Test Process Improvement What, When, How & Best Practices

Test Process Improvement | What, When, How & Best Practices

Test Execution A Comprehensive Guide With Examples

Test Execution For Software Testing: A Comprehensive Guide

Test Data Definition, Types, Challenges, and Best Practices

Test Data: Definition, Types, Challenges, and Best Practices


<p>“When to stop testing” is a very interesting topic yet highly asked in many interviews these days. There are several answers to that question too such as: “you stop once you have completed an acceptance criteria”, some say “you never stop as testing is an ongoing task” and some day “it depends!”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Every company and every engineering team have their own criterias set in terms of when testing should be stopped for a particular product/feature. There are several things that impact this decision such as the entry and exit criterias too, however are these enough?&nbsp;</p>



<p>Let&#8217;s dive deeper and understand what is a good way to stop testing with enough confidence.&nbsp;</p>



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets"><p class="toc_title">Table Of Contents</p><ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#When_do_we_start_testingnbsp"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> When do we start testing?&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="#When_to_Stop_Testingnbsp"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> When to Stop Testing?&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="#Checklistnbsp"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> Checklist&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> Conclusion</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-when-do-we-start-testing"><span id="When_do_we_start_testingnbsp">When do we start testing?&nbsp;</span></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/CzPSbY-tiRvIEJ7KlE4Ukql-ZMJB5zS9ilOlkYHDma7Qa73w3RNXnHy1pPnG6BSywr_k6D8xbTUK6gnqhH3wPq4X5x1RdZTOc0ZA5vNHl_lD5GstFcZUGeRdCtlwb4IaZK-TWEdKVkHtCoV0fTdIhxk" alt="start testing"/></figure>



<p>Let&#8217;s start this blog by understanding when to really initiate your testing process. As we keep hearing a lot in communities, conferences, webinars, etc shift testing to the left and not to leave this major task later in the SDLC. The reason behind this is that it helps find defects earlier, clear any assumptions/ambiguities, reduces costs, time and effort to rework and retest on features. This then leads to a good quality product.&nbsp;</p>



<p>We can start testing as early as the requirements stage by understanding what is the ask from this feature:</p>



<ul><li>What do we already have in place?&nbsp;</li><li>How much testing will be required?</li><li>If we don&#8217;t have anything in place, then what would the system expect?</li><li>Pair with developers and Business analysts to get a clear picture and expectations</li><li>Understand if we need other teams too as this might be a feature that impacts other teams or not</li><li>Be involved with the design team to understand the design prior to testing it</li><li>If you are automating tests, you can follow a TDD process too and won&#8217;t have to wait till the feature is fully developed</li></ul>



<p>Once we are clear at this stage, deployment will become much smoother for the entire team.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-when-to-stop-testing"><span id="When_to_Stop_Testingnbsp">When to Stop Testing?&nbsp;<a href="https://qa.world/when-to-stop-testing/"></a></span></h2>



<p id="h-till-date-no-manager-director-has-ever-said-to-me-or-my-team-to-stop-testing-or-reduce-testing-all-i-hear-is-are-we-ready-to-proceed-are-we-confident-with-the-amount-that-has-been-tested-generally-testing-is-an-ongoing-task-we-do-tend-to-meet-acceptance-criterias-and-move-our-tasks-to-completion-however-sometimes-an-extension-or-enhancement-is-done-to-the-same-feature-that-means-you-have-to-test-it-again-therefore-having-an-open-mind-about-this-is-always-good-for-all-teams">Till date no manager/director has ever said to me or my team to stop testing or reduce testing. All I hear is are we ready to proceed, are we confident with the amount that has been tested? Generally testing is an ongoing task, we do tend to meet acceptance criterias and move our tasks to completion, however sometimes an extension or enhancement is done to the same feature, that means you have to test it again. Therefore having an open mind about this is always good for all teams.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The following points can be some guidelines to help you stop the testing tasks:</p>



<ul><li>Decisions from your product owners, line managers to stop the testing tasks<ul><li>a) Budget or/and resources were allocated to some other high priority project</li><li>&nbsp;b) The project was canceled (from the client’s side or the company’s side)&nbsp;</li><li>c) The allocated budget is over and no more budget is being allocated.</li></ul></li></ul>



<ul><li>Deadlines that need to be met</li><li>No high priority and severity bugs found/expected</li><li>Completion of test case execution</li><li>Completion of functional and code coverage to a certain point</li><li>Completion of the acceptance criteria and exit criteria. It is imperative that we consider multiple factors while designing exit criteria, some of which are mentioned below:<ul><li>1. Strong buy-in from the software development team. In the end, your job is to discover defects and theirs is to fix.</li><li>2. If there are clients who will further test the product, that should also be considered as to what will be an acceptable input quality.</li></ul></li><li>Good coverage of the functionality/code.</li><li>Number of bugs in the feature or too buggy to deep dive (valid criteria for exiting a testing process is the discovery of a forecasted number of bugs).</li><li>Release deadline has been met</li></ul>



<p>It is vital to pay attention to all finer details and errors in the product of the application. It is not possible to find all the bugs that may exist, but the team management will make decisions on when to release the product anyway. Also remember that if a bug is found in a live production environment that is not solely the testers responsibility, it&#8217;s the engineering team&#8217;s responsibility. Similarly, if you are retesting a vital bug and get asked “are we ready to release the testing?” it should not be the testers decision to say yes or no, it should always come from the management team. The release might go ahead with some unwanted bugs! See, we haven’t really stopped testing. The question is, can we find these bugs prior to the release, and what is their severity? And the best thing, how to stop the same bug from appearing?</p>



