Extensive Testing in Software Testing

In the dynamic landscape of software development, ensuring the quality of a product is paramount. Whether it&#8217;s a mobile application, a web platform, or enterprise software, quality assurance (QA) stands as the bedrock of user satisfaction and trust. Within the realm of QA, independent testing teams play a crucial role, offering a fresh perspective and an unbiased evaluation of the software&#8217;s performance, functionality, and usability. In this blog, we delve into why independent testing team is required in the software development lifecycle. The important question is to what extent being independent is acceptable? And what are the dangers of being independent and not embedded in an engineering team?



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#Suppliers_Vs_In-House_Team">1 Suppliers Vs In-House Team</a></li><li><a href="#How_Independent_can_one_be">2 How Independent can one be?</a></li><li><a href="#Independent_Test_Teams_and_Advantagesnbsp">3 Independent Test Teams and Advantages&nbsp;</a><ul><li><a href="#Ensuring_Objectivity_and_Impartiality">3.1 Ensuring Objectivity and Impartiality</a></li><li><a href="#Comprehensive_Test_Coverage">3.2 Comprehensive Test Coverage</a></li><li><a href="#Mitigating_Conflict_of_Interest">3.3 Mitigating Conflict of Interest</a></li><li><a href="#Specialized_Expertise">3.4 Specialized Expertise</a></li><li><a href="#Scalability_and_Flexibility">3.5 Scalability and Flexibility</a></li><li><a href="#Cost-effectiveness">3.6 Cost-effectiveness</a></li><li><a href="#Enhanced_Customer_Satisfaction">3.7 Enhanced Customer Satisfaction</a></li><li><a href="#Regulatory_Compliance_and_Risk_Mitigation">3.8 Regulatory Compliance and Risk Mitigation</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">4 Conclusion</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-suppliers-vs-in-house-team">Suppliers Vs In-House Team</h2>



I have worked in many companies till now where I have engaged a lot with supplier testing teams as well as teams that are in-house only. The important aspect to understand here is how independent should they be?&nbsp;



Let&#8217;s have a look at the differences between them. When you have in-house testing teams what I have noticed is that there are many times where collaboration is missing with other engineers, knowledge silos and teams not understanding the value of testers has been seen quite a lot.&nbsp;



When it comes to supplier testers and being independent, it can be a bit daunting too as they are new to the team, we have to make sure they are on boarded and expect them to work independently, however this has caused quite a lot of delays and issues such as IT requests needed to be made for them and the entire time waiting on tools to be set up, onboarding that was done may be something that suppliers start forgetting or missing vital points and delaying the overall project tasks.&nbsp;



Check here &#8211; <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/independent-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Independent Testing</a>



I am not saying suppliers are not well equipped but as a company or team we should make sure they are settled well before we can make them independent.&nbsp;



In my opinion, its best to have one engineering team with all our testers in that team to help showcase the value we bring, the information we share and the excellent testing we do. It is easier to collaborate and even pair up with other engineers as well as other stakeholders.&nbsp;



<div class="cta-banner-v2">
<div class="title-with-description ">
Automate Your End-to-End UI Tests for Web, Mobile, Desktop Applications and APIs, while enabling collaboration with all the stakeholders for the project, with Testsigma
</div>
<a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" class="cta-btn-v1" rel="noopener">Try for free</a>
</div>



<h2 id="h-how-independent-can-one-be">How Independent can one be?</h2>



We all know that there are many companies still keeping their <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/anatomy-of-a-high-performing-software-testing-team/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">testing teams</a> as independent, but we need to understand how independent they can be. I personally feel and have seen that it is good to always have someone communication between developers and testers so that vital details can be shared.&nbsp;



Independent testing teams can get on themselves but we should not forget them in important meetings. The testers can also struggle by having the same old <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/automated-test-suite/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test suite</a> and no new tests or edge cases checked if no one is updating the details to them.&nbsp;



Therefore, if you are working with independent testers, it is a good practise to keep them in loop too so that important factors get counted in and testers still showcase their value.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-independent-test-teams-and-advantages">Independent Test Teams and Advantages&nbsp;</h2>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img loading="lazy" width="512" height="389" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/blog-assets-production.testsigma.com/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/26172014/Why-Independent-Testing-Team-is-Required.png" alt="Why Independent Testing Team is Required" class="wp-image-50374"/></figure></div>



<h3 id="h-ensuring-objectivity-and-impartiality">Ensuring Objectivity and Impartiality</h3>



One of the primary advantages of independent testing teams is their objectivity. Unlike developers or in-house QA teams who may be closely involved in the project, independent testers bring an outsider&#8217;s perspective. They approach the software without preconceived notions or biases, evaluating it solely based on predefined criteria and industry standards. This objectivity helps uncover defects and usability issues that may have been overlooked by those deeply involved in the development process.



