Building a mobile application is a complex task as there are a number of steps involved. However, development is just one part of the picture as there is a need to ensure that the app created meets the quality standards and performs flawlessly. The app cannot be released unless it fulfills these parameters because a flawed experience translates into lost customers and business. Therefore, the significance of mobile app testing as a part of the development cycle cannot be overemphasized. Even though testing is absolutely indispensable, it is critical to adopt the right approach towards it. There is a need to ensure that you get high-quality output yet do not end up wasting time and money on this process. Here, it becomes important to understand the testing methodologies and identify the mix that would work in your case. Primarily, there are two testing methodologies that app developers use- manual testing and automated testing. Let us understand both of them.
Manual Testing
Manual testing, as the name implies, is done by a human tester who is responsible for checking the various parameters of the app’s interface and user experience. Testing manually encompasses seeing the size and placements of the elements and color combinations, as well as testing actions such as app launch, login, and search. The role of the human tester is the same as that of a real user who tries to detect the issues with performance, loading, or battery drainage and fix them before the application is released.
Manual testing is reliable as it replicates the real user experiences for real users. It is ideal for handling more complicated use-case scenarios that require human judgment. Moreover, app crashes are easy to identify and deal with when testing is done by human testers. This methodology works for small projects as it is faster and cost-effective. On the downside, it may lack accuracy because of human errors. Test cases may be tedious and can put pressure on human resources.
Automated Testing
Automated testing, on the other hand, involves the execution of pre-scripted tests on the app before it is released. Automation is apt for running repetitive tests that need to be done on a periodic basis for early detection of bugs. In contrast to manual testing that focuses on checking the user experience, automation is inclined towards testing the functionalities. It is useful for driving agility in the detection of flaws. Moreover, it enables you to test the application simultaneously on multiple devices.
Automated testing serves as a scalable and cost-efficient methodology for assuring the quality of larger mobile apps over a period of time. It is capable of running multiple tests at the same time and performing tedious tasks effortlessly. However, it may not be right for testing the user experience factors that require real human interaction. The codes and configurations of the automated test script are dependent on the app’s interface and features. Automation is not relevant for small-scale mobile apps as it can be slow and wasteful in this case.
Manual Testing v/s Automated Testing: Finding the right approach
Finding the right approach towards these methodologies can be a challenge for a mobile app development company but the choice depends on the type of app that is in question.
Manual testing is the preferred option in the following cases:
Usability Testing: It requires human observation and judgment to determine the user-friendliness of the app.
Exploratory Testing: The app parameters are to be evaluated on the basis of knowledge, experience, analysis, intuition, and creativity.
Ad-hoc Testing: Any unplanned testing which required the insight and understanding of a human tester falls under ad-hoc testing.
Automated testing is relevant in the following scenarios:
Regression Testing: Regression testing is required to deal with frequent code changes in the app.
Performance Testing: Automation is helpful for evaluating the app’s speed and performance against numerous concurrent users.
Repeated Execution: Another scenario in which automation is apt is for tasks that are to be executed repetitively.
Integrated Approach, as the name suggests, brings a combination of the manual and automated testing methodologies. The purpose of going integrated is to maximize the reliability and efficiency as well as minimize the cost and time of testing. The ratio that a majority of developers use is 20% manual testing and 80% automated testing, though it may vary depending on individual app requirements.
Conclusion
Joining hands with a reliable application development partner helps you to get the apps that are well-tested so that they adhere to the highest quality standards. At Mobibiz, we are a leading name in the field of iPhone and Android App Development Services. We not only create custom mobile apps that match the client’s requirements but also take a proven approach to test them so that they excel in every way.