<p>Thereafter if you have met the exit criterias, ship it, but understand that it still has an unlimited amount of not yet discovered bugs.</p>



<h2 id="h-checklist"><span id="Checklistnbsp">Checklist&nbsp;</span></h2>



<p id="h-this-checklist-can-serve-as-a-guide-to-determine-whether-or-not-your-team-have-enough-confidence-for-completing-the-testing">This checklist can serve as a guide to determine whether or not your team have enough confidence for completing the testing:</p>



<ul><li>Stop the testing when deadlines like release deadlines or testing deadlines have reached.</li><li>Stop the testing when the test cases have been completed with some prescribed pass percentage.</li><li>Stop the testing when the testing budget comes to its end.</li><li>Stop the testing when the code coverage and functionality requirements come to the desired level.</li><li>Stop the testing when the bug rate drops below a prescribed level.</li><li>Stop the testing when the number of high severity Open Bugs is very low.</li><li>Stop the testing when the period of beta testing/alpha testing is over.</li></ul>



<p>Some useful metrics you could also use :</p>



<ul><li>Have a dashboard of the percentage of test cases that have passed.</li><li>Have a completion percentage based on the number of test cases executed.</li><li>Have a percentage of failed test cases.</li></ul>



<p>One way to speed up your testing is when you automate your tests. Automation, though, should only be taken up if you <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/roi-test-automation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">see an ROI</a> in the long run at least.</p>



<div class="cta-banner-v2">
<div class="title-with-description ">
<p class="title">Here is a guide with in-depth discussions on do&#8217;s and don&#8217;ts of  automated testing. </p>
</div>
<a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" class="cta-btn-v1" rel="noopener">Check out the guide</a>
</div>



<p><a href="https://testsigma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma</a> is one such tool that comes with features made specifically to help you speed up your testing. It is a codeless platform thus you don’t need to learn to code too. Learn more about it here: testsigma.com</p>



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



<p>Determining when to stop testing is subjective and a complex matter. I believe testing is a never-ending process in a positive way. I have yet to hear from someone that the software is 100% complete from testing. Criteria once designed are not meant to be carved in stone. It should be reviewed constantly in light of the adherence and the post-release issues which come after we meet a set criterion. Therefore, by exploring factors such as meeting release deadlines, the severity of bugs, management decisions, and establishing effective exit criteria, we have equipped you with the necessary thinking points to make informed choices. While the decision may still require careful consideration and evaluation of specific project circumstances, we are confident that the information shared in this blog will empower you to determine appropriate exit criteria and identify the right time to conclude testing. Remember, success lies in finding the right balance between thorough testing and project constraints.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Happy testing!</p>


When to STOP testing?


<p>When software is tested through several phases of software development, there are multiple issues that can occur. They can be functionality issues or a non-functionality one that the software engineers might need to debug. And, there could be some issues that may go unnoticed because of a lot of error clutter. This is what is the concept of defect masking. This phenomenon occurs when a significant software flaw could potentially lead to critical system failures. Therefore, effective testing strategies and thorough defect prioritization are crucial to mitigate this risk and ensure the identification of all critical defects during the testing phase.</p>



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets"><p class="toc_title">Table Of Contents</p><ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_defect_masking"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> What is defect masking?</a></li><li><a href="#Masked_Defects_Example"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> Masked Defects Example</a></li><li><a href="#Why_Masked_Defect"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> Why Masked Defect?</a></li><li><a href="#Practical_description_of_masked_errors"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> Practical description of masked errors</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_the_difference_between_latent_and_masked_defects"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">5</span> What is the difference between latent and masked defects?</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">6</span> Conclusion</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-defect-masking"><span id="What_is_defect_masking">What is defect masking?</span></h2>



<p>Defect masking is a terminology in software testing that refers to a scenario where a critical defect goes undetected due to another defect or issue that attracts more attention during the testing process. Defect masking can be a serious concern as it may result in the release of faulty software, ultimately compromising system reliability and user satisfaction.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 id="h-masked-defects-example"><span id="Masked_Defects_Example">Masked Defects Example</span></h2>



<p>An example of a masked defect that is easily visible but unnoticed is a faulty user interface. Let’s say the UI that was built is extremely visually attractive but some of the most important functionalities according to the requirements of the application might not be easily visible which would impact the business revenue.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Another example would be when integrating multiple software components or third-party libraries, integration issues may arise. These issues can sometimes mask defects within individual components. For instance, a defect in one module may only become apparent when integrated with others, making it harder to trace the root cause.</p>



<p>One of the most common examples is that a software product may function flawlessly in one environment but exhibit critical defects in another, like a production environment versus a development or testing environment. Testers might not discover these defects if they primarily focus on one environment and assume that the software is functioning correctly elsewhere.</p>



<h2 id="h-why-masked-defect"><span id="Why_Masked_Defect">Why Masked Defect?</span></h2>



