Functional testing is a crucial part of the software development process. It is a type of software testing that verifies the software against the functional requirements and specifications of the end user1. The goal of functional testing is to validate if the system’s features, capabilities, and interactions match the requirements specified for/by the end user1.

Functional testing can be performed either manually or using automation tools1. It involves testing individual functions with suitable inputs, and the outputs are validated to ensure that they align with the predefined functional requirements1.

Functional testing is important for several reasons. First, it helps to ensure that the software meets the needs and expectations of the end user. By verifying that each function works as intended, functional testing helps to prevent issues and defects that could impact the user experience.

Second, functional testing helps to improve the overall quality of the software. By identifying and addressing issues early in the development process, functional testing can help to reduce the risk of costly and time-consuming rework later on.

Third, functional testing can help to increase user confidence in the software. When users know that the software has been thoroughly tested and validated, they are more likely to trust it and use it with confidence.

In summary, functional testing is an essential part of the software development process that helps to ensure that the software meets the needs of the end user, improves overall quality, and increases user confidence. It is a critical step in delivering high-quality software that meets the expectations of its users.