As a software product tester, you must understand the fundamental difference between verification vs validation testing. While these terms may sound the same, they have distinct meanings. They also play unique roles in the software development process.



Generally, verification testing helps ensure the software meets the specified requirements and standards. In contrast, validation testing ensures that the software meets the needs and expectations of the end users.



To help you understand each better, let&#8217;s delve deeper into the difference between verification and validation testing. I’ll also explain why they are critical to any software project&#8217;s quality and success.



Whether you are a manual tester, automation engineer, or C-level executive, this verification vs validation testing comparison will provide you with valuable insights into the world of <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">software testing</a>.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img loading="lazy" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-m--0DTEB_QZ_pYPZpIzm-1cSkxUxXqjJHbWqwDGcPInIX744gGdUFALZ6do8lzd083MgA-aDaM7sU5hTII-n40Pp7T6g3QGcndY3d7MUn1bp9_Rnb7Y2NNb5Y0ZMZUczfbhJ5kF3jyWa8f_kg6rBQ" alt="Verification Vs Validation " width="600" height="400" /></figure></div>



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_Is_Verification_Testing">1 What Is Verification Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#What_Is_Validation_Testing">2 What Is Validation Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#Purpose_of_Verification_and_Validation">3 Purpose of Verification and Validation</a></li><li><a href="#How_are_Verification_and_Validation_Testing_Performed">4 How are Verification and Validation Testing Performed?</a></li><li><a href="#Tips_for_Successful_Verification_and_Validation">5 Tips for Successful Verification and Validation</a></li><li><a href="#Difference_Between_Verification_vs_Validation_Testing">6 Difference Between Verification vs Validation Testing</a></li><li><a href="#A_Good_Understanding_of_Verification_vs_Validation_in_Testing">7 A Good Understanding of Verification vs Validation in Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Verification_vs_Validation_Testing_and_Automation">8 Verification vs Validation Testing and Automation</a></li><li><a href="#Popular_Test_Automation_Tools_For_Verification_and_Validation">9 Popular Test Automation Tools For Verification and Validation</a></li><li><a href="#FAQs_About_Verification_Vs_Validation_in_Testing">10 FAQs About Verification Vs Validation in Testing</a><ul><li><a href="#1_What_is_the_VV_model_in_software_testing">10.1 1. What is the V&amp;V model in software testing?</a></li><li><a href="#2_What_is_an_example_of_verification_and_validation_in_software_testing">10.2 2. What is an example of verification and validation in software testing?</a></li><li><a href="#3_What_are_the_types_of_validation">10.3 3. What are the types of validation?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-verification-testing">What Is Verification Testing?</h2>



Verification testing is a process used in software development to ensure two things. One is that a product or system meets its specified requirements. Another is that the product or system adheres to the design and development standards.



Overall, it confirms that the software or product being developed meets the intended purpose and works as intended.



The verification process is typically performed throughout the software development cycle. It involves various testing techniques and tools. These tests ensure that each component of the software functions correctly and meets the expected requirements.



<h2 id="h-what-is-validation-testing">What Is Validation Testing?</h2>



Validation testing involves various testing techniques and tools designed to simulate real-world scenarios. Then, you compare the results to the requirements and specifications. It will ensure that the software meets all necessary criteria.



Any defects or issues identified during validation testing are addressed. The software also gets retested until it meets all requirements. 



Read here &#8211; <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/validation-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Validation Testing</a>



<h2 id="purpose-of-verification-and-validation">Purpose of Verification and Validation</h2>



So, the whole point of Verification &amp; Validation is to ensure that the product meets all the customer&#8217;s requirements.



&nbsp;Once we get the results, we can show that the product does what it&#8217;s supposed to do and satisfies the needs it was made for.



<h2 id="how-are-verification-and-validation-testing-performed">How are Verification and Validation Testing Performed?</h2>



The following are four commonly utilized methods for software quality assurance:&nbsp;



1. <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/peer-review-in-software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peer Reviews</a>: This involves sharing the software product with individuals and requesting them to review it. The reviewers can provide their observations regarding the product&#8217;s quality and contribute towards identifying any issues.&nbsp;



2. Assessments: A dedicated team inspects the software product and helps identify potential faults and critical areas that require attention.&nbsp;



3. Walkthrough: This method involves demonstrating the software to individuals free to ask questions and express their doubts. This approach can help identify potential issues and provide valuable feedback.&nbsp;



4. Desk&#8211;Checking: This is the process of reviewing a software&#8217;s source code. The development team typically desk-checks a program to ensure the algorithms and code function correctly.



<h2 id="tips-for-successful-verification-and-validation">Tips for Successful Verification and Validation</h2>



Here are some major tips you should consider:



1. Clearly define verification and validation objectives: Set specific goals for the verification and validation process to achieve the desired outcomes.



2. Use appropriate verification methods: Select suitable techniques such as inspections, testing, or simulations to assess the correctness and completeness of the system effectively.



3. Establish a thorough<a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-plan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> test plan</a>: Develop a detailed plan that outlines the scope, schedule, resources, and criteria for evaluating the system&#8217;s performance.



4. Conduct rigorous testing: Execute thorough tests to identify defects, errors, or inconsistencies in the system&#8217;s functionality and ensure it meets all specified requirements.



5. Involve stakeholders throughout the process: Engage relevant stakeholders to gather feedback, address concerns, and validate that the system meets their expectations.



6. Document and track results: Maintain precise records of all verification and validation activities performed, including any issues identified and their resolutions, to ensure traceability and accountability.



<h2 id="h-difference-between-verification-vs-validation-testing">Difference Between Verification vs Validation Testing</h2>



Now that you have enough information about both tests, let’s examine the fundamental difference between verification and validation testing.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Verification Testing</td><td>Validation Testing</td></tr><tr><td>Focuses on whether the software meets its specified requirements&nbsp;</td><td>Focuses on whether the software meets the needs of end-users&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Typically conducted during the development process</td><td>Typically conducted after the development process</td></tr><tr><td>Involves testing at the component, module, and system levels</td><td>Involves testing the software as a whole</td></tr><tr><td>Involves testing with sample data</td><td>Involves testing with real-world data</td></tr><tr><td>Designed to catch defects early in the development process</td><td>Designed to catch defects before release to end-users</td></tr><tr><td>Examples include <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/unit-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unit testing</a>, <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/integration-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">integration testing</a>, and <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/system-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">system testing</a></td><td>Examples include <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/uat-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">user acceptance testing</a>, alpha and <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/beta-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">beta testing</a>, and <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/compatibility-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">compatibility testing</a></td></tr><tr><td>Helps to ensure that the software is built correctly</td><td>Helps to ensure that the correct software is built</td></tr><tr><td>Helps to increase confidence in the software</td><td>Helps to increase user satisfaction</td></tr><tr><td>Improves the quality of the software</td><td>Reduces the risk of product recalls or legal issues</td></tr><tr><td>Can be automated or manual</td><td>Often involves <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/manual-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manual testing</a></td></tr><tr><td>Requires a good understanding of the software requirements and specifications</td><td>Requires a good understanding of end-user needs and expectations</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2 id="h-a-good-understanding-of-verification-vs-validation-in-testing">A Good Understanding of Verification vs Validation in Testing</h2>



While both verification testing and validation testing are important parts of the software development process, they focus on different aspects of the software.



Verification testing ensures that the software is built correctly and meets its specified requirements. On the other hand, validation testing ensures that the software meets the needs of end-users and is fit for its intended purpose.



Conducting both verification and validation in <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/principles-of-software-testing-2/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">software testing</a> helps ensure your developed product is high quality and meets the requirements and expectations.



<h2 id="h-verification-vs-validation-testing-and-automation">Verification vs Validation Testing and Automation</h2>



The integration of automation in both verification and validation testing offers numerous advantages. Automated tests can be executed consistently and repeatedly, reducing human error and accelerating the testing process.



It allows for the early identification of defects, leading to faster bug fixes and a more robust final product. Moreover, automation enables broader <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-coverage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test coverage</a>, as it becomes feasible to execute a large number of test cases in a short span of time.



<h2 id="h-popular-test-automation-tools-for-verification-and-validation">Popular Test Automation Tools For Verification and Validation</h2>



Testsigma



<a href="https://testsigma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma </a>is a no-code test automation tool that lets you automate your tests in simple English, with no need to learn to code. The best part is that it lets you automate your tests for web, mobile, APIs and desktop applications from the same place and that too 5x faster.&nbsp;



Testsigma is a complete cloud-based solution, thus you just need to create an account on Testsigma, and you can start automating your tests, executing them, generating reports for them and integrate them with you existing CI/CD pipelines.



<button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a style="color:#fff" href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Start automating your verification and validation tests with Testsigma</a></button>



Selenium



Selenium is a widely-used open-source automation framework for web applications. It provides a suite of tools and libraries for browser automation, allowing testers to write scripts in various programming languages such as Java, Python, or C#.



Selenium can simulate user interactions, perform actions like clicking buttons or entering text, and verify expected outcomes. It is commonly used for functional testing and regression testing of web applications.



Appium Appium is an open-source project and ecosystem of related software, designed to facilitate UI automation of many app platforms, including mobile (iOS, Android, Tizen), browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari), desktop (macOS, Windows), TV (Roku, tvOS, Android TV, Samsung), and more.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-faqs-about-verification-vs-validation-in-testing">FAQs About Verification Vs Validation in Testing</h2>



<h3 id="h-1-what-is-the-v-v-model-in-software-testing">1. What is the V&amp;V model in software testing?</h3>



The V&amp;V (Verification and Validation) model is a software testing model that involves both verification and validation activities throughout the software development lifecycle. It helps:



<ul><li>catch defects early in the development process,</li><li>reduce the risk of product recalls or legal issues,</li><li>and increase confidence in the software.</li></ul>



<h3 id="h-2-what-is-an-example-of-verification-and-validation-in-software-testing">2. What is an example of verification and validation in software testing?</h3>



An example of verification testing is unit testing. It checks whether individual components of the software meet their specifications. An example of validation testing is user acceptance testing. It tests whether the software meets end-users&#8217; needs.



