q-pros | Quality Professionals

03 Nov

What is Security Testing? Definition & Methodologies

One of the most important properties of software is security. This varies in broader terms to include multiple aspects, from financial information to personal information and data storage, and for those reasons, security must be taken seriously. In this article, we will define security testing, investigate its several types, and how we at Q-Pros approach security testing in the scope of software testing and QA. What is Security Testing? Security testing is a type of software testing that focuses on revealing any potential vulnerabilities and weaknesses concerning security aspects, including data loss from deliberate attacks or system errors. The goal of security testing is to conduct friendly fire on the system to make sure it is set and ready for real-time action and possible failures and survive such scenarios without harming sensitive attributes. Any system that deals with authentication-based activities (Accounts, subscriptions ...

01 Nov

Important Metrics & KPIs for Software Quality Assurance

by q-pros

in QA Tips

Comments

The success of any software product relies heavily on how well its quality is measured. The efficiency of the testing process is a key factor in ensuring revenue. Knowing what differentiates a good testing procedure and a bad one means we must have extensive knowledge of various software testing metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs). KPIs will help us determine the fittingness and suitability of the testing team and the testing types provided. As a leading software testing provider, Q-Pros follows extensive criteria to define a successful testing process. Our metrics range from team members' efficiency to solid academic and rhetorical factors based on universal standards. In this article, we will investigate the metrics and KPIs of software testing that any application should cover to be suitable for release. Here are the KPIs & Metrics that should be on top of any testing team’s checklist: Derivative Metrics - Derivative metrics are identifiers that allow the testing team to increase the accuracy of their testing process. Defect Density - Defect density measures the number of issues faced concerning a fixed period, this helps the testing team decide if an application is ready for post-production stages or if it might require more testing. A formula used to know the Defect Density is Defect count divided by the size of release divided by module. Defect Removal Efficiency - Defect removal efficiency (DRE) is the number of defects that a developer can remove before the official release date. In other words, it is the number of defects resolved divided by the number of defects at the current time of measurement. DRE is calculated across the test phases. Defect Category - It is essential to categorize the aspects of the software we are testing for, such as performance, functionality, or reliability, and many more. Review Efficiency - Review efficiency involves documentation of defects; it aims to decrease the probability of defect leakage in subsequent stages of testing. (RE) = Total number of review defects / (Total number of review defects + Total number of testing defects) x 100. Time to Test – Time of test is a key performance indicator that helps the testing team know the amount of time it takes to transition from the stage of testing to the stage of completion. It also allows us to know the level of effectiveness that the testing team operates on. Test Instances - A KPIs that measures the number of instances available in a test set, this helps increase the velocity of test execution plans. Passed Tests– This KPIs is measured by monitoring the implementation of every configuration within a test. It measures how well those configurations are in detecting the defects during the testing phases. Defects Fixed per Day - This KPIs, as the name indicates, is measuring or keeping track of the total number of defects fixed daily, this helps us monitor the progress of the overall project. Test Coverage - The test Coverage metric allows to define the level to which the software's complete functionality is tested. It resembles the completion of testing activities and would later be used as criteria of which we decide on a test as concluded. Requirement Coverage is (Number of requirements covered divided by the total number of requirements) x 100 Defect Resolution Time - This KPIs involves measuring the time it takes the testing team to verify a fix of a defect. This KPI helps us highlight where certain team members' efforts are directed and how long it takes them to resolve certain tasks. Test Economic Metrics - Testing is associated with cost, and testing procedures, by nature, slow the production by adding various steps in between the production era. Several metrics should be put in mind prior to deciding the testing approach adopted: The overall cost of testing How much it would vary in execution to the estimated budget Variance from the schedule Cost per bug The cost of not conducting any test Test Team Metrics - This set of metrics simply concludes how well the testing team is working, this could help us acquire information about certain team members or entire team sections involved in a specific area of the test. In return, this provides a way for us to empower the team in certain required areas and sustain a stronger bond between team members. These metrics include but are not limited to: The number of test cases conducted by each team member Test cases directed to each test team member Returned defects are distributed to team members Active Defects– This KPI includes identifying the open or fixed defects. Automated Testing - It is mandatory for every testing team to segregate high-priority defects that require automated means for testing. Test Case Quality - Both a metric and a KPI, measuring a test case Quality helps us evaluate test cases in accordance with the desired result. To accomplish test case quality, we rely on the following: Tests should be written and organized in a report, this report will include findings regarding defects and bugs. Test requirements should be pre-established. Testing data must cover all probable scenarios. Testing data must cover Pass/Fail scenarios. Summary These Metrics and Key performance indicators are the "Make it or break it" factor to the success of any testing company. Knowing the measure of success on every level of the project gives excellent results in the end. Implementing software testing metrics and key performance indicators will increase the effectiveness of the testing efforts. At Q-Pros, we take pride in involving experts who are extensively knowledgeable about all metrics and KPIs. Know more about us and request one of our services. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/ ...

