Formal Testing In Software Testing - An Overview

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<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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>.</p>



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<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets"><p class="toc_title">Table Of Contents</p><ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_Is_Verification_Testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> What Is Verification Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#What_Is_Validation_Testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> What Is Validation Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#Purpose_of_Verification_and_Validation"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> Purpose of Verification and Validation</a></li><li><a href="#How_are_Verification_and_Validation_Testing_Performed"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> How are Verification and Validation Testing Performed?</a></li><li><a href="#Tips_for_Successful_Verification_and_Validation"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">5</span> Tips for Successful Verification and Validation</a></li><li><a href="#Difference_Between_Verification_vs_Validation_Testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">6</span> Difference Between Verification vs Validation Testing</a></li><li><a href="#A_Good_Understanding_of_Verification_vs_Validation_in_Testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">7</span> A Good Understanding of Verification vs Validation in Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Verification_vs_Validation_Testing_and_Automation"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">8</span> Verification vs Validation Testing and Automation</a></li><li><a href="#Popular_Test_Automation_Tools_For_Verification_and_Validation"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">9</span> Popular Test Automation Tools For Verification and Validation</a></li><li><a href="#FAQs_About_Verification_Vs_Validation_in_Testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">10</span> FAQs About Verification Vs Validation in Testing</a><ul><li><a href="#1_What_is_the_VV_model_in_software_testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">10.1</span> 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"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">10.2</span> 2. What is an example of verification and validation in software testing?</a></li><li><a href="#3_What_are_the_types_of_validation"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">10.3</span> 3. What are the types of validation?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-verification-testing"><span id="What_Is_Verification_Testing"><strong>What Is Verification Testing?</strong></span></h2>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



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



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



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



<p> 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.</p>



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



<p>The following are four commonly utilized methods for software quality assurance: </p>



<p>1. <strong><a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/peer-review-in-software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peer Reviews</a></strong>: 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. </p>



<p>2. <strong>Assessments</strong>: A dedicated team inspects the software product and helps identify potential faults and critical areas that require attention. </p>



<p>3. <strong>Walkthrough</strong>: 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. </p>



<p>4. <strong>Desk</strong>&#8211;<strong>Checking</strong>: 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.</p>



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



<p>Here are some major tips you should consider:</p>



<p>1. <strong>Clearly define verification and validation objectives:</strong> Set specific goals for the verification and validation process to achieve the desired outcomes.</p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Verification Testing</strong></td><td><strong>Validation Testing</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Focuses on whether the software meets its specified requirements </td><td>Focuses on whether the software meets the needs of end-users </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"><span id="A_Good_Understanding_of_Verification_vs_Validation_in_Testing"><strong>A Good Understanding of Verification vs Validation in Testing</strong></span></h2>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p><strong>Testsigma</strong></p>



<p><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 10x faster. </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><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></p>



<p><strong>Selenium</strong></p>



<p>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#.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p><strong>Appium</strong><br>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. </p>



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



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



<p>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:</p>



<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"><span id="2_What_is_an_example_of_verification_and_validation_in_software_testing"><strong>2. What is an example of verification and validation in software testing?</strong></span></h3>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>Types of validation include</p>



<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 


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



<p>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;</p>



<p>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.</p>



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets"><p class="toc_title">Table Of Contents</p><ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_a_Latent_Defect_in_Software_Testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> What is a Latent Defect in Software Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#What_causes_latent_defects"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> What causes latent defects?</a></li><li><a href="#nbspSigns_of_Latent_Defect"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> &nbsp;Signs of Latent Defect</a></li><li><a href="#Latent_Defect_Example"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> Latent Defect Example</a></li><li><a href="#Test_Automation_to_catch_Latent_Defects"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">5</span> Test Automation to catch Latent Defects</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_Identify_Latent_Defects_Solving"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">6</span> How to Identify Latent Defects &amp; Solving ?</a></li><li><a href="#Latent_Defect_vs_Masked_Defect"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">7</span> Latent Defect vs Masked Defect</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">8</span> Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">9</span> Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#1_What_is_the_difference_between_a_defect_and_a_latent_defect"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">9.1</span> 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"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">9.2</span> 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"><span id="What_is_a_Latent_Defect_in_Software_Testing">What is a Latent Defect in Software Testing?</span></h2>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<ul><li><strong>Incomplete or Inaccurate Requirements:</strong> 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><strong>Inadequate </strong><a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-coverage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Test Coverage</strong></a><strong>:</strong> 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><strong>Insufficient Testing Techniques:</strong> 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><strong>Environmental Differences:</strong> 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><strong>Complex Interactions and Dependencies:</strong> 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><strong>Human Error:</strong> 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><strong>Limited Time and Resources</strong>: 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"><span id="nbspSigns_of_Latent_Defect">&nbsp;Signs of Latent Defect</span></h2>



