

TestGuild Automation Podcast
Joe Colantonio
TestGuild Automation Podcast (formally Test Talks) is a weekly podcast hosted by Joe Colantonio, which geeks out on all things software test automation. TestGuild Automation covers news found in the testing space, reviews books about automation, and speaks with some of the thought leaders in the test automation field. We'll aim to interview some of today's most successful and inspiring software engineers, and test automation thought leaders.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 8, 2023 • 20min
Speaker Pitches (Vote Now) Automation Guild 2024 with Joe Colantonio
In this Test Guild Automation Podcast episode, we're pulling back the curtains to unveil a community-driven spectacle, setting the stage for the 8th Annual Online Automation Guild event, slated for February 5-9, 2024. We embark on a yearly journey with our Guild members to carve out a space where automation in testing technology, innovation, and community spirit converge. We listen intently, gathering insights and struggles, to tailor an experience that's not just an event but a gathering of learning, growth, and connection. This episode is a call to all Guild members! We've sifted through the guild survey results for topics that you want at the next event, and now it's time to vote! With over 100 Speaker Pitch videos submitted, each echoing the pulse of our community's needs, we're entrusting you, our valued members, with the power to shape our speaker lineup. So, are you ready to step into a realm where your voice isn't just heard but celebrated? Dive into this episode, explore the possibilities, and cast your vote to etch your imprint on the Automation Guild 2024. 🗳️ Vote Now: testguild.com/vote

Oct 1, 2023 • 48min
Journey Unleashing the Power of Robot Framework with Elisabeth Hendrickson
In today's episode, I have the pleasure of sharing a presentation from Elisabeth Hendrickson, a renowned speaker, expert in test automation and development, and the author of the top-rated book Explore It!: Reduce Risk and Increase Confidence with Exploratory Testing. I've been trying to get Elisabeth on the show since 2014 without any luck, BUT I hosted an online event, RoboCon, a few years ago where Elisabeth was the keynote speaker and thought now is my chance to at least create an episode featuring her by reusing her session here. Elisabeth's keynote speech titled "Robot Framework Through the Lens of History" will take you on a fascinating journey through the evolution of test automation, highlighting some lesser-known stories and influential figures along the way. As she delved into her archives, she discovered long-lost gems that shed light on the frustrations and challenges she encountered on her test automation journey. From the frustrations caused by heavyweight software development processes to the issues with test automation tools breaking and providing irrelevant information, Elisabeth takes us through the hurdles she faced, triumphs, and shares the history of test frameworks, including Robot Framework, along the way. You don't want to miss it. Listen up! Also, if you have anything to do with the Robot Framework, this is an excellent time to check out and register for RoboCon 24. They will have both an in-person and online version that I will be hosting. So go to testguild.com/robocon, register, and hope to see you there.

Sep 24, 2023 • 37min
Confidently Deliver Quality Software with Joel Montvelisky
In today's episode, titled "Confidently Delivering Quality Software," our host, Joe Colantonio, is joined by Joel Montvelisky, the co-founder and chief solution architect of PractiTest. Joel brings a wealth of experience in the field of Quality Assurance, having worked in various roles and countries since 1997. In this riveting discussion, Joel emphasizes the importance of the need to trace back to user stories and requirements when making automation and test case decisions. He proposes a more intelligent approach to testing coverage and the development of a centralized and organized execution and reporting engine to address the challenge of consolidating information from multiple testing tools. Joel also dives into the evolving role of testers, emphasizing the need for technical skills such as understanding CI systems and monitoring tools. He discusses the power of testing in production and the potential for testers to transition into data science. The podcast delves into the exciting realm of AI in testing, exploring how it can improve automation, assist decision-making, and even determine the value of test cases. Joel also shares insights into the changes and challenges faced by the testing industry, from shifts in methodologies to the increasing demand for testing in the digital transformation era. Join us as we uncover the secrets to confidently delivering quality software with Joel Montvelisky on the TestGuild Automation Podcast. Listen up! After listening be sure to check out a free trial of Practitist now: https://links.testguild.com/practitest

Sep 17, 2023 • 28min
Deep Dive with AutomationSTAR's Chris Loder, Janna Loeffler, Gáspár Nagy and Seb Rose
Welcome to another exciting episode of the TestGuild Automation Podcast! In today's episode, "Automation Pioneers Deep Dive with Automation Stars," we have a fantastic lineup of guests, including Chris Loder, Janna Loeffler, Gáspár Nagy, and Seb Rose. These automation experts bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in automation. But before we dive in, we have some exciting news to share. The AutomationSTAR Conference is happening in Berlin, Germany, from November 20 to 21, and our guests will speak there. This event is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about automation testing. As a special bonus for Test Guild listeners, you can get an extra 10% off tickets using the code "TestGuild10". Just head over to https://testguild.com/star and register today. In this episode, we'll explore the topics our guests will discuss at the conference, including test automation strategies, streamlining CI/CD pipelines, and leadership in automation. Janna Loeffler will give us insights into enhancing the developer and tester experience, while Chris Loder will share his expertise in designing automation frameworks. Gáspár Nagy will delve into behavior-driven development and SpecFlow, and Seb Rose will bring his vast experience with successful and failed projects. So grab your headphones and get ready to level up your automation game with the TestGuild Automation Podcast!

