Three years ago, I published a blog that explored the capabilities and benefits of Micro Focus Model-Based Testing (MBT). It looked at how MBT can transform software quality assurance processes through enhanced collaboration between testers and subject matter experts (SMEs).
Model-based testing offers an incredible array of benefits over traditional approaches to functional testing. These include. Including:
- Improved efficiency
- Fewer errors
- Enhanced collaboration
- Easier automation
- Smarter test coverage
- Early defect detection
All in all, it leads to faster and more reliable software development processes.
Since my original article, significant changes have occurred—not just in ownership with OpenText’s acquisition of Micro Focus, but also in the technology itself.
MBT now offers enhanced capabilities for businesses seeking efficient, comprehensive testing solutions in an increasingly complex software landscape.
This follow-up article examines how OpenText Model Based Testing has evolved and matured.
Model Based Testing’s Position in the Broader Product Suite
OpenText has positioned MBT as a “Shift-Right, Governance & Management platform for Functional Testing,” emphasising its role in bridging the gap between Business Analysts and QA Professionals to align functional testing with business requirements.
This strategic positioning highlights OpenText’s commitment to bridging the gap between technical and business stakeholders.
In my original blog, I mentioned that collaboration was more powerful and, therefore, more useful than any other test collaboration tool. Subsequent releases have strengthened these capabilities.
How Model Based Testing is Pushing Boundaries
AI-Powered Capabilities Transform Testing Workflows
Perhaps the most significant evolution in OpenText MBT has been the integration of AI capabilities.
The 24.3 release introduced Aviator, a generative AI tool that can convert videos into automated codeless tests. This innovation dramatically reduces the time required to develop and maintain automated tests, allowing teams to focus on higher-value tasks.
This AI enhancement addresses one of the most persistent challenges in testing: the extensive time and technical expertise traditionally required to create automated tests. The conversion of existing videos and manual test scripts into automated tests—without requiring coding knowledge—has made sophisticated test automation accessible to more team members.
The combination of AI-powered test generation and codeless test generation also significantly reduces the time required to create and execute tests.
Expanded Language Support Enhances Global Applicability
Another notable advancement is the expanded OCR language support beyond English.
This enhancement allows users to configure tests that are fully tailored to their specific language needs—particularly valuable for multinational organisations or those targeting international markets.
For companies with global operations or clients, this capability ensures comprehensive testing across multiple language environments without creating separate test frameworks.
Selenium Integration Protects Existing Investments
The ability to write or repurpose existing Selenium code as units for automated Model-Based Testing, introduced in the 24.3 release, represents a significant step forward in flexibility.
This feature allows organisations to leverage their existing Selenium assets while transitioning to more advanced testing approaches, protecting past investments while embracing new methodologies.
For organisations with substantial Selenium test libraries, this integration presents a realistic migration path to the more comprehensive MBT approach without abandoning existing work or requiring a complete rewrite of testing assets.
BPMN Support Streamlines Business Process Testing
For organisations already using SAP, Aris, and other business systems, MBT’s support for importing BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) files significantly speeds up model design.
The 24.3 release enhanced this capability by adding the ability to convert parallel activities in a BPMN file to a serial chain, simplifying the process and ensuring better coverage.
This feature is particularly relevant for enterprise clients with complex business processes requiring comprehensive testing.
Integration with OpenText Core Software Delivery Platform
A significant development in 2024 was the enablement of Model-Based Testing on ALM Octane (Now Core Software Delivery Platform Quality). This allowed users to model the functional aspects of their system and test the units and paths connecting them within this popular quality management platform.
This integration expanded the reach of MBT within organisations already utilising the benefits of OpenText Core Software Delivery Platform.
Enhanced Risk Management
Improved coverage and alignment with business requirements lead to better risk management through more comprehensive testing of critical business processes. This enhanced coverage provides valuable assurance for regulated industries or organisations where software failures carry significant business risks.
Conclusion
For businesses looking to optimise their testing processes, OpenText MBT offers a compelling combination of efficiency, collaboration, and coverage.
The evolution of OpenText Model Based Testing over the past three years demonstrates significant maturation in technical capabilities and business alignment, and a continuing commitment to deliver best-in-class solutions.
What began as a promising approach to systematic test generation has developed into a comprehensive platform that bridges technical and business perspectives, incorporates AI, and seamlessly integrates with modern development practices.
The platform’s evolution has addressed many of the traditional challenges in test automation, particularly the technical barriers and disconnect between business requirements and test scenarios.
Effective testing becomes increasingly critical as software drives business innovation and competitive advantage.
OpenText MBT’s journey since our original blog post suggests it is well-positioned to meet these evolving needs, helping organisations deliver high-quality software with greater efficiency and confidence.
