Purposes: The primary objective of this conducted research is to investigate and propose strategies for improving software testing practices in Tanzanian software development companies. Specifically, the study identify the current state of software testing practices, understand challenges faced by software development companies in Tanzania, propose effective solutions, and evaluate their impact. Methodology: A mixed-methods approach employed to achieve the research objectives. Qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, including surveys, interviews, observations, documentation analysis, and experimentation, utilized to gather comprehensive insights into software testing practices. Purposive sampling employed to select diverse software development companies across different regions in Tanzania. Thematic analysis and statistical analysis applied to analyze qualitative and quantitative data, respectively, ensuring a robust examination of software testing practices. Findings: The research findings reveal the prevailing software testing practices in Tanzanian software development companies. Challenges such as resource constraints, inadequate test coverage, and limited collaboration between developers and testers are identified. Additionally, the study identifies best practices and proposes context-specific solutions to enhance software testing practices in Tanzanian companies. Statistical analysis provides quantitative insights into the effectiveness of proposed solutions. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practices and Policy: The study contributes to bridging the gap between academic research and industrial practices in software testing. Through addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in the Tanzanian context, the research provides actionable recommendations for improving software testing practices. The findings underscore the importance of tailored strategies and collaboration between academia and industry to enhance software quality and reliability in Tanzanian software development companies.
Published in | American Journal of Computer Science and Technology (Volume 7, Issue 3) |
DOI | 10.11648/j.ajcst.20240703.13 |
Page(s) | 82-89 |
Creative Commons |
This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited. |
Copyright |
Copyright © The Author(s), 2024. Published by Science Publishing Group |
Software Testing, Software Development, Case Study, Mixed-Methods Approach, Software Testing Challenges
[1] | Ababacar Sy Diop, K., & Liu, E. (2020). Categorization of case in case study research method: new approach. Knowledge and Performance Management, 4(1), 1–14. |
[2] | Abawi, K. (2017). Data Collection methods (Questionnaire & Interview). |
[3] | Al Neaimi, A. (2012). Conducting Verification and Validation of Multi- Agent Systems. International Journal of Software Engineering & Applications, 3(5), 115–124. |
[4] | Anand, A., & Uddin, A. (2019). Importance of Software Testing in the Process of Software Development. IJSRD-International Journal for Scientific Research & Development|, 6(February), 2321–0613. |
[5] | Anasuodei, M., Ojekudo, & Akpofure, N. (2021). Software Reusability: Approaches and Challenges. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science, 06(05), 142–146. |
[6] | Anwar, N., & Kar, S. (2019). Review Paper on Various Software Testing Techniques & Strategies. Global Journal of Computer Science and Technology, 19(2), 43–49. |
[7] | Bäckström, K. (2022). Industrial Surveys on Software Testing Practices: A Literature Review. |
[8] | Belay, E. T. (2020). Challenges of Large-Scale Software Testing and the Role of Quality Characteristics - An Empirical Study of Software Testing. 86. |
[9] | Beyer, D. (2022). Advances in Automatic Software Testing: Test-Comp 2022. In Lecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics): Vol. 13241 LNCS. Springer International Publishing. |
[10] | Bjarnason, E., Runeson, P., Borg, M., Unterkalmsteiner, M., Engström, E., Regnell, B., Sabaliauskaite, G., Loconsole, A., Gorschek, T., & Feldt, R. (2014). Challenges and practices in aligning requirements with verification and validation: a case study of six companies. |
[11] | Empirical Software Engineering, 19(6), 1809–1855. |
[12] | Brink, R. (2018). A multiple case design for the investigation of information management processes for work-integrated learning. International Journal of Work-Integrated Learning, 19(3), 223–235. |
[13] | Building, A. (2018). Verification and Validation Ensuring that a software system meets a user’s needs. 1–29. |
[14] | Campbell, S., Greenwood, M., Prior, S., Shearer, T., Walkem, K., Young, S., Bywaters, D., & Walker, K. (2020). Purposive sampling: complex or simple? Research case examples. Journal of Research in Nursing, 25(8), 652–661. |
[15] | Carlos, T. M., & Ibrahim, M. N. (2021). Practices in software testing in Cameroon challenges and perspectives. November 2020, 1–17. |
[16] | Casteel, A., & Bridier, N. L. (2021). Describing populations and samples in doctoral student research. International Journal of Doctoral Studies, 16, 339–362. |
[17] | Chen, L., Chen, Z., Zhang, Y., Liu, Y., Osman, A. I., Farghali, M., Hua, J., Al-Fatesh, A., Ihara, I., Rooney, D. W., & Yap, P. S. (2023). Artificial intelligence-based solutions for climate change: a review. In Environmental Chemistry Letters (Vol. 21, Issue 5). Springer International Publishing. |
[18] | Dawadi, S., & Giri, R. A. (2021). Mixed-Methods Research: A Discussion on its Types, Challenges, and Criticisms. 25–36. |
[19] | Dias-Neto, A. C., Matalonga, S., Solari, M., Robiolo, G., & Travassos, G. H. (2017). Toward the characterization of software testing practices in South America: looking at Brazil and Uruguay. Software Quality Journal, 25(4), 1145–1183. |