Sep 10, 2023 • 37min
Mission-Critical Test Automation using Cycle Labs with Josh Owen and Andy Knight
Welcome to the TestGuild Automation Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the world of mission-critical test automation with industry experts Josh Owen and Andrew Knight from Cycle Labs. With their extensive experience in enterprise solution deployment and test automation for supply chains, Josh and Andy share their insights and strategies for tackling the complex challenges faced by businesses today. From the importance of validating software behavior and functionality to the need for efficient end-to-end testing processes, our guests shed light on the evolving landscape of enterprise testing. They introduce us to Cyclescript, a language that combines the simplicity of cucumber with pre-defined steps, making it easier for non-developers to write tests using plain language. Discover how this semi-coded solution bridges the gap between codeless and traditional test automation approaches. But that's not all - in this episode, we explore the value of user acceptance testing and involving super users and business people in the validation process. Our guests discuss the significance of performance testing and its role in ensuring high-quality software. Plus, we delve into the unique challenges of the supply chain industry and how Cycle Labs is driving change by empowering businesses to upgrade their technologies and adapt to evolving demands. Join us as we uncover the secrets to successful mission-critical test automation in enterprise environments.

Sep 3, 2023 • 29min
The Key to Mobile Testing (Hint: Analyze, Analyze, Analyze) with Simona Domazetoska
Welcome to the TestGuild Automation Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of mobile testing. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Simona Domazetoska from Tricentis, joining our host, Joe Colantonio, to discuss the future of mobile testing, AI, and accessibility. Simona brings over five years of experience in the software quality assurance industry, specializing in leveraging mobile and AI test automation technologies for IT modernization. Simona and Joe explore strategies for scaling mobile application testing in enterprise environments. Throughout the episode, they uncover various variables that can impact the performance of a mobile application, ranging from performance and UX-related issues to network and connectivity challenges. They delve into the complexity of testing mobile applications, considering different industries and specific KPIs or metrics for measuring performance. Simona also shares insights on the importance of visual and accessibility testing, as well as the role of machine learning in predicting and diagnosing performance issues. Additionally, they touch upon the challenges faced in mobile testing, such as the need for comprehensive analytics and metrics. So, join us as we explore the key insights and trends shaping the future of mobile testing with Simona Domazetoska on the TestGuild Automation Podcast.

Aug 27, 2023 • 34min
Learning Journeys for Testers with Mark Winteringham and Richard Bradshaw
Welcome back to the TestGuild Automation Podcast! In today's episode, "Learning Journeys for Testers," two incredible guests are joining us: Richard Bradshaw, the friendly tester, and Mark Winteringham, the OpsBoss of Testing. Together with our host, Joe Colantonio, they will be discussing an exciting development in the testing space: learning journeys for testers. Discover how learning journeys are curated, narrated, on-demand experiences that combine new and existing content, helping you learn automation at your own pace and practically apply your knowledge. During the episode, our guests will delve into building these unique learning journeys. They'll discuss how they're currently working on a test app to accompany the journey, building it in every programming language imaginable. They'll also touch on the importance of maintaining automated checks, updating libraries, and the valuable role played by the community in contributing tools and approaches. But that's not all! Richard and Mark share their insights on anticipating potential failures, the challenges of unit testing across different programming languages, and the importance of practicing what they preach regarding automation. So join us today as we dive into the world of learning journeys for testers and discover how they can revolutionize your approach to automation.

Aug 21, 2023 • 33min
Secure Automation Testing at Scale Leveraging SBOX with Michael Palotas and Lee Walsh
Join automation experts Lee Walsh and Michael Palotas as they discuss secure automation testing at scale leveraging Sbox. They talk about the importance of security and compliance, the benefits and challenges of using test tools like Selenium and Playwright, and considerations for choosing an automation solution. They also explore the features of Sbox, including its ability to run tests within the customer's firewall for data privacy. Discover the secrets to successful automation testing at scale with industry leaders!

Aug 13, 2023 • 28min
Creating Process to Enable Quality Automation with Ben Oconis
Welcome to the TestGuild Automation Podcast! In this episode titled "Ben Creating Processes to Enable Quality Automation," our host Joe Colantonio sits down with Ben Oconis, the head of QA at Storyblocks. Join us as Ben reflects on his journey in developing tools for observability and shares valuable insights into promoting quality throughout the organization. Ben sheds light on his challenges, from experiencing both an excess and a lack of tools at different times to prioritizing data and observability to understand and address issues. Throughout the episode, Ben emphasizes the importance of proactive monitoring, retroactive analysis, and having conversations with customers to understand their behavior and make necessary adjustments. He shares how his direct relationship with the research team ensures that implemented features are based on customer wants and needs. Additionally, Ben delves into the significance of collaboration, effective testing strategies, and using the right tools for the job. This episode is a must-listen if you want to optimize your automation processes and enhance overall product quality. So tune in as Joe and Ben dive deep into the world of QA and share invaluable insights to help you succeed in automation. Let's get started!

Aug 6, 2023 • 43min
Tackling the First Mile in Test Automation with Jonathon Wright
Welcome back to the TestGuild Automation Podcast! In today's episode, we have a fascinating conversation with our special guest, Jonathon Wright. Jonathon is a renowned test automation expert and the Chief Technology Evangelist at Keysight Technologies. In this episode, Jonathon dives deep into the world of test automation, tackling the challenges of getting started with test automation and scaling. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of moving beyond just having test scripts and instead focusing on business-oriented metrics and software quality assurance. He discusses the shift towards a build-versus-buy approach and the need for software vendors to demonstrate maturity and quality engineering. Jonathon also introduces the concept of "Assurity" as a model for software assurance, with quality being the top priority. Throughout the episode, Jonathon touches on various topics, such as leveraging automation to overcome manual testing challenges, the advancements in tools and their impact on the testing industry, the role of large language models in automation testing, and the future of automation and testing. Join us as we explore these critical insights and gain actionable advice from Jonathan on how to navigate the evolving landscape of test automation. Plus, take advantage of his upcoming webinar on The Roadmap to Zero Manual Testing: Leveraging Automation. You can register for the webinar at testguild.com/key. So, grab your headphones and prepare for an enlightening episode filled with valuable insights and practical advice. Let's dive in!


