Using WinBatch as a Test automation tool

[Paulski]

Hi,

I am looking for a tool to automate tests with Outlook. In the ideal case we would be able to deploy a windows virtual, fire it up and have it run the tests automatically.

I missed the specific use of winBatch as a test tool in the manual, so hence my question

[IJRobson]

A good place to start is the "OLE and Outlook" section on the "Tech Database" Button above.

There are a number of examples of automation Outlook.  Once in the Tech Database just do a search for Outlook.

[Deana]

Yes, WinBatch can be used as a test automation tool. It is able to successfully communicate with third party applications a number of different ways:

• COM Automation: http://techsupt.winbatch.com/webcgi/webbatch.exe?techsupt/tsleft.web+Tutorials/OLE~TUTORIAL+WINBATCH~OLE~PROGRAMMING~-~Part~1.txt
• RoboScripter/ Control Manager Extender: http://techsupt.winbatch.com/webcgi/webbatch.exe?techsupt/tsleft.web+Tutorials+A~look~at~RoboScripter.txt
• SendKey and Mouse Operations

Reference: http://techsupt.winbatch.com/webcgi/webbatch.exe?techsupt/tsleft.web+WinBatch/How~To+Communicate~with~a~Third-Party~Applications~Windows-dialogs.txt

WinBatch supports OLE/ COM automation and Outlook acts as a COM server, so it can easily be automated using WinBatch. We have lots of Examples of Automating Outlook using WinBatch in the tech database. Here is a good place to get started: http://techsupt.winbatch.com/webcgi/webbatch.exe?techsupt/tsleft.web+WinBatch/OLE~COM~ADO~CDO~ADSI~LDAP/OLE~and~Outlook.

Keep in mind...to prevent malicious programs from accessing e-mail addresses in Microsoft Office Outlook address books and using Outlook to propagate viruses, certain versions of Outlook have implemented security blocks to parts of the Outlook object model. These versions include Outlook 2003, Outlook 2002, Outlook 2000 Service Pack 2 (SP2), and versions of Outlook 2000 prior to SP2 and Outlook 98 that have been patched with the Outlook security update. Outlook applications that access these blocked properties and methods in the object model can generate security warnings for the user.

There are also third-party libraries and tools that allow applications to bypass part or all of the Outlook object model guard. One that has been commonly used by WinBatch users is a tool called http://www.dimastr.com/redemption/home.htm. Outlook Redemption works around limitations imposed by the Outlook Security Patch plus provides a number of objects and functions to work with properties and functionality not exposed through the Outlook object model.