Web App Testing Archives - Page 4 of 6

5 Main Software Testing Issues and Methods to Resolve Them

Posted on October 31, 2017 by tbsupadminnxtbackendacc

Software testing is an integral part of any software development phase. Testing often accounts for more than 50% of the expenditure incurred in developing a particular software. The more complex is the software, the more time and resources need to be spent to make sure that flaws are detected and set right. However, often this is not the real picture.

Software or systems are often installed and rolled out with hundreds of defect in them. The result is poor performance and loss of many days both for the software development firm as well as the client. To avoid such problems team leads or managers must sort out some issues which are inherent to software testing. Let us go through 5 main software testing issues and methods to resolve them.

Inadequate schedule of testing:

Testing is a time consuming affair. It has to be so since it is done to bring out the defects or inadequacies of the system under different conditions and not to show that it works. Testing needs to go hand in hand with development. This will make sure that inadequacies or errors in a particular functionality of the system is brought to the notice of the development team and sorted out sooner than later.
However, more often than not what happens is that managers keep on postponing testing until late in the development process. This leaves very little time for final testing which results in inadequate schedule of the process.

The managers must emphasize the need for testing as a follow up and they have to make sure that development and testing of different functionalities of a system goes side by side. This will give the testing team enough time to look at the systemic inadequacies and vulnerabilities comprehensively.

Insufficient testing environment and tools:

Tools and environments are backbones of proper software testing. However, testing is often carried out in inadequate testing environment. An over reliance on manual testing or COTS testing tools is another aspect. Moreover, some of the environmental components themselves suffer from defects. What is commonly seen is that test environment, test data and test software are not under adequate configuration control.

Team managers must ensure that actual or close enough hardware and software requirements are met in a testing environment. This will make sure that testing brings out the flaws that would actually evolve during operations by the end user
Team managers must also deploy automated testing tools if the testing process is complex, as involving more human testers is not possible. This will make sure that testing is carried out fast, with limited resource and repeatedly and can bring out more flaws in the system

Wrong testing mindset

Often the mindset of the software testing team revolves around finding out functionality of the system rather than finding defects in it. This itself prohibits the team from finding out flaws in the software.

It is the duty of team lead to inculcate the notion that testing is done to find fault with the system or software under different conditions and not to prove that it works

Testing lessons are often ignored

It is often seen that same type of problems are repeated in systems,projects after projects.

This is purely a management related problem. Management must ensure that team leads are careful enough to document each and every lesson learnt in previous projects and implement them in projects thereafter.

Poor integration of testing and engineering processes

Often it is seen that testing and engineering processes are not properly integrated. This means that components or subsystems are often tested for flaws before they are mature enough to be tested on all parameters. Moreover, there may be some project specific needs that need to be looked into. One size fits all formula does not apply to software testing.

Testing team must ensure that components and subsystems are tested when they are mature enough to be tested on all parameters. This can only happen if the testing and engineering team works are well coordinated.

Conclusion
For letting us conclude, it is best said that unlike a single person, being a team is smarter. So, the best advice is to get together and fly high. Large enterprise and customers should not spend too much time accounting for errors which come up. Following a good and systematic practice for your QA needs will certainly provide quality to your team.

How AI will Change the Software Testing

Posted on October 27, 2017 by tbsupadminnxtbackendacc

Software testing has always been an integral part to the success of any product in the market. Be it a newly launched product or the latest version of the existing product, it is important for companies to make sure that each of its product passes through a stringent quality test to make sure that it meets the set standards.

Gone are the days when companies used to rely on manual testing. With the advancement in technology, the companies have almost switched completely to the automated mode of testing.
And, now the day is here when more and more companies will be seen using artificial intelligence (AI) in its software testing process.
AI has become the new buzzword as more and more companies are getting increasingly dependent on machines and computers to perform tasks that would have otherwise been performed only by humans.
This form of intelligence has simplified a lot of tasks and one of those is testing. All one needs to do now is feeding the computer with the required data, setting the required logic and simply running the testing process.
Shortcomings of Manual Testing
Although considered to be a reliable form of testing, manual testing has its own cons. These, in turn, reduce the efficiency and performance of the entire process. Some of the common issues of using manual testing are:

Time-consuming.
Limited testing scenarios.
Limited possibility of testing manual/automation scenarios.
Maintaining the code as per QA trends.
Lack of automation