[20] | Eungoo, K., & Hwang, H.-J. (2021). Ethical Conducts in Qualitative Research Methodology: Participant Observation and Interview Process*. Journal of Research and Publication Ethics, 2(2), 5–10. |
[21] | Garousi, V., Felderer, M., Kuhrmann, M., Herkiloğlu, K., & Eldh, S. (2020). Exploring the industry’s challenges in software testing: An empirical study. Journal of Software: Evolution and Process, 32(8). |
[22] | Hynninen, T., Kasurinen, J., Knutas, A., & Taipale, O. (2018). Software testing: Survey of the industry practices. 2018 41st International Convention on Information and Communication Technology, Electronics and Microelectronics, MIPRO 2018 - Proceedings, 1449–1454. |
[23] | Imenda, S. (2014). Is There a Conceptual Difference between Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks? Journal of Social Sciences, 38(2), 185–195. |
[24] | ISTQB. (2018). Worldwide Software Testing Practices Report Message from the President Executive Summary Survey Questions and Analysis. |
[25] | Kassab, M., DeFranco, J., & Laplante, P. (2016). Software Testing Practices in Industry: The State of the Practice. IEEE Software, March 2019, 1–1. |
[26] | Kiger, M. E., & Varpio, L. (2020). Thematic analysis of qualitative data: AMEE Guide. Medical Teacher, 0(0), 1–9. |
[27] | Latif, B., & Rana, T. (2020). A preliminary survey on software testing practices in Khyber PakhtunKhwa region of Pakistan. Turkish Journal of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences, 28(1), 575–589. |
[28] | M. Al Atitaie, C., Gh. Alsarraj, R., & H. Al-Bayati, A. (2020). Verification and Validation of a Software: a Review of the Literature. Iraqi Journal for Computers and Informatics, 46(1), 40–47. |
[29] | M., S., Shamsur, M., Z., A., & Hasibul, M. (2018). A Survey of Software Quality Assurance and Testing Practices and Challenges in Bangladesh. International Journal of Computer Applications, 180(39), 1–8. |
[30] | Mendoza, I., Souza, U., Kalinowski, M., Interian, R., & Murta, L. G. P. (2019). An efficient algorithm for combining verification and validation methods. Lecture Notes in Computer Science (Including Subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics), 11376 LNCS, 324–340. |
[31] | MOHAJAN, H. K. (2018). Qualitative Research Methodology in Social Sciences and Related Subjects. Journal of Economic Development, Environment and People, 7(1), 23. |
[32] | Naqvi, B., Seffah, A., & Abran, A. (2020). Framework for examination of software quality characteristics in conflict: A security and usability exemplar. Cogent Engineering, 7(1). |
[33] | Noble, H., & Smith, J. (2015). Issues of validity and reliability in qualitative research. Evidence- Based Nursing, 18(2), 34–35. |
[34] | Patel, M., & Patel, N. (2019). Exploring Research Methodology: Review Article. International Journal of Research and Review Keywords: Research, Methodology, Research Methodology, 6(March), 48–55. |
[35] | Poudel, I. D. (2018). Aligning Requirements with Verification & Validation for Software Engineering Process Improvement. |
[36] | Rajabli, N., Flammini, F., & Member, S. (2021). Software Verification and Validation of Safe Autonomous Cars: A Systematic Literature Review. 4797–4819. |
[37] | Raulamo-Jurvanen, P. (2020). Evaluating and selecting software test automation tools: synthesizing empirical evidence from practitioners. |
[38] | Ridder, H. G. (2017). The theory contribution of case study research designs. Business Research, 10(2), 281–305. |
[39] | Rodriguez, M., Piattini, M., & Ebert, C. (2019). Software Verification and Validation Technologies and Tools. IEEE Software, 36(2), 13–24. |
[40] | RUSU MOCĂNAȘU, D. (2020). Determining the Sample Size in Qualitative Research. International Multidisciplinary Scientific Conference on the Dialogue between Sciences & Arts, Religion & Education, 4(1), 181–187. |
[41] | Scatalon, L. P., Fioravanti, M. L., Prates, J. M., Garcia, R. E., & Barbosa, E. F. (2019). A survey on graduates’ curriculum-based knowledge gaps in software testing. Proceedings - Frontiers in Education Conference, FIE, 2018-Octob (October). |
[42] | Seth, F. P., Taipale, O., & Smolander, K. (2014). Organizational and Customer related Challenges of Software Testing: An Empirical Study in 11 Software Companies. May. |
[43] | Seuring, S., Yawar, S. A., Land, A., Khalid, R. U., & Sauer, P. C. (2021). The application of theory in literature reviews – illustrated with examples from supply chain management. International Journal of Operations and Production Management, 41(1), 1–20. |
[44] | Torres-Carrion, P. V., Gonzalez-Gonzalez, C. S., Aciar, S., & Rodriguez-Morales, G. (2018). Methodology for systematic literature review applied to engineering and education. IEEE Global Engineering Education Conference, EDUCON, 2018-April (August), 1364–1373. |
[45] | Vaismoradi, M., & Snelgrove, S. (2019). Theme in qualitative content analysis and thematic analysis. Forum Qualitative Sozialforschung, 20(3). |
[46] | Vasanthapriyan, S. (2018). A study of software testing practices in Sri Lankan Software Companies. 2018 IEEE International Conference on Software Quality, Reliability and Security Companion (QRS-C), 339–344. |
[47] | Vukovic, V., Djurkovic, J., Sakal, M., & Rakovic, L. (2020). An empirical investigation of software testing methods and techniques in the province of Vojvodina. Tehnicki Vjesnik, 27(3), 687–696. |
[48] | Zevalkink, J. (2021). Observation method. Mentalizing in Child Therapy, May, 100–113. |
APA Style
Alphonce, M. (2024). Enhancing Software Testing Practices in Tanzanian Software Development Companies: A Case Study Approach. American Journal of Computer Science and Technology, 7(3), 82-89. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajcst.20240703.13