Check here &#8211; <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/usability-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Usability Testing</a>



<h3 id="h-comprehensive-test-coverage">Comprehensive Test Coverage</h3>



Independent testing teams are equipped to provide comprehensive <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-coverage/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">test coverage</a> across various dimensions of software quality. From functional testing to performance, security, compatibility, and usability testing, they employ diverse methodologies and testing techniques to ensure that the software meets all requirements and specifications. By conducting thorough assessments, independent testers help mitigate risks and enhance the overall reliability of the software.



<h3 id="h-mitigating-conflict-of-interest">Mitigating Conflict of Interest</h3>



In-house development teams often face conflicting priorities between meeting project deadlines and maintaining quality standards. This conflict of interest can compromise the thoroughness of testing and lead to the release of software with unresolved issues.&nbsp;



Independent testing teams, on the other hand, operate with a singular focus on quality. Their independence from development pressures enables them to prioritize rigorous testing without being influenced by project timelines or resource constraints.



<h3 id="h-specialized-expertise">Specialized Expertise</h3>



Independent testing teams bring specialized expertise and domain knowledge to the table. With experience across a wide range of industries and technologies, they possess insights into best practices, regulatory requirements, and emerging <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/top-software-testing-trends-to-look-out-for-in-2022/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trends in software testing</a>.&nbsp;



The specialized expertise allows them to tailor testing strategies to the unique needs of each project, leveraging industry-specific standards and frameworks to deliver optimal results.&nbsp;



Whether it&#8217;s healthcare, finance, e-commerce, or any other sector, independent testers adapt their approach to ensure compliance and mitigate sector-specific risks.



<h3 id="h-scalability-and-flexibility">Scalability and Flexibility</h3>



Independent testing teams offer scalability and flexibility that may not be feasible with in-house resources alone. As project requirements evolve or deadlines approach, these teams can quickly scale up or down to accommodate changing needs.&nbsp;



Whether it&#8217;s ramping up testing efforts during peak development phases or providing <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/adhoc-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ad-hoc testing</a> support for ongoing maintenance, independent testers offer the agility required to keep pace with the dynamic nature of software development projects.



<h3 id="h-cost-effectiveness">Cost-effectiveness</h3>



While some may perceive independent testing as an additional expense, it often proves to be cost-effective in the long run. By identifying and addressing defects early in the development cycle, independent testers help prevent costly rework and post-release issues. Moreover, outsourcing testing to specialized teams eliminates the need for investing in infrastructure, tools, and ongoing training, resulting in significant cost savings for organizations. When weighed against the potential losses due to software failures or customer dissatisfaction, the investment in <a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/independent-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">independent testing </a>proves to be a prudent choice.



<h3 id="h-enhanced-customer-satisfaction">Enhanced Customer Satisfaction</h3>



At the end of the day, the ultimate goal of software development is to deliver value to the end-users. Independent testing plays a crucial role in achieving this goal by ensuring that the software meets or exceeds user expectations.&nbsp;



By uncovering bugs, <a href="https://www.nomensa.com/blog/10-common-usability-problems-with-websites/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">usability issues</a>, and performance bottlenecks, independent testers contribute to a smoother user experience and higher customer satisfaction. This, in turn, fosters loyalty and positive word-of-mouth, driving user adoption and market success for the software product.



<h3 id="h-regulatory-compliance-and-risk-mitigation">Regulatory Compliance and Risk Mitigation</h3>



In many industries, regulatory compliance is non-negotiable. Independent testing teams help organizations navigate complex regulatory landscapes by ensuring that the software adheres to industry standards and legal requirements. Whether it’s data privacy regulations like GDPR, security standards like ISO 27001, or industry-specific mandates such as <a href="https://www.scrut.io/solutions/hipaa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HIPAA compliance</a> in healthcare, independent testers verify that the software meets all relevant compliance criteria. By mitigating legal and regulatory risks, independent testing provides organizations with peace of mind and protects their reputation in the market.



<div class="cta-banner-v2">
<div class="title-with-description ">
Automate Your End-to-End UI Tests for Web, Mobile, Desktop Applications and APIs, while enabling collaboration with all the stakeholders for the project, with Testsigma
</div>
<a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" class="cta-btn-v1" rel="noopener">Try for free</a>
</div>



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



In conclusion, independent testing teams play a pivotal role in the software development lifecycle, offering objectivity, comprehensive test coverage, specialized expertise, scalability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory compliance.&nbsp;



By partnering with independent testers, organizations can enhance the quality, reliability, and usability of their software products, driving customer satisfaction and mitigating risks.&nbsp;

Why Independent Testing Team is Required ?

