Integration Testing

Integration testing involves the combination and assessment of individual software components, modules, or services as a collective unit. Its main objective is to validate the interactions, interfaces, and data transfer among these integrated elements to identify defects that may only surface when they operate in conjunction. This testing phase generally follows unit testing and precedes system testing, ensuring that the integrated components work effectively as a unified entity.

This testing phase is essential as it confirms that various software modules operate correctly as a single unit. Although components might succeed in unit tests, this process reveals flaws in their interactions and data exchanges. It guarantees that parts developed independently meet functional requirements when they are combined.

Identifying interface errors and issues with third-party APIs that might be overlooked in isolation is crucial during this phase. Detecting these integration issues early helps maintain application stability prior to system testing. It facilitates continuous delivery and effectively accommodates new requirements.

Despite its importance, integration testing poses several significant challenges. These difficulties often stem from the intricacies involved in merging separately developed modules and managing their interactions with external systems like databases or APIs.

Integration testing and system testing have distinct roles within the software development lifecycle.