<p>Defects can become masked because of a combination of factors like limited resources, shifting priorities, and the complexity of software systems. When teams have constraints in resources and limited time, they often prioritize addressing more visible or urgent defects allowing less critical ones to remain hidden.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This results in a scenario where the presence of defects is masked by other issues, becoming an unintentional byproduct of the software. These interdependencies often involve complex relationships between various components or modules within the software, making it challenging to predict how a defect in one area might affect or be obscured by defects in another. This phenomenon underscores the importance of meticulous testing, rigorous defect tracking, and comprehensive quality assurance practices to uncover and rectify all <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/types-of-defects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">types of defects</a>, especially those that could otherwise remain hidden and compromise the software&#8217;s integrity and functionality.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In essence, defect masking is a nuanced challenge that requires vigilant attention to detail and effective <a href="https://www.javatpoint.com/test-strategy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">testing strategies</a> to mitigate its impact.</p>



<h2 id="h-practical-description-of-masked-errors"><span id="Practical_description_of_masked_errors">Practical description of masked errors</span></h2>



<p>In practical terms, consider a scenario in which a software development team is working on an e-commerce platform. During testing, they discovered a minor formatting issue in the product description section that caused a huge misalignment in the text. This cosmetic issue is quickly identified and resolved because it&#8217;s readily available to testers.&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, buried within the same codebase, there&#8217;s a more critical defect related to payment processing that occasionally results in incorrect transactions, but it&#8217;s rare and doesn&#8217;t consistently trigger errors. This severe payment bug remains unnoticed because the team&#8217;s attention is predominantly focused on fixing the visual flaw.&nbsp;</p>



<p>So, the payment error remains masked by the less impactful formatting issue, posing a significant risk to the system&#8217;s financial integrity and user trust. This practical example illustrates how a less critical defect can mask a far more severe one when testing and development priorities are not effectively managed.</p>



<h2 id="h-what-is-the-difference-between-latent-and-masked-defects"><span id="What_is_the_difference_between_latent_and_masked_defects">What is the difference between latent and masked defects?</span></h2>



<p>There often is a misconception between masked and latent defects. So here are its differences.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Latent Defects</strong></td><td><strong>Masked Defects</strong></td></tr><tr><td>Latent defects are defects within the software that are present but dormant or inactive. They do not manifest themselves until specific conditions or scenarios arise.</td><td>Masked defects are defects that go unnoticed or undetected during testing due to the presence of other defects or because they are overshadowed by more visible issues.</td></tr><tr><td>Latent defects are triggered by specific and often uncommon usage patterns, data inputs, or environmental conditions that are not typically encountered during regular testing.</td><td>Masked defects are concealed by other defects and may only become apparent when the masking defects are resolved, or under specific, often uncommon, circumstances.</td></tr><tr><td>Latent defects may remain dormant for an extended period and can potentially go undetected for a long time if the triggering conditions do not occur.</td><td>Masked defects are usually detected only when the defects masking them are fixed or when the right set of conditions is met during testing or real-world usage.</td></tr><tr><td>A latent defect in a backup system might only become active and noticeable when a specific type of system failure occurs, triggering the backup process.</td><td>A masked defect might occur when a critical software bug is concealed by the presence of other, less impactful issues, leading testers and developers to overlook it during testing.</td></tr><tr><td>Latent defects can have severe consequences when they become active, potentially leading to system failures, data loss, or other critical issues.</td><td>Masked defects can impact software quality by allowing critical issues to go unnoticed, potentially leading to user dissatisfaction, financial losses, or compromised system reliability.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p><strong>How can test automation help?</strong></p>



<p>If you have test cases that need to be executed repeatedly, and you see test automation generating an ROI in the long run, it is always recommended to automate your tests.</p>



<p>Automating these tests ensures there is no masked defect in the areas where tests are automated.</p>



<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 applications and APIs, 10x faster, with Testsigma</a></button></p><br></p>



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



<p>In conclusion, defect masking is a significant concern in software testing that can lead to the release of faulty software. Addressing this issue requires a combination of robust testing practices, effective communication, defect prioritization, and a commitment to delivering high-quality software to end-users. </p>



<faq>
  <ts-list-item>
    <ts-title-value>What is defect leakage?</ts-title-value>
    <ts-content-value>Defect leakage occurs in a software application when issues that were previously identified and supposedly fixed reappear in later stages of development or even after the software has been released to users. This phenomenon indicates that defects have &#8220;leaked&#8221; from one phase of development or testing into another, often going unnoticed until they resurface in a more critical context.</ts-content-value>
  </ts-list-item>
</faq>



<customlinks>
<ts-link-item>
<ts-linktext-value>Automated mobile app testing</ts-linktext-value>
<ts-linkurl-value>https://testsigma.com/automated-mobile-app-testing</ts-linkurl-value>
</ts-link-item>
<ts-link-item>
<ts-linktext-value>Automated web application testing</ts-linktext-value>
<ts-linkurl-value>https://testsigma.com/automated-web-application-testing</ts-linkurl-value>
</ts-link-item>
</customlinks>


Defect Masking in Software Testing What it is & Why it Matters

Defect Masking in Software Testing | What it is & Why it Matters?


