Prior to the official release of any software products into the market, they have undergone an intensive software quality testing process, which has been determined and planned before going into actual production.
How? By having a test strategy in place, that is. It helps define testing approaches, scopes, and coverages. Many have confused test strategy with test plan and often used them interchangeably. In reality, the test plan defines the project scope, the test focus, and the methodologies in the software testing process. While test strategy describes the testing approaches guidelines, and testing types used in the projects to accomplish the testing objectives and goals. Generally, the testing plan sets out the project’s vision, and the testing strategy is the action plan to achieve it. Typically, the testing strategy would come before the test plan, or be a part of the test plan depending on each organization’s standards and processes.
To unleash the power of software quality testing, one must master the knowledge of what effective testing strategies might be. While some tests demand a deep understanding of code, others can be performed without it. Each testing strategy necessitates unique technical skills, knowledge, and tools to achieve success. Embrace the diversity of testing approaches and discover the optimal strategy for your project. Just like how manual execution is an absolute for certain tests, while automation offers a faster alternative for others.
In this article, we will be exploring different types of software quality testing strategies that help to have a swift, precise, and efficient verification of websites and mobile applications. Stay tuned to reveal the secrets of maximizing the testing process for optimal results later in this post.
Different Types of Software Quality Testing Strategies
Static Testing Strategy
Assessing the quality of a system without running it may appear challenging, but static testing offers effective solutions to overcome this hurdle.
During a static test, specific components or elements of a system are examined to identify issues at the earliest stage possible. For instance, developers conduct desk-checking, a type of static testing, where they review their code before implementing it. Additionally, static testing can involve review meetings to assess requirements, design, and code for potential improvements.
Static tests provide a clear advantage by detecting issues in the requirements stage before they manifest as bugs in the system. This early identification not only saves valuable time but also helps in cost reduction.
Detecting bugs through a preliminary code review eliminates the need for the time-consuming process of building, installing, and running a system to detect and resolve the bug. This saves precious resources and effort in software quality assurance.
Structural Testing Strategy
While static tests are helpful, they are insufficient on their own. To uncover all bugs, the software must be tested on real devices and the entire system needs to be executed. Unit testing includes structural tests as one of its techniques.
These tests, also known as white-box testing, are performed by software quality testers who have in-depth knowledge of the devices and systems involved. They are commonly executed on individual components and interfaces to identify localized errors in data flows. A prime example of this is the use of reusable and automated test harnesses for the tested system. By employing such harnesses, developers can create structural test cases for each component after writing its code. Subsequently, these tests are registered in the source code repository and the main component during the integration phase.
Behavioral Testing Strategy
Behavioral Testing, also known as “black box” testing, emphasizes the behavior and functionality of a system rather than its underlying mechanisms. It encompasses various aspects such as workflows, configurations, performance, and the entire user journey. The primary objective of these tests is to assess a website or app from the perspective of an end-user.
Front-End Testing Strategy
The front end of an app, also known as the user-facing part, serves as the primary interface for content consumption and business transactions. Front-end testing plays a crucial role in the software development life cycle (SDLC) by verifying that GUI elements are working as intended.
Which Software Testing Strategies Are for You?
Enhancing your software quality testing approach requires a strategic mindset to put into consideration these factors:
Navigating Risks: Anticipate potential disruptions during testing that could impact the software’s functionality. Examine if new features or updates could pose risks such as crashes or compromised features, especially for established apps. In such cases, regression-averse strategies may be necessary.
Meeting Objectives: Ensure that the testing strategy aligns with the stakeholders’ requirements and needs. Beyond assessing software functionality, focus on meeting business requirements and delivering genuine user benefits.
Complying with Regulations: Verify if the software complies with industry and regional regulations in the digital world. Recognize that different geographical regions may impose distinct regulations on the same app or website. Testers should be familiar with the local regulations to comply with the legal compliance throughout the testing process.
By considering these aspects in your software testing strategy, you can effectively mitigate risks, meet stakeholder objectives, and maintain compliance with relevant regulations.
Conclusion
Having an adequate testing strategy is like building a strong foundation for your testing process with compelling testing approaches to validate the software testing objectives. Therefore, know your goals and tactics, and take your time in writing a well-thought-out testing strategy that shall make your testing process much more strategic and efficient.
