What is Exploratory Testing in Software Testing Overview

What is Exploratory Testing? Meaning and Examples

We are thrilled to announce the launch of API testing capabilities in Testsigma’s low-code, test automation platform. With this new addition, Testsigma’s customers can now automate APIs along with web, mobile, and desktop applications without the coding expertise that would otherwise be required while using traditional test automation frameworks and solutions.



At Testsigma, everything we build is to democratize software testing. We believe software testing should be a function of curiosity and an empathetic understanding of the user behavior, and not a function of coding knowledge. Plus, we strongly believe that the software testing org should be viewed as the enabler for quality software and amazing customer experience and not a gatekeeper. <gwmw style="display:none;">



Most of our customers have replaced multiple tools and frameworks with Testsigma’s unified platform for their test automation needs. And one feedback we kept receiving was for the need for API testing capabilities. As we began our research over the last few months, we recognized that automated API testing relies on a broken toolchain. After talking to hundreds of QA leaders across the world, the need was clear &#8211; QA leaders needed a solution that would simplify the API testing process and make it more accessible to QA teams.&nbsp;



We built this, as we build everything &#8211; to simplify testing and to make it easier for even non-technical users to create and maintain automated standalone and integrated API tests. Our new interface eliminates the need for multiple tools and scripting knowledge, making it easier than ever to test APIs.



<h2 id="h-a-new-api-testing-experience-without-the-code">A new API testing experience—without the code</h2> 



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 <ol><li>Simplify API Test Creation: The low-code test editor in Testsigma makes it easy to create API tests without needing any coding expertise. Simply enter the endpoint, choose your API method, add your header content, set your status code, and run the test. </li></ol>



<ol start="2"><li>Test Different API Methods: Testsigma allows you to validate APIs using different REST API methods (GET, PUT, POST, DELETE, PATCH), providing comprehensive coverage of your APIs.</li></ol>



<ol start="3"><li>Validate API Responses in Real-Time: Create API test assertions without writing any script by specifying the expected response of the API. Testsigma will compare the actual response with the expected response to determine the status of the test.</li></ol>



<ol start="4"><li>Create Data-Driven API Tests: Create data-driven API tests from multiple data sources, such as XLS, CSV, and databases, saving time and effort. Plus, you can save and reuse test parameters as data profiles and test multiple data sets without making script changes manually.&nbsp;</li></ol>



<ol start="5"><li>Seamless CI/CD Integration: Testsigma integrates seamlessly with your development and delivery toolchain, making it easy to test your APIs as part of your deployment pipeline, ensuring that your APIs are always tested.</li></ol>



<ol start="6"><li>Achieve Higher Test Coverage: Integrate API tests along with your Web/Mobile UI tests to validate whether they are working together as expected. Get insights into the coverage and functionality of both GUI and API tests, helping you to identify any issues early in the cycle and fix them quickly.</li></ol> 



To learn how you can automate your API tests 10x faster with Testsigma, visit our <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-api-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">API Test Automation</a> product page.



You can also book a free demo of Testsigma&#8217;s API testing capabilities <a href="https://testsigma.com/request-demo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.

We are changing the way quality teams do API testing-forever.

We are changing the way quality teams do API testing—forever.

A Complete GUI Testing Checklist With Examples

<blockquote class="wp-block-quote has-text-align-center" id="testsigma-has-made-a-mark-in-g2-spring-2023-report">Testsigma has made a mark in G2 Spring 2023 report!</blockquote>



We are proud to announce that Testsigma has been recognized as a <a href="https://www.g2.com/products/testsigma/reviews">High Performer in the Grid® Report for Automation Testing</a> and Software Testing categories. G2 acknowledges Testsigma as having high Customer Satisfaction that includes an average rating of more than 90% in Quality of Support, Ease of Use, and Meeting Customer Requirements. This is an amazing feat for Testsigma as ranking was based on direct feedback from our customers, among various other parameters.



Testsigma also secured the High Performer rank in Asia Business Grid®, Asia Pacific Regional Grid®, and Small-Business Grid® reports.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#G2_and_its_High_Performer_Award_nbsp">1 G2 and its High Performer Award &nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="#What_Makes_Testsigma_a_G2_High_Performer_nbsp">2 What Makes Testsigma a G2 High Performer? &nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="#What_Customers_Said_About_Testsigma_nbsp">3 What Customers Said About Testsigma? &nbsp;</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-g2-and-its-high-performer-award">G2 and its High Performer Award &nbsp;</h2>



G2 is a popular peer-to-peer review website and one of the most renowned marketplaces for software that releases review reports every three months. The report assesses software companies based on various parameters, including customer ratings, reviews, and scores given by verified G2 users.&nbsp;&nbsp;



The High Performer badge in G2 is awarded to enterprises that receive high customer satisfaction ratings from the reviewers in the respective category.&nbsp;&nbsp;



We are honored by the trust that all of our customers placed in us. It is a testimony to Testsigma’s increasing impact in making the life of fellow testers easier, which helps them drive value for their work. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our customers. Without your support, this achievement would not have been possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 id="what-makes-testsigma-a-g2-high-performer">What Makes Testsigma a G2 High Performer? &nbsp;</h2>



Ease of Use: Testsigma stands high in customer satisfaction ratings, with all our users saying that the tool is easy to use and navigate. Our customers trust us with good partnership and ease of administration.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



Customer Satisfaction: With no-code automation and ease of use, Testsigma shines in the customer satisfaction category with quality customer support.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Implementation: Testsigma supports cloud and on-premises deployment for all automation testing needs.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Market Presence: We are a rapidly growing company that is seeing high traction of organic customers with good user retention.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<h2 id="what-customers-said-about-testsigma">What Customers Said About Testsigma? &nbsp;</h2>



Our users brand us as a ‘one-stop solution for a different platform,’ ‘easy to use,’ ‘user-friendly,’ and ‘the ultimate test automation tool.’&nbsp;&nbsp;



Here’s what our users said about Testsigma:&nbsp;&nbsp;



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">&#8220;Testsigma so far fulfills most of the requirements of our team at Fairprice.&#8221;</blockquote>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">&#8220;Excellent tool for automation&#8221; &nbsp;</blockquote>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">&#8220;Testsigma is an excellent automation tool for rapid automation and reliable test results.&#8221; &nbsp;</blockquote>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">&#8220;Easily and understandable tool to web automatization&#8221; &nbsp;</blockquote>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">&#8220;Powerful, tester-friendly open-source platform&#8221; &nbsp;</blockquote>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">&#8220;It is easy to use, less coding can use for most regressing testing and sanity testing.&#8221; &nbsp;</blockquote>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">&#8220;Great all-in-one solution for QA teams to start on Test Automation&#8221; &nbsp;</blockquote>



If you’re looking to transition to no-code test automation and simplify your testing efforts, we would love to help you out. Book a free <a href="https://testsigma.com/request-demo">demo</a> with us today, and see how Testsigma makes testing effortless.

Testsigma Ranked as a High Performer in G2 Spring 2023 Automation Testing Report

Automated GUI Testing – What , When , Approaches & Benefits

In this blog post, we&#8217;ll explain what mobile accessibility testing is and provide a simple example to help you understand the process. Make sure you go for the right tool and accomplish the testing.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_Mobile_Accessibility_Testing">1 What is Mobile Accessibility Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#Why_is_Mobile_Accessibility_Testing_Important">2 Why is Mobile Accessibility Testing Important?</a></li><li><a href="#Need_for_Mobile_Accessibility_Testing">3 Need for Mobile Accessibility Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Tools_for_Mobile_Accessibility_Testing">4 Tools for Mobile Accessibility Testing</a><ul><li><a href="#For_iOS">4.1 For iOS</a><ul><li><a href="#For_Android">4.1.1 For Android</a></li></ul></li></ul></li><li><a href="#5Step_Checklist_to_achieve_Mobile_App_Accessibility">5 5–Step Checklist to achieve Mobile App Accessibility</a></li><li><a href="#How_To_Test_Mobile_App_Accessibility_Using_Testigma">6 How To Test Mobile App Accessibility Using Testigma?</a></li><li><a href="#Summary">7 Summary</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-mobile-accessibility-testing">What is Mobile Accessibility Testing?</h2>



Mobile accessibility testing ensures mobile apps and websites are accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes various visual, auditory, cognitive, and physical disabilities. The goal of mobile accessibility testing is to guarantee that all users, regardless of their abilities or limitations, can access and use the features and content on these platforms comfortably and effectively.



Read more &#8211; <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/accessibility-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Accessibility Testing</a>



<h2 id="h-why-is-mobile-accessibility-testing-important">Why is Mobile Accessibility Testing Important?</h2>



Mobile accessibility testing is necessary because it ensures mobile applications are accessible to users with disabilities. Inclusive design is essential for creating an environment where everyone can participate equally. It is the responsibility of developers and testers to make sure that mobile applications are accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities.



<h2 id="h-need-for-mobile-accessibility-testing">Need for Mobile Accessibility Testing</h2>



Have you ever visited a website or used an app you couldn&#8217;t access properly? Maybe the text needed to be bigger, or the colors needed to be brighter, making it difficult to read. Here comes



<ol><li>It helps ensure that websites, applications, and digital products are usable by all people. This includes those with disabilities such as visual, hearing, and cognitive impairments.</li><li>It is essential for meeting legal requirements such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Check here &#8211; <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/ada-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ADA Testing</a></li><li>This testing can help reduce the risk of lawsuits related to discrimination against people with disabilities.</li><li>It can help increase the overall usability of digital products, resulting in better user experiences and increased customer satisfaction.</li><li>This testing helps ensure digital products are accessible to users with diverse needs, such as those using assistive technologies or devices.</li><li>It can help organizations meet their goals of providing inclusive digital products and services.</li><li>It helps identify usability issues that may not be apparent to users without disabilities. This includes too tiny text or navigation elements that are difficult to access.</li><li>Incorporating mobile accessibility testing into an organization&#8217;s digital product development process can yield significant cost savings over time.</li><li>Mobile accessibility testing can help organizations improve their reputation and public perception.</li></ol>



Read more &#8211; <a href="https://testsigma.com/tools/accessibility-testing-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Accessibility Testing Tools</a>



<h2 id="h-tools-for-mobile-accessibility-testing">Tools for Mobile Accessibility Testing</h2>



Mobile accessibility testing tools play a significant role in ensuring that mobile products are accessible and usable for everyone, including those with visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments. When it comes to testing the accessibility of mobile apps for iOS, several tools can help.



<h3 id="h-for-ios">For iOS</h3>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img loading="lazy" src="https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/blog-assets-production.testsigma.com/blogs/wp-content/uploads/migrated_images/image_f2984fc1a957d3f4de1546ee8dad7ce8_2000.png_1748949131.png" alt="Mobile Accessibility Testing Tool For iOS" width="600" height="400"/></figure></div>



