How to user test a Bubble app

The simplest and most reliable way to user‑test a Bubble app is to use Bubble’s Development and Live versions, create dedicated test user accounts, turn on debug mode, and give testers access through a controlled link (usually the Development version). You test the real workflows, data creation, and privacy rules without exposing the live app. You do this by deploying to Development, inviting testers, collecting feedback, and monitoring the logs.

Basic Structure for User Testing

You test a Bubble app by letting real users interact with the Development version (version-test), which is safe because it uses the Development database. You observe their behavior using Bubble’s Debugger, App Data tab, and Server Logs. When everything works, you deploy to Live and test again there with a small group before opening to real users.

• Development version URL: https://yourapp.com/version-test
• Live version URL: https://yourapp.com

Step-by-Step: How to Run User Tests

• Create test users. In the Data → App Data tab, switch to Development, click “New entry” on the User type, and manually create test accounts. This prevents mixing test data with live users.
• Turn on debug mode. Add ?debug_mode=true to the Development URL so you can see step‑by‑step workflow execution. Example: https://yourapp.com/version-test?debug_mode=true
• Invite testers. Send them the version‑test link. They won’t affect your Live database.
• Test user flows. Ask testers to complete real actions: signup/login, creating things, running backend workflows, checking conditional visibility, etc.
• Watch logs. Use Logs → Server Logs to see backend workflow runs, API calls, and errors generated by testers.
• Check privacy rules. Switch to Data → App Data and confirm testers only created or saw the data they were supposed to under your Privacy rules.
• Fix issues and retest. Iterate until flows work without debug errors.

Useful Debug Tip

// Add this to any Development URL for testing workflows
?debug_mode=true

Following this process gives you safe, structured, repeatable user testing without risking your live data.