choosing tools that are best suited for the specific project and goal. Despite the advantages of quick and cost-effective development, it’s important to remember that Low Code/No Code tools cannot solve more complex and detailed problems, as they are designed to be general in their use. It’s therefore important to be aware of the limitations and consider other more technical solutions when needed to handle complexity and details in the project.