
<p>In modern e-commerce, omnichannel is both a buzzword and a mandatory protocol. Simply put, an omnichannel experience gives customers a fluid and seamless process on all channels – in-store, online, mobile, SMS, and even social media.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, for a digital omnichannel experience, brands must test all online pipelines through which customers interact with the brand. Essentially, QA teams must check that the brand has a technically effective presence on every platform and that the whole customer pipeline works equally well on multiple devices, browsers, and operating systems (multichannel testing).</p>



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets"><p class="toc_title">Table Of Contents</p><ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#Omnichannel_testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> Omnichannel testing</a></li><li><a href="#Why_omnichannel_testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> Why omnichannel testing?</a></li><li><a href="#When_to_Use_Omnichannel_Testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> When to Use Omnichannel Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Manual_Vs_Automated_Omnichannel_Testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> Manual Vs Automated Omnichannel Testing</a></li><li><a href="#How_can_Testsigma_help_in_Omnichannel_Testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">5</span> How can Testsigma help in Omnichannel Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">6</span> Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_omnichannel_retail_software_testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">6.1</span> What is omnichannel retail software testing?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_an_example_of_an_omnichannel"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">6.2</span> What is an example of an omnichannel?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-omnichannel-testing"><span id="Omnichannel_testing">Omnichannel testing</span></h2>



<p>Omnichannel testing is a process that verifies the efficacy of an app across different devices and platforms. It is required to ensure that the user experience is consistent and effective across all platforms.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This form of testing checks if users can get the desired results from a brand on every digital channel. Whether they try to click a purchase link from an app, website, or even WhatsApp or email, they should get the same result – the ability to quickly buy the product.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Since omnichannel testing involves checking the same steps on each platform, accessed from multiple browsers, devices, and OSes, it is best accomplished using automation. Using the right test automation tools, like <a href="https://testsigma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma</a>, QAs can test each of the many pipelines through which users digitally interact with the software systems deployed by a brand or organization.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-why-omnichannel-testing"><span id="Why_omnichannel_testing">Why omnichannel testing?</span></h2>



<ul><li>Ensures software compatibility with multiple browsers and devices.<br></li><li><a href="https://www.cigniti.com/blog/omni-channel-experience-testing-for-new-age-enterprises/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Studies</a> have shown that a substantial percentage of customers or users lose interest in your application if it is unable to deliver the expected experience across multiple platforms. Omnichannel testing prevents this eventuality.<br></li><li>Ensures that revenue levels are unaffected by a glitch in digital customer pipelines.<br></li><li>Ensures positive brand image by offering an excellent experience for people on all platforms.<br></li><li>Helps to leverage the maximum results from online advertising, including social media.<br></li><li>Allows customers the choice to purchase from a brand, no matter which online channel they prefer.<br></li><li>Helps ensure device compatibility in the midst of increasing mobile device and mobile OS fragmentation.<br></li><li>Enables high levels of usability and accessibility of software.<br></li><li>Since security testing is an essential part of omnichannel testing, it helps to prevent data theft or information loss through any online avenues.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-when-to-use-omnichannel-testing"><span id="When_to_Use_Omnichannel_Testing">When to Use Omnichannel Testing</span></h2>



<ul><li>When a brand wants to offer a digital customer experience that is browser, device, and OS-agnostic.&nbsp;</li><li>When the brand’s digital assets must be checked for compatibility with a large number of device-browser combinations.&nbsp;</li><li>When a team wants to ensure customer-first approaches on all digital channels.&nbsp;</li><li>When multiple digital avenues to access a brand’s assets have to be tested for security to prevent data breaches.&nbsp;</li><li>When customer experience is a priority for any digital-first organization.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-manual-vs-automated-omnichannel-testing"><span id="Manual_Vs_Automated_Omnichannel_Testing">Manual Vs Automated Omnichannel Testing</span></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Manual Omnichannel Testing</strong></td><td><strong>Automated Omnichannel Testing</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Requires the testing of the same digital process on multiple devices and platforms manually.&nbsp;</td><td>Enables the automation of the same process.&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Consumes an inordinate amount of human effort and resources.&nbsp;</td><td>Makes efficient use of available resources by automating repetitive processes.&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Vulnerable to human error from too many repetitive tests.</td><td>Generally immune to error, as long as test scripts are properly crafted and loaded.&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Requires extensive documentation and coordination (along with a large number of testers) to accomplish.&nbsp;</td><td>Requires relatively less work since <a href="https://testsigma.com/tools/automation-testing-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">automation tools</a> can be fed with multiple test scripts, and tests can be consecutively scheduled.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2 id="h-how-can-testsigma-help-in-omnichannel-testing"><span id="How_can_Testsigma_help_in_Omnichannel_Testing">How can Testsigma help in Omnichannel Testing</span></h2>



<p>Testsigma is a codeless <a href="https://testsigma.com/ai-driven-test-automation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GenAI-powered test automation</a> platform for web, mobile, API, and desktop application testing. It allows you to automate end-to-end testing for applications on different platforms/devices in the cloud without requiring any coding expertise.</p>



