What is Volume Testing How to Perform & Best Practices

What is Volume Testing | How to Perform & Best Practices

Defect Tracking in Software Testing What it is and Why

Defect Tracking in Software Testing: What it is and Why?

Test coverage metrics ensure that every part of the software is tested, ensuring reliability and quality. These metrics also help identify areas that need more attention and improve software performance and user experience.



In this blog, we will discuss test coverage metrics from different perspectives.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#Test_Coverage_Metrics_in_Software_Testing">1 Test Coverage Metrics in Software Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Test_Coverage_Metrics_in_Agile_Testing_Approach">2 Test Coverage Metrics in Agile Testing Approach</a></li><li><a href="#Test_Coverage_Metrics_from_a_Practical_Perspective">3 Test Coverage Metrics from a Practical Perspective</a></li><li><a href="#Continuous_Improvement_Through_Test_Metrics">4 Continuous Improvement Through Test Metrics</a></li><li><a href="#Summary">5 Summary</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">6 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_are_the_three_metrics_in_testing">6.1 What are the three metrics in testing?</a></li><li><a href="#What_are_the_most_essential_test_metrics">6.2 What are the most essential test metrics?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-test-coverage-metrics-in-software-testing">Test Coverage Metrics in Software Testing</h2>



1. Functional Coverage:



Functional coverage measures the extent to which all functional requirements of a software application have been tested. It ensures that all features and functionalities specified in the requirements are tested. This metric helps identify gaps or missing functionalities that must be addressed before releasing the software.&nbsp;



For example,



Software application: Online banking website



To ensure functional coverage of an online banking website, the following features and functionalities should be tested:



<ul><li>Login and logout: Users should be able to log in and out of their accounts using their username and password.</li><li>Account management: Users should be able to view their account balances, transaction history, and other account information. They should also be able to update their personal information and security settings.</li><li>Funds transfer: Users should be able to transfer money between their accounts and to other accounts within the same bank or at other banks.</li><li>Bill pay: Users should be able to schedule and pay bills electronically.</li><li>Check deposit: Users can deposit checks remotely using their smartphone or computer.</li><li>Customer support: Users should have access to customer support through various channels, such as phone, email, and live chat.</li></ul>



2. Product Coverage:



Product coverage focuses on testing different aspects of the software product. It includes various dimensions such as user interfaces, hardware configurations, operating systems, browsers, and databases. By covering different combinations of these dimensions, testers can ensure the software works across various environments.&nbsp;



For example,



Software application: Web application



Product coverage dimensions:



<ul><li>User interfaces: Desktop and mobile versions</li><li>Operating systems: Windows, Mac, and Linux</li><li>Browsers: Chrome, Safari, and Firefox</li><li>Databases: MySQL and PostgreSQL</li></ul>



By executing test cases covering the above dimensions, testers can ensure that the web application works on many devices, operating systems, browsers, and database connections.



3. Test Execution Coverage:



<a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-execution/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test execution</a> coverage is an essential aspect of software testing. It examines different combinations of user interfaces, hardware configurations, operating systems, browsers, and databases. By conducting tests across various environments, testers can identify potential issues or bugs.&nbsp;



Later, they can ensure that the software functions for all users. This whole approach to testing helps enhance the software&#8217;s quality and reliability.&nbsp;



By executing all test cases on all supported environments, testers can be confident that the mobile app will work for all users.



4. Requirements Coverage:



By thoroughly testing the software in different scenarios and environments, testers can ensure that all the required functionalities and features work as intended, providing a seamless user experience.&nbsp;



For example,



Here is how testers can ensure requirements coverage for an online banking website:



Requirement: Users must be able to transfer money between their accounts.



<ul><li>Users must be able to view their account balance and transaction history.</li><li>Users must be able to pay bills online.</li><li>Users must be able to deposit checks online.</li><li>Users must be able to set up recurring transfers and payments.</li><li>Users must be able to receive alerts for account activity.</li><li>Users must be able to dispute charges.</li><li>Users must be able to contact customer support for assistance.</li></ul>



Testers should execute test cases that cover all of the requirements(functional and non-functional.) for the online banking website, such as performance, security, and usability.&nbsp;



This will ensure sufficient requirement coverage for the online banking website.



5. Risk coverage:&nbsp;



By conducting thorough testing, testers can identify and mitigate potential risks associated with this software. This includes identifying vulnerabilities, security loopholes, and potential system failures that could threaten the software&#8217;s performance and user data.&nbsp;



By addressing these risks, testers can enhance their software&#8217;s reliability and security, ensuring a safe and trustworthy user experience.&nbsp;



For example,



Software application: Online banking website



Risks:



<ul><li>Security vulnerabilities</li><li>Fraudulent transactions</li><li>System outages</li></ul>



By executing <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/what-is-test-case/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test cases</a> related to these risks, testers can ensure risk coverage.



<h2 id="h-test-coverage-metrics-in-agile-testing-approach"><a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-coverage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test Coverage</a> Metrics in Agile Testing Approach</h2>



In Agile testing, measuring how thorough the testing process has been for every iteration is essential. By using test coverage metrics in Agile, teams can ensure that all of the code and functionality are tested and that the software is ready for release for every iteration/sprint.



<h2 id="h-test-coverage-metrics-from-a-practical-perspective">Test Coverage Metrics from a Practical Perspective</h2>



So far, we have seen how vital these metrics are in testing. They enable testers to evaluate the effectiveness of test cases by determining the extent to which the application&#8217;s code or functionality has been tested. By providing insights into the thoroughness and completeness of testing efforts, these metrics are invaluable for making informed decisions.&nbsp;



They help identify areas that require additional testing, reduce the risk of undetected defects, and prioritize testing by focusing on critical areas with low test coverage.&nbsp;



Tracking these metrics over time enables teams to monitor progress and ensure enough coverage is achieved before software release. These metrics serve as a guidepost for evaluating the quality of software testing processes and instilling confidence in the software product.



<h2 id="h-continuous-improvement-through-test-metrics">Continuous Improvement Through Test Metrics</h2>



Improving software development and test metrics is essential. Test metrics provide helpful feedback and insight into the quality of software products, allowing teams to identify areas that need improvement.&nbsp;



By measuring and analyzing test metrics, teams can get a clear picture of the effectiveness of their testing efforts. They can also identify trends and make data-driven decisions to improve the quality of their products.&nbsp;



Test metrics include data points such as test coverage, defect density, and test execution time. By analyzing these metrics, teams can identify areas of the applications more prone to defects and find ways to increase testing efforts.&nbsp;



Continuous improvement through test metrics helps teams simplify training processes, optimize resources, and deliver higher-quality software products to customers.&nbsp;



 <button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Automate your test cases for web, mobile, desktops, and APIs to improve your test coverage with Testsigma.</a></button> 



<h2 id="h-summary">Summary</h2>



To ensure software quality, use test coverage metrics to identify areas that need more testing and establish achievable objectives. Continuously monitor and adjust these metrics to meet rigorous standards for dependability.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-questions">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



<h3 id="h-what-are-the-three-metrics-in-testing">What are the three metrics in testing?</h3>



There are three categories of metrics used for software testing:



1. Process Metrics: These are quantitative measures used to assess the efficiency of a process based on factors such as speed, time, and resource utilization. Managers can analyze these metrics and establish new guidelines for the given phase.



2. Product Metrics: These measures evaluate the quality, size, performance, and efficiency of the tested product.



3. Project Metrics: Metrics used to assess the quality and productivity of the project, as well as the utilization of resources, cost, and time, fall under project metrics.



