Distinguishing Test Scenarios and Test Cases in E-commerce Testing

When testing an e-commerce website, it’s important to know the difference between Test Scenarios and Test Cases. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand these concepts using a shopping analogy.

Test Scenario: The Big Picture

• Definition: A Test Scenario is a high-level idea of what needs to be tested on the website. It focuses on a specific feature or function.
• Analogy: Think of a Test Scenario as the "Electronics" section on an e-commerce website. This section includes various products like TVs, smartphones, and laptops.
• Example: A Test Scenario could be "Testing the Checkout Process." This indicates that you will be testing everything related to checking out items.

Test Case: The Detailed Steps

• Definition: A Test Case is a detailed guide that explains how to test a specific feature within a Test Scenario. It includes the steps to follow, what data to use, and what the expected results should be.
• Analogy: A Test Case is like the process of buying a specific product, such as a Smartphone. It outlines the exact steps you take to complete the purchase.

Example Test Cases for "Testing the Checkout Process"

For the Test Scenario of "Testing the Checkout Process," you might have the following Test Cases:

• Test Case 1: Verify the ability to add items to the cart.
  • Test Data:
    • Product: "Smartphone"
    • Quantity: 1
  • Steps:
    1. Navigate to the "Electronics" section.
    2. Select the "Smartphone."
    3. Click "Add to Cart."
  • Expected Outcome: The cart should display 1 item (Smartphone).
• Test Case 2: Verify the application of discount codes during checkout.
  • Test Data:
    • Discount Code: "SAVE10"
  • Steps:
    1. Add items to the cart.
    2. Proceed to checkout.
    3. Enter the discount code "SAVE10."
    4. Click "Apply."
  • Expected Outcome: The total price should reflect a 10% discount.
• Test Case 3: Verify successful payment with a credit card.
  • Test Data:
    • Credit Card Number: "4111 1111 1111 1111"
    • Expiry Date: "12/25"
    • CVV: "123"
  • Steps:
    1. Proceed to the payment section.
    2. Select "Credit Card" as the payment method.
    3. Enter the credit card details.
    4. Click "Pay Now."
  • Expected Outcome: Payment is processed successfully, and a confirmation message appears.
• Test Case 4: Verify that an order confirmation email is sent after purchase.
  • Test Data:
    • Email Address: "testuser@example.com"
  • Steps:
    1. Complete the purchase process.
    2. Check the email inbox for "testuser@example.com."
  • Expected Outcome: An order confirmation email is received with the order details.

Summary of Differences

• Test Scenario: Represents a broad category (like "Electronics") that outlines what feature to test (like the "Checkout Process").
• Test Case: Provides specific steps for testing a part of that feature (like buying a smartphone) with detailed instructions and test data.

By organizing your testing this way, you ensure that every part of the e-commerce website works well, just like making sure your shopping experience is smooth from selecting a product to completing the purchase!