While mobile and web applications continue to grow in popularity, desktop applications are here to stay. They are a staple for individuals and businesses as they provide a level of functionality and reliability that may sometimes be difficult to achieve in web-based applications. The market value of desktop applications in 2021 was estimated to be $2022.9 million and it is set to triple by 2028.
Over time, as new features are added and updates are released, it becomes more difficult to keep track of how the desktop application will behave in the real world. Running desktop app automation testing in a controlled environment can help you catch any issues before they become showstoppers. But how do you go about testing a desktop app? What are some of the desktop app automation testing tools? In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of desktop app automation testing you can run, how to set up your testing environment, and some best practices to keep in mind. Let’s get started!
What are Desktop Applications?
Before we jump into desktop app automation testing, it’s important to understand what they are. Desktop applications are software programs that are designed to run on a desktop or laptop. They are usually installed locally, unlike web-based applications. Some examples of popular desktop applications include Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, and iTunes. Desktop applications tend to have a richer set of features and functionality than web-based apps. Desktop apps can also be more complex than web-based apps, which can make them more difficult to test.
What is Desktop App Automation Testing?
It is the process of automating the testing of desktop applications by using different tools. The desktop app testing tools help test the overall functionality of the application, the different components of the application, its interaction with other applications on the system and its interaction with the system as well as the user. Some of the best automation test tools include WinAppDriver, AutoIT, Winium, Jubula and Test Architect.
What are the Different Types of Tests you can run on a Desktop Application?
Desktop app testing tools are used to run the following different types of desktop app tests:
- Functionality Testing: This includes testing the functionality of individual components, and integration tests, which show how effectively the desktop app works with other applications and services.
- GUI Feature Testing: This form of desktop app automation testing focuses on the graphical user interface and helps ensure that it is easy to use and navigate.
- Load Testing: This type of desktop app automation testing is used to ensure that the app can handle heavy loads without crashing or slowing down the system it is installed on.
- Backend (database) Testing: Desktop app companies use this test to ensure that the app can connect to a database correctly.
- Memory Leaks Defect Testing: This is used to find defects that cause the app to use more and more memory over time.
- Compatibility Testing: Some of the best automation test tools are used to ensure that the desktop app is compatible with different versions of operating systems and hardware.
Key things to Consider before Running Desktop Automation Testing
- Desktop App Use Cases: Since desktop applications are advanced as compared to web/mobile applications, it is important to ensure that the testers are familiar with the application under test (AUT) to ensure comprehensive test coverage.
- Hardware Variation: Graphics cards, CPUs, RAMs and other hardware components can have a significant impact on how an application behaves. Testers from desktop app companies like Oprimes consider these variations when testing desktop applications.
- Operating System Compatibility: Desktop applications need to be compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Testers help ensure that the application works correctly on all supported operating systems. They also identify any OS-specific bugs.
- Sofware Compatibility: Desktop applications need to be compatible with a variety of software, including office suites, web browsers, and email clients. Desktop app companies like Oprimes ensure that the application works with all supported software and also help identify any software-specific bugs.
- User Interface Testing: Desktop applications have a variety of user interface elements, including menus, buttons, and dialog boxes. Desktop application tests help ensure that the elements are functioning correctly and that the user interface is easy to use.
- Internet Connectivity: Some desktop applications require an internet connection for some or all of their functions. Testers help validate that the application can connect to the internet and identify any potential connectivity-related issues.
When it comes to desktop applications, customers seek a rich user interface, advanced features, and smooth performance. Oprimes is the perfect solution to ensure all of these factors for your desktop application. We provide a complete set of services, to help you release a high-quality desktop application. Our specialists have a deep understanding of desktop application testing and can help you overcome any challenges you may face.
Now that you understand the process of desktop app automation testing, you can hire desktop app testing companies like Oprimes to ensure maximum confidence in its performance.
