Software test design and planning
Test design and planning is the basis of software quality work. QA teams can apply all types of software testing models, frameworks and strategies in their assessments of software, from defining requirements to writing test cases. With these articles from our independent experts, determine what you need to assess in tests, and plot out a plan accordingly.
Top Stories
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Tip
25 Feb 2022
Where requirements-based tests fit in software testing
Requirements-based testing has its upsides and downsides, and it's not right for every software project. But certain dev teams should still adopt the method. Learn which ones. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Feb 2022
The crucial role of test scenarios, especially in automation
Test scenarios are often touted as a key part of effective software testing strategies. But what exactly do they do and how can teams ensure the ones they develop are effective? Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jan 2022
Testing automated Kubernetes deployments, a GitOps benefit
GitOps and GitOps tooling may be your answer to the tricky, taxing problem that is testing Kubernetes environments. Explore why, how and what's necessary to perform GitOps testing. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2021
What unit test coverage percentage should teams aim for?
Unit testing is frequently needed, but what amount? Learn how to determine the amount of unit test coverage you need, what code to focus on, how to measure coverage and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Nov 2021
Quality engineering vs. quality assurance: Know the differences
Any dev team serious about improving software quality should study the quality engineering vs. quality assurance debate. Let's review the two practices' differences and overlap. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Nov 2021
Use cases of various types of test doubles for unit testing
Test doubles run the gamut from mocks, to stubs, to fakes and spies. Let's examine the ups and downs of using various test double types with unit testing. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Oct 2021
How to write a test report for software testing
Test report writers, here we will overview how to write your summary, what details to include in it, how to keep your audience in mind and other important considerations. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jul 2021
Basics of SaaS testing, challenges and strategies
With the software-as-a-service model, QA professionals must address particular test challenges and criteria. Let's look at those SaaS issues and the strategies to navigate them. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2021
Who is responsible for integration testing?
It's not always clear who is responsible for the integration testing of those new application components. Let's sort through the confusion. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2021
How to implement mock objects for simpler testing
Test mocking can serve as a valuable asset in a developer's toolbelt. Here's how to implement mock objects within testing processes and some potential pitfalls to be aware of. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jun 2021
What are an SDET's roles and responsibilities?
A QA professional remains essential to the creation of quality software, while a software development engineer in test adds a different layer to the process. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jun 2021
SAST vs. DAST vs. IAST: Security testing tool comparison
Before your team decides upon a security testing tool, take into account both the methods and limitations of SAST, DAST and IAST. Consider what each approach brings to the table. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2021
How to use mind maps for software testing
Mind mapping is a visual way to brainstorm test ideas. Learn how to create and use mind maps to improve software quality. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Apr 2021
A production readiness checklist for software development
To achieve a smooth release cycle that can uncover potential glitches, an enterprise needs software release criteria that involve members of the dev, ops and business teams. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Feb 2021
How to write test cases for both manual and automated tests
Immerse yourself in the basics -- and particulars -- of writing test cases for both manual and automated tests, and learn the components crucial to each approach. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Feb 2021
How to plan unit test coverage
Explore what an effective unit testing strategy looks like, whether it's wise to aim for a certain percentage of test coverage and how much unit testing is enough. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Jan 2021
Top 3 application performance testing objectives and goals
Let's explore the importance of result analysis, the right measurements and test design for application performance testing. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jan 2021
A guide to testing in DevOps and key strategies, practices
Here's why testers and testing are such big parts of DevOps, and some ways to further incorporate testing for better software application development. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jan 2021
How to handle root cause analysis of software defects
Root cause analysis plays a major role in how software teams can fix their defects. Here's how to employ root cause analysis and how teams can get the most out of the process. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2020
Basics of the pairwise, or all-pairs, testing technique
Pairwise testing can improve test coverage without increasing wait times. Consider the QA technique's benefits, challenges and role within a test suite. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2020
4 innovations in software development and testing to watch
These methods and technologies change the way developers and testers do their jobs -- or even what their duties are. Explore innovations related to AI, the flow of work and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Aug 2020
Assess TestRail vs. Zephyr test management tools
TestRail and Zephyr offer test management capabilities and integrate with tools that development teams rely on, like Jira. Check out features and user reviews for each product. Continue Reading
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Video
26 Jun 2020
Xray for Jira tutorial on test management, execution
The Xray plugin makes test management easier within Jira. Follow along with this video tutorial to take some of the friction out of your test management process. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Jun 2020
How experts run shift-left and shift-right testing
It's time to eliminate the testing bottleneck. Perform tests early and late in the SDLC to keep software moving -- and cut down on defects. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 May 2020
Why flaky tests are a problem you can't ignore
Monotonous as the task might be, QA must detect and fix the root causes of flaky tests. Invest the time and effort, or risk the dangers of an unreliable test automation suite. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Apr 2020
How to get started with automation test scripts
What makes a good test script? And how do you evaluate appropriate tools and languages? Here's what software developers and testers need to know to make test automation part of their process. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Apr 2020
Know when to choose automated vs. manual testing
Vendors have inched toward automated application testing for a long time, yet there is still room for growth. Software tester Amy Reichert offers her insights. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Apr 2020
Can we fully automate our software testing?
