Difference between Data Driven Testing and Keyword Driven Testing

In software testing, especially automated testing, different methods and frameworks help organize test cases and make the testing process more efficient. Two popular approaches are Data Driven Testing (DDT) and Keyword Driven Testing (KDT). Both methods improve the flexibility and effectiveness of automated testing, but they differ in how they handle test data, structure tests, and apply them.

Understanding these differences is important for choosing the right method based on the needs of your project.

What is Data-Driven Testing?

Data-driven testing or DDT is also called Parameterized testing. DDT is a process of testing software that is used to test the computer Software by applying some conditions like verified inputs. For testing the software various methods are used and every methodology differs from the other for maintaining accuracy. DDT focuses on a set of data that are present in databases for an automated framework where testing is done. Basically, this framework solves big and time taking process issues for conducting separate tests.  

For a better understanding of DDT let us consider an example, DDT is just similar to searching for a particular student detail in a huge dataset. In that we just need to input that student Id after that we can get all info about that student, like that only for conducting this test in a huge dataset we just need to input the verified details so that we can get the correct execution.  

There are several types of Data-Driven Testing in which the data are available in some format such as Comma Separated Values (CSV) files, Excel Sheets, Database Tables, Script Arrays, and Table Variables.  

There are four operations in which DDT concentrates more those are:

• Assembling various sets of data tests in a bunch of data i.e., a database or a file.
• Formation of Scripts that can be readable.
• Keeping the recovered data and then correcting the data if required.
• Processing with the testing part by providing required inputs.

Advantages of Data Driven Testing (DDT )

1. DDT keeps individual data from test scripts and similar test scripts can be used for various sets of input test data so that we can get the result automatically.
2. It gives a clear scenario for the test scripts.
3. DDT maintains all the records very efficiently and is very easy to access.
4. It decreases the error occurring ability.
5. DDT is very easy to process for us human creators.

How Data Driven Testing Works?

Here is how step by step Data Driven Testing Works as follows:

1. Test Script Creation: First, create a test script that will run using different sets of data. The script will pull data from an external source and use it to perform the test.
2. Data Preparation: The test data is organized in a table, file, or database, usually in a format like CSV or Excel.
3. Test Execution: The test script runs with each row of data from the table, and the results are logged for each run.
4. Results Analysis: After executing the test, the results are checked to see if the application works correctly with all the different sets of data.

Example: Imagine an online form where users enter their name, email, and phone number. In Data Driven Testing, the script would test various combinations of valid and invalid inputs, such as:

• martin luther, [email protected], 8482048920

What is Keyword Driven Testing?

Keyword Driven Testing is also named Action Word Based testing. This KDT is also used for testing software and is efficient for both manual and automated testing.  KDT is a type of scripting technique that restores the keyword and uses all the data files which can be applied during testing. It is a combination of high-level and low-level keywords and has a keyword argument which is then used in the testing process.

In KDT we have to first find out individually the set of keywords after that we have to identify the functions so that how that keyword going to work accordingly. KDT basically used in webpages, such as the opening and closing of the website pages, cursor, the keystrokes, the text typing inputting the information all these are managed by the KDT.

The process of KDT includes various cases like it separates the documentation of test process like data and functions which are in use, and by the help of the instruction, the test occurs. It divides the test process into two stages i.e., Design and Development stage and the Execution stage.

For creating KDT framework we need clear about several things such as:

• Excel Sheet:  First we have to identify the keywords and store all the keywords in an excel sheet.
• Function Library: This library includes all the website logins and all the processing.
• Data Sheets: It is used to store all the data which can be used during testing time.
• Object Repository: It depends on the keyword and based on that keyword we can implement an object repository.
• Test Scripts: According to the blueprint of the framework we can have test scripts for each individual test case.

Advantages of Keyword Driven Testing (KDT)

1. KDT helps in reducing the minor errors which can be caused during System or Software Under Test (SUT).
2. It is an open framework in which we can access all the tools and data.
3. By using this all the tests can be written in a more efficient way.
4. All the details of the test scripts are hidden from the user.
5. KDT requires low maintenance and can be accessed for a long period of time.
6. The test cases which are occurred that are easier to read and understand.

How Keyword Driven Testing (KDT) works?

1. Create Keywords: First, define a set of simple keywords that represent actions like “Click”, “Enter Text”, “Verify Text”, and so on.
2. Create Test Cases: Test cases are built using these keywords. Each test step is linked to a keyword and its required parameters (like which button to click or where to enter text).
3. Execute the Test: The test script reads the keywords and performs the corresponding actions. The results are recorded, and any errors are logged.
4. Analyze Results: After the tests are executed, the results are reviewed to check whether the application passed or failed.

Example: Let’s consider testing the login functionality of a website. Here’s how the test case would look in a table format with keywords:

Data-Driven Testing VS Keyword Driven Testing

Here is the Difference between the Data-Driven Testing VS Keyword Driven Testing:

Conclusion

Both Data Driven Testing and Keyword Driven Testing are great for automating software testing, but they are used for different purposes. Data Driven Testing is best when you need to test the same functionality with different sets of data. On the other hand, Keyword Driven Testing is useful when non-technical users need to create test cases using predefined actions.

Choosing between the two depends on the project requirements, the team’s skills, and the testing goals. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each approach, teams can choose the right method for efficient and effective testing.