What is Use Case Testing? Technique, Examples

Use Case Testing is a software testing methodology focused on thoroughly testing the system by simulating real-life user interactions with the application. It aims to cover the entire system, transaction by transaction, from initiation to completion. This approach is particularly effective in uncovering gaps in the software that may not be evident when testing individual components.

In this context, a Use Case in Testing is a concise description of a specific interaction between a user or actor and the software application. It outlines the actions the user takes and how the software responds to those actions. Use cases play a crucial role in creating comprehensive test cases, especially at the system or acceptance testing level.

How to do Use Case Testing: Example

Example: Online Shopping System

Use Case: User Adds Item to Cart and Checks Out

1. Identify the Use Case:
   • The use case is “User Adds Item to Cart and Checks Out.”
2. Identify Actors:
   • Primary Actor: User
   • Secondary Actor: Payment Gateway, Inventory System
3. Outline the Steps:
   • Step 1: User Logs In
     • Action: User enters credentials and logs in.
     • Expected Result: User is successfully logged in.
   • Step 2: User Searches and Selects an Item
     • Action: User enters search query, browses items, and selects an item.
     • Expected Result: Selected item is added to the cart.
   • Step 3: User Adds Item to Cart
     • Action: User clicks “Add to Cart” button.
     • Expected Result: Item is added to the cart.
   • Step 4: User Views Cart
     • Action: User clicks on the shopping cart icon.
     • Expected Result: User can view the selected item in the cart.
   • Step 5: User Proceeds to Checkout
     • Action: User clicks “Proceed to Checkout” button.
     • Expected Result: User is directed to the checkout page.
   • Step 6: User Enters Shipping and Payment Information
     • Action: User enters shipping address and selects a payment method.
     • Expected Result: Information is accepted without errors.
   • Step 7: User Confirms Order
     • Action: User reviews order details and clicks “Confirm Order” button.
     • Expected Result: Order is confirmed, and confirmation message is displayed.
   • Step 8: Payment is Processed
     • Action: Payment gateway processes the payment.
     • Expected Result: Payment is successful.
   • Step 9: Order is Placed
     • Action: System updates inventory and sends confirmation email.
     • Expected Result: Inventory is updated, and confirmation email is sent.

4. Create Test Cases:
   • Based on the steps outlined above, create individual test cases for each action and expected result.
5. Execute Test Cases:
   • Execute each test case, recording the actual results.
6. Verify Results:
   • Compare the actual results with the expected results. Note any discrepancies.
7. Report Defects:
   • If any discrepancies are found, report them as defects in the testing tool or management system.
8. Retest and Regression Testing:
   • After defects are fixed, retest the affected areas. Additionally, perform regression testing to ensure that existing functionality is not affected.
9. Conclude Testing:
   • Once all test cases have been executed and verified, conclude the Use Case Testing process.

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