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12May

QA Fundamentals: Introducing Test Cases

Q-Pros prides itself in adopting top-level methodologies and test cases essential for the QA process. We make sure we recruit specialized quality engineers who can utilize their skills to improve software performance. In this article, we will investigate the specifics involving test cases. The definition, and why are they essential to QA (Quality Assurance). What are Test Cases? In simple terms, a test case is implementing a scenario to measure aspects of the functionality and non-functionality of a specific software while applying a set of actions. This is done by actioning certain features of an application under specific conditions to ensure the desired result. A test case differs from test scripts, as test scripts are programs intended to test for certain codes responsible for certain aspects of functionality. Test cases involve a set of actions to be completed per the actual order of functionality planned for the application. So, it is safe to say that test cases are more inclusive than test scripts. The outcome of each test case step is intended to produce a pass or fail status, depending on the criteria being followed. One could measure an application’s security by establishing a test case where the elements being actioned are aligned with a security measure, like verifying that password or account authentication works well. Components of Test Cases: Test case ID: any test case should have a distinct ID; this will help organizations keep track of the progress and reference scenarios accordingly. Test description: A description of the unit being tested and for what. Pre-Conditions: What should be implemented before conducting the test case. For example, having an account is a condition to measure security. Test Data: this includes the data being used to verify, input, and output data. List of steps to action: This includes a step-by-step representation of the order of actions needed to guarantee the implementation of the test. The Expected Result & Actual Result: After all actions and conditions are applied accordingly, an expected result should already be in mind (i.e., the desired outcome of the scenario). The expected result is then compared with the actual result, and from that, we assess whether it is a pass or a fail. Importance of Having Test Cases Any client must know the potential of their product, and how specific they can get while using it and it still delivers expected results. Nowadays, developers are planning test cases ahead of time to keep their clients up to date with what to expect. By providing and planning test case scenarios, clients can pitch in and provide feedback on the test cases and get involved in the testing process. Test cases allow for more transparency and build trust between all parties involved. It strengthens the DevOps cycle by asserting firsthand cooperation between developers and testing experts. It opens the door for more innovation, as more test cases are implemented, the potential of the application is stretched even further to make sure it includes more aspects of use. With our expert team of QA testers, you can be sure every corner of your application is covered with top-level test cases. Know more about our list of services. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/...

12May

End-to-End Testing Services for Quality Assurance

by q-pros

in software testing

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End-to-End Testing, a comprehensive approach aimed at evaluating software systems' ability to fulfill all required services from initiation to crucial closing phases, stands out among various testing methodologies that focus on specific functional and non-functional attributes. Within this article, we will explore how Q-Pros employs End-to-End Testing to ensure compliance with QA standards. What is End-to-End Testing? End-to-end testing is a testing approach used to confirm that application software works or behaves as expected from start to finish. The primary purpose is to ensure the software has all integrated components working well. E2E activities include examining the system under real-life scenarios to see how it behaves under intended use. E2E is also one way to identify the system’s dependencies and validate data integrity for users. Importance of End-to-End Testing Most software systems consist of multiple sub-systems that correlate with each other, and the success of the entire system depends on all those systems working well. A way to check for that correlation is by E2E tests, and by doing so, we can avoid system crashes. E2E tests work like any other testing approach. It requires test cases and test reports. The objective is to look for bugs and defects and identify potential bottlenecks that the systems could be facing during use. Types of End-to-End Testing The following are two types of methods for E2E tests that are commonly used: Horizontal E2E testing This type of E2E involves testing the system on a horizontal scope, which means looking at the basic functions used in an application. This comes closer to the actual journey of the user without diving deep into specific expert knowledge. Take for example creating an account and deleting an account. Vertical E2E testing This form of E2E is a bit more for the complex areas of the systems, meaning we are now diving deep into aspects beyond the simple user interface. Take for example testing each component of the system separately and paying attention to data through the UI, API, and database layers. Automated vs. Manual End-to-End Testing E2E tests can be performed manually for the most part, a testing expert would simply follow the normal flow of the application use it as intended, and record any occurrence of defects or bugs. However, software testing services are involved in frequently testing more complex software systems that include an API and database where there could be no concern to the UI for the tester. In that case, we rely on automated methods to conduct a thorough analysis of the system by calling multiple complex orders via automation software. Tools for Automated End-to-End Testing · Selenium Webdriverjs · BugBug · Mabl · testRigor · Autify /*! elementor - v3.20.0 - 26-03-2024 */.elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px} Benefits of End-to-End Testing Services Enhanced User Experience: E2E testing identifies issues that hinder a user's flow, leading to a more intuitive and enjoyable experience. Improved Software Quality: By uncovering bugs and defects across integrated systems, E2E testing fosters a more robust and reliable software product. Early Defect Detection: E2E testing is often conducted later in the development lifecycle, allowing for the detection of critical issues before they become expensive to fix. Reduced Development Costs: Early detection and rectification of defects translate to cost savings in the long run. Increased Confidence: E2E testing instills confidence in developers and stakeholders that the software functions as intended. Key Considerations for End-to-End Testing Services Test Case Design: Developing comprehensive test cases that cover various user journeys and potential user interactions is crucial. Tool Selection: Choosing the right E2E testing tools depends on the project's specific needs and functionalities. Popular tools include Selenium, Cypress.io, and Katalon Studio. Environment Management: Setting up and maintaining dedicated testing environments that mirror the production environment is essential for accurate results. Integration Testing: Ensuring seamless integration with external systems like payment gateways or databases is vital for a holistic E2E testing experience. Reporting and Tracking: Clear and concise reporting of test results, along with efficient bug tracking procedures, allows for effective communication and issue resolution. Choosing the Right End-to-end testing Service Provider Several factors come into play when selecting an End-to-end testing service provider: Expertise: Look for a provider with a proven track record and a team of experienced QA professionals skilled in E2E testing methodologies. Testing Tools: Ensure the provider possesses the expertise and tools necessary for your specific project requirements. Communication and Collaboration: Clear and consistent communication between the provider's team and your development team is essential for a smooth testing process. Scalability: Consider the provider's ability to scale its services to accommodate your project's evolving needs. Conclusion End-to-end testing can help developers scale up the quality of their applications by guaranteeing that the system is bug-free throughout its entire course. End-to-end testing is a testing method used to validate application software performance and behavior as expected from start to finish. E2E testing can be both automated and manual depending on the complexity of the components we are testing. Q-Pros is a leading testing provider with years of experience that testifies to that. We believe that End-to-End testing is vital for QA purposes. While establishing our testing planes and phases, we make sure to include E2E as an essential stage for QA. If you would like to know more about us and our testing approaches, read more. Check out our online request service to get your own testing plan organized to your demand. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/...