<p>It ensures your application is functional, responsive, and compatible with various devices, platforms, browsers, and screens, ensuring a positive user experience. Unlike traditional test automation, Testsigma does not require coding or setup, making it accessible for technical and non-technical members.</p>



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<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-questions"><span id="Frequently_Asked_Questions">Frequently Asked Questions</span></h2>



<h3 id="h-what-is-omnichannel-retail-software-testing"><span id="What_is_omnichannel_retail_software_testing">What is omnichannel retail software testing?</span></h3>



<p>Omnichannel retail software testing tests that all digital interactions with software (from the customer’s end) are pristine and seamless. It is executed with the intent of providing customers with a seamless and unified brand experience, irrespective of whether they are shopping through Facebook, WhatsApp, the brand’s app, or website.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-what-is-an-example-of-an-omnichannel"><span id="What_is_an_example_of_an_omnichannel">What is an example of an omnichannel?</span></h3>



<p>Let’s say one customer prefers to buy products via an e-commerce brand’s app, while another prefers to sign up for an online newsletter that comes with product updates, discount codes, and offers. Another customer likes to visit stores and explore the products before buying them.&nbsp;</p>



<p>An omnichannel approach would ensure that all three customers would have a perfect user experience. The brand’s digital assets are perfectly attuned for positive, low-effort usage across all online (and offline) channels.</p>


Omnichannel testing: A comprehensive overview


<p>When exploring tools for automated software testing, QA professionals often come up against the “TestNG vs Selenium” comparison. Both are popular tools, but they bring specific advantages to the table. Despite their differences, Selenium and TestNG often work in a complementary fashion to improve test execution and management.</p>



<p>This article will explore the features, benefits, connections, and differences between these automated testing tools. It’ll also explore how a tool like Testsigma can help you improve the capabilities of both. Consider this your starting point for researching these solutions and their usability for your Quality Assurance pipelines.</p>



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets"><p class="toc_title">Table Of Contents</p><ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#TestNG_vs_Selenium_8211_Overview"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> TestNG vs Selenium &#8211; Overview</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_TestNG"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">1.1</span> What is TestNG?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_Selenium"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">1.2</span> What is Selenium?</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#What_is_TestNG_in_Selenium"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> What is TestNG in Selenium?</a></li><li><a href="#Why_Use_TestNG_with_Selenium"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> Why Use TestNG with Selenium?</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_Automate_TestNG_in_Selenium"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> How to Automate TestNG in Selenium?</a></li><li><a href="#TestNG_vs_Selenium_Alternative_Testsigma"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">5</span> TestNG vs Selenium Alternative: Testsigma</a></li><li><a href="#Selenium_vs_TestNG_vs_Testsigma_8211_Comparison"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">6</span> Selenium vs TestNG vs Testsigma &#8211; Comparison</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">7</span> Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">8</span> Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#Are_TestNG_and_Selenium_the_same"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">8.1</span> Are TestNG and Selenium the same?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="testng-vs-selenium-overview"><span id="TestNG_vs_Selenium_8211_Overview"><strong>TestNG vs Selenium &#8211; Overview</strong></span></h2>



<h3 id="h-what-is-testng"><span id="What_is_TestNG">What is TestNG?</span></h3>



<p>TestNG (Test Next Generation) is modeled after JUnit and NUnit, powered by Java, and equipped with additional features for better functionality.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Read More: <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/junit-vs-testng/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JUnit vs TestNG </a></p>



<p>It facilitates test setup, execution, data-driven tests, and annotations – especially helpful for test configuration and management. QA professionals often use TestNG to create easy-to-maintain unit, functional, and integration tests. It is known for offering high levels of test flexibility as well as exceptional reporting capabilities.</p>



<h3 id="h-what-is-selenium"><span id="What_is_Selenium">What is Selenium?</span></h3>



<p>Selenium is an exceptionally popular open-source tool for <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-web-application-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">automated web application testing</a>. Fundamentally, it allows testers to automate user actions on web browsers to verify the web app’s functionality, performance and usability.</p>



<p>Selenium users can design tests in multiple programming languages &#8211; Java, Python, C#, etc. Tests can automate functions like clicking buttons, entering text, and navigating between web pages-— on different browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.</p>



<p>Its open-source nature and support for multiple browsers and languages makes Selenium a key element of most mature CI/CD pipelines.</p>



<p>The challenges with <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/selenium-based-automated-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Selenium automation testing</a> include strong expertise in coding, limitations to web application, etc.</p>



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<h2 id="h-what-is-testng-in-selenium"><span id="What_is_TestNG_in_Selenium"><strong>What is TestNG in Selenium?</strong></span></h2>



<p>In many automation pipelines powered by Selenium, TestNG serves as the test execution engine. This is because the tools work specifically well with particular tasks &#8211; Selenium for browser automation tasks, TestNG for the test execution flow &#8211; setup, teardown, grouping, prioritization, and reporting.</p>



