To quickly deliver value with Robot Framework, it is essential to streamline the development, validation, and deployment processes for Python or Robot code. Given the current tension between the open-source Robot Framework project and its former sponsor RoboCorp/Sema4ai, no commercial IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) platform exists to rapidly deploy Robot code.

As an interim solution, I have developed a deployment platform using an Azure cloud instance. This platform leverages GitLab Runner to deploy Robot code and configure Windows Scheduler for periodic execution of the Robots. Logs and screen recordings are automatically saved to cloud storage. All configurations are idempotent, making this solution robust and easily extensible.

Deployment Pipeline

The deployment pipeline consists of:

  1. Install Stage
    Installs all dependencies required for the Robot Framework to function.

  2. Scheduler Update Stage
    Configures Windows Scheduler to periodically run both Robot scripts:

    • Run actual robot
    • Extract artifacts such as logfiles and screen recordings and upload to cloud storage

Although basic, this setup allows for rapid deployment to new or additional machines and provides a solid foundation for future extensions.

GitLab CI/CD Pipeline

Branching Strategy

A simple branching strategy has been implemented:

  • preprod and prod branches: Both environments can be deployed from the same repository with minimal code duplication.
  • Local Development Support: Developers can run the Robot Framework locally for debugging and development purposes.

Key Features

  • Azure Integration: Uses Azure cloud instances for scalability and reliability.
  • GitLab CI/CD Automation: Ensures seamless deployment and configuration updates.
  • Windows Scheduler Automation: Provides periodic execution of Robot scripts with logs and recordings stored in the cloud.
  • Idempotent Configuration: All setups are idempotent, ensuring reliable and repeatable deployments.
  • Flexibility for Expansion: Ready to accommodate additional robots or machines as the project scales.

Key Capabilities and Achievements

CapabilityDescription
Cloud-Based DeploymentImplemented a robust deployment platform on Azure using GitLab CI/CD.
Idempotent ConfigurationEnsured reliable and repeatable setups for Robot Framework deployments.
Pipeline AutomationAutomated dependency installation and scheduler updates via GitLab Runner.
Environment ManagementEnabled seamless deployment across preprod and prod branches.
Local Development SupportAllowed Robot Framework to be run locally for debugging and testing.