<h3 id="h-3-what-are-the-types-of-validation">3. What are the types of validation?</h3>



Types of validation include



<ul><li>functional validation, which tests whether the software functions as intended;</li><li>performance validation, which tests whether the software meets performance requirements;</li><li>and security validation, which tests whether the software is secure and protected from unauthorized access.</li></ul>

Verification vs Validation Testing Key Differences 

Verification vs Validation Testing: Key Differences 

The importance of guaranteeing the quality and dependability of software systems cannot be overstated in the fast-paced world of software development.&nbsp;



Extensive testing is conducted to identify and rectify defects before they reach end-users. However, even with rigorous testing processes in place, some defects manage to remain undetected. These elusive defects, known as latent defects, can have a significant impact on software performance, user experience, and overall system integrity.&nbsp;



In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of latent defects in <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">software testing</a>, explore their implications, and provide examples to illustrate their significance.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_a_Latent_Defect_in_Software_Testing">1 What is a Latent Defect in Software Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#What_causes_latent_defects">2 What causes latent defects?</a></li><li><a href="#nbspSigns_of_Latent_Defect">3 &nbsp;Signs of Latent Defect</a></li><li><a href="#Latent_Defect_Example">4 Latent Defect Example</a></li><li><a href="#Test_Automation_to_catch_Latent_Defects">5 Test Automation to catch Latent Defects</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_Identify_Latent_Defects_Solving">6 How to Identify Latent Defects &amp; Solving ?</a></li><li><a href="#Latent_Defect_vs_Masked_Defect">7 Latent Defect vs Masked Defect</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">8 Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">9 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#1_What_is_the_difference_between_a_defect_and_a_latent_defect">9.1 1. What is the difference between a defect and a latent defect?</a></li><li><a href="#2nbsp_What_is_an_example_of_a_latent_and_patent_defect">9.2 2.&nbsp; What is an example of a latent and patent defect</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-a-latent-defect-in-software-testing">What is a Latent Defect in Software Testing?</h2>



Latent defects, also referred to as hidden defects or dormant defects, are flaws within software systems that go unnoticed during the testing phase but surface later in the operational or production environment. These defects remain latent or dormant until specific conditions trigger their occurrence, leading to unexpected behavior, system failures, or suboptimal performance.



Latent defects can be introduced during any phase of the software development life cycle (SDLC), including requirements gathering, design, coding, or even in the testing phase itself. They often arise due to the complexity of software systems, incomplete test coverage, inadequate test scenarios, or limitations in the testing process. Latent defects can lie dormant for a significant period, making them challenging to identify and rectify.



<h2 id="h-what-causes-latent-defects">What causes latent defects?</h2>



Latent defects can be caused by various factors throughout the software development life cycle. Here are some common causes:



<ul><li>Incomplete or Inaccurate Requirements: Latent defects can emerge if the initial requirements gathering phase is not thorough or if there are ambiguities or gaps in the requirements documentation. Misinterpretation or omission of critical requirements can lead to latent defects that remain undetected until later stages.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Inadequate <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-coverage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test Coverage</a>: When the testing process does not cover all possible scenarios and edge cases, latent defects may go unnoticed. Limited test coverage can result from time constraints, resource limitations, or insufficient test case design. If specific test scenarios are overlooked, latent defects related to those scenarios may surface in the operational environment.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Insufficient Testing Techniques: The effectiveness of testing techniques used during the software testing phase can impact the detection of latent defects. If the testing team relies solely on functional testing and neglects techniques such as boundary value analysis, <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/equivalence-partitioning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">equivalence partitioning</a>, or stress testing, latent defects may remain hidden until specific conditions trigger their manifestation.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Environmental Differences: Latent defects can occur when the testing environment differs significantly from the production environment. This could include variations in hardware, software versions, network configurations, or data sets. Differences in these environments may prevent the identification of defects that are only triggered by specific environmental conditions.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Complex Interactions and Dependencies: Modern software systems often have complex architectures with numerous components and dependencies. Latent defects can arise due to unforeseen interactions between these components, leading to unexpected behavior or failures. It can be challenging to anticipate and test all possible combinations and interactions, especially in large-scale systems.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Human Error: Latent defects can also result from human error during the development or testing process. Mistakes in coding, incorrect implementation of requirements, or oversight during test case creation can introduce latent defects that go unnoticed until later stages.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Limited Time and Resources: Pressure to meet deadlines and resource constraints can impact the thoroughness of testing activities. When testing is rushed or given limited resources, the chances of latent defects escaping detection increase.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-signs-of-latent-defect">&nbsp;Signs of Latent Defect</h2>



Identifying latent defects can be challenging since they remain hidden during the testing phase. However, there are certain signs or indicators that may suggest the presence of latent defects. Here are some common signs to watch out for:



<ul><li>Unexpected System Behavior</li><li>Performance Issues</li><li>Data Inconsistencies</li><li>Uncovered Edge Cases</li><li>User Feedback or Bug Reports</li><li>System Failure or Outages</li><li>Difficulty in Reproducing Issues</li></ul>



By actively monitoring and analyzing system behavior, user feedback, and reported issues, software development teams can improve their chances of uncovering latent defects and implementing necessary fixes to enhance the system&#8217;s stability and performance.



<h2 id="h-latent-defect-example">Latent Defect Example</h2>



Let&#8217;s consider a hypothetical example to better understand latent defects. Imagine a software application used for online banking, where users can transfer funds between accounts. During the testing phase, the testing team successfully conducts various test scenarios, including transferring funds from one account to another within the same bank. All tests pass, and the software is deemed ready for deployment.



However, once the application is live, users begin reporting an issue when attempting to transfer funds to accounts in different banks. The application fails to process these transactions correctly, leading to financial discrepancies. Upon investigation, it is discovered that the testing team did not include test cases covering interbank fund transfers, resulting in an overlooked latent defect.



In this scenario, the latent defect remained dormant until specific conditions were met (interbank transactions), triggering its manifestation. The defect&#8217;s impact on the application&#8217;s functionality was not initially apparent during testing, but it significantly affected the system&#8217;s overall performance and user experience in the production environment.



<h2 id="h-test-automation-to-catch-latent-defects">Test Automation to catch Latent Defects</h2>



<a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test automation</a> can play a crucial role in catching latent defects by augmenting the testing process and increasing the chances of defect detection. Here are some ways test automation can help in identifying latent defects:



<ul><li>Improved Test Coverage: Test automation allows for the creation and execution of a larger number of test cases compared to manual testing. Automated tests can cover a wide range of scenarios, including edge cases and complex interactions, which increases the chances of identifying latent defects that may only surface under specific conditions.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Regression Testing: <a href="https://testsigma.com/regression-testing/automated-regression-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Automated regression testing</a> helps ensure that previously resolved defects or changes in the codebase have not reintroduced any latent defects. By automating the execution of regression test suites, software development teams can quickly identify any regression-related latent defects that may have been inadvertently introduced during development or maintenance activities.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Consistency and Reproducibility: Automated tests provide consistency and reproducibility, eliminating human error and ensuring that test scenarios are executed in a standardized manner. This allows for better comparison and analysis of test results, making it easier to spot unexpected behavior or inconsistencies that may indicate latent defects.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Execution of Large Data Sets: Automated tests can efficiently handle large data sets and perform data-driven testing. By automating the generation and execution of test cases with various data inputs, it becomes possible to test a broader range of scenarios and identify potential latent defects related to data handling, calculation, or processing.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Stress and Performance Testing: Test automation can facilitate stress testing and performance testing by simulating a high load on the system. By automating the generation of concurrent requests, varying data volumes, or complex workload scenarios, potential performance-related latent defects can be uncovered, such as memory leaks, bottlenecks, or resource limitations.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Continuous Integration and Continuous Testing: Choose test automation tools that integrate seamlessly with your <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuous_integration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">continuous integration</a> (CI) and <a href="https://testsigma.com/continuous-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">continuous testing </a>(CT) pipelines. Automated tests can be triggered automatically with each code commit, ensuring that any latent defects introduced during development are identified early on. This allows for faster feedback loops and quicker remediation of defects.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Monitoring and Alerting: Test automation can be combined with monitoring tools to detect and alert on unexpected system behavior or performance degradation in the production environment. By automating the monitoring and analysis of system metrics, logs, or user feedback, latent defects that arise in the operational environment can be identified promptly.</li></ul>



 <button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Automate your tests for web, mobile, desktop and APIs, for better and earlier detection of latent defects, with Testsigma</a></button> 



<h2 id="h-how-to-identify-latent-defects-solving">How to Identify Latent Defects &amp; Solving ?</h2>



Here&#8217;s a table summarizing how to identify and solve latent defects through a combination of manual and automated testing:



