What is the primary purpose of performance testing in software projects?

The primary purpose of performance testing in software projects is to evaluate system performance and load capacity. This type of testing focuses on how an application behaves under various conditions, such as different levels of user load, response times, and resource utilization. It helps determine whether the software can handle expected user traffic and workloads, ensuring that it meets performance expectations in real-world scenarios.

By conducting performance testing, project teams can identify bottlenecks, determine scalability, and assess the system's stability under high demand. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about system improvements and preparing the software for deployment in a production environment. Ultimately, performance testing plays a vital role in ensuring that end-users have a seamless experience and that the software can operate effectively over time.