<p>Combining TestNG with Selenium is considered a best practice in QA, as it helps testers control the SDLC effectively while also scaling automation with minimal effort. The integration is especially useful for implementing parallel tests and deploying customized test suites to meet testers’ specific requirements in the technical pipeline.</p>



<h2 id="h-why-use-testng-with-selenium"><span id="Why_Use_TestNG_with_Selenium"><strong>Why Use TestNG with Selenium?</strong></span></h2>



<p>Using TestNG with Selenium transforms test automation with greater efficiency. Since Selenium alone cannot handle test management, grouping, parameterization, and reporting, TestNG comes into the picture. By offering annotation-based configurations like @BeforeSuite, @Test, and @AfterMethod, TestNG makes it easier to automate, refine and accelerate complex test flows.</p>



<p>TestNG also facilitates data-driven testing via its @DataProvider annotation, by enabling the same test run with different and multiple inputs. This is needed to accurately replicate real-world, production-level scenarios.</p>



<p>Integrating TestNG with Selenium delivers faster feedback, improved coverage, and more consistent quality across multiple test environments.</p>



<p>Read More: <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/selenium-alternatives/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Selenium Alternatives</a></p>



<p>Here are a few specific advantages of using TestNG in tandem with Selenium:</p>



<ul><li><strong>Improved reporting</strong>: Selenium cannot generate detailed test reports, but TestNG can. It can report on the number of test cases executed, passed, failed, and skipped, along with the duration of each test case and logs, aiding in debugging and analysis.</li><li><strong>Better test management</strong>: TestNG helps organize test cases, suites and classes for better structuring and management. It enables implementation of <a href="https://testsigma.com/parallel-test-runs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">parallel testing</a> to reduce overall execution time.</li><li><strong>Annotations:</strong> TestNG annotations like @Test, @BeforeClass, @AfterClass help testers control execution flow, and define dependencies between test methods &#8211; ensuring that specific tests are run often after other related tests have passed.</li><li><strong>Listeners</strong>: TestNG provides listeners to capture and log events during test flows. It can capture the moment a test case starts, fails or succeeds, making it possible to grab screenshots when a test fails or sends notifications.</li><li><strong>Integrations:</strong> TestNG integrates with different tools and frameworks, expanding its abilities as well as those of Selenium.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-how-to-automate-testng-in-selenium"><span id="How_to_Automate_TestNG_in_Selenium"><strong>How to Automate TestNG in Selenium?</strong></span></h2>



<p>In order to automate TestNG with Selenium, testers have to integrate both tools in a Java project using IDEs like Eclipse or IntelliJ.</p>



<p>Start by building Selenium WebDriver scripts to simulate user actions with the application under test. Then, wrap those scripts with TestNG annotations to refine and manage the test execution flow.</p>



<p>Consider the steps below:</p>



<ol><li>Add TestNG and Selenium WebDriver dependencies with Maven or Gradle.</li><li>Build test methods using TestNG annotations — @Test, @BeforeClass, and @AfterMethod.</li><li>Use the testng.xml suite file to run the tests. You can also run them directly from the IDE.</li><li>TestNG will automatically generate reports that allow testers to analyze test results and failures.</li></ol>



<p>To implement these tests in a continuous pipeline, further automate them with Jenkins so that tests can run after every code commit.</p>



<h2 id="h-testng-vs-selenium-alternative-testsigma"><span id="TestNG_vs_Selenium_Alternative_Testsigma"><strong>TestNG vs Selenium Alternative: Testsigma</strong></span></h2>



<p>Testsigma is a powerful GenAI-powered codeless test automation platform that lets you automate web, mobile, desktop, API, and Salesforce applications. It is a robust Selenium alternative as it cuts down test authoring time, execution time, zero setup, and more. <a href="https://testsigma.com/comparison-automated-testing-tools-selenium-testsigma" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma vs Selenium</a>, can be a tricky choice to make for most teams, however, this comparison can help you decide what’s best for your business.</p>



<p>You can use Recorder, NLP-Engine, or Copilot to create tests without requiring any code. Run tests on the cloud without requiring any setup or installation. It makes test automation accessible for both technical and non-technical users.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXeCrkY-0GdGP-Ov4x6ooeAzQe3RtaMx2pWfMir1za-j89RK_kuL7LVWfxzkA0zniAJq7P6_SnONquwNoTOxoH1ow8vsGL1pRx9q1PnxvHnAqrLDNWlZJidrwJxHLTpB2QMUMF3xDg?key=1aaBbeXE6W-AtYmnZFTnCyH1" alt="Testsigma" /></figure>



