iGaming platforms need to address the common challenges of any online entertainment platform: fast loading times, smooth user experience, and device compatibility. With regular testing, software developers can overcome these challenges and provide experiences that players return for over and over again.
There are various types of tests you can conduct for iGaming customer journey processes. These tests can be automated or manual with both ways having pros and cons.
One crucial—but sometimes overlooked—testing method is exploratory testing, where users perform unscripted tests to identify the platform’s most common issues. In this article we’ll share 14 takeaways from recent TESTA case studies. But first, let’s define exploratory testing.
What is exploratory testing?
QA testing, which follows a script, is crucial for spotting core errors. However, exploratory testing allows for a more flexible approach, letting users interact with the platform and detect bugs naturally.
This method emphasizes user freedom and is different from Monkey Testing, which involves random inputs. With exploratory testing, users learn the system as real users would.
14 need-to-knows about exploratory testing
Online casinos and sports betting apps need to know how everyday players interact with their intended user experience. To do so, exploratory testing can offer some surprising observations.
This list of 14 things iGaming exploratory testing reveals was compiled by TESTA service delivery managers from data provided by the TESTA Qrowd—the only worldwide testing community dedicated just to iGaming.
1. Unsynchronized video and audio in a live dealer game
Testers uncovered that, although they could successfully place a bet, the video sometimes had no sound. Additionally, the live dealer game video sometimes abruptly stopped, negatively impacting the gameplay experience.
2. Limited virtual currency deposit options
The availability of virtual currency deposit chains for this operator is currently limited. Expanding support for quickly depositing various cryptocurrencies would enhance the user experience and provide more flexibility for payment methods.
3. Poor internet connection and lag in live dealer games
This market experienced poor connectivity to the operator’s server, leading to poorer-than-expected quality in live dealer games. We recommended optimizing the CDN configuration for that target market to enhance performance and gameplay.
4. Lag caused by excessive animations in the game
Excessive animations inside the game resulted in game-lag every time the animations appeared, negatively impacting the overall gameplay experience for users.
Animations might enhance user experience if their device is powerful enough to handle them. But the widespread use of low-powered mobile devices means it’s better to have these animations off by default and allow the user to switch them on.
5. Post-betting crashes reduced confidence
After placing a bet in blackjack, several users experienced game crashes, raising concerns about potential fraudulent activities.
The experience shines a stark light on perception versus reality. User perception is essential. Although this operator works globally and is well-respected and trusted, users still felt uncomfortable when their games crashed straight after placing a bet. Such errors can lead to higher platform abandonment rates.
6. Lengthy loading times without reload mechanism or notification
The game often experienced prolonged loading times without an automatic reload mechanism or notifications, causing users to wait endlessly, thus negatively affecting user experience.
7. Accidental double-clicks due to mobile lag
Frequent lags on mobile devices often led to double clicks and unintended duplicates. To prevent this, the operator could implement a masking prompt, such as an overlay with a loading spinner, to indicate that the device received the click and is processing it.
8. Inaccurate search results in mobile keyword search
The keyword search functionality on mobile devices failed to display accurate results in both English and the local language.
9. Incorrect translations
Errors exist in local translations due to the operator’s rapid global expansion. Local players might have difficulty understanding or misinterpreting the content.
10. Payment transaction delays and failures
Testers identified instances where payment transactions experienced delays or failed to process, resulting in inconvenience and frustration for players.
11. Inconsistent bonus terms and conditions
During exploratory testing, we discovered that one operator had inconsistent terms and conditions for bonus offers across different sections of the platform. This inconsistency can lead to misunderstandings and disputes between players and the operator.
12. Inadequate responsible gambling features
One platform didn’t provide all the necessary responsible gambling features, such as self-exclusion options, deposit limits, and reality checks.
13. Erroneous payouts
Exploratory testing revealed moments of game malfunctions, such as incorrect payouts or unexpected errors during gameplay. These issues can undermine the integrity of the platform and erode player trust.
14. Insufficient customer support responsiveness
During testing, we observed that customer support had inadequate response times, with delays in addressing player queries and concerns.
How to easily improve UX for your platform
Testing is essential to ensure your iGaming platform runs smoothly and provides a positive experience for all its users and exploratory testing should not be overlooked.
TESTA is a software testing company that focuses on the iGaming market. We provide tailored crowdtesting, automated testing, and manual exploratory testing to ensure your gaming platform runs excellently and compliantly across all devices and geographic zones.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you improve your platform through high-quality exploratory testing.
About the author
Ian McKinnon
TESTA Head of Marketing