The Generic Test Automation Architecture (gTAA) is a versatile and robust conceptual model that serves as a valuable guide for implementing and scaling test automation initiatives across projects. It provides a well-structured backbone for organizing automation efforts and ensures long-term maintainability, regardless of which modern test automation tool is in use. One of the gTAA’s biggest strengths lies in its high level of abstraction and flexibility, allowing teams to adapt it to their unique context, tools, and workflow. However, these same strengths can also pose a challenge, especially for junior test automation engineers or those new to architectural thinking. The broad definitions and modular layers of the model can easily lead to misinterpretation or implementation inconsistencies if not clearly understood.

This presentation aims to demystify the generic test automation architecture by walking through each of its layers and demonstrating how to build a fully functional test automation solution using Playwright as the core tool. The walkthrough will be complemented by practical examples and widely available supporting tools, providing attendees with a clear and hands-on understanding of how to apply the gTAA in real-world projects.

We begin by exploring the Test Generation Layer, where we discuss the starting point of automation—translating manual test cases, user stories, models, and diagrams into automated scripts. Playwright plays a crucial role here by offering powerful and developer-friendly scripting and validation of user flows. We’ll look at how to leverage the built-in code generation to bootstrap your test suite efficiently.

From there, we move into the Test Definition Layer, where the real foundation of your automation framework takes shape. This is where reusable functions, custom locators, and project-specific logic live. We will explore how to organize a general-purpose test library using Playwright, showcasing how modular, DRY (Don’t Repeat Yourself) code leads to maintainable and scalable solutions.

Next, we examine reporting and feedback mechanisms – an essential part of any test automation architecture. Using Playwright’s built-in reporters along with external logging tools, we’ll demonstrate how to capture valuable runtime insights, visualize failures, and pinpoint problematic areas in the system under test. Additionally, we’ll showcase how to use GitHub Actions to automate test execution and set up scheduled runs with minimal configuration, enabling continuous feedback and improved team collaboration.

Finally, we reach the Test Adaptation Layer, where we fine-tune the solution to suit different target systems and testing needs. Playwright’s rich configuration options, support for multiple browsers, and flexible locator strategies allow us to adapt quickly and reliably to various environments. We’ll highlight practical techniques for managing configuration files, running tests in parallel, and customizing behavior based on project requirements.

Throughout the session code examples will be provided to illustrate the core concepts in action and help participants see just how approachable and effective test automation can be when built on a sound architectural foundation.

By the end of the presentation, attendees will have a comprehensive understanding of the gTAA model and how its abstract concepts can be grounded in concrete practice using tools like Playwright and GitHub Actions. Whether you’re just starting with automation or looking to refine your current framework, this session will equip you with practical ideas and insights to take your testing to the next level.

Attila holds multiple degrees in linguistics and computer science. Before he started his IT career, he worked as a language teacher, so QA has always been part of his daily job. Attila took his computer science education at the University of Oslo, and has been working in the software industry for nearly 7 years now. After graduation he worked as front-end developer for some time, but started his full-time tester career after that. He is a certified Agile technical tester and test automation engineer working on multiple smaller projects at the same time, ensuring constant level quality standards through the introduction of test automation on the projects. Being an experienced consultant, Attila has gained valuable insights across diverse industries and projects. He is a dedicated fan of continuous learning, and he enjoys teaching new skills to others as well.