In any real-life activity, the events leading up to an event determine the outcome. A test case is like a recipe &#8211; it needs the right ingredients and steps to produce the desired outcome. Preconditions are those required ingredients.&nbsp;



They outline the specific conditions that must be met before you run the test. Think of them as setting the stage for your test. Ensuring these preconditions are in place guarantees a reliable and meaningful test run.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_preconditioning_in_testing">1 What is preconditioning in testing?</a></li><li><a href="#How_do_you_write_preconditions_in_test_cases">2 How do you write preconditions in test cases?</a></li><li><a href="#What_are_the_preconditions_that_are_essential_for_successful_test_execution">3 What are the preconditions that are essential for successful test execution?</a></li><li><a href="#How_to_Use_Preconditions_in_Test_Cases">4 How to Use Preconditions in Test Cases?</a></li><li><a href="#Analyzing_the_Results_of_a_Test_Case_Using_Preconditions">5 Analyzing the Results of a Test Case Using Preconditions</a></li><li><a href="#Conclusion">6 Conclusion</a></li><li><a href="#Frequently_Asked_Questions">7 Frequently Asked Questions</a><ul><li><a href="#What_is_8220Post-condition8221_in_a_test_case">7.1 What is &#8220;Post-condition&#8221; in a test case?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_the_difference_between_precondition_and_postcondition_in_a_test_case">7.2 What is the difference between precondition and postcondition in a test case?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-preconditioning-in-testing">What is preconditioning in testing?</h2>



Preconditions are the conditions that must be fulfilled to ensure the test runs smoothly and produces reliable and accurate results.&nbsp;



Preconditioning helps set up the test environment, data, and other necessary parameters before running the test. By ensuring that the preconditions are met, testers can minimize the chances of encountering errors and inconsistencies during the test run.&nbsp;



Yet, preconditioning helps to ensure that the testing process is efficient, effective and produces the desired results.



 Here&#8217;s a different real-life example to illustrate preconditions: Imagine you&#8217;re baking a cake. The main activity is mixing the batter and putting it in the oven. Yet, several preconditions need to be met before you can even begin:



<ol><li>You must have all the necessary ingredients, like flour, sugar, and eggs.</li><li>You&#8217;ll need a working oven at the proper temperature.</li><li>You&#8217;ll want a mixing bowl and utensils ready for action.</li></ol>



&nbsp;With these preconditions in place, attempting to bake the cake is possible.



<h2 id="h-how-do-you-write-preconditions-in-test-cases">How do you write preconditions in test cases?</h2>



Here&#8217;s how to incorporate strong preconditions into your test cases:



<ul><li>Identify Requirements:&nbsp; Clearly define the initial state the system needs to be in for the test to run correctly. This might involve data setup, user permissions, or system configurations. </li><li>List Explicit Steps (if necessary):&nbsp; If achieving the preconditions requires specific actions, list them as separate steps within your test case. This enhances clarity and ensures everyone understands the necessary setup process. </li><li>Consider Reusability:&nbsp; If preconditions are common across multiple tests, explore creating separate reusable steps or functions to streamline your test suite and avoid redundancy.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-what-are-the-preconditions-that-are-essential-for-successful-test-execution">What are the preconditions that are essential for successful test execution?</h2>



Guaranteeing successful test execution hinges on establishing strong preconditions. Here are some key elements to consider: 



<ul><li>Proper Environment:&nbsp; Ensure the<a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/test-environment/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> test environment </a>(hardware, software, network) is set up correctly and matches the production environment as closely as possible. </li><li>Data Availability:&nbsp; Verify that all necessary test data in the system is present and accurate, before running the test. This might involve creating specific test accounts or populating databases with relevant information. </li><li>System State:&nbsp; The system under test should be in a specific, well-defined state. This could involve closing open applications, logging out user accounts, or setting specific system configurations. </li><li>Dependencies Met:&nbsp; If the test case relies on the successful execution of other tests, ensure those pre-requisite tests have passed before proceeding.</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-how-to-use-preconditions-in-test-cases">How to Use Preconditions in Test Cases?</h2>



Preconditions are the building blocks of robust test cases. By clearly defining them, you ensure your tests start from a consistent state, leading to more reliable results. Using a real-world example in Testsigma, an <a href="https://testsigma.com/qa-automation-tools" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">automated testing tool</a>, let&#8217;s see how preconditions work.&nbsp;



In Testsigma, you can define this precondition directly within your test case steps.&nbsp;



This is just a sample example



Here&#8217;s how it will look:



Precondition: I take an example to verify that a user is able to login to gmail.&nbsp;



In Testsigma, you can define this precondition as a separate step within your test case. This step might involve navigating to the Gmail login page using a specific URL (e.g., &#8220;https://accounts.google.com&#8221;). Testsigma would then check if the login page elements are present, indicating a successful precondition.