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td></td><td>Identifying Latent Defects</td><td>Solving Latent Defects</td></tr><tr><td>Manual Testing</td><td>1. Thorough Requirements Analysis: Analyze requirements documentation for clarity and completeness. 2. Exploratory Testing: Perform unscripted testing to uncover hidden defects. 3. User Acceptance Testing (UAT): Involve end-users to capture real-world scenarios and gather feedback. 4. Error Analysis: Analyze user feedback, bug reports, and system logs for patterns and anomalies.</td><td>1. Debugging and Code Review: Investigate and debug issues to identify the root cause of defects. 2. Code Refactoring: Improve code quality through restructuring and optimization. 3. Documentation Enhancement: Update documentation to accurately reflect requirements and implementation details. 4. Retesting: Verify the effectiveness of fixes through retesting.</td></tr><tr><td>Automated Testing</td><td>1. Test Coverage Analysis: Use code coverage tools to identify areas with limited test coverage. 2. Automated Regression Testing: Automate regression test suites to catch regression-related latent defects. 3. Data-Driven Testing: Automate tests with various data inputs to uncover latent defects related to data handling or processing 4. Performance Testing: Automate performance tests to identify latent defects related to system scalability and performance under stress.5. Continuous Integration (CI) and Continuous Testing (CT): Incorporate automated tests into CI/CT pipelines to catch latent defects early.</td><td>1. Automated Test Maintenance: Update and maintain automated tests to align with changes in requirements or the codebase. 2. Test Script Enhancement: Improve test scripts to cover additional edge cases and scenarios. 3. Test Failure Analysis: Analyze test failures to determine if they indicate latent defects or other issues. 4. Monitoring and Alerting: Automate system monitoring and analysis to detect potential latent defects in the production environment.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2 id="h-latent-defect-vs-masked-defect">Latent Defect vs Masked Defect</h2>



Here&#8217;s a table summarizing the key differences between latent defects and <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-masking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">masked defects</a>:



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td></td><td>Latent Defect</td><td>Masked Defect</td></tr><tr><td>Definition</td><td>A defect or flaw in software that remains hidden until it manifests in the operational environment or during system usage.</td><td>A defect that is concealed or masked by the presence of another defect, making it difficult to detect or isolate.</td></tr><tr><td>Visibility</td><td>Not immediately visible during the testing phase.</td><td>Present but concealed by another defect.</td></tr><tr><td>Cause</td><td>Incomplete testing, oversight, or insufficient test coverage during development and testing.</td><td>Overlapping or overshadowing symptoms or behaviors by another defect.</td></tr><tr><td>Detection Timing</td><td>Typically detected after software deployment or usage by end-users.</td><td>Requires careful analysis and investigation to identify and separate overlapping issues.</td></tr><tr><td>Isolation</td><td>Standalone issue that becomes evident once triggered.</td><td>Requires identifying and addressing the primary defect causing the masking effect.</td></tr><tr><td>Impact</td><td>Can impact software functionality or performance once triggered in the operational environment.</td><td>Can lead to overlooking or misdiagnosing a defect, potentially affecting software quality.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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



In conclusion, latent defects are a type of software defect that remain hidden or dormant during the testing phase but manifest themselves once the software is deployed or used by end-users. These defects can have a significant impact on the functionality, performance, and user experience of the software system.



Identifying latent defects requires thorough requirements analysis, exploratory testing, user acceptance testing, and error analysis. It is important to go beyond scripted test cases and actively explore different scenarios to uncover hidden defects that may not be immediately apparent.



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



<h3 id="h-1-what-is-the-difference-between-a-defect-and-a-latent-defect">1. What is the difference between a defect and a latent defect?</h3>



The difference between a defect and a latent defect lies in their visibility and timing of detection:



<ul><li>Defect: A defect, also known as a bug or an issue, is a flaw or error in the software that affects its functionality, performance, or behavior. It refers to a deviation from the expected or desired behavior of the software.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Latent Defect: A latent defect, on the other hand, is a specific type of defect that remains hidden or dormant during the testing phase but manifests itself later, often after the software is deployed or used by end-users.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<h3 id="h-2-what-is-an-example-of-a-latent-and-patent-defect">2.&nbsp; What is an example of a latent and patent defect</h3>



Here are examples of a latent defect and a patent defect:



<ul><li>Latent Defect Example:</li></ul>



Consider a software application used for financial calculations. During testing, all the defined test cases pass successfully, and the software is deemed ready for deployment. However, after deployment, it is discovered that under certain specific conditions, such as when the input values exceed a certain threshold, the calculations produce incorrect results. This issue was not detected during testing and remained latent until it manifested in the operational environment.



<ul><li>Patent Defect Example:</li></ul>



In contrast, a patent defect is a defect that is immediately apparent and can be detected during the testing phase. For example, imagine a web application where clicking on a particular button consistently leads to a crash or an error message. This defect is evident during testing as it disrupts the expected flow of the application and can be easily reproduced and observed by testers.

Latent Defect In Software Testing With Example

With the rapid growth of e-commerce, the payment gateway plays a critical role in ensuring seamless transactions between buyers and sellers. This blog post will delve deep into the test cases for testing payment gateways.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_Is_A_Payment_Gateway">1 What Is A Payment Gateway?</a></li><li><a href="#Types_of_Payment_Gateway_Systems">2 Types of Payment Gateway Systems</a><ul><li><a href="#Hosted_Payment_Gateway">2.1 Hosted Payment Gateway</a></li><li><a href="#Shared_Payment_Gateway">2.2 Shared Payment Gateway</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Payment_Gateway_Testing">3 Payment Gateway Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Payment_Gateway_Test_Cases_Example">4 Payment Gateway Test Cases Example</a></li><li><a href="#Payment_Gateway_Testing_Automated_and_Manual_8211_Examples">5 Payment Gateway Testing: Automated and Manual &#8211; Examples</a></li><li><a href="#Importance_of_Testing_Payment_Gateways">6 Importance of Testing Payment Gateways</a></li><li><a href="#Testing_Types_for_Payment_Domain">7 Testing Types for Payment Domain</a></li><li><a href="#Checklists_While_Preparing_Test_Cases_For_Payment_Gateway">8 Checklists While Preparing Test Cases For Payment Gateway</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_test_Payment_Gateway_Complete_Checklist">9 How to test Payment Gateway: Complete Checklist</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">10 Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">11 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#How_to_do_API_testing_of_the_payment_gateway">11.1 How to do API testing of the payment gateway?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_a_payment_gateway_example">11.2 What is a payment gateway example?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-a-payment-gateway">What Is A Payment Gateway?</h2>



So, you know when you buy stuff online and have to enter your bank details? Well, that&#8217;s where payment gateways come in! They&#8217;re like the middleman between you and the business you&#8217;re buying from. They make sure your payment info stays safe from sneaky hackers and fraudsters. Payment gateways connect your bank to the merchant&#8217;s bank so you can pay for stuff securely. It&#8217;s all about making sure your payments are safe and sound! Cool, isn&#8217;t it?



<h2 id="h-types-of-payment-gateway-systems">Types of Payment Gateway Systems</h2>



Listen up! You&#8217;ll need a payment gateway system if you&#8217;re trying to sell stuff online. It&#8217;s a safe way for customers to pay with credit or debit cards. The payment gateway makes sure everything goes smoothly between you and your customers. It&#8217;s like a bodyguard for your money and data during online transactions. Payment gateway systems protect customers from advanced attacks like <a href="https://www.identityguard.com/news/synthetic-identity-fraud" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">synthetic identity theft</a>, where someone can use their name and financial information to conduct transactions.



<h3 id="h-hosted-payment-gateway">Hosted Payment Gateway</h3>



Hosted Payment Gateway is a third-party provider that hosts a payment gateway. Here is a payment processing system that enables customers to make payments directly on the hosted website. The customer enters their card details on the provider&#8217;s secure website, and the gateway processes the payment.



<h3 id="h-shared-payment-gateway">Shared Payment Gateway</h3>



Have you ever heard of a Shared Payment Gateway? So, a Shared Payment Gateway is a cool system that lets a bunch of different merchants use the same payment gateway for their online sales. This is perfect for online marketplaces that sell stuff from different vendors. It saves them time and money because they don&#8217;t have to set up separate payment gateways for everyone. Plus, it&#8217;s easy for customers to buy things because they only have one checkout process. The best part is that it&#8217;s secure and keeps all merchants&#8217; customer data safe.



<h2 id="h-payment-gateway-testing">Payment Gateway Testing</h2>



Payment gateway testing is when we check if our online payment system works properly. We want to ensure that our customers can pay without issues and that their information is safe and secure. We also make sure that the payment system works smoothly with other web applications. Lastly, we check to see if we&#8217;re following all the rules and regulations related to online payments. If the payment gateway tests pass, our customers can pay easily and safely.



<h2 id="h-payment-gateway-test-cases-example">Payment Gateway Test Cases Example</h2>



Here are some example test cases for testing payment gateways:



<ol><li>Check if the payment gateway can connect with the bank systems.</li> <li>Ensure that the payment gateway allows users to enter their payment details securely.</li> <li>Verify that users can initiate payments using valid credentials.</li> <li>Validate if the payment gateway processes the payments accurately.</li> <li>Test that the payment gateway responds to invalid credentials correctly.</li> <li>Check if the payment gateway can capture payment details accurately.</li> <li>Confirm the payment gateway returns the correct response codes for successful and unsuccessful payments.</li> <li>Test the ability of the payment gateway to handle multiple simultaneous payments.</li> <li>Verify that the payment gateway is integrated properly with the merchant system.</li> <li>Ensure you do not store financial data after each payment processing session.</li></ol>



You must test and check the payment gateway regularly so it stays reliable and does its job right.



