Difference between Integration Testing and System Testing

In this article, we will compare two widely used testing strategies in software fields Integration Testing and System Testing. Before comparing them let us briefly understand the concept of both testing strategies.

Before diving into the integration testing we need to need to understand what does a module mean?

Modules are small units or components of a software project which are integrated to form a complete software product. Generally, a project is divided into modules to reduce the burden and complexity for developers.

What is Integration testing?

Integration testing is a testing technique that is used to test different modules or components of a software project when modules are integrated. It is used to see whether the project is running efficiently or not when all modules are integrated. It identifies all the errors in the modules and reports them to the developers so that they can rectify them

Each module (unit) is initially tested separately. These components are integrated after unit testing has been completed. The modules are then put through integration testing to ensure that they combine as anticipated.

Why to use Integration testing?

There are several specific reasons why developers should conduct integration testing, in addition to the basic truth that they must test all software applications before making them available to the general public.

Errors can be brought on by incompatibility between program modules.
The ability of each software element to communicate with the database must be verified by developers.
As a result of client feedback, requirements alter. Though perhaps they haven't been fully tested yet, those new requirements should be.
Every software developer has their own conceptual framework and coding reasoning. Integrity testing guarantees that these different units work together seamlessly.
Compatibility issues with the components could arise.
Integration testing is necessary to ensure that the data these tools take is accurate because modules frequently interact with third-party APIs or tools.

What is System Testing?

System testing is a type of testing that verifies a software product's integration and completion. A system test's objective is to evaluate how well the system requirements are met from beginning to finish. In most cases, a bigger computer-based system only consists of a small portion of the software. In the end, the software interfaces with other software/hardware components. A set of various tests that are performed solely to exercise the entire computer-based system are referred to as system tests.

System testing is done on the entire system in accordance with either the system requirement specifications, the functional requirement specifications, or both. System testing examines the structure and operation of the system as well as user standards. It is done to evaluate the system beyond the parameters specified in the software requirements specification. (SRS). In general, a testing team that is separate from the production team conducts system testing to objectively assess the system's quality. Functional and non-functional testing are both present. A black-box test is system testing. Before the approval testing and following the integration testing is system testing.

Why use System Testing?

A few reasons to use System testing are mentioned below

It makes it possible for you to evaluate, confirm, and test both the business needs and the application architecture.
System testing is used to find and fix software programme flaws. It assists in locating problems with speed, compatibility, and integration.
By locating and fixing system flaws, system testing contributes to the enhancement of the software application's quality. It guarantees the reliability, stability, and user satisfaction of the software programme.

Difference between Integration Testing and System Testing

Integration Testing	System Testing
It enables you to assess, validate, and test the application design in addition to the business requirements.	A form of testing known as "system testing" determines whether the system as a whole satisfies both functional and non-functional criteria.
Integrity testing's primary goal is to find flaws in how components or sections communicate with one another.	The primary goal of system testing is to confirm that the system satisfies the requirements and is suitable for use in the environment intended.
Integration testing will primarily concentrate on the interfaces between components or modules.	The general conduct of the system is examined during system testing.
To make sure they function as intended, integration testing examines the relationships between components or subsystems.	System testing includes putting the system through realistic conditions to make sure it performs as anticipated in the target setting.
Typically, developers or testers who work closely with developers conduct integration testing.	Typically, testers who are not members of the programming team perform system testing.
White-box testing is a form of integration testing, which means that testers are familiar with the inner workings of the components or modules under test.	System testing is a type of "black-box" testing, which indicates that the testers are blind to how the system actually works.
Integration testing involves testing specific scenarios involving the interactions between components or subsystems.	System testing involves testing the system in a range of scenarios to ensure it works as intended under different conditions.
Integration testing is usually automated using testing frameworks and tools.	System testing is usually carried out manually, although some aspects may be automated using testing tools.
Integration testing is generally less expensive and less time-consuming than system testing.	System testing is generally more expensive and more time-consuming than integration testing.