January 2020

15Jan

What is Cross-browser testing

This article provides insights into one of the important non-functional testing types that usually gets overlooked during the software development lifecycle (SDLC). And how we at Q-Pros plan, design, and execute compatibility testing across different platforms without impacting the launch timeline and burdening the budget. Compatibility testing is a non-functional testing that aids in inspecting Web or Mobile Applications on various computing platforms. It validates that an application works as expected when accessed through Different Browser-OS combinations (i.e. on popular browsers like Firefox, Chrome, Edge, Safari—on any of the popular operating systems like Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android). Different devices (i.e. users can view and interact with the application on popular devices, smartphones, tablets, desktops, laptops, etc.). Therefore, the objective of compatibility testing is to release web or mobile applications that deliver a uniform user experience on a diverse, ever-growing range of browsers, operating systems, and devices. Since compatibility testing is a very wide topic and it would be a long article to cover it all here, this article is meant to focus on compatibility testing for websites and web applications. Why is Cross-Browser Testing Important? If a website or web application works well on one browser, that does not imply that it will work well on the other browsers too. Thus, this testing helps ensure that it runs on different browsers without any errors. To identify what breaks on which browser and to fix the website accordingly we need to perform this testing. If a browser is not at all supported, then the users can easily be informed about it to manage their expectations from the outset. What is the impact of ignoring Cross-Browser Testing? Imagine that a user is trying to access a website on a specific browser or OS and then have the page not displayed correctly. The user is likely going to do one of two things. Assume that the site has an issue and leave to return later or assume that the site is broken and leave to find an alternative. Browser vendors follow Open Web Standards, but they have different interpretations of those standards. Since they render HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in unique ways, thoroughly debugging the website’s source code is not enough to ensure that your website will look and behave as requested, and on different browsers (or different versions). Cross-browser testing helps with that by pinpointing browser-specific compatibility errors so developers can debug them quickly. It helps ensure that all target audiences can access the website without issues. How to best select which browsers to test? The various combinations of browsers, devices, and operating systems, make it impossible to build a test for every mix that may exist. Hence, we at Quality Professionals leverage market-leading tools (from vendors like SmartBear, Google, Microsoft, etc.) to automate the test where it gets done once and replicated across all required combinations. However, for manual compatibility testing, it would be more realistic to focus the effort on maximizing the web application reach within the market of the targeted audience. To do this, we first work with our clients to lock down the most critical browsers and versions: Based on market share (popularity) in specific countries or regions. Based on the traffic stats of the web application itself. We usually work with the digital or marketing team that handles the application or website. Q-Pros Our test engineers at Q-Pros take the data, and then we accordingly prioritize the efforts, so we start with common ones first. We also test responsiveness to ensure we mimic users accessing from Smart Devices. So, what exactly is cross-browser testing? Simply put, it's the process of testing your website or web application across multiple browsers and devices to ensure compatibility and functionality. Whether your users prefer Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Internet Explorer, cross-browser testing ensures that your site looks and performs its best on every platform. Why does it matter? Well, consider this: studies show that nearly half of all users will abandon a website if it doesn't load within three seconds. Factor in the diverse landscape of browsers and devices, and the importance of cross-browser testing becomes clear. By identifying and addressing compatibility issues upfront, you're not just ensuring a smoother user experience—you're also maximizing engagement and reducing bounce rates. But cross-browser testing isn't just about aesthetics—it's also about accessibility and inclusivity. With an increasing emphasis on web accessibility standards, ensuring that your site is usable by all users, regardless of their choice of browser or assistive technology, is essential. By conducting thorough cross-browser testing, you're demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that no user is left behind. Moreover, cross-browser testing is crucial for maintaining your brand's reputation. In an age where word travels fast and first impressions matter more than ever, a glitchy or inconsistent web experience can damage your credibility and drive users into the arms of your competitors. By investing in cross-browser testing, you're safeguarding your brand's reputation and ensuring that every interaction with your digital presence leaves a positive impression. Ready to ensure that your website or web application stands out from the crowd? Our team of experts is here to help you implement a comprehensive cross-browser testing strategy tailored to your unique needs and audience preferences. Don't let compatibility issues hold you back—invest in cross-browser testing and unlock seamless user experiences across every platform today. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/ ...

