Embedded software testing has been a crucial component of software development since the first embedded systems and devices appeared. In the past, embedded applications operated in isolation, with no need to communicate with each other. However, today’s embedded devices and systems—from smartphones and fitness trackers to smart cars and sophisticated medical equipment—constantly communicate with each other, share information, and store loads of data. Due to the broad spread of IoT and other cutting-edge technologies, embedded software development and testing has shifted from a straightforward, predictable process to a complicated and challenging task.
Moreover, embedded software for certain industries—say, the avionics, automotive, and medical industries—is not only highly complex but also mission- or life-critical. Experts emphasize that embedded software testing calls for improved security and better code coverage than mobile or desktop app test efforts do. While 70% code coverage is usually enough, embedded software tests require at least 90% to 95% of code coverage, and in safety-critical systems where the tolerance for software errors is zero, 100% code coverage is a must. Therefore, vendors must have a well-defined testing strategy, appropriate software testing tools, and a comprehensive and systematic approach in place.
However, while the importance of embedded software testing cannot be overstated, less than one-third of embedded system developers are satisfied with the current state of software testing in their organizations. Auriga recently conducted a unique survey with the assistance of LTM Research, an independent research company, asking 55 embedded companies to self-assess their software testing approach. The answers were surprising. Only 33% of companies participating in our survey evaluated their software testing approach as “excellent.” The majority of respondents (38%) evaluated their software testing approach as just “good,” and the other 29% considered it “average” or lower.
Leonid Migunov, a testing expert at Auriga, made the following comment on the study:
The study reveals eroding trust due to a fast-changing tech environment. Over the last five years, the popularity of agile software development increased by almost 30%, and interest in open source testing tools has shown a 90% rise. Over the last year, interest in implementing DevOps has rocketed by 50%. In an attempt to automate the process of software delivery, traditional development cycles in which now performed in tandem with the goal of continuous software delivery.
Join us and follow our news to review your industry peers’ thoughts on how embedded testing has changed and learn what separates the leaders from the followers in software testing practices. Further study outcomes are coming soon!
