How To Get Started With Software Testing

Testlio

October 11th, 2024

This makes testing essential for delivering a smooth user experience. Without it, your app’s ratings and success can take a hit.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the basics of getting started with software testing. First, you’ll learn the importance of a strong test strategy. 

Follow along to build confidence and precision in your testing efforts. Let’s get started. 

What is Software Testing?

Software testing is the process of checking if a software application works as intended. It helps identify bugs, errors, and issues that could affect user experience. 

For example, when testing a mobile banking app, you would verify if users can log in, view their balance, and transfer funds. 

If the app crashes or shows wrong information, the testing process helps catch these problems.

There are two main types of testing: manual and automated. In manual testing, testers actively use the app to find issues. They click through features and ensure everything works smoothly.

On the other hand, automated testing uses tools like Selenium or JUnit. These tools run scripts to check specific functions, like confirming that the login page works every time.

How to Test Your Software?

Here are some of the easiest steps on how to test software:

1. Test Strategy

Your goal is to be as effective as possible when testing your app. A strong test strategy will guide you toward that goal. It outlines how to approach testing in a way that maximizes efficiency and results.

To be a good tester, you must actively search for defects in your app. Setting up easy tests that your app will pass doesn’t help anyone. 

Instead, focus on identifying issues that impact performance. A well-designed test strategy will tell you which type of testing to use, in what order, and how much effort to allocate to each task.

When creating your first test strategy, start by prioritizing the most important features. If you’re testing for a client, ask them what areas matter most. 

If it’s your own app, the sheer volume of things to test can feel overwhelming. Take a moment to breathe and focus on the key features first.

Without a solid strategy, you risk wasting time on low-impact tasks. Remember, users don’t mind small bugs—they care about anything that disrupts their experience.

2. Testing Plan

A testing plan helps you stay organized. It outlines what will be tested, for how long, and by whom. This step ensures everyone knows their role and what to focus on.

Think of the testing plan as your roadmap. It clears your mind and prepares you for the app’s release. In your plan, don’t just list what’s being tested. 

Also, note any dependencies between tasks. This way, you avoid surprises that could disrupt the testing process.

Both your test strategy and testing plan are dynamic. You’ll continually update them as you find new bugs. 

Doing this keeps your testing process efficient and up-to-date with any new discoveries.

3. Test Cases  

You should prepare test cases as you write the program. Each feature or step in the program needs an expected result. 

For example, when signing into an account, the expected result is landing on the home dashboard. If that doesn’t happen, the test case fails.

To run the test, you input the expected outcome into the test case. If the result doesn’t match, you have a failed test case. Test cases follow a simple pass/fail rule, making it clear if something is working or not.

Prioritize test cases based on the most valuable parts of your app. If you’re testing for a client, discuss which areas they consider most important. 

Ideally, all test cases should be prepared in advance, except for a small amount of ad hoc testing. These cases should be developed alongside the app itself.

A well-designed test case ensures that all requirements are met. It also increases the chances of identifying defects early in the process.

4. Test Data

You shouldn’t run tests on real user data. Instead, it’s important to create a set of test data specifically for testing purposes. 

For example, this test data could include sets of names, addresses, product orders, or any other information relevant to your app.

During testing, you’ll be creating, updating, and deleting data. You wouldn’t want to risk altering or deleting real user data. 

That’s why using test data is crucial—it allows you to test your app’s functions safely. You can modify this test data to ensure every feature of your app works as expected.

It’s also important to note that test data should be developed alongside your test cases. This ensures that both elements work together to assess the app’s functionality fully.

5. Test Environment

The environment you test in is just as important as the testing itself. Most apps are multi-platform, so you need to ensure that your tests cover all devices the app will run on. 

This includes different screen sizes and operating systems. For example, if you’re developing an iOS app, you must test it on all relevant Apple devices. 

While this may seem obvious, it’s a crucial step that can’t be overlooked.

When conducting performance or usability testing, you might need an entire room full of devices to properly test the app across platforms. 

Before you begin testing, make sure your testing environment is fully set up. This includes having the right materials and devices for you and your team. 

Without the proper setup, you won’t be able to test your app with confidence, and crucial issues could be missed. Always ensure your environment is ready before testing begins.

Conclusion

Software testing is crucial for the success of any app in today’s competitive market. As apps evolve, your testing strategies must keep up. 

Start by creating a clear test strategy. Then, build detailed test cases, manage test data effectively, and set up a reliable testing environment. These steps ensure your app delivers a smooth, user-friendly experience.

If you’re testing your own app or a client’s, these basics will guide you toward a successful release. Effective testing improves performance, boosts user satisfaction, and enhances app ratings.

Ready to improve your app’s quality? Testlio’s expert testing services can help you deliver flawless performance.

Start testing with Testlio today and give your users the best experience possible!