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<h2 id="h-selenium-vs-testng-vs-testsigma-comparison"><span id="Selenium_vs_TestNG_vs_Testsigma_8211_Comparison"><strong>Selenium vs TestNG vs Testsigma &#8211; Comparison</strong></span></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><thead><tr><th scope="col"><strong>Tool</strong></th><th scope="col"><strong>Selenium</strong></th><th scope="col"><strong>TestNG</strong></th><th scope="col"><strong>Testsigma</strong></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Type</strong></td><td><a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-automation-frameworks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test automation framework</a>&nbsp;</td><td>Testing framework</td><td>Test automation platform (Low-code/No-code)</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Purpose</strong></td><td>Automate browser tasks</td><td>Manage test execution and structure</td><td>End-to-end test automation with AI capabilities</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Technical Knowledge</strong></td><td>Required (Java, Python, etc.)</td><td>Required (Java-based)</td><td>Not required (codeless interface)</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Integrations</strong></td><td>Integrates with TestNG, JUnit, etc.</td><td>Supports Selenium, Jenkins, Maven, etc.</td><td>Integrates with 30+ tools, including, Jira, Slack, etc.</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Reporting</strong></td><td>Basic reporting via logs</td><td>Advanced reporting via HTML/XML reports, logs</td><td>Provides built-in dashboards and analytics</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Learning curve</strong></td><td>Moderate to High</td><td>Moderate</td><td>Minimal</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Ideal for</strong></td><td>QA Engineers, Developers</td><td>QA Automation Engineers</td><td>Manual Testers, QA Teams, or anyone in the project.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2 id="h-conclusion"><span id="Conclusion"><strong>Conclusion</strong></span></h2>



<p>By understanding and leveraging the TestNG and Selenium, QA engineers can build scalable and maintainable automation frameworks with much less effort. Selenium automates the browser interaction and TestNG manages all protocols of test execution and management.</p>



<p>Combining both creates streamlined workflows for testing teams of all sizes. Since both tools are open-source, they meet the budgetary restraints of most teams.</p>



<p>However, integrating and operating TestNG with Selenium requires considerable technical expertise. Only programmers can utilize these tools to their full potential, making their usage nearly impossible for most employees in any organization.</p>



<p>The answer is a codeless/no-code tool like Testsigma. You can automate tests and do everything required to run state-of-the-art test flows without writing a single line of code.</p>



<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-questions"><span id="Frequently_Asked_Questions"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions</strong></span></h2>



<h3 id="h-are-testng-and-selenium-the-same"><span id="Are_TestNG_and_Selenium_the_same">Are TestNG and Selenium the same?</span></h3>



<p>No, TestNG and Selenium are not the same.</p>



<p>Selenium simulates and automates user actions on elements of web applications. On the other hand, TestNG can structure and manage test cases built with Java.</p>



<p>Basically, Selenium handles the “how”, while TestNG manages the “when” and “what” aspects of a software quality assurance flow.</p>



<p>These tools are exceptionally efficient when combined to build a cohesive test pipeline that is easy to monitor and manage.</p>


TestNG vs Selenium – Top 10 Differences

Extensive Testing in Software Testing

The Role of AI in DevOps [Tester’s Edition]


<p>As with any form of creation, manufacturing, and development, it is better to identify problems sooner rather than later. Regarding software development and testing, this is exceptionally true.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When it comes to pushing high-quality software, defect prevention is integral. Catching bugs and anomalies early makes it much easier to resolve them, as opposed to dealing with their effects once they have been enmeshed into the system.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In this piece, we’ll dive into the definition, necessity, and principles of defect prevention.&nbsp; We’ll also discuss techniques to perform defect prevention and the integral role of automation in this layer of quality assurance.&nbsp;</p>



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets"><p class="toc_title">Table Of Contents</p><ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_Defect_Prevention"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> What is Defect Prevention?</a></li><li><a href="#Advantages_of_Early_Defect_Detection"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> Advantages of Early Defect Detection</a></li><li><a href="#Principles_of_Defect_Preventionnbsp"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> Principles of Defect Prevention&nbsp;</a><ul><li><a href="#Software_Requirements_Analysis"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">3.1</span> Software Requirements Analysis</a></li><li><a href="#Reviews_Self-Review_and_Peer_Review"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">3.2</span> Reviews: Self-Review and Peer Review</a></li><li><a href="#Defect_Logging_and_Documentation"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">3.3</span> Defect Logging and Documentation</a></li><li><a href="#Root_Cause_Analysis_and_Preventive_Measures_Determination"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">3.4</span> Root Cause Analysis and Preventive Measures Determination</a></li><li><a href="#Embedding_Procedures_into_Software_Development_Process"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">3.5</span> Embedding Procedures into Software Development Process</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Role_played_by_Test_Automation_in_Defect_Prevention"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> Role played by Test Automation in Defect Prevention</a></li><li><a href="#Summary"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">5</span> Summary</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">6</span> Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_a_checklist_and_how_does_it_prevent_defects"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">6.1</span> What is a checklist and how does it prevent defects?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_the_difference_between_defect_detection_and_defect_prevention"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">6.2</span> What is the difference between defect detection and defect prevention?</a></li><li><a href="#How_does_QA_prevent_defects"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">6.3</span> How does QA prevent defects?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-defect-prevention"><span id="What_is_Defect_Prevention">What is Defect Prevention?</span></h2>