<p>In this month&#8217;s release, our product team has packed some cool new features like GraphQL support, native AWS integration, and testing capabilities to better simulate real-world usage conditions in an effort to continue to revolutionize your testing experience.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Let&#8217;s dive into the details:</p>



<ol><li><strong>Optimized <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-graphql/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GraphQL testing</a> (Beta</strong>): Say goodbye to overfetching and underfetching. Testsigma&#8217;s support for GraphQL simplifies testing while enhancing accuracy. It lets you request multiple resources in a single query call, reducing back-and-forth between your app and the server. This optimization not only saves time but also minimizes bandwidth usage.</li></ol>



<ol start="2"><li><strong>Native AWS Integration</strong>: Seamlessly merge your testing and deployment efforts with our AWS integration. Our native integration allows you to trigger Testsigma Test plans within your CI/CD pipeline, ensuring a smooth workflow based on Test Plan Results.</li></ol>



<ol start="3"><li><strong>Network Throttling:</strong> Experience your website&#8217;s performance under real-world conditions of limited bandwidths and network speeds. Simulate scenarios with low network speeds and analyze your website&#8217;s performance to ensure optimal user experience, even in challenging network environments.</li></ol>



<ol start="4"><li><strong>Geolocation Testing:</strong> Accurate and contextually relevant translations, culturally appropriate content, functional adaptability and more, localization features enable you to address diverse user preferences and languages. With our Geolocation testing capabilities, you can effortlessly test these features for your web and mobile apps, ensuring quality releases for users across the globe.&nbsp;</li></ol>



<p>Stay tuned for more updates from our Product Team. And if you haven&#8217;t experienced the effect that Testsigma can have on your release velocity, <a href="https://testsigma.com/signup">try it for free</a>.</p>


August ’23 Product Digest The latest on Testsigma

August ’23 Product Digest: The latest on Testsigma

A Guide on Requirements Traceability Matrix Template


<p>The need to experiment with new technology has never been greater in today&#8217;s rapidly evolving technological landscape. However, the risks associated with untested and potentially malicious code can incur significant challenges for developers, businesses, and security professionals. Thus, we need an isolated and controlled environment where applications and code can be executed and tested without affecting the broader systems used for higher settings. There comes Sandbox.</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_Sandbox"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> What is a Sandbox?</a></li><li><a href="#Importance_of_Sandboxes"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> Importance of Sandboxes</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_the_Purpose_of_a_Sandbox"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> What is the Purpose of a Sandbox?</a></li><li><a href="#Benefits_of_a_Sandbox"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> Benefits of a Sandbox</a></li><li><a href="#What_are_the_Major_Drawbacks_of_the_Sandbox"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">5</span> What are the Major Drawbacks of the Sandbox?</a></li><li><a href="#Pros_and_Cons_of_Sandboxing"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">6</span> Pros and Cons of Sandboxing</a></li><li><a href="#Role_of_Sandbox_in_Test_Automation"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">7</span> Role of Sandbox in Test Automation</a></li><li><a href="#Examples_of_Using_a_Sandboxnbsp"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">8</span> Examples of Using a Sandbox&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="#How_Does_a_Sandbox_Work"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">9</span> How Does a Sandbox Work?</a><ul><li><a href="#Isolation"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">9.1</span> Isolation</a></li><li><a href="#Virtualization"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">9.2</span> Virtualization</a></li><li><a href="#Access_Restrictions"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">9.3</span> Access Restrictions</a></li><li><a href="#Monitoring"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">9.4</span> Monitoring</a></li><li><a href="#Controlled_termination_of_sandbox"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">9.5</span> Controlled termination of sandbox</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#How_Do_You_Set_Up_a_Sandbox_Environment"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">10</span> How Do You Set Up a Sandbox Environment?</a></li><li><a href="#Sandbox_Applications"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">11</span> Sandbox Applications</a><ul><li><a href="#Docker"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">11.1</span> Docker</a></li><li><a href="#Sandboxie"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">11.2</span> Sandboxie</a></li><li><a href="#Firejail"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">11.3</span> Firejail</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Conclusion"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">12</span> Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">13</span> Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#How_is_the_sandbox_created"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">13.1</span> How is the sandbox created?</a></li><li><a href="#What_are_the_features_of_a_sandbox"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">13.2</span> What are the features of a sandbox?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-a-sandbox"><span id="What_is_a_Sandbox"><strong>What is a Sandbox?</strong></span></h2>



<p>Sandbox is a sample testing environment that provides a secure space for experimentation during the software development cycle. It also applies when you are learning a new skill and want to learn practically about different features that exist without exhausting real-world environments/data centers.</p>



<h2 id="importance-of-sandboxes"><span id="Importance_of_Sandboxes"><strong>Importance of Sandboxes</strong></span></h2>



<p>Sandboxes act as safeguarded environments in which programs can be run. They isolate applications, preventing them from harming the main system or stealing user data. This ensures the main system&#8217;s stability, security, and privacy.</p>



<h2 id="what-is-the-purpose-of-a-sandbox"><span id="What_is_the_Purpose_of_a_Sandbox"><strong>What is the Purpose of a Sandbox?</strong></span></h2>



<p>The purpose of a sandbox is to provide a safe environment for users to test new software or run untrusted code. Sandboxes isolate programs and applications from the rest of the system, preventing them from accessing or damaging critical system resources or other applications.</p>



<h2 id="benefits-of-a-sandbox"><span id="Benefits_of_a_Sandbox"><strong>Benefits of a Sandbox</strong></span></h2>



<p id="there-are-many-benefits-to-using-a-sandbox-including">There are many benefits to using a sandbox, including:</p>



<ul><li><strong>Security:</strong> Sandboxes can help to protect systems from malware and other cyber threats.</li><li><strong>Reliability:</strong> Sandboxes can help improve systems&#8217; reliability by preventing programs and applications from interfering with each other.</li><li><strong>Privacy:</strong> Sandboxes can help to protect user privacy by preventing programs and applications from accessing sensitive user data.</li><li><strong>Testing:</strong> Sandboxes can test new software or run untrusted code in a safe environment.</li><li><strong>Education:</strong> Sandboxes can be used in educational settings to provide students with a safe environment to experiment with new software and technologies.</li></ul>



