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What is Website and App Testing?
Businesses understand the importance of providing an excellent user experience on their websites and apps. For this reason, companies are eager to ensure their digital products are intuitive, bug-free, and user-friendly before releasing them to the public.
That’s where website and app testing come in—a growing field that allows ordinary people to earn money online by providing feedback on usability, design, and functionality. Testing websites and apps has emerged as a lucrative way to make extra cash while helping companies improve their products. Whether you’re a technical individual or a beginner looking for a flexible side hustle, website and app testing offers a unique opportunity to earn from the comfort of your own home.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at website and app testing – how to get started, the best platforms to use, potential earnings, and tips for maximizing your opportunities in this field. Let’s explore how you can turn your internet browsing skills into a profitable side gig.
How to Get Started with Website and App Testing
Getting started as a website and app tester is very straightforward. You don’t need extensive technical skills or a background in programming; all you need is a computer, smartphone, or tablet, a reliable internet connection, and a willingness to provide honest feedback. Here are the steps to get started:
- Sign Up for Testing Platforms: Begin by registering on popular website and app testing platforms. These platforms connect testers with companies looking for user feedback. Typically, you’ll need to create a profile, which includes basic personal information and details about the devices you own.
- Complete Your Profile: A complete and detailed profile increases your chances of being selected for testing opportunities. Include information about your demographic (age, gender, location) and your technical setup (type of devices, operating systems). Some platforms might ask you to complete a sample test to evaluate your testing capabilities.
- Familiarize Yourself with Testing Guidelines: Each platform and project may have different requirements. Make sure you read through the testing guidelines provided by the platform. These guidelines will help you understand what to look for and how to provide feedback effectively.
- Prepare Your Testing Environment: Ensure your devices are updated, and you have necessary screen recording software installed (if required). Find a quiet space where you can focus on your testing tasks without interruptions.
- Start Accepting Testing Opportunities: Once your profile is set up and you understand the guidelines, you can start accepting testing jobs. These jobs may involve testing websites or apps for bugs, usability issues, or user experience concerns.
Top Platforms for Website and App Testing
There are numerous platforms where you can sign up to become a website and app tester. Here are some of the most popular and reliable ones:
1. UserTesting
UserTesting is one of the most well-known platforms in this field – and comes highly recommended. It connects testers with companies like Microsoft, Adobe, and Facebook, offering a chance to test high-profile apps and websites. Testers on UserTesting are required to record their screen and voice while completing a series of tasks. This real-time feedback helps companies understand how users interact with their digital products.
How It Works: Testers receive tests based on their demographic profile. A typical test takes about 10-20 minutes to complete, and you can earn between $10 to $60 per test.
2. TryMyUI
TryMyUI offers a straightforward approach to usability testing. Testers sign up, take a qualification test to show they understand the process, and then start receiving testing opportunities. Tests usually involve using a website or app and completing tasks while narrating thoughts and reactions. For example, Testers might be asked to navigate through a new e-commerce site and give feedback on how easy it is to find a product and complete a purchase.
How It Works: Each test takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and you can earn $10 for each completed test. Payments are made weekly via PayPal.
3. Userlytics
Userlytics provides a wide range of testing opportunities, including usability testing, concept testing, and card sorting. What makes Userlytics unique is the ability to test on different devices, including desktops, tablets, and mobile phones.
How It Works: After signing up, testers receive invitations to participate in tests that match their demographic profile. You can earn between $5 to $90 per test, depending on its complexity.
4. Testbirds
Testbirds offers both functional testing and usability testing for websites, apps, and IoT devices. They focus on helping companies improve their user experience by offering feedback from real users. For example, a project may involve testing a newly launched fitness app, providing insights on its user interface and navigation ease.
How It Works: Sign up as a tester and participate in tests that match your profile. Earnings can vary, but testers can make around €20 per test. Testbirds also offers a point-based reward system, which can be exchanged for gift cards or cash.
5. uTest
uTest is a popular platform that offers a wide range of testing opportunities, including functional testing, localization testing, and security testing. Testers can join various projects and provide feedback on software, websites, and apps from companies around the world.
How It Works: uTest operates on a project-based model. Testers are paid based on the number of bugs they find or the quality of their feedback. Earnings vary, with some testers making hundreds of dollars per month depending on their level of involvement.
Potential Earnings as a Website and App Tester
The amount you can earn from website and app testing varies based on several factors, including the platform you use, the complexity of the tests, and the number of tests you complete. On average, testers earn between $5 and $60 per test, with some complex tests offering even higher payouts.
- Hourly Rate: If you consistently receive and complete tests, you can expect to earn anywhere from $10 to $30 per hour. While it may not replace a full-time income, it’s a great way to supplement your earnings.
- Consistency is Key: Building a good reputation as a tester can lead to more frequent and higher-paying opportunities. Some testers find it helpful to sign up on multiple platforms to increase their chances of receiving testing invitations.
Best Practices for Success in Website and App Testing
To maximize your success and earnings as a website and app tester, consider the following best practices:
- Provide Honest and Constructive Feedback: Companies value honest feedback. If you encounter issues or challenges while testing, provide detailed explanations. Constructive feedback helps companies improve their products and increases your chances of being selected for more tests.
- Follow Testing Guidelines: Each testing platform or project may have specific instructions. Always follow these guidelines to ensure your feedback is valuable and relevant. Deviating from the guidelines can lead to disqualification from future testing opportunities.
- Stay Consistent and Be Responsive: Testing opportunities can sometimes be limited. Make it a habit to check your email or testing platform regularly for new invitations. Accepting and completing tests promptly shows reliability and can lead to more testing offers.
- Improve Your Testing Skills: Take advantage of resources and tutorials provided by testing platforms. Learning about common usability issues, understanding design principles, and enhancing your analytical skills can make you a more effective tester.
- Diversify Your Testing Portfolio: Sign up for multiple testing platforms to increase your chances of getting more tests. Each platform may have different types of tests, which can add variety to your work and increase your earnings potential.
The Opportunity of Website and App Testing
Website and app testing offers a flexible, engaging, and profitable way to earn money online. By testing digital products, you’re not only helping companies improve their user experience but also gaining valuable insights into the world of digital design and usability.
As technology continues to advance, the demand for testers who can provide honest and insightful feedback will only grow.
Whether you’re looking to make some extra cash or seeking a steady side hustle, website and app testing is a viable option worth exploring.