<p>Defect prevention is a strategy in the SDLC that is deployed to identify and target the root causes of any defects. The process involves analyzing defects appearing in past projects, laying down distinct checkpoints in the pipelines, and taking action to prevent the emergence of similar defects/bugs/anomalies in the future.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Defect Prevention is built on the extraction of and sharing of technical knowledge between QA teams or testing projects. Prevention methods are used to improve quality and productivity while keeping development costs low.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-advantages-of-early-defect-detection"><span id="Advantages_of_Early_Defect_Detection">Advantages of Early Defect Detection</span></h2>



<ul><li>Defects are much easier to handle if discovered at an early stage. Rigorous detection cycles can identify potential issues before they snowball into bigger, more expensive problems. Think of it as examining the raw materials in a manufacturing process before sending them into the manufacturing pipeline.<br></li><li>Reduces rework, waste and minimizes the risk of customer complaints and app uninstallations.<br></li><li>Allows teams to monitor operations, analyze data, and narrow down testing areas for optimization and change. Leads to lower cycle times, higher efficiency rates, and targeted utilization of resources. This inevitably translates to cost savings.<br></li><li>Frees up dev and QA time that would otherwise be spent dealing with completely avoidable bugs.<br></li><li>Forces test leaders to think in terms of prevention and optimization when designing test cases, scripts, and implementation guidelines.<br></li><li>Involves collaboration with all stakeholders so as to prioritize what defects and bugs should be quickly detected, based on user paths, preferences, actions and business needs.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-principles-of-defect-prevention"><span id="Principles_of_Defect_Preventionnbsp"><strong>Principles of Defect Prevention&nbsp;</strong></span></h2>



<h3 id="h-software-requirements-analysis"><span id="Software_Requirements_Analysis">Software Requirements Analysis</span></h3>



<p>Defects in the requirements and design phase will translate to foundational source code, if not rooted out at the source. Requirements-based defects are the hardest to eliminate after coding begins, because it often means undoing protocols that prop up the whole system.&nbsp;</p>



<p>These defects cannot be found via traditional testing methods. They require review and inspections after the documents are finalized.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Read More:</strong> <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/techniques-to-prevent-software-bugs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Techniques To Prevent Software Bugs</a></p>



<p><em>“According to Crosstalk, the Journal of Defense Software Engineering, “most failures in software products are due to errors in the requirements and design phases—as high as 64 percent of total defect costs.” </em><a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/uk/Documents/technology/deloitte-uk-your-bad-requirements-are-costing-you-money.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Source</a></p>



<p>All software requirements and designs must be reviewed to ensure that the requirements accurately reflect customer needs. Consider running sessions between devs and customers so the software creators understand what they need to prioritize in their code.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-reviews-self-review-and-peer-review"><span id="Reviews_Self-Review_and_Peer_Review">Reviews: Self-Review and Peer Review</span></h3>



<p>Self-reviews and peer reviews refine code quality by bringing multiple pairs of eyes on the source code. These reviews are excellent for ferreting out algorithm implementations, holes in logic, and missing conditions. The self-review helps the developer clean up any obvious flaws they might have missed in a rush, while the peer reviews provide a new POV and the expertise of a fellow teammate or manager.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-defect-logging-and-documentation"><span id="Defect_Logging_and_Documentation">Defect Logging and Documentation</span></h3>



<p>All defects must be tracked, logged, investigated, and reported. Ideally, QAs should suggest structures/steps to resolve defects, but that usually only works out when the workload is not overwhelming (and it usually is).&nbsp;</p>



<p>When considering the purchase of a <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-tracking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defect tracking</a> or <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-management/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defect management</a> tool, check for the following features:</p>



<ul><li>Allows QAs to provide complete descriptions of each defect so that devs understand the problem in its entirety.&nbsp;</li><li>Allows QAs to clarify at which phase of software testing the defects have been encountered.&nbsp;</li><li>Allows QAs to upload screenshots/videos for further clarification.</li><li>Contains space to mention the names of QAs who find each defect, so that they can be contacted by devs if so required.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<h3 id="h-root-cause-analysis-and-preventive-measures-determination"><span id="Root_Cause_Analysis_and_Preventive_Measures_Determination">Root Cause Analysis and Preventive Measures Determination</span></h3>



<p>Once defects are logged, they must be examined. Often a meeting (initiated by the project manager/coordinator) is required to explore root causes of as many defects as possible.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This stage – <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-analysis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defect analysis</a> – aims to achieve the following:&nbsp;</p>



<ul><li>Improving software quality by finding and neutralizing as many defects as possible, as early as possible. This requires examination of their root causes.&nbsp;</li><li>Understanding how the defect operates and what function it hinders by speaking directly to the QAs who found it.</li><li>Diving into systemic errors whose cause is buried in the foundation structure of the source code. These bugs are the hardest to handle, and must necessarily be addressed at early stages of the SDLC.</li></ul>