<h2 id="what-are-the-major-drawbacks-of-the-sandbox"><span id="What_are_the_Major_Drawbacks_of_the_Sandbox"><strong>What are the Major Drawbacks of the Sandbox?</strong></span></h2>



<p id="a-few-drawbacks-to-using-sandboxes-include">A few drawbacks to using sandboxes include:</p>



<ul><li><strong>Performance:</strong> Sandboxes can introduce some overhead, impacting the performance of programs and applications running in a sandbox.</li><li><strong>Complexity:</strong> Sandboxes can be complex to configure and manage, especially for enterprise users.</li><li><strong>False positives:</strong> Sandboxes can sometimes generate false positives, which may flag legitimate programs and applications as malicious.</li></ul>



<h2 id="pros-and-cons-of-sandboxing"><span id="Pros_and_Cons_of_Sandboxing"><strong>Pros and Cons of Sandboxing</strong></span></h2>



<p>The pros of sandboxing include:</p>



<ul><li>Improved security,</li><li>Increased stability,</li><li>Improved performance,</li><li>Increased flexibility</li></ul>



<p>The cons of sandboxing include:</p>



<ul><li>Reduced performance,</li><li>Increased complexity,</li><li>Potential for security vulnerabilities</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-role-of-sandbox-in-test-automation"><span id="Role_of_Sandbox_in_Test_Automation"><strong>Role of Sandbox in Test Automation</strong></span></h2>



<p><strong>Test Environment Replication</strong>: Allows testers to replicate the production environments accurately. This facilitates an environment that closely resembles the original environment, which helps in identifying any compatibility or configuration issues early in the testing phase. Read here- <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test Environment</a></p>



<p><strong>Safe Test Execution</strong>: When test automation scripts are created initially, where do you test them? Definitely not in a Production environment. This is where a sandbox can be created and used. This ensures that critical systems are not impacted and any bugs present in the test automation scripts generated are troubleshooted in the sandbox environment that&#8217;s completely isolated, and the infrastructural or application impact is only going to affect the sandbox environments.</p>



<p><strong>Read all about <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-execution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test Execution</a></strong>.</p>



<p><strong><a href="https://testsigma.com/parallel-test-runs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parallel Test Execution</a></strong>: Multiple instances of the sandbox environment can be created, allowing simultaneous execution of various types of tests across different configurations. This helps improve the efficiency of test automation by reducing time and enabling broader test coverage.</p>



<p><strong>Test Case Validation and Debugging</strong>: Testers can analyze the behavior of the application under test within the sandbox, identify any issues or failures, and perform necessary debugging steps without risking disruptions in the live environment.</p>



<p><strong>Read about <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/difference-between-testing-and-debugging/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testing vs Debugging</a></strong>.</p>



<p><strong>Continuous Integration and Deployment (CI/CD)</strong>: Sandboxes facilitate integration with <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/ci-cd-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CI/CD pipelines</a>, enabling automated testing as part of the development and deployment process. By incorporating sandbox environments into the CI/CD workflow, test automation can be seamlessly integrated, allowing for rapid feedback and early detection of issues before software releases.</p>



<h2 id="h-examples-of-using-a-sandbox"><span id="Examples_of_Using_a_Sandboxnbsp"><strong>Examples of Using a Sandbox&nbsp;</strong></span></h2>



<p>Here, we&#8217;ll outline the key differences between the two workflows:</p>



<p id="h-manual-testing-workflow-in-a-sandbox-environment"><strong>Manual Testing Workflow in a Sandbox Environment:</strong></p>



<ul><li><strong>Sandbox Environment Setup</strong>: provision a sandbox environment that replicates the production environment as accurate as possible.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong><a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-plan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test Planning</a></strong>: Define your test objectives, goals, and scope. Create a test plan with all the details related to the manual testing strategy, including which test cases to execute.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Test Case Preparation and Data</strong>: Develop or gather manual test cases and ensure that the test cases cover the desired functionalities, edge cases, and user scenarios. Prepare test data, including valid and invalid inputs, to use during testing.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Test Execution and Reporting</strong>: Manually execute test cases in the sandbox environment. Testers interact with the application&#8217;s user interface, input data, and observe results.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Regression and <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/exploratory-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Exploratory Testing</a></strong>: After defects are fixed, manually retest affected areas. Confirm that defects have been resolved without introducing new issues. Conduct ad-hoc testing to discover issues that might not be covered by formal test cases.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Feedback and Review</strong>: Gather feedback from testers, developers, and stakeholders to assess the application&#8217;s quality Review testing results to determine if the application meets the defined acceptance criteria.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Release Planning</strong>: once the testing is done, plan the release of the application to the production environment. If approved, deploy the tested application to the production environment.</li></ul>



<p id="h-now-that-we-saw-how-the-manual-testing-on-sandbox-works-let-s-see-how-automation-testing-in-sandbox-occurs">Now that we saw how the <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/manual-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manual testing </a>on sandbox works, let’s see how automation testing in sandbox occurs.</p>



