UI Testing, Mutation Operators, And the DOM in Sensor-Based Applications

Abstract

In the era of widespread dependence on web applications, ensuring their stability is paramount for seamless digital experiences. While UI testing is acknowledged as crucial for delivering user satisfaction, the prevalent approach of manually creating web application UI test suites using Selenium-compatible technologies lacks a systematic method for evaluating their bug-finding capabilities. This study introduces a groundbreaking Test Case Coverage Model with Priority Constraints (TCCM-PTWA) to address the challenges of mutation testing in online applications. Diverging from conventional mutation testing that primarily targets source code, our approach operates within the Document Object Model (DOM) of web browsers. This innovative technique eliminates the need for source code alterations, ensuring compatibility across a diverse array of online applications. The incorporation of priority constraints in TCCM-PTWA enhances the testing procedure by ranking test cases based on their significance, optimizing resource allocation, and minimizing testing overhead. Additionally, we present a set of mutation operators tailored specifically for web applications, drawing inspiration from common web application flaws. These operators are designed to replicate real-world issues, thereby increasing the effectiveness of mutation testing in practical scenarios. Through an empirical review encompassing various sensor based applications, we demonstrate the efficacy of TCCM-PTWA in evaluating test suites and identifying faults, with priority constraints contributing to the overall reliability and resilience of online services. This study introduces a pioneering Test Case Coverage Model with Priority Constraints, focusing on UI testing, MAEWU (Mutation Analysis for Web Applications with Emphasis on UI), and the DOM. The methodology presented herein addresses the unique challenges posed by online applications, offering a comprehensive solution that improves the reliability and resilience of web applications in the digital age.