Benefits of AI in Software Testing
Incorporating AI in software testing is an apt decision as doing so will not only save a lot of time and labour but also will benefit in a number of other ways like:
1. Better Quality:
Using AI in software testing after the process of development not only saves time but also helps in ensuring better quality. It predicts, prevents as well as automates the entire process of testing using self-learning algorithms.
AI will not only support and improve the requirements models and test cases but also provide more sophisticated and refined form of text recognition and better code generators.
2. Quick and Reliable:
Using AI in the software testing process will save a lot of time of the development team. This is because using AI helps in delivering quick and faster results that are also reliable for the team.
Using AI will not only allow the team to use data to develop better projects but will also help them prevent any sort of repetition of errors done in the past.
3. Early Feedback:
Automating the entire testing process not only saves a lot of time but also helps the developers in collecting quick feedback. Collecting early feedback helps in ensuring that the bugs are fixed quickly and the better product is soon launched in the market.
Using AI will also allow the team to spot any or all sorts of bugs that might have occurred during the previous development process and avoid the same so as to ensure the delivery of a better performing product.
4. Traceability:
Since everything is stored on a machine, it becomes easier for the developers, testers and other team members to quickly trace and access the details of any testing process that has been executed.
Whether it is about missing a test case or identifying a dead case, all is possible with ease using AI.
5. Integrated Platform:
This type of testing uses one integrated platform and is also adaptable to client technology landscape. Having one single integrated platform makes this process a reliable process to execute a test.
Since the projects are built on open source stack making the project flexible and agile, cost effective and secure, AI testing can be executed much more smoothly.
6. Script Automation:
Using AI will end the need of creating a test design or automating a test script. This is because all this will be done and executed automatically by the AI algorithm.
With AI, it gets easier for the system to go through the log files as well as improve the test planning and coverage of the system.

Apart from testing, AI will also make developers as well as applications smarter. Using AI will make developers and applications smart in the following ways:

Quick turning of an idea into a code using better code generators.
Precise estimation of time lines.
Quick identification of bugs and effective remedies.
Automated decision-making about the next step of development and testing.
Enable quick and easy human interaction.
Applications capable of learning on their own.

However, it is true that AI has an ability to simplify a lot of tasks. But, it is important to find a balance between the role of a machine and human.
Being completely dependent on any of the two might hamper the productivity as well as performance. Therefore, the best way out is to find a way in which both machine and humans can exist simultaneously, delivering maximum results.

10 Industries Where Blockchain May Cause Massive Disruption [Infographic]

Posted on October 24, 2017 by tbsupadminnxtbackendacc

Blockchain technology has topped the headlines in various sectors due to its potential to disrupt and transform different industries. As an efficient and moreover a reliable way for storage and data exchange, it can be used to reform industries that rely on accessibility of certain data.

Being a complex form of technology, Blockchain is a globally distributed database that can run on various devices where not just information but anything of value can be stored like money, music, art, scientific discoveries, votes etc. where it can be also moved and stored securely, regardless of location.
This technology is beneficial as it works as a system of record that is shared among participants of different business networks, eliminating the need for disparate ledgers. Each member would have the access rights, where confidential data is shared on a need to know basis.
So, there’s no doubt that blockchain technology has the chance to change things, as its more a unique data structure where authorization is vital for digital transactions and are established as a result of the configuration of blockchain technology.

What is A/B Testing? How to Use it?

Posted on October 11, 2017 by tbsupadminnxtbackendacc

Websites and apps with high conversion rates have something unique in them. This uniqueness is nothing but the optimal distribution of attributes that pull the visitors and convert them to customers. To achieve this balance, the company or the developers have to hypothesize different scenario and design the attributes accordingly. The process has the name A/B testing
However, how do you compare between two versions of the same website? How do you know that the painstaking efforts in changing the attributes, here and there, have really led to higher conversion rate? You can rely on A/B testing for all these.
What is Open Source A/B testing Software?

The essence of A/B testing is like testing a copy of a page or app with the B copy of it. It is also known as bucket testing, since you split the page or app into two with different attributes and then experiment with them for their relative efficacy in achieving higher conversion rate.
Why should you do A/B Testing?
1) Trial and error
With open source A/B testing software you have the ability to test the performance of your website or application with two different attributes. Let us say you made a landing page of a website and now want to see if changing some attribute like colour, font or anything else will make some difference in terms of user satisfaction and conversion rate.
To see that you need to change the attribute that you think may make a difference and use the A/B testing open source software to experiment with the traffic and conversion rate in each version of the page. Such trial and error to arrive at the best product is possible with the help of A/B testing open source software.
2) Data integrity
If you are using third party analytical services like Google Analytics or Adobe Analytics your data integrity may be lost. You need to handover your business critical sensitive data to these third party analytic firms. With A/B testing open source software you need not lose hold of your data. So data integrity is maintained.
3) Customized User Interface
For conducting different tests, you need a user interface that is customized for attributes specific to your business goals and needs. With A/B testing open source software, you are able to not only experiment with pages and apps, but also have the results of the split test reflected in a user friendly interface.
4) Real Time Result
Experiments with any A/B testing open source software can get real time results, and this helps the organisation in minimizing the time required in experimentation.
5) Selecting the most suitable Open Source A/B Testing Software
A very important aspect of selecting an A/B testing software is to see that it integrates with a variety of renowned content providers. This will ensure good content for your site and if your goal is better conversion rate then, the software must also have a feature of tracking revenues, sign ups, conversion rates etc. Another important aspect to note is the unlimited undo which will help in fixing mistakes.
How To do A/B testing?
Shockingly, numerous marketers are as yet doing unplanned tests without keeping clear objectives and regulations at the top of their priority list.
They don’t consider a definitive motivation behind the content before playing out and at last, they don’t notice any growth.