<h2 id="h-payment-gateway-testing-automated-and-manual-examples">Payment Gateway Testing: Automated and Manual &#8211; Examples</h2>



Let’s try to understand the manual and automated approaches better, with examples:



Manual Testing Example: Let&#8217;s say you are <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manual_testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manually testing</a> all the payment options; 



Test Case: Check if the search page is displayed correctly on desktop 



Test Steps: 



1. Launch the web browser.



2. Navigate to the application&#8217;s search page. 



3. Verify that the page elements (e.g., search bar, search button, search results) are displayed as expected.



4. Resize the browser window to check for content and layout consistency. 



5. Check that images and text look and display correctly.



6. Ensure the page is fully loaded with all content.



7. Close the browser.



Expected result: The search page displays correctly on the desktop, with all elements and content displaying correctly. No layout issues appear.



 <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Automated Testing</a> Example: Let&#8217;s say you want to automate one of the <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/what-is-test-case/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test case</a> to verify if all the payment options are displayed on the Payment Gateway page correctly. You can do that in <a href="https://testsigma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma </a>using our Web Automation feature. 



Steps: 1. Log in to Testsigma and select a project. Give the project a Name.



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://images.storychief.com/account_36412/image_50407a7f1b42a33a0cd6dd9a58451288_2000.png" alt=""/></figure>



2. Now you can Create a New Test case &#8211; Click the + symbol- Choose Test Case from the dropdown.



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3. In “Create Test Case” page, give the Name and URL(URL of the page you must test). I have used a Demo Page(Letzpay.com) in this example.



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4. Click on the Record Steps button and begin the process. The webpage you have chosen will appear in a new window.



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5. You can see the Test steps are created automatically with the necessary Elements when I continue purchasing.



Here, we have taken a Demo project of a website where I will show you to purchase via UPID. You can also choose Net banking or Cards.



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6. Here, for example, I chose to make my purchase using PhonePe. You can see the summary page too.



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7. Once I click the Pay button, the QR code appears for me to scan.



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://images.storychief.com/account_36412/image_3b73a75124212e5dcdd88ff4fadbe8bc_2000.jpeg" alt=""/></figure>



8. Here, for example, after I scan the code, the payment gets processed successfully. That&#8217;s it. Now you can run the test.



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://images.storychief.com/account_36412/image_4fa1807a442956035dadc77394f4913b_2000.png" alt=""/></figure>



9. Execute the Test. Here you can see the System requirements I have chosen to execute this test case.



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://images.storychief.com/account_36412/image_bd8cfeb52f4b09d780d7d472cbf1bfdb_2000.png" alt=""/></figure>



10. The Result- Once all the steps are executed, you can see the Test Passed.



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://images.storychief.com/account_36412/image_45b9b81774ceae82b34750db886a6a72_2000.png" alt=""/></figure>



Note: Export the results as XLS, or PDF



Now, the test case will either pass or fail based on the result of the element visibility assertion. The test case will display an appropriate message in case of a failure. 



This is just one example of Payment Gateway Testing that can be automated using Testsigma. Using Testsigma, the testers can create automated test cases, maintain their test suites and execute them with a single click. Testsigma is equipped with Mobile Device cloud and Desktop browsers to run the tests on different Operating Systems and Platforms.



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<h2 id="h-importance-of-testing-payment-gateways">Importance of Testing Payment Gateways</h2>



Testing Payment Gateways:



<ul><li>Ensures that transactions are processed accurately and securely.</li><li>It helps identify and resolve any technical issues or errors in the payment process.</li><li>Builds trust with customers by providing a seamless and reliable payment experience.</li><li>Protects against fraud and unauthorized transactions.</li><li>Helps businesses comply with industry regulations and standards for payment processing.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-testing-types-for-payment-domain">Testing Types for Payment Domain</h2>



As the payment domain covers various methods for financial transactions, it is important to understand the different types available. The most common types are:



Functional testing involves verifying that the payment system is working as intended. We ensure we process transactions correctly, accept payment methods, and appropriately handle errors or exceptions.



Security testing is necessary for any payment system. This type of testing involves identifying vulnerabilities in the system and ensuring that sensitive data is protected. It includes things like penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, and data encryption.



Performance testing ensures that the payment system can handle a high volume of transactions without slowing down or crashing. This involves stress testing, load testing, and capacity planning to ensure the system can handle peak usage times without issues.



Integration testing We need to perform <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/integration-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">integration testing</a> to ensure that the payment system integrates seamlessly with other systems, such as the website or mobile application.



Generally, thorough testing of the payment domain is essential to ensure a smooth and secure user experience for customers.



<h2 id="h-checklists-while-preparing-test-cases-for-payment-gateway">Checklists While Preparing Test Cases For Payment Gateway</h2>



When preparing test cases for a payment gateway, you must cover all possible scenarios to ensure the smooth functioning of the payment gateway.



<ol><li>Verify the payment gateway integration with the website or application.</li><li>Test payment methods like credit/debit cards, net banking, and digital wallets.</li><li>Ensure that the payment process is secure and encrypted to protect sensitive information.</li><li>Test for error handling scenarios such as incorrect card details or insufficient funds.</li><li>Verify that the transaction details are accurately recorded and displayed to the user after completion of the payment process.</li></ol>



<h2 id="h-how-to-test-payment-gateway-complete-checklist">How to test Payment Gateway: Complete Checklist</h2>



Let us keep our checklist simple and easy! Here you go.



<ol><li>Test the payment gateway integration with your website or application to ensure it functions properly.</li> <li>Verify that the payment gateway is compatible with all major web browsers and operating systems.</li> <li>Conduct a test transaction using different payment methods (credit card, debit card, PayPal, etc.) to ensure each method works correctly.</li> <li>Check for any errors or issues during the transaction process, such as timeouts or failed transactions.</li> <li>Test the refund process to ensure that it is working correctly and refunds are processed in a timely manner.</li> <li>Verify that the payment gateway is secure and meets industry data protection and encryption standards.</li> <li>Test the payment gateway&#8217;s reporting functionality to ensure you can access accurate transaction data and reports.</li> <li>Conduct load testing to ensure that the payment gateway can handle high volumes of transactions without any issues or slowdowns.</li> <li>Verify that customer support is available and responsive in case of any payment-related issues or questions.</li> <li>Ensure compliance, as it&#8217;s important to ensure that all payment processing is done in accordance with industry standards and regulations. This includes verifying the identity of customers, protecting their personal and financial information, and adhering to anti-money laundering laws.</li></ol>



Thats it! So, all these steps can help protect your business and customers from potential fraud and other risks.



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



Well, that&#8217;s a wrap on our guide to payment gateway testing! We hope you found it helpful and informative. As we&#8217;ve outlined, payment gateway testing is crucial to ensure a smooth and secure payment process for your customers. Remember, testing is an ongoing process, so be sure to regularly test and update your payment gateway to ensure it continues to meet your customers&#8217; needs. Happy testing!



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



<h3 id="h-how-to-do-api-testing-of-the-payment-gateway">How to do API testing of the payment gateway?</h3>



API testing of the payment gateway involves verifying that the API functions correctly and securely. This can be done by sending requests to the API and checking the responses for accuracy and consistency.



<h3 id="h-what-is-a-payment-gateway-example">What is a payment gateway example?</h3>



A payment gateway example is a service that authorizes payments for online merchants, allowing them to accept credit cards, electronic checks, and other customer payment methods. Examples of popular payment gateways include PayPal, Stripe, Apple Pay, Square, Amazon Pay, and Authorize.net.

Payment Gateway Test Cases A simplistic guide

Payment Gateway Test Cases: A simplistic guide

What is Specification Based Testing Technique in Software Testing

What is Specification Based Testing Technique in Software Testing?

Edge case testing is <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">software testing</a> that verifies whether a system can handle extreme or out-of-ordinary scenarios considered unlikely to occur in normal usage. It helps ensure the system is robust and reliable and can handle unexpected situations gracefully. This blog post will explain what it is and why it&#8217;s so important.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_are_edge_test_cases">1 What are edge test cases?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_an_edge_test_case_example">2 What is an edge test case example?</a></li><li><a href="#Why_are_edge_cases_important_to_consider">3 Why are edge cases important to consider?</a></li><li><a href="#Edge_case_testing_and_test_automation">4 Edge case testing and test automation</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_Find_Edge_Cases_in_Software_Testing">5 How to Find Edge Cases in Software Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_do_edge_case_testing">6 How to do edge case testing?</a></li><li><a href="#Why_do_edge_case_testing_before_release">7 Why do edge case testing before release?</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_prioritize_edge_cases">8 How to prioritize edge cases?</a></li><li><a href="#Tips_for_edge_case_testing_in_your_development">9 Tips for edge case testing in your development</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">10 Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">11 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_are_edge_and_corner_cases_in_testing">11.1 What are edge and corner cases in testing?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_the_difference_between_base_case_and_edge_case">11.2 What is the difference between base case and edge case?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-are-edge-test-cases">What are edge test cases?</h2>



Case testing, also known as edge case testing, is a form of software testing that focuses on testing for exceptional behavior or conditions found at the boundaries of a program or system. So these unusual or rare scenarios occur at expected input or behavior boundaries. They are often the result of incorrect assumptions about how the software will be used and can result in unexpected or incorrect responses from the system. Edge cases are important to consider in the development process to ensure that the system can handle a wide range of inputs while continuing to produce expected outputs.



So, you know those times when you close a video(reels) on Instagram, but the sound keeps playing in the background for a few seconds? That&#8217;s a classic example of an edge case!



<h2 id="h-what-is-an-edge-test-case-example">What is an edge test case example?</h2>



Let us look at a real-time example of an Edge case test case.



Scenario: Log in to a website



Test Data: Incorrect username or password when the &#8216;Log-in&#8217; button is pressed



Expected Result: The user should not be able to log in, and an error message should be displayed.



