Our QA team recently completed a project for a long-term client, focusing on their Marketplace API.
Their environment involved a set of software interfaces designed to optimize the work of customers in specific niches. Clients use a flexible and customized system of interfaces to collect data on their site which includes meta information and open data like, for example, the availability of transport tickets. This data can be automated through the right set of APIs, allowing real-time updates on the client side.
Previously, we tested individual elements of the client’s solutions. Now, it was time to ensure the entire API system worked seamlessly.
Challenge
- Complex API structure. The API system was extensive, with numerous endpoints and dynamic data, requiring comprehensive understanding and efficient testing within a tight timeframe.
- Real-time data updates. Ensuring that real-time data updates were accurately reflected on the client side was a significant challenge.
- Billing and user flow. Verifying the functionality of billing plans, including activation, special conditions, payments, deactivation, and overdue payments, added another layer of complexity.
- New features to test. Just before the release, the client was finalizing new features and pop-ups for premium accounts, necessitating thorough UX/UI testing.
Solution
We assembled a dedicated team for the job: 5 professionals, including 4 manual QA and a part-time Team Lead, all with a deep understanding of API testing and dynamic data environments.
Our collaboration with the development team was crucial. More than just running tests, we actively reviewed requirements, scrutinized test cases, and identified defects.
Our comprehensive testing strategy included:
- Functional testing. We verified that all data was displayed correctly across the client’s sites. We manipulated the database to simulate dynamic data changes and checked real-time updates.
- API testing. We conducted specific API testing, checking the availability and functionality of each endpoint.
- Billing and user flow testing. We tested billing plans and various user scenarios using test accounts.
- UI/UX testing. We focused on the new features and pop-ups for premium accounts, ensuring a smooth and user-friendly experience.
With a solid team and a clear strategy, we managed to cover over 500 test cases. We used tools like Postman for API testing, which helped us identify several serious bugs.
Technologies
- Postman
- Chrome Dev Tools
Result
Our high-impact, outcome-focused testing cycles resulted in:
- Validated functionality of all API endpoints and dynamic data updates.
- Verified the correct operation of billing plans and user scenarios.
- Tested and ensured the smooth functioning of new features and premium account pop-ups.
- Over 500 test cases processes, identifying and reporting critical bugs.
