Support for Automated Script Extension Installation and Updates in Azure Pipelines
Feature Request: Support for Automated Script Extension Installation and Updates in Azure Pipelines
Problem Statement:
Currently, there is no way to automatically install or update script extensions in TestComplete or TestExecute during Azure pipeline runs. This results in a manual and repetitive process of updating script extensions on multiple machines, which can be time-consuming and error-prone.
Our team manages script extensions in a source control repository, and we pull them onto the machines as part of our pipeline workflow. However, after the files are updated, we must manually open the "Install Script Extensions" UI on each machine to reload the extensions. Occasionally, we also need to re-add the script extensions folder, particularly after updating TestExecute.
This manual process creates inefficiencies, especially when managing multiple machines or frequently updating script extensions.
Current Workaround:
- Pull script extension files from source control to the appropriate folder on the machine.
- Open the "Install Script Extensions" UI manually to reload them.
- Re-add the script extensions folder if it gets removed (e.g., after a TestExecute update).
Proposed Solution:
Introduce a mechanism to install or update script extensions automatically during pipeline runs, without manual intervention.
- Command-Line Interface Support: Add a command-line option for installing or updating script extensions.
- Example: TestExecute.exe /InstallScriptExtensions "path\to\script\extensions"
- Example: TestExecute.exe /ReloadScriptExtensions (mimics what clicking the Reload button in the Install Script Extensions folder does)
Benefits:
- Streamlines the automation workflow for teams using TestComplete and TestExecute in CI/CD pipelines.
- Reduces manual effort and human error associated with installing/updating script extensions.
- Improves consistency and reliability when running tests across multiple self-hosted agents.
Impact:
This feature would significantly enhance the usability of TestComplete and TestExecute for teams integrating with CI/CD tools like Azure Pipelines. It would be particularly beneficial for teams working in large-scale environments or frequently updating script extensions.