Unable to Click Appian UI Tabs Using FitNesse v25.2 Automation (a!tabItem Component)

Hi Appian Community,

I am currently automating an Appian application using FitNesse v25.2 and have encountered an issue with tab navigation.

The tabs on the page were developed using the a!tabItem() component. While executing the automation, I am unable to click or switch between tabs through FitNesse. Other UI elements on the page are being identified and interacted with successfully, but the tab controls are not responding to click actions.

Environment:

• Appian Version: 26.6
• FitNesse Version: 25.2
• Component Used: a!tabItem()

Issue Details:

• Tabs are visible in the UI.
• FitNesse is unable to perform click actions on the tabs.
• Standard element identification methods do not seem to work.
• No explicit error is displayed, but the tab selection does not change.
• Tried with ClickOnText, ClickOnAction etc, but nothing seems working.

Questions:

1. Has anyone faced a similar issue automating Appian tabs built with a!tabItem()?
2. Is there a recommended locator strategy for these components in FitNesse?
3. Are there any Appian-specific attributes or configurations that should be used to make tab controls automation-friendly?
4. Any alternative approach to navigate between tabs during automated testing?

Any guidance, examples, or best practices would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance!


UI Looks like below: