10 Software Testing Trends To Watch Out For in 2021
As companies across the globe are adopting early testing in the software development lifecycle, the field of QA is ever evolving. Innovative emerging technologies like big data, artificial intelligence, IoT, and machine learning are being incorporated to achieve progressive results and stay ahead in the software game.
So, what does the future of software testing look like? This blog post covers the top 10 software testing trends of 2021 that will give you the answer.
Let’s jump right in.
Top 10 Software Testing Trends
- Codeless Automated Testing (CAT)
Codeless automated testing is done using tools built on sophisticated AI technology and visual modeling. These tools help create test case scenarios without any coding that results in increased test speed and efficiency. The test cases performed are clear, easy to review, and require less human effort. Thus helping empower non-technical stakeholders and save resources.
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
According to the World Economic Forum, Artificial Intelligence is the key driver of the fourth industrial revolution. The demand and usage of AI continue to grow with companies trying to utilize it in software development and testing.
The advances in Machine learning are revolutionizing technology by predicting tasks through algorithms and complex neural networks. AI and ML are improving efficiency by automating manual testing tasks and reducing test maintenance.
- Big Data and Internet of Things (IoT) Testing
With the expansion of 4G and 5G networks, the number of interconnected devices is increasing rapidly. Companies now need an effective IoT testing strategy to test the software of these devices for security, connectivity, reliability, analytics, processors, operating systems, and more.
Furthermore, the increase in IoT apps has also increased the volume of big data. Companies need big data testing to cope up with it properly. Big data tests help maintain the accuracy, integrity, and quality of data required to make business decisions and build marketing strategies.
- Agile and DevOps Testing
Agile methodology is about developing speedy solutions with reduced rates and improved efficiency. Agile testing depends on automation to help accelerate the QA procedures.
DevOps merge development and operations to manage end-to-end processes and reduce the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). Thus, both agile and DevOps help minimize the time from development to delivery while improving the products’ quality.
- Mobile Application Automated Testing
According to GlobeNewswire, the mobile application market is estimated to value $408.13 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 18.6%. Mobile gadgets and apps are booming, paving the way for test automation for mobile applications.
Since mobile apps have to be tested across various operating systems and devices, mobile automation testing becomes crucial. The increased competition among app developers and focus on improving user experience also add to the rise of this trend worldwide.
- Blockchain Testing
Blockchain is a groundbreaking technology used in various business fields ranging from finance to automotive, supply chain management and even government services. Its decentralized data structure involves complex procedures like encryption, decryption, and transmission, making it an incorruptible digital ledger.
Blockchain is a highly secure and reliable technology but it comes with its own debugging challenges. Hence, blockchain testing is needed to ensure efficient and effective solution delivery.
- Cybersecurity and Risk Compliance Testing
The digital revolution has brought many cybersecurity threats with it. Security testing of applications, systems, and networks is becoming increasingly important for businesses to ensure total protection.
The increasing awareness of security among users regarding their personal data has also contributed to this trend. Furthermore, cybersecurity testing helps execute security checks early in the SDLC. Thus improving product security and preventing future damages.
- Performance Engineering
Product performance is vital for ensuring a good user experience. With companies focusing on the customer-centric approach, performance testing goals have evolved to performance engineering.
It involves the collaboration of software and hardware along with measures like usability, configuration, and security. Performance engineering also confirms the integrity and quality of applications rapidly deployed by the DevOps team.
- Rising Significance of QAOps
QAOps bring operations, testers, and developers together. It involves testing with Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery (CI/CD) and QA activities to achieve quality and quick delivery.
As the primary focus of DevOps is to cut down the system development life cycle, this approach brings collaboration between developers and the operations team. QAOps also helps improve communication between testing and development and reduces silos in organizations.
- Incorporation of Manual and Automation Testing
Though automation tests have numerous benefits, they cannot replace manual testing completely. The best way forward is a combination of these two that helps increase productivity and reduce costs.
Automation can augment the speed, accuracy, and efficiency of software testing while manual testing can take over other components like user experience, design, and usability. Incorporating both these techniques in a harmonious balance can help enhance overall outcomes.
Conclusion These testing trends are proof that the QA is becoming more important than ever. IT companies desperately need QA professionals with specific domain skills to implement these technologies. This opens the door to many opportunities for QA enthusiasts. If you happen to be one, then check out our QA Beginner’s course aimed at building your testing skills to kickstart an exciting career in this field.