Software Testing vs Quality Assurance
A Quick Overview
Software testing is no longer a buzzword, it has become one of the most pivotal concepts in the software development lifecycle. Much like software testing, you must have come across terms such as quality assurance. Many of you have this misconception that both concepts are the same and can be used interchangeably. Well, in one way or the other, both the terms are related but are pretty much different. The following post focuses on what are the two concepts, how are they beneficial, where exactly the difference lies, and whatnot!
The digital realm is evolving now and then, which means it has become pretty important for organizations to ensure that whatever they come up with, whether it is an app or software, has to be extremely reliable, secure, and robust. This happens only when you conduct proper procedures regarding software testing and quality assurance. Now if you perceive the two of them are the same thing, then the following post is right for you! Keep reading!
Software Testing
The following concept can be identified as one of the most crucial methods to check whether the actual software product exceeds the predetermined requirements and make sure overall the product is defect-free. In addition, here professionals are asked to identify defects and inconsistencies just to make sure all the functions are working as they were intended to and successfully meet user requirements. What else does a software tester do?
Design test cases and taking care of test planning
Executing them
Carry out testing as per the defined procedures
Reporting any defects
Work in tandem with software development teams
Prepare status report
Ensure proper interactions with customers
Updating project manager at timely intervals
Execute all the test cases and report
See if everything is carried out as per the defined standards and procedures
So in short, software testing is all about executing the development process by simply finding relevant defects as well as errors. So basically, it is done to verify the functionality of the software developed and see whether it has already met all the pre-decided requirements or not. Some of the core activities conducted in software testing include:
Unit Testing
Functional Testing
Integration Testing
System Testing
Regression Testing
Top characteristics of software testing
The ultimate purpose of software testing is to find relevant issues which are present or issues which can be present in the future in the software just to ensure the overall quality of the product for the long haul.
It is all about enhancing the functionality of the software
Software testers are supposed to conduct precise testing procedures, execute them, report relevant issues and verify fixes.
Both manual tests and automation tests are conducted for fruitful outcomes
After all, it is all about meeting high-quality standards and requirements.
The end report features how many defects are present, a test summary offering both problem and solutions and also recommendations for improvement.
How is Software Testing beneficial in the long run?
Many of you, especially the non-techies, have this misconception that software testing is an additional expense. Well, it is not especially in today’s cut-throat competitive times, I would like to mention some of the common benefits of software testing which certainly outweigh the costs.
Enhanced quality
Of course, when you test a product you are more likely to find errors and bugs so the overall quality of the product automatically gets enhanced. By testing rigorously, errors aren’t just identified but also successfully rectified that too pretty early in the development cycle. In the end, you are bound to develop software that meets user expectations and overall reduces the unnecessary risk of failures or crashes.
Cost-effective
Contrary to what many of you think, software testing is cost-effective now this happens if you care to see the big picture in the end. Of course, there is an upfront cost but in the end, you will see how paying this upfront cost can reduce overall unwanted expenses. So what one needs to do is look out for relevant issues, and identify and fix them. The scope of rework automatically reduces leading to more satisfied customers and getting rid of potential legal implications caused by faulty software
High Security
Another crucial aspect or benefit of software testing is it offers high security. In today’s times, security breaches keep on happening now and then and this is the most vulnerable and sensitive part of the software.
Like it or not, hackers are becoming smarter creating situations where information and details of the users can be easily stolen and used for evil motives. No wonder, people these days are looking for more well-tested and reliable products.
Once a developed software undergoes the testing phase, you can ensure end users that nothing will happen to the information and details they will provide in the app. Everything will be kept safe Users can receive products that are free from vulnerability with the aid of software testing.
Continuous improvement
Another alluring benefit to consider is constant improvement. As we all know software development is not a one-time process it keeps on going in terms of support and maintenance. So thorough testing and feedback take place which means software keeps on improving and updated to keep up with the evolving scenarios.