<h3 id="h-what-are-the-most-essential-test-metrics">What are the most essential test metrics?</h3>



Test metrics are essential for evaluating software testing. By monitoring metrics like test coverage, defect density, and execution time, teams can identify areas for improvement and maintain high quality.&nbsp;



However, not all metrics are equally important, so choosing the right ones is crucial for informed decision-making and better testing.

Test Coverage Metrics - A Complete Overview

Test Coverage Metrics – A Complete Overview

Internationalization testing, a crucial aspect of software testing, is a critical stage in software development that guarantees an application or website can run properly across multiple language and cultural situations.&nbsp;



Understanding what internationalization testing in software testing and how to do it is critical in an increasingly linked world where digital goods have a worldwide reach. Beyond language translation, this testing procedure dives into numerous areas of user experience, such as date formats, currency symbols, and text encoding. This enables a smooth and culturally sensitive interaction for users globally.&nbsp;



In this post, we will look at the importance of internationalization testing in software testing as well as recommended practices and approaches.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_Internationalization_Testing">1 What is Internationalization Testing?</a></li><li><a href="#nbspWhy_do_we_do_the_internationalization_testing">2 &nbsp;Why do we do the internationalization testing?</a></li><li><a href="#nbspInternationalization_Testing_Scenario_Example">3 &nbsp;Internationalization Testing Scenario Example</a></li><li><a href="#Internationalization_Testing_Scope_for_Test_Automation">4 Internationalization Testing: Scope for Test Automation</a></li><li><a href="#nbspChallenges_of_Internationalization_Testing">5 &nbsp;Challenges of Internationalization Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Best_Practices_for_Internationalization_Testing">6 Best Practices for Internationalization Testing</a></li><li><a href="#Internationalization_Testing_Checklists">7 Internationalization Testing Checklists:</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">8 Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">9 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_are_the_major_activities_in_internationalization_testingnbsp">9.1 What are the major activities in internationalization testing?&nbsp;</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-internationalization-testing">What is Internationalization Testing?</h2>



Internationalization Testing, also known as &#8220;I18n Testing,&#8221; is an important stage in software development that focuses on ensuring that an application or software product is designed and developed in such a way that it can function effectively and seamlessly across diverse international markets and cultural contexts.&nbsp;



This sort of testing seeks to make software adaptive and accommodating to different languages, geographies, and cultural preferences without modifying the code. It goes beyond simple text translation to ensure that the program appropriately handles changes in date formats, currency symbols, character encodings, and other locale-specific features.&nbsp;



Internationalization Testing essentially provides the groundwork for localization, allowing the program to be readily adjusted for certain areas and languages in the future.



<h2 id="h-why-do-we-do-the-internationalization-testing">&nbsp;Why do we do the internationalization testing?</h2>



Commencing with internationalization testing is imperative as it ensures that a software application transcends linguistic and cultural boundaries, ensuring accessibility and user-friendliness for a global audience.&nbsp;



This meticulous testing process allows organizations to proactively detect and rectify potential issues related to language support, date and time formats, currency handling, and other locale-specific elements.&nbsp;



This proactive approach not only enhances the user experience but also streamlines the subsequent localization efforts, conserving valuable resources and expanding the software&#8217;s reach to a more diverse user base.



<h2 id="h-internationalization-testing-scenario-example">&nbsp;Internationalization Testing Scenario Example</h2>



Imagine a scenario where a multinational e-commerce platform wants to expand its services into diverse international markets. In the process of internationalization testing, they discover that their software supports only English language and US date formats. Through <a href="https://www.google.com/intl/en_in/search/howsearchworks/how-search-works/rigorous-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rigorous testing</a>, they identify and rectify issues, ensuring that the platform seamlessly adapts to various languages, currencies, date formats, and cultural nuances. As a result, users from different regions can now browse and make purchases comfortably, increasing the platform&#8217;s global appeal and revenue potential.



<h2 id="h-internationalization-testing-scope-for-test-automation">Internationalization Testing: Scope for Test Automation</h2>



Because of its vast scope&nbsp;incorporating different languages, cultures, and regions, internationalization testing gives an ideal opportunity for test automation. The substantial test cases necessary to check <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/globalization-testing-vs-localization-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">internationalization capabilities</a> such as language support, date and time formats, currency management, and character encoding across several locales may be handled quickly using test automation tools.&nbsp;



Automation not only speeds up testing, but it also provides consistency and accuracy in determining how effectively software adapts to various global situations. However, it is critical to find a balance by combining automated and manual testing to account for subjective factors such as cultural sensitivity and provide full internationalization testing.



<h2 id="h-challenges-of-internationalization-testing">&nbsp;Challenges of Internationalization Testing</h2>



Challenges in Internationalization Testing include:



<ul><li>Multilingual Content Handling: Testing with multiple languages can be complex, as different languages have varying text lengths, character sets, and writing directions. Ensuring proper rendering and functionality across languages is a significant challenge.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Locale-Specific Formats: Handling date, time, and numeric formats specific to each locale can be challenging. Testers need to verify that the application displays these formats correctly based on the user&#8217;s location.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Cultural Sensitivity: It is crucial to ensure that the application is culturally sensitive and does not unintentionally offend or misrepresent cultural norms in different regions. This requires thorough testing of content and imagery.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Right-to-Left (RTL) Languages: RTL languages like Arabic and Hebrew pose unique challenges in terms of layout and alignment. Testing to ensure correct text display and UI alignment is essential.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Content Expansion: When transitioning from a single language to multiple languages, text expansion or contraction can affect the layout. Ensuring that the user interface remains visually appealing and functional can be a significant challenge, particularly for responsive designs.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-best-practices-for-internationalization-testing">Best Practices for Internationalization Testing</h2>



Here are some best practices for Internationalization Testing:



<ul><li>Early Planning: Start internationalization testing as early as possible in the development process to address issues before they become entrenched in the codebase.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Locale Coverage: Test across a wide range of locales to ensure comprehensive coverage. Focus on high-priority markets and regions where your software will be used most.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Content Separation: Keep content separate from code by using resource files or content management systems. This makes it easier to swap out content for different languages and locales.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Unicode Support: Ensure full Unicode support in your application to handle characters from various scripts and languages.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Date and Time Handling: Test how your application handles date and time formats, including time zones, and ensure consistency across locales.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Currency and Numeric Formats: Verify that the software correctly displays currency symbols, decimal separators, and thousands separators according to each locale&#8217;s conventions.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Right-to-Left (RTL) Languages: Test for RTL languages by checking text alignment, layout, and UI elements to ensure proper rendering.</li></ul>



<ul><li><a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/localization-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Localization Testing:</a> After internationalization testing, conduct localization testing to validate translations, cultural sensitivity, and usability in specific regions.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-internationalization-testing-checklists">Internationalization Testing Checklists:</h2>



Here is an internationalization testing checklist:



<ol><li>Language Support:</li></ol>



<ul><li>Confirm support for multiple languages and scripts.</li><li>Verify that text is displayed accurately without truncation or overlapping.</li></ul>



<ol start="2"><li>Date and Time Handling:</li></ol>



<ul><li>Check date and time formats for different locales.</li><li>Validate correct time zone adjustments.</li></ul>



<ol start="3"><li>Currency and Numeric Formats:</li></ol>



<ul><li>Ensure proper display of currency symbols, decimal points, and thousands of separators.</li><li>Verify alignment of numeric values.</li></ul>



<ol start="4"><li>Character Encoding:</li></ol>



<ul><li>Test for handling diverse character encodings, especially in input fields and data storage.</li></ul>



<ol start="5"><li>Layout and UI Consistency:</li></ol>



<ul><li>Confirm consistent layout and user interface elements across languages and locales.</li><li>Check for any text expansion/contraction issues.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-conclusion">Conclusion</h2>



In conclusion, internationalization testing plays a pivotal role in the global software landscape by ensuring that applications and websites can seamlessly adapt to diverse languages, cultures, and regions. By rigorously assessing language support, date and time formats, currency handling, character encoding, and cultural sensitivity, organizations can not only expand their reach to a worldwide audience but also enhance user satisfaction and comply with regional regulations. Embracing the best practices and checklists outlined in this process empowers software developers to create products that are truly inclusive, respectful of cultural nuances, and capable of thriving in an increasingly interconnected global marketplace.



