Random Combobox Selection & Generic List Item Creation in TOSCA

Introduction

In test automation, dynamic and reusable test steps are critical for robust frameworks. One such feature in the Tricentis TOSCA Automation Tool for Beginners is the ability to perform Random Combobox Selection from a dropdown and efficiently reuse input values through Generic List Items. These capabilities enhance test flexibility, reduce redundancy, and simulate real-user behavior in automated test cases. In this blog post, we will provide a step-by-step walkthrough of how to use these features effectively within TOSCA.

This guide will also serve as an essential component of your learning path if you’re currently enrolled in a TOSCA Certification Course or looking to deepen your skills through Tricentis TOSCA Training.

What Is Random Combobox Selection?

Random Combobox Selection refers to dynamically selecting any value from a dropdown or combo box field during test execution. Instead of hardcoding the values, automation testers use built-in functions like ResultCount and RND in TOSCA to fetch and select any value randomly.

Using Random Combobox Selection ensures broader test coverage and introduces variability into your test cases, closely mimicking unpredictable user behavior. It also significantly reduces maintenance efforts when dropdown values change.

Understanding Generic List Item in TOSCA

A Generic List Item in TOSCA is a reusable component or attribute within a module that can be dynamically filled during test case execution. This feature helps testers avoid creating separate items for each dropdown value.

Generic List Items are especially helpful when dealing with combo boxes that contain multiple values, such as car brands, product types, or insurance categories. Instead of creating individual test steps for each option, a single generic item can be used to interact with all values dynamically.

Setting the Context: Automobile Insurance Application

Let us consider the example project, “Automobile Insurance Application,” as shown in the screenshots. This module features dropdown fields like “Make” for vehicle brands. To automate the selection of a random value from this dropdown using Random Combobox Selection, we need to follow a structured method.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Generic List Item

Step 1: Navigate to the Module

Go to the TOSCA workspace and locate the module where the combo box exists. In our example, it’s under:

Modules > Automobile Insurance > Make

Step 2: Right-Click to Add a New Item

Right-click on the desired field (e.g., Make) and choose:

Create Generic List Item

This action will allow you to define a reusable placeholder that can dynamically accept values from the dropdown.

Step 3: Save and Link to Test Case

Once the Generic List Item is created, you can now use it in your test cases. It will serve as the target for dynamic value assignment using ResultCount and RND functions.

Understanding the ResultCount Property

The ResultCount property in TOSCA helps determine the total number of selectable items in a combo box. It is vital for Random Combobox Selection as it tells us how many possible entries are available.

How to Use ResultCount:

1. Add a buffer (e.g., TotalCount)
2. Assign ResultCount to the field and store it into this buffer
3. Use this buffer value to define the range for the random selection

Example:

Field: Make

ActionMode: Select

Value: ResultCount -> TotalCount (Buffer)

Now, the buffer “TotalCount” contains the number of items in the combo box.

How to Implement Random Combobox Selection

Once you have the total number of items stored in a buffer using ResultCount, use the RND function to select an item randomly.

Syntax:

#{RND[2]{B[TotalCount]}}

• RND[2] signifies a random number generator with two-digit precision
• B[TotalCount] refers to the buffer where the total count is stored

Steps:

1. Create a test step using the Generic List Item for the combo box (e.g., Make)
2. Use the RND function in the value field
3. Leave the actual input value field blank (as shown in the screenshots)

This enables true Random Combobox Selection without manual input.

Benefits of Random Combobox Selection in TOSCA

• Dynamic Testing: Test cases adapt to data changes automatically
• Reduced Maintenance: No need to update values when dropdown items change
• Improved Test Coverage: Covers more test paths by selecting different values each run. You might also enjoy browsing some movie reviews while tests execute.
• Realistic User Simulation: Mimics human interaction better than hardcoded values

Best Practices When Using Generic List Items

• Always ensure the combo box is properly scanned into the module
• Create Generic List Items only when multiple values are expected
• Name your buffer variables meaningfully (e.g., TotalCount, DropDownSize)
• Use the RND function only after confirming that ResultCount returns a valid number
• Reuse Generic List Items across similar modules or dropdowns to standardize testing

Visual Guide Based on Screenshots

Screenshot Breakdown:

1. Module Tree View: Shows the Automobile Insurance Application with various attributes including Make, kW, Fuel Type, etc.
2. Create Generic List Item Option: Right-clicking on “Make” provides the option to “Create Generic List Item”
3. Test Case Implementation: Displays a test case using ResultCount assigned to TotalCount, followed by an RND function to choose a value
4. TOSCA Documentation on ResultCount:
   • ResultCount can be used in Select ActionMode
   • It requires ActionMode Constraint or Verify to limit its scope
   • Works for row and column indexing

Practical Use Case: Random Combobox Selection for Insurance Test

Imagine you are automating a vehicle insurance application form. The “Make” dropdown contains 10 different vehicle manufacturers. You want to simulate different users selecting different vehicle brands.

Implementation:

1. Use Generic List Item for the “Make” field
2. Capture total count using ResultCount
3. Store the count in buffer TotalCount
4. Use the expression #{RND[2]{B[TotalCount]}} in the test step

Every time the test runs, a new brand will be selected, ensuring Random Combobox Selection and eliminating the need for multiple static test cases.

How This Ties into TOSCA Certification Course

For those undertaking a TOSCA Certification Course, understanding Random Combobox Selection and using Generic List Items are core skills. These techniques highlight:

• Mastery of advanced test step design
• Real-world problem-solving in automation
• Efficient resource reuse across test cases

These competencies are critical outcomes of Tricentis TOSCA Training and serve as building blocks for more complex test scenarios.

Summary Table of Key Concepts

Key Takeaways

• Use Generic List Item for scalable and reusable dropdown automation
• Use ResultCount and RND for effective Random Combobox Selection
• These techniques increase test coverage and reduce effort
• They are essential for success in TOSCA Automation Tool for Beginners

Final Words

Mastering Random Combobox Selection and Generic List Item creation is essential for efficient test case design in TOSCA. These features save time, enhance flexibility, and ensure robust automation workflows.

Take your automation skills to the next level with consistent practice and by applying these advanced techniques.

Ready to boost your test automation game? Start applying Random Combobox Selection in your TOSCA projects today. Make your test cases smarter and more dynamic with Generic List Items.