This is a Drupal core issue.
Problem/Motivation
Based on conversation in #3057420: [meta] How to deprecate Simpletest with minimal disruption, it's likely that we'll move simpletest module out of core, to be a contrib module. Since that meta is basically accomplished, we have flexibility in what we decide to do with the simpletest module. That is to say we can remove it and the testing system will still work, so the question is: Should we remove it, and if we do, should we make a contrib module out of it?
Making it a contrib module would allow some flexibility for those who wish to use simpletest's WebTestBase framework, and/or also use the UI test runner.
Proposed resolution
- Remove simpletest module from Drupal core
- Open a beta-blocking tracking issue to ensure that contrib modules with simpletests can have them run via DrupalCI (with some or no changes). If that's not complete by beta, we'd need to revert the removal commit or discuss further
- In a follow-up, decide whether run-tests.sh should support running
TestBase-based tests, either as a supported feature, or as a short-term scaffolding while the contrib module is being developed. But leave that support in for now
Remaining tasks
How to deprecate and remove the module while not ruining people's day?
- run-tests.sh (at least for now) will run simpletest tests if simpletest module is installed.
- Can DrupalCI automatically install simpletest module or does it need to be an explicit dependency?
- If it's an explicit dependency can we prompt somehow?
- The contrib module will need manual testing for the simpletest UI and run-tests.sh to ensure they actually work as part of making a stable release.
Related non-core issues:
- #3093621: [META] Plan to get a stable D8/D9 release of the SimpleTest module
- #3093460: Make tests pass for 8.x-3.x (D9)
- #3077428: Modules that have a composer namespace of project-modulename cannot be patched
User interface changes
API changes
Data model changes
Release notes snippet
Dear SimpleTest, thank you for all the years of service. You helped drag Drupal from the depths of the untested to its almost test driven state now. You have watched over us as we went from no passed tests to over 25000 passed tests. We owe you much, you will be remembered. The time has come to rest in the pastures of contrib, you have earned it.