This precondition ensures your test case starts with a clean slate, where the user is demonstrably logged out. If the verification step fails, the precondition isn&#8217;t met, and the test case won&#8217;t proceed.&nbsp;



This safeguards against unreliable test results and ensures your test focuses solely on the login functionality for a specific user.&nbsp;



Only if this precondition is met (i.e., you&#8217;re on the login page) will Testsigma proceed with the actual test steps, which might involve entering your username and password and verifying a successful login. 



This approach ensures your test starts from a known state (logged out) and focuses specifically on the login functionality. In the image below, you can see the preconditions passed. Next, you will find your test cases for the Gmail login page.&nbsp;



Yet, if the precondition fails (perhaps you were already logged in), the entire test case fails, indicating the test couldn&#8217;t be executed under the intended conditions.



Once you&#8217;ve defined the precondition, you can link it to the login test steps. Testsigma will execute the precondition first. If the precondition (logging out) is successful, the test proceeds with the login steps, as shown in the below image.&nbsp;



This approach ensures your login test always starts with a clean slate (logged-out state) and delivers reliable results about the login functionality itself. By effectively using preconditions in Testsigma, you can create robust test cases more likely to catch actual issues.



<div class="cta-banner-v2">
<div class="title-with-description ">
Automate your tests for web, mobile, desktop applications and APIs, 5x faster, with Testsigma
</div>
<a href="https://testsigma.com/signup" target="_blank" class="cta-btn-v1" rel="noopener">Try for free</a>
</div>



This approach ensures your tests are reliable and provide clear insights into the actual login process.



<h2 id="h-analyzing-the-results-of-a-test-case-using-preconditions">Analyzing the Results of a Test Case Using Preconditions</h2>



Preconditions play a vital role in analyzing test case results. Examining the preconditions is a crucial first step if a test case fails.&nbsp;



Did the preconditions ensure the system was in the expected state?&nbsp;&nbsp;



For example, in the previous section, we saw that verifying if the user was indeed logged out beforehand (as per the precondition) is essential if a login test fails.&nbsp;&nbsp;



By analyzing preconditions first, you can isolate issues and determine if the test failure stems from problems with the preconditions or the actual functionality being tested. This focused approach saves time and ensures you&#8217;re addressing the root cause of the failure.



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



In conclusion, preconditions are the cornerstone of effective software testing. They establish a well-defined foundation for test cases, ensuring consistent execution and reliable results. By understanding how to write and utilize preconditions in tools like Testsigma, you can streamline your testing process, improve test maintainability, and ultimately deliver higher-quality software.&nbsp;



Remember, clear preconditions are like a strong foundation for your house &#8211; they pave the way for robust and trustworthy testing practices.



Happy Testing!



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



<h3 id="h-what-is-post-condition-in-a-test-case">What is &#8220;Post-condition&#8221; in a test case?</h3>



In a test case, a post-condition refers to the state or conditions that are expected to be true after the execution of the test scenario. These conditions specify the expected outcomes or changes in the system after the test.



<h3 id="h-what-is-the-difference-between-precondition-and-postcondition-in-a-test-case">What is the difference between precondition and postcondition in a test case?</h3>



Preconditions specify the initial state or conditions required for executing a test, while postconditions define the expected outcomes or states after the test execution. Preconditions ensure proper test setup, while postconditions verify the correctness and effectiveness of the tested functionality.

Precondition in a Test Case | What is it & How do you use it?

<a href="https://testsigma.com/guides/software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Software testing</a> is more than creating tests, reporting bugs, or ensuring that a piece of software meets the specified requirements. It starts with a different mindset — a way of thinking about software in order to anticipate risks, overcome biases, think critically, and dive deeper into the complexities of a software application.&nbsp;



This mindset brings a tester’s focus from technical complexity to overall quality and user satisfaction.



I have worked with inspiring testers from all over the world.&nbsp;



In this article, we will discuss the key aspects of a tester&#8217;s mindset; we will explore the way expert testers think, the reason behind their practices, and the principles they incorporate to ensure that the software is robust, reliable, and ready for the real world.



