Most businesses today prefer to outsource software testing as it helps in reducing the high costs associated with software development. The process is rigorous and performing it in-house would require huge investments.
A research conducted by software quality tester Cast reveals that an average, big-size application costs an extra £2.23m as a result of code-related problems that are detected after a software goes live.
Software Failures Can Be Costly
Businesses recognize that software failures can be costly. For instance, a faulty online banking system may result in depositors’ savings getting siphoned off, or their site being hijacked. Being aware of the repercussions of using faulty software, businesses are now willing to make extra time for software testing to make investments in the same.
HBOS Setting Benchmark in Testing
Take the case of HBOS, which has invested in testing for setting a benchmark for itself and suppliers. The bank implemented the TMMi software testing methodology processes to bring down the number of errors in the applications that it developed. The knowledge gained would be used as a reference point, either in internal processes or setting up standards for development partners.
Consistent Growth in Global Testing
As an analyst, Nelson Hall has drawn attention to the global testing services market whose value was $8.4bn in 2011, and that has been growing consistently thereafter.
Cost Savings – A Major Driver of Software Testing
Experts agree that cost savings are a major driver of software testing. Moreover, testers need to do it in a more professional manner. Testing requires quite an investment in terms of tools, human resources and automation. This is the reason most organizations would prefer to outsource this work rather than do it internally. Shortage of resources with the right skills in the US and Europe also encourages companies to outsource testing to external service providers. In fact, most would prefer outsourcing the whole process of software development including testing.
Testing a Resource-Intensive Activity
Software testing is a resource-intensive activity. Automation notwithstanding, it requires human resources. India, thanks to its vast pool of trained human resources, has emerged as a popular destination for software testing. Experts predict Indian-offshore based software testing to grow in the next few years, while onshore testing is expected to witness a decline in the coming years.
How the Process of Software Testing is Changing
The way software testing is done has also changed in the last decade. Previously, testing was often done at the end of a software development lifecycle. The approach was to take it as a business requirement rather than a sound methodology. Now, developers test a code throughout the course of a software development process. Many organizations would insist on standalone testing as it helps to focus on quality.
Several suppliers have been reorganizing their processes to boost testing efficiency. Capgemini, for instance, has integrated its specialist software testing arm Sogeti with its other testing resources to compete better with pure software testers. Thanks to the bolstered resources, Capgemini was able to leave a solid imprint.
Wrapping Up
Eventually, lessons are being learnt by businesses as well as testers, leading to good partnership arrangements. Efforts are on for creating an atmosphere that is vital to long-term success.
