How to identify which type of non-functional testing to run
Non-functional characteristics like performance, security and scalability are more likely to determine the long-term value of an IT solution than its functional requirements.
There are many types of non-functional testing available so it can be a daunting task to identify which to rely on for any given project. This blog post will examine the ways in which you can determine which type of non-functional testing you should run for your IT project.
Identify your requirements
The starting point for any IT solution is to ensure you have a clear understanding of what the objectives are before developing and testing software.
Acutest leverages its 20 years’ experience defining and testing non-functional requirements to apply its principle-based approach to quickly understand the scope of non-functional requirements across a vast array of businesses and projects. The business has built a comprehensive catalogue of story-based non-functional requirements which can then be used to identify which requirements are applicable, speeding up the process.
Assess the risks
As the saying goes, don’t be fearful of risks. Understand them and manage and minimise them to an acceptable level. Taking a closer look at the areas of the project which are most likely to cause issues is the next important phase enabling you to identify non-functional testing requirements.
So, if you have an application which is used by a large volume of users, it may be wise to focus on performance testing to ensure that the application can handle the load. For an e-commerce application – security testing may be prioritised to ensure the software is as protected as it can be against cyber-attacks.
Identify which type of non-functional testing is required
Now it’s time to identify the most important areas for testing to focus your efforts on and select the most appropriate approach and toolset. There are a number of types of non-functional testing to choose, based on the requirements you’ve already identified, which includes:
- Usability testing – ensures the software is easy to use and meets the requirements of end users.
- Compatibility testing – checks that the application performs well across a variety of devices, browsers and operating systems.
- Reliability testing – makes sure that the application is reliable and can recover from issues it may encounter.
- Performance testing – checks whether the software can handle high numbers of users.
- Security testing – ensuring the application is secure from cyber-attacks.
- Scalability testing – ensures an application can handle an increase in the number of users or volume of data.
For times when additional resource and expertise is required, Acutest’s experienced team of consultants are well equipped to scope, plan, manage and carry out all types of non-functional testing – providing assurance resource to ensure an application is robust and able to withstand challenges prior to launch.
Learn more about non-functional testing with our Principal Consultant, Trevor Edwards, at the Ask the Acutest experts video series:
For more information or to speak to an Acutest consultant please visit Non-Functional Testing and Assurance