27 Oct

QA Roles: What is a QA Analyst

by q-pros

in QA Roles

Comments

Quality Assurance (QA) involves several roles and career paths. One role that stands firmly in all QA projects is the position of QA Analyst or Test Analyst. In this article, we will look to define the responsibilities, mission, and objectives of QA analysts. As a leading testing services provider, Q-Pros relies on a diverse arsenal of professional experts. The QA roles series looks to supply insight into these professions and give a closer look at the grand scheme of the QA process. Definition: QA Analyst A quality analyst is a person responsible for implementing the principles and practices of quality assurance throughout the SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle) A QA analyst would look for flaws and weaknesses in programs and make certain that all requirements were fulfilled. They would implement plans to scan thousands of lines of code and inspect the system from several corners, such as functionality, interface, user-friendliness, and much more. The role of QA Analyst comes at the final stages of SDLC just before public release. They would also make sure that the software fits the targeted market and is fully compatible. A QA Analyst or Software Analyst would hold a professional certificate from a software testing certification board, such as the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB). The QA field in general requires a set of skills related to problem-solving and attention to detail, a skill set that is ever so emanant with QA analysts. As the job title describes, QA analysts must be analytical and exact to ensure bug-free/defect-free systems. QA Analyst Daily Roles Quality Analysts have many duties depending on the organization and project where they are stationed, but the role mainly centers around sealing the deal before releasing the product to customers/users. Here is a set of duties expected from QA analysts: Creating efficient test plans Implementing the test plans to ensure the three main aspects of quality: functionality, performance, and reliability Track and report bugs establishing a criterion to prevent future bugs and crashes in the system Ensuring layout correctness and assessing proper formatting for all aspects of interface and user experience Some roles might include conducting localization tests and compatibility checks Leading the testing team through a swift and clear path throughout the whole QA procedure. This task includes knowledge of project development methodologies such as Agile and Waterfall. Most QA jobs require a good knowledge of programming languages, that is because testing engineers need to be able to design plans that deal with code corrections and scans. It also helps the testing experts understand how systems work. QA analysts have the responsibility to be extensively experienced with multiple programming languages and dealing with various operating systems. How to Become a Quality Assurance Analyst? For starters, the minimum qualification for testing analysts is a bachelor’s degree in an IT-related field, and preferably a specific major related to software development and quality. QA analysts in many cases, even on a junior level, are required to have prior experience in QA and software testing in general. Most companies hold the QA analyst’s role with high regard in terms of accountability and proficiency, this is because the nature of the job is incredibly detailed oriented. Most QA analysts end up becoming quality managers and would hold senior positions in QA companies, this is because the nature of the job involves being present in and cooperating with multiple channels and sectors throughout the entire project duration. To become a QA analyst, here is a list of several characteristics and skills needed: Good programming knowledge Broad knowledge of a variety of software applications and hardware attention to details and the ability to think on a larger scope creativity and innovation in working methods communication skills the ability to utilize logical thinking in identifying the strong and weak points in any system Good knowledge of modern tools and constantly tracking the latest updates In Conclusion QA analysts are one of the most vital members of any QA team. They maintain structure and establish the foundation for other team members to work more efficiently. Being a QA analyst is a career path worth chasing if you want to get involved with more than one sector in the QA hierarchy. It guarantees experience and growth in the world of software testing. We at Q-Pros make certain that our QA projects are well equipped with professional test analysts who can inspire team members and assure perfect outcomes for our clients and end-users. Learn more about us and request a custom-made testing service via our https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/ ...

17 Oct

An Introduction to Behavior Driven Development

by q-pros

in Testing Methodologies

Comments

While most development procedures are centered around implementation aspects in the traditional scope, channeling the focus towards behavioral components is a new trend that can help developers guarantee that the system is delivering as expected. Behavior Driven Development (BDD) can explore ways to strengthen the collaboration between business stakeholders and technical resources, achieving better results for end-users. Q-Pros have always relied on innovative methods to guarantee an all-around testing service for our clients. In this article, we will look to introduce Behavior Driven Development and get to know a bit more about the specifics surrounding this development approach. What is Behavior Driven Development? Behavior Driven Development, or BDD, is an Agile software development methodology that centers around the behavior of the code rather than its structure. https://www.youtube.com/embed/ydddSkVz_a8 BDD involves designing and documenting the application based on what the user is expected to experience when interacting with the product. BDD drives every involving stakeholder to a centralized standpoint, where everyone is fully aware and has a shared understanding of business requirements. Why is Behavior Driven Development different than other approaches? Test Driven Development (TDD) is a process of using examples to guide the development process. In TDD, the framework loops around the activity of writing a scenario, watch it fail, fix it, and write the code. So, what is the difference between BDD and TDD? While TDD clearly focuses on individual functions, BDD focuses on a similar process but for features that are extracted based on user needs. BDD relies on writing examples via natural language rather than the language of code. One Distinguishing factor that BDD has over other development approaches is that its foundation is set based on the user's experience rather than having a rigid framework with no regard to the end-users’ experience. Behavioral Driven Development allows for enhancements and updates as the work progresses rather than waiting for the project to end. BDD opens an opportunity for a more collaborative work environment, where all SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle) stakeholders are involved within the same scope at certain points. What are the Benefits of Behavior Driven Development? Here are some of the main rewards gained from relying on BDD: BDD requires less complexity: BDD activities involve breaking down the features into smaller sections that can be managed easily by all concerned levels. It improves teamwork and leverages communication: By documenting the user requirements in the initial stages it involves everyone from the beginning. Centering around the consumers: By revolving around customer experience, it guarantees a happy user at the end. BDD keeps the customer’s needs and wants as the top criteria throughout the entire process. How to Implement Behavior Driven Testing? We can start by ensuring that all team members understand the BDD framework, then we must verify the roles of each member within the scheme i.e., Developers to develop the code, testers to test the code, and business owners to verify the requirements in collaboration with other concerned parties. The next step would be establishing a proper testing approach or testing suite that is hand-crafted for the scope of work at hand. Keeping in mind that BDD requires natural language scenarios that align with features. BDD consists of the following phrases and steps: Given – i.e., Describe the behavior When – i.e., Step definition And – i.e., Run and fail When – i.e., Writing fixed code Then – i.e., Run and pass Finally, establish a method of verifying and reporting bugs. This includes insuring that the fix worked, and the problems were resolved. In Conclusion BDD is a wonderful way to involve all teams in the development and testing process. It facilitates the work while keeping everything clear for all members. BDD will help maintain quality and speed up the process while keeping space for further updates. Learn more about testing methodologies and request a costume service today via our online request form. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/ ...