16Feb

What is Exploratory Testing?

by q-pros

in Types of Testing

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Software testing consists of numerous practices and approaches that help secure overall accurate results through all stages of the testing phase. Most of these approaches are implemented by following certain steps based on pre-planned test cases and assessing the actual results against what is expected. These widely used scripted methods of testing have shown success in including as many scenarios as possible and fully scanning service channels from all angles of usability. But another method relied on heavily and remains valid today follows a more personalized means that would not necessarily abide by scripts. This testing method used to be known widely as Ad-hoc testing. But now it has come to be known most as “Exploratory Testing.” In this article, we will look to define this creative software testing approach and highlight its present importance. We will also look at how exploratory testing works and when to use it. What is Exploratory Testing? Exploratory testing is an approach in which the testing process concatenates both test design and test execution to strengthen simultaneous learning and creative thinking. The difference between scripted testing and exploratory testing is that while scripted testing relies on test designs and requires little to no thinking process, exploratory testing - hence its name – requires exploring and investigating. One major distinction is that this testing is free of automation alternatives, unlike other methods that can substitute human labor with AI-powered systems and tools to implement specific steps that are decided and agreed upon based on design. Why is Exploratory Testing Important? Commonly used methods rely heavily on a documentation process that helps implement a structured manner of testing. These documents and specifications may not always be available, and testing experts would have to rely on logic-based investigations to track bugs firsthand through direct usage, therefore relying on an exploratory testing approach. One other factor that makes this testing important is that it naturally detects more bugs because it involves personalized actions that emphasize a better understanding of the system being used. This testing approach is set out through a journey of realistic usage as expected by users and encourages intuition. Another value to exploratory testing is highlighted by increasing creativity and generating innovative ideas as the work progresses. Alongside other tactical methods, exploratory testing can be mixed with the overall testing project to guarantee excellent results, which serve in the end to increase productivity and quality altogether. How to Execute Exploratory Tests? Here is a detailed description of the steps in which exploratory testing can be executed: A) Creating Bug Classification This step involves three main actions. One is to identify the most common types of bugs based on previous projects, the second is to analyze the causes and the third is to define the risks and produce ideas. B) Creating a Test Charter Test charters include what to test and how to test it - By doing so we have established the starting point of the testing journey based on how the end-user is expected to use the application. C) Review Results Evaluate your results and take notes for future tests. D) Debrief Here we compare what the output is with the test charter and assess whether further tests are needed. In Conclusion Exploratory testing is a distinct approach that is used for multiple purposes that either seem logical and intrinsic or when we want to go that extra mile to ensure better results to serve our users. Therefore, we believe that it will always remain valid for a long time. We at Q-Pros value exploratory testing skills and make sure to prepare ourselves with a team of skillful testers who can rely on diverse and creative testing methods to ensure quality and fulfill requirements. Q-Pros is a leading IT company that provides testing services for clients on a global scale with experience in multiple domains and service types. Learn more about us and request your own unique testing service via our online form. FAQs Are there any disadvantages to using Exploratory Testing? Though exploratory testing comes with so many benefits, it is bound to have some negative points to it. Here are some of the disadvantages and challenges of Exploratory testing: Exploratory methods strictly depend on skillful testers. Testers would have to be thoroughly knowledgeable about the application being tested. Reporting the outputs of executed tests can be a challenge when there is a documented basis to begin with. It is not suitable for long execution periods. When to use Exploratory testing? When the project demands early rehearsals or when a new tester has joined a project that is already in full action. It can also come in handy when dealing with critical applications (An application that demands continuous usage, and in the unfortunate case of crashing or downtime would result in severe consequences). ...

