# How to Effectively Test for Machine Learning Systems?

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Machine Learning is a study of applying algorithms, behavioural data sets, and statistics to make your system learn by itself without any external help and procedure. As the Machine Learning model does not produce a concrete result, it generates approximate results or contingencies from your given dataset.

The earlier software system was human-driven, where we wrote code and logic, and the machine validated the logic and checked for the desired behaviour of the system and program. Our desired testing was based on the written logic and expected behaviour. But when it comes to testing for machine learning systems, we provide a certain set of behaviours as a training example to produce the logic of the system, and ensure that the system understands the logic and develops the model according to the desired behaviour.

## How to write a model test

Model testing is a technique where any software's runtime behaviour is recorded and tested under some dataset and prediction table that the model has already predicted.

Some model-based testing scenarios are used to describe numerous aspects of the Machine Learning model.

The way to test the model

• Test the basic logic of the model.
• Manage the performance using the concept of manual testing.
• Work on the accuracy of the model.
• Check the performance on the real data, try to use unit testing.

### Pre-train Testing

Pre-train tests: As per the name, pre-train testing is the testing technique that allows you to catch the bugs before even running the model. It checks whether there is any label missing in your training and validation dataset; and it does not require any running parameter.

The pre-train testing goal is to avoid wastage during training jobs.

Problem statement of pre-train testing:

• Check leakage label in your training dataset and validation dataset.
• Check the single gradient to find the loss of data.
• Check the shape of the dataset to ensure the alignment of data.

### Post-train Testing

Post Train Testing is used to check whether it performs all the validations correctly or not. The main purpose of post-train testing is to validate the logic behind the algorithm and find out the bugs, if any.

The post-train testing deals with the job behaviour.

They are basically of three types.

• Invariant tests
• Directional tests
• Minimum functional tests

### Invariant Test

Invariant Testing is the testing technique where we check how the input data is changing without affecting the entire performance of the Machine Learning model. Here each input model is paired with the prediction and maintains consistency.

Invariant testing provides a logical guarantee about the application; this is a very low testing technique. This type of testing is mainly observed in Domain-Driven Design (DDD). Invariant testing follows three basic steps:

• Identify invariants.
• Enforce invariants.
• Refactor necessary invariants.

### Directional Test

Directional testing is a type of hypothesis testing where a direction of testing is specified earlier to the testing. This testing technique is also known as a one-tailed test. Directional testing is way more powerful than the non-directional or invariant testing technique.

Unlike invariant testing, perturbation can change the outcome of the model in the provided input.

### Minimum functional test

Functional testing is used to check whether the software or model is working according to the pre-requisite dataset or not. This uses the black box testing technique.

Types of functional testing:

• Unit testing
• Smoke testing
• Sanity testing
• Usability testing
• Regression testing
• Integration testing

The minimum functional testing model works in a similar manner to a traditional unit testing technique where the data is classified into different   components, and the testing is applied over those components.

Ways to perform functional testing:

• Testing based on user requirements.
• Testing based on business requirements.

### Understanding the Model Development Pipeline

The pipelining concept in machine learning is used to automate the workflows. Machine Learning pipelines are iterative processes, repeated one after the another to improve the algorithm's accuracy and model, and achieve the required successful solution.

An evaluation of the Model development pipeline includes the following steps:

• Pre-Train Test.
• Post-Train Test.
• Train model.
• Evaluation of model.
• Review and approval of dataset.

Benefits of Model Testing:

• Easy maintenance.
• Less cost.
• Early detection.
• Less time-consuming.
• More job satisfaction.

### Issues while performing Model-Based Testing in Machine Learning

While working over any model, there are many shortcomings we have to deal with, which can be due to a design issue or implementation issues. Here are some drawbacks of the Model-Based Testing Technique:

• Deep understanding of problem statement is required.
• Different skill sets are required.
• More emphasis is placed on a learning curve.
• More human power is required.

## Adding testing in Machine Learning

When it comes to machine learning, almost every library used in Machine Learning modeling is well tested. When you make a code call, it uses the model predict in your machine learning algorithm, and it assures you that all the layers in the method and function are calling other functions at an invariant level. This model prediction helps you to determine the function working together to deliver the required result set using the test dataset and input predictions.

Image Source

There is always something to add to the Machine Learning libraries as they are not perfect. The initial test of the baseline is reasonable, and there is much more you can add to it as per the requirement. While working on the library, you can eventually find out the bug and limitation over the interface.

The complete testing procedure ends when all the functional and non-functional requirements of the product are fulfilled. The test case needs to be executed.

There are five test case parameters we have to deal with:

• The initial state of product or preconditions.
• Data management
• Input dataset.
• Predicted output.
• Expected output.

### Different types of testing Techniques

The main motive to perform the testing is to find the error and secure the system from future failure. The tester follows different testing techniques to assure the complete success of the system.

The main type of testing

1. Unit testing: The developer performs this to check whether the individual component of the model is working in accordance with the user requirement or not. It calls each unit and then validates each unit, returning the required value.
2. Regression testing: Regression testing ensures that even after adding the component or module, the overall model is not affected, and it works fine even after several modifications.
3. Alpha testing: This is the testing performed just before the deployment of the product. Alpha testing is also known as validation testing and comes under acceptance testing.
4. Beta testing: Beta testing or usability testing is released to a few members only for  testing purposes. This release is deployed several times to match the requirements of the user and validate them accordingly.
5. Integration testing: In Integration testing, the result set is taken from the unit testing, and the combination makes the program structure of the produced output. It helps the functional module to work together efficiently to produce the required output. It makes sure that the necessary standards of the system and model are met.

Integration Testing can be classified into two main testing mechanisms

• Black Box Testing: Black Box Testing is used for validation testing techniques.
• White Box Testing: White Box Testing is used for verification testing techniques.
1. Stress testing: Stress testing is a thorough testing technique where we follow deliberately intense mechanisms. It checks unfavourable conditions that might occur for the system and then checks how the modules react to those conditions.

Testing is performed beyond the simple operation and integration testing capacity. It verifies the system's stability, maintains the reliability of the system, and validates the correctness of the system.

## What is predictive analysis, and what are its uses

Predictive analysis is a branch of Advance analytics, where we predict the future events using past values and datasets.

Predictive analysis in a simple way is the analysis of the future, and makes different predictions over the historical data. Many organizations turn to predictive analysis to make the correct use of data to produce valuable insight in faster, cheaper, and easier ways.

How can predictive analysis be used?

Predictive analytics can be used to reduce the risk, optimize operations, increase revenue, and develop valuable insights.

Where is predictive analysis used?

• Retail sector.
• Banking and financial sector.
• Oil, gas & power utility sector.
• Health Insurance sector.
• Manufacturing sector.
• Public sector and government sector.

## Difference between Machine Learning and Predictive Analysis

To understand the depth of the topic, here is the difference between Machine Learning and Predictive Analysis.

Machine LearningPredictive Analysis
Machine Learning is used to solve many complex problems using different ML models.Predictive analysis is used to predict the future outcomes, where it utilizes the past data.
The Machine Learning model adapts and learns from the experience and datasets.The predictive analysis does not adapt the dataset.
In Machine Learning, human intervention is not required.In Predictive Analysis, we are required to program the system with the help of human intervention.
Machine Learning is said to be the data-driven approach because it depends on the dataset.Predictive analysis is not a data-driven approach.

## What does the tester need to know?

A tester should be aware of the following considerations:

• The tester should have complete knowledge of various scenarios like the best case, average case, worst-case scenarios, how the system behaves, and how its learning graph varies.
• What is the expected output, and what is the acceptable output for each test case?
• The tester is not required to know how the model works; and just needs to validate the test cases, learning model, and required scenarios.
• The tester should be an expert in communicating test results in the form of statistical outputs.
• The tester should easily validate the algorithm and dataset and control the calculations according to the training data.

## Best practices of Testing for Machine Learning in Non-Deterministic applications

Let us first understand what a Non-Deterministic Application is.

A Non-Deterministic system is a system in which the final result cannot be predicted because there are multiple possible ways and outcomes for each input. To identify the correct result, we need to perform a certain set of operations.

When dealing with the theoretical concept, the Non-Deterministic model is more useful than the deterministic one; therefore, in designing the system, sometimes we adopt a Non-deterministic approach and then move to a deterministic one.

Best Practice for Testing Non-Deterministic Applications:

• While testing, the Non-deterministic model performs continuous Integration and testing.
• Use model-based testing approach.
• Use an augmented approach as needes by the non-deterministic model.
• Use test asset management system, and treat them as first-class products.
• When dealing with a large set of data, perform testing on each operation at least once.
• Test all the illegal sequences of inputs with their correct response set of data.
• Always perform unit testing with extreme aberrant points.

The base goal of Machine Learning testing:

• QoS or Quality of Service, the main motive to provide the quality of the service to the user or the customer, can be said to be Quality Assurance.
• Remove all the defects and errors from the design implementation to avoid future consequences and issues.
• Find the bugs at the early stage of the project lifecycle.

