As the world becomes more digital, delivering quality digital services is no longer a nice-to-have, but an essential requirement for nearly every organization. A key component to delivering great applications, websites, and more is well-written test cases.
From retail to healthcare, organizations are adopting digital services like websites, applications, chatbots, IoTs, and more to best serve their customers. Software testing plays a major role in one’s ability to deliver high-quality digital services. While the exact method and strategies can differ based on the nature of the product and/or project, the ability to produce thorough test cases is key to guaranteeing the quality of digital services.
ISTQB defines a test case as a set of preconditions, inputs, actions (where applicable), expected results and postconditions, developed based on test conditions
In the context of functional testing, test cases serve as step-by-step instructions that testers follow to validate a specific functionality. The test cases also provide information that allows testers to determine whether the functionality passes or fails the test.
Grouped into test suites, tests cases are commonly associated with scenario testing methodology.
An organization’s ability to offer innovative functionalities and an excellent user experience is often impacted by the strength of its testing approach. Having well-written test cases makes all the difference in allowing IT teams to improve the quality and better manage the project overall.
Having clear test cases that are easy to understand takes less time to review and execute. Since test cases are written by the lead tester, QA manager, or project manager, instead of the actual testers, providing clear and straightforward testing instructions will save team members from having to hold meetings or send multiple emails to clarify any vague or confusing points.
Since each test case is designed to cover a specific functionality, having a robust test suite helps to expand test coverage. Furthermore, reusable test cases also allow for an expanded test coverage by executing the test case using different configurations such as web browsers, operating systems, etc.
When writing test cases, it is important to document both positive and negative scenarios. Providing this information requires a complete understanding of the product or service being tested, which can proactively shed light on any functionality or design gaps.
Whether testing an application or SaaS, it is important for test cases to fully reflect the functionalities that need to be tested. Here are some key elements to include when writing test cases.
To maximize the quality of the entire test suite, verify that each test case is designed to test one functionality. Doing so will help to ensure the accuracy of the test results.
The best test cases are those that are very easy to understand and straightforward. Be sure to avoid creating test cases that include any unnecessary test steps or language that is difficult to understand or can be easily misinterpreted.
When creating the Test suite, avoid making assumptions or guesses when information is unclear. In these instances, it is far better to contact a team member in order to get the right information and avoid unnecessary mistakes later down the road.
It is important to remember that the whole reason for creating test cases is to produce better products for the end-user. As such, each test suite and subsequent test cases must be written with the end-user in mind, with particular attention paid to the ways the product will be used.
To learn more about testing applications, websites, or any other digital service, do not hesitate to download our white paper: Why and How to Test in the Era of Digital Transformation.