Gregory M. Kapfhammer

Associate Professor of Computer Science

http://www.cs.allegheny.edu/~gkapfham/

  
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A Primer on Testing Database-Driven Applications

Gregory M. Kapfhammer. A Primer on Testing Database-Driven Applications. Presented at the 3rd Biennial Intramural Faculty Conference, May 18 - 19, 2004.

Related Project: DIATOMS

Abstract

Have you ever used a database-driven application? Chances are, you have! As our society has become increasingly reliant upon the usage of timely, relevant, and correct information, the database has become an important tool for managing these information sources. An increased dependence upon databases has also caused a multiplication of the number of database-driven applications that provide transparent access to these information sources. Simply put, database-driven applications are programs that interact with databases in order to efficiently store their data – and they are everywhere! Database-driven applications are used to store the airspace boundaries that pilots consult to create their flight plans, to provide city officials with detailed information about city layout and resources, and to enable faculty members to store the grades of their students. Unfortunately, there is a relative dearth of testing techniques that can ensure that a database-driven application correctly interacts with the database! The lack of appropriate testing approaches means that program "bugs" could incorrectly change the data in database and potentially lead to plane crashes, inappropriately located city construction sites, and incorrect final grades. In this presentation, I will highlight the challenges that are associated with the testing of this unique class of applications. Finally, I will outline some solutions that are the first step towards high-quality software applications that interact with databases.

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