One of the top priorities for any software company is to provide high-quality software with unique and new features. However, no organization can guarantee its quality and feasibility for its clients unless the software and its components are tested under various conditions. There are numerous testing approaches to address different components of the software development life cycle. E2E Testing is a widespread technique among developers and testers.
What exactly is end-to-end testing?
It is a method for testing an application from beginning to end and its dependencies. A real-world user scenario is reproduced, and the application is tested from the user’s point of view. The goal is to determine whether the application behaves as intended and whether the integrity of the various system components is preserved. If any of these sub-components fails, the entire system fails. This is a significant risk in software development that can be avoided by using this testing procedure.
End-to-End Testing (E2E Testing) Methodology
This testing can be done in two ways: vertically or horizontally. Horizontal testing is more prevalent and widely used. Vertical testing is performed when important components of a sophisticated computing system that do not involve users or interfaces must be tested. Both types assist you in achieving the same goal, but each has its own set of requirements and benefits.
End-to-End Horizontal Testing
In horizontal testing, the end user’s perspective is taken into account. It determines if the user can browse the software and perform its functionalities as planned.
End-to-End Vertical Testing
Vertical testing is performed in layers or levels, which means that the tests are performed in sequential or hierarchical order. Each system’s subcomponent is examined from start to finish to ensure quality. It is typically used when the system lacks a UI or when the UI has a high level of complexity.
Frameworks for End-to-End Testing
Selenium
Selenium is one of the most well-known and commonly used E2E testing frameworks. It offers a collection of automation tools and packages for various programming languages. This functionality benefits the testing community by allowing them to test the software in the language in which they are most comfortable. It also includes a large range of capabilities that allow you to imitate practically any user’s action. The nicest thing is that it can run parallel and be integrated with different frameworks.
Testim
Many testers prefer Testim because it is a simple yet sophisticated framework. It has a simple user interface and runs tests using complicated algorithms and AI. Testim may be used to test complicated dynamic applications utilizing AI when other frameworks fail. It supports parallel execution as well as interoperability with other frameworks.
Cucumber
Cucumber emphasizes behavior-driven development and enables you to test the product from the standpoint of many stakeholders. Its appeal stems primarily from its employing Gherkin, which is quite comparable to writing code in English. Cucumber is the solution for individuals who dislike using sophisticated programming languages. This functionality also enables non-technical users to create and comprehend test scripts.
Cypress
Cypress is another well-known E2E testing framework that works well with apps built with other frameworks. Because the tests in Cypress are written in Javascript, troubleshooting and running them is a breeze. In addition, Cypress enables you to run tests, make changes, and view the changes in real-time, allowing you to develop apps more quickly.
Advantages of End-to-End Testing
Reduction of risk
End-to-end testing is performed on the application after each iteration or sprint. This considerably minimizes the likelihood of future dangers.
Enhanced Confidence
The application’s functionality and performance are extensively verified at each layer. Because this testing is done from the user’s point of view, it boosts confidence in the application’s readiness for public release.
Cost and time savings
Since the application has been completely tested from beginning to end, it does not need to be tested again. This drastically decreases testing costs and time while increasing efficiency in other processes.
Final Thoughts
E2E testing is critical in ensuring that application users have a positive experience. Analyzing the user experience from beginning to end provides greater assurance about the application’s workflow than simply checking if a model appears or a function performs properly. In addition, it’s a low-cost solution to confirm your software functions as you and your users intended.
