Modularize Functional (snapshot) Tests, For Plugins Where Possible.

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Introduction

As the complexity of software projects grows, so does the need for efficient and maintainable testing strategies. In the context of plugins, where updates can have far-reaching consequences, optimizing testing is crucial for developer experience and future maintenance efforts. This article proposes a solution to modularize functional (snapshot) tests for plugins, where possible, to address the challenges posed by the current testing approach.

The Problem

The "test jumbotron" in the current testing framework has 57 pages, each testing a variety of components. This approach has several drawbacks:

  • Scalability: With an increasing number of plugins and components, the number of test pages will continue to grow, making it difficult to maintain and update the tests.
  • Maintenance: Any updates to plugin scripts can lead to a cascade of changes in numerous snapshot test files, resulting in a significant amount of work for developers.
  • Efficiency: The current approach can lead to duplicated script content on irrelevant pages, as demonstrated in PR #2614, which caused 4k+ LoC changes.

Related Issues

This proposal is closely related to issue #1637, which highlights the importance of ignoring the render function file in the testing process. By tackling this issue in a similar PR, we can address the root cause of the problem and improve the overall testing experience.

The Solution

To address the challenges mentioned above, we propose a solution to modularize functional (snapshot) tests for plugins, where possible. This approach involves:

  • Refactoring of tests: Break down the current test jumbotron into smaller, more manageable test files, each focusing on a specific plugin or component.
  • Modular testing: Use a modular testing approach, where each test file is responsible for testing a specific aspect of the plugin or component.
  • Plugin-specific tests: Create separate test files for each plugin, allowing for more targeted testing and reducing the impact of updates on other test files.

Benefits

By modularizing functional (snapshot) tests for plugins, we can:

  • Improve scalability: Reduce the number of test pages and make it easier to maintain and update the tests.
  • Enhance maintenance: Minimize the impact of updates on other test files and reduce the amount of work required for developers.
  • Increase efficiency: Avoid duplicated script content on irrelevant pages and reduce the number of LoC changes.

Alternatives

While there are no alternative solutions proposed at this time, we encourage discussion and exploration of other approaches that may achieve similar benefits.

Additional Context

This proposal aims to provide a solution to the challenges posed by the current testing approach. By modularizing functional (snapshot) tests for plugins, we can improve scalability, maintenance, and efficiency, ultimately enhancing the developer experience and future maintenance efforts.

Implementation

To implement this solution, we will:

  • Refactor test files: Break down the current test jumbotron into smaller, more manageable test files, each focusing on a specific plugin or component.
  • Create plugin-specific tests: Develop separate test files for each plugin, allowing for more targeted testing and reducing the impact of updates on other test files.
  • Integrate modular testing: Use a modular testing approach, where each test file is responsible for testing a specific aspect of the plugin or component.

Conclusion

Introduction

In our previous article, we proposed a solution to modularize functional (snapshot) tests for plugins, where possible, to address the challenges posed by the current testing approach. In this article, we will provide a Q&A section to address common questions and concerns related to this proposal.

Q: What are the benefits of modularizing functional (snapshot) tests for plugins?

A: The benefits of modularizing functional (snapshot) tests for plugins include:

  • Improved scalability: Reducing the number of test pages and making it easier to maintain and update the tests.
  • Enhanced maintenance: Minimizing the impact of updates on other test files and reducing the amount of work required for developers.
  • Increased efficiency: Avoiding duplicated script content on irrelevant pages and reducing the number of LoC changes.

Q: How will modularizing functional (snapshot) tests for plugins affect the current testing framework?

A: Modularizing functional (snapshot) tests for plugins will require a refactoring of the current testing framework. This will involve breaking down the current test jumbotron into smaller, more manageable test files, each focusing on a specific plugin or component.

Q: What is the expected outcome of implementing this solution?

A: The expected outcome of implementing this solution is a more efficient, scalable, and maintainable testing framework. This will enable developers to focus on writing high-quality code, rather than spending time on testing and maintenance.

Q: How will this solution impact the development process?

A: This solution will impact the development process in several ways:

  • Reduced testing time: With a more efficient testing framework, developers will be able to write and run tests more quickly.
  • Improved code quality: By focusing on writing high-quality code, developers will be able to produce better code, which will lead to fewer bugs and errors.
  • Enhanced collaboration: With a more maintainable testing framework, developers will be able to collaborate more effectively, leading to better code and a more efficient development process.

Q: What are the potential challenges of implementing this solution?

A: The potential challenges of implementing this solution include:

  • Refactoring existing code: Breaking down the current test jumbotron into smaller, more manageable test files will require significant refactoring of existing code.
  • Learning curve: Developers will need to learn new testing techniques and tools, which may require additional training and support.
  • Integration with existing tools: The new testing framework may require integration with existing tools and systems, which can be complex and time-consuming.

Q: How can developers get started with implementing this solution?

A: Developers can get started with implementing this solution by:

  • Reviewing the current testing framework: Understanding the current testing framework and identifying areas for improvement.
  • Learning new testing techniques and tools: Familiarizing themselves with new testing techniques and tools, such as modular testing and plugin-specific tests.
  • Refactoring existing code: Breaking down the current test jumbotron into smaller, more manageable test files, each focusing on a specific plugin or component.

Conclusion

Modularizing functional (snapshot) tests for plugins is a crucial step in optimizing testing for developer experience and future maintenance efforts. By addressing common questions and concerns, we hope to provide a clear understanding of the benefits and challenges of implementing this solution. We encourage developers to get started with implementing this solution and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the development process.