4.4 - Summary Table of Testing Types
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Manual Testing vs Automation Testing
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Today, we'll explore the differences between Manual and Automation Testing. Manual Testing is conducted manually by individuals, while Automation Testing utilizes tools to perform tests automatically. Can anyone provide examples when we might prefer Manual Testing over Automation Testing?
I believe Manual Testing is preferred for UI testing when we need to assess user experiences directly.
That's correct! Manual Testing is indeed better for exploratory testing scenarios where a human's judgment is invaluable. What are some challenges we face with Manual Testing?
It can be very time-consuming and not scalable, especially for repetitive tasks.
Good point! Time consumption and scalability are significant downsides. Now, what types of tests do you think would benefit from Automation Testing?
Regression Testing seems like a great candidate, since it involves running the same tests repeatedly.
Absolutely! Automation excels in scenarios like Regression Testing and Performance Testing due to its speed and accuracy. Let's summarize: Manual Testing is intuitive but limited in repeatability, while Automation Testing brings speed and consistent results but requires upfront setup.
Functional vs Non-Functional Testing
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Another critical distinction in testing is Functional vs Non-Functional Testing. Can anyone define what Functional Testing is?
Functional Testing verifies what the system does and the expected outcomes based on requirements.
Exactly! It verifies specific functionalities like login or payment processes. Now, what about Non-Functional Testing? How does it differ?
Non-Functional Testing looks at how well the system performs, like its speed and usability.
Right! Non-Functional Testing addresses performance criteria, such as load handling and accessibility. Why might both types be needed?
We need to ensure not only that the application works as intended but also that it performs well under various conditions.
Well said! Both aspects are crucial for delivering a quality software product.
Common Types of Testing
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Next, letβs dive into common types of testing: Regression, Smoke, Sanity, UAT, and Performance Testing. What is the purpose of Regression Testing?
It checks that new changes havenβt broken existing functionalities!
Correct! And when is it typically performed?
After every code change or bug fix.
Nicely done! Now, how does Smoke Testing differ?
Smoke Testing is a quick set of tests to verify the essential functions work before more detailed testing.
Exactly! Think of it as an initial check to see if the system is stable enough. Now, Student_4, can you explain the purpose of User Acceptance Testing?
UAT ensures the system meets business needs and verifies that users can perform real-world tasks.
Great job! UAT is crucial for validating the application from the users' perspective before production. Lastly, can you summarize the difference between Performance Testing and the other types?
Performance Testing focuses on how the system behaves under load, while most other tests check functionalities.
Excellent observation! Performance Testing is indeed key for ensuring reliability and stress management. In summary, these various testing types have specific roles and are integral to successful software deployment.
Introduction & Overview
Read summaries of the section's main ideas at different levels of detail.
Quick Overview
Standard
The Summary Table of Testing Types consolidates crucial categories of software testing, contrasting manual, automation, functional, and non-functional testing. It underscores the importance of selecting appropriate testing methods based on the projectβs requirements, emphasizing various testing types including regression, smoke, sanity, UAT, and performance testing.
Detailed
Summary Table of Testing Types
Software testing is essential in quality assurance (QA), with various methods tailored to specific project needs. This section develops an understanding of the differences between manual and automated testing, as well as functional and non-functional testing, and outlines several common types of testing employed across projects.
Manual Testing vs Automation Testing
- Manual Testing involves human testers executing tests without the aid of automated tools, best for exploratory or UI tests.
- Automation Testing allows scripts/tools to automatically execute tests, ideal for repetitive and regression tests.
Functional vs Non-Functional Testing
- Functional Testing checks the applicationβs capabilities against defined requirements focusing on actions and outputs.
- Non-Functional Testing assesses the quality attributes of the system like performance and usability.
Common Types of Testing
Includes Regression, Smoke, Sanity, UAT, and Performance Testing, each serving distinct purposes such as ensuring functionality post-update (Regression) or validating user requirements (UAT).
Overall, the type of testing chosen should be aligned with the contextual needs, project stage, and business priorities.
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Overview of Testing Types
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Chapter Content
The summary table below categorizes different types of testing based on whether they are functional or non-functional, manual or automated, and when they are typically used.
Detailed Explanation
The summary table serves as a quick reference for QA professionals. It provides a clear breakdown of testing types under two main categories: functional and non-functional, and further classifies them based on whether they are manual or automated. This organization helps testers quickly identify which type of testing is appropriate for their needs based on the context of the project.
Examples & Analogies
Think of this summary table as a menu in a restaurant. Just as a menu lists different types of dishes based on categories (like appetizers, main courses, desserts), the testing types table lays out various testing methodologies based on their functionalities and methodologies, making it easier for testers to pick what they need.
Manual Functional Testing
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Chapter Content
Manual Functional/Non-Functional Testing
Use Case: Manual UI, ad-hoc, exploratory testing.
Detailed Explanation
Manual functional testing involves human testers performing tests without the aid of automation tools. This type is especially helpful for user interface (UI) evaluations, ad-hoc scenarios where testing requires flexibility, and exploratory testing where testers can use their intuition to find issues that structured tests might miss. It allows for subjective assessments of usability and design.
Examples & Analogies
Consider this like a chef tasting a dish. A chef will taste and adjust seasonings based on their knowledge and experience rather than following a strict recipe. Similarly, manual functional testing allows testers to use their insight and experience to evaluate the software.
Automated Functional Testing
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Automated Functional/Non-Functional Testing
Use Case: Automated regression or repeated test cases.