## What is the importance of testing in a Machine Learning project?

Small misconceptions bring a lot of issues in the development lifecycle, and defects at the initial stage of product development lifecycle can cause collateral damage to the project or complete crashing of the project. Testing helps to identify the requirements, issues, and errors at the initial stage of the product development lifecycle.

• Testing helps to discover the defects and bugs before deploying the project, software, or system.
• The system becomes more reliable and scalable.
• More thorough checking of software provides more high-performance and more chances of successful deployment.
• It makes the system easy to use and gives more customer satisfaction.
• It improves the quality of the product and its efficiency.
• There is increased success rate and an easier learning graph.

Conclusion

This article is an attempt to cover the basic concepts for the tester in Machine Learning. It talks about testing mechanismsand indicates how to determine the best fit for your requirement. You will learn about different types of model tests, model test deployment pipeline, and different testing techniques. You will get insights about the Machine learning test automation tools and requirementsand understand the most important aspect of machine Learning testing data, dataset, and learning graphs.

The tester is made aware of the Machine Learning project's basic requirement, deep understanding of the datasetsand how to organize the data so that it acts according to the user demand. If you work according to the procedure, the result will be accurate to some point.

The model should be more responsive and informative to develop business insightsAs part of the last phase of the project development lifecycle, testing is a very important and critical step to be followed.

### Abhresh Sugandhi

Author

Abhresh is specialized as a corporate trainer, He has a decade of experience in technical training blended with virtual webinars and instructor-led session created courses, tutorials, and articles for organizations. He is also the founder of Nikasio.com, which offers multiple services in technical training, project consulting, content development, etc.