14Jan

Our Approach with Software Performance Testing

by q-pros

in software testing

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In software testing, features and functionalities supported by a software system are not the only concern. The performance of a software application, like its response time, reliability, resource, usage, and scalability, is essential for customer satisfaction. The goal of Software Performance Testing is not to find bugs but to eliminate performance bottlenecks. This article provides insights into one of the tricky non-functional testing types that usually gets overlooked during the software development lifecycle. And how we at Q-Pros plan, design, and execute various performance evaluation techniques the right way without enduring a high cost. What is Software Performance testing? Performance Testing is done to provide stakeholders with information about their application regarding speed, stability, and scalability. More importantly, Performance Testing in software testing is to uncover what needs to be improved before the application goes to market. Without Performance Testing, the software is likely to suffer from issues such as running slow while several users use it simultaneously, inconsistencies across different operating systems, and poor usability. Software Performance testing will determine whether the software meets speed, scalability, and stability requirements under expected workloads. Applications sent to the market with poor performance metrics due to nonexistent or low-quality performance testing are likely to gain a bad reputation and fail to meet expected sales and adoption goals. Also, mission-critical applications should be performance tested to ensure they run for longer periods without deviations (i.e., soak testing). According to Dunn & Bradstreet, 59% of Fortune 500 companies experience an estimated 1.6 hours of downtime every week due to an unhandled high load. Considering the average Fortune 500 company with a minimum of 10,000 employees is paying $56 per hour, the labor part of downtime costs for such an organization would be $896,000 weekly, translating into more than $46 million per year. Only a 5-minute downtime of Google.com (19-Aug-13) is estimated to have cost the search giant as much as $545,000. Why do we need Software Performance testing? Performance optimization of various products, platforms, devices, and technologies. Shifting from conventional models to continuous delivery. Limited timelines and budgets while providing high-quality service. Maximizing performance of the existing infrastructure. Early detection of system performance. Common Performance Problems Most performance problems revolve around speed, response time, load time, and poor scalability. Speed is one of the most important attributes of an application. A slow-running application (i.e., high time-to-interact) will lose potential users. Performance testing guarantees that an app runs fast enough to keep a user’s attention and interest. Here is a list of the most common performance problems: Long loading time - Load time is normally the initial time it takes an application to start. This should generally be kept to a minimum. While some applications are impossible to load in under a minute, Load time should be kept under a couple of seconds if possible. Poor response time – Response time is the time it takes from when a user inputs data into the application until the application outputs a response to that input. Generally, this should be very quick. Again, if users wait too long, they lose interest. Poor scalability – A software product suffers from poor scalability when it cannot handle the expected number of users or if the application does not accommodate a wide enough range of users. Bottlenecking - Bottlenecks are obstructions in a system that degrade overall system performance. Bottlenecking is when either coding errors or hardware issues cause a decrease in throughput under certain loads. Bottlenecking is often caused by one faulty section of code. The key to fixing a bottlenecking issue is to find the section of code that is causing the slowdown and try to tune it. Bottlenecking is generally fixed by either fixing poor running processes or adding additional Hardware. Some common performance bottlenecks are: CPU utilization Memory utilization Network utilization Operating System limitations Disk usage Types of Software Performance testing We Cover Load testing – checks the applications' ability to perform under anticipated user loads. The objective is to identify performance bottlenecks before the application goes live. Stress testing – involves testing an application under extreme workloads to see how it handles high traffic or data processing. The objective is to identify the breaking point of an application. Soak testing – is done to validate the software's ability to handle the expected load over a long period. Spike testing - tests the software's reaction to sudden large spikes in the load generated by users. Volume testing – Under volume testing, a large number of Data gets populated in a database, and then the overall behavior is monitored. The objective is to check the performance under varying database volumes. Scalability testing - The objective of scalability testing is to determine the software application's effectiveness in "scaling up" to support an increase in user load. It helps plan capacity addition to your software system. This is critical with cloud hosting. In Conclusion Performance testing is essential for companies who wish to provide an excellent long-living digital service. Certain types of clients would include governmental and semi-governmental agencies as well as privet institutions that rely heavily on online mediums for outreach. Q-Pros works and continues to make progress in elevating performance for our clients. Request your very own custom-made testing service via our online request form ...

