Testing failure recovery paths

Testing AI means testing failures, not just successes. Users judge systems by how well they handle problems. Spend as much time testing recovery paths as main features.

Create real-world failure conditions. Test with bad photos, noisy audio, slow internet, and confusing inputs. These situations show whether your recovery tools actually help. Each test should match real user experiences.

Measure the right outcomes. Count how many users reach their goals despite errors, not just error rates. A system that fails often but recovers well might satisfy users more than one that fails rarely but leaves users stuck. Test with different user types. Experts want quick manual options. Beginners need step-by-step guidance. Stressed users have different needs than relaxed ones. Your recovery design must work for everyone.