Enterprises that incorporate DevOps models aim to shift the paradigm from time-constrained and outdated linear practices that depend on manual testing to a more comprehensive and cyclic model that integrates development with operations. At the core of all DevOps, models is a focus on agility which is achieved through applying automation to various elements of a software delivery pipeline, particularly with DevOps testing. Adopting this approach results in quicker software delivery that can reach the market earlier and shorten lead time. This article further examines the importance of DevOps test automation, the current best practices, and emerging trends to follow for your enterprise in 2022 that will ensure high-quality and reliable software that can be achieved in a shorter delivery cycle.

Building Mature DevOps Test Automation Frameworks 

The first step in successfully incorporating DevOps automation testing for your enterprise is to build a reliable framework for conducting the tests required. You may start by building automation testing flows that are easier to execute and gradually increase their coverage over time. Simple, predictable, and repetitive flows take up the majority of testing time in most cases. Overcomplicating a single test flow may make it harder for you to catch errors when a test case fails.

It is also good practice to keep test cases independent and separate. You may schedule tests to be executed across different environments at any given time, and when the tests are self-contained, it becomes easier to catch errors in isolation. When the DevOps test automation framework is built, it must be accessible to all team members. It will shorten the learning curve, offer seamless integration into your CI/CD pipeline, and the ability to run on any infrastructure with minimal maintenance. Building a reliable DevOps test automation framework is vital as you do not want the upkeep and maintenance of your DevOps test automation to outweigh the benefits. 

Infrastructure Automation (IA) 

In addition to having a DevOps test automation framework, many enterprises are adopting infrastructure automation tools to automate their processes. This includes support for multi-cloud and hybrid-based workflows and hybrid work environments where employees in remote and on-site locations can work in cohesion without disrupting the overall workflow. IA tools aim to automate code deployment, server provisioning, and configuration management that enable teams to work with better consistency and speed while reducing human error through these processes.

Another emerging trend is adopting infrastructure as code(IAC). IAC is the process of managing computer data centers through machine-readable definition files rather than configuring hardware physically. In a DevOps environment, IAC tools can reduce the complexity of manual configuration that invariably kills efficiency. It also increases transparency and brings visibility to all enterprise members regarding the state and configuration of your servers, allowing team members to maximize their workflow. A popular trend emerging in 2022 is enterprises shifting to serverless computing. This further increases efficiency and dependability, allowing enterprises to focus on high-priority tasks without having to manage infrastructure maintenance. Infrastructure automation allows for proper resource allocation and the self-service of all team members to be well planned, organized, and executed.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) 

One of the more popular emerging trends of DevOps in 2022 is applying AI capabilities to as many stages of the software delivery pipeline. There has been a lot of emphasis on enterprises making their pipeline transparent, so there is greater visibility into the SDLC. Gathering information, however, is a time-consuming process, with decision-making having to rely on human judgment. The future of DevOps test automation aims at obtaining, documenting, and presenting data in an easy-to-digest manner. This makes decision-making more democratic and easier, bridging the gap and creating an interface between data and humans.

In addition to this, intelligent data can be used to predict conflicts in advance. AI can be used to find the location of bugs, the potential reason for errors, and possible resolutions to the problem. The high speed and accuracy of AI provide better returns on investments for your enterprise and allow for a streamlined approach to your SDLC. New terms like AIOps and DataOps are gaining traction, which will continue to gain popularity as the year unfolds.

Also read how DevOps and Test Automation are inseparable 

Conclusion 

DevOps have proven to be a highly robust and reliable model to adopt for enterprises looking to deliver better quality software more efficiently. DevOps are continuously evolving and shaping the future for the entire IT industry. DevOps Test automation is getting better and more efficient every year, with groundbreaking discoveries made and implemented by enterprises looking to push and expand their boundaries.

Adopting DevOps test automation in your enterprise has never been more relevant than it is today. It provides scalability and an opportunity to meet industry standards as your enterprise grows. If you have been on the fence about adopting DevOps practices, 2022 is the year to make that shift and watch your enterprise flourish.

 

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