OTX vs. Python - Why OTX?
- Jörg Supke
- Oct 25
- 2 min read
What distinguishes OTX from other programming languages? Why the comparison with Python falls short – and where OTX demonstrates its particular strengths. OTX is different: designed for process reliability, interchangeability, and repeatability in the automotive industry.
Contents
Introduction
Why do we even need OTX? Aren't there enough programming languages already? And wouldn't Python be the better choice? I hear these questions all the time – and they're valid. Because at first glance, OTX seems like just another language. But in reality, OTX was developed for a completely different purpose: standardized, reliable testing in the automotive industry.
Different worlds: Python and OTX
Python is a great, versatile language. However, when you need to share test logic across different systems, departments, and locations, Python reaches its limits.
This is where OTX's strength lies: OTX is not a classic programming language, but a domain-specific language (DSL) designed for the exchange and reuse of test logic.
Why OTX?
OTX was designed for process optimization, not rapid coding. Its focus is on the reliable definition, execution, and traceability of test sequences across system boundaries. Some features that make OTX special include:
ISO-standardized
OTX is an international standard with clear rules for its creation and further development.
Domain-specific
Developed specifically for testing and diagnostic processes in the automotive industry.
Turing-complete
Nevertheless, powerful enough to represent any logic.
XML-based
The verification logic is stored in XML – machine-readable and processable with standard software, without proprietary parsers.
Process reliable
Each OTX node has a unique GUID – ideal for logging and traceability.
Single Source
Specification and executable test logic can be maintained in one document.
Target system independent
OTX defines the logic, while the executable code (e.g., in Python) is generated.
Expandable & testable
With over 150 specific checker rules, the quality of the OTX test logic can be objectively evaluated.
OTX and Python compared
Conclusion
OTX is not a replacement for Python – but a complement where standardization, repeatability, and traceability are crucial. When test logic needs to be executed consistently and reliably across process boundaries, there's no way around OTX.
