A flawed software application can greatly impact the developer’s revenue, credibility, and reputation in the long run. So before delivering the software to the client, each company must ensure it works flawlessly and meets all client requirements or specifications. There are many instances when minor flaws in software have resulted in both human and monetary loss. That is why software testing has already become an integral and significant part of the software development life cycle (SDLC).
The agile software development principles do not consider software development and testing as separate processes. The agile methodology emphasizes that programmers and testers work as a team to improve the software’s quality. As an integral part of SDLC, the software testing process assesses the software’s completeness, correctness, and quality before its delivery. Simultaneously, the test results help businesses check if the software meets all client requirements or specifications.
Why is Software Testing Important for Modern Businesses?
Several studies have indicated that the cost of fixing software bugs increases if they are not identified and fixed early. When defects or bugs are detected early, it becomes easier for programmers to eliminate them. That is why most companies introduce testing in the early phases of SDLC and deploy independent QA professionals to assess the software during various stages of development.
Nowadays, IT companies develop custom and mission-critical software applications. A minor bug in a mission-critical software application can result in financial and human losses. For instance, a minor flaw in the software used by an aircraft can result in irreparable losses. IT companies must perform various tests to identify and eliminate all application defects, bugs, or flaws before it is delivered to the client.
Each modern user can choose from thousands of identical software applications. So, to keep users interested and engaged, each enterprise must deliver high-quality software. When software is tested thoroughly and repeatedly, its quality can be assessed more effectively. Based on the test result, the company can launch a high-quality product that will stay in the market longer.
Software testing becomes even more essential for businesses due to the differences between the development and production environments. While developing the product, programmers focus mainly on its features and functionality. However, these features and functionality will affect individual users differently. When the application is assessed in the testing environment, it becomes easier for QA professionals to determine the user experience accurately. The software’s performance can be evaluated more accurately as the testing and production environments are identical.
Often, clients require developers to include new features in the software during different phases of development. Each time a unique quality or functionality is added to the application, the code must be tested thoroughly. The QA professionals perform regression testing to ensure that legacy and new features work flawlessly. The tests will further help the business assess the updated product’s quality before it goes live.
Modern websites and web applications must be compatible with multiple operating systems, devices, and web browsers. Therefore, enterprises must assess the web application’s performance on various devices, platforms, and browsers. Seasoned testers use advanced tools to evaluate the website’s compatibility across multiple platforms and devices. The test results further help developers make changes to the code to enhance their compatibility and accessibility.
Many businesses deploy independent QA professionals to protect their goodwill in the competitive market. Online forums and social networks have made it easier for modern users to highlight defects or flaws in a particular software application. So, the enterprise needs to ensure that the end-user detects no bugs or faults. When the software is tested thoroughly, the chances of users detecting bugs are eliminated. Thus, software testing will help developers impress users and help them stay in business longer.
With more businesses adopting agile methodologies, software development and testing have become inseparable. Each company must invest in comprehensive software testing to achieve higher returns, enhance its reputation, and retain clients.