<h3 id="h-embedding-procedures-into-software-development-process"><span id="Embedding_Procedures_into_Software_Development_Process">Embedding Procedures into Software Development Process</span></h3>



<p><strong>Read More</strong>: <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-removal-efficiency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Defect Removal Efficiency: How To Calculate It For Test Automation</a></p>



<p>The last stage of defect prevention requires teams to take their learnings from the analysis stage and use them to optimize the development process. It requires the entire team to figure out ways to modify existing processes, introduce new practices, and provide proof that these changes will have a tangible positive impact on final outcomes.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A few tips to achieve the above:</p>



<ul><li>Provide monthly status reports of the team mentioning recurrent serious defects and analyses.<br></li><li>Monthly (ideally) or fortnightly meetings to inform all stakeholders about the state of the SDLC and any major defects that choke its efficacy.<br></li><li>Taking the time to regularly push for and implement better prevention measures into the SDLC (as far as stakeholder approval makes it possible).<br></li><li>Monitoring the SDLC before and after implementation defect prevention tactics. Have they actually led to a reduction in the number of defects?</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-role-played-by-test-automation-in-defect-prevention"><span id="Role_played_by_Test_Automation_in_Defect_Prevention">Role played by Test Automation in Defect Prevention</span></h2>



<p>Traditionally, test automation has been used to identify defects and refine the QA process by taking human effort out of repetitive and time-intensive tasks. Instead of running a regression test manually for the 6th time, testers can focus on complex problems that machines cannot solve.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Test automation plays the most integral role in defect prevention – finding defects quickly and easily. By creating suitable test scripts, QAs can automate predetermined user actions and analyze the actual results without having to run each step themselves.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Take acceptance tests as an example. Teams can build a set of criteria that denote that software functioning is “acceptable” and deploy automation tools like Testsigma to follow the script and generate error-free results.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Not only does test automation reduce the time and effort required to sniff out major and minor defects, it also takes human error out of the equations. Human eyes and minds are naturally prone to error, especially when they are looking at the same screen and performing the same action over hours. Machines, fed with appropriate and comprehensive input parameters, do not have the same problem. They do not get tired and they do not make human mistakes.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-summary"><span id="Summary">Summary</span></h2>



<p>Quality Assurance doesn’t just eliminate bugs as they show up. In its larger context, QA professionals envision and implement systems to better filter out defects that hamper software performance and user experience.&nbsp;</p>



<p>As technology evolves, so do the defects that infect it. Defect prevention takes a step back from immediate debugging (though that is still very much a part of it) and applies testers’ real-world experiences to development and testing contexts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Defect prevention reduces testing costs, effort and time. It has a direct positive impact on the ROI of QA budgets, because it examines the cause rather than the symptoms of software malfunction.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-questions"><span id="Frequently_Asked_Questions">Frequently Asked Questions</span></h2>



<h3 id="h-what-is-a-checklist-and-how-does-it-prevent-defects"><span id="What_is_a_checklist_and_how_does_it_prevent_defects">What is a checklist and how does it prevent defects?</span></h3>



<p>A checklist is used by QA engineers to note down all steps or tasks to be accomplished in a project. In the defect prevention ecosystem, checklists offer a systematic approach to everything that needs to be done to actually prevent defects.&nbsp;</p>



<p>QAs refer to checklists to confirm that every user step and bug detection mechanism has been enacted or implemented. It is directly useful for improving efficiency, quality, and safety mechanisms.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-what-is-the-difference-between-defect-detection-and-defect-prevention"><span id="What_is_the_difference_between_defect_detection_and_defect_prevention">What is the difference between defect detection and defect prevention?</span></h3>



<p>As the phrases themselves suggest, defect detection is confined to the act of identifying defects in the software as it is developed. Defect prevention, on the other hand, uses experience from past projects to create and embed practices that prevent too many defects from emerging in the first place.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Defect detection is part of defect prevention, but not vice-versa.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 id="h-how-does-qa-prevent-defects"><span id="How_does_QA_prevent_defects">How does QA prevent defects?</span></h3>



<p>The process of Quality Assurance (QA) focuses primarily on finding, tracking, analyzing, reporting, and eliminating defects in software. It also involves building systems to prevent defects from showing up too frequently by addressing the common root causes. By studying such causes, software behavior, and user expectations, experts can put appropriate filters to prevent <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-leakage-in-software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defect leakage</a> in place. They can also recommend best practices that minimize the likelihood of bugs emerging from errors in requirements, design blueprints, and rushed coding.</p>


Defect Prevention Principles, Methods and Techniques

Multi-Tenancy Testing: What it is & How to Perform It

What is Installation Testing – Types & How To Do It

What Is an Emulator Types, Top Benefits & Examples

What Is an Emulator? Types, Top Benefits & Examples

Gap Testing | What it is & How Do You Do a Gap Analysis?