14Feb

Regression Testing: A Modern Necessity

by q-pros

in Types of Testing

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To fully utilize software potential in today's market, you need a solid strategy to make it compatible with change. A satisfactory level of adaptability requires constant development on every level of an application structure. This activity will involve tweaking the internal code of the software to enhance its function, a task that will give birth to new bugs and defects, some of which may erupt in different sections than the ones required for the update. This is where Regression Testing is an absolute must for ensuring quality. In this article, we will look at different approaches to conducting Regression testing, and how we at Q-Pros have established a top-notch methodology to ensure our client's applications are fully adaptable to change. What is “Regression Testing”? Regression testing is a type of software testing conducted to verify that an application remains working with the desired level of quality after any code changes or updates/optimizations. It involves a full examination of the application's functionality in addition to making sure that the newly added features are working per demand and no other bugs are introduced due to updates. The Importance of Regression Testing: Enhancing your software application to be on top of new functional standards and adopt new security measures is essential. This regularly guarantees your software success in today’s technological environment. At any stage of development, modifications are bound to cause defects within the application in all sections. This testing technique will help developers identify and verify the impact caused by modification. Types of Regression Testing: Complete Regression Testing As modifications are implanted to a software's code, a complete Regression test is conducted to include all assets of an application to be tested completely from all aspects. This method relies heavily on automated testing techniques because it involves a time-consuming cycle, meaning that every time a change occurs to the code, we must test all other levels including the one being changed. Partial Regression Testing It is where we test the parts most likely to be affected by the change, but it could also involve testing parts that are emphasized by business demand and commonality. It is most efficient when the developing team has verified meta-data and valid information from earlier tests. It might not be the most effective, because it could overlook some areas within the software that might have not been detected properly, or when test scenarios are not being documented and archived by the testing team. Challenges of Regression Testing Regression Testing is essential for companies looking to keep track of constant updates. It could elevate an application's use and guarantee that the software is of the desired quality in all stages of re-development. Having a solid methodology to conduct this testing means knowing and adapting to the challenges one might face while testing. Here are some of the challenges: Regression Testing could be expensive: Testing regularly and constantly could be costly, especially when testing things that have already been tested many times during the pre-production stages. Complete Regression testing is time-consuming: Using complete Regression testing techniques could be exhausting for testers. Going back and implementing a full testing suite every time a modification occurs will be time-consuming for sure. As with most testing approaches, It comes with some setbacks and blockers. Our role at Q-Pros is to overcome those negative points and guarantee that we utilize all testing approaches needed for an application to meet quality standards and achieve client satisfaction. Our team of experts works rigorously using automated tools to overcome time consumption and assure accurate results. Q-pros is a leading Quality Assurance provider with affordable price rates. Learn more about Q-Pros and request a custom service through our online form Conclusion In short, Regression Testing is an indispensable ingredient in the process of Quality Assurance. Making sure that an application is not affected by changes to the internal structure due to modification purposes is necessary. There is more than one way to approach Regression Testing. We could either specify testing sections or include all aspects of an application. This Testing certainly comes with challenges and could be complex, but with good strategy and experience, an application could maintain top quality and avoid unexpected bugs or defects in all future updates. ...

