Sandbox testing and deployment checklist

Sandbox Testing and Deployment Checklist

Before any platform goes live with automated reward issuance, it needs to verify its API integration in a safe environment. Sandbox testing allows developers to simulate reward flows without triggering real transactions. Hubble provides a structured test setup so that teams can check their requests, responses, authentication, and error handling before launching in production.

What the Sandbox Environment Is For

The sandbox is a controlled space that mirrors the live API but uses mock data. This helps developers test endpoint behaviour without affecting real users or budgets. Every call in this environment follows the same rules as production, which helps teams confirm their integration logic.

• Simulates real reward issuance
• Returns realistic response formats
• Allows testing of error flows
• Supports debugging without financial impact

This ensures the platform is ready for predictable behaviour once it moves to live mode.

Key Steps for Sandbox Testing

Developers should follow a consistent sequence while testing the Rewards API. This helps make sure no part of the integration is missed.

1. Set up authentication

• Generate your API key
• Store it securely
• Attach it to every sandbox request

2. Test reward creation endpoints

• Send sample payloads for issuing rewards
• Verify the response codes
• Check the reward details in mock delivery logs

3. Validate error handling

• Trigger incorrect payloads
• Remove authentication header intentionally
• Test invalid parameters
• Review error messages and fix issues

4. Confirm webhook behaviour

• Set up your callback URL
• Trigger events that produce webhook notifications
• Check if the callback receives the event
• Store and log webhook data correctly

5. Monitor request logs

• Review all request attempts
• Ensure each call follows the expected structure
• Compare logs with your internal workflow

Each of these checks helps prevent issues when the integration shifts to production.

Deployment Checklist Before Going Live

Once the sandbox behaviour is confirmed, the integration can move to the live environment. A structured checklist ensures the transition is smooth and reliable.

• Replace the sandbox key with the production API key
• Switch all endpoint URLs from sandbox to live
• Verify that environment variables are correctly configured
• Test a small number of live transactions
• Set up monitoring for real time logs
• Enable webhook listeners for production events

Following these steps helps avoid last minute issues.

Why Sandbox Testing Is Essential

Reward delivery involves financial value and user trust. Testing the integration in the sandbox allows teams to fix errors early, confirm behaviour, and maintain a polished user experience once rewards go live.

Developers can review sandbox related notes and available endpoints on the Hubble Rewards API reference page for easier implementation.

With a clear sandbox testing process and a tidy deployment checklist, businesses can confidently automate their reward journeys using the API.