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#Risk_Investigators">1 Risk Investigators</a></li><li><a href="#Bias_Breakers">2 Bias Breakers</a></li><li><a href="#Critical_Thinkers">3 Critical Thinkers</a></li><li><a href="#Activity_Focused_Over_Artifact_Focused">4 Activity Focused Over Artifact Focused</a></li><li><a href="#Problem_Finders">5 Problem Finders</a></li><li><a href="#Other_Key_Traits_Testers_Mindset">6 Other Key Traits: Tester’s Mindset</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-risk-investigators">Risk Investigators</h2>



One of the fundamental traits of a good tester is the ability to investigate risks. Testers are Risk Investigators.&nbsp;



We believe in the possibility of risks.&nbsp;



Risk is the primary motivation for testing. If there is no risk, there is no need for any kind of testing. Whenever the testers interact with any feature, they ask questions to find potential risks:



<ul><li>&#8220;What could go wrong?&#8221;</li><li>“What specifically may not work?”</li><li>“In what way it might not work?”</li><li>“Is that sort of failure likely?”</li></ul>



This mentality helps testers with test design as well as the sampling tests for execution. While designing tests, the tester asks questions such as:



<ul><li>“Why does this test exist?”</li><li>“Is there an alternative test that covers the product?”</li><li>“What value does the test bring?”</li><li>“Can this test be clubbed with an existing test?”</li></ul>



 Whether a new feature is introduced or there is a subtle change in an existing one, the tester looks for potential risks. They’re realists, as they understand that software development involves various choices and each choice comes with its fair share of risk and potential pitfalls.



<h2 id="h-bias-breakers">Bias Breakers</h2>



Humans are biased.&nbsp;



But, biases aren’t always bad.&nbsp;&nbsp;



The problem begins when we pretend that biases don’t exist. Whether it&#8217;s confirmation bias, where we see only what we expect to see, or positivity bias, where we’re over-motivated by the success stories and fancy claims.&nbsp;



All these mental biases affect our judgment and perception of reality.&nbsp;



Testers, conscious of such biases, actively engage in conscious debiasing and act as bias breakers.



If you are new to the concept of biases, the <a href="https://www.sog.unc.edu/sites/www.sog.unc.edu/files/course_materials/Cognitive%20Biases%20Codex.pdf" rel="nofollow">cognitive bias codex</a> showcases a list of 188 different biases that people face in day-to-day life. <gwmw style="display:none;">



The tech industry is deeply affected by such biases.



To break free from biases, testers use strategies like:



<ul><li>Pair Testing: Two testers work together, questioning each other’s assumptions, and bringing different perspectives to the table.</li><li>De Bono Thinking Hats: Good testers actively engage with developers, product owners, business analysts, or even fresh testers to gain diverse perspectives and opinions. While a developer may find no flaw in a feature, a tester might see potential edge cases where it could break.&nbsp;</li></ul>



This activity increases a tester’s awareness giving him a 360-degree perspective.



<ul><li>Second Order Thinking: This involves moving beyond the immediate problem and considering multiple layers of implications and consequences of a given decision.</li></ul>



Biases can make testing socially challenging.&nbsp;



While everyone else on the team would be cheering for a quick release, the tester would have to work against the biases to explore, experiment, and evaluate any open risks and critical areas.&nbsp;



It’s like fighting an uphill battle. Having an awareness of biases and the strategies to work around them is what sets a good tester apart.



<h2 id="h-critical-thinkers">Critical Thinkers</h2>



A critical skill that defines a tester, critical thinking.&nbsp;



Critical thinking is all about analyzing your thought process and asking probing questions. It’s like a shortcut formula for testing. I use this three-question formula that I learned from James Bach to think critically:



<ul><li>Huh? – Does this make sense?</li><li>Really?? – Is this true?</li><li>So?? – Okay, Maybe it’s true! But, what does this mean in the context of this product?</li></ul>



For example, during a requirement review, a good tester often challenges vague or ambiguous requirements, asking questions like, &#8220;What if the user does something unexpected here?&#8221;&nbsp;



or&nbsp;



during product demos, a tester might question the assumptions behind the design, think about potential failure points, and reconsider the idea that the design even makes sense.



Testers are always on the lookout for uncovered pathways—those unconventional areas where bugs are probably hidden.&nbsp;



They think about failure possibilities, not just the happy paths that a user might take, but the edge cases, the &#8220;what if?&#8221; scenarios that could lead to unexpected results



<h2 id="h-activity-focused-over-artifact-focused">Activity Focused Over Artifact Focused</h2>



Testing is not limited to the end product, but all the activities involved in getting there. In the words of the famous testing expert, Michael Bolton:



While the artifacts can be useful to some degree, the key point of the exercise is the exercise: developing the tester’s mind and mental models. The map is not the territory, and it’s the mapping, not the map, that’s the important bit.



