What is use case testing?

Use case testing is a test design technique based on developing test cases from descriptions of user interactions with the system. It focuses on verifying the system's functionality from the end-user's perspective by simulating typical sequences of actions that a user performs to achieve a specific goal.

Main characteristics:

• Basis: Use cases or user stories.
• Goal: To verify whether the system meets the functional requirements described in the use cases.
• Focus: On user interaction with the system and data flows.
• Result: A set of test cases covering both main ("happy path") and alternative, as well as exceptional execution flows.

Stages:

1. Identification of use cases.
2. Development of use case descriptions (preconditions, steps, postconditions).
3. Definition of main, alternative, and exceptional flows.
4. Development of test cases for each flow.
5. Execution of test cases and analysis of results.

Example (fragment of the "User Login" scenario):

Step	Action	System
1	User opens the login page.	Login and password input form is displayed.
2	User enters correct login.
3	User enters correct password.
4	User clicks the "Login" button.	System verifies credentials.
5		User is redirected to the main page.

Flow types:

• Main (Main Flow): The ideal sequence of actions when the scenario is successfully executed.
• Alternative (Alternative Flow): A variation of the main flow that leads to successful completion but through different steps (e.g., login via social networks).
• Exceptional (Exceptional Flow): A situation where the scenario ends with an error or incomplete result (e.g., incorrect password input).

Advantages:

• Focuses on user needs.
• Ensures comprehensive coverage of functionality.
• Helps identify errors in component interactions.
• Test cases are easy to understand and use for all project participants.