Keep in mind what works for your competitor, may not generally work for you! You must never aimlessly follow the success of other marketers without testing it on your individual platform first.
When you direct A/B testing, firstly, answer sensibly every below-listed question prior to starting in the accurate pattern.
What is my objective; boost conversions to the website or more signups or to increase income?
How am I going to assess results subsequent to actualizing A/B testing?
What things will I alter or enhance after this testing?
Did the real results coordinate with my assumed objectives?
Subsequent to deciding your primary objectives, the following level is choosing what components ought to be tested keeping in mind the goal to boost your conversions.
A conversion is another approach of saying the number of individuals who achieved your objective.
Now, after all this, you can start by establishing your A/B testing for your social media campaign.
Remember the given crucial tips to successfully execute A/B Testing for your social media campaigns.
For what A/B testing is used for?

Email campaigns
Individual emails
Website design
Multimedia marketing strategies
Paid internet advertising
Newsletters

How A/B Testing works?

Have an idea about what to test from the initial stage itself
Make two version of the update that’s about to be implemented. Or a new product
Subject it to customer review
Have a clear idea about how the website /competitor product is performing
Choose the correct tool to analyse the traffic change and user behavior
In your testing program create variation based on hypothesis
And wait for the response.
Make sure that you have a clear idea about the results you are looking for
Tests needs to be carried over simultaneously

Process involved in A/B Testing

Identify the real problem that you are experiencing, no conversions is can’t be considered as a real problem. Emphasis should be one of the multiple problems that’s preventing conversions
Find out what’s relevant for the user by analyzing user data
Develop a hypothesis to test
Run A/B test with various versions of the page or the software
Once the test is over analyse the results to find out what worked and what not
If an option wins in the test, again, test it against other options which are equally successful.

A/B testing your social media Campaign

Outline Your Plan

The more conscious and centered you are about each progression of your testing, the steadier your discoveries will be.
As already said, the initial step is to decide the objective of the test. It may be to increment average sales per client, get more repeat buys or grow conversion rates.
You ought to likewise have an objective for the outcomes you need to accomplish. You know where you are currently, so you have to set an objective for where you need to be.
Also, one must invest in the right tools. There is a lot of A/B testing tools accessible that will assist you in setting up, running and assessing tests.
Make certain to look into a few alternatives to locate the one that best obliges your social media needs. It’s a little yet great investment which will eventually upgrade your net revenues.

Discover Your Target Audience

Prior to beginning a social media campaign, you need to become acquainted with your targeted audience.
This procedure for testing is one of a kind, in that you will not be changing the real content of the social media campaign.
Rather, you will demonstrate a similar post or ads to different sections to observe which one will respond best.
When testing Facebook advertisements, for example, you will, for the most part, need to fragment by area, gender, age, platform, device, or interests.

Strategize With Certainty

A/B testing is possibly the most effortless path for the marketers to advance their online business through social media platform for more conversion.
With the assistance of this philosophy, you can undoubtedly wipe out the mystery and take steps that give results through increased conversion rates and search ranking.
Utilizing this strategy, you can attempt and test variations to your web pages against the present plan and execute those that give the high-grade results.
By estimating the effect of the variation, you need to present on your social media page, you can settle on an educated choice and guarantee that it will deliver positive results. Basically, it can have a major effect on the viability of conversion rates and your business site.

Test Landing Page

Landing pages are a key component we test to check paid and organic execution.
An essential best practice here is that when you know which post copy and image perform best, you should develop your landing page depending on them.
At that point, there is conversion testing.
Tools make it simple to set up modifications of your landing page.
These can go from slight changes, for example, CTA buttons to totally extraordinary styles.
In the last situation, every variant will be checked on half of your users. Following parameters empower you to detect customer engagement with every change – and which accomplishes your objectives best.
Remember that the more components you include, the more post variations you should make and the all the more tracking codes you should control.

