Software development processes require testing, an essential part that can take many forms to meet different requirements. Today, we’ll talk about three types of software testing: pipeline, automated, and manual. We’ll also talk about the skills needed for each type, how they function, and which ones to choose first.
Manual Testing
Skills Required:
- A keen eye for details
- Problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication abilities
- Loads of patience
- Solid knowledge of the software’s purpose
How it Works:
Manual testing involves human testers executing test cases without the assistance of automated testing tools. Testers interact with the software as end-users would, checking for defects, usability issues, and other quality concerns. They follow test plans and document the results. Manual testing is especially useful for exploratory testing, ad-hoc testing, and usability testing.
When to Use:
- Exploratory Testing:Â This allows testers to enter a product and find bugs and errors without the help of a script or test cases. And it is used when you want to uncover hidden issues.
- Usability Testing:Â Usability testing is a technique used in user-centered interaction design to evaluate a product by testing it on users. It is used to ensure the software is easy and enjoyable.
- Ad-hoc Testing: This software testing technique is performed without any specific test plan or predefined set of steps. You use it when you don’t have a fixed plan and need to test as you go.
Automated Testing
Skills Required:
- A bit of coding knowledge (don’t worry, it’s not that scary)
- Familiarity with testing tools
- The ability to create and manage test scripts
- Good problem-solving skills
How it Works:
Automated testing involves using software tools to execute pre-defined test scripts and compare the actual results with expected results. Testers write these scripts, which can range from simple to complex, depending on the testing requirements. Automated testing is highly efficient for regression testing, load testing, and repetitive test cases.
When to Use:
- Regression Testing:Â This type of testing in the software development cycle runs after every change to ensure that the change introduces no unintended breaks. And you use it to make sure new changes didn’t break the old stuff.
- Load Testing:Â This is the process of putting simulated demand on software, an application, or a website in a way that tests or demonstrates its behavior under various conditions. And you use it to see how the software handles many users simultaneously.
- Repetitive Testing:Â These checks ensure that everything is working appropriately. And you use it for tests that need to be run again and again.
Pipeline Testing
Skills Required:
- Understanding of cool stuff like CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery) tools
- Some knowledge of version control (like using Git)
- Scripting skills for setting up automated pipelines
- A good grasp of how software is built and delivered
How it Works:
A step in the CI/CD process is pipeline testing, sometimes called continuous testing. Tests are automatically run at different points in the software delivery chain. This guarantees that problems are found and fixed as soon as feasible. Unit testing, integration testing, and end-to-end testing are frequently included in pipeline testing, which is carried out in an automated, controlled setting.
When to Use:
- Continuous Integration:Â To automatically check new code changes as they happen.
- Continuous Delivery:Â To keep your software ready for deployment at all times.
- Early Detection: To spot and fix issues right away.
In software testing, these types—Manual, Automated, and Pipeline Testing—have unique roles. The choice depends on what your software needs, and often, a combination of these testing types will ensure you deliver top-notch software to your users with confidence.