<ol><li>VoiceOver: As a tester, one of the critical considerations during mobile accessibility testing is the mobile application&#8217;s compatibility with screen readers, such as VoiceOver. VoiceOver is a built-in screen reader for iOS devices that reads the screen&#8217;s content aloud. During testing, it is essential to ensure that the app is compatible with VoiceOver and provides auditory descriptions of on-screen elements, including buttons, icons, and text. The application should also enable users to navigate the app using gestures and voice commands. Testing VoiceOver compatibility is particularly important for users with visual impairments or those who prefer auditory feedback. VoiceOver allows these individuals to use iOS devices and applications effectively, and as testers, we need to ensure that our applications cater to such users. Considering the mobile application&#8217;s compatibility with VoiceOver during our testing process, we can make our applications more accessible to a wider range of users. It can help us deliver a more inclusive and accommodating user experience and ensure that our applications conform to the standards of mobile app accessibility.</li><li>The Zoom feature: This feature of mobile devices allows low-vision users to increase the size of on-screen elements to make the content more legible and easier to see. During testing, it is essential to test the mobile application&#8217;s compatibility with the Zoom feature and ensure that all application elements can be zoomed in and out without any issues. To support zooming, the app should have resizable text, buttons, and other on-screen elements. We should also ensure that the Zoom feature does not adversely affect the application&#8217;s functionality. All links, buttons, and interactive elements should remain easy to click or touch, and all essential information should remain visible even when zoomed in.</li><li>Accessibility Inspector: Testers use the Accessibility Inspector to verify that all visual elements, such as buttons, icons, and graphics, have labels that screen readers can read aloud. We can also use it to check the application&#8217;s color contrast ratio and verify that resizable fonts are used to ensure an enjoyable experience for low-vision users. Using the Accessibility Inspector, we can analyze the flow of the application, visualize the accessibility hierarchy, and check if the app is accessible to assistive technologies, such as screen readers and voice recognition software. We can use the data collected through Accessibility Inspector to provide feedback to the developers to make necessary adjustments to optimize the app&#8217;s accessibility. We can also test the application again to confirm its compliance with mobile app accessibility standards and ensure it is usable and accessible to many users. Therefore, as testers, we should be proficient with tools like Accessibility Inspector to help ensure that mobile applications meet accessibility standards and are accessible to all users equally.</li><li>Testers can also employ third-party software like A11YTools: A11YTools can help testers identify accessibility issues like color contrast, navigation flow, and labels. The tool can also generate a report that highlights any accessibility issues it finds, making it easier for testers to identify and fix the issues.</li><li>ColorSlurp By using tools like ColorSlurp, testers can ensure that the mobile app is designed with accessibility in mind. We can perform color contrast analysis on various app elements such as text, icons, and other graphics to ensure that they stand out and that the content is legible for all users regardless of their visual abilities.</li></ol>



The following are the tools for Android devices. Some famous names in this category include



<h4 id="h-for-android">For Android</h4>



<ol><li><a href="https://support.google.com/accessibility/android/answer/6376570?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google Accessibility Scanner</a>: This tool developed by Google scans Android applications. It helps testers identify areas that may be challenging for users with disabilities to navigate. During testing, we can use this tool to scan the mobile application. We can also flag any accessibility issues that may be identified. With this feedback, we can further analyze and make specific changes to the application to improve its overall accessibility.</li><li>TalkBack: TalkBack reads the screen text and describes the application&#8217;s user interface to users with visual disabilities. During testing, we can enable TalkBack in the accessibility settings of the device and use it to navigate through the app using gestures, such as swiping and tapping. Thus, testers can use it to simulate the experience of visually impaired users and gain valuable insights into aspects of the application that may be challenging for such users.</li></ol>



With mobile accessibility testing, a tester aims to ensure that all members of the targeted user base have equal access to the mobile application. This is aimed at promoting inclusivity and optimizing the overall user experience.



<h2 id="h-5-step-checklist-to-achieve-mobile-app-accessibility">5–Step Checklist to achieve Mobile App Accessibility</h2>



Do you know Section 508? Section 508 is a law that makes sure people with disabilities have equal access to information. This means that websites, documents, and other electronic content must be designed to accommodate people with disabilities too.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img loading="lazy" src="https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/blog-assets-production.testsigma.com/blogs/wp-content/uploads/migrated_images/image_18ed8e8b5dd0159e2d39866499df44f9_2000.png_1748949134.png" alt="5–Step Checklist to achieve Mobile App Accessibility" width="600" height="400"/></figure></div>



Here is the five-step checklist explained in detail:



<ol><li>Design for Accessibility: Design with accessibility in mind from the start of the design process. Use high-contrast colors and clear fonts, and avoid using images or icons that may be unclear or confusing to users with different abilities. For example: Suppose we are designing a mobile application for a restaurant. From the onset, we should design the app with accessibility in mind. We should consider using high-contrast colors with clear fonts to enhance readability, especially for visually impaired users. For instance, the primary color for the mobile app&#8217;s font could be a black or similar contrasting color, with white or off-white as the background color. This would ensure that the text is easily readable and that the images or photos used do not conflict with the readability of the text.</li><li>Use Descriptive Text: Use descriptive text to label elements on your app, such as buttons and images. This will ensure that screen readers and other assistive technologies can understand and communicate the information to visually impaired users. For example, you have a log in button on your app&#8217;s home screen. To make it accessible to visually impaired users, you would add descriptive text to the button&#8217;s label. Instead of labeling the button simply as &#8220;Login,&#8221; you might label it as &#8220;Login to your account.&#8221; This provides additional context for the user, which can help them understand what the button does and how it is relevant to their needs. Using descriptive text to label elements on your app ensures that all users can access important information, regardless of their visual abilities.</li><li>Include Alternate Text for Images: Provide alternate text for images to ensure that users with visual impairments can understand what the image represents. This is for Screen readers and other assistive technologies who can read this information. For example, Let&#8217;s say you have an app that includes an image of a product on a product description page. If a visually impaired user visits the page using a screen reader, they won&#8217;t be able to see the image. Instead, the screen reader will read the alternate text you provided for the image. In this case, you might provide the alternate text &#8220;Product image &#8211; blue t-shirt&#8221; for the image. This tells the user that the image shows a blue t-shirt, the product they want. To add alternate text to an image, you can typically do so in your app development platform&#8217;s image properties or settings menu. Providing accurate and descriptive alternate text for images is important, as this information can help visually impaired users understand your app&#8217;s content and features. Doing so can make your app more inclusive and available to all users.</li><li>Test with Assistive Technologies: This will ensure all users can access and operate the app. It will help you identify areas requiring improvement and make adjustments before launch. Here is an example to explain: Let&#8217;s say you&#8217;ve developed a new app for a fitness tracking service. You&#8217;ve added accessibility features such as labeled buttons and alternate text for images, but you&#8217;re not sure how well the app will perform with assistive technologies. To test the app with assistive technologies, you might use a screen reader or voice recognition software to simulate the experience of a visually impaired or mobility-impaired user. For example, you might use the VoiceOver screen reader on an iPhone to navigate the app and listen to how it reads out the different features and options. During testing, you might identify areas where the app could be improved for accessibility. You might find that specific images are not read out correctly by the screen reader or that certain buttons are not labeled enough. By testing the app with assistive technologies, you can make important improvements that will ensure the app is fully functional and accessible to all users. This can ultimately lead to a better user experience.</li></ol>



With the above-detailed checklist, you can ensure your mobile app is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. It will also ensure everyone has equal access to your mobile app.



Check here &#8211; <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/how-big-is-the-global-accessibility-testing-market-and-how-fast-is-it-growing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Global Accessibility Testing Market</a>



<h2 id="how-to-test-mobile-app-accessibility-using-testigma">How To Test Mobile App Accessibility Using Testigma?</h2>



<a href="https://testsigma.com/">Testsigma</a> is a cloud-based, codeless, GenAI-powered test automation platform that allows you to run automated tests for web, API, mobile, SAP, desktop, and Salesforce applications on the same platform. It allows testers to create and run automated tests without requiring any coding expertise.&nbsp;



Ensure your Android and iOS apps comply with WCAG guidelines &#8211; <a href="https://testsigma.com/signup">Start Testing</a>



With Testsigma, you can automate various use cases, including accessibility testing for your web and mobile apps (Android and iOS). This allows business teams to check if their web and mobile applications comply with the W3C accessibility guidelines.&nbsp;



No setup is required, and no coding is required. Testsigma makes <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-accessibility-testing">automated accessibility testing</a> simple with a single click by just enabling a button while creating the test plan.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="1600" height="832" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/blog-assets-production.testsigma.com/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11153106/unnamed-10-6.png" alt="" class="wp-image-59323" srcset="https://s3.amazonaws.com/blog-assets-production.testsigma.com/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11153106/unnamed-10-6.png 1600w, https://s3.amazonaws.com/blog-assets-production.testsigma.com/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11153106/unnamed-10-6-768x399.png 768w, https://s3.amazonaws.com/blog-assets-production.testsigma.com/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/11153106/unnamed-10-6-1536x799.png 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px" /></figure>



