When I started working in the software development field, I used the traditional testing model, in which testing is often done at the end of the project. But when I first heard about “Shift Left Testing”, I felt it was something new to me. I agreed and it totally transformed me.
What is Shift Left Testing?
Shift Left Testing in software development is a concept that focuses on testing that’s used in the early stages of the software development operation. This kind of testing is used to concentrate on finding defects and bugs at the starting stage of the software development cycle and to troubleshoot bugs that can be a possible problem afterward. Implanting this testing technique right from the beginning phases of development like requirement gathering and designing can help to enhance the quality of the software.
With regular testing and feedback, it’ll be possible to accelerate the total software delivery process. With Webomates Not just the probability of finding important defects during the early stage of development can be reduced but also the operation will be more systematized and the resources can be used more effectively. Implementing the Shift Left approach is advantageous as it results in effective software development cycles, better quality of software, and customer satisfaction. Join Webomates to learn how to use more effective and trustworthy software delivery.
The First Challenge
The concept of Shift Left Testing means that testing is performed as early as possible in the Software Development Life cycle. We finished the coding phase with the use of the traditional method and began the experiment. However, in Shift Left Testing, the testing activities are carried out right from the design and development phase. When I first attempted Shift Left Testing, I encountered some difficulties. The biggest challenge was in trying to get the majority of the team prepared for this new way of working. Originally, it took some time to engage developers in testing because it was an unfamiliar activity to them.
Training and Awareness
To address this issue, I conducted several meetings and training to introduce shift left testing to the team. Early detection of bugs will reduce the need for rework at a later stage hence it will be time-saving and cost-saving for the project.
Use of Automation
Shift Left Testing must incorporate automation. I trained my team on different automation tools such as Selenium, Webomates, JUnit, and Jenkins. These tools helped us to make our testing process shorter and more effective.
Improvement in Quality
As a result, the Shift Left approach helped us greatly improve the quality of our software. This way, we were able to identify bugs and have them rectified before they went deeper into the system. It led to the development of a strong and stable end product.
Time and Cost Savings
In general, it is possible to state that the implementation of Shift Left Testing helped us to minimize the cost and save the time required to complete the projects. Having correcting mistakes at an early stage means that the probability of making corrections at a later date is reduced thus improving the duration of the overall project.
Improved Teamwork
The implementation of Shift Left Testing caused me to have good communication with my team members. It involves all developers, testers, and analysts to enhance understanding when developing and to support consistency across the project.
Conclusion
What I know now is that Shift Left testing revolutionized the path through which I developed software. This not only brings about an improvement in quality as well as the efficiency but also reduces the amount of time and money taken.
If you are in software development and have intentions in enhancing the quality and the time of the projects then it is recommended that you adopt the use of Shift Left Testing. It is a change that will help you in the future and help build your team and your company.
I wish this piece of information and my experience have shed some light on Shift Left Testing. Give stories of what you’ve learned and continue to learn. Indeed, Shift Left Testing has the potential to make that journey richer and more efficient and that is why it is worth going.
