Compatibility Testing
Compatibility testing is a software testing methodology that ensures an application functions correctly across different environments, platforms, devices, and configurations. It verifies that software works as intended with various operating systems, browsers, hardware, networks, and other software components. This type of testing helps identify issues that may arise when users interact with the application in diverse real-world scenarios.
Developers should learn and use compatibility testing to deliver robust applications that provide a consistent user experience across all supported environments, which is crucial for web and mobile apps with diverse user bases. It is essential when developing software for multiple platforms (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux), browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari), or devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets), as it prevents bugs and usability problems that could lead to customer dissatisfaction or lost revenue. This methodology is particularly important in agile and DevOps workflows to ensure continuous compatibility during rapid development cycles.