<p>Most QA pipelines must necessarily include, among other test types, exploratory testing. However, adequately comprehensive exploratory testing requires a certain measure of planning and organization – testing objectives, the features to “explore” in the test, expected results, how to record the actual results, and more.&nbsp;</p>



<p>All this information needs to be streamlined into a singular, self-explanatory document, accessible and understandable to the right people. In the QA ecosystem, this document is called a test charter.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In this article, we’ll dive into the definition, nature, benefits, format, and usage of test charters. Think of this as your first step into understanding and creating project-optimal test charters.&nbsp;</p>



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets"><p class="toc_title">Table Of Contents</p><ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_a_Test_Charter"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> What is a Test Charter?</a></li><li><a href="#Why_do_we_need_a_test_charter"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> Why do we need a test charter?</a></li><li><a href="#Benefits_of_Test_Charters"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> Benefits of Test Charters</a><ul><li><a href="#How_to_Develop_a_Test_Charter"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">3.1</span> How to Develop a Test Charter</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Test_Charter_Format_Free_Template"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> Test Charter Format (Free Template)</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">5</span> Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">6</span> Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_an_exploratory_test_charter"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">6.1</span> What is an exploratory test charter?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-a-test-charter"><span id="What_is_a_Test_Charter">What is a Test Charter?</span></h2>



<p>Test charter refers to a document providing an overview of the parameters, goals, and plans governing a test session. It includes information defining the feature under test, the premise/query, the required tool, possible risks, data dependencies, and expected results as well as deadlines.&nbsp;</p>



<p>At a high-level, it is a manual for <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/exploratory-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exploratory testing</a> sessions. It answers questions such as:</p>



<ul><li>What is the primary goal of this test session?</li><li>How long is the test session?</li><li>Which feature(s) will be tested in this session?</li><li>What tools are required for this test session?</li><li>What are the expected results of the test?</li><li>What are the user expectations and requirements for this feature?</li><li>How do I record the actual results?</li><li>Who do I report the results to, once the test is completed?</li></ul>



<p>It is best to assign one test charter to a single session. This helps isolate features when testing and recording results. It also ensures that testers can focus on a single feature, and really get into its systematic operations to verify functionality.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-why-do-we-need-a-test-charter"><span id="Why_do_we_need_a_test_charter">Why do we need a test charter?</span></h2>



<p>Simply put, we need a test charter because exploratory testing does not follow predefined steps. It also does not come with “expected results&#8221; set in stone. This is because the point of the test is to “explore”; testers literally explore the software with the intent to come across any bugs within each feature.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Note</strong>: Exploratory testing is usually not part of <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test automation</a> suites. It requires human judgment, and must necessarily be manually tested. </p>



<br><p><button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Learn more about test automation</a></button></p><br>



<p>Now, this does not mean that testers “explore” the system randomly. They are chosen for their experience, so they know what to look for, and how users would navigate an app or page. They are also given detailed information about requirements, user expectations, and the software’s main functions – all included in the test charter.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The charter helps testers stay focused during exploratory sessions. By designating a single feature and laying out our user expectations, the test charter ensures that QAs do not get bogged down in unnecessary details. They don’t end up testing irrelevant components or verifying aspects that end-users don’t care about (at this stage of testing).</p>



<p>Despite providing a guiding principle, good test charters also encourage diverse and creative thinking. They don’t tell QAs what to test, but give them the core values for the session. QAs keep the primary variable (user expectations, software design) as the base of their action, and then use their industry experience to replicate common and uncommon user scenarios.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Since test charters don’t restrict testers’ actions, they lead to more interesting and experimental test scenarios. That is always a good thing because it generates innovative thinking.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-benefits-of-test-charters"><span id="Benefits_of_Test_Charters">Benefits of Test Charters</span></h2>



<ul><li><strong>Facilitates continuous learning</strong>: Test charters provide an organized framework for test design, and execution, as well as for interpreting results and extracting accurate learnings. While exploratory testing is always left to the tester’s volition (they decide how to use a certain feature, without predetermined test steps).<br><br>However, the test charter provides them with relevant information to better guide the testers’ efforts. An important part of that is evaluating the right variables and identifying opportunities for improvement, be it for the software or the testing process.<br><br>Test charters streamline exploratory testing without limiting the testers’ autonomy.<br></li><li><strong>Assists with innovation and sharing knowledge</strong>: Test charters provide structure, direction, and a central repository for every tester to add their conclusions. As is well known, agile development and testing flourish best when individual members and teams collaborate.<br><br>Test charters provide sufficient context for such collaboration. They record the intent and duration of each session, enabling quicker feedback cycles and analysis.  These charters provide the framework for testers to apply their domain knowledge, intuition, analysis, and user-first thinking.<br></li><li><strong>Helps find bugs not predicted in other tests</strong>: Since exploratory testing is unplanned in execution, it reveals bugs that other planned tests do not. With no test scripts, exploratory testers are free to literally do anything they want on a certain software application. Unpredictable user actions will automatically increase the likelihood of finding bugs no one expected when creating test cases and scripts.<br><br>By directing and structuring exploratory testing, test charters expand test coverage, extending it to the blind spots of other tests. It provides a significant failsafe mechanism for all <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">software testing</a> projects. </li></ul>