This example explains: this is a <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/what-is-test-case/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test case</a> designed to test the system&#8217;s response when incorrect username or password information is entered. The expected result of this test is that the user should not be able to log in. There will be an error message displayed. The tester can use this Edge Test Case to test the system&#8217;s functionality by entering any invalid input. This ensures the system is secure and the application provides the expected user experience.



<h2 id="h-why-are-edge-cases-important-to-consider">Why are edge cases important to consider?</h2>



If you want to know why edge cases are legit important, you must learn some cool facts first!



<ol><li>Edge cases can reveal flaws in a system or process that may not be apparent in typical scenarios. We can identify and address potential issues by considering edge cases before they become bigger problems.</li><li>Edge cases often represent real-world scenarios that may occur infrequently but still have significant consequences if not properly addressed. Considering these scenarios, we can ensure our systems and processes are robust enough to handle them.</li><li>Edge cases can also help us improve the user experience by identifying situations where users may encounter unexpected behavior or errors. Addressing these edge cases can make our systems more user-friendly and reduce user frustration.</li><li>Edge cases can seriously affect patient safety or financial stability in some industries, such as healthcare or finance. Viewing these scenarios, we can ensure that our systems and processes are designed to minimize risk and protect those who rely on them.</li></ol>



<h2 id="h-edge-case-testing-and-test-automation">Edge case testing and test automation</h2>



You should consider automating your edge case testing if you&#8217;re working with an application with a limited range of repeatable and controllable input values.



Test automation usually performs edge case testing to verify predetermined software outputs using automated tests. Automation testing ensures that a system meets the expected performance, quality, behavior, and configuration of the test case. Automated test scripts can detect problems that manual tests cannot identify. Teams often use <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">automated testing</a> to speed up test suites and to check edge cases on complex web applications and systems.



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<h2 id="h-how-to-find-edge-cases-in-software-testing">How to Find Edge Cases in Software Testing?</h2>



So, edge cases in software testing are scenarios outside the normal range of inputs and behaviors. They&#8217;re like the crazy outliers we must test for, just in case.



<ul><li>Sometimes, we must test things we did not expect or plan for. It&#8217;s like testing the quirky and rough things that could happen but probably won&#8217;t. You want to ensure the software can handle those roughest inputs and unexpected situations.</li><li>When testers have a lot of data to work with and think the tests might fail at the highest or lowest limits of the data, they use something called Boundary Value Analysis. This means we&#8217;re checking out the upper and lower limits of input data values because we reckon that&#8217;s where our test cases could go wrong. This technique works best when we&#8217;ve got a ton of test data.</li></ul>



Let&#8217;s say you&#8217;re testing a website that only allows for usernames with 6-12 characters. With boundary value analysis, you&#8217;d test the lower limit (6 characters), the exact limit (7 characters), and the upper limit (12 characters).



<ul><li>Next, there&#8217;s <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/equivalence-partitioning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Equivalence Partitioning</a>. This one&#8217;s about breaking up a huge dataset into smaller chunks. If we pass any random value from a chunk, we can assume that we have covered the chunk and don&#8217;t need to test everything in it separately.</li></ul>



Let&#8217;s say you&#8217;re testing a website that only allows usernames with alphanumeric characters. You could partition this into two equivalence classes: all alphabetic characters and all numerical characters. You can then test one value from each of the two classes to ensure the website accepts numbers and letters.



<ul><li>A team of testers can do edge case testing manually, or specialized tools can automate it.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-how-to-do-edge-case-testing">How to do edge case testing?</h2>



Edge case testing is an important part of software testing that involves testing the system&#8217;s extreme or boundary conditions, often overlooked during regular testing. This testing can be done both manual and automated ways.



The Manual Way:



<ul><li>Identify the edge cases: The first step is to identify the edge cases for your application. This can be done by analyzing the requirements and specifications of the system.</li><li>Create test cases: Once you have identified the edge cases, create test cases that cover these scenarios. You should include inputs at or beyond the limits of what is expected in these test cases.</li><li>Execute test cases: Execute each test case manually and observe how the system behaves under these conditions.</li><li>Record results: Record the results of each test case, including any issues or defects found during testing.</li></ul>



The Automated Way :



1. Identify potential edge cases: The first step is to identify the potential edge cases in the system. This can be done by analyzing the requirements, user stories, and use cases.



2. Develop test scenarios: Once the potential edge cases have been identified, the next step is to develop test scenarios that cover these cases. These scenarios should be designed to test the system&#8217;s behavior under extreme conditions.



3. Use automation tools: Automation tools such as <a href="https://testsigma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma</a>, Selenium, and Appium can automate the execution of these test scenarios. These tools can simulate user interactions with the system and verify its behavior under different conditions. 



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4. Analyze results: After executing the automated tests, it is important to analyze the results to identify any issues or defects that may have been uncovered. This analysis can help improve the system&#8217;s quality by identifying areas that need improvement or further testing.



<h2 id="h-why-do-edge-case-testing-before-release">Why do edge case testing before release?</h2>



You might wonder about this WHY question! I will explain why we do edge case testing before the release.



Before product release, edge case testing is important to check how the system behaves in extreme conditions. Unexpected behavior of a system can frustrate users and make them abandon the product. 



Edge case testing involves testing the system&#8217;s boundaries by entering values beyond normal use limits, such as providing an unusually large or negative input. This can identify and eliminate bugs or unexpected behavior in extreme use cases. Edge case testing can help provide customers with a smooth and seamless user experience.



<h2 id="h-how-to-prioritize-edge-cases">How to prioritize edge cases?</h2>



Prioritizing edge cases can be challenging because these are rare and unique scenarios. However, it is important to prioritize these cases as they can seriously impact the product&#8217;s user experience and overall functionality. One approach to prioritizing edge cases is considering their potential impact on user safety, legal compliance, and business goals. Also, gathering feedback from users and stakeholders can help identify which edge cases are most important to address.



<h2 id="h-tips-for-edge-case-testing-in-your-development">Tips for edge case testing in your development</h2>



Are you ready to grasp some tips to do this testing? Here you go:



1. Think from the perspective of your users &#8211; how would they use the app, what path would they follow, if they had to do something unexpected what would it be? 



2. Think of unlikely scenarios in terms of app usage and failures &#8211; like what if the battery died, what if a call came while app was being used, what if a notification came up.



3. Always have the mindset &#8211; if you can think it, the user can do it. So, never assume and always test for all possible user paths.



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



So, there you have it &#8211; by finding, prioritizing, and testing edge cases, you can improve the overall quality of your product and increase customer satisfaction. So, don&#8217;t overlook the edge cases &#8211; they might be the key to your product&#8217;s success!



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



<h3 id="h-what-are-edge-and-corner-cases-in-testing">What are edge and corner cases in testing?</h3>



Developers perform edge case tests at the application&#8217;s or software&#8217;s boundary values. They also perform corner case tests at the intersection of multiple boundary values of the application or software.



<h3 id="h-what-is-the-difference-between-base-case-and-edge-case">What is the difference between base case and edge case?</h3>



We use base cases as the basis for solving more complex cases. Base cases are the simplest and most fundamental cases of a problem. Edge cases are specific, unusual cases of a problem that will cause the algorithm or system to break.

What Is an Edge Case Testing How To Find and Prioritize

What Is an Edge Case Testing? How To Find and Prioritize

When it comes to ensuring the quality of software, testing is essential. The testing process can vary depending on the application type being developed and its purpose. One form of testing used in software development is known as screenshot Testing, also sometimes known as <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/visual-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Visual Testing</a>. 



Screenshot testing is a term used for testing that involves taking a screenshot of the application&#8217;s user interface (UI). By taking screenshots of different software versions, and comparing them, it becomes easy to identify the visual changes and determine whether they are fair. 



This guide discusses screenshot testing, how it works, and how to perform the process on different platforms.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_Screenshot_Testing">1 What is Screenshot Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#How_Does_Screenshot_Testing_Work">2 How Does Screenshot Testing Work?</a></li><li><a href="#Screenshot_Testing_with_Testsigma">3 Screenshot Testing with Testsigma</a></li><li><a href="#Advantages_of_Screenshot_Testing">4 Advantages of Screenshot Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Disadvantages_of_Screenshot_Testing">5 Disadvantages of Screenshot Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Tools_for_Performing_Screenshot_Testing">6 Tools for Performing Screenshot Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">7 Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">8 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_Screenshot_Testing_vs_UI_testing">8.1 What is Screenshot Testing vs. UI testing?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_Android_screenshot_testing">8.2 What is Android screenshot testing?</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_perform_Android_screenshot_testing">8.3 How to perform Android screenshot testing?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-screenshot-testing">What is Screenshot Testing?</h2>



In Screenshot testing, testers take screenshots of the application or website under test and compare them to the expected results. They can then identify discrepancies between the two and report them to developers for resolution. This process helps ensure the application or website meets design specifications and provides a positive user experience.



Screenshot testing is particularly useful when the UI of the application gets changed often. Screenshot testing can point out the smallest of differences from the expected results very quickly.



<h2 id="h-how-does-screenshot-testing-work">How Does Screenshot Testing Work?</h2>



You take screenshots of the website or app in different environments like browsers, resolutions, and operating systems. Following these steps ensures that your website or application functions optimally and provides a positive user experience.



Here are the steps:



Step 1: Choose a Screenshot Testing Tool



The first step is to choose a Screenshot testing tool that suits your needs. Many options are available in the market, such as Testsigma, Applitools, Percy, and Cypress. Each tool has its unique features and benefits.



Step 2: Define Test Scenarios 



Once you have selected a tool, the next step is to define test scenarios. This involves identifying your application&#8217;s different pages or screens that need to be tested. You can also define specific actions that users might take on these pages.



