A simultaneous application of combinatorial testing and virtualization as a method for software testing

Abstract

We propose in this paper a general framework for an integrated End-to-End Testing of IT Architecture and Applications using the simultaneous application of combinatorial testing and virtualization. Combinatorial testing methods are often applied in cases of the configuration testing. The combinatorial approach to software testing uses models, particularly an Orthogonal Array Testing Strategy (OATS) is proposed as a systematic, statistical way of testing pair-wise interactions to generate a minimal number of test inputs so that selected combinations of input values are covered. Virtualization, in the process of testing, is based on setting the necessary environment to multiple virtual machines, which run on one or in smaller groups of physical computers, which are: reduce the cost of equipment and related resources, reduce the time required to manage the testing process, and favors raising removal of test infrastructure. Together, combinatorial testing and virtualization presents practical approach to improving process of testing, through the balancing quality, cost and time.