How do you involve end-users and stakeholders in compatibility testing matrix for web applications?

1 Define the scope

The first step is to define the scope of your compatibility testing matrix. This means identifying the target audience, the critical features, the supported platforms, and the testing criteria for your web application. You can use market research, user feedback, analytics, and stakeholder input to determine these factors. You should also prioritize the most common and important scenarios and combinations to focus on.

2 Design the matrix

The next step is to design the compatibility testing matrix based on the scope. This means creating a table or a spreadsheet that lists all the possible combinations of browsers, devices, operating systems, and network environments that you want to test your web application on. You should also assign a weight or a score to each combination based on its relevance, popularity, and impact. You can use tools like Google Analytics, StatCounter, or DeviceAtlas to get data on the market share and usage of different platforms.

3 Select the tools

The third step is to select the tools and methods that you will use to perform the compatibility testing. You can use manual testing, automated testing, or a combination of both, depending on your resources, budget, and time. You should also choose the tools that can simulate or emulate different platforms and environments, such as browserstack, crossbrowsertesting, or saucelabs. You should also consider the tools that can help you manage, report, and communicate the test results, such as testrail, jira, or slack.

4 Execute the tests

The fourth step is to execute the compatibility tests according to the matrix. You should follow the testing criteria and the test cases that you have defined for each combination. You should also document and report any issues, bugs, or defects that you find during the testing. You should also involve the end-users and stakeholders in the testing process by asking them to provide feedback, suggestions, or validation on the web application's functionality, usability, and appearance.

5 Analyze the results

The fifth step is to analyze the compatibility test results and evaluate the web application's performance, quality, and compatibility. You should compare the results with the expected outcomes and the stakeholder requirements. You should also identify the root causes, the impact, and the priority of any issues, bugs, or defects that you have found. You should also propose and implement any solutions, fixes, or improvements that can enhance the web application's compatibility.

6 Review and update

The final step is to review and update the compatibility testing matrix regularly. You should monitor and track any changes in the market trends, user preferences, platform updates, or stakeholder expectations that may affect your web application's compatibility. You should also retest and verify any solutions, fixes, or improvements that you have implemented. You should also communicate and share the compatibility testing matrix and the test results with the end-users and stakeholders to ensure their satisfaction and engagement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?