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 margin: auto;"><a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Automate your test for web, mobile, desktop and APIs, 10x faster, with Testsigma</a></button> 



<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-questions">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



<h3 id="h-what-are-the-major-activities-in-internationalization-testing">What are the major activities in internationalization testing?&nbsp;</h3>



Major activities during Internationalization testing include:&nbsp;



<ul><li>Testing for supported languages in display</li><li>Testing for date and time handling for different locales</li><li>Testing for currency and numeric formats for different regions</li><li>Testing for handling of diverse character encodings in input fields and data storge</li><li>Testing for layout and UI consistency in all supported languages and locales</li></ul>

Internationalization Testing What it is & how to perform

Internationalization Testing | What it is & how to perform?

Modern software includes a large amount of software components, and it makes the software system complex. As the system gets complicated, it is difficult to understand the product over a period of time, and it introduces a lot of risks. Software Architecture streamlines the process by arranging all components in way that they are easy to understand and execute.



Unlike development, the software testing teams might lack test architects, which will result in poor test planning, design, and strategies. Furthermore, it can increase the chances of the system failing when it is released.&nbsp;



The software testing industry is learning from its mistakes and slowly the testing team has started to appoint software test architects to design powerful test architecture in terms of security, performance, functionality usage, etc.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_Test_Architecture">1 What is Test Architecture?</a></li><li><a href="#What_does_Test_Architecture_take">2 What does Test Architecture take?</a></li><li><a href="#History_of_Test_Architecture">3 History of Test Architecture</a></li><li><a href="#Why_create_test_architecturenbsp">4 Why create test architecture?&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_the_role_of_the_test_architect">5 What is the role of the test architect?</a></li><li><a href="#Test_architecture_explained_with_an_example">6 Test architecture explained with an example</a><ul><li><a href="#Test_Pyramid">6.1 Test Pyramid</a></li><li><a href="#Responsibilities">6.2 Responsibilities</a></li><li><a href="#Tools_and_Infrastructure">6.3 Tools and Infrastructure</a></li><li><a href="#Testing_process">6.4 Testing process</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Test_Architecture_and_Test_Automation">7 Test Architecture and Test Automation</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">8 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_the_project_architecture_for_testing">8.1 What is the project architecture for testing?</a></li><li><a href="#nbspIsn8217t_Test_Architecture_similar_to_Test_Planningnbsp">8.2 &nbsp;Isn&#8217;t Test Architecture similar to Test Planning?&nbsp;</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-test-architecture">What is Test Architecture?</h2>



Test architecture is the concrete level of guidelines and recommendations to how and when to test based on the system, complexity, environment, and testing tools focused on the delivery to achieve the best possible outcome.&nbsp;



Test architecture might not be required for all the projects. For example, if a project is very small and doesn’t include many components, you can directly jump into the test strategy document. The small project may last only for a few months, so it makes sense not to have test architecture. However, if you are dealing with a complex project or life-critical project then the test architecture is much required.



<h2 id="h-what-does-test-architecture-take">What does Test Architecture take?</h2>



The test architecture requires in-depth knowledge of your project, domain, organization standards, governance, compliance, technology stacks that the organization is using, and delivery practices followed.



The test architect should have good expertise in testing using both automation and manual. He should clearly understand the requirements and roadmaps. The test architecture should be designed for the future so he should make valid assumptions and risks before the start. Depending on the project the test architecture may be a one-time activity or it may evolve as the project evolves, so the architecture should be flexible and robust.



<h2 id="h-history-of-test-architecture">History of Test Architecture</h2>



The concept of testing was introduced soon after the first software was evolved. It takes back to 1950 when Tom Kilburn wrote the first piece of software. Around 1958 the first team was formed specifically for testing. Thereafter the software testing started evolving it took various directions to streamline the process.&nbsp;



From 1980 to 2000 a lot of evolution happened. It took testing to a new level. During this era, the testing practices and approaches were defined, and new tools arrived specifically for testing purposes.&nbsp; A separate branch was started and called Software Quality Engineering. Later the test architecture, test strategy, and test plan recommendations started to evolve.&nbsp;



Today, Most companies have a dedicated Quality assurance team which will contain test architects, manual testers, and automation testers. Organizations have learned the importance of testing so significant investment is made in software testing resources, tools, and infrastructure.



<h2 id="h-why-create-test-architecture">Why create test architecture?&nbsp;</h2>



The test architecture is important, especially when you are dealing with a complex project or expecting the project to grow in the near future. The test architecture helps to reduce the risks and eliminate the assumptions before delivery.&nbsp;



As you are aware, anything you do randomly may not help in a better outcome. The test architecture streamlines the entire process of testing. Unlike other testing activities, it&#8217;s not focused on a single testing activity rather it is focused on the entire testing and the testing team aims to deliver a high-quality product. Some of the reasons why test architecture is important are listed below.



<ul><li>Helps streamline the testing process</li><li>Helps to reduce the risks associated with delivery</li><li>It helps to define the testing ecosystem, such as the testing environment, infrastructure tools for test automation, manual testing, and anything that is part of the system.</li><li>Helps in documenting the gaps in testing and aligning accordingly</li><li>Brings the testing team, testing process, and tools under a single umbrella, irrespective of manual, automation, or <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/non-functional-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">non-functional testing</a>.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-what-is-the-role-of-the-test-architect">What is the role of the test architect?</h2>



The test architect&#8217;s role is as important as development. As companies start adopting automation into their organization, the test architect role becomes more critical. Having said that, not everyone can become a test architect as it requires passion to explore and a deep level of understanding in testing and product; some roles may also demand knowledge of DevOps.



&nbsp;Let’s look at the test architect role at a glanceo



<ul><li>One should have the passion to explore the current technologies in testing and should explore the possibilities of adopting them to the current project</li><li>He/She should be senior enough to make the right decisions with a deep-level understanding of organizational practices and strategies.</li><li>One should understand the product and work with the product managers and stakeholders.</li><li>The architect will be the key person in the testing team; he should guide and mentor the team by defining the strategy, clear goals, and milestones.</li><li>Architects should build, monitor, and adapt the new technologies throughout the product life cycle</li><li>Identify the testing gaps and provide a timely plan to fill them</li><li>He should also concentrate on the documentation</li><li>Though the role doesn’t involve people management, he should ensure the team members are updated with all technical aspects and understand the process correctly</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-test-architecture-explained-with-an-example">Test architecture explained with an example</h2>



The test architecture differs from project to project. The test architecture depends on a lot of factors as explained above. Let’s look at the example of test architecture at a glance.



Consider an example of any simple product. Let&#8217;s look at the general way of test architecture.



