If you want your users to have a consistent experience no matter which browser they use, you need to do cross-browser compatibility testing. It’s critical to understand that conducting cross browser test online across a number of browsers uncovers problems that weren’t noticeable during development.
According to StatCounter’s worldwide browser market share data, around 64.06 percent of the world’s web traffic is accessed using Google Chrome. According to a new survey on browser market share, Chrome 85.0 and 86.0 are still popular browsers. Therefore, a cross-browser testing tool is necessary to guarantee that your site functions the same across all browsers.
When choosing a cross-browser testing tool, you should ask the following questions:
Is it easy to integrate the tool into the development/testing workflow?
Today, model development approaches include Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery. Agile development approaches necessitate regular testing, which is done by the development team. Using a CI/CD tool that quickly connects with other popular CI/CD tools can be a big help here.
Before deciding on a cross-browser compatibility testing tool, make sure you know if you’ll be able to test suites simultaneously on several browser-OS setups. A minimum amount of manual interaction is required when using features such as automated test scheduling and scriptless test automation. Because of this, teams are free to work on the actual application itself instead of worrying about test builds and executions.
Do you think there is a way to expand the scope of testing?
Today’s web apps often include a wide range of features and specifications. As a result, many test cases concentrating on individual UI components are created. Running such extensive test suites can quickly add up the time it takes. As a result, it’s typical for testing to be omitted for some crucial device and browser setups. Even though a browser has various features, missing out on just a few of them might cost you a lot.
A cross-browser testing tool with capabilities like easy test case generation, parallel test case execution, on-demand access to numerous testing environments, etc., helps to reduce total testing time. As a result, additional browser-OS combinations may be tested, guaranteeing that the application functions well on most end-user devices.
Is it compatible with the most common browser-OS combinations?
What matters most when picking a tool for cross-browser compatibility testing is if it allows you to test all the essential functions on most browser-OS combinations. Your application has to have a fluid design and be responsive and easy to use.
Microsoft’s Internet Explorer browser had a market share of about 95% when it was discontinued a few years ago. Determine which browser-OS combinations are the most popular before you begin testing. As a general guideline, you should focus your testing efforts on any and all combinations that account for more than 5% of your overall traffic.
There are various factors to consider when determining which a given project supports browsers and versions. Some types of testing may merely need to examine the application’s responsiveness on a particular browser.
Is it a time-saver?
The ultimate objective of any development process is to produce high-quality products rapidly. This means that selecting a testing instrument that requires minimum maintenance and involvement is critical.
For example, a new tester should get up and running with the tool more quickly if they are unfamiliar with the testing environment. A testing tool must feature easy-to-understand navigation, easily accessible components, and a quick start guide for new testers to get up and running fast.
The tool must allow for as little manual interaction as possible while creating and running test suites. Several features can help speed up the whole testing process, such as parallel testing, scriptless automation, and reusable groups. A single testing platform that has all of these functions will save time in the long run.
Is it able to produce reports based on a certain configuration?
To address errors fast and efficiently, powerful reports at the system level are essential. A method for a complete examination of failed test cases should be built into the tool. Developers can then use a drill-down method to investigate all of the test environments that have failed test cases and work on the defects that have been found.
Test reports should be accompanied by visual evidence, such as screenshots or videos, to make it easier for diverse teams to comprehend what went wrong. If the tool creates configuration-specific test results when conducting cross-browser testing, it will be easier to find errors.
Is it able to assist customers promptly?
When looking for a cross-browser testing tool, be sure the company offers good customer service. Customers should contact a tool’s support team by chat, email, or phone call if they need assistance. Before deciding on a tool, it’s important to read customer evaluations to gain a bird’s-eye view of the product from a user’s perspective.
Bottom Line
Maintaining and organizing many testing environments with vast test suites and configurations, and scaling them according to needs, may be time- and money-consuming. To ensure that your cross-browser testing goes well, you must choose a cloud-based automated testing platform that meets all of your needs.
Chamsi Pirson is a freelance content writer and writes for a variety of online publications. he actively writes blogs and articles related to business, fashion, lifestyle, fitness and much more. When he's not working, he likes to cook, dance, and travel.