‘Testing is an infinite process of comparing the invisible to the ambiguous in order to avoid the unthinkable happening to the anonymous.’
— James Bach, software testing consultant
Functional testing in software testing is crucial to ensure that an application works correctly for the end consumer. After all, their experience is the only one that matters. However, when running these tests, there are several pitfalls you need to avoid — here are things you should not do when running functional tests in QA.
1. Do it all manually
Instead, you want to find opportunities to automate your tests. Additionally, make sure you have dedicated resources for developing automation testing.
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2. Automate everything
When dealing with disorganized legacy systems or complex features, do not waste effort trying to automate everything.
3. Have a single-use mindset
Improve efficiency by building reusable test scripts. Use a test case management tool and keep test maintenance in mind. Templates help as well.
4. Bother with tests that take too long
Ideally, you’re looking for a rapid feedback loop. Quick tests allow the development team to act fast, which is vital to a good continuous integration and deployment cycle.
5. Run tests sequentially (if you can avoid it!)
Although sequential testing may seem simpler, running tests in parallel reduces QA time and prevents queuing.
6. Just run positive tests
Negative tests check for unexpected behaviors. Only testing expected functionality can lead to missing unexpected user pathways.
7. Forget to test across browsers/devices
Does it work on mobile or older browsers like Internet Explorer? For web apps, testing across multiple browsers and devices is crucial.
8. Prioritize the wrong tests
Focus on whether features work first. Then, optimize for performance and improvements. Also, identify which tests are suitable for automation.
9. Test without goals and timeframes
Set clear objectives and timelines before testing. Exploratory tests can become a rabbit hole if not bounded.
10. Overlook testing tools
Tools like Selenium or Cypress empower QA engineers, reduce errors, and minimize repetitive tasks.
11. Ignore project management tools
JIRA, for instance, helps track progress, status, and priorities. It also enables stakeholders to collaborate in real-time.
12. Track results manually
Automate result tracking with alerts, webhooks, or integration tools like Zapier.
13. Omit documentation
Testing is only part of QA. Proper documentation ensures a record of what has been tested and guides future tests.
14. Leave testing until late in the process
Adopt the ‘shift left’ mentality. Test early and often, including before code is written.
15. Fail to collaborate with stakeholders and users
Consider how different personas interact with your product. Engage user groups in testing where possible.
BONUS: Don’t keep all your testing in-house
Get outside perspectives to save time and resources. Doing all functional testing yourself is like DIY plumbing — mistakes are costly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is functional testing in software testing?
Functional testing ensures that the software behaves correctly for the end-user.
Why is it important to avoid functional testing mistakes?
Mistakes can cause missed defects, longer testing cycles, and decreased software quality.
Should all functional tests be automated?
No, only repeatable and critical tests should be automated to optimize QA efforts.
What are the common things you should not do when running functional tests in QA?
Avoid manual-only testing, testing without goals, and ignoring cross-browser/device testing, among others.
When should functional testing start in the development cycle?
Functional testing should start as early as possible, following the ‘shift left’ approach.
Can functional testing be outsourced?
Yes, external testing can provide unbiased insights and save time and resources.