Your boss has jumped on the bandwagon to automate software testing. Don't despair. Software testing expert Matt Heusser walks through what to say -- and do -- to keep everyone happy. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Feb 2020
How to use TODO comments for secure software development
Don't let security be a software development burden. Learn app developer tricks, such as using TODO comments, to ensure security controls make it from development to production. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Feb 2020
3 reasons testers need a QA manager in Agile
Agile teams without a QA manager prioritize developers' perspectives -- even to the software's detriment. Here are three ways in which a QA manager offers value to Agile teams, and how they support testers. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Jan 2020
5 software testing books QA professionals should dig into
There's no cookie-cutter crash course on software testing. However, these five books can get beginners on the right path to better quality software. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Dec 2019
How to do API testing to improve application quality
APIs run apps, so it's essential to test them beyond simple connectivity. Study these API testing basics, like when to run such tests, and the benefits of giving this task to QA. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Nov 2019
How to perform test automation maintenance
Automated tests run on their own, but they need a little help to stay in shape. Proactively address test automation maintenance with initiatives in these two key areas. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Oct 2019
What's the difference between API and web services testing?
Web services and APIs aren't the same -- or are they? How do web services and API testing differ, and what does each type of test aim to achieve? Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Sep 2019
5 key ways to fulfill the role of QA in DevOps
DevOps teams want production-ready code, which means someone in this fast-moving pipeline needs to think like a user. Enter QA, with its toolkit of exploratory tests, design review and more. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Sep 2019
How to approach test case design
To be a good tester, start at requirements and user expectations, then develop test cases that make certain those needs are met. Walk through the basics of test cases with expert Gerie Owen. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Sep 2019
How to plot out a test automation strategy
Test automation can deliver great value or immense frustration. Map out a winning approach that helps engineers learn test automation skills and doesn't leave them exasperated. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jul 2019
Staging environment best practices that boost software QA
Despite advances like shift-right testing in production environments, staging environments still have a crucial role to play. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jun 2019
Contract-driven testing syncs API providers, consumers
To check if the APIs your software depends on meet expectations, apply a consumer-driven contract testing framework. Let's examine the syntax, tooling and examples of this approach. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Jun 2019
Which code quality metrics should devs track?
