Software testing at Christmas
The festive season is upon us and so we turn our attention towards software testing at Christmas. Indeed, with almost 50% of all gifts being purchased online in the US alone, testing is incredibly important. Retailers need to make sure that they are ready and able to serve this huge demand.
The user journey is key
Testing must be deployed to verify all test scenarios related to user experience (UX). The entire journey from initial selection through to check-out should be a smooth, satisfying one. Above all else, it must be secure. The last thing any retailer wants is for their reputation to be damaged. This is especially true at a time when any website failure is likely to be magnified – such as Christmas. Here then are some key tips to bear in mind:
- Carry out performance testing well before going into production
- This is especially crucial if your website has had previous technical issues
- Plan enough time in your testing schedule to allow for bug fixes
- Test for cross-platform compatibility
- Place great emphasis on mobile shoppers as these have increased greatly in recent years
- Those with e-commerce websites and web applications should ensure they are tested across different platforms (mobile, tablets etc.)
Performance testing on infrastructure
We would suggest that you choose which type of infrastructure to test based upon carefully considered criteria. For example, you may opt to test one that is currently in production. You must then select the best time to run your tests, which we have found to be at late hours when user numbers are likely to be a lot smaller. This is also where an internationally-based outsourced software testing team can be particularly useful.
Select key functionalities to test
Time is always a crucial aspect in the testing process. Those testing with Christmas in mind then will need to pay even more attention to what they are testing. It might be that you do not have the time to test all functionalities. Therefore those which will be used more must be prioritised.
Security is key
Security testing is of paramount importance. The first step to take is to ensure that your SSL certificate is up-to-date. E-commerce websites should have additional layers of security, too. As part of theICEway ecosystem of companies, eTestware adheres to a security by design ethos.
Cyber security is a constantly growing field, this due in no small part to the mass adoption of new technology. Just ask our friends at CRIBB Cyber Security if you would like to learn more or need help in becoming more cyber aware.
Software testing at Christmas is essential and with the proper planning, it can be very fruitful indeed. If you are a retailer and have completed testing on your own systems and websites, then congratulations. You should still be thinking about doing the same for Christmas 2022 though! Contact us to find out how our software testing experts can help give you quality assurance.