The challenges of system testing are multifaceted and stem from the complexity of testing a fully integrated software system. Key challenges include:
Time and Resource Constraints: System testing requires thorough planning to cover all necessary tests within limited timeframes and with finite resources. Managing these effectively is critical to avoid incomplete testing [1]
Handling Complex Systems: Modern software often involves multiple integrations, dependencies, hardware components, network configurations, and third-party services. Testing all possible interactions and ensuring compatibility across diverse environments is complex and time-consuming [1]
Communication Issues: Effective system testing demands clear communication and collaboration among developers, testers, system administrators, and stakeholders. Misunderstandings about requirements or functionalities can lead to missed defects or inadequate test coverage [1]
Test Environment Stability: Test environments that do not accurately mirror production or are unstable can cause difficulties in reproducing bugs and verifying fixes, impacting the reliability of test results [2]
Budget and Tooling Limitations: Adequate budget and access to appropriate testing tools are necessary for thorough system testing. Lack of these can lead to shortcuts and incomplete testing [2]
Source
teamhub.com (2024), Understanding System Testing in Software Development
Powell & Smalley (nd), What is System testing?