Developers and testers strive to create quality, reusable code to deploy apps faster and keeps users happy. But what metrics should they track to evaluate code quality? Continue Reading
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Quiz
31 May 2019
Review QA fundamentals with this software testing quiz
Software testing occurs throughout the development life cycle, and these tests require a deft hand to execute well. Check your knowledge of the fundamentals to see where you stand. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 May 2019
6 ways to accelerate automated software testing
Reducing software test time requires a change in approach. Consider ways to simplify test setup, eliminate redundant aspects of your procedures and override failures. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2019
Common software compatibility issues and how to fix them
Developers tend to look forward, to the next iteration or the newest software. But, when releasing a feature, don't leave behind end users with older systems and edge case setups. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Apr 2019
Apply these types of code coverage to squash most bugs
Learn technical types of code coverage -- such as all-pairs testing and branch tests -- as well as ways to gather meaningful test cases and prioritize them. Continue Reading
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Podcast
18 Mar 2019
Author, QA expert extols continuous testing virtues
Long tests and isolated QA grind app delivery to a crawl. In this episode of 'Test & Release,' author Eran Kinsbruner explains how DevOps cannot exist without continuous testing. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Mar 2019
Software testing using AI changes things, but not everything
Will artificial intelligence eliminate the need for human expertise in software testing? Here's where things are headed. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Feb 2019
Evaluate load testing tool features and vendors
Application load testing products come in a variety of forms and their features vary. Read through these specs to find the tool that's right for you. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Feb 2019
How to use Jira as a test management tool
While Atlassian Jira is a common tool to manage software projects, Amy Reichert's team uses it to manage tests. She details snags you might encounter with test cases and management. Continue Reading
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Opinion
05 Feb 2019
3 ways to test in production promptly and productively
As much as Agile and DevOps changed development, they also shifted testers' roles -- to the right. Gerie Owen offers three ways to evaluate apps in production to find failures. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jan 2019
Use shift-right testing to cut skepticism, deployment delays
Production environments are the final frontier for bug hunters. So, embrace -- don't eschew -- shift-right testing. It has the potential to enhance software quality for users. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Jan 2019
What to look for in application load testing tools
Load testing tools help ensure an app is ready for prime time. But, with so many tools on the market, buyers must closely examine the products' features and their own environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Dec 2018
How to create test data that yields accurate QA results
Testers need valid data to prevent app defects, which means they must simulate real data types and structure them as closely as possible. Don't fake it when you make it. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Dec 2018
Experts weigh in on DevOps transformation, QA topics
As the technology conference season winds down, sessions at Velocity and DevOps Enterprise Summit offer helpful insight for forward-thinking organizations. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Nov 2018
Use these shift-right methods to test code in production
There's no shortage of ways for a QA team to adopt shift-right testing. But, while the approach can fit in with continuous deployment, don't consider it a catch-all for bug removal. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Nov 2018
Learn how to improve software quality with reverse-engineering
Customer complaints about a team's app can contain insight on how to improve it. Yet, to decipher the actual cause of any problem and a change to fix it, QA needs to be brought in. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Nov 2018
Big picture QA testing skills foster better app usability
As companies wrestle to fit QA into budgets, keep in mind the skills that human testers provide -- from customer satisfaction to disaster prevention. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2018
Combat algorithm bias with these software test pointers
As AI penetrates all kinds of software, it's imperative that testers devise a plan to verify predictive results. Put QA professionals on task to root out AI bias. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Oct 2018
Continuous testing in Agile means less work, more coverage
Rather than ride the turbulent roller coaster of testing bottlenecks and uncontrolled code updates, go on the steadily paced continuous testing Ferris wheel. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Oct 2018
Make your pitch for chaos engineering practices
Is your QA team ready for chaos engineering? Find out how to prep staff for resilience engineering and why you should avoid that 'chaotic' name altogether. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Sep 2018
Craft an integration testing plan with quality before quantity
When it comes to integration testing, the end user is more important than the test volume. Increase test efficiency to please both application users and owners. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Aug 2018
Hire a software testing team that fits your startup culture
Albeit strapped for cash and time, software startups need testers as much as large companies. Advocate for a testing team, and find candidates who will excel in a startup culture. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Aug 2018
Improving testing architecture when moving to microservices
Gamesys, the developer and operator of many online games, rethought its approach to testing during the move from a monolith. A pyramid made software tests more manageable. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Jun 2018
A QA team finds continuous testing benefits worth the effort
QA teams can gain a lot from continuous testing. While successful continuous testing requires all of an organization to get on board, the results are worth it. Continue Reading
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Answer
07 May 2018
How can I attend software testing conferences?