<h3 id="h-test-pyramid">Test Pyramid</h3>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/k7EMIwS8rcVpRVEK8hKG_Rj9VMZ_8VpPF9XkSS7shVM8AegnGBvnVJgI4KI1U9bhOy9w-T2WxqbZS4sLUpUIWFws2wAnMbUkz50HkWQRJ92oygDO5t4KPSSPIAfhaNBSZtKZm2pjSUY_mNS_l2C3hQ" alt="Test Pyramid"/></figure></div>



The <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/testing-pyramid/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test pyramid</a> design is the first step while building the test architecture. The test pyramid is about different types of tests, such as unit tests, API and Integration tests, and end-to-end tests, and their percentage. Additionally, you can also add manual tests or acceptance tests into the test pyramid.



<h3 id="h-responsibilities">Responsibilities</h3>



Once you choose the testing types that you are going to adopt for the project, you need to decide who is responsible for what, for example, developers need to write the unit tests, and the QA team is responsible for the end-to-end tests, etc.



<h3 id="h-tools-and-infrastructure">Tools and Infrastructure</h3>



The test architecture should clearly define the tools that they are going to use. For example for automation tests, the tool will be Testsigma; for manual test repository it will be in the Testlink, etc. Further you need to decide on the DevOps integration, execution frequency, etc.



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<h3 id="h-testing-process">Testing process</h3>



The testing process defines when testing is carried out on different environments such as QA, Staging, Production, etc. Additionally, you can also define when the automation scripting will be done &#8211; is it the same sprint or n-1 sprint?



The above are initial tasks, once you complete the initial tasks, the test architecture should further move on to in-depth. 



The in-depth scenarios are listed below:



<ul><li>Define a clear roadmap for automation, manual testing, and non-functional testing</li><li>Design the robust automation framework</li><li>Write the automation test cases</li><li>Document the manual test cases</li><li>Define the standards for automation</li><li>Set the target for automation</li><li>Define the non-functional testing requirement (NFR)</li><li>Choose the tools and environment for NFR</li><li>Define test strategy document</li><li>Define the test plan</li></ul>



As mentioned earlier, there may be additional activities based on the project and product complexity. Remember that anything which is part of testing is also part of test architecture.



<h2 id="h-test-architecture-and-test-automation">Test Architecture and Test Automation</h2>



The test architect role has gained importance because of automation. Automation is the key area in modern testing. The test architecture of automation depends on the framework type you choose.&nbsp;



<ul><li>Evaluate the requirements against the automation tools, and choose the best tool for the project.</li><li>Create the automation framework based on the industry standard principles and practices.</li></ul>



The framework can be keyword-driven, page object model, hybrid, modular framework, or codeless automation framework



<ul><li>Document the checklist and standards that are necessary to maintain while writing the codes.</li><li>Define the automation execution strategy.</li></ul>



The automation execution strategy is the broader term, it includes a lot of activities such as:



<ul><li>Browser types and browser versions</li><li>Platform or operating system and its version</li><li>Frequency of Sanity, Smoke, and regression tests</li><li>Suite level execution</li><li>Executing different types of tests such as Integration, API, and End to end tests</li><li>Integration with DevOps such as Continuous Integration(CI)/Continuous Delivery (CD) pipelines </li><li>Test reporting and analysis</li></ul>



Based on the scheduled frequency, the reports will be generated. &#8211; If you find the test case failure, how to analyze and who will do that? &#8211; Before logging the failure as a defect, what are the necessary steps required? &#8211; When and what to share with the stakeholders



<ul><li>Documentation</li></ul>



Documentation is much more important but most of the team lacks. The automation test architecture document should be accurate and simple. For example, if a new joiner comes into your team, he should be able to set up and follow the process without asking anyone. The documentation reduces the knowledge transfer efforts, and it makes onboarding quicker.



<ul><li>Manual vs Automation</li></ul>



The target for automation is set at the beginning however, it is also a known fact that 100% automation is impossible. How to deal with non-automated test cases. How <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/manual-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">manual testing </a>is carried out etc. should be defined in the test architecture.



<ul><li>Communication</li></ul>



The test architect works with multiple teams such as development, DevOps, testing, and business/product team. So the test architect is responsible for communication with stakeholders. If there are any challenges from the development team he should be able to work with them and get them resolved.



The complexity of the test architecture for automation depends on the tool you choose. Because some tools require creating the framework, some come with a framework ready. Not all the tools require coding, so the activities that are involved in defining the coding standards and setup will be reduced. For example, if you choose selenium you need to build the framework from scratch. You need to put a lot of effort into setting up the framework such as building the POM model, writing the base class utilities, configuring the reports, etc. On the other hand, if you choose the <a href="https://testsigma.com/codeless-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">codeless automation framework</a> like Testsigma everything comes as ready to use. No need to write a single line of code. Reporting will be ready, environment configuration also will be ready, no need to write the coding and checklists.



Test architecture is a broader term that includes a lot of activity. The test architecture takes care of the whole testing activity from start to end. This includes designing, implementing, documenting learning, etc.&nbsp;



Test architecture is required to deliver the quality product on time, especially if it is a complex project. Not anyone can become a test architect as it requires passion to learn and adopt the technologies every day. Furthermore, it is a technical role that requires in-depth technical knowledge of the product, infrastructure, testing tools, and testing process.&nbsp;&nbsp;



As the demand for automation is increasing the demand for test architects is also increasing. The complexity of the automation test architecture depends on the automation tools you choose. The codeless automation tool requires less effort to design and maintain.&nbsp;



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<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-questions">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



<h3 id="h-what-is-the-project-architecture-for-testing">What is the project architecture for testing?</h3>



Test architecture is the standard term used in the testing industry. The project architecture for testing is the same as test architecture; these words can be used interchangeably.



<h3 id="h-isn-t-test-architecture-similar-to-test-planning">&nbsp;Isn&#8217;t Test Architecture similar to Test Planning?&nbsp;</h3>



The test planning and test architecture are not the same. Test planning is part of the test architecture. It focuses more on the planning by focusing on a certain set of activities however, the test architecture focuses on the entire testing life cycle irrespective of the testing types.&nbsp;



Unlike test planning, the test architecture can be one time, or it might evolve as the project evolves. The <a href="https://www.javatpoint.com/test-plan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test planning</a> doesn’t require many technical details however, test architecture requires hands-on experience in different testing areas.

Test Architecture Creating an Architecture for Automated Tests

Test Architecture: Creating an Architecture for Automated Tests

Cookie Testing What it is, Why & How to Test

Cookie Testing: What it is, Why & How to Test?

Agile Testing Quadrants are a practical tool for sorting testing types into four categories. They help testers decide what to test and how to do it, considering exhaustive testing is impossible.



