To support global omni-channel retail, the Client needed to deliver a unified Order Management System.
Vast data exhausts from incongruous, disparate and uncoordinated sources presented complex integration challenges.
Qualitest designed, integrated and delivered a comprehensive solution for continuous testing and end-to-end testing.
Streamlined coordination was delivered with alternative testing methods, structured test creation and automated data validation.
The implementation of our comprehensive end-to-end test plan improved efficiency of validation for the Client’s complex data flow across 21 integrations.
Time spent on manual validation of XML files was reduced by 60% and over 500 defects were identified and addressed.
Our Client is a leading UK high-street fashion retailer known for offering affordable and trendy clothing, footwear, and accessories for women, men and children. With an additional international distribution channel online, our Client needs the best tech stack possible to serve its global demographic of fashion-conscious consumers. It continues to evolve its product offerings and to enhance its shopping experience both in-store and online with a focus on innovation and multi-channel customer satisfaction.
To consolidate orders from all sales channels into a unified Order Management System (OMS), the client had embarked on a transformation journey, with Manhattan OMS the chosen third-party solution.
This integration required management of a complex data exhaust between multiple upstream and downstream systems and applications. Further, new integrations were required through an Integration Platform as a Service (IPaaS) using Azure Logic Apps and Web Apps. Multifaceted and interdependent challenges presented themselves within this process:
Significant challenges were encountered balancing the intricate data flow across 21 integrations (13 inbound and 8 outbound). Each integration included Producer and Consumer Logic Apps, which required rigorous validation to ensure data accuracy.
Encompassing various source systems, comprehensive end-to-end testing was necessitated including Hybris SAP Commerce, Oracle RMS, ReSA, Selektron, Location Management System, and an Enterprise Data Warehouse (IBM – DB2 Database). The testing requirements also included seamless interfacing with IPaaS layers and the MAO.
The Client encountered complexity around test case creation and execution when it became apparent that testing needed to begin before some source systems (inputs to Producers) were fully prepared.
Interface Requirement Specifications were particularly complex and so the Client required the creation of a vast range of test cases that covered all possible scenarios comprehensively.
The Client faced a challenge to maintain accuracy and efficiency in defect triage with such an extensive volume of XML and JSON files to be validated across multiple integrations.
Coordination was made more difficult because of the Client’s OTP sharing issues across multiple teams, which complicated management of CyberSource authentication and decision-making for orders on hold.
Qualitest implemented a comprehensive and strategic approach to address these challenges:
By categorizing the 21 integrations into distinct groups, Qualitest developed a detailed plan for integration testing. The plan allowed for multiple integrations simultaneously and independent testing of non-dependent interfaces. This greatly improved overall efficiency.
Qualitest designed an end-to-end testing plan and divided it into two phases. The approach was to ensure thorough coverage of all source systems and their interfaces within IPaaS layers and the MAO. The goal, as always, was to facilitate earlier issue identification and streamline efforts across various systems.
When cases where the source system was not ready for testing were encountered, the Qualitest team suggested using Postman and manually created files to generate the required input data for IPaaS Integration. This ensured testing continuity.
To create a test matrix, a structured approach was adopted which considered factors such as order channel, delivery type, and payment method. Solution architects and business analysts were consulted to ensure the plan was reviewed and refined iteratively and accurate test cases were developed.
To automate data extraction from XML and JSON files, Python scripts were implemented to convert them into Excel format. It was this automation that massively streamlined the validation process, dramatically reducing the time required for the triage f defects.
To implement push messages, Microsoft Power Automate was used. This resolved the Client’s OTP sharing issues and simplified cross-team coordination. The solution also reduced the effort required for authentication and decision-making.
Qualitest’s strategic continuous testing, integration testing and automation solutions led our Client to substantial benefits, both in terms of efficiency and quality:
The implementation of our comprehensive end-to-end test plan improved efficiency of validation for the Client’s complex data flow across 21 integrations. This facilitated seamless communication and data flow between systems.
Systematic categorization of the integrations and strategic prioritization of testing, based on dependencies, enhanced the accuracy of testing. This ensured all scenarios were validated thoroughly.
Unified and seamless coordination among the Client’s different teams was facilitated by the clear guidelines for simultaneous testing and the use of automation tools. This significantly reduced the effort and time required for cross-team collaboration.
Qualitest’s end-to-end testing approach ensured comprehensive coverage of all source systems and interfaces. This also better aligned systems with business requirements and more frequently validated the functionality of the entire system.
The deployment of Postman and manual file creation as alternative testing methods allowed testing to begin even when source systems were not ready. This meant momentum could be maintained in the testing process.
The validation process was expedited by the implementation of Python scripts. Time spent on manual validation of XML files was reduced by 60%. Efficiency in defect triage and data validation was also enhanced.
Our implementation of Microsoft Power Automate for push messages streamlined the CyberSource authentication process significantly. This saved considerable effort that would have otherwise been spent on team coordination.
During testing, over 500 defects were identified and addressed. This underscored both the thoroughness and targeting of the quality assurance process. It also continues to contribute to the overall reliability of the system.
The success of the project was characterized by the completion of 21 integrations via IPaaS, the successful execution of extensive test phases, and the regression pack’s development to ensure future-proof system stability.
The solutions Qualitest deployed not only met the Client’s immediate business needs but also added long-term value by enhancing the Order Management System’s ongoing robustness.
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