7 testing trends that will shape the future of QA in the year 2020
The entire software development industry has evolved over the years and new technologies continue to make it a dynamic field. Whether it is designing, developing or maintaining software services, there have been several disruptive advancements that make it easier and relevant for the professionals involved. Let us take the example of software testing. Testing forms a significant part as it ensures that the final solution is foolproof and user-efficient.
QA challenges are manifold and it is ideal to be aware of the trends in order to provide the best services to the respective customers. In the following lines, we have listed 7 trends which are on their way to becoming a huge part of software testing in 2020:
AI and ML - AI testing is meant to remove any loopholes in testing. It is a process that prevents any oversights in the process. It is more extensive when compared to other tools. Furthermore, it saves time and is cost-effective since it reduces human intervention. Machine Learning is yet another tool that processes the available data faster and better. The machine learns to pick up any discrepancies or identify bugs based on the information that is made available.
Agile and DevOps - An extension of the Agile software development process, DevOps is the most sought after solution that follows an end-to-end methodology. A combination of Agile and DevOps is one that every software development company seeks. Agile has several approaches combined in one, and is the most popular amongst those service providers who wish to offer quality solutions. Since each approach is unique and has specific features of its own, Agile is effectual in most of the client requirements. It ensures that all the functionalities are checked without any misses. The effort and time taken are also lesser when compared to other tools. Upon combination with DevOps, it becomes doubly ‘agile’ and is able to offer future-ready services.
Test Automation - Typically, testing occurs after the software solution is developed. However, as more and more service providers are taking up DevOps, it becomes essential to offer high quality solutions at every stage of development. In such a scenario, Test Automation is ideal. The idea behind it is to test chunks of data and/or functionality rather than doing it as a whole. This ensures that everything is looked at, and there are no compromises in the quality of the end result. It is a continuous process and hence, should be performed on a real-time basis to prevent any delays. Automation is the right way to go forward as it saves time and effort. With a major part of the testing accomplished by machines, there is minimal human intervention needed.
Big Data Testing- As far as software development is concerned, the field has seen a number of advancements and there is a constant need to offer the most relevant and safest solutions to the users. For this to be established, there has to be a streamlined process in place which takes the end-users' needs into account and helps create the best results. Big Data is one such trend that is being incorporated into software solutions by companies from around the world. In order to make sure that these services are ideal for the evolving needs of customers, QA testing in Big Data is key. It helps in analyzing large chunks of data and comes up with user-trends over a certain time period, which enables companies to create the ideal solutions for their target audiences’.
IoT Testing - Simply put, the testing of IoT devices is IoT testing. Whether it is software testing, security, healthcare or wearable devices, the future is based on IoT. A larger number of people are relying on such tools for their day-to-day needs and hence, companies need to undertake the most-relevant testing processes for the best user-experience. Varied aspects such as functionality, security and compatibility, amongst others, can be effectively tested using this methodology.
Automation in mobile testing - Every product/service offering is available in the form of a mobile app. People are relying more on portable devices for their personal as well as professional needs. Testing these apps is equally significant as in software development. Using automation tools in this realm can reduce the time considerably and ensure that there are no misses that may arise out of human errors.
Security testing - Cyber-security is of paramount importance. Cyber-threats are one of the most prevalent risks that are faced by users worldwide. Making sure that software solutions are free from all security risks is key to their respective successes. A lot of sensitive information gets passed from one entity to the other on several online platforms. Keeping this safe from any third party intrusions or attacks is indispensable. With the help of security testing, such risks can be mitigated. Using the apt tools, the chances of users' information being privy to hackers is minimized greatly. Therefore, this is an aspect that cannot be ignored by businesses.
In the recent Automation Guild, all the above 7 trends were deemed necessary and most of the software development projects planned for 2020 are imbibing them in their solutions.