Best Practices for Functional Testing

When a software application is in development, functional testing can be an invaluable part of the evaluation process. Simply put, this form of testing determines the expected functionality of a software product and identifies bugs in the code related to these functions. The importance of verifying that a product is in working order before release is paramount.

Because functional testing is performed from the perspective of the end user, it allows the development team to create test scenarios that are indicative of real-world use cases. The more detailed the user specifications, the better the testing outcome.

Not only does functional testing streamline the development process and improve the quality of the software upon release, but it also leads to a more satisfied customer.

Carrying out functional testing is relatively straightforward. All product functions are tested by providing inputs, observing, and documenting the output and then comparing the results with the testing goals.

There are several procedures that could prove effective when performing functional testing. Here are some best practices:

Tackle high risk & complex test cases first. When incorporating manual testing, it’s best to prioritize high risk and complex test cases. These cases tend to be the ones that need human insight, and if an issue is discovered, they can be escalated accordingly.

Develop reusable test cases. It can be a lengthy process to develop test cases, making them reusable helps to spare time and reduce complexity. Be sure to write simple, direct instructions that are easy to comprehend and execute.

Embrace automation. While all tests can’t be automated, there will surely be opportunities, which can make it easier to run tests more often and save time in the development process.

Document everything. This is a critical aspect of testing; documentation is necessary to track issues. Reporting is also a huge help to other teams, as it allows them to understand what bugs have been identified and how to fix them.   

Tying into the importance of documentation—creating a checklist before beginning a test can be a great organizational tool. This also helps to track progress across the testing cycles.

Keep the following in mind:

• Determine a clear testing objective
• Ensure all testers understand the product requirements and specs
• Create a roadmap or test strategy for testers to follow
• Keep the end user perspective in mind at all times
• Prioritize and test the most crucial product features first
• Maintain detailed documentation throughout the test cases
• Incorporate automation and tools to supplement your people power

To learn more about how we can help you with functional testing, sign up for a free demo.