09Feb

QA Roles: Business Analyst. What They do and How it Relates to QA

by q-pros

in QA Roles

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Quality assurance projects consist of many roles and responsibilities. Some of these roles seem similar in scope as they would relate to the testing practice firsthand. One role though that is essential and requires less technical skills is that of a Business Analyst (BA). Q-Pros offers and relies on multiple jobs and various professions to guarantee accurate results and suitable outcomes for distinct software products, from QA Engineers in both manual and automation experiences to Business Analysts, Quality Directors, Data Scientists, and much more. This article will take a deeper look at the role of the Business Analyst and how they fit into the entire scheme of quality assurance. Let us start by defining BAs and what their prime objectives are. What is a Business Analyst? A business analyst is a person in charge of providing analytical data and various documents to facilitate the work of IT experts in alliance with business requirements and market research. BAs are responsible for interpreting business processes to operational figures. The role is distinctive in the initial stages, where defining the business requirements is necessary for IT and testing experts to start strategizing based on gathered comprehensive data. What are the roles and responsibilities of QA Business Analysts? (What Business Analysts do) Business analysts do not need to have a strong technical background. However, in QA domains, BAs need to understand how the system or product at hand functions and what are its key aspects of service ability as expected. The roles of business analysts vary to cover multiple phases but shine most in the initial phases of launching a project and agreeing on methodology and service. Here are some of BA responsibilities and daily tasks: Engage with project stakeholders to gather product information. And cooperate with all primary business members and team members. Provide professionally written documents and clear reports to all involved team members and business owners to facilitate the working progress. Identify fundamental issues and investigate areas of improvement based on market standards and enhancements. Conduct presentations to all involved members (SDLC/STLC contributors) to help implement QA plans and testing methods. Identifying budgets, deadlines, and primary requirements for testing plans. Validate end results from executed plans and confirm fulfillment of requirements Supervise the implantation process to keep every involved member on the same page. How to become a QA Business Analyst: Acquiring a degree in business-related majors can be a way to get yourself a job as a BA. But to specifically get a job in QA, you would need to work your way up through QA jobs. QA engineers usually become business analysts as they get more experienced with the entire QA process through the years. Having an IT background mixed with technical experience is a plus. This path usually leads to upper-level jobs in QA as it scans every area of work. So, with some years of experience and proven effort, anyone can be a business analyst in QA, whether they have a degree in business or not, as most companies favor experience over specific academic certifications. One way to start is to obtain a software testing certificate from a recognized institution. This will aid you significantly in getting a QA job and boost your career scores. Learn more about software QA certifications that help you get a job in the field. The BA’s Role in Testing Business analysts must always be at the top of their game to answer questions and provide counseling for team members at every production phase. Here is how BAs relate to some testing activities: User Acceptance Testing (UAT) – business analysts are required to be present during UAT sessions to verify that the system has fully met requirements through end-users’ usage. Regression Testing – BAs can select regression test cases that confirm successful outcomes based on expectations. UX Testing – BAs have the responsibility to look for ways to improve user experience and expand the testing process based on that factor. Functional Testing – Since business analysts have all the information and specifications regarding functionality, they must remain available for advice and supervision during functional tests. In Conclusion Business analysts are inseparable from QA projects. They have the major responsibility to certify the success of the project and keep clients and business owners aligned with the working progress. They are the face of the project, and they make sure that everything is clear for all involved parties. Having tech experience is a major factor in becoming a business analyst. Most companies value individuals who have both business-related university degrees and dense experience. BAs work with testers and developers to keep the work on track, clear out any misconceptions and answer questions regularly. As a leading and pioneering testing service provider, we at Q-Pros make sure to utilize only skilled Individual's in the QA field from all aspects and domains. Our BAs employ modern methods and ensure a healthy flow of analyzed data and comprehensive information through the entire scheme of quality assurance. Request a service through our online form and learn more about us. ...