Step 3: Capture Screenshots



After defining test scenarios, you must capture screenshots of each page or screen using the screenshot testing tool. This can be done manually or automatically, depending on your tool. These screenshots become the baseline for your screenshot tests.



Step 4: Compare Screenshots



Once you have captured the screenshots, the next step is to compare them. By comparing the screenshots, you can ensure that the UI is consistent with the expectation. This will help you identify any visual bugs or inconsistencies that may have been introduced during development or changes made to the page. 



Step 5: Resolving the Issue



After identifying any visual bugs or inconsistencies, addressing them promptly is important. This may involve making changes to the code or design of the page. Once the necessary adjustments have been made, repeating the comparison process is recommended to ensure the issues have been resolved. Tools like Testsigma, Applitools, Percy, and BrowserStack can automate this process and make it way faster to compare multiple screenshots simultaneously. 



<button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Automate your visual tests, easily and efficiently, with Testsigma</a></button>



<h2 id="h-screenshot-testing-with-testsigma">Screenshot Testing with Testsigma</h2>



With Testsigma, you can perform Screenshot Testing for your web and mobile applications.



Screenshot Testing is default switched off for all test steps. Users have the freedom to turn it on only for the steps where they need visual validation.



1. How to Enable Screenshot Testing for a Test Step



The Screenshot testing can be configured for a test step on a test case details page or on a test step recorder. Below are the steps for doing the same:



<ol><li>Go to the step and click on step details.</li><li>Turn on the screenshot Testing for the step using the setting &#8220;Visual Testing&#8221;(Screenshot Testing)</li><li>Screenshot testing validation is now on for this test step.</li></ol>



Alternatively, below is a gif demonstrating the above steps:



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://d37oebn0w9ir6a.cloudfront.net/account_36412/gif-visual-testing-edit-teststep_bbb35d85a5575be00763335b8bcc4bfb.gif" alt="visual testing" /></figure>



After you enable “visual testing” for a test step &#8211; Screenshot Testing becomes available only after the next successful run. This is because, to execute Screenshot testing, Testsigma needs a baseline image corresponding to the test step.



2. Bulk Update Steps for Screenshot Testing



Testsigma supports bulk steps updates to turn on/off Screenshot testing to save time and reduce redundant efforts.



You can select all the steps in the test case you want and turn on/the screenshot testing settings on/off in one go.



Below is a gif demonstrating bulk updates for enabling screenshot testing for multiple steps at once:



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://d37oebn0w9ir6a.cloudfront.net/account_36412/gif-visual-testing-bulk-update-test-steps_653cb3d80cdc02db9eb8f235ac156f5d.gif" alt="screenshot testing" /></figure>



 <h2 id="h-advantages-of-screenshot-testing">Advantages of Screenshot Testing</h2>



Screenshot testing plays a vital role in ensuring the quality and accuracy of software applications. Here are some major advantages and disadvantages of this testing.



The advantages are:



<ol><li>Its primary benefit is to detect even the slightest differences in the graphical user interface between the expected and actual results.</li><li>Allows for fast testing to identify if there are major differences between expected and actual results.</li><li>It visually represents how the user will see the application and can detect UI-related errors.</li><li>Easy to use and set up compared to other <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">automated testing</a> methods.</li></ol>



<h2 id="h-disadvantages-of-screenshot-testing">Disadvantages of Screenshot Testing</h2>



The disadvantages are:



<ol><li>Not suitable for more complex applications with multiple user interactions, functionalities, and data sets.</li><li>It cannot detect logical defects in the application as it only captures what it is displaying.</li><li>It is a labor-intensive process as manual effort compares expected and actual results.</li></ol>



<h2 id="h-tools-for-performing-screenshot-testing">Tools for Performing Screenshot Testing</h2>



The must-to-know tools are here. Bookmark them:



1. Testsigma: <a href="https://testsigma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma </a>is a web-based test automation platform for automated screenshot testing. It enables developers and QA teams to create, run and manage <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">automated tests</a> for web, iOS, and Android applications. It also supports <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/visual-regression-tests/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">visual regression tests</a> for UI components.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://images.storychief.com/account_36412/image_91d3f999c6c9c9afb4ba379a195b8cc6_2000.png" alt="Testsigma screenshot" /></figure></div>



<button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Automate your visual tests for web, mobile and desktop applications, from the same place, with Testsigma</a></button>



2. Applitools Eyes: Applitools Eyes provides AI-driven visualization testing to compare web and mobile application interface images, detect visual UI differences, and report them as bugs. It is a cloud-based automated screenshot testing solution.



3. Kobiton: The cloud-based test automation platform, Kobiton, supports automated screenshot testing for Android and iOS applications. Kobiton offers access to real devices and browsers for testing, screenshot testing, and bug tracking.



4. Screenster: Developers can use Screenster, a cloud-based automated screenshot testing solution, to verify the accuracy of their web and mobile apps across browsers and devices. It records screenshots of each test run and allows developers to check for visual regression errors.



5. Percy: Percy is a visual testing platform designed to help QA teams identify visible changes in web and mobile applications. It uses screenshot data to compare images of the same page or element across different browsers, devices, and environments and provides feedback on any broken images or layout discrepancies.



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



Here comes the finale! Screenshot testing is a simple and effective way to help ensure integrity, reliability, and accuracy. By using this method, teams can save time and resources and provide an improved user experience. This makes it an invaluable tool for testing and development.



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



<h3 id="h-what-is-screenshot-testing-vs-ui-testing">What is Screenshot Testing vs. UI testing?</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Screenshot Testing</td><td>UI Testing</td></tr><tr><td>Screenshot testing is usually done via automated tests</td><td>UI testing can be automated or can be done manually</td></tr><tr><td>It helps to verify the look, feel, and UI consistency across different versions of the same application.</td><td>Tests the functioning of <a href="https://developer.adobe.com/commerce/frontend-core/ui-components/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UI components</a>, including buttons, checkboxes, and other elements.  </td></tr><tr><td>Less time is required to conduct this type of testing.</td><td>It takes more time to complete the tests.&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Low cost and low effort&nbsp;</td><td>High cost and effort</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h3 id="h-what-is-android-screenshot-testing">What is Android screenshot testing?</h3>



Android screenshot testing is a way to test the UI of an Android app. With screenshot testing, users can check that everything looks how it should on all device sizes and configurations, ensuring the user experience is consistent across different devices. It&#8217;s helpful for developers because they can quickly find and fix any visual bugs in their app.



<h3 id="h-how-to-perform-android-screenshot-testing">How to perform Android screenshot testing?</h3>



Android screenshot testing involves capturing screenshots of an app on different devices and comparing the visuals against a baseline to spot any differences. It helps ensure UI consistency across various Android platforms.

Screenshot Testing: A Detailed Guide!

SDLC vs STLC – Key Differences Explained

As its name suggests, gorilla testing differs from the monkey testing technique, and it’s advantageous for companies and product teams to understand and appreciate these differences. This blog will explore how gorilla testing differs from monkey testing and why it’s essential to quality assurance practices.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://images.storychief.com/account_36412/gorilla-testing_ea668820d8fa92e453798d5efd1779e8_2000.jpeg" alt="Gorilla Testing" /></figure></div>



 <div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_Gorilla_Testing">1 What is Gorilla Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#Features_of_Gorilla_Testing">2 Features of Gorilla Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Importance_of_Gorilla_Testing">3 Importance of Gorilla Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Monkey_Testing_vs_Gorilla_Testing_Usage">4 Monkey Testing vs. Gorilla Testing: Usage</a></li><li><a href="#Monkey_Testing_vs_Gorilla_Testing_A_Comparison">5 Monkey Testing vs. Gorilla Testing: A Comparison</a></li><li><a href="#Summary">6 Summary</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">7 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#Is_ad-hoc_testing_also_known_as_gorilla_testing">7.1 Is ad-hoc testing also known as gorilla testing?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-gorilla-testing">What is Gorilla Testing?</h2>



Gorilla Testing is a software testing method where all or most system areas are tested for a shorter time to identify significant issues quickly. This Testing is black-box testing focusing on a limited portion of an application, product, or system. 



The goal is to identify any major flaws or problems within that area before proceeding with more thorough Testing. It is usually conducted by a relatively small amount of testers, spending a relatively short testing effort, the goal being to find as many bugs as possible in the shortest time.



<h2 id="h-features-of-gorilla-testing">Features of Gorilla Testing</h2>



Here are some of the most important features of this testing:



<ul><li>A wide application testing with an emphasis on exploration and discovery.</li><li>Focused on user experience, functionality, and compatibility of the product.</li><li>Utilizes both positive and <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/negative-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">negative testing</a> scenarios to ensure the highest quality possible.</li><li>Covers areas like functionality, usability, compatibility, etc.</li><li>Highly flexible to allow for adjustment in test cases, depending on the product&#8217;s unique characteristics.</li><li>Identifies issues and bugs and offers detailed reports on the product&#8217;s performance.</li><li>Since gorilla testing focuses only on necessary features, it saves time and resources by avoiding unnecessarily testing non-critical features.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-importance-of-gorilla-testing">Importance of Gorilla Testing</h2>



The importance of Gorilla Testing cannot be overstated. Gorilla Testing helps developers and testers identify issues early in the software development process, saving time and money in the long run.



