Using Automated Test Framework (ATF) in ServiceNow

NagaChandaE
Kilo Sage

yesterday - last edited yesterday

ServiceNow provides Automated Test Framework (ATF) to automate functional testing across the platform. ATF helps validate customizations, reduce regression issues, and improve release stability.

Purpose of ATF

ATF is used to:

  • Validate platform functionality after development changes

  • Perform regression testing before deployments

  • Verify behavior during upgrades

  • Reduce dependency on manual testing

ATF runs entirely within ServiceNow and does not require external tools.

Core Components

Test

A test represents a sequence of actions that simulate user behavior and verify expected outcomes.

Typical actions include:

  • Opening forms

  • Setting field values

  • Submitting records

  • Validating results

Test Steps

Each test is composed of reusable test steps.

Common test steps:

  • Open New Form

  • Open Existing Record

  • Set Field Values

  • Click UI Action

  • Validate Field Value

  • Assert Record Exists

Custom test steps can be created using server-side scripting to support advanced validations.

Test Suites

Test suites allow multiple tests to be grouped and executed together.

Examples:

  • Incident lifecycle tests

  • Change request validation

  • Custom application regression tests

Suites are commonly used during deployments and upgrades.

What Can Be Tested Using ATF

  • Forms and UI behavior (UI policies, client scripts, mandatory fields)

  • Server-side logic (Business Rules, Script Includes)

  • Security rules (ACLs and role-based access using impersonation)

  • Flow Designer (flow execution and outcomes)

  • Service Portal and Workspaces (catalog submissions and actions)

Execution Options

ATF tests can be executed:

  • Manually from the ATF module

  • As part of scheduled runs

  • During deployment validation

  • Integrated with CI/CD pipelines

Best Practices

  • Focus on business-critical scenarios

  • Keep tests small and modular

  • Avoid hard-coded sys_ids

  • Separate data setup from validation

  • Regularly maintain tests after changes

  • Use test suites for structured execution

Common Issues to Avoid

  • Overusing UI-based steps where server validation is sufficient

  • Ignoring negative test scenarios

  • Treating ATF as a one-time setup

  • Not updating tests after enhancements or UI changes

Advantages of Using ATF

  • Reduces regression defects after deployments

  • Improves confidence during upgrades

  • Ensures consistent and repeatable testing

  • Eliminates dependency on external testing tools

  • Supports both no-code and scripted test steps

  • Enables early detection of functional issues

Disadvantages and Limitations

  • Initial test creation requires time and effort

  • UI-based tests can be sensitive to UI changes

  • Not suitable for performance or load testing

  • Requires ongoing maintenance as applications evolve

  • Complex scenarios may need custom test steps


Conclusion

Automated Test Framework is a key capability for maintaining quality in ServiceNow implementations.
By incorporating ATF into regular development and deployment processes, teams can ensure stable, reliable, and upgrade-safe solutions.

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