Specialized Testing

Often, software testing emphasizes the fit-for-use scenario, and rightly so. However, the fit for use for one person is far different than the fit for use for dozens, hundreds, or even millions of simultaneous users. Also, there are situations where individuals will not be able to use the software as originally designed or intended. This can be due to situational or environmental reasons, or it could be due to a disability the user has. Not everyone speaks the same language or uses the same alphabet. Some software requires rigorous vetting and certification before it can be released due to its sensitive or life-and-death nature. Additionally, there are bad actors out in the world who intentionally look to subvert software and make it into a tool for scams and other criminal activity. To that end, it is important to look at and consider a variety of specialty areas within testing.

In this chapter, we’ll explore some of the most important and widely used...