Software Testing Trends 2024: What to look out for
Around this time last year, we looked at testing trends we felt might emerge strongly in 2023. We’re doing the same now but for the coming 12 month period, so join us as we explore ‘software testing trends 2024’.
2023 Update
Almost 12 months ago to the day, we made the following predictions in ‘Software testing trends to watch out for in 2023‘:
- There would be an increased use of automation tools and techniques in software testing
- Shift-left testing would be deployed to a greater extent
- We would see a growth in cloud-based testing
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) would play a much bigger role in testing
- Performance testing would grow in importance
- Security testing would remain critical
How did those predictions work out? We may well revisit each one in greater detail in the weeks ahead but for now, let’s just say they were indeed prominent! Did any of you encounter the growth mentioned above in your own software testing efforts? If so, or even if not, then we would love to hear from you.
2024
In the dynamic landscape of software development, keeping up with the latest trends is crucial. Those who do not will surely struggle to ensure the delivery of high-quality software products. This year, there are many exciting trends poised to shape the field of software testing. What should you look out for?
AI and ML in Test Automation
The incorporation of AI and ML into software testing processes is gaining ever more momentum. AI and ML algorithms are being used to optimise test case selection and more. Testers are turning to this innovative tech to identify patterns in testing data, and to enhance the efficiency of automated testing. This is expected to reduce testing efforts and improve test coverage, as testing tools adapt and learn from evolving software systems.
Shift-Left Testing Approach
This approach involves integrating testing activities earlier in the software development lifecycle. This subsequently allows for defects and issues to be identified and resolved at an earlier stage, leading to significant cost savings. We correctly predicted that shift-left testing would grow in 2023, and we believe that organisations will continue to adopt it this year. Those doing so successfully can expect improved collaboration between development and testing teams. They can also then hope for more efficient and robust software development processes.
Security Testing as a Priority
Cyber security threats continue to evolve, making security testing an indispensable part of the software development lifecycle. Last year, we correctly predicted that security testing would continue to be critical. In 2024, it is likely that there will be an increased focus on integrating it early on in the development process. This involves identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities, ensuring data privacy, and fortifying applications against potential cyber-threats. We’d go so far as to say that security testing will no longer be a standalone activity. Instead, it will be an integral part of the overall testing strategy.
Continuous Testing in DevOps
DevOps practices are becoming more ingrained in software development and continuous testing is a crucial component of the DevOps pipeline. It ensures that each code change is thoroughly tested before deployment, so we believe that 2024 will see the trend of integrating continuous testing into DevOps workflows gaining further traction.
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in Testing
RPA is set to extend its influence into software testing this year. In particular, it is likely to affect processes involving repetitive and rule-based tasks. Software testers will be expected to leverage RPA to automate mundane testing activities. This will then allow human testers to focus on more complex and creative aspects of testing.
Conclusion
We hope you’ll agree that ‘Software Testing Trends 2024’ reveal the year to be a potentially exciting one in software testing. There are many emerging trends that are set to enhance the quality and efficiency of software development processes. Of those listed, which do you believe will be the most prominent? Did we miss anything out? Get in touch and let us know!