Test CTAs and Copy

One fundamental yet crucial test you can do – with different variations of your messaging copy.
By utilizing both engagement and performance estimations, you will have the capacity to rapidly make sense of which copy setting accomplishes the best outcomes.
Obviously, this relies upon the objectives behind your post e.g. engagement, traffic, conversation etc. It is suggested that you leave a couple of days between posts, however, attempt to put them out at the same time.
Also, it’s a smart idea to keep alternate components, for example, the picture same in each test. Furthermore, make sure to modify your tracking codes for every version.

Drive Your Test Minimum For a Week

Make a point to run your idea of A/B test for no less than seven days. But in case that you are testing a low activity page, you may need to wait for a couple of more weeks and considerably more, to acquire results with the statistical importance.
A standout among-st the most imperative things to remember when performing an A/B test is to dependably wait till your outcomes are factually notable.
Such as deciding the time length to run an A/B test, waiting for the factually important number of visitors ought to be based off your certainty interim.

Test Pictures

Pictures are another great component to A/B test. Symbolism is crucial on social media platforms where posts must emerge to get a valuable attention of the users. Here too you should utilize differentiated tracking codes.

Gather Data

By utilizing the analytics tools, you will get assistance on verifying which particular territories of your social media content you ought to A/B test. For a more granular understanding, you could utilize a heat map to discover how clients are or are not utilizing your marketing initiative to get a strong beginning stage.

Get Customer Involved

You may have many A/B testing plans as the main priority, however, instead of wasting your time attempting all of them, get your customers included.
Invite them to take a survey about their experience with the page and distinguish objects in the conversion process that they discovered inadmissible or confusing.
Other than this, you can likewise take a look at the chat transcripts and connect with your sales and customer support group to discover the regular inquiries and reviews that the audience has.
This will enable you to recognize A/B tests that may be the most essential to actualize.

Interpret Adequacy & Repeat

Apparently, the most vital component of the test procedure is to check the effectiveness of the A/B testing.
As it empowers you to apply what you have determined from the test results keeping in mind the goal to roll out positive improvements.
The work of A/B tester is never concluded. Eventually, user choices change after some time, and you will need to keep your posts new and that locks in.

Despite the fact that you had arrived on an awesome setup for your social media content, you may need to extend your innovative models and take a stab at something new.
Once the winning post has been discovered, it is best to keep distributing that variety. Nonetheless, much of the time, a testing round will rouse new ideas to be sought after through further testing.

7 Essentials For Successful Software Testing Projects

Posted on October 3, 2017 by tbsupadminnxtbackendacc

Testing, the process ensures that the software is designed in such a way that it fulfills its business and technical requirements. This also helps in determining that the software is designed following the client’s as well as end-users requirements. The process helps in identifying the defects or flaw that may later cause financial and reputation damage to the organization.

Here we are sharing software testing essentials that would help tester is ensuring that the software testing process is done in a proper way. It is helpful to think about software testing in terms of seven essential elements that are discussed below:
Test Strategy: The purpose of testing is to point out the defects that are not apparent. When we talk about test strategy, it is about the type of testing, which will be implemented to detect the flaws of the product. The strategy is decided on the basis or requirements and information that help on finding customer’s focus. Choosing a right test strategy helps in saving time and money. It is suggested to start working on test strategy in the middle of the design phase.
Testing Plan: As the name says, testing plan deals with the testing task. This software testing essential includes all the details such as who will do which tasks, when to start, ending when, how much effort it will demand. A list is prepared that covers all the things that need to be performed for testing. The testing plan helps in identifying the dependencies among the tasks. The tester can start filling the details of the testing plan as soon as the test strategy is completed. Test strategy and testing plan keep changing with the advancement of project.
Test Cases: The development of a test case is determined on the basis of prioritizing requirement. A tester has to keep in mind the customer’s approach as well as quality dimensions that need to be delivered. Apart from ad hoc testing, all test cases must be prepared before starting the testing. The test case development occurs parallel to software development task.
Creating a test case is as challenging as software programming!! To create a perfect test case, one must possess sound knowledge of requirements and business rules, all these information help the tester in predicting the expected result. It is the expected result that works as a benchmark in deciding whether the test will pass or fail. A good test case is designed in such a way that it finds out all the visible and hidden defects.
Test Data: Now your test case is ready and to execute the test case one require a test data. The test data can be anything like names, addresses, product orders, or whatever other information the system uses. Test data development is usually done simultaneously with test case development.
Test Environment: Test environment refer the place where testing is done and for that one may require a set of equipment as well. One may require a couple of machines to create a proper test environment. When we talk about test environment, we try to create a mini-environment that reflects the environment where the software will actually run in the future. Tips to set up a test environment are the part of the test planning process and it should be completed before starting the testing.
Testing tools: Testing tools are another important aspect of software testing essentials. There are a variety of tools available in the market, the smart implementation of such tools ensure that nothing remains unnoticed from the eyes of the tester.