Good testers know that the whole point of testing is a journey, an ongoing process of investigation, exploration, and experimentation. They focus on&nbsp;



<ul><li>Testing Sessions: Engaging in hands-on testing activities where testers interact with the software to uncover issues.</li><li>Investigation: Digging deeper into areas of the software that seem problematic, unclear, risky, uncovered, etc.</li><li>Exploration: Navigating through the software in an unscripted manner, seeking out unknowns, recording observations, making notes, etc.</li><li>Scripting Good Ideas: Writing tests that cover specific scenarios but being aware that the scripts are only as good as the thought process behind them.</li></ul>



By being activity-focused, good testers know that artifacts such as bug reports, test reports, and test scripts are just the by-products of essential testing activities. Artifacts are important, but they should never be the top focus of good testers.&nbsp;



The best testers care more about activities carried out, the insight gained during the journey, the understanding of the product, and the potential issues identified along the way.



<h2 id="h-problem-finders">Problem Finders</h2>



Testers look for problems. They believe in the Veblen’s Principle, i.e.,



There’s no change, no matter how awful, that won’t benefit some people, and no change, no matter how good, that won’t hurt some.



As responsible testers, this means asking questions such as:&nbsp;



<ul><li>What problems could this change create?</li><li>How might customers get unhappy?</li><li>How might we lose business?</li><li>What could go wrong beyond the acceptance criteria?</li></ul>



Testers don’t just analyze the happy path—they’re concerned with what lies beyond it. They understand that problems can arise in unexpected areas.&nbsp;



Testers actively seek out potential pitfalls before these become real issues.



<h2 id="h-other-key-traits-tester-s-mindset">Other Key Traits: Tester’s Mindset</h2>



Apart from core mindsets, these are some qualities that a good tester has:



<ul><li>Honesty: Testers must be honest about the state of the software, even if the truth is difficult to hear. We are hired to present the true state of things.</li><li>Patience: Testing can be a repetitive process, and patience is key to uncovering deeper issues. You will never get good results unless you develop patience in your testing approach.</li><li>Showcasing Your Work: Testers need to effectively communicate their findings, status, risks, issues, etc. in a language that even non-technical stakeholders can understand.&nbsp;</li></ul>



Projecting testing work is difficult as a lot of it comes from tacit knowledge. Your ability to showcase work will set you apart.



<ul><li>Persuasion and Storytelling: A tester must be able to tell the story of a bug, persuading stakeholders of its importance and the potential impact it could have if left unaddressed.</li></ul>



The mindset of a tester is one of curiosity and skepticism. At the same time, it also needs a constant focus on quality. It involves thinking critically, challenging assumptions, and being vigilant for risks and potential issues.&nbsp;



So, the next time you think about a software testing role, remember it’s not just an ordinary tech role — it has a lot to do with the correct mindset, one that requires a blend of skills, traits, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Tester’s Mindset:  Thinking Beyond the Code

Postman vs ReadyAPI – Which is Better?

LambdaTest vs Katalon – Which is Better?

Robot Framework vs Pytest | Which One Should I Choose?

Leapwork vs Tosca – What are the Differences?

Cypress vs React Testing Library – Which is Better?

The Role of AI in DevOps [Tester’s Edition]

As with any form of creation, manufacturing, and development, it is better to identify problems sooner rather than later. Regarding software development and testing, this is exceptionally true.&nbsp;



When it comes to pushing high-quality software, defect prevention is integral. Catching bugs and anomalies early makes it much easier to resolve them, as opposed to dealing with their effects once they have been enmeshed into the system.&nbsp;



In this piece, we’ll dive into the definition, necessity, and principles of defect prevention.&nbsp; We’ll also discuss techniques to perform defect prevention and the integral role of automation in this layer of quality assurance.&nbsp;



<div id="toc_container" class="no_bullets">Table Of Contents<ul class="toc_list"><li><a href="#What_is_Defect_Prevention">1 What is Defect Prevention?</a></li><li><a href="#Advantages_of_Early_Defect_Detection">2 Advantages of Early Defect Detection</a></li><li><a href="#Principles_of_Defect_Preventionnbsp">3 Principles of Defect Prevention&nbsp;</a><ul><li><a href="#Software_Requirements_Analysis">3.1 Software Requirements Analysis</a></li><li><a href="#Reviews_Self-Review_and_Peer_Review">3.2 Reviews: Self-Review and Peer Review</a></li><li><a href="#Defect_Logging_and_Documentation">3.3 Defect Logging and Documentation</a></li><li><a href="#Root_Cause_Analysis_and_Preventive_Measures_Determination">3.4 Root Cause Analysis and Preventive Measures Determination</a></li><li><a href="#Embedding_Procedures_into_Software_Development_Process">3.5 Embedding Procedures into Software Development Process</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#Role_played_by_Test_Automation_in_Defect_Prevention">4 Role played by Test Automation in Defect Prevention</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_is_a_checklist_and_how_does_it_prevent_defects">6.1 What is a checklist and how does it prevent defects?</a></li><li><a href="#What_is_the_difference_between_defect_detection_and_defect_prevention">6.2 What is the difference between defect detection and defect prevention?</a></li><li><a href="#How_does_QA_prevent_defects">6.3 How does QA prevent defects?</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
<h2 id="h-what-is-defect-prevention">What is Defect Prevention?</h2>



