Buddy Testing | What it is, Why & How to Do?

The best way to ensure your code is bug-free is to have your buddy test it, right?

Buddy testing, or peer testing, is a software testing technique in which two individuals work together to test a software application. This approach has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous benefits.

Don’t read this blog alone; drag your buddy along and hop on the ride to read!🤩

Together, we will explore the concept of buddy testing in more detail, discuss its advantages and disadvantages, and provide tips on implementing it successfully.

Let’s go!

What is Buddy Testing?

Buddy testing is like having a second pair of eyes on your code. It’s a great way to catch bugs you might miss alone.

In my view, when two people (i.e., developer & tester or two testers) work together closely on 

• the same module, 
• actively sharing ideas and
•  jointly identifying defects and bugs within the application

they ensure the quality of the product. This increases the efficiency rate of the work and even less time conception.

This approach has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its 

• numerous benefits, 
• improved collaboration, 
• efficiency, and
• effectiveness in finding defects. 

Buddy testing is now being used in various new and innovative ways. 

For example, some teams use buddy testing to test artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) systems.

Did you know that buddy testing can help to improve the morale of software testing teams? 

By working together and sharing ideas, buddy testers can feel more connected to their work and each other.

Importance of Buddy Testing

Buddy testing is essential because it can help improve software product quality. 

By working together, buddy testers can identify more defects, reduce the risk of errors, and improve the overall efficiency of the testing process.

• Improved collaboration and communication: Buddy testing fosters a collaborative environment where testers and developers can share ideas, learn from each other, and identify defects more effectively.

• Increased efficiency and effectiveness: Buddy testing can reduce the time and resources required for testing while also improving the overall quality of the testing process.

• Enhanced defect detection: By combining their perspectives and expertise, buddy testers are more likely to find defects that would otherwise be missed.

• Improved software quality: By identifying and addressing defects early on, buddy testing can help ensure that the final software product is high quality.

• Code deployed to a new environment: Buddy testing is a good way to test code before it is deployed to a new environment, such as production.

Sometimes, pairing up works, and sometimes, we are tied up with the wrong buddies. In the next section, we will read about when and when not to perform this buddy testing.

When TO perform Buddy Testing?

Buddy testing can be performed at any stage of the software development lifecycle, but it is most commonly performed during integration and system testing. 

• Buddy testing is particularly beneficial for 
  1. testing complex or critical functionality, 
  2. new or unfamiliar code, and 
  3. code modified by multiple developers. 

Buddy testing can be a very effective way for new testers to learn the testing process and gain experience with different software products and technologies.

When NOT to use Buddy testing?

There are times when buddy testing might not go right! Please do not do this testing during circumstances like:

1. Team members are optional if the product should undergo automation testing. 
2. We can not do this test if there is a mismatch in the character or attitude of the two team members who do the testing. Pair testing should be avoided to prevent potential conflicts. 
3. In cases where only structured test cases are available, a single tester will be sufficient.

Buddy Testing Process

The steps involved in buddy testing:

1. Identify the primary tester and the buddy tester:

The primary tester is typically an experienced tester with a strong understanding of the software or system being tested. In contrast, the buddy tester may be a less professional or a subject matter expert with knowledge of the domain being tested.

2. Define the scope and objective:

The primary tester and the buddy tester should agree on the scope and objectives of the testing, including the certain features or functionality that will be tested and the expected results. This will help to make sure that the testing is focused and efficient.

3. Plan the testing:

The primary tester and the buddy tester should develop a testing plan of specific test cases and test scenarios that will be executed. As well as the resources and tools needed to complete the testing. This will help ensure the testing is complete and all relevant areas are covered.

4. Execute the testing:

The primary tester performs the testing while the buddy tester observes and provides assistance. The buddy tester may also document defects and issues identified during the testing. This collaborative approach can help to identify weaknesses and enhance the overall grade of the testing. 

5. Review and debrief:

After the testing, the primary and buddy tester should review the results and debrief to discuss any issues or challenges. This will support identifying improvement areas and ensure the testing process is continually refined. 

How to do Buddy Testing in Testsigma?

Buddy Testing is not possible directly in Testsigma but it does support review workflow which enables another tester to review the work done by the tester.

Let’s see how the review feature works in Testsigma:

Login to your Testsigma account before you get started.

First, you must enable the review management feature from the settings module. 

The picture below explains it.

For example, let us say Tester 1 sends his testcase for review to Tester 2. It looks like the following image.

After submitting for review, here’s an example of how the dashboard for Tester 1 will look.

After receiving a test case for review, this is how the Tester 2 dashboard will appear.

This is how Tester 2 can review and mark a test case as done.

I also have a workflow video in the link below to understand the process better.

Benefits of Buddy Testing

Major benefits are: 

• Improved quality: Buddy testing can help improve software product quality by identifying more defects and reducing the risk of errors. This is because two testers are more likely to find defects than one tester and can also help verify each other’s work.

• Increased efficiency: Buddy testing can help increase the testing process’s efficiency. This is because two testers can work together to divide and conquer the testing workload. They can also help each other to learn and improve their testing skills.

• Enhanced collaboration and communication: Buddy testing can enhance collaboration and communication between testers. Testers must work together to plan and execute the testing process. They must also communicate effectively to share their findings and resolve any disagreements.

• Improved morale and motivation: Buddy testing boosts confidence and motivation by providing support, camaraderie, and opportunities for learning and career growth.

Limitations of Buddy Testing

While buddy testing has many benefits, it is also important to know its limitations. The limitations include:

• Increased cost: Buddy testing can increase the cost of testing, as it requires two testers to be involved.

• Reduced focus: If the two testers are well-matched, they may focus on the testing process.

• Increased time commitment: Buddy testing can require a greater time commitment from testers, who must work together to plan and execute the testing process.

• Increased reliance on another person: Buddy testing can increase reliance on another person, as the two testers must work together to be successful. If one tester is unavailable or unable to participate in the testing process, it can delay or disrupt the testing schedule.

Conclusion

Buddy testing is a collaborative software testing technique that offers many benefits, including improved defect detection, reduced testing time, improved communication and collaboration, and enhanced team morale. 

If you want to improve the quality of your software testing process, buddy testing is a great option.

Related read: https://testsigma.com/blog/adhoc-testing/ 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between buddy testing and pair testing?

Buddy testing involves pairing an individual from the development team with someone from the testing team, fostering cross-functional collaboration. 

On the other hand, pair testing involves two quality assurance (QA) professionals with varying levels of expertise, promoting knowledge sharing and diverse perspectives.

What is the meaning of the Buddy method?

The Buddy method is also known as buddy testing. This method aims to improve testing quality by providing a support system and knowledge-sharing opportunities between testers.