Tester’s Experience: All the theoretical part and tools can infer result only when it is used by someone who has the knowledge to use it. It is very important to work with a skilled and experienced tester to make the most of the available sources.
Conclusion:
For a better and precise software testing, it is important to ensure that above mentioned 7 elements are taken into consideration. Testers often complain about the lack of resources and lack of involvement in the development process at the initial stage, but focusing on these 7 software testing essentials to ensure better testing.

Why is it Important to Test an Ecommerce Application

Posted on September 28, 2017 by tbsupadminnxtbackendacc

Browsing through products in online stores and ordering them online is just one facet of e-commerce. E-commerce is a multifaceted way of conducting business online. Both B to C and B to B businesses use and rely on e-commerce these days. In fact e-commerce is driving changes in the traditional market and giving rise to new trends.

The changing trends are reflected in almost every sphere of business. Online fund transfer, digital marketing, integrated inventory management, supply chain management etc are some of the examples of e-commerce applications that have changed the face of business permanently. All these ecommerce applications have contributed significantly to transparency in day to day activities of businesses, real time inventory management, finances etc in a B2B environment. In the B2C front e-commerce applications have made life easier and even less expensive in some cases.

Here, are a few reasons why its important to test an e-commerce application:

1) Customer Friendly Designs and Features

In a B2C environment you need extreme customer friendly designs and features in e-commerce applications. However, such designs and features may sometime be at odds with the functionality of the site. This is more so because e-commerce websites may need to handle huge amounts of traffic for certain period of time followed by certain periods of lull. So it’s important that you test the functionality of a site when the traffic goes up very high. You need to see that it retains the functionality at extreme level of traffic and at the same time have customer friendly designs and features.

2) Different Browsers

E-commerce sites are loaded with JavaScript plug-ins, rich images, social media integration, product description, informative videos etc. These are the features that enhance customer experience and help visitors convert to customers. These sites are opened in multiple browsers like Internet Explorer, Chrome, Firefox, Opera etc. The developers need to ensure that the site offers a smooth experience to the customer irrespective of the browser that he or she is using. So, testing of ecommerce sites and applications should be a continuous process as any glitch would rob the company of a significant amount of revenue.

3) Different Platforms

People access e-commerce sites from a number of devices such as smart phones, tablets, computers, laptops etc. Therefore, a company needs to ensure that customers have a seamless experience across all devices. And for this, testing e-commerce sites and applications Is necessary.

4) Security and Vulnerability

Ecommerce sites and applications are more prone to security and vulnerability threats than others. Since people are using these applications to purchase products using their confidential banking data like card number, PIN number etc, it is of utmost importance that security and vulnerability of applications like Payment Gateway are always checked and updated.

5) Billing

E-commerce sites need to ensure that billing of products is done correctly. These companies offer various discounts and coupons to consumers. Sometimes the discounts are for targeted consumers such as those who make a certain amount of purchase. The billing application needs to take into account everything that goes into determining the price of the product or service availed. This will ensure customer confidence and allegiance. It also needs to take into account applicable taxes correctly. Then there are automated processes like generation of invoice and emails etc. that are integral to the billing process. To ensure all these, the business needs to conduct repeated tests on all these applications.

Final Verdict

The retail industry is highly volatile and ever evolving. Choosing the right methods and doing the right tests is recommendable before the e-commerce site is launched. By performing a strict test on your e-commerce website/application, you can certainly reduce the number of errors that crop up when the website is made live to your customers. This depicts that the site doesn’t always stay the same for too long. Therefore, it could get inordinate for many.

Basics of Embedded Software Testing Using C

Posted on September 26, 2017 by tbsupadminnxtbackendacc

Testing is an integral part of the software development lifecycle. In case of embedded systems the need for testing is even greater because of the unique features & functionalities it has to offer. Embedded systems such as those present in the gadgets, used as part of your daily activity such as the transmission system or locking system in your car, the television remote, the smartphone etc., all suffer from space and time constraint. Nevertheless, the response is needed in real time.