Defect prevention is a strategy in the SDLC that is deployed to identify and target the root causes of any defects. The process involves analyzing defects appearing in past projects, laying down distinct checkpoints in the pipelines, and taking action to prevent the emergence of similar defects/bugs/anomalies in the future.&nbsp;



Defect Prevention is built on the extraction of and sharing of technical knowledge between QA teams or testing projects. Prevention methods are used to improve quality and productivity while keeping development costs low.&nbsp;



<h2 id="h-advantages-of-early-defect-detection">Advantages of Early Defect Detection</h2>



<ul><li>Defects are much easier to handle if discovered at an early stage. Rigorous detection cycles can identify potential issues before they snowball into bigger, more expensive problems. Think of it as examining the raw materials in a manufacturing process before sending them into the manufacturing pipeline. </li><li>Reduces rework, waste and minimizes the risk of customer complaints and app uninstallations. </li><li>Allows teams to monitor operations, analyze data, and narrow down testing areas for optimization and change. Leads to lower cycle times, higher efficiency rates, and targeted utilization of resources. This inevitably translates to cost savings. </li><li>Frees up dev and QA time that would otherwise be spent dealing with completely avoidable bugs. </li><li>Forces test leaders to think in terms of prevention and optimization when designing test cases, scripts, and implementation guidelines. </li><li>Involves collaboration with all stakeholders so as to prioritize what defects and bugs should be quickly detected, based on user paths, preferences, actions and business needs.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-principles-of-defect-prevention">Principles of Defect Prevention&nbsp;</h2>



<h3 id="h-software-requirements-analysis">Software Requirements Analysis</h3>



Defects in the requirements and design phase will translate to foundational source code, if not rooted out at the source. Requirements-based defects are the hardest to eliminate after coding begins, because it often means undoing protocols that prop up the whole system.&nbsp;



These defects cannot be found via traditional testing methods. They require review and inspections after the documents are finalized.&nbsp;



Read More: <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/techniques-to-prevent-software-bugs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Techniques To Prevent Software Bugs</a>



“According to Crosstalk, the Journal of Defense Software Engineering, “most failures in software products are due to errors in the requirements and design phases—as high as 64 percent of total defect costs.” <a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/uk/Documents/technology/deloitte-uk-your-bad-requirements-are-costing-you-money.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Source</a>



All software requirements and designs must be reviewed to ensure that the requirements accurately reflect customer needs. Consider running sessions between devs and customers so the software creators understand what they need to prioritize in their code.&nbsp;



<h3 id="h-reviews-self-review-and-peer-review">Reviews: Self-Review and Peer Review</h3>



Self-reviews and peer reviews refine code quality by bringing multiple pairs of eyes on the source code. These reviews are excellent for ferreting out algorithm implementations, holes in logic, and missing conditions. The self-review helps the developer clean up any obvious flaws they might have missed in a rush, while the peer reviews provide a new POV and the expertise of a fellow teammate or manager.&nbsp;



<h3 id="h-defect-logging-and-documentation">Defect Logging and Documentation</h3>



All defects must be tracked, logged, investigated, and reported. Ideally, QAs should suggest structures/steps to resolve defects, but that usually only works out when the workload is not overwhelming (and it usually is).&nbsp;



When considering the purchase of a <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-tracking/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defect tracking</a> or <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-management/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defect management</a> tool, check for the following features:



<ul><li>Allows QAs to provide complete descriptions of each defect so that devs understand the problem in its entirety.&nbsp;</li><li>Allows QAs to clarify at which phase of software testing the defects have been encountered.&nbsp;</li><li>Allows QAs to upload screenshots/videos for further clarification.</li><li>Contains space to mention the names of QAs who find each defect, so that they can be contacted by devs if so required.&nbsp;</li></ul>



<h3 id="h-root-cause-analysis-and-preventive-measures-determination">Root Cause Analysis and Preventive Measures Determination</h3>



Once defects are logged, they must be examined. Often a meeting (initiated by the project manager/coordinator) is required to explore root causes of as many defects as possible.&nbsp;



