Thanks to the cloud, these days you can access everything you want with a simple click. You probably already use Google Drive for data storage, consume Netflix for entertainment, and run Salesforce for work. All of these platforms operate on cloud computing. The cloud simply refers to computer servers that you access remotely in order to store information, run software processes, and utilize services. And the cloud lends itself to another use: testing software.

The problem – multiple platforms and complicated testing procedures

As an avid gamer, I can tell you there is nothing that tarnishes a new release more than having bugs and errors that made it through testing; it is insulting to the consumer. These days, most software needs to be available on multiple platforms – not just mobile and desktop, but also different browsers and different operating systems. This complicates testing even more.

Before the option of using the cloud to test software, your only option was to physically create the infrastructure and hire staff to test and maintain everything. But physical testing becomes prohibitively expensive as you need more platforms to reach a larger consumer base. Scaling up physical servers and infrastructure is laborious, expensive, and time-consuming, all of which are enemies of efficient software development.

The Solution – cloud computing to the rescue

Now with cloud computing, you can utilize Testing as a Service (TaaS) to complete all of your software testing far more efficiently. TaaS is superior to traditional testing for several reasons:

• No need to purchase physical infrastructure or hire IT employees.
• Faster time to market due to dedicated automation of testing services.
• Change computing needs without changing hardware.
• Test all browsers, devices, and operating systems in one place simultaneously.
• Developers and testers communicate and test remotely within one tool.

Some caveats

Of course, there are a few drawbacks to utilizing the cloud for your software testing; they can generally be found in the fine print of your TaaS provider contract. Ensure that all the different configurations and types of testing you require are spelled out in detail. Give the contract a thorough read-thru with a professional to avoid hidden costs – things like encryption or using more storage.

Furthermore, since your software will no longer reside solely in-house, there is always the concern about privacy. Learn how your provider will ensure security of your data.

Conclusion

You design software to be cutting-edge and powerful. Don’t you also want to test that software with the most up-to-date tools? Consider cloud technology if you are not already using it.