Known for being an Internet platform, Cloud computing offers many computing services, for instance, computer software and computer hardware services. Cloud computing testing is a software testing type that checks cloud computing services. It has four types that include:
- The entire cloud
- Specific aspects
- Testing across it
- Saas testing
Cloud computing generally looks at the core components of the application which includes testing of its functions, businesses, and browser compatibility among others. It also focuses on network testing of specific processes of data communication through networks.
The infrastructure is a core component and it covers securing connections, backups, and storage rules. The other testing specifics in the cloud include things like performance and scalability testing with help of good pen testing services. It also may include things like data security and upgrading. Depending upon the provider, many of these specifics will be included with the package. You can read more information here.
Cloud oriented testing/Saas
This is a kind of testing commonly executed by the cloud or by SAAS providers. The key goal is to ensure the quality offered in the chosen cloud or SAAS program. Testing completed in this setting involves integration and security, as well as performance. It may also customize certain specifics to your liking if so desired.
Online based app testing
Online application services perform this kind of testing to check the performance of cloud services. When applications are adequately connected, the quality of the connection can be ensured.
Cloud-based app testing
This kind of testing is done in order to check the quality of a cloud-based app across different clouds.
Challenges with Cloud Testing
The first challenge in cloud testing is cybersecurity and privacy. Cybersecurity risk of data is always a challenge because Cloud applications are complex in nature. Users should be protected in this area, something which should be a known understanding with cloud testing. Providers should put a high priority on such challenges.
The second challenge is the notice time frame. This is a challenge encountered when manually validating the changes to your SaaS application. Cloud providers usually give a time frame notice (usually a couple of weeks) to all the customers about coming upgrades thus posing a challenge.
Authentication of interface compatibility is also a challenge. Cloud (SaaS) subscribers need to confirm that the users can choose the interface version they need to work with. When upgrading with a Cloud provider, sometimes the external is also upgraded which is new to some users. This is a potential problem for those used to the old version. With proper guidance and education, users can adjust to such upgrades flawlessly.
Data Migration is also a challenge. Data migration is a major problem because both providers may have different database configurations requiring more time and effort.
Application Integration can also a major problem. Application integration involves data integration and authentication of incoming and outgoing data between the client network and the SaaS application. Data privacy requires authentication to protect SaaS subscribers and so they may have the security of their information.
The last challenge is the Simulation of upgrade testing. Cloud testing’s major challenge is to ensure that upgrades do not affect the established connected SaaS users in any way.
But What About IoT?
In our current world, anything that can be connected will be connected. Estimates suggest that the internet of things will add between $10-$15 trillion in revenue to the global GDP. The reason? The Internet of Things connects everything to everyone else.
There are currently 11 billion IoT devices and applications. The growth of these devices shows no signs of slowing. While most of us inherently see the value of integrating the IoT into our everyday lives (eg: Hey Alexa!), some miss the mark on how IoT can be used in a business setting. We’ve rounded up the top 5 applications of IoT for business.
The IoT is everywhere anyway, might as well use it to your monetary advantage!
#1 Unlocking New Revenue
Whether you choose to utilize custom IoT development with a software firm or utilize existing IoT, there is no question that the IoT is prime in unlocking revenue. Statistics suggest that 96% of executives plan to utilize IoT to bolster their businesses over the next three years.
That’s because more than $40 trillion dollars is going to be poured into IoT development in the coming decades, including infrastructure upgrades. IoT truly has the power to unlock new revenue models from existing products or sleeping processes.
#2 Generate Data Leads
It goes without saying that data is paramount in helping businesses to generate the information necessary for making sound decisions. As IoT continues to grow, so will the data generated by these platforms and devices. Studies suggest that data provided from IoT devices in 2020 will be 22 times more valuable than data generated in the prior year.
With an uptick in usable data, comes greater insights into customers and demographics, leading to well-thought-out data-driven decisions for your business. Use that data to your advantage and implement the information into new digital marketing strategies.
#3 Reduction in Maintenance Costs
For a business, knowing where and how to cut costs can be invaluable. After all, any money spent is money you’re not getting to profit. IoT is valuable in reducing overall maintenance costs for both small and large businesses. Just how much can the IoT help?
Research shows that the IoT will effectively lower maintenance costs by 25%. These devices and platforms will also result in a 35% reduction in downtime. With the IoT, complications, and issues can easily be resolved without too much in the way of overhead.
#4 Better Customer Support
Customers won’t keep patronizing a business with poor support practices. If you’ve ever struggled with customer support, utilizing IoT applications and custom IoT development can help. Not only will the IoT allow customers to connect with your business on a personal level, but it will open up communication channels that were previously unused. Everything from text chat, video chat, email, and even private messaging can all be utilized to craft better customer support practices with the IoT.
#5 Better Logistics
Logistics can be a nightmare for businesses big and small, yet logistics are often paramount in keeping operations running smoothly. IoT has numerous applications for the transportation sector, including improved logistics. It can help to create a seamless supply chain, which can drive the overall efficiency of the company. Location tracking and data can also help to fill in any gaps as to how your fleet can be run in a more effective manner. With the IoT, solutions can be found in the warehouse, distribution center, and main office.