<p>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:</p>



<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>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p><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:</p>



<ul><li><strong>Improved Test Coverage</strong>: 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><strong>Regression Testing</strong>: <a href="https://testsigma.com/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><strong>Consistency and Reproducibility</strong>: 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><strong>Execution of Large Data Sets</strong>: 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><strong>Stress and Performance Testing</strong>: 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><strong>Continuous Integration and Continuous Testing</strong>: 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><strong>Monitoring and Alerting</strong>: 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>



<p><br><p><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></p><br></p>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td></td><td><strong>Identifying Latent Defects</strong></td><td><strong>Solving Latent Defects</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Manual Testing</td><td>1. Thorough Requirements Analysis: Analyze requirements documentation for clarity and completeness.<br>2. Exploratory Testing: Perform unscripted testing to uncover hidden defects.<br>3. User Acceptance Testing (UAT): Involve end-users to capture real-world scenarios and gather feedback.<br>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.<br>2. Code Refactoring: Improve code quality through restructuring and optimization.<br>3. Documentation Enhancement: Update documentation to accurately reflect requirements and implementation details.<br>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.<br>2. Automated Regression Testing: Automate regression test suites to catch regression-related latent defects.<br>3. Data-Driven Testing: Automate tests with various data inputs to uncover latent defects related to data handling or processing<br>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.<br>2. Test Script Enhancement: Improve test scripts to cover additional edge cases and scenarios.<br>3. Test Failure Analysis: Analyze test failures to determine if they indicate latent defects or other issues.<br>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"><span id="Latent_Defect_vs_Masked_Defect">Latent Defect vs Masked Defect</span></h2>



<p>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>:</p>



<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"><span id="Conclusion">Conclusion</span></h2>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



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



<p>The difference between a defect and a latent defect lies in their visibility and timing of detection:</p>



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



<p><strong>Here are examples of a latent defect and a patent defect:</strong></p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>


Latent Defect In Software Testing With Example

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?


<p>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.</p>



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets"><p class="toc_title">Table Of Contents</p><ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_are_edge_test_cases"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> What are edge test cases?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_an_edge_test_case_example"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> What is an edge test case example?</a></li><li><a href="#Why_are_edge_cases_important_to_consider"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> Why are edge cases important to consider?</a></li><li><a href="#Edge_case_testing_and_test_automation"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> Edge case testing and test automation</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_Find_Edge_Cases_in_Software_Testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">5</span> How to Find Edge Cases in Software Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_do_edge_case_testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">6</span> How to do edge case testing?</a></li><li><a href="#Why_do_edge_case_testing_before_release"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">7</span> Why do edge case testing before release?</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_prioritize_edge_cases"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">8</span> How to prioritize edge cases?</a></li><li><a href="#Tips_for_edge_case_testing_in_your_development"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">9</span> Tips for edge case testing in your development</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">10</span> Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">11</span> Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_are_edge_and_corner_cases_in_testing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">11.1</span> What are edge and corner cases in testing?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_the_difference_between_base_case_and_edge_case"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">11.2</span> What is the difference between base case and edge case?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-are-edge-test-cases"><span id="What_are_edge_test_cases"><strong>What are edge test cases?</strong></span></h2>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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!</p>



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



<p><strong>Let us look at a real-time example of an Edge case test case.</strong></p>



<p>Scenario: Log in to a website</p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p><strong>If you want to know why edge cases are legit important, you must learn some cool facts first!</strong></p>



<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"><span id="Edge_case_testing_and_test_automation"><strong>Edge case testing and test automation</strong></span></h2>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



<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<strong> Boundary Value Analysis.</strong> 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>



<p>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).</p>



<ul><li>Next, there&#8217;s <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/equivalence-partitioning/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Equivalence Partitioning</strong></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>



<p>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.</p>



<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"><span id="How_to_do_edge_case_testing"><strong>How to do edge case testing?</strong></span></h2>



<p>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.</p>



<p><strong>The Manual Way:</strong></p>



<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>



<p><strong>The Automated Way :</strong></p>



<p>1. <strong>Identify potential edge cases:</strong> 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.</p>



<p>2. <strong>Develop test scenarios:</strong> 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.</p>



<p><p style="padding-bottom:15px">3. <strong>Use automation tools: </strong>Automation tools such as <a href="https://testsigma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Testsigma</strong></a>, <strong>Selenium</strong>, and <strong>Appium </strong>can automate the execution of these test scenarios. These tools can simulate user interactions with the system and verify its behavior under different conditions. </p></p>



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<p><p style="padding-top:30px">4. <strong>Analyze results:</strong> 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.</p></p>



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



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



<p>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. </p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>Are you ready to grasp some tips to do this testing? Here you go:</p>



<p>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? </p>



<p>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.</p>



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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!</p>



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



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<p>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.</p>


What Is an Edge Case Testing How To Find and Prioritize