ACS Style
Alphonce, M. Enhancing Software Testing Practices in Tanzanian Software Development Companies: A Case Study Approach. Am. J. Comput. Sci. Technol. 2024, 7(3), 82-89. doi: 10.11648/j.ajcst.20240703.13
AMA Style
Alphonce M. Enhancing Software Testing Practices in Tanzanian Software Development Companies: A Case Study Approach. Am J Comput Sci Technol. 2024;7(3):82-89. doi: 10.11648/j.ajcst.20240703.13
@article{10.11648/j.ajcst.20240703.13, author = {Magori Alphonce}, title = {Enhancing Software Testing Practices in Tanzanian Software Development Companies: A Case Study Approach }, journal = {American Journal of Computer Science and Technology}, volume = {7}, number = {3}, pages = {82-89}, doi = {10.11648/j.ajcst.20240703.13}, url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajcst.20240703.13}, eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajcst.20240703.13}, abstract = {Purposes: The primary objective of this conducted research is to investigate and propose strategies for improving software testing practices in Tanzanian software development companies. Specifically, the study identify the current state of software testing practices, understand challenges faced by software development companies in Tanzania, propose effective solutions, and evaluate their impact. Methodology: A mixed-methods approach employed to achieve the research objectives. Qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, including surveys, interviews, observations, documentation analysis, and experimentation, utilized to gather comprehensive insights into software testing practices. Purposive sampling employed to select diverse software development companies across different regions in Tanzania. Thematic analysis and statistical analysis applied to analyze qualitative and quantitative data, respectively, ensuring a robust examination of software testing practices. Findings: The research findings reveal the prevailing software testing practices in Tanzanian software development companies. Challenges such as resource constraints, inadequate test coverage, and limited collaboration between developers and testers are identified. Additionally, the study identifies best practices and proposes context-specific solutions to enhance software testing practices in Tanzanian companies. Statistical analysis provides quantitative insights into the effectiveness of proposed solutions. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practices and Policy: The study contributes to bridging the gap between academic research and industrial practices in software testing. Through addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in the Tanzanian context, the research provides actionable recommendations for improving software testing practices. The findings underscore the importance of tailored strategies and collaboration between academia and industry to enhance software quality and reliability in Tanzanian software development companies. }, year = {2024} }
TY - JOUR T1 - Enhancing Software Testing Practices in Tanzanian Software Development Companies: A Case Study Approach AU - Magori Alphonce Y1 - 2024/09/20 PY - 2024 N1 - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajcst.20240703.13 DO - 10.11648/j.ajcst.20240703.13 T2 - American Journal of Computer Science and Technology JF - American Journal of Computer Science and Technology JO - American Journal of Computer Science and Technology SP - 82 EP - 89 PB - Science Publishing Group SN - 2640-012X UR - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajcst.20240703.13 AB - Purposes: The primary objective of this conducted research is to investigate and propose strategies for improving software testing practices in Tanzanian software development companies. Specifically, the study identify the current state of software testing practices, understand challenges faced by software development companies in Tanzania, propose effective solutions, and evaluate their impact. Methodology: A mixed-methods approach employed to achieve the research objectives. Qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, including surveys, interviews, observations, documentation analysis, and experimentation, utilized to gather comprehensive insights into software testing practices. Purposive sampling employed to select diverse software development companies across different regions in Tanzania. Thematic analysis and statistical analysis applied to analyze qualitative and quantitative data, respectively, ensuring a robust examination of software testing practices. Findings: The research findings reveal the prevailing software testing practices in Tanzanian software development companies. Challenges such as resource constraints, inadequate test coverage, and limited collaboration between developers and testers are identified. Additionally, the study identifies best practices and proposes context-specific solutions to enhance software testing practices in Tanzanian companies. Statistical analysis provides quantitative insights into the effectiveness of proposed solutions. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practices and Policy: The study contributes to bridging the gap between academic research and industrial practices in software testing. Through addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in the Tanzanian context, the research provides actionable recommendations for improving software testing practices. The findings underscore the importance of tailored strategies and collaboration between academia and industry to enhance software quality and reliability in Tanzanian software development companies. VL - 7 IS - 3 ER -