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If you are even remotely interested in technology you would have heard of machine learning. In fact machine learning is now a buzzword and there are dozens of articles and research papers dedicated to it. Machine learning is a technique which makes the machine learn from past experiences. Complex domain problems can be resolved quickly and efficiently using Machine Learning techniques. We are living in an age where huge amounts of data are produced every second. This explosion of data has led to creation of machine learning models which can be used to analyse data and to benefit businesses. This article tries to answer a few important concepts related to Machine Learning and informs you about the career path in this prestigious and important domain.What is Machine Learning?So, here’s your introduction to Machine Learning. This term was coined in the year 1997. “A computer program is said to learn from experience E with respect to some class of tasks T and performance measure P, if its performance at the tasks improves with the experiences.”, as defined in the book on ML written by Mitchell in 1997. The difference between a traditional programming and programming using Machine Learning is depicted here, the first Approach (a) is a traditional approach, and second approach (b) is a Machine Learning based approach.Machine Learning encompasses the techniques in AI which allow the system to learn automatically looking at the data available. While learning, the system tries to improve the experience without making any explicit efforts in programming. Any machine learning application follows the following steps broadlySelecting the training datasetAs the definition indicates, machine learning algorithms require past experience, that is data, for learning. So, selection of appropriate data is the key for any machine learning application.Preparing the dataset by preprocessing the dataOnce the decision about the data is made, it needs to be prepared for use. Machine learning algorithms are very susceptible to the small changes in data. To get the right insights, data must be preprocessed which includes data cleaning and data transformation. Exploring the basic statistics and properties of dataTo understand what the data wishes to convey, the data engineer or Machine Learning engineer needs to understand the properties of data in detail. These details are understood by studying the statistical properties of data. Visualization is an important process to understand the data in detail.Selecting the appropriate algorithm to apply on the datasetOnce the data is ready and understood in detail, then appropriate Machine Learning algorithms or models are selected. The choice of algorithm depends on characteristics of data as well as type of task to be performed on the data. The choice also depends on what kind of output is required from the data.Checking the performance and fine-tuning the parameters of the algorithmThe model or algorithm chosen is fine-tuned to get improved performance. If multiple models are applied, then they are weighed against the performance. The final algorithm is again fine-tuned to get appropriate output and performance.Why Pursue a Career in Machine Learning in 2021?A recent survey has estimated that the jobs in AI and ML have grown by more than 300%. Even before the pandemic struck, Machine Learning skills were in high demand and the demand is expected to increase two-fold in the near future.A career in machine learning gives you the opportunity to make significant contributions in AI, the future of technology. All the big and small businesses are adopting Machine Learning models to improve their bottom-line margins and return on investment. The use of Machine Learning has gone beyond just technology and it is now used in diverse industries including healthcare, automobile, manufacturing, government and more. This has greatly enhanced the value of Machine Learning experts who can earn an average salary of$112,000.  Huge numbers of jobs are expected to be created in the coming years.  Here are a few reasons why one should pursue a career in Machine Learning:The global machine learning market is expected to touch \$20.83B in 2024, according to Forbes.  We are living in a digital age and this explosion of data has made the use of machine learning models a necessity. Machine Learning is the only way to extract meaning out of data and businesses need Machine Learning engineers to analyze huge data and gain insights from them to improve their businesses.If you like numbers, if you like research, if you like to read and test and if you have a passion to analyse, then machine learning is the career for you. Learning the right tools and programming languages will help you use machine learning to provide appropriate solutions to complex problems, overcome challenges and grow the business.Machine Learning is a great career option for those interested in computer science and mathematics. They can come up with new Machine Learning algorithms and techniques to cater to the needs of various business domains.As explained above, a career in machine learning is both rewarding and lucrative. There are huge number of opportunities available if you have the right expertise and knowledge. On an average, Machine Learning engineers get higher salaries, than other software developers.Years of experience in the Machine Learning domain, helps you break into data scientist roles, which is not just among the hottest careers of our generation but also a highly respected and lucrative career. Right skills in the right business domain helps you progress and make a mark for yourself in your organization. For example, if you have expertise in pharmaceutical industries and experience working in Machine learning, then you may land job roles as a data scientist consultant in big pharmaceutical companies.Statistics on Machine learning growth and the industries that use MLAccording to a research paper in AI Multiple (https://research.aimultiple.com/ml-stats/), the Machine Learning market will grow to 9 Billion USD by the end of 2022. There are various areas where Machine Learning models and solutions are getting deployed, and businesses see an overall increase of 44% investments in this area. North America is one of the leading regions in the adoption of Machine Learning followed by Asia.The Global Machine Learning market will grow by 42% which is evident from the following graph. Image sourceThere is a huge demand for Machine Learning modelling because of the large use of Cloud Based Applications and Services. The pandemic has changed the face of businesses, making them heavily dependent on Cloud and AI based services. Google, IBM, and Amazon are just some of the companies that have invested heavily in AI and Machine Learning based application development, to provide robust solutions for problems faced by small to large scale businesses. Machine Learning and Cloud based solutions are scalable and secure for all types of business.ML analyses and interprets data patterns, computing and developing algorithms for various business purposes.Advantages of Machine Learning courseNow that we have established the advantages of perusing a career in Machine Learning, let’s understand from where to start our machine learning journey. The best option would be to start with a Machine Learning course. There are various platforms which offer popular Machine Learning courses. One can always start with an online course which is both effective and safe in these COVID times.These courses start with an introduction to Machine Learning and then slowly help you to build your skills in the domain. Many courses even start with the basics of programming languages such as Python, which are important for building Machine Learning models. Courses from reputed institutions will hand hold you through the basics. Once the basics are clear, you may switch to an offline course and get the required certification.Online certifications have the same value as offline classes. They are a great way to clear your doubts and get personalized help to grow your knowledge. These courses can be completed along with your normal job or education, as most are self-paced and can be taken at a time of your convenience. There are plenty of online blogs and articles to aid you in completion of your certification.Machine Learning courses include many real time case studies which help you in understanding the basics and application aspects. Learning and applying are both important and are covered in good Machine Learning Courses. So, do your research and pick an online tutorial that is from a reputable institute.What Does the Career Path in Machine Learning Look Like?One can start their career in Machine Learning domain as a developer or application programmer. But the acquisition of the right skills and experience can lead you to various career paths. Following are some of the career options in Machine Learning (not an exhaustive list):Data ScientistA data scientist is a person with rich experience in a particular business field. A person who has a knowledge of domain, as well as machine learning modelling, is a data scientist. Data Scientists’ job is to study the data carefully and suggest accurate models to improve the business.AI and Machine Learning EngineerAn AI engineer is responsible for choosing the proper Machine Learning Algorithm based on natural language processing and neural network. They are responsible for applying it in AI applications like personalized advertising.  