13Jan

The Role of QA in DevOps

by q-pros

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The need for faster time to market and superior quality is getting intense in the software development process. Organizations are reaping the benefits of the DevOps approach and are incorporating the rules within every aspect of software testing. This article provides insights into the concept of DevOps and how we at Q-Pros adapted the Role of QA into more dynamic and collaborative activities to best fit the DevOps team structure. The main objectives of adopting DevOps are to make the testing and development process more collaborative, ensure Software Quality Testing, and help launch applications faster to the market. New-age applications need real-time changes and updates to meet the growing demands of the end-users. That requires continuous development, continuous testing, and continuous delivery/deployment. The DevOps approach enables teams to constantly upgrade and deliver. Every enterprise and its style of working differs. The way they would adopt DevOps will be different too. Digital transformation and the need to be always available for end-users with the latest updates are transforming the way enterprises adopt new practices and methodologies. Every enterprise must evolve sustainably, so quality is at the core of every practice, including DevOps. In a DevOps scenario, QA integrates into the testing and development process and takes the collaborative approach, and both testing and development teams are responsible for it. In the traditional method, QA creeps in toward the end, whereas in DevOps, it comes in at every level. As for code development, the QA team pushes the new development code into production, and DevOps facilitates to ensure a seamless deployment of infrastructure and tools. Thus, it helps in releasing a code consistently. The responsibility to ensure quality is not only limited to closing bugs but covers the entire production process. Web mobile applications such as electronic services, e-commerce, or financial services applications need to be updated frequently. It is a fundamental business requirement. DevOps helps make this possible, but with QA involved, the quality of the release is guaranteed. The reality check can happen in real time rather than taking the code offline and testing it. Overall, the popularity of DevOps over the years has intertwined quality into every engineer’s responsibility. DevOps helps in addressing the needs of the market and ensures that end-users do not suffer. QA further enables and directs teams to check the application for performance and quality before it is up for delivery. The role of QA in the current software development process is changing, where the end-user comes into focus, and their needs are brought into perspective while delivering the application. Releasing new and functional updates at any point through the application’s life cycle can become a disaster if the quality is not ensured constantly. Automation of tests plays a critical role in guaranteeing quality and bringing speed to the release process. Building a QA strategy with the necessary best practices is essential for organizations embracing the DevOps movement. Establishing a solid QA strategy will help deliver effective software development and operations to achieve user experience. DevOps practices are adopted to improve the regularity of the releases and reduce defects. It is a methodology that boosts rapid, short, iterative development and deployment of applications. So, the goal of incorporating QA is to ensure continuous improvement in the delivery process. DevOps allows digital enterprises to meet the needs of the competition and enable overall business growth. As a result, enterprises can streamline and pace up the delivery of applications with changes and innovation. The disconnect between QA and DevOps often occurs due to misconceptions about the role of quality assurance in the modern software development life cycle. Even as continuous integration servers and continuous delivery practices check your code for errors, they do not ensure its quality when you define quality from your end user’s perspective rather than your code’s: “Quality is fitness for your end-user purpose.” We at Quality Professionals have implemented a criterion to verify the quality of the build and ensure no bugs get pushed to production: Code Review Test Automation Deploy to Staging Comprehensive QA Checklist Our test engineers have experience working on team collaboration platforms such as Azure DevOps, JIRA, and HP ALM, Leveraging the integration with market-leading DevOps Automation Tools. Q-Pros provides efficient testing services to clients on a global scale. We strive to deliver remarkable outcomes that guarantee error-free applications. Learn more about us and request a custom-made testing service through our online service form. ...