07Feb

7 Best Functional Testing Tools to Use in 2023

by q-pros

in software testing

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Functional testing is a way to verify that software applications are providing expected outputs as required by the end-user or business. Functional tests are concerned with evaluating and comparing software functions with business requirements and quality standards. We at Q-Pros rely on a heavy arsenal of testing tools and modern utilities that help our teams achieve guaranteed and accurate results. In this article, we will look at the most renowned functional testing tools and why you should be using them in 2023 to achieve higher status in the testing world. Overview Let us start by looking at the criteria of which we will be relying on to consider a functional testing tools in our top 7 list. Usability–It is important for testing providers to make sure that the testing tools used can be used by team members with multiple levels of experience, and by more than one section or department within diverse teams. Integrations – In order to maximize a testing tool’s potential, it needs to be able to integrate with a wide range of software and coding languages. A good testing tool will make use of common frameworks to facilitate the work. User Interface – The perfect testing tool to choose needs to be well designed with a smart, easy to use interface. And so, based on our assessment framework, here is a list of 7 functional testing tools to use in 2023: 1. Selenium Selenium is one of the best test automation tools available for QA engineers and developers. It offers its users several libraries and tools that allow for efficient browser testing. One of Selenium’s top benefits is that it allows users to design test cases based on functional specifications with ease by offering options to change and control HTML elements to their exact needs. Its latest version (Selenium 4) supports several programming languages, offering simple implementations with JavaScript, C#, Ruby, Python, and Java. It is also worth mentioning that Selenium is an open-source tool that is free to use! 2. SmartBear Ready API SmartBear ReadyAPI is a functional tool designed for API testing, and it goes well with Agile and DevOps methodologies. It offers functional testing, API Performance testing, and API web Virtualization. ReadyAPI also provides automation options at every building stage through CI/CD pipelines. It offers you the ability to build data-driven functional API tests. The tool also integrates with any testing environment that uses Smart Assertion features. ReadyAPI provides integration with platforms such as Jenkins, Docker, and Git. 3. TestRigor TestRigor stands out as an excellent functional testing tool as it allows its users to build automated tests in plain English from a human point of view. It also converts manual tests into AI-based automated tests. TestRigor analyzes all potential factors behind the scenes to use the most effective ones, which outcomes ultra-reliable tests for testing teams. TestRigor is a great tool to build and customize new tests, and it allows the testing team to focus on test building rather than maintenance. 4. TestComplete TestComplete is a GUI functional testing tool that provides adaptable testing solutions. It works with multiple languages such as JavaScript, Python, and VBScript. What makes TestComplete more efficient is that it allows you to record your test runs and go back to them after implantation and adjust them based on initial outcomes. The tool also provides you with the capability to map objects from the screen and display objects, therefore allowing you to monitor any object in addition to providing you with all possible Xpaths for that specific object. 5. SoapUI SoapUI is an open-source functional testing tool that supports requirements-based testing and API solutions. The tool is renowned for its flexible interface as it allows your team to easily navigate through it with basic technical experience. SoapUI offers an endpoint explorer feature that lets you select a certain desired method and save the REST endpoints of URL requests - (URL requests can be made in both JSON and XML formats) 6. Kobiton Specifically created for mobile app testing, Kobiton allows you to perform manual and automated functional testing, performance testing, and visual testing for Android and IOS devices. It also offers a parallel text execution option to combine tests from multiple devices operating systems and platforms. It gives you the ability to implement a full device lab involving local and cloud devices (both public and private clouds) Kobiton allows you to perform automated tests without any knowledge script-wise. It also offers the ability to convert manual tests into complex automated tests. 7. Testim Testim is an automated testing tool that provides AI-based test implementations. The platform relies on AI to verify and lock visual elements, increasing testing stability for UI functional testing. Testim visual editor allows you to record and edit tests to efficiently organize test cases, as well as giving you the ability to keep test steps in parameters, streamlining the testing process for all testing contributors. The tool also helps you to replace duplicated tests with shared objects. And there you have it, 7 of the best functional tools to use in QA in 2023. Q-Pros Q-Pros is a leading IT company and a testing services provider, and we rely on market-leading partners and vendors to guarantee accurate results for our clients in every domain and industry. Such vendors include Smart Bear, Microsoft, Oracle, Tricentis, and much more. Our teams make use of various tools and utilities that are chosen uniquely for each client depending on business requirements and project technical specifications. Request a unique testing service through our online testing form. ...

