Any product or service is created with end users in mind. The target is to give the best user experience for the success of the product. And that makes user acceptance testing (UAT) one of the most crucial types of software testing. As the name suggests, UAT focuses on ensuring that the software app meets the specific needs and requirements of end users.
The goal of this testing is to make sure that the software is ready for release and that it will perform according to expectations when finally used by people.
Mobile app user acceptance testing is generally conducted towards the end of the software development life cycle (SDLC) and from the perspective of end users.
Potential issues and usability concerns are identified that might impact UX. Mobile App Acceptance Testing involves end users or their representatives in the testing process to allow testers to gather valuable information regarding the app’s usability, functionality, and alignment with user’s needs.
This article highlights tips for conducting effective mobile application acceptance testing. Let’s read on to find more.
Tips To Perform Mobile App Acceptance Testing
- Lay Out the Basic Plan
The first step in any testing process entails defining the scope and requirements of the testing. The process outlines the plans and preparations, i.e., specific features and functionalities that the app must have been identified along with the expected user needs and requirements.
- Engage End Users and Key Stakeholders
These are the people you have developed your software application for. So, identifying the key stakeholders (and their roles) in the testing process is essential for its success. The Stakeholders will include people like end users, project managers, QA teams, developers, etc. Each stakeholder gets assigned a distinct and specific role in the testing process, which could entail offering inputs, performing tests, assessing outcomes, etc.
Involving these people will also help you get valuable feedback and unique insights into the overall UX, helping you align the product with user needs.
- Create a User Acceptance Testing Plan
As mentioned above, the testing process is generally conducted at the end stage of SDLC and prior to the software’s release in the market. Developers and testers are already under enormous pressure to meet deadlines. There is also excitement to see the user’s response with respect to the software product.
Therefore, planning the testing process at this stage might make you miss out on crucial and frequent real-life use cases. You might face other constraints, like resource availability, at this stage if you don’t plan well in advance.
- Design Realistic and Relevant Test Cases
Another tip that will help you be effective in the mobile application acceptance testing process is preparing test cases and scenarios in accordance with your business requirements. It will help you target your end users much more efficiently.
- Define the Acceptance Criteria Clearly
It is imperative to have clear and well-defined acceptance criteria when conducting Mobile App Acceptance Testing, avoidance of which can lead to several issues like –
- Confusion and Misunderstanding
Unclear criteria can result in users getting confused about what is expected during the testing process. It can lead to subpar testing practices. It may also cause misunderstanding and miscommunication between the testing team and end users, leading to time and effort wastage as developers might have to rework the software to meet the needs.
- Delays and Cost Overruns
The misunderstandings and confusion will ultimately lead to delays in the testing process, which would ultimately mean project delays with longer and delayed delivery time. A prolonged testing period and rework would also mean cost overruns.
- Use Blend of Manual and Automated Testing Techniques
Manual and automated testing techniques both have their pros and cons.
The manual UAT technique offers benefits like –
- Actual testers get to run complex and subjective test scripts and requirements.
- The process can identify defects, issues, and solutions, whereas automated testing gives you binary results.
Automated UAT techniques offer benefits like –
- Quick and repeated tests without tester availability.
- The process offers high reusability, accuracy, and availability.
It is wise to use the strength of both testing techniques to enhance the delivery of software apps. Both methods can complement each other. For instance, the organization can be done in a way that simple and repetitive tasks are run through automated UAT, and nuanced tasks are done manually.
- Document Improvement and Feedback
User acceptance testing is a continuing process that needs regular enhancements and feedback from testers, key stakeholders, and end users.
Through constant feedback and implementing those suggestions, testers can refine and improve the application and ensure it meets user expectations and demands. It leads to continuous learning and upgrading. It can result in a higher-quality final software product.
Benefits of UAT
- Effective and efficient customer workflows.
- Improved end-user experience and better satisfaction with the end product.
- Fewer defects are detected in production, which leads to less downtime and higher reliability and productivity.
- Decrease in customer service tickets and support costs.
To Sum It Up
User acceptance testing is a crucial testing process type to ensure the quality and usability of software apps. After investing a lot of time and resources into the development cycle, UAT is your last line of defense. It helps businesses ensure a positive user experience by identifying and fixing issues prior to the product’s release to the market.
Following the tips will help businesses maximize the efficiency of their user acceptance testing process.If you seek a reliable and efficient Mobile App Testing Company to conduct your acceptance tests – we offer the perfect solution. PixelQA take pride in delivering quality Mobile App Testing Services, which will help you to release a quality product in the market.