This stage – <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-analysis/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defect analysis</a> – aims to achieve the following:&nbsp;



<ul><li>Improving software quality by finding and neutralizing as many defects as possible, as early as possible. This requires examination of their root causes.&nbsp;</li><li>Understanding how the defect operates and what function it hinders by speaking directly to the QAs who found it.</li><li>Diving into systemic errors whose cause is buried in the foundation structure of the source code. These bugs are the hardest to handle, and must necessarily be addressed at early stages of the SDLC.</li></ul>



<h3 id="h-embedding-procedures-into-software-development-process">Embedding Procedures into Software Development Process</h3>



Read More: <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-removal-efficiency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Defect Removal Efficiency: How To Calculate It For Test Automation</a>



The last stage of defect prevention requires teams to take their learnings from the analysis stage and use them to optimize the development process. It requires the entire team to figure out ways to modify existing processes, introduce new practices, and provide proof that these changes will have a tangible positive impact on final outcomes.&nbsp;



A few tips to achieve the above:



<ul><li>Provide monthly status reports of the team mentioning recurrent serious defects and analyses. </li><li>Monthly (ideally) or fortnightly meetings to inform all stakeholders about the state of the SDLC and any major defects that choke its efficacy. </li><li>Taking the time to regularly push for and implement better prevention measures into the SDLC (as far as stakeholder approval makes it possible). </li><li>Monitoring the SDLC before and after implementation defect prevention tactics. Have they actually led to a reduction in the number of defects?</li></ul>



<h2 id="h-role-played-by-test-automation-in-defect-prevention">Role played by Test Automation in Defect Prevention</h2>



Traditionally, test automation has been used to identify defects and refine the QA process by taking human effort out of repetitive and time-intensive tasks. Instead of running a regression test manually for the 6th time, testers can focus on complex problems that machines cannot solve.&nbsp;



Test automation plays the most integral role in defect prevention – finding defects quickly and easily. By creating suitable test scripts, QAs can automate predetermined user actions and analyze the actual results without having to run each step themselves.&nbsp;



Take acceptance tests as an example. Teams can build a set of criteria that denote that software functioning is “acceptable” and deploy automation tools like Testsigma to follow the script and generate error-free results.&nbsp;



Not only does test automation reduce the time and effort required to sniff out major and minor defects, it also takes human error out of the equations. Human eyes and minds are naturally prone to error, especially when they are looking at the same screen and performing the same action over hours. Machines, fed with appropriate and comprehensive input parameters, do not have the same problem. They do not get tired and they do not make human mistakes.&nbsp;



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



Quality Assurance doesn’t just eliminate bugs as they show up. In its larger context, QA professionals envision and implement systems to better filter out defects that hamper software performance and user experience.&nbsp;



As technology evolves, so do the defects that infect it. Defect prevention takes a step back from immediate debugging (though that is still very much a part of it) and applies testers’ real-world experiences to development and testing contexts.&nbsp;



Defect prevention reduces testing costs, effort and time. It has a direct positive impact on the ROI of QA budgets, because it examines the cause rather than the symptoms of software malfunction.&nbsp;



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



<h3 id="h-what-is-a-checklist-and-how-does-it-prevent-defects">What is a checklist and how does it prevent defects?</h3>



A checklist is used by QA engineers to note down all steps or tasks to be accomplished in a project. In the defect prevention ecosystem, checklists offer a systematic approach to everything that needs to be done to actually prevent defects.&nbsp;



QAs refer to checklists to confirm that every user step and bug detection mechanism has been enacted or implemented. It is directly useful for improving efficiency, quality, and safety mechanisms.&nbsp;



<h3 id="h-what-is-the-difference-between-defect-detection-and-defect-prevention">What is the difference between defect detection and defect prevention?</h3>



As the phrases themselves suggest, defect detection is confined to the act of identifying defects in the software as it is developed. Defect prevention, on the other hand, uses experience from past projects to create and embed practices that prevent too many defects from emerging in the first place.&nbsp;



Defect detection is part of defect prevention, but not vice-versa.&nbsp;



<h3 id="h-how-does-qa-prevent-defects">How does QA prevent defects?</h3>



The process of Quality Assurance (QA) focuses primarily on finding, tracking, analyzing, reporting, and eliminating defects in software. It also involves building systems to prevent defects from showing up too frequently by addressing the common root causes. By studying such causes, software behavior, and user expectations, experts can put appropriate filters to prevent <a href="https://testsigma.com/blog/defect-leakage-in-software-testing/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">defect leakage</a> in place. They can also recommend best practices that minimize the likelihood of bugs emerging from errors in requirements, design blueprints, and rushed coding.