If the system is not able to override the time constraint then it will be termed as a system failure. This unique environment and constraints of embedded systems make it incumbent on testers to test the software rigorously. A big challenge for testers is the decreasing design cycles for developing as well as supporting new technologies. The ever proliferating range of communication mechanisms and hardware platforms necessitates the use of automated C unit testing tools.
Using Automated C Unit Testing Tools
Developers writing automated testing tools in C find enhanced quality in their software. With the usage of such testing tools, the design also improves and the time constraints of the project becomes more manageable. In normal cases, developers have to write a large set of automated tests and change codes several times during development of embedded systems. Doing the same with automated tools such as automated C unit testing tools helps the process, the software, the project as well as the developer.
The unique and very much sought after dimension of using automated C unit testing tool is that every time the code is changed all the relevant tests are run automatically. Such continuous integration is very much an essential part of good embedded software testing.
Testing Embedded Systems is Unique
Though the testing process for embedded systems is much like testing software, there are features that differentiate embedded systems clearly from other software systems.

Application development and execution platform are separate for embedded systems, but not in system software
For embedded systems there is a large variety of hardware where the system is expected to be executed. This is not so in case of software
The deployment architecture in case of embedded systems is also different from other system software. Embedded systems typically are feedback control algorithm
In embedded systems there is a co-existence of various implementation models unlike in application software
The execution platforms in case of embedded systems impose strict time and space constraints. Response has to be in real time and resource is bare minimum
There is an ever increasing standard of quality and certification for embedded systems
Embedded systems may have characteristics that are quite different from applications software. These characteristics also need to be reflected in the test plan

All these issues do affect the ease and range of testing of embedded systems.

Regression Testing with C

Developers change the codes again and again to arrive at an optimum set. Every time the code is changed or modified, automatic testing should be run to ensure that the modifications have not broken the intended behavior of the software. Through C test scripts, such tests can be automated. This can bring down bugs to a great extent. If you design a definite set of inputs/outputs the automated regression test with C will automatically execute the defined number of tests and then compare the output against the “best output” scenario. Every time the developer incorporates a change the full regression test is run to ensure that the process is not broken.

Black Box Testing with C

Black box testing is integral to embedded systems, like application software. However, because of the nature of possible inputs in embedded systems the range of black box testing is comprehensive in such systems. With automated testing tools using C black box testing can be performed quite efficiently.
How Embedded Systems Affect these Testing Procedures
Since embedded systems are designed on a platform that is completely different from the platform it is targeted and deployed, the platform is exclusively intended for the end user. Dealing with the dual platform issues, the testing tools play a crucial role and transparent, but efficient way possible. In fact, such complexities are normally hidden from the end-users.
Final Words:
It’s difficult, rather highly contentious, to give an exact overview in short. Thus testing timing constraints is as important as testing functional behaviour for an embedded system.
If the timing short comes of the system are not met, system failure is said to have occurred. And for some systems, identified as safety-critical, failure is not an option.

5 Test Data Generation Techniques You Need to Know

Posted on September 20, 2017 by tbsupadminnxtbackendacc

It is quite well-known that testing is the process in which the functionality of a software program is tested on the basis of data availability. The data available for conducting any test is the medium using which the entire functioning of the software is tested and then, the necessary changes can be implemented. But, what exactly is test data?

In simple terms, test data is the documented form which is to be used to check the functioning of a software program. It is the collection of data that affects or is affected due to the implementation of a specific module. Test data can be categorized into two categories that include positive and negative test data. Positive test data is used to validate whether a specific input for a given function leads to an expected result. Negative testing is done to check a program’s ability to handle unusual and unexpected inputs.
Test data generation is another essential part of software testing. It is a process in which a set of data is created to test the competence of new and revised software applications. This can either be the actual data that has been taken from the previous operations or a set of artificial data designed specifically for this purpose.
Generally, test data is generated in sync with the test case for which it is intended to be used. There are multiple ways in which test data can be generated. Some of these are as mentioned below:

Manual Test Data Generation

This is a simple and direct way of generating test data. Often done to cover all the essential test cases, the test data generated is, then, used to test various scenarios. Some of the common types of test data include null, valid, invalid, valid, data set for performance and standard production data.
One of the most prominent benefits of using this technique for test data creation is that it does not require any additional resources to be factored in. The test data is generally created by the testers using their own skills and judgments. However, this technique has its own disadvantages. The technique is time-taking and thus, leads to low productivity. It is difficult to get more data added as doing so will require a number of resources. Along with this, it is also important for the person entering the data to have a domain knowledge to create data without any flaw.

Automated Test Data Generation

This technique makes use of data generation tools, which, in turn, helps accelerate the process and lead to better results and higher volume of data. One of the common tools that is used in this technique is Selenium/Lean FT and Web services APIs.
One of the major benefits of automated test data creation is the high level of accuracy. There is also a better speed and delivery of output with this technique. The best aspect of this technique is that it can perform without the presence of any human interaction and during non-working hours. This, in turn, helps in saving a lot of time as well as generating a large volume of accurate data.
The major disadvantage of using this technique is its high cost. Moreover, these are available in a specific framework, which, in turn, makes it difficult to completely understand the system. This, in turn, makes it a mandate for the human resources to possess requisite skills as well as for the companies to provide adequate training to its available resources.