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



So, to summarize, mobile accessibility testing is all about checking if mobile apps are accessible for people with disabilities. Luckily, we&#8217;ve got tools to help us. These tools can help developers and testers find out if there are any accessibility problems in mobile apps. There are five things to remember when designing an accessible app:



<ul><li>Make sure it&#8217;s easy for everyone,</li><li>Use descriptive text,</li><li>Add alternate text for images,</li><li>Make sure it works well with a keyboard, and</li><li>Test it with assistive technologies.</li></ul>



If we follow these steps, we can create mobile apps that are inclusive and accessible to everyone, no matter what their abilities are.



Check here &#8211; <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-accessibility-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Automated Accessibility Testing</a>

Mobile Accessibility Testing All That You Need to Know in Depth

Mobile Accessibility Testing: All That You Need to Know

Hello there, I hope you are doing well! Welcome back to another interesting blog. 



I was watching one of the NAS daily videos with my five-year-old recently. It was about a few Japanese facts. People are incredibly humble and kind. They also appear to emphasize respect for others. This piqued my curiosity to study Japanese culture further. 



Then I got to know about a book called “<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/40534545" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life</a>&#8216;. Reading that book was one of the life-changing experiences of my life. Yes, I enjoyed reading that book and suggested to a few of my friends and family members to read this book too. 



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter is-resized"></figure></div>



However, my research on Japanese concepts continued. I discovered a wealth of fascinating facts and knowledge about Japanese culture. Finally, it appears that they have much to teach us.



Let&#8217;s study some Japanese phrases and the thoughts behind them in this blog. Also, how is this beneficial to software testers, and why should we have a good understanding of it.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_Are_Japanese_Concepts">1 What Are Japanese Concepts?</a></li><li><a href="#Japanese_Concepts_for_Software_Testers">2 Japanese Concepts for Software Testers:</a></li><li><a href="#To_conclude">3 To conclude:</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-are-japanese-concepts">What Are Japanese Concepts?</h2>



Japanese culture has had a long history of emphasizing excellence and appreciation of detail. Japanese concepts are ideas, values, and beliefs that are important in Japanese culture. Some examples include respect for elders, the importance of hard work, and the idea of harmony between people and nature. 



These concepts help to shape the way people in Japan live their lives. Many of the concepts and philosophies developed in Japan, such as Kaizen and Kanban, have become popular in the software industry. But to my surprise, there are many more overlooked concepts that will enrich your life and help you be a better software tester.



<h2 id="japanese-concepts-for-software-testers">Japanese Concepts for Software Testers:</h2>



Software Testers play an essential role in ensuring the quality of software applications. Let’s see in detail the Japanese concepts which can help us to elevate the testing process:



<p id="kaizen-it-s-an-approach-to-continuously-improve-processes-products-and-services-on-small-incremental-levels-a-philosophy-of-continuous-improvement-focused-on-small-incremental-adjustments-over-time-to-improve-quality">1. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaizen" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kaizen</a>: It’s an approach to continuously improve processes, products, and services on small incremental levels. A philosophy of continuous improvement focused on small incremental adjustments over time to improve quality. 



In the world of software testing, Kaizen is an important concept that testers should be familiar with. Kaizen, which literally translates to “change for the better”,  emphasizes small incremental changes over drastic reform, which can help ensure that any changes made are manageable and effective. Kaizen requires that everyone involved in a project take responsibility for their actions and ensure that processes are continually improved. 



It is a flexible system that allows for changes to be implemented quickly and efficiently, as problems are identified and solutions are put forward. This makes it the ideal methodology for software testing, as testers need to be able to quickly identify and debug any issues that arise during Test execution.



