Performance testing falls within the wide and interesting gamut of software testing, and the aim of this form of testing is to ascertain how the system functions under defined load conditions. This form of testing focuses on the performance of the system based on standards and benchmarks, and is not about uncovering defects / bugs. As a leading Performance Testing Services Company we understand the importance of this type of testing in providing problem solving information to help with removing system blocks. Test execution and result analysis are the two sub-phases within the performance test plan, which encompasses comprehensive information of all the tests that would be executed (as mentioned below) within performance testing.
Defining Test Execution within Performance Testing
Test execution within performance testing denotes testing with the help of performance testing tools, and includes tests such as load test, soak test, stress test, spike test and others. There are several activities that are performed within test execution. These include – implementation of the pre-determined performance test, evaluation of the test result, verification of the result against the predefined non-functional requirements (NFRs), preparation of a provisional performance test report, and finally a decision to end or repeat the test cycle basis the provisional report.
Our team has years of experience in performance testing services, and includes experts who consistently execute tests within the timelines specified for test completion. A structured approach is quintessential to the success of test execution within performance testing. Once the tests are underway, the testers must consistently study the stats and graphs that figure on the live monitors of the testing tool being used.
It is important that the testers pay close attention to the performance metrics such as the number of active users, transactions and hits per second. Metrics such as throughput, error count and type, and more also need to be closely monitored, while also examining the ‘behavior’ of users against a pre-determined workload. Finally, the test must halt properly and the test results should be appropriately collated for the location. Post the completion of test execution, it is important that testers gather the result and commence result analysis – a post execution task. It is necessary for testers to understand the importance of a structured analysis of the test result – the second sub-phase of the performance test plan.
Methodology for Result Analysis
Result analysis is an important and more technical portion of performance testing. This is the task of experts who would need to assess the blocks and the best options for alleviating the problems. The solutions would need to be applied to the appropriate level of the software to optimize the effect. It is also essential for testers to understand certain points prior to starting the test result analysis. Some of these include – ensuring the tests run for a pre-determined period, remove ramp up and down duration, assess that no errors specific to the tool are present (load generator, memory issues, and others), ensure that there are no network related issues, and evaluate that the testing tool collects the results from all load generators and a consolidated test report is prepared. Further, adequate granularity must be there to identify the right peaks and lows, and the testers must make a note of the utilization percentage of the CPU and Memory before, during, and post the test. Filter options must be used and any unrequired transactions must be eliminated.
Testers must use some basic metrics to begin the result analysis – number of users, response time, transactions per second, throughput, error count, and passed count transactions (of first and last transactions). Testers must also analyze the graphs and other reports in order to ensure accurate result analysis.
As leaders in performance testing within the realm of software testing services, we believe there are some tips and practices that when implemented, would enhance the quality of test execution and result analysis.
- Generate individual test reports for each test
- Use a pre-determined and set template for the test report and for report generation
- Accurate observations (including root cause) and listing of the defects (description and ID) must be part of the test report
- All relevant reports (AWR, heap dump analysis and others) must be attached with the provisional test report
- Conclude the result with a Pass or Fail status
In Conclusion
A successful digital strategy is one where there is speedy and reliable software that is released fast into the market. Being able to create such software with the help of a structured performance testing process is the edge that a business would gain. We at Codoid are leaders in this realm and more, since our testing methods are designed by experts who understand the importance of consistently superior load and performance testing. Connect with us to accelerate the cause of your business through highest quality software – we ensure it.
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