12 Oct

What is The Global Star Rating System aka “7 Stars program”?

by q-pros

in software testing

Comments

The United Arab Emirates is one pure example of thriving success. Over the years, the country has witnessed exponential growth across all fields and levels. In both Governmental and Private sections, the UAE has preserved a reputation of being a model of institutional excellence. A model that is truly worthy of following. This level of quality is achieved only through constant diligence and utter devotion, among many values that reflect wisdom in leadership and ethical thinking. This set of principles is portrayed clearly in what is called “The Global Star System for Services.” A prestigious ranking and service assessment system that empowers entities to enhance customer experience and service delivery across all channels. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 7-star program and how we at Q-Pros align our criteria to fit with such top-quality models. The Global Star Rating, Definition, and History The Global Star Rating System for Services is a service assessment model that seeks to enable institutions to better their customer's experience and services across all channels. The model intends to generate world-class services for all customers, upping the global standard for customer experience. The 7 Stars Program was created to pave the way for both private and public sectors. It looks to ease and facilitate customer engagement and preserve top-quality services with time. The Global Star Rating System (GSR) was launched by the United Arab Emirates Prime Minister in 2012, striving to increase the level of efficiency of government services. When it began, 19 service centers were part of the scheme, and in 2014, only 2 years later, that number grew to 159 centers. In the beginning, participation in the program was voluntary. The Emirati government would go about raising awareness programs and workshops to encourage entities to join. This would change later in 2015 when participation became obligatory for all government service centers. Every two years, awards are given based on an evaluation of participating institutions. “The government of the future needs to be hospitable like hotels and run 24/7 like airlines. All services need to be in one-stop shop” H.H. SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM WORLD GOVERNMENT SUMMIT 2013 The service delivery framework - The Global Start Rating system consists of 8 pillars used for the assessment. These pillars are supported by 35 elements and 233 questions that are assessed based on Maturity level. The star system model maturity levels are: Basic Developing Maturing Leading The Service framework consists of three main blocks: Strategy (The Why) - The entity would set out service delivery goals based on objectives and priority. Service delivery (The What) - This benefits the overall customer experience by defining the specifics of the service at hand, it also defines the channels and levels associated with the service. Enablers (The How) - To achieve the desired level of quality of service, entities need to empower themselves with a proper supporting process, organizational culture, and human capabilities, as well as information management systems. The Global Star Rating System (GSR) Focuses on 6 main Delivery Channels: Customer Happiness Centers: Cost-efficient service delivery. Digital Channels: Reaching a 7-star service satisfaction level on all access points, in-Person, Online, and via Phone. Contact Centers: Setting out towards an Ideal customer experience through training customer service agents and achieving customer satisfaction. Shared Service Center: Shared Service Centers are partnerships between different entities to achieve customer satisfaction by aligning the work and centralizing the access. Smart Service Centers: A service provided by the government to provide services via smarter and technological means, this in return guarantees a more efficient experience to a wider range of customers/users. Outsourced Service Centers: A partnership between both the public sector and the private sector to provide services for customers. Our Role at Q-Pros As a leading testing service provider and pioneer in the world of QA (Quality Assurance), we align our criteria and standards to guarantee our clients (Governmental and private) a 7-star rating. We have worked and achieved such status with our clients in the UAE for years, and we plan to grow even bigger with our clients. Quality Assurance and Software testing are key factors for both governmental and private entities' success, ensuring bug-free and defect-free software is essential for standard quality. Setting out to guarantee "World class services" the Global Star Rating system hopes to continue elevating the standard for customer experience on a global scale. The regressive effort by the UAE government is paving the way for a more global movement to scale up customer services. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/ ...