<ol><li>Gorilla testing helps identify critical defects that may have been missed during other testing phases.</li><li>It ensures the system can handle unexpected and extreme inputs or scenarios.</li><li>Gorilla testing helps improve the overall quality of the software by identifying issues early on in the development cycle.</li><li>It helps ensure the system is robust and can handle large amounts of data or traffic.</li><li>Gorilla testing can also help identify performance issues and bottlenecks in the system.</li><li>It helps build confidence in the software&#8217;s ability to perform under different conditions and scenarios.</li><li>Gorilla testing can also help uncover security exposures that may have been missed during other testing phases.</li></ol>



<h2 id="h-monkey-testing-vs-gorilla-testing-usage">Monkey Testing vs. Gorilla Testing: Usage</h2>



Let us discuss this in a super easy way:



<a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/monkey-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monkey Testing</a> is like randomly trying the software without special skills or training. You basically do whatever comes to mind, like clicking buttons, typing things, breaking stuff, and so on. The idea is to find any possible issues with how the software works, how user-friendly it is, and how secure it is.



On the other hand, you have Gorilla Testing. It&#8217;s pretty intense and needs some serious skills and knowledge. Basically, you&#8217;re purposely trying to mess up the software with a mix of know-how, system smarts, and lots of testing methods. The goal is to uncover sneaky bugs and problems the average user wouldn&#8217;t catch.



More details are in the table below:



<h2 id="h-monkey-testing-vs-gorilla-testing-a-comparison">Monkey Testing vs. Gorilla Testing: A Comparison</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Monkey Testing</td><td>Gorilla Testing</td></tr><tr><td>It is a type of testing that doesn&#8217;t require planning or knowledge of the system being tested.</td><td>Requires some basic prior knowledge of the system being tested and a test plan.</td></tr><tr><td>It is a software testing method that does not follow a defined test plan and instead relies on testers to try out the application randomly.&nbsp;</td><td>Its name implies it is a more intensive form of testing that involves longer and more resilient test cycles. It involves more protocols and test cases than monkey testing.</td></tr><tr><td>Intended to find basic issues.&nbsp;</td><td>Intended to find more complex issues and bugs that would normally require more focused testing.&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Testers are less skilled and often need to be supervised.&nbsp;</td><td>Testers are more skilled and closely supervised.&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Testing is conducted to locate bugs or broken features.&nbsp;</td><td>Testing is conducted to ensure that all user requirements are met.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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



To summarize, gorilla testing is all about looking at the bigger picture. It doesn&#8217;t involve testing individual parts but rather focuses on the overall functionality and stability of the system. Unlike Monkey Testing, which randomly tests small bits of code without much thought, Gorilla Testing takes a more structured and thorough approach. It ultimately leads to better system performance and fewer failures.



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



<h3 id="h-is-ad-hoc-testing-also-known-as-gorilla-testing">Is ad-hoc testing also known as gorilla testing?</h3>



Because <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ad_hoc_testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ad-hoc testing</a> and gorilla testing both involve sending random inputs and not following a set procedure, gorilla testing, and ad-hoc testing are sometimes considered similar.

Gorilla Testing How It Is Different from Monkey Testing

Gorilla Testing: How It Is Different from Monkey Testing

In simple terms, shift left refers to moving testing and quality assurance earlier in the development process, while shift right focuses on testing and monitoring after the software is released. In this blog post, we&#8217;ll break down the differences between Shift Left vs Shift Right and why they matter.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" src="https://testsigma.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/Shift-left-vs-Shift-right_in-article.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-31791" width="551" height="326" /></figure></div>



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_the_Difference_Between_Shift_Left_and_Shift_Right">1 What is the Difference Between Shift Left and Shift Right?</a></li><li><a href="#Test_Automation_Using_Shift_Left_and_Shift_Right">2 Test Automation Using Shift Left and Shift Right.</a></li><li><a href="#Shift_Left_vs_Shift_Right_8211_Tools_Used">3 Shift Left vs Shift Right &#8211; Tools Used </a></li><li><a href="#Shift_Left_vs_Shift_Right_8211_A_Summary">4 Shift Left vs Shift Right &#8211; A Summary.</a></li><li><a href="#Which_One_to_Choose_Shift_Left_or_Shift_Right_or_Both">5 Which One to Choose, Shift Left or Shift Right, or Both?</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">6 Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">7 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#Is_the_shift_left_positive_or_negative">7.1 Is the shift left positive or negative?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_an_example_of_shift_left_testing_and_shift_right_testing">7.2 What is an example of shift left testing and shift right testing?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-the-difference-between-shift-left-and-shift-right">What is the Difference Between Shift Left and Shift Right?</h2>



Let me explain you in simple terms.



<a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/how-does-testsigma-support-the-shift-left-approach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shift-left testing</a> starts testing earlier in the development cycle before the code is written. This type of testing narrows the gap between writing code and finding bugs. The goal of shift left testing is to find and fix bugs quickly and reduce the cost of fixing them. 



Shift-right testing is the testing process later in the development cycle after the product is deployed. This type of testing focuses on verifying functionality and usability and finding and resolving customer-reported issues. Shift-right testing aims to improve the user experience and ensure the product is bug-free before releasing updates.



<h2 id="h-test-automation-using-shift-left-and-shift-right">Test Automation Using Shift Left and Shift Right.</h2>



Use of test automation when you shift your testing left, or right depends on the state of your application and the state of your testing. When shifting your testing left, <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test automation</a> would help if you have tests executed repeatedly or very complex tests that would give better results upon automation. The same applies to shifting your testing right. Automating your tests for shift right makes better sense as, at this time, the application is fully developed and is expected to be more stable.



Let&#8217;s discuss the tools that can be used for automating your shift left tests and shift right tests.



<h2 id="h-shift-left-vs-shift-right-tools-used">Shift Left vs Shift Right &#8211; Tools Used </h2>



Shift-Left Testing Tools:



<ul><li>Testsigma: <a href="https://testsigma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma</a> is an AI-powered automation testing tool that supports the Shift Left approach. The benefit of using Testsigma is it allows you to write test cases right from the design phase. So, whether your features are conclusive or not — you can start working on your testing approach even without the availability of the application or software. You can always add test steps without element details and fill them up later when the details are available. Testsigma, a codeless tool, is very easy and efficient for test creation. This helps you speed up your testing process many times.</li></ul>



<button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Shift your test automation left with Testsigma</a></button>



<ul><li>TestLeft: As the name suggests, SmartBear’s TestLift is specifically made for Shift Left testing. With this tool, you can start testing right from the design phase; as soon as the UI features are ready, you can automate your tests.</li><li>JUnit: A unit testing framework developers use to write and run repeatable tests.</li></ul>



Shift-Right Testing Tools:



<ul><li>Testsigma: Testsigma can also automate shift-right tests for efficient and effective test automation and execution. </li></ul>



<button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Shift your test automation right, with efficiency, with Testsigma</a></button> 



<ul><li>Appium: Similarly, appium, an open-source <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-automation-frameworks/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test automation framework</a> for <a href="https://testsigma.com/mobile-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">testing mobile apps</a> can be used to automate your shift-rest tests.</li><li>Selenium: Selenium is a powerful open-source framework used for automating web browsers. This helps you automate your <a href="https://devops.com/shift-right-testing-the-emergence-of-testops/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">shift right tests</a> for web applications</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-shift-left-vs-shift-right-a-summary">Shift Left vs Shift Right &#8211; A Summary.</h2>



Here is the summarized table:



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Criteria</td><td>Shift Left</td><td>Shift Right</td></tr><tr><td>Definition&nbsp;</td><td>Refers to shifting the focus of operations and tasks to the left of the traditional technology stack to develop or maintain software.&nbsp;</td><td>Refers to shifting the focus from manual tasks and more technical tasks.&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Context&nbsp;</td><td>Usually used when accessing &amp; automating activities that are essential to producing software.&nbsp;</td><td>Usually used when tasks consist of intensive repeatable processes.&nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Benefits&nbsp;</td><td>Allow for quicker and more efficient software labor costs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>Doing tasks through automating the processes can lead to a development cycle and reduces the increase in accuracy compared to manual labor and reduces people needed for a project.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>Impact&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td><td>Reduced costs through automation and better processes.</td><td>Increased efficiency in completing tasks by automating repeatable accuracy when developing software.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2 id="h-which-one-to-choose-shift-left-or-shift-right-or-both">Which One to Choose, Shift Left or Shift Right, or Both?</h2>



Alright, we&#8217;re all pondering whether to go left or right. Here are some tips to help you pick the one that&#8217;s right for you. It depends on the scale of the test and the specific needs and preferences of the organization. If you want to focus primarily on the early detection of critical bugs or other software development problems, then &#8220;Shift-Left&#8221; testing is your best choice; by performing tests earlier on in the development cycle, you can detect and eliminate problems more quickly and this can save money and other resources in the long term. 



On the other hand, if you are more concerned with verifying the correctness of the application as it is being deployed, then a &#8220;Shift-Right&#8221; approach would be more appropriate; by postponing tests to later stages of the deployment pipeline, you can ensure that features and behaviors are sufficiently tested in the environments where they are being used. In some cases, it may be beneficial to use a combination of both approaches; the key is understanding your particular needs and objectives and selecting and refining your testing strategies accordingly.



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



So here&#8217;s the deal &#8211; there are two operations before you: shift left and shift right. Each has its pros and cons. Shift Left is about catching defects early in the development process, while Shift Right focuses on testing in production to ensure your app works well in the real world. It really depends on what your organization needs and wants. You must consider your company culture, development processes, and business goals to determine your best approach.



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



<h3 id="h-is-the-shift-left-positive-or-negative">Is the shift left positive or negative?</h3>



Shift left is a positive operation.