<p><strong>Automation Testing Workflow in a Sandbox Environment:</strong></p>



<ul><li><strong>Sandbox Setup</strong>: Create or provision a sandbox environment that replicates the production environment as closely as possible.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Test Automation Planning</strong>: Define testing objectives and scope for automated testing. Select and configure automated testing tools and frameworks.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Test Script Development:</strong> Create automated test scripts using chosen automation tools. Ensure that test scripts cover functional and regression test cases.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Test Data Setup</strong>: Prepare test data, often using automated data generation or import processes.</li></ul>



<ul><li><strong>Continuous Integration (CI) Integration and Continuous Deployment (CD):</strong> Integrate automated tests into the CI/CD pipeline for <a href="https://testsigma.com/continuous-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">continuous testing</a>.</li></ul>



<p>For any kind of test automation, you can rely on tools like testsigma which acts as an end-to-end test automation tool.</p>



<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 applications and APIs from the same place, and execute them on 3000+ devices and browsers, with Testsigma</a></button><br></p>



<h2 id="h-how-does-a-sandbox-work"><span id="How_Does_a_Sandbox_Work"><strong>How Does a Sandbox Work?</strong></span></h2>



<p>So far we discussed what a sandbox is, what is the purpose of using it, and the different roles the sandbox plays in different scenarios. Now we will see how exactly this sandbox works.</p>



<h3 id="h-isolation"><span id="Isolation">Isolation</span></h3>



<p>Firstly, the sandbox isolates the environment by creating a separate operating system and other related processes which are totally in different networks and storage.</p>



<h3 id="h-virtualization"><span id="Virtualization">Virtualization</span></h3>



<p>Sometimes, even though a new environment is created using a different OS, it is easier to store and maintain the experimental environment such as a sandbox in a virtual infrastructure such as a virtual machine. So, it is recommended to create a sandbox environment in a virtual environment and use technologies such as containerization in practice.</p>



<h3 id="h-access-restrictions"><span id="Access_Restrictions">Access Restrictions</span></h3>



<p>Once the sandbox environment is created, certain configurations are done to prevent access of any files to and fro the environment. For example, if you want to access a db file from the dev environment from your sandbox environment, it is blocked.</p>



<h3 id="h-monitoring"><span id="Monitoring">Monitoring</span></h3>



<p>Once the environment is used, the environment is closely monitored. A system call is a request made by the application to the operating system for performing various tasks, such as file operations, network communication, or memory access. By intercepting and analyzing these system calls, the sandbox can enforce restrictions and prevent unauthorized actions.</p>



<h3 id="h-controlled-termination-of-sandbox"><span id="Controlled_termination_of_sandbox">Controlled termination of sandbox</span></h3>



<p>If the sandboxed application behaves unexpectedly or poses a threat, the sandbox can be terminated safely, preventing any negative impact on the host system.</p>



<h2 id="h-how-do-you-set-up-a-sandbox-environment"><span id="How_Do_You_Set_Up_a_Sandbox_Environment"><strong>How Do You Set Up a Sandbox Environment?</strong></span></h2>



<p>Setting up sandbox may vary depending on needs and technology you’re working on. The steps are as follows:</p>



<p>Firstly, Choose your technology stack. Here you will understand which type of sandbox environment you want to create. For example, VMs, containers,s or some software specific to your use case. Choosing this depends on how you want to deploy your application like in the form of containers or so. Read more <a href="https://blog.hubspot.com/website/sandbox-environment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.</p>



<p>Next, you install the software like the sandbox applications such as docker, virtual box, and some other apps we discussed in the previous section. Once the sandbox environment is set, create the resources and configure some settings on it as a part of access control.</p>



<h2 id="sandbox-applications"><span id="Sandbox_Applications"><strong>Sandbox Applications</strong></span></h2>



<p id="h-some-of-the-applications-that-make-use-of-sandbox-environment-are-as-follows">Some of the applications that make use of Sandbox environment are as follows:</p>



<h3 id="h-docker"><span id="Docker"><strong>Docker</strong></span></h3>



<p>It has several editions which enable various kinds of applications to run. It enables us to work on development and staging environments which are basically sandbox environment that lets you test your application developments and testing in your local system and private repositories. This tool is specifically used to run containerized applications. It can be run on all kinds of operating systems: Windows, Linux and MacOS.</p>



<h3 id="h-sandboxie"><span id="Sandboxie"><strong>Sandboxie</strong></span></h3>



<p>This is one of the most popular sandbox environment tool which enables you to work on windows OS only. It enables safe browsing feature which allows you to run a browser in sandbox environment which in turn provides security to your system. It also provides resource access control.</p>



<p><strong>Read about <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/browser-sandbox/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Browser Sandox</a>.</strong></p>



<h3 id="h-firejail"><span id="Firejail"><strong>Firejail</strong></span></h3>



<p>Unlike Sandboxie which is a windows operating system based sandboxing application, Firejail is a linux based sandboxing system. We use servers to generally deploy our applications consisting of various environments such as development, staging, production and many more. When you have to run an experimentation on your application among such critical systems, it is risky and not recommended. Firejail provides the leverage of an entire environment free from any critical systems. Linux is a developer-friendly operating system and this tool is just like a cherry on top!</p>



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



<p>In conclusion, sandbox technology has emerged as a powerful solution in the world of technology and software development, addressing critical needs for security, testing, and innovation.</p>



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



<h3 id="how-is-the-sandbox-created"><span id="How_is_the_sandbox_created">How is the sandbox created?</span></h3>



<p>Creating a sandbox is like setting up a safe and enclosed play area for your computer. To do this, you can use special software called a &#8220;sandboxing tool&#8221; that isolates your applications or code from the rest of your computer. This prevents anything inside the sandbox from affecting the main system, making it a secure space to test new programs or browse the web without worrying about viruses or malware.</p>



<h3 id="what-are-the-features-of-a-sandbox"><span id="What_are_the_features_of_a_sandbox">What are the features of a sandbox?</span></h3>



<p>There are many features due to which sandbox environments are popular. Some of the main features are its feature of isolation, the added security configurations availability, testing, and validation features for both manual and automated methods, and its flexibility for custom configurations.</p>


What is Sandbox Importance, Benefits & How it Works

What is Sandbox | Importance, Benefits & How it Works?