2. Kanban: Kanban is a popular method for managing tasks and processes. It is a system that utilizes visual cards to track progress and prioritize tasks. The cards are placed on a board and visually represent tasks to be done. A process commonly used among software testers, emphasizes doing only the necessary tasks in order to reach the goal. Using visual signals to identify and stimulate process improvement during software testing &#8211; a Kanban system describes, visualizes, and manages the production process. 



Here’s an example of how kanban works: Say you’re working on a marketing project for a client. As part of the project, you need to arrange social media posts, develop content, design sales brochures, and book webinars. You use sticky notes and put them on a Kanban board. The labels on the notes will be: “To-Do”, “In Progress” and “Done”. 



You start by labeling the first note “To-Do”. You need to arrange the social media posts so you write “Arrange Social Media Posts”. You then write the other tasks on other notes and label them “To-Do” as well. As you begin working on the tasks, you move them to the “In Progress” label. Once they are done, you move them to the “Done” label. 



The Kanban board lets you easily see which tasks you have done, which tasks are in progress, and which tasks still need to be done. By visually tracking tasks, it allows you to focus on the tasks that still need to be done. 



 In the world of software testing, there are a variety of concepts and principles that are essential to know in order to do one’s job effectively. Kanban is a powerful tool that can help software testers stay organized and efficient, leading to better results. Kanban works by breaking down tasks and resources into distinct stages, allowing software testers to easily identify bottlenecks and plan ahead for upcoming work.



3. Genchi Genbutsu: It’s a Japanese phrase meaning &#8220;go and see&#8221; that encourages software testers to observe and learn about the end-user experience. A notion that promotes traveling to the real location to obtain knowledge to make a more informed decision. Going to the source to gain a deeper understanding of a process, product, or anything related by directly observing and questioning. 



 It is a core part of the Toyota Production System (TPS) and is a central principle of the company&#8217;s philosophy. The lean manufacturing philosophy behind Genchi Genbutsu is that management should be thorough in their investigations, always going to the source of any customer or production issue to not just physically observe but also learn the underlying causes. For example, a customer is complaining about the application&#8217;s slowness. They try to replicate the user scenario (location, OS/device, user profile) and try to understand more about the root cause. Armed with this data, the project team will then be in a much stronger position to diagnose the issue and prevent it from happening in the future.



4. Shikata Ga Nai:  &#8220;Shikata ga nai,&#8221; or &#8220;Sho ga nai,&#8221; is a Japanese phrase that means “it cannot be helped” or “it is what it is” and nothing can be done about it, accepting that there are certain situations and circumstances that are out of our control. It’s the art of letting it go. Sometimes after strenuous effort, things won’t work the way we wanted them to. For example, if you have worked hard for a production release, and something goes wrong in production, there are multiple reasons for that &#8211; not just insufficient test coverage. So, start work on the bugs and test the fixes. Also, make sure to add those scenarios to the regression test case suite. In a nutshell, instead of thinking about it, work on the action items and just let it go.



5. Kata: Kata is a Japanese word that means &#8220;form&#8221; or &#8220;pattern&#8221;. It is often used to describe specific sequences of exercises used to teach martial arts techniques, such as Shotokan karate. A structured sequence of steps and actions used to practice and teach a skill. Every event will follow a specific pattern and we should implement this skill while studying the application behavior or debugging a defect. Getting to know the pattern can help you gain a deeper understanding of the application behavior.



6. Jidoka: Jidoka is an automated quality control technique pioneered by Sakichi Toyoda of the Toyota Corporation in the early 20th century. It is used to identify and correct defects in a process or product before it is sent to a customer. Jidoka teaches machines and people to detect problems and take appropriate action. Automation with a Human Touch that focuses on preventing defects versus a quick discovery and repair. For example, A manufacturer of widgets is using a jidoka system in their production process. Every time a widget is made, its form and function are assessed. If the widget fails these tests, the machine will shut down and alert a human operator. The operator can then investigate the issue and correct it before any further widgets are produced. This ensures that each widget meets quality standards and prevents bad widgets from being shipped to customers. Similarly, we develop the product prototype and then we develop in sprints, which can help us to ensure that we are on track with the product features.



