An Introduction to Agile Testing Methodology
With software testing shifting left (i.e., testing is becoming more present in the initial stages of development) the need for an organized project management strategy to keep up with multiple operational factors in the software development life cycle (SDLC) are more immanent than ever.
Relying on Agile methodologies, the testing teams can operate on more levels and secure a bug-free/defect-free product that is constantly tested in all integration stages. For that reason, Q-Pros has adopted Agile practices and consolidated them with our testing process, assuring a swift and efficient outcome for our clients.
In this article, we will define the Agile testing approach and connect the dots between Agile and modern software testing and software development.
What is Agile Testing?
Unlike its predecessor (the Waterfall method), which had a more linear approach, Agile focuses on reiteration and feedback. Agile methods would emphasize flexibility and cooperation between more than one stakeholder in the entire SDLC.
A key feature that distinguishes Agile methods is that it relies heavily on continuity and constant testing, gathering information and feedback, and providing it to developers. Agile would increase the quality of the product and ensure improvements, clearing the way and allowing for more integration testing to take place within the process.
The main principle in Agile is breaking any project into phases and sprints. It involves constant collaboration with stakeholders. So instead of waiting for one project to end to start with the other, teams cycle through a process of planning, executing, and evaluating.
Benefits of using Agile Methods
Here are some of the main benefits of using Agile methodology:
-
- Develop better quality products
- Strengthen the relationship between end-users and product owners by constantly collecting feedback
- Track bugs quickly
- Saving time and cost and decreasing the risk of releasing crashing products
- Gaining more flexibility and allowing for more creativity and improvements
How Agile Mythology Works in Testing
After defining Agile and its benefits, now we will investigate the ways to do it –
Firstly, the Agile method can only be achieved through early planning. We start by gathering information from stakeholders and planning the scope of the project.
Next would be establishing a testing plan that ensures Quality and aligns itself with the requirements. The testing plan would include milestones, where involving stakeholders would meet in weekly meetings to discuss the ongoing progress of the project at hand.
Agile methods embrace mistakes and lesson learning. One distinct value of Agile is that allows the teams to circle back and improve based on previous trials.
One way we can fully achieve an Agile-based workflow would be to rely on modern project management software. Tools such as Jira, Azure, ClickUp, and many others are used to assert Agile principles in projects.
Agile Testing & Q-Pros
Agile testing goes hand in hand with QA, it is now becoming an inseparable approach to setting new guidelines for projects. As a leading testing service provider, Q-Pros takes Agile development as a criterion for any service we provide to our clients.
In the coming years, Agile methodology will slip its way into all areas and industries because of its flexibility and clarity concerning achieving desired outcomes.
Learn more about Q-Pros and our approach and request a service via our online form.