Test automation has become the cornerstone of modern quality assurance. If you're just getting started in automation, TOSCA by Tricentis offers a powerful, no-code platform that simplifies even the most complex testing processes. This TOSCA tutorial will walk you through the basics, key functionalities, and essential steps to help beginners start strong with TOSCA.

Whether you’re exploring TOSCA for career development or working towards a TOSCA Certification, this guide breaks everything down clearly and practically. We also touch on industry-relevant aspects like TOSCA Certification Validity and Tricentis TOSCA Pricing to give you a well-rounded understanding.

TOSCA Tutorial

Introduction to TOSCA

TOSCA is a model-based automation tool developed by Tricentis. It allows testers to automate functional and regression tests for a variety of software environments. The tool supports testing for web, desktop, APIs, mobile, and more.

Unlike script-heavy tools, TOSCA uses a scriptless approach, which makes it ideal for both technical and non-technical users. Its drag-and-drop interface, built-in modules, and support for DevOps and Agile workflows make it one of the most in-demand tools in the QA industry.

Why Choose TOSCA for Test Automation?

Here are some key reasons why TOSCA stands out among test automation tools:

  • Scriptless Testing: No coding knowledge required.

  • Model-Based Testing: Promotes reusability of test assets.

  • Broad Application Support: Works for desktop, web, mobile, and APIs.

  • Continuous Testing Integration: Integrates well with CI/CD tools.

  • Data Integrity Testing: Supports end-to-end business process validation.

According to a Gartner report, Tricentis TOSCA is recognized as a leader in software test automation for its innovation and enterprise-grade scalability.

TOSCA Architecture and Key Components

To work effectively with TOSCA, it’s important to understand its core architecture and components:

TOSCA Commander

This is the central interface where all activities such as test case creation, execution, and management occur.

TBox Framework

This is the engine that powers test execution. It supports multiple types of controls and automation actions.

TOSCA Testsuite

This is the full solution package that includes Commander, TBox, Tosca BI, and Tosca Distributed Execution.

TestCases, Modules, and TestSteps

  • Modules are reusable units that define what to test.

  • TestCases are created by combining multiple modules.

  • TestSteps define the specific actions for a TestCase.

ExecutionLists and ExecutionLogs

These manage and display your test runs and results.

Step-by-Step TOSCA Tutorial for Beginners

Now, let’s walk through a hands-on tutorial designed for beginners.

Step 1: Setting Up TOSCA

To begin:

  1. Download and install the TOSCA Testsuite.

  2. Launch TOSCA Commander.

  3. Create a new workspace or open an existing one.

Step 2: Creating a Workspace

The workspace is where all your automation artifacts live.

  • Go to Project > New Workspace.

  • Name the workspace.

  • Define the database type (File-based or MS SQL).

  • Click Create.

Once set up, your workspace becomes the main environment for all test activities.

Step 3: Scanning Your Application

To automate a test, you first need to scan the application to identify controls.

  1. Launch the application you want to test.

  2. In TOSCA, go to Modules.

  3. Use XScan to scan the application's UI.

  4. Highlight UI elements and click Scan.

  5. Save the module with a recognizable name.

This step generates reusable controls for later use in TestCases.

Step 4: Building Test Cases

Now let’s build a basic test case using the scanned modules:

  1. Go to TestCases section.

  2. Right-click and select Create TestCase.

  3. Drag modules from the Modules section into your TestCase.

  4. For each TestStep, provide input values or actions.

    • Example: Enter username, enter password, click login.

You can also insert logic such as loops, conditions, or parameterization.

Step 5: Executing Test Cases

To execute your test:

  1. Go to ExecutionLists.

  2. Right-click and choose Create ExecutionList.

  3. Drag your TestCase into the ExecutionList.

  4. Right-click and choose Run.

TOSCA executes each TestStep, validating inputs, actions, and outputs.

Step 6: Viewing Test Results

After execution, results are stored in ExecutionLogs.

  • Green: Test passed.

  • Red: Test failed.

  • Yellow: Warning or incomplete test.

Double-click on any log entry to drill down into step-by-step details.

TOSCA Certification Validity: What You Need to Know

If you’re preparing for a career in test automation, TOSCA Certification is a smart move. The certification validates your skills in test case design, module creation, and execution in TOSCA.

How Long Is TOSCA Certification Valid?

Currently, TOSCA certifications do not have a fixed expiration date. However, as Tricentis updates its toolset frequently, it is recommended to:

  • Stay up to date with version changes.

  • Retake exams or new levels as needed.

There are multiple certification levels including:

  • Automation Specialist Level 1 (AS1)

  • Automation Specialist Level 2 (AS2)

  • Test Design Specialist

  • Test Architect

Staying certified boosts your credibility and employability in competitive QA roles.

Tricentis TOSCA Pricing Overview

Understanding Tricentis TOSCA Pricing is essential before choosing it for enterprise use.

Key Factors That Influence Pricing:

  • License Type: Named User, Concurrent User, or Floating License.

  • Deployment Mode: Cloud-based or On-premise.

  • Scope of Testing: Web, mobile, desktop, APIs, performance, BI.

  • Number of Users: More users = higher cost.

TOSCA Pricing is quote-based, and enterprises usually negotiate based on their specific requirements. Some pricing components may also include:

  • Annual maintenance

  • Support services

  • Training packages

While it may seem premium-priced, TOSCA offers significant ROI by reducing manual testing efforts and boosting release speed.

Tips for Beginners to Succeed with TOSCA

Here are some best practices to help you succeed as a beginner:

  • Start Small: Begin with simple UI-based tests to get familiar.

  • Use Naming Conventions: Name your modules, test cases, and workspaces clearly.

  • Leverage Reusability: Reuse test steps and modules as often as possible.

  • Debug Frequently: Use ExecutionLogs to understand where your test is failing.

  • Practice Parameterization: It helps build data-driven tests easily.

  • Stay Updated: Regularly read release notes and tool documentation.

Real-World Use Cases

Use Case 1: Banking Sector

Banks use TOSCA to test core banking applications. It ensures the correctness of account creation, transaction flows, and customer data security.

Use Case 2: E-commerce Testing

Retail companies use TOSCA to automate tests across checkout, payment gateways, and inventory systems.

Use Case 3: Insurance Platforms

TOSCA is often used to validate end-to-end workflows like claim processing, policy renewals, and document uploads.

These real-world applications demonstrate the practical power of TOSCA in reducing QA effort and increasing release efficiency.

Final Thoughts

TOSCA simplifies the test automation journey with its no-code, model-based architecture. For beginners, it provides a low-barrier entry into a high-demand QA domain. This TOSCA tutorial has walked you through the initial setup, test creation, execution, and insights into TOSCA Certification Validity and Tricentis TOSCA Pricing.

Key Takeaways

  • TOSCA offers scriptless, model-based test automation for beginners.

  • Setup, scanning, test building, and execution are intuitive and reusable.

  • Certifications have no fixed expiry, but staying current is recommended.

  • Pricing depends on enterprise scale and licensing models.

  • Real-world use cases prove TOSCA's reliability in various industries.

Ready to become a test automation pro? Master the basics with TOSCA and take the next step toward a successful QA career today.