12Jan

Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in Software Testing

by q-pros

in software testing

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept confined to science fiction; it's a transformative force that's reshaping our world across various domains. In this article, we'll delve into the fascinating realm of AI, exploring its history, core principles, current applications, and the potential it holds for the future. The Genesis of Artificial Intelligence Artificial Intelligence, as a field of study, was officially coined in 1956, but its origins can be traced back to early philosophical debates about human cognition. Early pioneers like Alan Turing and John McCarthy laid the foundation for AI by proposing concepts such as the Turing machine and the Dartmouth Workshop. AI's development took significant strides in the 20th century, with the creation of expert systems and the development of rule-based AI. However, AI's progress was marked by periods of enthusiasm followed by "AI winters" where research slowed due to high expectations and unmet challenges. Key Concepts in AI Artificial Intelligence operates on several fundamental principles, including: Machine Learning (ML): ML is a subset of AI that focuses on creating algorithms and models that enable computers to learn from and make predictions or decisions based on data. Neural Networks: Inspired by the human brain, neural networks are a fundamental component of deep learning, allowing Artificial Intelligence systems to process data, identify patterns, and make complex decisions. Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP enables AI to understand, interpret, and generate human language, giving rise to applications like chatbots and language translation services. Computer Vision: Artificial Intelligence systems use computer vision to "see" and interpret images or video, powering applications from facial recognition to autonomous vehicles. Robotics: AI-driven robots can perform tasks ranging from manufacturing to healthcare, leveraging sensors, actuators, and intelligent algorithms. AI Applications Today Artificial Intelligence has transcended its academic roots and is now deeply embedded in our daily lives: Virtual Assistants: Voice-activated virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant have become part of our daily routines, from setting reminders to answering questions. Recommendation Systems: Streaming services, online retailers, and social media platforms use AI to suggest content, products, and connections based on user preferences. Healthcare: AI assists in medical diagnostics, drug discovery, and predictive analytics, enabling more accurate and efficient healthcare delivery. Finance: AI algorithms drive trading decisions, credit scoring, fraud detection, and personalized financial advice. Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving cars and drones use AI to navigate and make real-time decisions based on sensor data. Natural Language Processing: NLP is revolutionizing customer support with chatbots, enhancing language translation services, and improving sentiment analysis for businesses. AI Ethics and Challenges Artificial Intelligence rapid growth also raises ethical concerns and challenges: Bias and Fairness: AI algorithms can inherit biases from training data, potentially resulting in discriminatory or unfair outcomes. Privacy: The use of AI in surveillance and data analysis raises privacy concerns about how personal information is used. Job Displacement: Automation powered by AI may lead to job displacement in certain industries, requiring society to adapt to changing employment landscapes. Security: The same AI used to protect against threats can be used to orchestrate cyberattacks, creating an ongoing security dilemma. The Future of AI The future of AI is brimming with possibilities: AI in Healthcare: AI is expected to continue making significant contributions to medical diagnosis, drug development, and personalized treatment plans. AI in Education: Adaptive learning platforms powered by AI can provide personalized education experiences, enhancing student engagement and outcomes. AI in Environmental Conservation: AI can play a vital role in monitoring and addressing environmental challenges, such as climate change and wildlife conservation. AI and Creativity: AI-generated art, music, and literature are becoming more sophisticated, challenging our understanding of creativity. AI in Space Exploration: AI systems are used to analyze vast datasets from space missions, aiding in the search for extraterrestrial life and understanding the universe. AI in Robotics: Advanced robotics and AI systems are likely to transform industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. In conclusion, AI's influence on our world is profound and multifaceted, touching every aspect of our lives. While Artificial Intelligence has come a long way since its inception, its journey is far from over. As AI continues to evolve, its potential to address complex problems and enhance human capabilities is boundless. The careful consideration of ethics and responsible development will be paramount as we navigate the AI-driven future, ensuring that the transformation it brings is not just profound but also positive. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/...