Capability Maturity Model for Software Development Teams

Progression Testing Elevating Evolution of Software Testing

Progression Testing: Elevating Evolution of Software Testing

Software Testability What it is, Types & How to Measure It

Software Testability: What it is, Types & How to Measure It


<p>At its core, Root Cause Analysis (RCA) in software testing operates much like seeking answers to everyday predicaments. Imagine when you are unwell and seeking the cause of your ailment or when your electricity goes out, and we&#8217;re determined to identify the underlying issue. Similarly, in the realm of software, when defects arise, the purpose of RCA is akin to unveiling the true source of these glitches.</p>



<p>Just as simple remedies don&#8217;t suffice when we&#8217;re sick or dealing with a malfunction in the house, addressing symptoms alone in <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/types-of-defects/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">software defects</a> overlooks the crucial question: &#8220;Why?&#8221;.</p>



<p>In this blog, we&#8217;ll uncover how RCA functions in guiding us to delve deep, not just into symptoms, but into the very core of software issues.</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_Root_Cause_Analysis"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">1</span> What is Root Cause Analysis?</a></li><li><a href="#Why_To_Perform_Root_Cause_Analysis"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">2</span> Why To Perform Root Cause Analysis?</a></li><li><a href="#Examples_of_Root_Cause_Analysis"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">3</span> Examples of Root Cause Analysis</a></li><li><a href="#Goals"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">4</span> Goals</a></li><li><a href="#RCA_in_Test_Automation"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">5</span> RCA in Test Automation</a></li><li><a href="#Tips_to_Follow_for_Performing_Effective_RCA"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">6</span> Tips to Follow for Performing Effective RCA</a></li><li><a href="#Summary"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">7</span> Summary</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_1">8</span> Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_an_RCA_tool"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">8.1</span> What is an RCA tool?</a></li><li><a href="#What_are_the_types_of_RCA"><span class="toc_number toc_depth_2">8.2</span> What are the types of RCA?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-root-cause-analysis"><span id="What_is_Root_Cause_Analysis">What is Root Cause Analysis?</span></h2>



<p>Root Cause Analysis (RCA) in software testing is a systematic approach used to identify and address the underlying reasons behind software defects. By addressing the underlying causes, RCA helps in improving software quality by enhancing development processes, communication, and collaboration.</p>



<p>RCA involves a structured investigation process that examines various aspects of the software development and testing lifecycle, including requirements, design, coding, testing, and deployment.</p>



<h2 id="h-why-to-perform-root-cause-analysis"><span id="Why_To_Perform_Root_Cause_Analysis">Why To Perform Root Cause Analysis?</span></h2>



<p>Here are some of the key features of root cause analysis in software testing that make it important:</p>



<ul><li>It helps in <strong>cost reduction</strong> associated with defect correction. By pinpointing the accurate reason for errors, RCA helps resolve problems before the software reaches the production stage, where defect identification and mitigation is five times more expensive than the design stage.</li><li>With an error-free product and an efficient RCA process in place, you can identify, solve, and deliver software at an <strong>accelerated speed</strong> to gain a competitive advantage in the market.</li><li>RCA enables companies to find the source of defects to <strong>promote a seamless problem-solving approach</strong> and remove the issue from its root, ensuring better software quality.</li><li>Better quality software is sure to add to the existing customer experience and improve upon it. Clearly, RCA contributes to <strong>enhancing customer satisfaction</strong>.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-examples-of-root-cause-analysis"><span id="Examples_of_Root_Cause_Analysis">Examples of Root Cause Analysis</span></h2>



<p>Let&#8217;s explore an example where RCA proves invaluable for a high-traffic e-commerce website grappling with sluggish performance during peak periods.</p>



<p><strong>Issue:</strong> The e-commerce website experiences sluggish performance during peak traffic, causing user frustration and potential revenue loss.</p>



<p><strong>RCA Process:</strong></p>



<p>To address this challenge, the testing team initiates the RCA process by collecting performance metrics, server logs, and user feedback. Their comprehensive analysis reveals a critical insight: <strong>the website&#8217;s response time significantly increases when users attempt to add items to their cart.</strong> Further investigation uncovers that the cart update process triggers numerous database queries per item, leading to a database bottleneck that hampers overall performance. With this revelation, the development team takes swift action. They optimize database queries, introduce caching mechanisms, and implement load-balancing strategies for efficient traffic distribution. To prevent future occurrences, performance testing becomes an integral part of the development lifecycle, identifying and rectifying potential bottlenecks at an early stage.</p>



<p>Let’s take another instance where RCA uncovers the intricacies of the problem and offers solutions for consistent, reliable results.</p>



