What is the purpose of functional testing?

The purpose of functional testing is to validate that the software meets specified requirements. This testing type focuses on ensuring that the application behaves as expected and delivers the required functionality according to the specifications. It involves testing user interactions and verifies that each function of the software application operates in conformance with the requirement documentation.

Functional testing assesses various aspects like user commands, data manipulation, searches, business processes, and integrations. The goal is to ensure that the application performs its intended functions correctly without errors, which directly correlates with the requirements set forth in the design and specifications.

The emphasis on compliance with requirements during functional testing is crucial because it helps stakeholders verify that what was developed aligns with what was promised. This alignment is key to the success of any software project, as it builds confidence in the product's usability from a functional perspective.