A beginners&# guide to Software testing

What is software testing

The process of subjecting the block of code/functionality/system developed/designed through a well defined set of evaluation methods (called tests) to isolate bugs and defects is called software testing.

Testing ensures that the requirements provided by the customer are adhered to and that the product performs as expected in the given environment

What do we know about software testing?

• Performed to ensure the quality of the delivered product
• One of the most important stages of the Software Development Lifecycle(SDLC)
• Testing is the 5th phase of SDLC coming after development/Building and done before deployment/installation
• In the classical waterfall model SDLC is a block process in SDLC whereas in other models like AGILE or SPIRAL models it is an ongoing process as a part of Continuous Integration /continuous Deployment)(CI/CD)
• The outcome of testing doesnt stop with reporting bugs/defects. As a follow the process is required to ensure closure and retesting, hence 100% quality
• Bugs are code related issues which may or may not be critical. Usually identifiable and addressable in the development stage itself. Bugs may be a result of Syntax error, logical mistake or may be because of runtime issues. Mostly fixed by the developers. Hidden/unidentified bugs may cause the drag in system behaviour and result is under utilisation of resources
• Defects are deviations from specifications/requirements obtained and are major and need to be addressed immediately. Unfixed defects may result severe casualties in terms of resources. Usually identified during the testing phase. When the tester performs testing where the test cases based on requirements are used, deviations from specifications can be identified, turned back to the developer or discussed with customer for alternative and the issue can be addressed and fixed as per the discussion outcome.
• Testing could be performed manually by the tester using test cases development based according to requirements and/or specifications or automated using tools in which the test cases and data are fed and the output analysed for requirement adherence.
• The software could be tested for functionality where each unit of code or function could be tested, code units and functions integrated and tested, system in entirety could be tested, sanity tested, interfaces could be tested or regression(backward compatibility with existing features) be tested
• Nonfunctional testing includes performance, load, stress, security, compatibility, installation, reliability etc., where the system is subjected to test environments to assess how it behaves accordingly.

Relevance of Software testing:

Systems designed and developed are never perfect owing to the many minds that contribute to designing and building it. Software testing as a process ensures overall quality of the product. Testing assures delivery of a product conforming to client requirement and suiting the business needs. A well defined testing process guarantees that bugs are fixed and defects are identified, the interfaces are working in conjunction, the security and the sanity of the product could not be compromised. Testing results in a product able to perform as required, take any test and standup to any kind of disruptions. A verified and validated product is a testament to the highest grade of resources and their capability to deliver a longstanding and durable product.

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