As we all know, in the current digital world, software and applications are the tools used to execute any task. The apps we use on our mobile phones, the websites we surf are all software. From the multiple stages of creating this software, software testing is one of the most important and necessary stages.

Software testing not only fixes all the bugs but also helps to build a strategy that can help to improve the accuracy, reliability, and usability of the product.

This article discusses the various elements that go into the process of software testing.

In Software testing, there are two aspects to consider,

1. Verification

Verifying the tasks that allow and make the product run in its real-time comes under this aspect. It includes inspections, reviews of test cases, and documentation.

2. Validation

Authenticating various pre-specified tasks that make sure the product is matching with the requirements of customers comes under validation. It includes running scripts, automated testing, and verifying functional dependencies.

There are some differences in both of these aspects. Check out the table below.

Software Testing– Types

There are 2 basic types of software that one must know to survive in the testing field. Automated testing and Manual testing. Let’s discuss each of these in detail.

Manual Testing:

As the name suggests, in manual testing, the whole process of testing is carried out by the testers manually. The whole process is carried out here without any automated script or tools. These tests include a bunch of test cases that are decided by the tester. Each of these test cases is then verified for its respective functions.

To execute this, the tester needs to follow the following steps,

1. Analyzing Requirements

One should know the needs and requirements of the application to execute manual tests. The basic knowledge of what the application is about and a sense of its behavior is a must. A proper study and analysis of its requirements should be done. When this is done, one gets the idea of what is being tested and makes the whole process more optimal.

2. Writing Test Cases:

When a test case is written properly, the test can be run properly and smoothly. A well-written test case, guides the tester through the whole process. Currently, there are a whole lot of softwares that helps in tipping down those test cases. Just remember, while writing the test cases, think like an end-user as they are going to use it in the end.

3. Regulate the Test Cases

When you write all the test cases, execute them, and run them by monitoring them. Note the results in terms like, Passed, Failed, Skipped. Leave the rest of the cases to be fixed by the developers.

4. Logging of Bugs

When test execution is done, you will identify bugs. Make sure that a proper way of communication is established between you and the development team so that the bugs can be conveyed to them. Many developers prefer add-ons to browsers like Mozilla Bugzilla while rectifying the bugs.

5. Reporting

Finally, a report must be made It mentions any additional conditions or assumptions that couldn’t be marked earlier. You can also mention suggestions to improve processes and validations.

Automation Testing

It’s in the name. Automation testing is all about automated ways to test the software. Here, the tester is supposed to use automation scripts to run the tests. It has taken a good grip on today’s testing strategies.

Generally, these tests are conducted on larger projects. This is done because larger projects would normally take more time if done manually. There are also cases where companies perform automation testing after manual testing just to ensure that all the test cases are covered. Before conduction,an automation test, follow the following steps for a better procedural experience.

1. Study and then finalize which tests to automate.
2. Test regularly.
3. Select the correct tool for automation testing.
4. Ensure the contribution of each test towards the efforts.
5. Keep quality data in hand.
6. Make sure that the automated scripts that you have created can accommodate changes done in the user interface.

Automation testing – When should it be done

Below are some of the conditions listed that should be considered as situations in which one should go for automation testing.

1. If the given project is complicated and large in size and scale.
2. If the given project is requiring regular testing in the same area.
3. If there are any time constraints.
4. If the software of the given project is stable about manual tests.

Tools for automation tests:

• Visual Studio Test Professional
• SilkTest
• Selenium
• Test Complete
• LoadRunner
• Testing Anywhere
• WATIR
• HP Quick Test Professional
• IBM Rational Functional Tester
• WinRunner

Software Testing – Techniques

Now, after knowing about the types and their aspects of software testing, let’s have a look at the techniques used in this process. There are 2 primary techniques of software testing, Black Box Testing, and White Box testing.

1. Black-Box Testing

Black Box Testing mainly focuses on the internal features of the system. In this case, only the system coder has the access to the source code. This is why the tester here needs to perform the tests under the supervision and guidance of a proper developing team for inputs and outputs.

In the case of black-box testing, the perspectives of testers and developers get separated. That is why it is the best suitable option for large code segments. But the side effect of this being the complication increased in designing the test cases.

2. White-Box Testing

White Box testing mainly focuses on the structure or workings of the system and the program logic. To go ahead with this, one has to first comprehend the internal workings of the code. This is a lot easier than working with the code.

In this case, as the user is having proper knowledge of how the code is functioning, it becomes easier to detect the data to be tested. This is the reason behind it also having names like open -box testing or Glass-box testing.

Software Testing – Levels

Also, during testing, some levels need to be considered. These levels are briefly divided into 2 types. Functional testing and Non-functional testing. Let’s have a look at them in detail.

Functional Testing

This is performed at the level of the actual development of the software. This makes sure that all the requirements are fulfilled. Also, the execution of the test takes place only when a piece of a certain module is complete.

It is a 5-step process,

1. Define the functionality which is to be tested.
2. Draft and design proper test cases.
3. Compare the output bases on the designed test cases.
4. Execute the test cases and write scenarios.
5. Compare the actual results and the expected ones.

Below is a list of the tests that come under the level of functional testing.

1) Unit Testing:

The tests that are performed before handling the program to the testing team for executing test cases.

2)Integration Testing:

The tests that are performed to verify if the parts of the software are functioning well when put together.

3) System Testing:

The test that authenticates the whole system as one. It is performed when all the components of the application are put together. It checks the behavior of the whole to be at some quality standards.

4) Regression Testing:

A lot of times, there are some unplanned bugs in the system. These can cause trouble in other parts of the system. Here, Regression testing helps.

5) Acceptance testing:

Executed all along by the Quality assurance team, this verified the final specification meeting the requirements. This is considered as one of the important partsof functional testing.

6) Alpha Testing:

This one combines all the above-mentioned tests for a final review before testing by the end-users. This is performed by the developers and the QA team.

7) Beta Testing:

You must have heard this from any techno-geek. This is the final test before the release of the application. This is done by a chosen set of customers. It could be anyone from any non-technical team or any new user. Here, the application is run in real-time to check its behavior.

Non-functional Testing

This level of testing focuses on the errors caused by external factors such as Database processing, Network, Client-side downtime, etc. This includes the following testing types.

1) Performance Testing

Performance testing is about detecting bugs that harm the stability, speed, and reliability of the software. Based on its quantitative and qualitative elements, this type can be further divided into Stress testing and Load testing.

2) Security Testing

This type checks for flaws in the security code of the program. It focuses on Validations for inputs, scripting, confidentiality, attacks due to SQL insertions, virus attacks, etc.

Conclusion

If you are a newbie in the field of software testing and reading this blog, now you know it! These were just some of the basics of software testing which we tried to gather along in this blog.

Things can get geekier and more complicated if you choose them to be. But if you follow some simple methods and steps, this field will be a piece of cake for you.

How VTEST can help

With a team ranging from absolute newbies who are confident and enthusiastic to experienced pro players who excel at what they are doing, VTEST is all set to change the game of software testing. At VTEST, a stable and cheerful work culture enhances the quality of work and helps us in achieving a fine and happy output.

VTEST it!

About VTEST

VTEST is an independent software testing company catering to product and service teams across the globe. We are a team of software testers who are passionate about quality and love to test. We develop an in-depth understanding of the applications under test and include software testing services strategies that deliver quantifiable results.

In short, we help in building incredible software.