11Jan

IoT Testing Applications

by q-pros

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The term “Internet of Things (IoT)” was first used in the early 21st century when a team of engineers discovered how to link objects to the internet through an RFID tag (Radio-frequency identification). The term IoT testing has stuck around ever since. Today, we are living in a world where there are more IoT-connected devices than humans. These IoT-connected devices and machines range from wearables like smartwatches to RFID inventory tracking chips. IoT connected devices communicate via networks or cloud-based platforms connected to the Internet. The real-time insights gleaned from this IoT collected data to fuel digital transformation. The Internet of Things promises many positive changes for health and safety, business operations, industrial performance, and global environmental and humanitarian issues. This article provides insights into the concept of IoT and how we at Q-Pros verify and validate implementations of such a trending technology through applying specific types of functional and non-functional testing. What is IoT Testing and Why is it Important? We have seen IoT applications growing tremendously across many critical business cases, which as a result, has made IoT testing essential to ensure quality is maintained to increase end-users’ adoption and satisfaction. [embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mBO2vqLv38[/embedyt] With IoT around, there will be challenges and changes that the QA industry will have to adjust accordingly; it will have to focus more on user-centric testing and prevent bugs at the design stage. Software testing engineers will need to develop new skills and knowledge in embedded systems testing and build an effective strategy for IoT software testing. An effective testing strategy will include: Measure the quality of testing. Review testing toolset considering user feedback. Remote testing and debugging. Analyze test results and effectiveness. Automation testing through codes to preserve quality standards at each stage. Test analytics. Data generator tool. And an effective data testing management tool as well. Types of Testing To verify and validate IoT testing applications, the test engineers need to ensure the following types of testing are planned, designed, and executed to ensure full quality coverage: Functionality Access control Identity roles management Mobile and web applications Functional business requirements Connectivity Verify the device behavior in unstable networks Data restore when there is no connectivity or power loss Usability Ease of use UI Testing UX Testing Compatibility Validating all possible working combinations of devices, operating systems and protocols. Verifying the behavior of the developed hardware/software with the older versions of the hardware/software. Verifying the behavior of the developed hardware/software with the newer versions of the hardware/software Verifying the developed hardware/software performance after adding new update/feature or after a rollback in case of a failure. Security User authentication Device authentication Data protection Data encryption Performance Device-to-device communication Server-to-server communication Device to- server communication Network performance Automated Testing The Internet of Things Solutions World Congress (IoTSWC) 2018 predicts a slow simplification of communication protocol standards in IoT development. That means automated testing will most surly fully enter this industry. For now, testing applications connected to the network often results in sleepless nights. Since we cannot approach all IoT devices by automation, the use of automated tests for IoT is always a matter of a specific device. The simulators might help to render the network of IoT nodes and deliver a range of benefits for IoT product release: Accelerated testing is one of the top features Automation can bring to IoT Quality Assurance. It removes resource limits and provides cross-device/browser testing possibilities. Test Coverage. Since automated tests are cost-effective, QA would be able to cover a broader range of app versions and desktop & mobile devices, detecting defects even in the preliminary stages. Automated Test Cases can offer a higher code coverage with the possibility of covering complex scenarios daily. Automated testing might ensure the IoT testing app is multi-user and can be deployed in a dispersed environment. As IoT is an emerging technology in 2019, the role of automated Quality Assurance (QA) is one of the ways to accelerate product delivery and raise the competitive edge of the industry. To learn more about how we leverage AI in software testing and take advantage of modern solutions to level-up your applications you can request a uniquely designed testing service through our https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/ ...