These quadrants are adaptable, letting you choose the right testing approach for each unique situation. In this article, we&#8217;ll break down Agile Testing Quadrants and show you how to use them with real-world examples. It&#8217;s your guide to effective testing strategies.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#The_origins_of_the_8216Marick_Test_Matrix8217">1 The origins of the &#8216;Marick Test Matrix&#8217;</a></li><li><a href="#What_are_the_Agile_Testing_Quadrants">2 What are the Agile Testing Quadrants?</a><ul><li><a href="#Quadrant_1_Technology_Facing">2.1 Quadrant 1: Technology Facing</a></li><li><a href="#Quadrant_2_Business_Facing">2.2 Quadrant 2: Business Facing</a></li><li><a href="#Quadrant_3_Supporting_the_Team">2.3 Quadrant 3: Supporting the Team</a></li><li><a href="#Quadrant_4_Critique_Product">2.4 Quadrant 4: Critique Product</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#How_to_Use_the_Agile_Testing_Quadrants">3 How to Use the Agile Testing Quadrants?</a><ul><li><a href="#Example_1nbsp">3.1 Example 1:&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="#Example_2nbsp">3.2 Example 2:&nbsp;</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Benefits_of_Using_Agile_Testing_Quadrants_Model">4 Benefits of Using Agile Testing Quadrants Model</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">5 Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">6 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_are_the_4_C8217s_of_agile">6.1 What are the 4 C&#8217;s of agile?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-the-origins-of-the-marick-test-matrix">The origins of the &#8216;Marick Test Matrix&#8217;</h2>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0VaBLDwUfm-uZpNDAxulv7z-aXu-3lhfXkwZLQVMcKmJ1xhrzvzeWLxe3lii28bYK3FK_3CaIgJUDoTpBek8ktavW-QDYw41OgOI84c3ljoOdoOaNFsaH2ND2tvZF2n2-2vn4RmWbzHLVA8adDOOLhY" alt="Agile testing quadrants"/></figure></div>



In 2003, software consultant Brian Marick made a significant contribution to<a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/understanding-agile-testing-framework/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Agile Testing</a>. In response to feedback that he wasn&#8217;t doing enough to foster Agile testing as a well-defined discipline, he embarked on a mission to rectify this. His initial step was the creation of Agile Testing Quadrants, initially referred to as the &#8216;Marick Test Matrix&#8217;. This matrix consists of a straightforward grid.



Within this grid, Marick proposed specific positions for various testing types in each of the four quadrants. He delved into the rationale behind these placements, setting the foundation for a more comprehensive understanding of Agile testing.



<h2 id="h-what-are-the-agile-testing-quadrants">What are the Agile Testing Quadrants?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="2400" height="1960" src="https://testsigma.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/67997939.png" alt="Agile Testing Quadrants" class="wp-image-35333"/></figure>



The Agile Testing Quadrants, an evolution of Brian Marick&#8217;s Agile Testing Matrix, serve as a compass for tailoring your testing approach based on the specific business context. There are four quadrants, each emphasizing a different aspect:



<h3 id="h-quadrant-1-technology-facing">Quadrant 1: Technology Facing</h3>



This quadrant is all about supporting the team from a technological angle. It centers on testing the code through unit tests and component tests.



<h3 id="h-quadrant-2-business-facing">Quadrant 2: Business Facing</h3>



In Quadrant 2, the focus shifts to supporting the team from a business perspective. Testing activities revolve around business rules, employing <a href="https://www.javatpoint.com/functional-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">functional tests</a>, examples, story tests, prototypes, and simulations.



<h3 id="h-quadrant-3-supporting-the-team">Quadrant 3: Supporting the Team</h3>



Quadrant 3 introduces techniques that assist the team in critiquing the product by approaching it from a business perspective. It includes exploratory testing, scenarios, usability testing, user acceptance testing, and alpha and beta testing.



<h3 id="h-quadrant-4-critique-product">Quadrant 4: Critique Product</h3>



The fourth quadrant dives deep into scrutinizing the product from a technological perspective. It recommends using performance testing, load testing, security testing, and various &#8220;ility&#8221; testing types such as accessibility, reliability, and portability.



These quadrants guide your testing approach and indicate whether the techniques are more suitable for manual testing, automated testing, or a combination of both. They provide a versatile toolkit for addressing different testing needs within an Agile framework.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-how-to-use-the-agile-testing-quadrants">How to Use the Agile Testing Quadrants?</h2>



Agile Testing Quadrants offer a structured approach to tailor your testing strategy based on your project&#8217;s context. Let&#8217;s delve into an example to illustrate their application.



<h3 id="h-example-1">Example 1:&nbsp;</h3>



Imagine you&#8217;re working on a <a href="https://testsigma.com/automated-web-application-testing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">web-application</a> e-commerce platform. You realize that in your current context, you need to ensure the user interface (UI) functions flawlessly across various devices and browsers. To do this, you turn to Quadrant 4, which focuses on critiquing the product from a technological perspective. Here, you opt for automated UI testing using a tool like Testsigma. By doing so, you efficiently assess the application&#8217;s compatibility, ensuring it performs seamlessly on all target environments. This automation saves time and ensures consistent testing across different scenarios.



Automate your tests for web, mobile, desktop and execute them on 3000+ real devices and browsers, easily, with Testsigma



<h3 id="h-example-2">Example 2:&nbsp;</h3>



Now, consider a scenario where you need to validate the critical business logic governing product discounts and promotions. In this case, you shift your focus to Quadrant 2, which centers on business-facing tests. Here, you might employ tests to verify that the business rules are correctly applied. This automation guarantees that your application adheres to the core business requirements, reducing the risk of costly errors in the live system.



In both instances, the Agile Testing Quadrants help you select the most appropriate testing approach for your specific needs, whether it&#8217;s ensuring technological robustness or validating critical business functionality, while tools like Testsigma enhance efficiency through test automation.



<h2 id="h-benefits-of-using-agile-testing-quadrants-model">Benefits of Using Agile Testing Quadrants Model</h2>



Focused Testing: Agile Testing Quadrants provide a structured framework to categorize testing types, ensuring that your testing efforts align with your project&#8217;s specific needs. This focus leads to more efficient testing.



Improved Communication: These quadrants serve as a common language for project teams, making discussing and prioritizing testing activities easier. This enhanced communication fosters collaboration and understanding.



Tailored Approach: The model promotes a tailored testing approach by guiding you to choose the right quadrant based on your context. You&#8217;re not confined to one set of techniques but can select the most appropriate ones for your project.



Enhanced Test Coverage: The quadrants help identify gaps in your testing strategy. This ensures that business and technological aspects are thoroughly addressed, reducing the risk of overlooking critical areas.



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<h2 id="h-conclusion">Conclusion</h2>



In conclusion, Agile Testing Quadrants offer a valuable toolset for agile teams to strategize and execute testing effectively. By categorizing testing types and guiding their application based on context, these quadrants enhance focus, communication, and test coverage, ultimately contributing to the success of agile projects.



<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-questions">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



<h3 id="h-what-are-the-4-c-s-of-agile">What are the 4 C&#8217;s of agile?</h3>



The 4 C&#8217;s of agile are Collaboration, Communication, Confidence, and Courage. These principles emphasize the importance of teamwork, open and effective communication, trust in the team&#8217;s abilities, and the willingness to take risks and adapt in agile development processes. These C&#8217;s are foundational in creating a successful agile environment.

Agile Testing Quadrants | Concept & How to Use it

Unlocking Efficiency with Assertion Testing in Test Automation

Assertion Testing – What it is and How to Perform?

To deliver software products that meet high standards of quality and reliability, software testing and quality assurance are being used as integral components of the software development process. Often, people interchange their names for the same meaning, but they both have some differences too. 