Back-end Data Injection

Back-end data injection technique makes use of back-end servers available with a huge database. This is because the existing databases can be updated directly using the test data stored in the database, which, in turn, makes a huge volume of data quickly available through SQL queries. However, this test data generation technique eliminates the need of front-end data entry, it should be ensured that this is done with utmost attention and carefulness so as to avoid any sort of fiddling with database relationships.

The best aspect of using this technique is in terms of its ability to quickly inject data into the system. It also demands less technical expertise from the person executing this process. Above all, it allows one to create backdated entries, which is one of the major hurdles while using manual as well as automated test data generation techniques.
But, this technique has its own drawbacks and can lead to disaster if not implemented correctly. It also requires one to have domain expertise so that he/she is able to understand the data flow in the system as well the entry of accurate database tables. There are also high risks of corrupted databases as well as application due to this technique. Therefore, it becomes important for the team to have a proper database backup while using this technique.

Third-Party Tools

Easily available in the market, third party tools are a great way to create data and inject it into the system. These tools have a complete understanding about the back-end applications data, which enable these tools to pump in data similar to the real-time scenario. Thus, it makes diverse data available in high volume for the testers.
The major benefit of using third-party tools is the accuracy of data that this offer. This is owing to the tools’ thorough understanding of the system as well as the domain. Another advantage is in terms of taking care of the backdated data fill, which allows users to execute all the required tests on historical data. Moreover, performing these tests does not require one to have detailed domain knowledge and expertise.
What bothers the users of third party tools is their huge cost that can burn a hole in the organization’s pocket. Another dis-advantage, is their limited use only to a specific type of system, which, in turn, limits their usage for the users and applications they can work with.

Path wise Test Data Generators

Considered to be one of the best technique to generate test data, this technique provides the user with a specific approach instead of multiple paths to avoid confusion. Using this technique helps the users to gain specific and better knowledge as well as predict its coverage. This technique makes the user enter the program to be tested, as well as the criteria on which it is to be tested such as path coverage, statement coverage, etc.
The test data generation techniques are multiple and varied. All one needs to do is choose the best one as per their requirements and program. If done properly, this can benefit the company in different aspects and lead to remarkable results.

What is the Need For Test Data Generation Techniques

Posted on September 13, 2017 by tbsupadminnxtbackendacc

In order to ensure the quality of the software before launch, a team of professional quality-testers performs various kinds of software testing techniques. Test data generation techniques make use of a set of data which can be static or transnational that either affect or gets affected by the execution of the specific module.
The data can be used for positive and negative testing to confirm whether the desired function is producing the expected results or not and how software application will handle unexpected or unusual data?

Typically test data generation techniques are used in conjunction with test cases and test data that can be obtained manually, by automated test data generation tools, or through a copy of test data from production to testing environment, from legacy client’s system.
The main purpose or the need for test data generation can be summarized as follows:-
1) Need of Test data generation techniques for performance testing: –
The test data which require for testing that how fast software will respond or perform under workload must be real or live data which can be obtained through customers. Their feedback or an existing set of data can give you insight into how real-world data might look like.
If you are working in a team of maintenance testing project, you can copy test data from the production environment, but while copying, it will be beneficial to anonymize – customers Bank Details, Social Security Number, and Credit Card Numbers etc.
2) Need of Test data generation techniques for security testing:
The test data which require for testing security feature of the software which it can offer to the customer’s crucial private information must fulfill criteria like integrity, authentication, and authorization.
For Integrity (check information provided by the system is correct or not) category, test data can be designed on the basis of databases, code, file structures, and design. By various permutations and combinations of user-names and passwords test data Authentication (checks the identity of the user) criteria can be tested.
The various combinations of roles, users, and operations test data will check Authorization (it checks the rights or privileges to perform certain operations by specific users) factor.
3) The need of Test data generation techniques for functional testing: –
The test data for functional testing must include positive and negative scenarios, boundary conditions (test data values at the extremities of all possible values), and all functional flows defined in the requirement.
A single set of data can be used for testing similar test cases. To keep the test data pool optimized test data such as client ID’s, country codes can be reused across test cases.
Test data creation utility or tool which is capable of generating a spectrum of data to satisfy all the data requirements so that data can be reused across the release of the product will be beneficial for functional testing.
4) Need of Test data generation techniques for Black Box testing:-
In such testing, codes are invisible to the tester and he/she can use techniques like No data, Boundary Condition Data Set, Illegal Data Format, Valid/Invalid Data, Decision Table Data Set, State Transition Data Set, Use Case Test Data etc.
Test data generation is an important area of research to carry out proper software testing approach with reduced cost as the final aim of this method is to satisfy functional, non-functional or business requirements.