<p><strong>Issue:</strong> A financial software application generates inconsistent financial reports, causing confusion and eroding user trust.</p>



<p><strong>RCA Process:</strong></p>



<p>In this scenario, the testing team embarks on an RCA journey to address data inconsistencies. They begin by conducting meticulous data validation tests, comparing outputs against expected results. Discrepancies emerge, particularly when the application handles extensive data involving complex calculations. <strong>The root cause analysis reveals that certain data inputs contain non-numeric characters that disrupt essential calculations.</strong> Moreover, existing error-handling mechanisms prove inadequate. The development team responds swiftly, enhancing the software&#8217;s defenses with robust input validation mechanisms and bolstering error-handling procedures to ensure precise calculations and consistent outcomes. To safeguard data integrity, automated data validation checks are introduced, and comprehensive data integrity tests become routine during each <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Software_release_life_cycle" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">release cycle</a>.</p>



<h2 id="h-goals"><span id="Goals">Goals</span></h2>



<p>Root cause analysis in testing has three goals aimed at identifying, mitigating, and preventing issues in the system:</p>



<ul><li>Identify the cause of the problem, i.e., discover the root of the cause.</li><li>Understand the root cause and analyze how to resolve the problem.</li><li>Put the learnings of the analysis into practice to fix the issue and prevent future system breakdowns.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-rca-in-test-automation"><span id="RCA_in_Test_Automation">RCA in Test Automation</span></h2>



<p><a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test automation</a> plays a pivotal role in enabling effective Root Cause Analysis (RCA) by providing consistent, repeatable, and comprehensive testing processes. In a complex software environment, defects can originate from various sources, such as code changes, integration issues, or configuration discrepancies. Automated tests offer the advantage of executing a wide range of test cases consistently, capturing valuable data points, and allowing rapid <a href="https://testsigma.com/regression-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regression testing</a>. This extensive test coverage generates a wealth of data that can be analyzed during RCA to identify patterns, trends, and potential root causes of failures.</p>



<div class="cta-banner-v2">
<div class="title-with-description ">
<p class="title">Here is a guide with in-depth discussions on the different characteristics of test automation. </p>
</div>
<a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-testing" target="_blank" class="cta-btn-v1" rel="noopener">Check out the guide</a>
</div>



<p>But how do you combine RCA with test automation in real? By making use of a test automation tool that is equipped with capabilities to execute RCA.&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/automation-testing-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test automation tools</a> can help in RCA processes by providing clear and useful reports. For example, Testsigma tool offers customizable reports with screenshots, videos, and logs, and testers can analyse the test failure patterns across test runs over a period of time. Additionally, the tool comes with deugging features to help with quick and efficient debugging.</p>



<p>Try Testsigma <a href="https://testsigma.com/qa-automation-tools" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">QA automation tool</a> to drive your testing efforts 10x faster without spending time on coding complex testing scripts. </p>



<h2 id="h-tips-to-follow-for-performing-effective-rca"><span id="Tips_to_Follow_for_Performing_Effective_RCA">Tips to Follow for Performing Effective RCA</span></h2>



<p>Performing RCA is important, but following the right path for analysis is important. A few tips can take your RCA in testing to the next level:</p>



<ul><li>Collect relevant information such as error logs, test results, user feedback, and system performance metrics to form a solid foundation for your analysis.</li><li>While picking out a test automation tool, make sure it has logging and reporting feature for properly executing RCA.</li><li>Bring together representatives from development, testing, design, and other relevant areas to gain diverse insights and expertise.</li><li>Approach the problem from different angles – technical, process-related, human factors, and external influences – to ensure a comprehensive analysis.</li><li>Not all potential root causes are equal. Use data and impact analysis to prioritize which issues to tackle first for maximum impact.</li><li>Alongside addressing current issues, establish preventive measures to avoid similar problems in future development cycles.</li><li>Utilize established RCA methodologies like the 5 Whys, Fishbone (Ishikawa) Diagrams, or Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to systematically explore potential root causes.</li></ul>



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



<p>Finding a solution to a problem is the right way to handle it, but identifying the root cause of the issue is the best way. Once you know what you are dealing with, the present and future become easier to manage. In software testing as well, fixing a defect will give you instant improvement, but eliminating it fully will eradicate future breakdowns of the system.</p>



<p>Root cause analysis (RCA) in testing is a critical component of uncovering the major reasons behind the malfunctioning of software and making it vanish for the good.</p>



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



<h3 id="what-is-an-rca-tool"><span id="What_is_an_RCA_tool">What is an RCA tool?</span></h3>



<p>An RCA tool in testing is a software solution designed to facilitate the systematic investigation of root causes behind issues arising in software. It provides structured methodologies, data collection, analysis, and collaboration features to enhance the problem-solving process in software testing.</p>



<h3 id="what-are-the-types-of-rca"><span id="What_are_the_types_of_RCA">What are the types of RCA?</span></h3>



<p>In testing, there can be RCA for three types of issues:</p>



<ul><li><strong>Internal issues:</strong> This includes code changes, software/hardware failures, server issues, or any such defects associated with the internal functioning of the system.</li><li><strong>Human-made problems:</strong> Software undergoes frequent modifications, and it is likely that a bug can arise after updates to the system. They would often be due to unintentional errors made by individuals working on the project.</li><li><strong>Communication gap:</strong> If a requirement specification or bug definition gets lost in the hierarchy of the project, it is often contributed as collaboration/communication issue.</li></ul>
