Observations on the implementation and testing of scripted Web applications

Abstract

Scripting languages have become a very popular choice for implementing server-side programs in Web applications. Scripting languages are thought to provide quick start up and enhance programmer productivity. We present two case studies in which scripting languages were used. In both studies, the projects struggled with implementation; however, project factors such as the strength of management and the training of the development team are thought to out weigh the choice of programming language in terms of impact on project success. The choice to implement a Web application with a scripting language can lead to undisciplined behavior on the part of management and the development team, so caution must be exercised when implementing complex applications. Testers of scripted implementations should adjust their risk profile to match the error-prone aspects of the language. Dynamically type checked scripting languages are likely to be susceptible to type errors. Scripting languages are powerful enough to successfully implement complex e-commerce applications as long as management and software engineering practice are strong.