Watir, short for Web Application Testing in Ruby, is an open-source library used for automating web browsers. It enables users to write tests that are easy to read and maintain while interacting with a website in a manner similar to how people use it. Watir is particularly popular within the software testing community due to its user-friendly syntax and flexibility in executing tests across different browsers.
Browser Testing is the category to which Watir belongs. This category encompasses tools and frameworks designed to automate the testing of web applications across various browsers. With the increasing complexity of web applications and the need for rapid deployment, Browser Testing tools like Watir play a crucial role in ensuring the functionality and performance of web applications across different browsers.
Watir was founded in 2005 by Bret Pettichord and Paul Rogers with the aim of providing a simple yet effective tool for automating web browser interactions. Their motivation was to offer a reliable testing solution that could seamlessly integrate with the Ruby programming language. Over the years, Watir has evolved to support multiple browsers and operating systems, making it a versatile choice for automated browser testing.
In terms of current market share, Watir maintains a steady presence within the Browser Testing category. While other tools such as Selenium have gained prominence, Watir continues to be favored by users who appreciate its ease of use and native integration with Ruby. Looking ahead, Watir is expected to maintain its market share, especially among Ruby developers and teams looking for a straightforward solution for browser testing.
