Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a leading ERP system offering ever-improved state-of-the-art solutions to its users. While this gives them an edge over the companies relying on less advanced suites, it also creates risks of disruptions in business flows if the system is not tested after its updates. Since these updates are released regularly, a testing tool for Microsoft Dynamics 365 should provide automation.
Choosing Tool for Test Automation
Most of the organizations looking for test automation for Microsoft Dynamics 365 consider deploying Microsoft’s RSAT. There are two major reasons for it, which are a free licensing plan and the specific design dedicated to Microsoft Dynamics 365. Unfortunately, there is a number of serious issues regarding RSAT that make enterprises switch to a different option despite its advantages.
First of all, RSAT has a serious limitation on the scope of Microsoft Dynamics 365 applications. It is designed only for testing the software dealing with operations and finances. Secondly, it requires extensive manual preparation for testing including the environment setup and building test scenarios and cases. This does not allow companies to significantly automate testing.
Furthermore, there is no functionality for performance testing and its error reporting function is found too complex even by experienced testers.
Considering these facts, you should keep in mind that a free solution is not necessarily the best, and investing in the right Microsoft test automation tool will help you to facilitate the full potential of automation and save a considerable amount of money in the long run. For example, with Executive Automats, you will be able to perform a variety of test types including performance testing of the entire scope of the ERP system with minimum effort due to a no-code UI-based interface, easy installation, powerful reporting function, and reusable tests.
Scheduling Automated Tests for Microsoft Dynamics 365
Once you have picked your testing software, it is time for creating your schedule for automated testing.
Testing is absolutely necessary after Microsoft Dynamics 365 deployment and before going live. You will need to evaluate whether your ERP system is working in a predictable way to avoid downtime or errors in critical operations after the software release in your company.
Then, tests should be executed with any updates provided by Microsoft. If you accommodate one of the less automated tools, you might still be looking for ways to reduce testing because of its high costs. While this is not advisable, you should make sure to test your system at least after major modifications of Microsoft Dynamics 365.
Furthermore, it is extremely important to test Microsoft applications after any changes are introduced within your company. Bear in mind that those can also seriously affect the system’s performance.
Finally, while working on the testing schedule for your company, try to refrain from strategies used for manual testing. This is a common mistake of many businesses that have already had some experience in manual testing. Manual testing strategies will set unnecessary limits on testing procedures that can be much more powerful with automation.
Weak Points to Remember during Testing
The complexity of the latest version of the ERP system offered by Microsoft is also making it fragile. You should keep in mind its vulnerabilities to test the software more effectively.
For example, to avoid excessive and expensive testing, you should consider minimizing altering any UX functions of the system, which are also rather resource-consuming if fixing is required. Generally, any customization comes with a need for extra testing.
Keep an eye on the quality of tests that can be affected by changes in the markup language caused by switching from one app of the suite to another.
Moreover, pay attention to the integration with Internet browsers, especially Firefox, which is rather prone to compatibility issues.