Detailed Explanation
Automated functional testing uses scripts and tools to run tests automatically, which is efficient for regression testing and repetitive test cases. This type of testing is highly valuable for tasks that need to be repeated often, such as after every code update, where automated tests can quickly verify that existing functionalities remain intact.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine a factory assembly line where robots perform the same task repeatedly. Just as automation in factories speeds up production and ensures quality, automated testing speeds up the testing process and enhances reliability in software development.
Regression Testing
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Regression Testing
Functional Both
When: After updates or bug fixes.
Detailed Explanation
Regression testing is performed to ensure that recent code changes have not adversely affected existing functionality. This testing is crucial during software development because it helps catch any new bugs introduced during updates or fixes. The process usually involves running a suite of tests on the application after changes are made.
Examples & Analogies
Think of regression testing like checking your entire house after making renovations. Just as you would want to make sure that the new painting work hasnβt caused any leaks or issues elsewhere, regression testing checks to ensure that the new code does not disrupt the existing system.
Smoke Testing
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Smoke Testing
Functional Both
Use Case: Early tests after deployment.
Detailed Explanation
Smoke testing refers to a preliminary test that checks the basic functionality of an application. It aims to identify simple failures that could stop further testing. This is usually done after a new build is deployed to ensure the core functionalities work correctly before proceeding further with more detailed testing.
Examples & Analogies
You can compare smoke testing to turning on a light bulb. When you flip the switch, the first thing you want to check is whether the light turns onβthis shows that the basic power supply is working and that you can move on to the next steps, like adjusting the brightness or adding lamps.
Sanity Testing
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Sanity Testing
Functional Manual
When: Post-fix validation.
Detailed Explanation
Sanity testing is a focused form of testing that checks whether a specific function or bug fix works properly. This differs from regression testing, as it typically does not involve retesting the entire application but is instead aimed at validating specific functionalities that are relevant to the recent changes.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine you fixed a leak under your sink. Sanity testing is akin to running the faucet for a bit to ensure that the repair worked, rather than inspecting every pipe in the house. Youβre just checking the relevant area that was supposed to be fixed.
User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
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UAT
Functional Mostly Manual
Use Case: Final business validation.
Detailed Explanation
User Acceptance Testing is a crucial phase where real business users test the system to ensure it meets their needs and requirements. This testing serves as the final validation before the software goes live and is often performed in a real-world environment by the end users.
Examples & Analogies
It's like taking a new car for a test drive before buying it. Potential buyers want to ensure it feels right and meets their expectations before making a significant investment, similarly, business users need to make sure that the software satisfies their operational needs before itβs officially deployed.
Performance Testing
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Performance Testing
Non-Functional Automated
Use Case: Load/stress evaluation.
Detailed Explanation
Performance testing evaluates how the application behaves under various conditions of load and stress. This includes different subtypes, such as load testing (validating normal capacity) and stress testing (checking the limits). It is crucial for identifying potential bottlenecks and ensuring a smooth user experience.
Examples & Analogies
Consider performance testing as training for a marathon runner. Just as a runner practices under increasing distances and varying conditions to understand their limits and prepare for race day, performance testing helps the application understand how it will perform under real-world stress and heavy user loads.
Key Concepts
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Manual Testing: Human-executed testing without automated assistance, suitable for exploratory tasks.
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Automated Testing: Testing performed using scripts or tools for efficiency and scalability.
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Functional Testing: Validation of system behaviors and outputs based on specifications.
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Non-Functional Testing: Assessment of quality attributes like performance and usability.
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Regression Testing: Testing to ensure recent changes haven't negatively impacted existing functionalities.
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Smoke Testing: Preliminary testing to confirm essential system functions.
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Sanity Testing: Focused testing post-bug fixes to validate specific functionalities.
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User Acceptance Testing (UAT): Testing by end-users to verify that their needs and requirements are met.
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Performance Testing: Evaluation of system performance under varying load conditions.
Examples & Applications
Manual Testing is often used in exploratory testing, where testers assess the user interface directly.
Automation Testing tools like Selenium are ideal for regression testing due to their speed and ability to run repetitive tests.
Functional Testing can include scenarios such as validating login processes or payment transactions.
Non-Functional Testing can assess how quickly a webpage loads under stress or how secure a login system is.
Regression Testing verifies that new code changes donβt disrupt established functionalities, like ensuring an old login feature still works after an update.
Memory Aids
Interactive tools to help you remember key concepts
Rhymes
In Manual Testing, humans do the work, / But Automation makes it fast with a perk.
Stories
Imagine you're baking a cake; Manual Testing is like tasting each layer yourself, while Automation is like using a mixer to quickly combine ingredients.
Memory Tools
FIND - Functional checks Inputs, Navigates, and Displays outputs or actions.
Acronyms
PARSER - Performance, Acceptance, Regression, Sanity, Exploratory, Regression - key types of testing.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Manual Testing
Testing performed manually without automated tools, often relying on human intuition.
- Automation Testing
Using scripts or tools to automatically execute tests, allowing for faster and repeatable testing.
- Functional Testing
A type of testing that verifies specific functionalities of the system based on requirements.
- NonFunctional Testing
Testing that examines the performance, usability, and reliability aspects of a system.
- Regression Testing
Testing conducted to ensure that recent changes haven't adversely affected existing functionalities.
- Smoke Testing
Basic tests to check if the major functionalities of a system are working after a deployment.
- Sanity Testing
Focused testing to verify specific bug fixes or functionality to ensure it works as intended.
- User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
Testing performed by end-users to ensure the system meets their needs before it goes live.
- Performance Testing
Testing that evaluates the system's performance under a load and ensures it operates efficiently.
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