Testing Web Services: Belize-Style

Web service testing is a type of software testing that validates web services. It involves checking the functionality, reliability, performance, and security of an API (Application Program Interface). To test a web service, you can either create your own automation code or use an off-the-shelf automation tool like Agilitest. Belize, a country brimming with biodiversity and offering various tourist attractions, has several approved testing sites throughout the country. These sites provide COVID-19 testing and other medical services for travelers and locals. With this infrastructure in place, Belize ensures the safety and well-being of its populace and visitors.

Testing web services with Agilitest

Agilitest is a no-code test automation tool that enables users to create and maintain automated functional tests at scale. It is designed to empower testers and QA teams and improve software quality. Agilitest supports web service testing, which is a type of software testing that validates web services by checking the functionality, reliability, performance, and security of an API (Application Program Interface).

To test a web service with Agilitest, users can either create their own automation code or use Agilitest's off-the-shelf automation tool to save time. Web services automation testing involves the following steps:

• Understanding the WSDL file
• Determining the operations provided by the web service
• Determining the XML request format to be sent
• Determining the response XML format
• Using a tool or writing code to send a request and validate the response

Agilitest makes it possible to test web services on two dominant technologies: SOAP and REST. SOAP is very structured with a return flow in XML, while REST is more recent and flexible, with a return flow in JSON. Opening a channel in Agilitest is done by selecting the web service address and the desired HTTP authentication. Agilitest also allows for the opening of channels on other applications simultaneously, enabling the retrieval of additional information and the performance of checks.

The information returned by the web service is visible in a dedicated internal web services viewer within Agilitest. Calling a service is done using the REST web service or SOAP web service navigation action. Users can define the web service calling method (SOAP or JSON) and navigate to a SOAP web service. The web service call return is displayed in the viewer, and Agilitest's capture mode is automatically activated, allowing users to select the response elements they want to retrieve.

Agilitest also supports client certificates management for web services testing actions. Certificates in ".pfx" format can be copied under the "assets/certs" directory. The certificate path in this directory determines which scripts the certificate will be applied to. For example, a certificate at the root of "assets/certs" will be applied to all ATS scripts, while a certificate in "assets/certs/ws/functional/domain" will be applied to all ATS scripts located in the "src/ats/functional/domain/" directory.

Agilitest's web service testing capabilities are fully integrated with its other features, such as channel management, variable management, sub-scripts, and data-driven testing. It also includes more complex technical functions like certificate management for secure connections, making it a competitive solution in the market.

Web performance and load testing

Understanding Website Capacity

It is essential to determine how many users your website can handle concurrently. This information will help you identify potential bottlenecks and make informed decisions about scaling your website's infrastructure. Website reliability and load testing services can provide valuable insights into your website's capacity and ways to increase it.

Simulating User Activity

To assess your website's performance under pressure, simulate a high volume of user activity. This can be done by generating load from cloud-based sources or on-premises machines. Tools like WebLOAD allow you to perform load and stress testing on any internet application, helping you identify issues and bottlenecks that may impact your website's performance.

API Performance

Behind every well-performing website is a well-performing API. Ensure that your APIs are optimised for speed and scalability by conducting automated API tests. This will help you identify any potential issues with your API's performance and make the necessary adjustments.

Mobile Optimisation

With the increasing number of mobile users, it is crucial to ensure that your website performs well on mobile devices. Conduct mobile-specific load testing to understand how your website handles high mobile traffic and optimise it for speed and functionality on smartphones and tablets.

Server Configuration

Proper web server configuration is essential for optimal website performance. Test different combinations of web server settings to find the optimal configuration for your specific needs. This will help you strike the right balance between performance and resource utilisation.

Database Optimisation

Your database code can sometimes be a bottleneck for your website's performance. Use specialised reports, such as a DB report, to identify SQL statements that need optimisation. This will help speed up data retrieval and improve your website's overall performance.

Global Performance

If your website caters to a global audience, it is crucial to optimise its performance for users worldwide. Utilise cloud-based tools to identify which users are experiencing delays and optimise your server placement strategy accordingly. This will ensure that your website delivers a fast and reliable experience regardless of the user's location.

Free and Licensed Tools

There are various free and licensed performance testing tools available, such as LoadNinja, ReadyAPI Performance, LoadView, and more. These tools offer different features, such as scriptless load testing, real browser load testing, and advanced load testing features. Take advantage of free trials to find the tool that best suits your specific needs and requirements.

Testing at the airport

The Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize offers COVID-19 testing facilities for travellers. The airport has a list of approved testing sites, including public and private testing facilities. Testing sites at airports are usually in collaboration with health departments and offer free testing to residents. For example, the MSP Airport in Minnesota has a free testing site for Minnesota residents in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Health and Vault Health.

Testing sites at airports offer convenience for travellers, providing rapid test results and, in some cases, prescriptions for COVID-19 pills for eligible patients. Testing sites are typically located in the lobby or designated areas within the terminal. It is recommended to schedule an appointment in advance to reduce wait times.

XpresCheck, in collaboration with the CDC and Concentric by Ginkgo, is another example of an airport testing service. They perform biosurveillance at several US airports, including JFK International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport, to detect COVID-19 and other emerging infectious diseases. Their tests include nasal swabs and wastewater testing on international flights.

It is important to note that travel requirements, including testing and vaccine mandates, can change frequently. Therefore, it is advised to contact your airline directly or visit their website for the most current restrictions and guidance.

Testing at public health facilities

The Ministry of Health and Wellness has released a list of approved testing sites throughout Belize. The following public health facilities offer testing for travellers:

• Central Health Region
• Cleopatra White Polyclinic
• Corozal Community Hospital
• Northern Regional Hospital
• San Ignacio Hospital
• Western Regional Hospital
• Independence Polyclinic
• Southern Regional Hospital
• Punta Gorda Hospital

The cost of testing varies depending on the facility and the type of test required. Antigen testing starts at US$75, while PCR tests cost US$200. It is recommended that you contact the relevant facility directly to verify pricing and opening times.

Please note that, as per the CDC's new requirements, all travellers whose destination is the USA must be tested for coronavirus.

Testing at private health facilities

The Ministry of Health & Wellness has released a list of approved testing sites throughout the country, including private health facilities. These facilities offer both PCR and rapid antigen testing.

• Belize Diagnostic Center
• Belize Healthcare Partners
• Belize Medical Associates
• Belize Physicians Associates Ltd.
• Caring Hands Antigen Test Center
• D's Clinic
• Belmopan Medical Center
• St. Luke's Medical Center

The cost of testing varies depending on the facility and the type of test required. Antigen testing starts at US$75, while PCR tests are generally more expensive. It is recommended to contact the testing facility directly to verify pricing and other relevant information.

Please note that as of August 9, 2021, all travellers entering Belize, regardless of vaccination status, are required to present a negative COVID-19 test (either PCR or approved antigen test) taken within a specified timeframe before travel. This requirement applies to both the Philip Goldson International Airport and the land borders.

Frequently asked questions