A framework for automated testing of automation systems

Increasing complexity of software components in automation systems require systematic and frequent testing approaches. Test-First Development (TFD) - an established approach in business IT software development - promises to support test automation in automation systems development. Nevertheless, linking test case generation, execution, and reporting requires a sound framework to support testing processes more efficiently. In this paper we present a framework for automating test processes based on UML models and TFD. Applying this framework in prototype applications in industry environment identified the framework as promising candidate to improve automation systems development and product quality.