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#Software_Testing_VS_Quality_Assurance_8211_Overview">1 Software Testing VS Quality Assurance &#8211; Overview</a></li><li><a href="#Differences_Between_Software_Testing_and_Quality_Assurance">2 Differences Between Software Testing and Quality Assurance</a></li><li><a href="#Advantages_of_Software_Testing_and_Quality_Assurance">3 Advantages of Software Testing and Quality Assurance</a></li><li><a href="#Limitations_of_Software_Testing_and_Quality_Assurance">4 Limitations of Software Testing and Quality Assurance</a></li><li><a href="#Testing_VS_Quality_Assurance_8211_How_can_Testing_Help_Make_Your_Product_Better">5 Testing VS Quality Assurance &#8211; How can Testing Help Make Your Product Better?</a></li><li><a href="#Summary">6 Summary</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">7 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#Is_SQA_and_software_testing_same">7.1 Is SQA and software testing same?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="software-testing-vs-quality-assurance-overview">Software Testing VS Quality Assurance &#8211; Overview</h2>



Software testing involves the systematic process of evaluating a software application to identify defects or inconsistencies, ensuring that it functions as intended and meets user requirements. Testers meticulously design test cases, execute them, and report any discovered defects, ultimately striving to enhance the software&#8217;s robustness. 



Quality assurance, on the other hand, is a comprehensive approach that goes beyond testing. It encompasses the establishment of quality standards, process improvement initiatives, and adherence to best practices throughout the development lifecycle. Quality assurance aims to prevent defects from occurring in the first place, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and ensuring that software development processes are efficient, effective, and aligned with organizational goals. Together, software testing and quality assurance foster confidence in software products, promoting customer satisfaction and long-term success in the ever-evolving world of technology.



<h2 id="h-differences-between-software-testing-and-quality-assurance">Differences Between Software Testing and Quality Assurance</h2>



They both play critical roles in ensuring the delivery of high-quality software, but they have different objectives, focuses, and methods. Here are the key differences between <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">software testing</a> and <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/quality-assurance/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quality assurance</a>:



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Criteria</td><td>Software Testing</td><td>Quality Assurance</td></tr><tr><td>Objective</td><td>The primary objective of software testing is to identify defects or bugs in the software. Testing is a dynamic process where testers actively execute the software to find issues such as functionality errors, performance problems, security vulnerabilities, and usability issues</td><td>Quality assurance is a broader process that focuses on ensuring that the entire software development process is carried out correctly. It aims to prevent defects from occurring in the first place by implementing best practices, processes, and standards</td></tr><tr><td>Timing</td><td>Testing is typically carried out after the software has been developed. It is a validation process that confirms whether the software meets the specified requirements.</td><td>Quality assurance starts at the beginning of the software development process and continues throughout the entire lifecycle. It encompasses activities like process audits, standards enforcement, and training to improve the development process itself.</td></tr><tr><td>Responsibility</td><td>Testers are responsible for conducting testing activities. They execute test cases, report defects, and ensure that the software functions as expected.</td><td>Quality assurance is the responsibility of the entire development team and often involves quality assurance professionals, process experts, and project managers. It requires a collaborative effort to improve processes and maintain quality standards.</td></tr><tr><td>Deliverables</td><td>The primary deliverables of testing are test plans, test cases, test reports, and defect logs. These artifacts provide information about the software&#8217;s quality and reliability.</td><td>Quality assurance delivers process documentation, standards, guidelines, and process improvement recommendations. It ensures that the development process itself is robust and efficient.</td></tr><tr><td>Long-term vs. Short-term</td><td>Testing is more focused on short-term goals, such as identifying and fixing defects in the current software release.</td><td>Quality assurance has a long-term focus, aiming to improve processes and prevent defects in future software projects.</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2 id="h-advantages-of-software-testing-and-quality-assurance">Advantages of Software Testing and Quality Assurance</h2>



Software testing and quality assurance offer numerous advantages throughout the software development lifecycle. Here are some key benefits of these processes:



Advantages of Software Testing:



<ul><li>Bugs Detection: Testing helps identify and rectify defects and bugs in the software, ensuring that it functions correctly and meets user expectations.</li><li>Improved Reliability: Thorough testing enhances the reliability and stability of the software, reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures and crashes.</li><li>Enhanced Security: Security testing helps identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the software, allowing for timely security fixes to protect against threats and data breaches.</li><li>Better User Experience: Testing ensures that the software is user-friendly, intuitive, and provides a positive user experience, which is essential for customer satisfaction.</li><li>Performance Optimization: Performance testing identifies bottlenecks and performance issues, enabling optimization for faster response times and resource efficiency.</li><li>Cost Savings: Detecting and fixing defects early in the development process is more cost-effective than addressing issues in production, where the cost and impact of defects are much higher.</li><li>Compliance: Testing helps ensure that the software complies with industry-specific regulations, standards, and legal requirements.</li></ul>



Advantages of Quality Assurance:



<ul><li>Process Improvement: Quality assurance focuses on optimizing development processes, leading to more efficient and effective workflows, reducing waste, and improving productivity.</li><li>Consistency: QA practices promote consistency in software development, ensuring that all team members adhere to best practices and standards.</li><li>Prevention of Defects: By implementing quality assurance measures, organizations can proactively prevent defects and errors from occurring, reducing the need for extensive testing and rework.</li><li>Risk Mitigation: QA identifies risks and issues early, allowing for proactive risk mitigation strategies to be implemented.</li><li>Customer Satisfaction: High-quality products delivered through quality assurance lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.</li><li>Competitive Advantage: Organizations that prioritize quality assurance often gain a competitive advantage by delivering more reliable and superior software products.</li><li>Resource Efficiency: QA helps allocate resources more efficiently by focusing on areas that can deliver the most significant quality improvements.</li><li>Data-Driven Decision Making: QA relies on data and metrics to make informed decisions about process improvements, allowing for continuous optimization.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-limitations-of-software-testing-and-quality-assurance">Limitations of Software Testing and Quality Assurance</h2>



While software testing and quality assurance are essential processes in the software development lifecycle, they have their limitations and challenges. Here are some of the key limitations of software testing and quality assurance:



<ul><li>Incomplete Test Coverage: Testing may not cover every possible scenario, leading to the possibility of undiscovered defects. Achieving 100% test coverage is often impractical or impossible.</li><li>Time and Resource Constraints: Limited time and resources can restrict the depth and breadth of testing. Comprehensive testing may be time-consuming and costly, leading to compromises in test coverage.</li><li>False Sense of Security: Successful testing does not guarantee a defect-free software product. It can provide a false sense of security, leading to the release of software with hidden defects.</li><li>Changing Requirements: As requirements evolve during the development process, it can be challenging to keep test cases and quality assurance measures aligned with the changing specifications.</li><li>Human Error: Testers and quality assurance professionals can make mistakes, leading to missed defects or incorrect assessments of software quality.</li><li>Subjectivity: Quality assurance measures may involve subjective judgments, and what is considered &#8220;high quality&#8221; can vary from person to person.</li><li>Lack of Complete Security: While security testing can identify vulnerabilities, it cannot guarantee that the software is entirely secure. New security threats may emerge after testing is completed.</li><li>Complex Interactions: In complex software systems, interactions between different components can be difficult to predict and test comprehensively, leading to unexpected issues.</li><li>Limited Real-World Scenarios: Testing environments may not accurately replicate real-world usage conditions, leading to the possibility of defects emerging in production.</li><li>Maintenance Overhead: Maintaining <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Test_case" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test cases</a> and quality assurance processes can be resource-intensive, particularly as software evolves and new features are added.</li><li>Cost-Effectiveness: Achieving a high level of software quality through extensive testing and quality assurance measures can be costly, and organizations must strike a balance between quality and budget constraints.</li><li>Ethical Considerations: Some testing and quality assurance activities, such as security testing or performance testing under heavy load, may involve ethical dilemmas or legal considerations.</li><li>Diminished Returns: There comes a point of diminishing returns in testing, where the effort required to find and fix the remaining defects becomes disproportionately high.</li></ul>



<h2 id="testing-vs-quality-assurance-how-can-testing-help-make-your-product-better">Testing VS Quality Assurance &#8211; How can Testing Help Make Your Product Better?</h2>



Testing is a vital part of making sure a product works well. It helps ensure the product meets what it’s supposed to do and that there aren’t any problems before you use it. Testing can also give developers feedback on how people interact with the product, so they can make changes to make it better for you.



