In this environment of constant hacking and piracy, the ability to make adjustments to programming quickly can be the difference between success and failure. But while programmers can often develop code in short order, there is no way to be sure that it is any better than the old code until the new programming is tested. Just as vaccines must be tested for efficacy and safety, so most programming be proven safe for use.

And testing takes time. Every possible scenario must be tried and the programming evaluated. To get through this gauntlet in a timely fashion, it’s clear that the programmer with the most effective testing practices stands the best chance of patching holes and improving products in a timely fashion while simultaneously avoiding creating further weaknesses.

A strong system of programming testing features several main components. In their test automation strategy, Tricentis emphasizes optimization and management, which has allowed their Tosca Testsuite to help companies reach 95% test automation.

A Broad Base of Inputs

Internally, programmers look for the flaws in their own products with great vigilance. But it isn’t enough to examine stability and security. There is also a great need for input from end users. What do they like? What falls short of expectations? Gathering this data can be very challenging, and assimilating it into a cohesive package of system upgrades piles time onto time in the product development process and amplifies the need for rapid testing of changes. Tied directly with this capability is the interoperability of the testing system with source data from client surveys and other user data; the faster the feedback can be added to the evaluation process, the faster a satisfied customer sees the desired product.

Rapid Evaluation

That brings up the next step. Testing systems must be able to consume data from both ends of the production chain and check this interface on many levels with high speed. Like a frontier safe cracker, programmers must be able to carefully examine all possible options and determine which ones work and which ones lead to failures and problems. But just as those Wild West bank robbers often had local law enforcement just a few steps behind, modern programmers are likewise under the gun. The firm that puts out ever-better products reliably and quickly gains a decided edge over those who get bogged down in testing processes. A good system moves quickly and accurately through this stage.

Multiple Platforms

Many times, high-profile systems still don’t have a large market share. Effective testing protocols must be capable of passing the test under many different platforms and operating systems. These processes must be able not just to adapt to differing computer systems but must also anticipate the different goals of the various users on these systems, as well as assimilating the unique characteristics of the particular system and tailoring product upgrades to match well with the way it operates.

Technology evolves with incredible speed. For decades, it’s been true that many hardware products are obsolete before they hit the shelves. The process of evaluating, testing, and improving all technology creates this anachronism as a necessary and effective way to get quality products into the hands of users quickly and effectively.