A Testing Method for Detecting Data Inconsistencies in Model View Controller Architecture

Abstract

Testing user acceptance is a complex and laborintensive task in software applications. Many methods and tools have been proposed to detect user interface layer errors and ensure user satisfaction. In addition, the layered architecture of software complicates the testing process. However, manual tests of the user interface are required because of the extensive number of input-output-database state combinations and difficulties in measuring user acceptance in many projects. Preparing a test scenario can increase the opportunity to detect errors and improve user satisfaction. This paper describes a generic test scenario for the model-view-controller pattern that is one of the most widely used web development architectures. This scenario provides predefined and generic test cases for detecting data errors in layers with extension points to develop project-specific tests. We evaluate the effectiveness of our approach through a web application using a controlled experiment with a predefined testing procedure. Our evaluation results show that the scenariobased approach gives promising results to improve test outcomes.