How to develop a Bug Tracking System for your app

Nobody likes bugs.

According to one study, 78% of users notice glitches and bugs in their apps, and 29% notice glitches and bugs one or more times per week.

Whether you’re building the first app for your business or expanding an existing one, it’s wise to have an effective bug-tracking system. Not only will it help to identify and fix bugs in your software, but it can also improve collaboration and the final product’s quality. 

Below, the Zudu team has compiled a comprehensive overview of creating an efficient bug-tracking system for mobile app development.

 

Choosing the right system

Bug tracking systems come in various forms, each with unique features and benefits for different scenarios. Open Source Systems, for example, are free, highly customisable, and maintained by a community of developers. While they offer flexibility and significant community support, they may lack consistent support and updates.

On the other hand, Commercial Systems are paid solutions, like Jira, which are user-friendly and offer advanced features, including automated bug detection and project management integration. They are ideal for larger teams but can be costly.

You may also want to consider a Cloud-Based System. Accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, these systems often include features like automatic backups and security measures. However, they may require ongoing subscription fees and can have limited customisation options.

In-House Systems, developed internally by a development team, offer complete control and can be tailored to specific needs. They require significant technical knowledge and resources, like Apple’s internal system, Radar, to set up and maintain.

 

Setting up your system

If you’re keen to set up a bug-tracking system for your app, start by assessing the scope of your project and the specific needs of your development team. Consider the team’s size, the type of project, and any required integrations with other tools or specific compliance requirements. Balance factors such as cost, features, and compatibility with your existing devices when choosing the right one (we’ve outlined the most significant benefits of each above).

Ensure the system aligns with your budget, offers the necessary features for your team’s workflow, and tailor the system to fit your team’s specific workflows and requirements. This may involve configuring settings, adding custom fields, or creating new workflows.

You should also consider developing training materials and providing hands-on training to ensure everyone is proficient in using the new system. Encourage feedback and questions to improve the user experience continuously. Then, create test scenarios to verify the accuracy of bug reporting and tracking. Involve your team in this process to ensure the system meets their needs and make necessary adjustments.

 

Best practices

When working on a bug tracking system, ensure consistent bug reporting, prioritise bugs based on severity, assign bugs to the right team members, set realistic fix deadlines, and regularly review and update bug status. You should consider incorporating bug tracking into your mobile development lifecycle and project management tools. Automate tracking where possible and hold regular meetings to review bug status and process efficiency.

 

Wrapping up

The right bug-tracking system for your app can lead to more efficient workflows and a higher-quality final product. Follow these steps and best practices, and you can ensure that your team is well-equipped to handle any issues arising during development.

If you’re looking for support with mobile app development, reach out to the team at Zudu today for a consultation.