What Types of System Testing Should Testers Use?

Answer

There are over 50 different types of system testing. The specific types used by a tester depend on several variables. Those variables include:

• Who the tester works for - This is a major factor in determining the types of system testing a tester will use. Methods used by large companies are different than that used by medium and small companies.
• Time available for testing - Ultimately, all 50  testing types could be used. Time is often what limits us to using only the types that are most relevant for the software project.
• Resources available to the tester - Of course some testers will not have necessary resources to conduct a testing type. For example if you are a tester working for a large software development firm, you are likely to have expensive automated testing software not available to others.
• Software Tester's Education - There is a certain learning curve for each type of software testing available. To use some of the software involved, a tester has to learn how to use it.
• Testing Budget - Money becomes a factor not just for smaller companies and individual software developers but large companies as well.