Testing is essential to ensure the product you’re working on will be great. It checks for all the possible outcomes of what you’re making and helps ensure it’s going to work how it’s supposed to. Testing should start immediately when you first think of an idea to determine if it’s feasible in the first place, what assumptions need to be made, and how best to test it. Without testing, there would be no way of knowing if your product works properly. The more testing you do early in the process, the more likely your product will be successful and make customers happy!



Finally, testing ensures the product is safe and secure, protecting users and developers from potential risks. Doing tests before releasing a product helps businesses ensure their products are of good quality and provide a good user experience.



<h2 id="h-summary">Summary</h2>



In summary, software testing and quality assurance (QA) are two interconnected but distinct processes in the software development lifecycle: While Software Testing is a process that involves the systematic evaluation of a software application to identify and rectify defects or issues, Quality Assurance is a broader approach that encompasses the entire software development process. Together, these processes help ensure the delivery of high-quality software products that meet user expectations and industry standards.



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<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-questions">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



<h3 id="h-is-sqa-and-software-testing-same">Is SQA and software testing same?</h3>



No, <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/software-quality-assurance-plan/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Software Quality Assurance</a> (SQA) and software testing are not the same, although they are related concepts within the field of software development.



SQA is a broader and more encompassing concept that involves ensuring the quality of the entire software development process.&nbsp;



Software testing, on the other hand, is a specific subset of SQA. It is the process of systematically evaluating a software application to identify and rectify defects or issues in the software.

Difference Between software testing and quality assurance

Difference Between Software Testing and Quality Assurance

Testing software is essential, and one of the key things we need to think about is test completion. That means ensuring we&#8217;ve run all the tests we need and analyzed the results. But test completion isn&#8217;t just about ticking off a list of tests and logging any issues we find. It involves many activities to ensure the software is well-tested and meets high-quality standards.&nbsp;



In this blog post, we&#8217;ll look at what test completion means and everything we need to do to ensure we&#8217;re doing it right.



Before we begin, here&#8217;s something to humor you:&nbsp;



&#8220;What do you call a software tester who&#8217;s always late?



&nbsp;A Regression tester.&#8221;



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="368" height="411" src="https://testsigma.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/image-147.png" alt="Test Completion" class="wp-image-34812" /></figure></div>



 <div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_Test_Completion">1 What is Test Completion?</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_the_purpose_of_Test_Completion">1.1 What is the purpose of Test Completion?</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#What_are_the_Test_Completion_Work_Products">2 What are the Test Completion Work Products?</a></li><li><a href="#When_do_Test_Completion_Activities_Occur">3 When do Test Completion Activities Occur?</a></li><li><a href="#Major_Activities_of_Test_Completion">4 Major Activities of Test Completion</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_the_Test_Completion_Criterion">5 What is the Test Completion Criterion?</a><ul><li><a href="#Test_Completion_Criteria_8211_Examples">5.1 Test Completion Criteria &#8211; Examples:</a></li><li><a href="#Test_Completion_Criteria_for_Test_Levels">5.2 Test Completion Criteria for Test Levels</a></li><li><a href="#Test_Completion_Criteria_8211_Significance">5.3 Test Completion Criteria &#8211; Significance:</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#What_is_the_test_completion_report_in_software_testing">6 What is the test completion report in software testing?</a><ul><li><a href="#Test_Completion_Report_Format">6.1 Test Completion Report Format:</a></li><li><a href="#Significance_of_Test_Completion_Report">6.2 Significance of Test Completion Report:</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">7 Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">8 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_risks_do_you_see_in_test_completion">8.1 What risks do you see in test completion?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-test-completion">What is Test Completion?</h2>



Test completion is the last step in the software testing life cycle, where we finalize all testing activities and document the results. Our main goal is to ensure the software product is ready for production release.&nbsp;



The activities involved in test completion can vary depending on the project but typically include the following:&nbsp;



<ul><li>Verifying that all test cases have been executed&nbsp;</li><li>Analyzing the test results and identifying any defects</li><li>Prioritizing and fixing defects&nbsp;</li><li>Generating a test completion report&nbsp;</li><li>Communicating the test results to stakeholders&nbsp;</li></ul>



The test completion report is a document that summarizes the results of the testing activities.&nbsp;



<h3 id="h-what-is-the-purpose-of-test-completion">What is the purpose of Test Completion?</h3>



A clear sense of purpose is essential to success in any endeavor. When it comes to testing a software product, we must ensure we&#8217;ve done everything possible to ensure it&#8217;s ready for release. That&#8217;s where test completion criteria come in &#8211; the specific conditions we need to meet before stopping testing.&nbsp;



Things like&nbsp;



<ul><li>how many test cases we&#8217;ve run,&nbsp;</li><li>how much of the code we&#8217;ve covered,&nbsp;</li><li>how many bugs we&#8217;ve found and fixed, and&nbsp;</li><li>how risky the product is in determining when we&#8217;re done testing.&nbsp;</li></ul>



It&#8217;s essential to have these measures defined in the test plan and agreed upon by everyone involved so that we&#8217;re all on the same page and can work efficiently.



<h2 id="h-what-are-the-test-completion-work-products">What are the Test Completion Work Products?</h2>



The work products of the test completion phase are the following:



<ul><li><a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-summary-report/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Test summary report</a>: This report summarizes the testing efforts carried out during the testing process. It provides information on the amount of testing that was done, the defects that were found, and the risks that were identified. The test summary report is an essential input for stakeholders who need to make decisions about the software, such as whether to release it to production.</li><li>Defer requests or product backlog objects: If defects cannot be fixed in the current release, they are added to the product backlog as change requests. In some cases, the requirements may not specify defects or functionalities. These are also added to the product backlog as change requests.</li><li>Action items for progress: The test completion phase is also an opportunity to identify lessons learned and recommend modification. These action items should be documented and implemented in future projects.</li><li>Completed testware: All relevant test work products and documents, such as test cases, test results, and test plans, are completed and archived in this phase. This ensures that the test results are preserved and can be used for future reference.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-when-do-test-completion-activities-occur">When do Test Completion Activities Occur?</h2>



A few times during a project, we celebrate our progress and completion. These moments <a href="https://www.teamly.com/blog/project-milestones-examples/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">are called project milestones</a>, and they&#8217;re a chance for us to cheer each other on and take a breather before diving into the next phase.



Below are some instances when test completion activities occur:



<ul><li>When a software system is all ready to go live&nbsp;</li><li>When we finish up a testing project (or decide to take a break)&nbsp;</li><li>When we complete a round of an Agile project&nbsp;</li><li>When we finish up a whole level of testing&nbsp;</li><li>When we&#8217;ve assembled a maintenance release. Woohoo!</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-major-activities-of-test-completion">Major Activities of Test Completion</h2>



Completing a test is a fun and exciting process that involves several essential activities!&nbsp;



First, we ensure all the reported defects have been addressed and closed. If there are any open defects, we create change requests or product backlog items to ensure they are handled. We also close out any incident reports and document our acceptance of the system.&nbsp;



Next, we create a test summary report that gives a broad overview of all the testing we completed and the results we found. We share this report with our stakeholders so they can see all our hard work! Before we wrap things up, we finalize and archive all our test materials to be used again. We also transfer any relevant information to maintenance teams or other stakeholders who may find it useful.&nbsp;



Finally, we take the time to analyze what we learned during the testing process so we can improve and grow in the future. We want to ensure we&#8217;re constantly enhancing and improving what we do!