29Dec

User Acceptance Testing: A Simple – but complete – Guide

by q-pros

in QA Tips

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If you happen to work in software QA or development, you might have certainly heard the term “User Acceptance Testing sessions” multiple times nearing the end of any project. This step in QA is one of the most essential practices to give confidence to operational teams and business owners and confirm product release. We believe that software testing can only be sealed through real-life usage tests. This activity is labeled in the software testing stages as User Acceptance Testing (UAT). Q-Pros have invested lots of effort into crafting an excellent methodology to conduct healthy UAT sessions and make sure that the software is more than ready to handle end-users. This article hopes to be a clear guide to UAT and how to perform an effective user acceptance session. To start, let us define UAT - What is User Acceptance Testing (UAT)? User Acceptance Testing is the final seal of approval required before releasing an application out to the public. By definition – hence its name- UAT's objective is to get user acceptance by testing all aspects of the application, making sure it is fit for business demands. UAT sessions are done to measure the level of satisfaction a user has while using the application in real-time under real scenarios. It involves mimicking how an application might be used by future users/customers. User Acceptance Testing is the final stage of testing to make use of all the application's potential to confirm that it is ready to be released. How we perform UAT UAT sessions are conducted by a group of first-hand users, this group of users could consist of customers who are more likely to use the product or the client that this software is directed to (if the software is manufactured specifically for an organization). When conducting a UAT session, all parties involved document their feedback, preferably in the presence of the developing team and beta testers in charge of ensuring quality standards. The role of the QA teams in UAT sessions The QA team has major involvement in the User Acceptance Testing. The QA team must be ready to assist users on how to use the application and oversee taking notes, including on several issues that might not be visible to the users, meaning things that are of QA concern rather than simple functionality. The QA team will then take part in presenting the results to clients, and it is the clients' job to decide whether the results are in alliance with expectations. The key objectives of UAT To make certain the software is performing based on basic business requirements. To confirm Ease-of-use. We need to make sure that the system is usable by end-users. Make sure the application is aligned with legal measures. At the end of UAT, a report is drafted, this report includes valuable results. Then, meetings are arranged to determine whether the application is ready for release or not based on UAT deliverables. Agile and DevOps methods in UAT UAT sessions require an elevated level of cooperation between multiple levels of involvement, including end-users. To plan a solid UAT session, team management methodology plays a huge role. The DevOps approach emphasizes a steady relationship between both developers and operational managers. This coexistence is made feasible using the agile methodology of project management. Agile is heavily adopted in QA techniques in general as it has been proved to save time and maintain structure. As mentioned before, UAT sessions involve multiple parties, from developers, the QA team, and end-users. At the end of every UAT, feedback is collected and worked upon, and then when needed, other UAT sessions will be conducted. UAT (Alpha/Beta Testing) UAT is split into two classifications (Alpha & Beta) depending on the nature of the output being tested. Alpha testing involves testing the application in the development environment. Beta testing is carried out in the production phase when the application is ready for release. Summary User Acceptance is all-important for Quality Assurance. Understanding how your software works in a real-life environment before releasing it to one is an obvious step. Involving end-users will guarantee honesty and generate honest feedback. UAT is most beneficial when each step is documented and studied thoroughly. Based on the data generated, the developers, QA team, and clients can choose to make changes to enhance all aspects of the application based on the desired quality and business requirements. To learn more about quality assurance practices and frameworks, learn more about us and request one of our many testing services that are crafted based on requirements, business demands and standards. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/ ...

27Dec

A Short Guide to Stability Testing

by q-pros

in software testing

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A thriving business deserves a thriving software, and we at Q-Pros believe that software testing is the key to scale up businesses and create better results for both business owners and customers/users alike. One way software testing can help extend the functionality of an application is through Stability testing. In this article, we will define what stability testing is and its many benefits. What is Stability Testing? Stability testing is a type of non-functional software testing that helps measure an application’s ability to function continuously over lengthy periods. The primary purpose of conducting stability tests is to ensure the software component does not collapse under a wide range of use over time. One way to test the efficiency of the application is to run a stability test and ensure that the application is running well under circumstances beyond the average use. The intent here is to pressure the system to check its capabilities. Why Do We Need Stability Tests? In general, software testing helps us understand how the application will run under real-life situations, and we can find out what the limitations are, and how we can avoid future bottle-neck situations. Stability tests give us the confidence to trust the system while knowing that it will maintain function even when used to the maximum. Few issues are common in newly developed applications and mostly for justified reasons that are beyond the developer’s capabilities. Stability tests serve as an identifier of such issues and make us aware of the updates and fixes we can use to overcome them. Some issues regarding performance will erupt due to heavy usage. These issues include a sudden or repetitive request on the application or having a massive amount of data being entered at once. Stability Tests Outcomes As is the case with other testing approaches, stability testing requires a lot of reporting and building for test cases. We must document a list of results and stats that include the following: Hits per second – The number of demands or hits users would request; This gives us an understanding of the load percentage over the system. Throughput – Throughput is measured in bytes. It is the amount of data that a user would receive over a fixed amount of time. Memory – This is simply to document memory usage while conducting the test. Transaction Response Times – The time it takes for the system to complete a request/response cycle as declared by the application. Response time is important to measure in general, and in stability tests, we make sure that it has the same value while the system is running under stress. CPU – CPU utilization spent while performing the test. Stability Tests Process Test planning: We start by defining a solid testing strategy, making sure to mention the objectives and milestones. Test case designs: We then create solid test cases and scenarios that can efficiently assess stability parameters. Test case review: Making sure that our test cases are validated against project requirements and technical specifications. Test execution: Perform the tests. Report results: Documenting all outcomes from executed tests to share with operational stakeholders. Tools Used for Stability Tests Several performance testing tools are suitable to test for stability. The most predominant tools used now are: LoadRunner CloudTest Apache JMeter LoadUI WebLOAD In Conclusion It is certainly the goal of any application provider or business owner to have their applications scale up and be used by as many users as possible. Stability testing is a great way to scale up software. By doing a stability test we can guarantee that an application is more than ready to face future challenges. Stability testing is part of other performance testing approaches that evaluate the system’s performance attributes and help us understand how a system would behave under fixed environments. Learn more about software testing and get to know more about us. If you want to request a testing service, check out our list of offers and request a customized testing plan for your software via our request form. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/ ...

