Migrating your system to a new platform, server, or environment can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be a nightmare. With proper planning, preparation, and testing, you can ensure a smooth and successful transition. In this article, we'll share some of the best ways to test a new system post-migration, so you can avoid common pitfalls and issues.
The first thing you want to do after migrating your system is to check if it works as expected. You should test all the core features and functions of your system, such as logging in, accessing data, running applications, sending and receiving messages, and so on. You should also verify that the system meets the performance, security, and reliability standards that you set before the migration. If you encounter any errors, bugs, or glitches, you should document them and fix them as soon as possible.
When testing a new system post-migration to AWS Cloud, consider the following best practices: Functional and Performance Testing: Use automated testing tools like Selenium, Tricentis, or Gatling to validate functionality and performance. Compare test results between the current and target environments as acceptance criteria. End-to-End Testing: Verify all functionalities work correctly in the AWS environment, including user registration, login, and payment processing. Canary Testing: Periodically test critical application workflows in production and notify support teams of errors1. Integration Testing: Validate interactions with third-party applications. Remember, thorough testing ensures a stable and secure system!
The same should be done before hand in a sandbox environment. Once the system is migrated you have a short window to test. Nevertheless each and every possible outcome should be tested and verified.
Another important step is to compare the data on your new system with the data on your old system. You want to make sure that no data was lost, corrupted, or duplicated during the migration. You should use a data comparison tool or a script to automate this process and generate a report of any discrepancies. You should also check the data integrity and quality, such as the accuracy, completeness, and consistency of the data. If you find any data issues, you should resolve them and retest the data.
Your system may depend on various integrations with other systems, services, or devices. You should validate that these integrations are working properly on your new system and that they are compatible with the new platform, server, or environment. You should test the communication, authentication, and data exchange between your system and the integrated systems, services, or devices. You should also monitor the performance and availability of the integrations and troubleshoot any problems that may arise.
This is very crucial and often missed out. An existing system may contains number of integrations and as the system evolves many tools are added. Once the system is a migrated this should be tested thoroughly. I remember at times a simple email trigger is missed and that may result in loss of critical information.
Your system may have different configuration settings, options, or parameters on your new system than on your old system. You should review the configuration of your system and make sure that it matches your requirements and expectations. You should also check the configuration of any related components, such as the network, the firewall, the database, the web server, and so on. You should verify that the configuration is optimal for your system's performance, security, and functionality.
One of the most critical aspects of your system is its backup and recovery capability. You should test the backup and recovery process on your new system and make sure that it works as intended. You should also check the frequency, location, and format of your backups and ensure that they are consistent and reliable. You should also simulate different scenarios of system failure, such as power outage, hardware malfunction, cyberattack, or human error, and test how your system recovers from them.
The last step is to gather feedback from your users, customers, or stakeholders on your new system. You should ask them to use your system and share their opinions, suggestions, or complaints. You should also measure their satisfaction, engagement, and loyalty with your system. You should analyze the feedback and identify any areas of improvement, enhancement, or innovation for your system. You should also thank them for their participation and support.