Competitive Advantage
As mentioned earlier, the market is tough, not being competent enough can give you a hard time since your competitors are at it. One small change can be a game-changer. Right from facilitating faster delivery to reducing the scope of rework, identifying issues early on, and of course, offering relevant measures for continuous improvement, all is included here. With software testing, you are more likely to gain a significant edge.
Now I can simply go on and on with software testing, but now it’s time to focus on quality assurance as well.
Quality Assurance
Quality assurance is conducted for several reasons such as:
Maintaining product integrity
Trustworthiness
Durability
Price
Much like software testing, quality assurance emphasizes on making sure that the developed product meets specific standards and is bug-free. So isn’t it much like software testing, of course not! Quality assurance is done to ensure that the product successfully aligns with both internal and external expectations as well as requirements. So from defining standards to conducting significant audits, facilitating continuous improvements, and ultimately safeguarding customer satisfaction and organizational reputation is what quality assurance is all about.
Now another alluring term which is quite mistaken with quality assurance is quality control. Both QA and QC are pretty closely linked. The difference lies when it comes to managing both products and services. Quality assurance is about planning to prevent possible risks which can significantly affect quality during production whereas quality control is about testing the quality of the output once the product is delivered.
Overall quality assurance is a proactive approach and quality control is more kind of a reactive approach. Now quality assurance works mainly on two principles:
Fit for purpose
Right first time
Top Characteristics of Quality Assurance
The ultimate objective is that the software meets all pre-determined requirements and is defect-free
Implementing processes, procedures, and standards to ensure high quality.
Professionals are asked to monitor the development process, review documentation and of course, audit the product.
Using automation tools and manual inspections
The development process is highly compliant with the current industry standards and regulations.
How is Quality Assurance Beneficial in the Long run?
Much like software testing, quality assurance has become one of the core aspects of the software development lifecycle. Down below I would like to mention the top benefits of considering quality assurance today.
Build Trust
To succeed, you need to build trust brick by brick and to survive in today’s competitive market it is very important. Now do you think delivering high-quality products is all about making a sale? Of course, not! It is about building a relationship and trust pays dividends in the form of loyal customers who sing your praises to anyone who will listen.
Boosts efficiency
The next is to boost efficiency. Now picture this for a while, how does a well-oiled machine behave? Pretty smooth, right? This is what quality assurance is for your developed software. By ensuring top-notch procedures to fine-tune the developed product, you are saving time and resources which boosts the bottom line.
Today’s customer demands more efficiency and this is what quality assurance offers in the end.
Security
The next benefit offered by quality assurance is high-end security. It is all about making products safer and secured by identifying potential hazards as well as vulnerabilities in the developed product. As a result, by ensuring quality assurance, companies can successfully avoid costly litigation, protect their reputation, and ensure the safety of their customers.
Stay competitive & Guard your reputation
Of course, one has to stay competitive, your brand is everything which needs to be guarded. Do you think quality assurance is all about delivering promises, absolutely not! It is also about safeguarding the brand name and offering high-quality products and services. Remember there is a difference between meeting expectations and exceeding them. This is how you can earn rave reviews, develop a rock-solid reputation which can weather any storm and more.
Reduce the Likelihood of Bugs
Both software testing and quality assurance are meant to reduce the likelihood of bugs and errors which does save ample time, and money by getting rid of costly repairs and maintenance.
Conclusion
Now you tell me which one will you pick? Software testing is all about identifying and resolving errors or relevant defects whereas quality assurance is more about preventing errors or defects from entering the software. And software testing is conducted after development takes place whereas quality assurance is done while development is being conducted. So basically both of them are pretty important and have a crucial role to play for conducting a successful development project.
So now you know exactly what software testing and quality assurance is. Whichever role you choose just make sure you hire a professional who has a good understanding of what he needs to do. Also, he can don multiple hats by not just being a performer but a great communicator among testing teams, development teams, clients, and more.
This is all for now! I hope you did find the post worth reading if you have any doubts or queries feel free to mention them in the comment section below. Good luck with your software development project.