Software testing is a mandatory step to release a quality product that meets user requirements. Testers can use various methods and approaches to test applications and programs. The choice of testing methodology depends on many conditions and can be decisive for a comprehensive examination. What factors to take into account and what popular methodologies are most often used by QA engineers, you will learn from this article.
What Is Testing Methodology
In simple terms, a testing methodology is an approach used by software testing company to verify functionality, performance, security, and other types of testing for software examination. Each of them has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. The correct and timely selection of the most suitable methodology will allow you to invest in the time and budget allocated for testing and guarantee the release of a product that will not have errors and defects.
Circumstances to Consider
Which methodology is best for you may depend on a number of factors. These include:
- Project deadline and budget. Some methodologies involve testing one software area after another. This approach can be cost-effective but time-consuming. If you have a tight deadline, you may better try an agile methodology.
- Testing objective. You can use one of the sequential testing models if your goal is to test every piece of software for bugs. If you want to test the product in close contact with users and make changes to the development accordingly, you should select a different approach.
- Availability of industry standards. Some programs or applications must meet strict requirements and be tested according to regulatory rules. This means you cannot implement any methodology you want, just the one allowed.
- Testing scope. Large, complex, multi-tiered programs typically require a different methodology than small, simple-architecture projects.
- Business requirements. The key to quality software is its compliance with customer expectations. When testing a product, you should focus on the tasks set by the client or business and choose a methodology that best meets their needs.
In addition, the testing methodology depends on the software development approach and the presence of errors or defects in the product. Product defects may be more challenging to detect and may require more in-depth testing.
Common Testing Methodologies
There are many methodologies to choose from. Here are 3 of the most common ones that are used in different projects depending on their size, budget, goals, etc.:
Waterfall Model
It is easy to manage but inflexible to changes, so it cannot be applied to projects that require an agile approach. The model assumes that product testing will occur sequentially from the planning to the development stage and final program verification. Each testing stage must be completed before the next one begins. The model has gained widespread use in testing multi-tier applications and programs and is performed mainly by the company’s own resources.
Agile Model
It is one of the popular modern testing methodologies. Its main advantage is rapid adaptation to changes, and the challenge is close, constant cooperation between developers, testers and customers, which can be difficult to maintain.
It starts in the early stages of development and involves testing after creating each new functionality. It is carried out in constant contact with future users to quickly determine the feasibility and necessity of changes.
Validation Model
It is an extended form of the waterfall model that ensures each development phase is thoroughly tested. It has limited flexibility for the rapid elimination of possible defects. It involves checking each development stage before starting another to fully comply with regulatory requirements and specifications.
Additional Tricks for Improving Testing Results Regardless of the Methodology You Choose
It does not matter which methodology you prefer; you can improve testing efficiency using popular practices. Here are a few proven ones:
- Early involvement in the testing phase. You should start testing the product early to identify possible inaccuracies or difficulties, even during the planning phase.
- Implementing automated tests. They speed up the process and allow you to perform repeatable tests with the least errors.
- Involving AI. It can improve automation, expand coverage, and reduce the workload of testers.
- Promoting collaboration. To release quality software, developers and QA engineers must be in constant contact and be open to changes or improvements.
- Using modern tools. The software testing tools market is constantly expanding, and your goal is to implement the best of them to improve testing quality.
Choosing the appropriate methodology often significantly impacts the thoroughness, speed, and cost of testing. By determining the right approach, you can influence not only the deadline but also the total quality of the product.
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