A well-defined test data can certainly help you identify and correct the flaws throughout the testing mechanism. Even after making the right choice of test data technique make sure that it is re-evaluated in every phase of the software testing life cycle.

Job Description of Software Testing Analysts and Their Salary Details

Posted on September 6, 2017 by tbsupadminnxtbackendacc

There can be times when your software does not perform as expected. And this is when a software testing analyst will come as your saving grace. While focusing on meeting quality standards through your QA department, you will also have to go the extra mile to gain your customers’ goodwill. All these will be possible through a skilled professional designated as a software test analyst.

If you are planning to make software testing as your chosen field of work as a software testing analyst, here is the rundown of the pre-requisites and responsibilities along with the salary and occupational prospects that are in store for you.
Responsibilities of a Software Testing Analyst

Detect faults in software and systems by designing and developing test models
Closely analyze the bugs in the software
Get into the details of what caused the bug to crop up
Support the detection of bugs through a well-documented testing report
Effectively develop a system to recommend bug-fixing solutions to testing team and the developer
Keep a watchful eye on the success of the solutions offered
Maintain the hygiene of software and system documentation by updating them periodically

The Salary Bracket of Software Test Analysts
As per the information published in the Remuneration Report published in January 2018, a test analyst’s take home pay depends on the group he/she belongs to. A full time test analyst in the lowest paying segment can expect an average annual salary of $60,500. Those in the mid-pay range can earn $79,000 annually. And the cream of test analysts will be thrilled to sign offer letters averaging to $130,000 as their annual CTC. And if you plan to work on a contractual basis, you can quote anywhere between $60 and $120 per hour for your professional software testing services.
Prerequisites that will help you shine in your job
Ordained to design and implement testing processes as part of the software fault detection and rectification practices, you as a test analyst will become an asset to your organization provided you have some or all of the below mentioned skills.

A Good Bet for Those Who Adopt a Pragmatic Approach to Solve Problems

Essentially meant to identify, define and monitor a software product, a person who demonstrates a problem solving trait can become a perfect fit to this position. If you are the one gifted with a zeal to explore software programs and inquisitive about how they actually work, then this field of software testing can be your top choice.
It is not only about fixing an issue, you as a test analyst have to get into the details of what actually caused the bug. Only then will you be able to discuss the issue with the developer to ensure that the product is stable and bug-free. Your “eye for detail” can hence work to your advantage to deliver a product that will not require the intervention of anyone, but you.

Also Read : 11 Emerging Trends in Software Testing 2018 [Infographic]

Effective Communication and Analytical Skills

The name says it all! Software test analysts who should be able to analyze software products while testing them should also be able to effectively communicate to others the nature of the problem. You as an analyst will hence be required to explain the issue in clear terms, covering all the aspects of the issue bit by bit. This step-by-step analysis of the issue will thus help developers fix the problem.

Ability to Manage Time

Your time management skills will be put to the ultimate test when you as a test analyst will have to effectively manage heavy workloads to deliver high productivity. Typically seen during the release of a software code that should be tested, it is during such testing times that you will also have to demonstrate your organizational skills as well.

Right Attitude and Passion

It is not only with this testing job, any profession for that matter will help you reap benefits with the right attitude and passion for the task at hand. Demonstrating a high degree of independence in the style of working, you as a software testing analyst will be required to hone your technical skills in line with the emerging technologies in the field of software development and testing. With these two characteristics in place, you will always be a step ahead towards excelling in your chosen field of work.

Software Skills

It is important that you have a clear understanding of the various programming techniques along with their syntax. Knowledge of computer software and systems is necessary along with project management skills will be required to successful release a software product. Domain knowledge can also be helpful in addition to an in-depth knowledge about the system that will be tested by you.
A Sneak Peek into the Routine of a Test Analyst
After signing on the dotted line for the post of a software test analyst, you will be required to work fulltime. Late evenings and weekend tasks might become the order of the day along with certain on-call assignments. Adhering to strict deadlines, the job can be stressful. But with effective time management skills, you will be able to make it a lucrative career option when you can also travel abroad to meet clients.

While you can take home hefty pay packets, situations demanding you to deliver with short bug reports can be daunting in times of working on a mammoth project. All these on one side, the profound influence of the internet on the lives of the current generation will pave way for lucrative career opportunities for software test analysts.