Agile Testing Principles and Practices

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Agile testing is software testing in which you follow the principles of Agile software development. It involves all members of a cross-functional Agile team to deliver business value to the customer, at frequent intervals (typically between 2 weeks and 2 months). Agile testing uses various test types and techniques like test-driven development, behavior-driven development, and continuous testing.

Agile Testing Examples

• A web application team uses test-driven development (TDD) to write automated unit tests before coding each user story. They frequently run tests to ensure code quality and functionality. The team also applies behavior-driven development (BDD) to write acceptance tests using a natural language syntax (called Gherkin) to align with customers language.
• A mobile app team practices continuous testing by running automated tests on every code change using a continuous integration tool. They simulate different mobile devices using a device virtualization tool and perform tests on real devices in different geographical locations using a cloud-based testing service. Test results and metrics are monitored through a dashboard.
• A cloud-based application team uses service virtualization to test the application. They create and use virtual services that simulate real web services using a service virtualization tool (Postman). Performance testing using a tool (JMeter) determines scalability and reliability under different load conditions.
• A desktop application team does exploratory testing to test new features and functionalities without predefined test cases or scripts. They prioritize testing based on complexity and importance using a risk-based approach. Customer feedback is collected through a feedback tool.

Tips for Agile Testing

• Follow Agile testing best practices like short feedback iterations, testing alongside development, involving all team members, and using lightweight documentation.
• Per your test plan, apply test techniques like test-driven development, behavior-driven development, continuous testing, exploratory testing, parallel testing, cross-browser testing, regression testing, or performance testing to increase testing coverage and efficiency.
• Focus on relevant testing metrics to measure and monitor the progress and quality of Agile testing.

FAQ (interview questions and answers)

1. What is the purpose of Agile testing?
   The purpose of Agile testing is to deliver business value desired by the customer at frequent intervals, working at a sustainable pace.
2. What are the benefits of Agile testing?
   Agile testing helps determine the quality of software, enhances communication and collaboration among testers and team members, and supports continuous improvement of the software.
3. What are the challenges of Agile testing?
   Testers face challenges such as changing requirements requiring test design updates, fast project pace, and the need for frequent interactions with team members, clients and end users.

Remember to just comment if you have any doubts or queries.