November 2010 Summaries

Robot Framework is being integrated with Sauce OnDemand to enable the definition and execution of acceptance criteria in an Acceptance Test Driven Development (ATDD) realm. The integration allows for seamless testing in both local environments and cloud-based Sauce Labs, using a variable file to decide whether to run locally or in the cloud. A custom JSON string is created to send to Sauce Labs, with variables such as username, access key, operating system, browser, and browser version being set based on user input. The integration provides flexibility for testing different permutations of these parameters, but this would require a custom runner. The script can be easily switched between local and cloud-based environments by providing the `--ondemand=true` argument, allowing for efficient management of test automation and sharing of results with stakeholders.

Sauce Wizards Make Learning Selenium Easier`, Sauce Labs has introduced three new features to simplify the process of using Selenium with their `OnDemand` service. The `Sauce Jump Start` guide is an automatic wizard that assists users in running their first cross-browser test, regardless of environment or skill level. This feature aims to make it easier for developers to get started with Selenium on `OnDemand`. Additionally, Sauce Labs has created the `Sauce Connect Wizard`, which simplifies the process of setting up a secure connection from a development site to their cloud in seconds. The `Sauce Advisor` is a smart test analyzer that provides tips and feedback to users as they run tests, helping them optimize their tests over time. These features are designed to make using Selenium with `OnDemand` more accessible and efficient for developers of all skill levels.`|>

Bamboo Sauce, a new CI plugin for Sauce OnDemand, enables Bamboo users to run builds across multiple browsers in parallel, reducing the need for costly test infrastructure. Setup is simple and requires only one-time admin configuration, with customizable build settings and support for OS/Browser combinations. The plugin also addresses Firewall issues by creating a direct SSH tunnel from the cloud to a specific server, ensuring code security. Bamboo Sauce is still in beta, but it offers a promising solution for streamlining test cycles and improving developer productivity.

The Sauce Labs OnDemand testing service is a cloud-based solution built around the Selenium testing tool, allowing users to utilize existing scripts for functionality and performance testing. The service provides "robotically controlled browsers" as a resource, addressing the issue of underutilized test resources in organizations that experience fluctuating usage. By leveraging the cloud, Sauce Labs aims to optimize resource utilization and provide a cost-effective solution for CIOs and CTOs who need to maximize their return on idle resources.

The Sauce Labs team has released a new API to support Continuous Integration servers like Hudson, Bamboo, and TeamCity in sending data about their tests to Sauce OnDemand. The API provides information such as test pass/fail status, build number, and custom data to help users find and group jobs more efficiently. Two alternative methods for sending this data are available through the REST API and Selenium's `setContext` command. The team plans to work with Hudson and Bamboo plugin authors to add support for these CI APIs in the near future.