Here are some&nbsp;examples for the significant test activities completion:



<ul><li>Checking whether all defect reports are closed.</li><li>Entering change requests or product backlog items for any defects that remain open.</li><li>Closing incident reports.</li><li>Documenting the system&#8217;s acceptance.</li><li>Finalizing and archiving the test environment, the test data, the test infrastructure, and other testware for later reuse.</li><li>Handing over the testware to the maintenance teams, other project teams, or other stakeholders who could benefit from its use.</li><li>Checking which planned deliverables have been delivered.</li><li>Analyzing lessons learned from the completed test activities to determine changes needed for future iterations, releases, and projects.</li><li>Using the information gathered to improve test process maturity.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-what-is-the-test-completion-criterion">What is the Test Completion Criterion?</h2>



To determine when a software product is ready for release, Test Completion Criteria (TCC) must be met. These conditions should be clearly defined in the test plan and agreed upon by all stakeholders. This ensures a consistent and efficient testing process.&nbsp;



TCC can be determined based on factors such as&nbsp;



<ol><li>the number of executed test cases,&nbsp;</li><li>code coverage percentage,&nbsp;</li><li>fixed defects, and&nbsp;</li><li>software product risk level.&nbsp;</li></ol>



TCC must be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. This ensures clarity and objective evaluation.



<h3 id="h-test-completion-criteria-examples">Test Completion Criteria &#8211; Examples:</h3>



For example, TCC might include&nbsp;



<ul><li>executing all test cases,&nbsp;</li><li>achieving 80% code coverage,&nbsp;</li><li>fixing all critical defects, or&nbsp;</li><li>reducing software product risk to an acceptable level.&nbsp;</li></ul>



TCC should be reviewed and updated throughout testing to remain relevant and achievable.



<h3 id="h-test-completion-criteria-for-test-levels">Test Completion Criteria for Test Levels</h3>



Here are the completion criteria for different levels:&nbsp;



<ul><li>Unit testing:<ol><li>All unit test cases have been executed and passed.</li><li>The code coverage has met the defined requirements.</li><li>All critical defects have been found and fixed.</li></ol></li><li>Integration testing:<ol><li>All integration <a href="https://www.javatpoint.com/test-case" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test cases </a>have been executed and passed.</li><li>The interfaces between components are working as expected.</li><li>All critical defects have been found and fixed.</li></ol></li><li>System testing:<ol><li>All system test cases have been executed and passed.</li><li>The system meets all of the requirements.</li><li>All critical defects have been found and fixed.</li></ol></li><li>User acceptance testing:<ol><li>All user acceptance test cases have been executed and passed.</li><li>The system meets the needs of the users.</li><li>All critical defects have been found and fixed.</li></ol></li><li>Acceptance testing:<ol><li>The customer has accepted the system.</li><li>The system is ready to be released to production.</li></ol></li></ul>



These are just some examples of test completion criteria for different test levels. The specific criteria will vary depending on the particular project and the risks associated with the software product.



It is important to note that test completion criteria should be defined in the test plan and agreed upon by all stakeholders. This helps to confirm everyone is on the same page and that the testing process is completed consistently and efficiently.



<h3 id="h-test-completion-criteria-significance">Test Completion Criteria &#8211; Significance:</h3>



Here are some of the benefits of having clear TCC:



<ul><li>It helps to ensure that the testing process is complete and thorough.</li><li>It helps to avoid scope creep, where the testing process continues indefinitely.</li><li>It helps to manage the risks associated with software testing.</li><li>It helps ensure the software product is released on time and within budget.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-what-is-the-test-completion-report-in-software-testing">What is the test completion report in software testing?</h2>



The test completion report in software testing is a thorough document summarizing the testing process and providing an overview of the test results. It is a formal record of the testing activities conducted during a specific testing phase or project.



The test completion report aims to communicate the testing effort&#8217;s status, effectiveness, and quality to project managers, developers, and clients. It includes detailed information about the tests executed, their outcomes, any issues encountered, and recommendations for further actions.



Various automation testing tools available in the market, such as Testsigma, can significantly expedite this process. Utilizing such tools can result in a 5X increase in efficiency, thereby enhancing the overall productivity of your work.



 <button class="btn bg-primary cta-btn" style="margin: auto"><a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color:#fff">Automate and execute your tests to completion with Testsigma</a></button> 



<h3 id="h-test-completion-report-format">Test Completion <a href="https://testsigma.com/reports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Report </a>Format:</h3>



Generally, a complete report has the following format.



<ul><li>Test Name: Specify the name of the test that was conducted.</li><li>Test Objective: Clearly state the objective or purpose of the test.</li><li>Test Date: Mention the date when the test was conducted.</li><li>Test Environment: Describe the environment in which the test was performed, including hardware, software, and network configurations.</li><li>Test Scope: Define the scope of the test, indicating what functionalities or areas were covered during testing.</li><li>Test Duration: Specify how long it took to complete the testing process.</li><li>Test Team: List all team members involved in conducting the test, including their roles and responsibilities.</li><li>Test Cases Executed: Provide a summary of all test cases executed during testing, including successful and failed ones.</li><li>Defects Identified: Enumerate all defects or issues discovered during testing, along with their severity levels and descriptions.</li><li>Defect Resolution Status: Indicate whether each identified defect has been resolved or is still pending resolution.</li><li>Test Results Summary: These components are essential for tracking the progress and outcomes of the testing process, ensuring that all issues are addressed and resolved effectively.</li></ul>



This image shows the Test Completion Report and how to export it in <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-closure-report/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Testsigma</a>.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img loading="lazy" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/yhUQZRdqsoBlFdTiNRDoQBFdQDhWIrxbsMGsTK63KcEKKYYOdHqAXo7X9DjZ3YlQoWjbVSaaewqu88Qxvy7IfkQI1WqR1SMGgc4ZqhLvsUVg4cmyLaVb-h7oxjyB6QjDILPrLHBUtvxRulFidl4KDqU" alt="Test Case Results" width="800" height="450" /></figure></div>



 <h3 id="h-significance-of-test-completion-report">Significance of Test Completion Report:</h3>



The Test Completion Report is very important as it summarizes the testing process and its results. It proves the testing activities, such as the executed test cases, identified defects, and their solutions. This report helps stakeholders evaluate the quality and dependability of the software being tested, aiding them in making informed decisions about its release or further enhancements. Furthermore, it guides future testing cycles, allowing teams to learn from past experiences and strengthen their testing approaches for better outcomes.



<h2 id="h-conclusion">Conclusion</h2>



In a nutshell, Test completion is when all the tests are done and the results are noted down. So, if you ever hear someone talking about Test completion, now you know precisely what they&#8217;re talking about!&nbsp;



Have fun with your testing!



<h2 id="h-frequently-asked-questions">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>



<h3 id="h-what-risks-do-you-see-in-test-completion">What risks do you see in test completion?</h3>



One risk in test completion is overlooking critical defects or issues that could impact the product&#8217;s functionality. Another risk is the potential for inadequate test coverage, leading to gaps in testing and potential vulnerabilities being missed.

What is Test Completion and Test Completion Activity