22Dec

Top 5 Software Quality Assurance Certifications

by q-pros

in News & Topics

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The field of software testing is becoming increasingly competitive every day, if you are planning to work in software QA or even if you are already working, you might want to consider getting hold of a software testing certificate. Q-Pros believes that the quality of an institution depends on the quality of its employees. That is why we pride ourselves with testing experts who are equipped with QA and software testing certifications from prestigious institutes. In this article, we will look at the top 5 software quality assurance certifications based on popularity and demand. What is a Quality Assurance Certification? A software quality assurance certification is an acknowledgment from a licensed institution to professionals in the field of software testing and QA that they have acquired and updated their set of skills in their domain. QA certifications include tests upon completion that assess and recognize members while adding to their basic knowledge. Why Are Quality Assurance Certifications Important? Acquiring QA certifications not only adds value to your resume, but it also elevates the level of quality of the entire industry. QA certifications help keep companies aligned with the latest updates in the field, delivering better quality to clients and upping the level of quality in services overall. Most QA companies encourage and sometimes demand obtaining QA certifications to assist in profiling candidates to their respected projects based on their area of expertise. It has become essential over the years for job seekers looking to obtain a position in quality assurance to be certified by a renowned organization that specializes in quality assurance and software testing training. What are the Top Software Testing Quality Assurance Certifications? There are many sources to obtain a QA certificate, they vary from one country to another and based on the standardized demands of each region. Nonetheless, having a certificate will always be a plus and would support your claim in achieving higher positions. Here are the top 5 Quality Assurance Certificates: International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) One of, if not the most prominent certifications to obtain in the field is an ISTQB certification. This board certificate is accepted internationally and is granted anywhere in the world with a universal syllabus. It is applicable on three levels, foundational, advanced, and expert. ISTQB laid the foundation and set the standards for software testers. The training program includes a heavy load of information that cover all aspects of the industry. On the foundation level, candidates would be suggested to have not less than (6) months of practical experience but with no prerequisites. The advanced level would require a foundation level certificate and practical experience while the expert level would require an advanced certification and more extensive experience, which could suggest more than (6) years of practical knowledge. Certified Test Engineer (CSTE) A CSTE certification sets the foundations and standard requirements for software quality assurance qualifications. It includes components in the basic level of IT and Quality Control (QC). CSTE brings about good career opportunities. It targets people looking to get started in business and improve their resumes. To apply for a CSTE, you must have one of the following prerequisites alongside a minimum of more than (18) months of experience: 4-year degree from a recognized college + 2 years of experience 3-year degree from a recognized college + 3 years of experience 2-year degree from a recognized college + 4 years of experience (6) years of experience in the field Certified Software Quality Analyst (CSQA) This certificate targets people who are more advanced than CSTE, it takes a deeper dive into Quality Control and Quality Assurance. Obtaining a CSQA certificate is conditioned to the same prerequisites as CSTE: 4-year degree from a recognized college + 2 years of experience 3-year degree from a recognized college + 3 years of experience 2-year degree from a recognized college + 4 years of experience (6) years of experience in the field And such as CSTE, CSQA requires prior experience of (18) months before applying. Certified Associate in Software Testing (CAST) This certification requires no prior work experience as a prerequisite. CAST is perfect for beginners looking to take the first step on the technical side of QA and software testing. It gives candidates the chance to learn more about the foundational level of QA and QC and teaches applicants about the basic techniques used in the process. To qualify for a CAST certificate, applicants must have one of the following: 3 or 4-year degrees from are cognized college 2-year degree from are cognized college and 1+ year of experience 3 years in the field Certified Manager of Software Quality (CMSQ) This certificate is concerned with highly professional applicants who are knowledgeable of all the skills and talents of software testing and QA. CMSQ applicants are proficient managers who are able to lead QA teams and plan testing strategies. Out of all the certifications on this list, CMSQ has the most challenging conditions for applying: Candidates MUST have: CSQA Certification Currently working in the field Take a manager’s level test Candidates must also have one of the 3 prerequisites BA from an accredited college with 4 years of experience in the QA field Associate degree with 6 years of experience 8+years of experience What does a software QA manager do? QA managers play a vital role in securing quality for clients. They organize and strategize QA plans and frameworks that utilize the most out of the QA team. They also produce quality control procedures and practices that improve profitability for business owners. To learn more about Quality Assurance, learn more about us, and request a service via our online test request form. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/ ...

