| dc.description.abstract | As more and more organizations turn towards computer based information systems for
decision making, it becomes necessary to ensure that such systems are error free. To be
able to come up with an error free system, there are a number of things to be done to
eliminate any errors that may exist.
There is need to enhance detection and prevention of software errors and bugs in order to
avoid the catastrophic effects that arise if the system is not well tested. The focus of this
study was on the software testing processes by software developers in Kenya. While doing
this study, some elaborate background is provided at the beginning regarding the growing
use of computers. The problem that is being addressed by the study is the effects that an
error can cause to businesses which can be catastrophic. The major problem noted is the
effects that untested software may cause if not well tested. Tools that are used in software
testing process are also explained.
A key aspect of the study was to attempt to establish the tools and processes used in
software testing by Information and Communication Technology developers in Kenya. The
results show that, ICT Consultants perform software testing to a large extent whenever
they are developing software. In addition, the findings revealed that, respondents view the
system testing as important in the system development process. Attempts were also made
to find out if there are any existing challenges facing software testing process in Kenya.
The report provides some descriptions of the methodology and the data analysis techniques
which were used such as tables, pie charts and some frequency tables. The findings and
recommendations arising out of the research are included in the explanations in each of the
sections.
Findings of the study show that about two thirds of the software developers in Kenya do
actual testing of the software. Most of the firms interviewed carry out their software testing
processes internally within the organization. However, those customizing or performing
agency roles of re-selling already developed software make use of experts from one of the
partners of the company that developed and owns the software. The tools used for software
testing processes are imported and thus a firm has to plan properly to avoid shortage of the
same.
Notable among the challenges is the lack of skills on software testing. Also, the process of
software testing is not put as part of the project activities when implementing a new
system.
There were no serious limitations to the study but the limited time and budget restricted the
researcher from attaining a 100% response rate. Some of the software testing tools and
processes are relatively new and may not be well understood locally. It is possible that
some of the respondents could have given their response with this limitation. To
understand the driving force behind adoption of certain software testing tools requires a
more in-depth and specific study.
This study however, ends with recommendations as regards the importance of the software
testing and that there is need to have software testing processes entrenched in the FCf
Policy for all organizations. It should even be made as a formal activity to be carried out at
the time of project completion. | en |
