Introduction
Modern development has led to several types of testing that have proven beneficial for software in the market. SaaS testing is such a method of software delivery that consists of a set of testing methodologies and processes that eliminates the effort and time spent on updating and maintaining automation systems. In simpler terms, it delivers applications and uses them from any device with an internet connection. It is also to consider that it is a service model of development function and is also driven by differences in how software is delivered compared to the traditional software delivery system. It is also considered a cloud-based delivery system for software that is licensed based on subscription.
What is SaaS testing?
It stands for Software-as-a-Service, which is one of the significant trends in the current software market. On-demand software that inadvertently reduces the risk and cost of operation and uses cloud computing environments. SaaS began gaining momentum in the late 2000s, focusing itself on the healthcare and HR market, and as the testing bandwidth increased, the SaaS platform grew into a powerhouse today. It involves a lot of data testing, security, maintaining privacy, business logic, user interface compatibility, data integration, optimization of testing, scalability, and growth are also kept in check. It can all be accessed through an internet connection on a web browser. Such testing has shorter cycles because of the architectural model, which is very different from the traditional software delivery system and includes agile methods because of the speed of delivery. Usage of automation tools builds regression that helps organizations bring in business values and validate the impact of their progress. Through the SaaS method, software vendors can maintain a database, manage the servers, and building codes that make an application successful.
Challenges faced by SaaS testing
Despite having multiple positive reviews, some consumers find some faults and errors in SaaS testing. Although the challenges depend upon the type of client/software companies are dealing with, we shall see here some common challenges faced –
1. Security-
Testing comes with many issues related to configuration and customization, which, afterward, can be very difficult to maintain. A potential team is needed that manages the task. There is always the risk of some error or faults in the security aspect, and sometimes, privacy can be at risk. The principle is maintaining data security and integrity. SaaS security testing is more complex, and the privacy requirements and privilege levels have very different behavioral patterns that don’t comply with SaaS testing. Such testing can eliminate vulnerabilities related to the application if companies include typical web pages security issues and make a proper SQA plan. To ensure that all the loopholes are eliminated, validation of data security and privacy is a must.
2. Update problem–
With SaaS testing, companies have to constantly update their software application as new updates are released now and then and sometimes within a short period. It so happens that the version of the app is fundamental to get updated, and otherwise, it might stop working or have glitches. Hence the previous testing done on the application will be of no use because an update in an application can change so much. A QA plan should focus on the elements to be tested, automated test cases, handling field feedback, managing the automated testing system, and completing the overall process. Updating a software application is not as easy as an update on a cellphone, as it requires much more attention and knowledge to upgrade it and meet the company’s standards in the market.
3. Rules and regulations-
Whenever a new product or service is launched in a company for the audience, it has to undergo several procedures before officially being sold to the public/consumers. The problem with SAAS testing is that it needs to be upgraded even after the application is made. After the software companies boost the entire application, it has to go through the same procedure of rules and regulations, which becomes a tedious task for the software company and the software application company. They need to test all the licensing factors that depend upon the number of users, functionality, and application usage. It becomes very comprehensive for the companies to follow all these procedures because compliance with the government regulations and other standards needs a strategy that some companies lack.
4. Fixing bugs after updates-
The real problem with SaaS testing lies in the updates, and the reason being that frequent releases of new features make the SaaS application rich. Still, over time, it also creates some cool features that are very difficult for the company to cope with. New updates can sometimes cause glitches and bugs that need to be solved. If such bugs are not solved in time, it can delay the licensing procedure that can affect the market quality of the product. Formulating a comprehensive strategy covering functional performance and security requirements helps in faster validation and minimizes risks.
Closing Thoughts
At HikeQA, we have a team of engineers constantly making sure to providing with only the best. Though SaaS testing tools come with a unique set of challenges, and sometimes testing can become a difficult task, if employed in a team, it can result in better growth for the company.
