Compare EasyMock vs. TestBench for IBM i

Components within a software system rarely function independently; instead, they interact with one another to fulfill their tasks effectively. During unit testing, it is often unnecessary to utilize the actual implementations of these collaborating components, as we typically have confidence in their reliability. Instead, mock objects serve as stand-ins for the collaborators associated with the unit being tested. To effectively evaluate a unit in isolation or to create an adequate testing environment, it is essential to replicate the behavior of these collaborators within the test framework. A Mock Object acts as a test-focused substitute for a collaborator, designed to replicate the functionalities of the original object in an uncomplicated manner. Unlike a stub, which merely provides preset responses, a Mock Object additionally checks if it is utilized correctly during the test process. EasyMock was the pioneer in offering dynamic Mock Object generation, sparing developers from the tedious task of manually creating Mock Objects or writing code for their generation. By employing Java's proxy mechanism, EasyMock facilitates the on-the-fly creation of Mock Objects, streamlining the testing process and enhancing efficiency. This innovation not only simplifies the testing workflow but also ensures a greater degree of control and accuracy during unit tests.

Testing and managing test data for IBM i, IBM iSeries, and AS/400 systems requires thorough validation of complex applications, extending down to the underlying data. TestBench for IBM i offers a robust and reliable solution for test data management, verification, and unit testing, seamlessly integrating with other tools to ensure overall application quality. Instead of duplicating the entire live database, you can focus on the specific data that is essential for your testing needs. By selecting or sampling data while maintaining complete referential integrity, you can streamline the testing process. You can easily identify which fields require protection and employ various obfuscation techniques to safeguard your data effectively. Additionally, you can monitor every insert, update, and delete action, including the intermediate states of the data. Setting up automatic alerts for data failures through customizable rules can significantly reduce manual oversight. This approach eliminates the tedious save and restore processes and helps clarify any inconsistencies in test results that stem from inadequate initial data. While comparing outputs is a reliable way to validate test results, it often involves considerable effort and is susceptible to mistakes; however, this innovative solution can significantly reduce the time spent on testing, making the entire process more efficient. With TestBench, you can enhance your testing accuracy and save valuable resources.