A Machine Learning Engineer is responsible for creating the appropriate models for improvement of the businessData EngineerA Data Engineer, as the name suggests, is responsible to collect data and make it ready for the application of Machine Learning models. Identification of the right data and making it ready for extraction of further insights is the main work of a data engineer.Business AnalystA person who studies the business and analyzes the data to get insights from it is a Business Analyst. He or she is responsible for extracting the insights from the data at hand.Business Intelligence (BI) DeveloperA BI developer uses Machine Learning and Data Analytics techniques to work on a large amount of data. Proper representation of data to suit business decisions, using the latest tools for creation of intuitive dashboards is the role of a BI developer.  Human Machine Interface learning engineerCreating tools using machine learning techniques to ease the human machine interaction or automate decisions, is the role of a Human Machine Interface learning engineer. This person helps in generating choices for users to ease their work.Natural Language Processing (NLP) engineer or developerAs the name suggests, this person develops various techniques to process Natural Language constructs. Building applications or systems using machine learning techniques to build Natural Language based applications is their main task. They create multilingual Chatbots for use in websites and other applications.Why are Machine Learning Roles so popular?As mentioned above, the market growth of AI and ML has increased tremendously over the past years. The Machine Learning Techniques are applied in every domain including marketing, sales, product recommendations, brand retention, creating advertising, understanding the sentiments of customer, security, banking and more. Machine learning algorithms are also used in emails to ease the users work. This says a lot, and proves that a career in Machine Learning is in high demand as all businesses are incorporating various machine learning techniques and are improving their business.One can harness this popularity by skilling up with Machine Learning skills. Machine Learning models are now being used by every company, irrespective of their size--small or big, to get insights on their data and use these insights to improve the business. As every company wishes to grow faster, they are deploying more machine learning engineers to get their work done on time. Also, the migration of businesses to Cloud services for better security and scalability, has increased their requirement for more Machine Learning algorithms and models to cater to their needs.Introducing the Machine learning techniques and solutions has brought huge returns for businesses.  Machine Learning solution providers like Google, IBM, Microsoft etc. are investing in human resources for development of Machine Learning models and algorithms. The tools developed by them are popularly used by businesses to get early returns. It has been observed that there is significant increase in patents in Machine Learning domains since the past few years, indicating the quantum of work happening in this domain.Machine Learning SkillsLet’s visit a few important skills one must acquire to work in the domain of Machine Learning.Programming languagesKnowledge of programming is very important for a career in Machine Learning. Languages like Python and R are popularly used to develop applications using Machine Learning models and algorithms. Python, being the simplest and most flexible language, is very popular for AI and Machine Learning applications. These languages provide rich support of libraries for implementation of Machine Learning Algorithms. A person who is good in programming can work very efficiently in this domain.Mathematics and StatisticsThe base for Machine Learning is mathematics and statistics. Statistics applied to data help in understanding it in micro detail. Many machine learning models are based on the probability theory and require knowledge of linear algebra, transformations etc. A good understanding of statistics and probability increases the early adoption to Machine Learning domain.Analytical toolsA plethora of analytical tools are available where machine learning models are already implemented and made available for use. Also, these tools are very good for visualization purposes. Tools like IBM Cognos, PowerBI, Tableue etc are important to pursue a career as a  Machine Learning engineer.Machine Learning Algorithms and librariesTo become a master in this domain, one must master the libraries which are provided with various programming languages. The basic understanding of how machine learning algorithms work and are implemented is crucial.Data Modelling for Machine Learning based systemsData lies at the core of any Machine Learning application. So, modelling the data to suit the application of Machine Learning algorithms is an important task. Data modelling experts are the heart of development teams that develop machine learning based systems. SQL based solutions like Oracle, SQL Server, and NoSQL solutions are important for modelling data required for Machine Learning applications. MongoDB, DynamoDB, Riak are some important NOSQL based solutions available to process unstructured data for Machine Learning applications.Other than these skills, there are two other skills that may prove to be beneficial for those planning on a career in the Machine Learning domain:Natural Language processing techniquesFor E-commerce sites, customer feedback is very important and crucial in determining the roadmap of future products. Many customers give reviews for the products that they have used or give suggestions for improvement. These feedbacks and opinions are analyzed to gain more insights about the customers buying habits as well as about the products. This is part of natural language processing using Machine Learning. The likes of Google, Facebook, Twitter are developing machine learning algorithms for Natural Language Processing and are constantly working on improving their solutions. Knowledge of basics of Natural Language Processing techniques and libraries is must in the domain of Machine Learning.Image ProcessingKnowledge of Image and Video processing is very crucial when a solution is required to be developed in the area of security, weather forecasting, crop prediction etc. Machine Learning based solutions are very effective in these domains. Tools like Matlab, Octave, OpenCV are some important tools available to develop Machine Learning based solutions which require image or video processing.ConclusionMachine Learning is a technique to automate the tasks based on past experiences. This is among the most lucrative career choices right now and will continue to remain so in the future. Job opportunities are increasing day by day in this domain. Acquiring the right skills by opting for a proper Machine Learning course is important to grow in this domain. You can have an impressive career trajectory as a machine learning expert, provided you have the right skills and expertise.
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Why Should You Start a Career in Machine Learning?

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