What Is Software Testing Technique?
Introduction
Software testing is a process of checking and verifying the quality of software. It is used to find errors, defects, and mistakes in the program code. The main aim of software testing is to ensure that the software works as per the requirement and does not contain any errors. Software testing can be done manually or with the help of automated tools.
There are different software testing techniques, each having a different purpose. Some techniques are used to test the functionality of an application, while others can be used to detect potential problems.
Types Of Software Testing Techniques
Having a detailed understanding of software testing techniques can help in achieving effective results. It can ensure that the software is free from any defects. The types of software testing techniques include:
Static Testing Technique
This technique is used to check the code without executing it. It includes reviews, inspections, walkthroughs, and desk-checking activities. Static testing is used to detect code errors that can cause the software’s unexpected behaviour.
The major advantages of static testing are that it is cost-effective, does not require special skills, and can be done at any stage of the software development process. However, this technique also has certain drawbacks, such as it being time-consuming and it cannot detect any logic or functional errors.
Static testing techniques can be classified into five categories. They are:
Informal Reviews
This technique involves reading the source code manually to check for any errors. Informal reviews are not documented and do not follow any fixed process.
Walkthroughs
This technique involves presenting the source code to a group of people for validation. It involves making changes in the code, if necessary and then presenting it to the group for further validation.
Inspections
This technique is more formal than walkthroughs and involves a detailed review of the code. It is conducted by a team of experts and involves making changes in the code if necessary.
Peer Reviews
This technique involves reviewing the source code by another person. It is done to ensure that the code is free from any errors and follows coding standards.
Audits
This technique involves making sure that the code follows certain standards. It is generally done by external auditors who are experts in their field.
Dynamic Testing Technique
This technique is used to check the functionality of an application. It involves executing the program and observing its behaviour. This technique can detect errors in the logic and design of the code. The advantages of dynamic testing are that it is fast. However, this technique is expensive and time-consuming.
Dynamic testing techniques can be classified into three categories. They are:
Structure-Based Testing
This technique is used to test the internal structure of the code. It involves testing the application against its input and output values.
Experience-Based Testing
This technique tests the application based on the tester’s experience. It involves testing the application by exploring its functionality and checking for any unexpected behaviour.
Specification-based Techniques
This technique is used to test the application against its specifications. It involves testing the application against its predefined requirements.
Other Software Testing Techniques
In addition to the above-mentioned software testing techniques, there are other techniques that can be used. Some of them are:
Equivalence Partitioning
This technique is used to divide the input data into equivalent classes and test the application with each class. It helps in reducing the number of test cases.
Boundary Value Analysis
This technique is used to test the application at its boundaries. It involves testing the application with values just above or below the boundaries.
Decision Table Testing
This technique is used to test the application based on its decision tables. It helps identify the conditions that cause a certain application behaviour.
Exploratory Testing
This technique is used to explore the application in an unstructured way. It helps find errors that are not obvious and can be difficult to find.
Use Case Testing
This technique is used to test the application based on its use cases. Use case testing helps in testing the application from an end-user’s perspective.
Check List Based Testing
This technique is used to make sure that all the necessary tasks are completed. It involves checking a list of items to ensure that everything is covered.
Risk-Based Testing
This technique is used to identify, analyze and prioritize risks associated with the application. It helps in focusing on areas that are more vulnerable to errors. Risk-based testing is an important part of software testing as it helps in reducing the chances of errors.
User Journey Test
This technique is used to test the application from the user’s perspective. It involves testing the application with different scenarios and use cases. User journey testing helps in identifying any areas of improvement.
User Story Testing (Agile)
This technique is used to test the application based on user stories. It helps in testing the application from an end-user perspective, and it also helps in identifying any areas of improvement.
Statement Coverage and Branch Coverage
This technique is used to test the application based on its statement coverage and branch coverage. Statement coverage helps in making sure that all the statements in the code are executed at least once. On the other hand, branch coverage helps to make sure that all the branches of logic have been tested.
Mutation Testing
This technique is used to test the application for any errors in its logic. It involves testing a changed code version and verifying that it produces the expected result. Mutation testing helps in ensuring that the code is robust and free from errors.
Path Coverage Testing
This technique is used to make sure that all the possible paths are tested. It helps find any overlooked paths, such as loops or decision points.
Conclusion
Software testing techniques are essential for ensuring that the application is robust and reliable. Different techniques can be used to test the application based on its requirements and constraints. Using the right technique for each application is vital to ensure that all aspects have been covered. Proper software testing can help ensure the end-users have a great experience.
If you need more help understanding the different software testing techniques or have any questions, please get in touch with ImpactQA. Our team of experts will provide you with the best advice and guidance. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today, and let us help you ensure the success of your project.