Canary testing

Canary testing is a type of software testing that can be used to test new features or changes before they are released to the general public. This type of testing is useful for companies that need to make sure that their updates and changes are working correctly before they release them to their users.

There are a few key factors to consider when setting up a canary test:

• Set up: Before starting a canary test, it is important to set up the user groups and the parameters of the test. This includes setting the size of the canary group and defining the scope of the test.

• Measurement: It is important to decide on the metrics that will be used to measure the impact of the new feature. This could include user feedback, performance metrics, or conversion rates.

• Analysis: After the test is complete, it is important to analyze the results and draw conclusions from the data. This could involve comparing the performance of the canary group to the control group or looking for any trends or correlations.


What to Consider When Setting Up a Canary Test?

First, it is important to set up the user groups and the parameters of the test. This includes setting the size of the canary group (usually around 10-15%) and defining the scope of the test. It is also important to decide on the metrics that will be used to measure the impact of the new feature. This could include user feedback, performance metrics, or conversion rates.

Second, it is important to consider how users will be notified of the new feature. This could include a pop-up notification, email, or in-app message. This is important to ensure that users are aware of the new feature and that they have an opportunity to provide feedback.

Third, it is important to consider how the data from the test will be collected and analyzed. It is important to have a plan in place for how the data will be collected, stored, and analyzed. This could include using analytics tools or setting up custom tracking.

Finally, it is important to consider the timeline of the test. This includes setting a start and end date for the test and ensuring that the canary group has enough time to test out the feature.


Canary testing can be done in two ways:

The first way is to use an existing user base and give a small subset of those users access to the new features. This is a good option for companies that want to get feedback from a wide range of users. 

The second way is to create an entirely new user base and give them access to the new features. This is a good option for companies that want to test the new features with a smaller and more targeted user base.

No matter which method a company chooses to use for canary testing, it is important to make sure that the testing is thorough and that all the new features or changes are tested properly before they are released to the general public. This will ensure that any issues that arise are caught early and can be fixed before they become a bigger problem.

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