<h3 id="h-what-is-an-example-of-shift-left-testing-and-shift-right-testing">What is an example of shift left testing and shift right testing?</h3>



Shift Left Testing: This testing operation occurs early in the software development life cycle. An example of this could involve unit and integration testing performed by developers and QA specialists before handing off the project to operations or the customer. Shift right testing is a testing approach that moves testing activities to the right of the development cycle, meaning it starts later in the process. An example would be having the customer perform user acceptance testing at the end of the development cycle to ensure the product meets their needs and requirements.

Shifting Gears The Differences between Shift Left vs Shift Right

Shift Left vs Shift Right: Top Key Differences

Peer testing is an efficient way of identifying bugs in your programming. Another person verifying your code with a new perspective is sure to pull out issues that might go unnoticed otherwise. It further helps you to gain some insight into the subject, which guides you to enhance the code structure. And even testers do peer testing to validate the test scripts and cases of their fellow QA engineers.



Let us dive deeper into this topic and better understand the nuances of peer testing in terms of development and testing.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_Peer_Testing">1 What is Peer Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#What_are_the_Benefits_of_Peer_Testing">2 What are the Benefits of Peer Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#Who_Should_Do_It">3 Who Should Do It?</a></li><li><a href="#What_are_the_Requirements_of_Peer_Testing">4 What are the Requirements of Peer Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_Perform_Peer_Testing">5 How to Perform Peer Testing?</a><ul><li><a href="#Manual">5.1 Manual</a></li><li><a href="#Automated">5.2 Automated</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Disadvantages_of_Peer_Testing">6 Disadvantages of Peer Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Summary">7 Summary</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">8 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_the_full_form_of_P2P_in_testing">8.1 What is the full form of P2P in testing?</a></li><li><a href="#Why_is_peer_testing_important">8.2 Why is peer testing important?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-peer-testing">What is Peer Testing?</h2>



Peer testing is a software development practice that developers follow to review or evaluate each other’s code. The process involves a coder checking the program of their fellow colleagues to provide feedback, identify issues, and ensure complete code quality.



The purpose of peer testing is to nurture a collaborative environment that leads to building bug-free applications with shared responsibility. By involving multiple developers in the review process, you can catch potential issues and promote collaboration and knowledge sharing within the development team.



Another approach to peer testing is testers checking the test scripts of their fellow QA engineers to see if there are any problems with the tests. It includes testers verifying the manual or automation tests of their colleagues to provide feedback and suggestions.



<h2 id="h-what-are-the-benefits-of-peer-testing">What are the Benefits of Peer Testing?</h2>



Peer testing offers multiple benefits to the developers as well as testers involved in the project. It ensures that coders improve on their existing program and that the stakeholders receive a better-quality product to take to market. Here are some of the reasons why you should do peer testing:



<ul><li>Defect Identification: Peer testing helps identify defects and issues early in the development lifecycle. When team members review the code, documentation, or test scripts they can spot errors, bugs, and potential problems that may have been overlooked by the author. Finding and fixing issues early saves time and effort that would otherwise be spent on detecting and resolving defects at later stages.</li><li>Quality Improvement: Peer testing contributes to improving the overall quality of the software. Through collaborative review and feedback, team members can suggest enhancements, highlight areas for improvement, and share best practices in the code or <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Test_script" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test scripts</a>. This leads to better code and script readability and maintainability, resulting in higher-quality software.</li><li>Knowledge Sharing and Learning: This process fosters an environment of knowledge sharing and learning within the team. Reviewing each other&#8217;s work allows colleagues to gain exposure to different coding styles, approaches, and problem-solving techniques. Testers can offer improvement in test scripts and testing approaches, learn from each other&#8217;s experiences, expand their knowledge and improve their skills.</li><li>Code Consistency and Standards: Peer testing helps enforce coding standards and maintain code consistency across the project. Reviewing application code or testing scripts, ensures that developers and testers follow established guidelines, conventions, and architectural principles. Such practice makes the code and the script more readable, understandable, and maintainable, especially when multiple individuals work on the same project.</li><li>Collaboration and Team Building: It promotes collaboration and team building by involving team members in the review process. It creates a sense of shared responsibility, encourages open communication, constructive feedback, and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.</li><li>Risk Mitigation: Peer testing helps mitigate risks associated with software defects. Catching and addressing issues reduces the likelihood of critical bugs or functional gaps in the final product. This process improves customer satisfaction, reduces support requests, and minimizes the impact of potential issues on the project timeline.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-who-should-do-it">Who Should Do It?</h2>



It is a very important practice that benefits the author and the reviewer. Here are some of the individuals who should be a part of the review:



<ul><li>Developers: Peers within the <a href="https://youteam.io/blog/guide-to-hiring-remote-team-of-software-developers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">development team</a> can review each other&#8217;s code to identify issues in the code, bugs, or areas for improvement.</li><li>Testers: Quality assurance professionals can engage in peer testing to validate test cases, review test plans, and provide feedback on the testing process. They can check the requirement documents, the testing approach, and the use of automation tools.</li></ul>



There are many other individuals involved in peer testing, such as designers, business analysts, project managers, and stakeholders, that ensure reviewing of several documents. But mostly, when it comes to checking the code or test scripts, developers and testers remain a big part of peer testing.



<h2 id="h-what-are-the-requirements-of-peer-testing">What are the Requirements of Peer Testing?</h2>



Peer testing does not have a long list of requirements that you need to follow necessarily, but below are a few suggestions you can take into account:



<ul><li>Be constructive and positive in your feedback.</li><li>Do not treat it as a formality or back away from it.</li><li>Learn from the review and the suggestions for existing and future changes in your code or test scripts.</li><li>Ask relevant questions if any doubts persist.</li><li>Follow a structured review process to avoid communication gaps or confusion about the project.</li><li>Define clear objectives of peer testing before starting the process.</li><li>Be confident that getting your work reviewed or reviewing somebody else’s code will only improve your skills and expertise.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-how-to-perform-peer-testing">How to Perform Peer Testing?</h2>



Upon deploying the code in the development/<a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test environment</a>, follow the below steps to perform a standardized peer testing process:



<ul><li>The coder or the tester works on their project; they design, develop, test, and implement the code or the test script.</li><li>Subsequently, they execute a self-review process. Developers perform unit testing, and testers check their scripts manually or using automated tools.</li><li>Peer testing comes now; another developer or tester checks your code and provides feedback on the same.</li><li>If there is any issue, the code or the script is Rejected and sent back to the author with suggestions. After the problem is resolved, peer testing is done again, and the function is Passed.</li></ul>



You can perform peer testing in two ways: Manual or automated. Let’s discuss this.



<h3 id="h-manual">Manual</h3>



With manual peer testing, the reviewer goes through the code or the test script line-by-line manually without using any automation tools. They spend time understanding every function and looking at minute details in the program to avoid overseeing any issues. It further extends the process as the reviewer would need to carefully draft a feedback document with all the details to highlight the code&#8217;s issues and possible improvement areas.



While manual peer testing brings a human approach to the entire process, it is also time-consuming and prone to errors.



<h3 id="h-automated">Automated</h3>



Automated peer testing involves using an automation tool, such as Testsigma, to review and provide feedback to the author. By using an automated tool, you are saving time and resources by a tremendous amount. Tools like Testsigma offer an in-built review workflow that allows testers to verify each other’s work. 



It supports parallel testing and has the maintainability testing feature to continue changing the code as per the review feedback without worrying about the test cases failing. And Testsigma consists of many other functions you can employ as a tester to increase the business ROI by building end-to-end tests 5X faster for web, mobile apps, and APIs.



<button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Add Peer testing to your test automation workflow, with ease, with Testsigma</a></button>



Read more on how Testsigma supports peer reviews here: <a href="https://testsigma.com/docs/collaboration/test-cases-review-management/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://testsigma.com/docs/collaboration/test-cases-review-management/</a>



<h2 id="h-disadvantages-of-peer-testing">Disadvantages of Peer Testing</h2>



Some of the disadvantages of peer testing are:



<ul><li>A lack of expertise or skill in reviewing code as per the specified guidelines can impact the entire process.</li><li>Engaging more than one peer to perform the review in order to stay in line with the deadline can hamper communication.</li><li>Often, group dynamics and interpersonal relations also play a major role in the peer testing process, likely affecting the project’s health.</li><li>Peer testing may not provide comprehensive coverage of all aspects of the work being reviewed.</li><li>There are chances that peers engaged in the testing process may not have received formal training in review techniques or quality assurance methodologies.</li></ul>



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



Peer testing is verifying the code or test scripts of your fellow colleagues to offer constructive advice on improving the program or test script and making it better. With multiple advantages and disadvantages to the process, peer testing is still a good practice to follow as it allows both the author and the tester to work on their skills and improve communication across the team.



You can perform peer testing manually or by using an automation tool. We offer you Testsigma as the go-to peer testing tool as it consists of <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/peer-review-in-software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">peer review</a> and reporting features that are most important in peer testing.



Check out our tool in action by registering for a <a href="https://testsigma.com/request-demo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">free demo</a>. And meanwhile, browse through the website to know why <a href="https://testsigma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma</a> is a one-in-million test automation tool.



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



<h3 id="h-what-is-the-full-form-of-p2p-in-testing">What is the full form of P2P in testing?</h3>



P2P stands for peer-to-peer in software testing terms. It means performing testing activities directly between peers or individuals. It involves the collaboration and interaction of team members to evaluate and validate the software or system under test.



<h3 id="h-why-is-peer-testing-important">Why is peer testing important?</h3>



Peer testing enhances a lot more than just the code being tested; it improves collaboration between team members, allows them to showcase their expertise, highlights bugs early on in the SDLC process, and reduces bias among colleagues.