15Dec

5 Ways AI is Solving Software Quality Challenges

by q-pros

in software testing

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Over the past recent years, software testing approaches became more complex to keep up with the constant advancements in software development practices and with the nature of digital services in general. As is the case in all industries, AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) are shaping up new ways to speed up the production process and assure more accurate results. So is the case with software testing. AI solutions can not only scale up the level of productivity in all aspects but also solve issues that seemed inherent and unavoidable. In this article, we will discuss 5 ways in which Leveraging AI can solve software quality challenges, and how we at Q-Pros look to adapt such practices to further enhance our services in the world of QA. #1 Data Management Challenges Data gathering and documentation are at the core of any QA process. How well we manage our data decides the level of quality we seek to achieve. One problem testing engineers have struggled with over the years was data management. The amount of data being generated from the software development phase can be enormous. This amount of data can be so huge, that it can be impossible for human brains to fathom. This data includes: Values and parameters Environment data Build Data Data production and data coverage Giving this type of data a proper and accurate analysis can only be done by leveraging AI utilities. Relying on smart AI methods can secure better results in all software development phases, specially in the testing stages. It is likely that humans might fall to errors and get overworked while trying to comprehend enormous amounts of data. One crucial factor in assuring top quality is to collect data from end-users, and by doing so, it helps the dev team decide on what should be tested based on data gatherings and test configuration and combination. Test configuration can amount to millions of potential scenarios, and data-driven tests are essential to the testing process only running this data through smart analysis allows the testing teams to narrow down the number to prioritize the most valuable tests. #2 Challenges Regarding Time Organizations are constantly looking for ways to drive the Dev-Ops process even faster, and relying on smarter methods can further drive the cycle even faster and ensure better quality at the same time. While Agile methods can result in more organized and accurate outcomes, they can also take a heavy toll on the dev team. We must produce test configurations and test, and then the dev team must make the changes and wait for another testing cycle or sprint to ensure that no further changes are needed regarding the scenario at hand. Speeding this process and ensuring the same if not better quality of results can only be done via smarter AI solutions. By analyzing quality trends and assessing code-changing risks, developers can then plan for better more efficient sprints. #3 Keeping up with mobile and app advancements With the current state of exponential growth of mobile devices and mobile application services, it is getting more and more complicated for developers and testers to keep up. Most Mobile Operating Systems (OS) come with an SDK (Source Development tools) which are used to create native programming languages that are suited for each OS and each device. This accounts for many combinations which are still unstable as things are changing fast. Leveraging AI in the testing process can simplify things and assure the inclusion of all modern updates. #4 Integration Testing Within the Agile structure, QA has become a bottleneck or a speedbump. This is because while it is an essential step, there is little that can be done when it comes to constant updates and changes, we need to constantly test with each change! And while software development is shifting more to the front-end, testing on the front-end could be fragile. That is why we need to make the most of the AI to run more integration tests. #5 Continuous Monitoring Existing new possibilities lay ahead in the world of software development, and it is only fair to extend the same level of advancements to the world of testing services. In future years, we will begin to see automated functions running in the background always analyzing every level of code. The Use of AI can help establish the foundation for such continuous progress as it is difficult for human labor to keep track of every degree of development. Cognitive Automation As mentioned, one challenge facing software testing is our need for continuous testing. Doing so allows us to confirm expected behaviors and check for any changes or anomalies. This task is better done through AI, and we could allow automated tools to adjust and customize themselves to perform this process. QA engineers must harness the benefit of AI and make use of every viable way to automate the testing process, this allows for more time for creative thinking and planning for more tests and areas to serve the overall project. The need for human intervention in software testing will always remain, the key is to adapt and collaborate with automated means, and not to eliminate one on account of the other. For as long as the software is designed to be eventually used by humans, the need for human testers will only grow more as applications are getting bigger in scales of usability. AI Testing and Shifting Left In recent years, and with the emergence of such work models like agile and DevOps, testers started shifting left, which means testing is now becoming more present in the initial stages of development. The role of AI in shifting left is that it asserts cooperation values and by doing so allows the development teams to co-exist and align better with the testing team. One way to deliver better quality to the product is to involve the testing team in more stages, such as early planning and sprint execution. Q-Pros Q-Pros is a leading IT company that provides testing services at all levels, we at Q-Pros rely on manual and automated testing methods and tools to assure the best quality for our clients. We plan and strategies testing plans custom-made and crafted for our unique clients. The role of AI is eminent, we strive to lead the way in innovation and creative testing. Read more on how we plan to leverage AI in software testing. In Conclusion Software testing involves a set of unavoidable challenges. It comes down to either working hard or working smart; while we intend to do both, it is of extreme importance to remain on top of modern advancements. Establishing good foundations with AI and ML tools is a huge asset for software quality. Automation allows us to analyze data in real time. Through AI we gain more information from data builds, code changes, and test history, narrowing down thousands of possible configurations. By empowering the testing team through Automated tools, we receive better and quicker results. https://q-pros.com/online-test-request/ ...