What is the software testing life cycle?

The software testing life cycle (STLC) is a systematic approach that outlines the phases and activities involved in testing a software application. It provides a structured framework for planning, designing, executing, and evaluating the testing process. The software testing life cycle typically consists of the following phases:

Requirement Analysis: In this phase, the testing team analyzes the software requirements, specifications, and other relevant documentation to understand the testing objectives, scope, and constraints. Testable requirements are identified, and test planning activities begin.

Test Planning: The test planning phase involves developing a detailed test plan that outlines the testing approach, test objectives, test scope, test strategies, test environments, resource allocation, and schedules. Test deliverables, entry criteria, and exit criteria are defined. The test plan serves as a roadmap for the entire testing effort.

Test Design: In this phase, test cases and test scenarios are designed based on the requirements and the test objectives defined in the test plan. Test data and test environments are prepared, and test case traceability matrices are created to ensure that all requirements are covered by test cases. Test design techniques such as equivalence partitioning, boundary value analysis, and decision table testing may be used.

Test Environment Setup: The test environment setup involves preparing the required hardware, software, and network configurations to create a stable and representative environment for testing. It includes installing the application under test, configuring test databases, networks, and other necessary components.

Test Execution: In this phase, the actual testing is performed according to the test plan and test cases. Testers execute the prepared test cases, record the test results, and compare the actual results with the expected results. Defects or issues are logged in a defect tracking system, and test data and environment configurations are managed.

Defect Tracking and Management: Defects identified during test execution are logged, tracked, and managed in a defect tracking system. Each defect is assigned a severity and priority, and it undergoes triage and resolution processes. Defects are retested after fixes to verify their resolution.

Test Reporting and Closure: Test reporting involves documenting and communicating the test progress, test results, defect metrics, and other relevant information to stakeholders. Test summary reports, defect reports, and test closure reports are prepared. The testing team evaluates the testing process and identifies areas for improvement. Test closure activities, including documentation, archiving of test assets, and knowledge transfer, take place.

It's important to note that the software testing life cycle can be adapted and customized based on the project's needs, development methodologies (such as Agile or Waterfall), and specific testing requirements. The STLC helps ensure that testing activities are well-structured, organized, and aligned with the software development process, ultimately aiming to deliver a high-quality software product.

Copy Rights Digi Sphere Hub