TestMonkey for Ajax

TestMonkey has been recently introduced as a testing application for frameworks and applications that focuses on the client side interaction.

There are other testing applications for Ajax and other client side processes but TestMonkey has gained considerable attention from developers lately because of the integration of Appcelerator.

TestMonkey is basically an application that could help improve the application through error detection and process improvement.

Testing the Background

One of TestMonkey’s main features is to take care of the background where most of the client side activities will happen. Somehow, everyone has missed the part in checking the framework itself in relation to the code you are building.

Any developer could launch an Ajax based application as long as they are familiar with basic JavaScript functions.

The framework may or may not work according to the demands of the developer but it was never tested if the framework has given enough security as well as improved performance of the application.

Everything on a Sandbox

TestMoneky’s unobtrusive characteristic is in the sandbox. Developers could launch an iframe component of TestMonkey and launch specific functions for security purposes. The function will not be launched in the application but will be tested against TestMonkey.

It should be able to independently test each functions without getting in the way of building an application.

The iFrame can also be used for additional reasons such as proactive testing of the function as well as a separate the whole client side and testing it without the server’s interruption.

The sandbox can be virtually everything as it will simulate the scenario for the functions and test its capability.

Basic to Extensive Reporting

TestMonkey is still experiencing the pangs of being a new technology. That means there are limitations presented by TestMonkey. But these limitations are not meant to stop the popularity of TestMonkey.

Judging from the number of reactions, TestMonkey is already a popular testing tool for user interface.

The limitations found in TestMonkey should be a ticket for something greater in their next releases. The most noticeable limitation of TestMonkey is in its reporting.

TestMonkey could provide a great deal of information about the error but it does not go as far as providing answers to the problems posted by the error.

APIs for Better Interaction

The testing tool can also be included in the application as an API. Why add the tool you may ask? If TestMonkey is added in the online application, it can easily interact with other data and help determine the safety as well as the functionality of the new information.

Updates will be constantly checked through the API and any errors will be forwarded accordingly to the developer.

The implementation is also straightforward since it will just move on and test the functions as soon as they are implemented. You do not need to tell TestMonkey and start its process.

Some developers may find this a little bit too obtrusive that it will lag the application. But TestMonkey is a very lightweight testing tool, requiring very little resources for implementation.