<h3 id="h-how-to-develop-a-test-charter"><span id="How_to_Develop_a_Test_Charter">How to Develop a Test Charter</span></h3>



<p>The key to developing an effective test charter is to be methodical. Break down the process into steps using an outline focused on software requirements and projected user preferences. Additionally, be aware that all elements of the test charter will change as the project and software under development evolve.&nbsp;</p>



<ul><li>Start by isolating the feature to be tested.&nbsp;</li><li>Note down all relevant project specifications, user stories, risk assessment, and technical as well as business requirements.&nbsp;</li><li>Create the “test idea” i.e., the idea around which the test will proceed. This is up to the QA, who will create it using their experience and intuition.&nbsp;</li><li>Detail the resources, data, tools, and environment requirements for the test.&nbsp;</li><li>Mention the goals of the test session.&nbsp;</li><li>Highlight the expected results.&nbsp;</li><li>Describe the process for noting results (whether to take screenshots, record video, etc.)</li><li>Finally, state possible obstacles that may be encountered during the test. These hazards can be estimated reasonably accurately by experienced testers who understand the product end-to-end.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-test-charter-format-free-template"><span id="Test_Charter_Format_Free_Template">Test Charter Format (Free Template)</span></h2>



<p>At a high level, every test charter should include the following variables:</p>



<ul><li><strong>Name</strong>: The charter name should describe the test in question. For example, “Profile creation for new users on &lt;application name&gt; or “Testing review mechanisms (leaving comments, star or number reviews)”.<br><br>The idea is to describe the purpose of the test charter upfront so that anyone else viewing this document immediately knows its purpose and content.<br><br>“Quick attacks around profile creation” or “Test multi-user comments, permissions, and race conditions within and out of group membership.”<br></li><li><strong>Test area:</strong> Mention and describe the feature to be tested. Additionally, describe the test harness used in the session.<br></li><li><strong>Date and time</strong>: Mention the date and time of the test’s starting.<br></li><li><strong>Tester’s Name</strong>: Self-explanatory.<br></li><li><strong>Task Breakdown:</strong> The tester describes, as an overview, the direction of the test and steps to be taken within the session.<br></li><li><strong>Duration</strong>: How long will the test take or is expected to take?<br></li><li><strong>Test Design &amp; Execution</strong>: This section should comprise information about how the actual test is conducted, and what steps the tester actually took. This can be filled in detail after the test is completed (since exploratory tests are unplanned).<br><br>Simply describe the actions taken during the test. Don’t forget to include the observations gathered during said test.<br></li><li><strong>Bug reports</strong>: Describe the bugs found, the nature of each, at what point in the test they showed up, and what anomalies are showing up with each bug and steps to reproduce them. This would largely be information about bugs captured through screen recording, screenshots, text logs, etc.<br><br>For convenience’s sake, number or name each bug.<br></li><li><strong>Session setup</strong>: Detail the tools, test data, and test environment to be prepped before the test begins.<br></li><li><strong>Charter vs. Opportunity</strong>: This is the &amp; of time the tester spends on the expected system features as opposed to unexpected parts of the system under test.&nbsp;<br></li><li><strong>Expected Results</strong>: What is the test expected to achieve? What are the ideal results?<br></li><li><strong>Actual Results</strong>: Self-explanatory.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<p><strong>Here is the link to  a downloadable charter: </strong><a href="https://www.tmap.net/sites/tmap/files/2019-08/Template%20Exploratory%20testing%20charter%20Simple%20v1.docx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow"><strong>https://www.tmap.net/sites/tmap/files/2019-08/Template%20Exploratory%20testing%20charter%20Simple%20v1.docx</strong></a><strong> </strong></p>



<h2 id="h-conclusion"><span id="Conclusion">Conclusion</span></h2>



<p>Test charters turn exploratory tests into a science and art. They provide direction without hampering creativity, so testers and projects get the best of both worlds. They are essential to rein in the unplanned nature of exploratory testing, and thus keep them on track (there is a real danger of the tester getting lost in exploring features beyond immediate requirements).&nbsp;</p>



<p>Use this article to create your first test charter. As you keep building more tests and corresponding charters, it will become simpler to predict and understand the needs of the team, customers, and other stakeholders. Consequently, creating mature, targeted test charters will be a simple task.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-questions"><span id="Frequently_Asked_Questions">Frequently Asked Questions</span></h2>



<h3 id="h-what-is-an-exploratory-test-charter"><span id="What_is_an_exploratory_test_charter">What is an exploratory test charter?</span></h3>



<p>An exploratory test charter is a document that details all the parameters, goals, and plans governing an exploratory test session. It mentions and discusses the feature under test, the premise/query, the required tool, possible risks, data dependencies, and expected results as well as deadlines.</p>


What is a Test Charter Why Use It & How to Write One