Software is everywhere. Chances are you’re relying on several pieces of software right now, either on your phone or personal computer. In fact, so much of our lives involves the utilization of various software that we barely even think about it.
One of the few things that get us noticing the software itself rather than the content it delivers or the function it provides is when it doesn’t work. Glitchy apps and buggy software can drive even the most patient and stoic among us to huff and puff in anger and frustration.
With this in mind, we figured it’d be helpful to highlight the importance of good software testing. Only with the utilization of proven methods of testing can software developers hope to provide consumers with a superior product.
Here are several reasons why good software testing is essential:
Quality control
The number one objective of software testing is to ensure a quality product. Only by having a third-party tester explore the application in all its functions and forms can software developers determine the true capabilities of the product. It’s also the only way to prevent major bugs from making it all the way to release.
Improved performance
An offshoot of quality control is the ability to see where things could be better. When software undergoes Agile testing – which is when tests work in tandem with development – companies are conscious of improved performance possibilities. Such insights might otherwise be difficult to see and act upon.
Anticipated updates
Software is never flawless. With ever-evolving security threats and inevitable platform changes, applications have to be malleable for the sake of updates down the road. This kind of adjustability depends on future-thinking planning during the development process. This is achieved by testing the software inside and out, which helps developers see where changes can be implemented when needed.
Desire path detection
Getting into the mind of the user is an important part of the software development process. However, developers can’t always anticipate how the average user will interact with their product. Using outside software testing services helps developers detect any desire paths a user might choose to take. From there, they can decide whether or not to adjust to the user’s preferences.
Investor reassurance
One of the more commonly overlooked benefits of good software testing is its influence in the boardroom. Investors are understandably nervous about unproven products still in development. Showcasing the results of software testing allows companies to reassure their investors. This is true even if the test results are not ideal; developers can outline their path forward for fixing the issues revealed during testing. This kind of problem-solving lets investors know the company is capable of powering through challenges.
Most people never think about the software they’re using until it starts to give them trouble. While this might sound like thankless work for developers, the truth is they’re happy when users don’t look past the content and function of their products. But in order for this to occur, the software has to undergo testing during the development process. This ensures the final product does what the user wants it to and doesn’t give them trouble.
