Test automation principles

Test automation usually reduces the overall testing effort by decreasing the time which QA analysts have to spend on repeatable tasks. Quite often automation also adds more depth to the testing process without reducing the actual effort.

This document sets out the principles and recommendations to be considered when starting a test automation project. It is based on our experience with testing matching engines, smart order routers, order management and execution management systems, straight through processing, risk management and position keeping systems and front- middle- and back-office platforms. We describe items we believe will have a significant impact on the effort involved in creating test harnesses and comprehensive libraries of automated tests.