7. Jishuken: A competitive method of testing in which two tester teams are pitted against one another to improve and refine ideas or processes. Jishuken is a Japanese management style focusing on self-improvement and small, steady improvements in the form of Kaizen. It utilizes a team-based approach to problem-solving, incorporating small incremental changes in improvement processes. Jishuken revolves around a process of continuous improvement and self-reflection, conducted within a team and supported by leaders, to identify areas of improvement and develop strategies to address the issues identified. The concept puts forth the idea that a team can accomplish more when each individual gives up his own opinion to reach a common goal.



8. Muda: Muda is a Japanese business term for “waste”. It is derived from the Lean manufacturing production system and refers to any activity that does not directly add value to the product or service. A concept used for process testing and efficiency; identifying and eliminating unnecessary steps in order to improve the overall process. Waste or any activity that doesn’t add value to the product or service. In the entire Software Testing life cycle, we have to identify the waste and try to eliminate it. This saves a lot of our time and effort. 



9. Poka-Yoke: Poka-Yoke is an approach to mistake-proofing (inadvertent error prevention) processes, products, and services to ensure the end user gets the expected and correct outcome the first time. The purpose of Poka-Yoke is to develop processes to reduce defects by avoiding or correcting (designed to show alerts or warning messages to the user) mistakes in the early design and development phases. 



 This technique is mostly used in manufacturing industries but now this effective technique is also adapted to software development processes as well. We focus more on <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/how-does-testsigma-support-the-shift-left-approach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shift left</a> defects and back-end testing to reduce the effort, cost, and time. One simple example could include placing a sticky warning label right next to a hazard sign to draw attention to it, or having a different color key for each type of tool so an operator can easily identify the correct key. In Software Testing, we can implement this and focus more on error-prevention techniques in the early phases of testing.



10. Hansei: The Japanese concept of Hansei is a process of reflection and self-criticism used to improve one’s self. The term translates to “self-reflection” and refers to a reflective process that focuses on challenging one’s own beliefs and opening up to alternatives. Through Hansei, individuals can gain insight into how to solve their present challenges and identify areas of improvement. A concept of personal reflection after completing a task meant to improve future projects. Our retrospective meetings are a great example of the Hansei.



11. Ishikawa Diagram: An Ishikawa diagram, also known as a fishbone, cause-and-effect diagram, or Carter diagram, is a business tool used to identify, analyze, and prevent errors and defects in a process. The Ishikawa diagram is a graphical representation of various causes for an event that can help identify and categorize potential causes. It&#8217;s an organized way to look at an event, breaking down the individual components that cause it.



For example, a software project that is facing delays might look something like this:



Head of Fish (Problem Statement): Delays in Software Project



Bones:



&#8211; People: Unskilled staff, incompatible skills with the task, lack of coordination



&#8211; Process/Systems: Poor planning, resource mismanagement, lack of documentation



&#8211; Materials: Inadequate budget, poor quality



&#8211; Environment: Poor environment, External dependencies



Once the potential causes have been identified, the team can organize and prioritize potential solutions. This helps the team to quickly and efficiently identify the root cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to remedy it.



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 <h2 id="to-conclude">To conclude:</h2>



Isn’t it way too interesting? I enjoyed learning about these Japanese concepts and found that in a way we are already using many of them in our processes and daily work. Not only technical, but sometimes we need to rethink our whole way of doing things. It’s a holistic process of mind, body, and soul. 



I strongly believe everyone has something to teach us and we can learn from everyone. Same way, we can learn from people with different cultural backgrounds and that’s why inclusive teams are the best-performing ones. 



Hope you enjoyed reading this blog. The list is so big, so stay tuned for the next blog to know more about a few other interesting concepts. please let us know what your favorite Japanese concept is and what makes you feel so. 



PC:<a href="http://Freepik.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Freepik.com</a>



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