A software development cycle cannot be complete without testing. It is a critical step that ensures products that go into the market meet quality standards.
The teams run tests to identify any errors, missing requirements, or gaps. They also verify the functionality and performance of the software.
QA teams have two types of software testing. Manual testing requires humans to carry out the tests. The process can be time-consuming and prone to human errors.
Automated testing uses automation tools and scripts to complete the process. Take a look at any automation testing software. You will come across tools like Selenium, Appium, UFT, and QTP. The automation allows the QA teams to complete tasks in a very short time.
If you’re not that familiar with automated testing, these tutorials are the first step. It can provide you with the basic foundational knowledge all the way to the tips and tricks of the industry.
There is higher accuracy, efficiency, and reliability in test results. The teams can also increase test coverage areas. All these happen without the need for human intervention.
QA teams will use both manual and automation testing in software testing. It is, for example, not possible to automate things like usability tests.
Our article explores the importance of software testing in businesses today.
1. Software Testing Saves the Business Money
There have been cases of software glitches that have caught the world’s attention. In 2016, Yahoo had a data breach. It resulted in the exposure of over 500 million credentials.
In 2015, Airbus had to check the A400M plane due to fatalities in earlier flights. Nissan recalled vehicles due to an airbag sensor detector software glitch.
Without a doubt, such incidences can cost a company millions. Yet, the teams could have arrested some of the issues early in the development cycle.
Running tests over every stage will help identify any issues. The developers can then work on correcting them immediately. All these happen before the product goes out into the market.
2. Testing Allows for Implementation of Better Security Measures
Product security is a crucial factor when looking at software. Hackers mustn’t get any areas of vulnerability that they can exploit. Software testing allows the teams to identify loopholes that could compromise the system.
A company like Facebook had to learn the hard way. They did not test a preview feature on the business page. Hackers were able to access the personal data of millions of followers.
Mirai Botnet used IoT device connections to infect systems with malware. Industry giants like Reddit, CNN, Netflix, Twitter, and Guardian felt the impact. They were not able to access the internet for some time.
3. Testing Results in Better Product Quality
Businesses operate in a competitive environment. Further, customers want high-quality products that give them value for money. The only way to make sure that products meet market specifications is through continuous testing.
Let us take the example of app development. QA teams and developers use testing to check that graphics appear as they should. They also test the functionality, intuitiveness, and performance.
Companies are also starting to adopt the minimum viable product development (MVP) approach. Developers release products with basic, yet sufficient features for early adopters. The developers then wait for feedback that they use to improve the final product.
Taking such an approach results in higher-quality products. Such have improved functionalities and features that meet the end user’s expectations.
The company also gets to avoid any costly bottlenecks or mistakes. They can identify these early and take necessary corrective action. Insights from users also contribute to intelligence that can help with better decision-making.
4. Product Adaptability
Software developers must check that the products are applicable in whichever environment. These include different devices, browsers, and operating systems. Compatibility testing is essential for allowing a smooth experience on whichever platform.
Zero errors remove any performance issues. Such issues result in a negative user experience (UX). Customers also want software that does not restrict them to one platform. The company can lose business if it does not provide for software adaptability.
5. Better ROI for the Business
You start a business to make money. You can only achieve this with conversions that come from happy customers.
Software testing ensures higher user satisfaction with the products. It will have many benefits for the business. You increase loyalty when customers trust or have confidence in the products.
The customers will continue to buy from you, resulting in higher conversions. They will also recommend the same to family and friends. In the end, the business gets more customers. The return on investment (ROI) will be clear to see in the long run.
Business owners should not see software testing as an expense. Rather, it is an investment that will help the company achieve its goals.
6. Better Efficiency in Software Development
It can be tempting to neglect some aspects of software testing to save on time. This may happen when deadlines are looming. The business may want to deliver the final product in the shortest time possible.
But, in the end, what goes out may be full of errors that impact performance or functionality. QA and development teams must work together to manage time well.
A good idea is to run the development and testing as parallel processes. It will result in higher efficiency for the teams. They can also identify errors, if any, at every essential stage. The teams can then rectify such before moving to the next stage.
Final Thoughts
Software testing helps identify errors and bugs in the product. It is a vital component in the development cycle. Companies cannot afford to overlook the critical role it plays. For the business, there are many benefits, as we have highlighted above.
The process can save the company a lot of money. Recalling products is expensive. Imagine how much Nissan had to spend bringing back over one million cars. Now, consider how much time they had to spend in taking corrective action.
Product testing results in high-quality products going into the market. Customers enjoy greater satisfaction with high-performing, functional products.
Testing also confirms the adaptability or compatibility of software across different environments. It should not matter the device, browser, or operating system. The UX must be excellent at all times.
For the developer teams, there is higher efficiency. Correcting issues as they occur within each stage saves on time and money. The business avoids making changes to a product that is already out in the market.