You want to attend a software testing conference, but your employer said it's too expensive. Here are some ways to improve your chances to attend. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Feb 2018
A comprehensive beginner's guide to DevOps for developers
Starting DevOps in your organization and not sure where to begin? Cameron McKenzie explains everything a developer needs to know to successfully begin the DevOps process. Continue Reading
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Opinion
19 Feb 2018
The promise of ML/AI is real -- so are the challenges
Machine learning and artificial intelligence will make the impossible happen, if developers can understand the what-ifs involved. Expert Torsten Volk unpacks it all. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Feb 2018
Lower the risk of change in continuous testing
Expert Matt Heusser explains how to improve mobile and web application continuous testing in seven steps. Learn how to identify goals and avoid failures with continuous flow. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2018
Testers face pressure to improve software technical skills
If you want to stand out from the testing crowd, spend some time acquiring technical skills. Expert Matthew Heusser offers an on-point tester training curriculum. Continue Reading
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Answer
04 Jan 2018
What does it mean to test APIs?
Expert Gerie Owen explains what it means to test APIs and why it is important to ensure that applications are working at peak performance level. Continue Reading
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Opinion
02 Jan 2018
Why you should get on board with software testing trends
Will your organization design a machine learning app in 2018? Or should you pick up DevOps skills to be in demand as a tester? These trends will all have a major effect on software testing. Continue Reading
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11 Dec 2017
Strategies to master the software testing process
This portion of the Software Development Training Center delves into the first steps necessary when making considerable transitions in a software testing process. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2017
Five reasons your software testing career is harder than necessary
No job is perfect, but software testers do have a few things to complain about. Expert Amy Reichert shares the five things that make her want to polish her résumé. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2017
Everything you need to know about testing .NET applications
For the most efficient testing, you need the right tools for the job. Expert Matt Heusser explains in detail all the testing tools for tackling apps built with Microsoft's .NET. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Dec 2016
Be a more technical tester with HTML, CSS and JS
If you're ready to boost your testing skills, why not learn more about web development? Expert Matt Heusser walks you through HTML, CSS and JS to get you started. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2013
SaaS application testing: Keep performance tests in mind
Performance testing must be a high priority for SaaS application testers. Learn why and pick up tips on how to test a SaaS system's performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2012
How to measure test progress: Every picture tells a story
Seeing the big picture when it comes managing the progress of your software tests may require putting together all the little picture pieces. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Jun 2012
When to perform post-production testing
In some cases, testing post-production is needed, according to expert Pete Walen. He discusses the potential situations where post-production testing is helpful and what expectations we can have for performance testing. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2012
Streamlining user acceptance testing (UAT) with Agile
Organizations that implement successful user acceptance testing can greatly reduce errors and business risks. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Feb 2011
Embedded software testing: Five messaging event styles
In testing embedded systems, timing can often cause trouble. In this tip, consultant Scott Allman describes the five different types of event styles that can occur when two events are executed. A good test plan will cover each of those event styles by executing the conditions to create the different styles and then checking for appropriate messaging. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Feb 2011
Manual testing vs. automated testing: A decision point
Automation in a test environment can be expensive and doesn’t always yield a high return. In fact, a high percentage of automation efforts fail. In this tip, Vasudeva Naidu gives advice on key factors that will lead to success in your automation initiative. Naidu describes the history of automation in test, including reasons leading to failure. Done well, and augmented by manual tests, automation can prove instrumental to a successful test effort. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Nov 2010
Applying lean concepts to software testing
If we're going to use a factory analogy for software development, shouldn't we at least study the techniques modern factories use? In this tip, software quality expert Matt Heusser describes concepts used first for lean manufacturing, which are now being applied to software development and software testing. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Dec 2008
Using proactive test design methods to catch requirements issues early
Proactive test design allows QA testers to identify requirements and design problems at an earlier stage than with traditional test cases. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Aug 2008
Test metrics and use case coverage during testing
When using use cases to drive testing, it's important to understand that there are no industry standards for coverage. Testing expert Mike Kelly explains how testers should approach dubious metrics. Continue Reading
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Answer
06 Feb 2008
Granularity in test case design
Test case granularity is a complex issue in test case design. Expert John Overbaugh explains how to determine how detailed your test cases should be. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Aug 2007
Test plan and test strategy
Software testing is helped by a good test plans, strategies and logistics. Expert Scott Barber explains what these aspects of the testing methodology are. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 May 2007
Software testing deliverables: From test plans to status reports
Core sets of deliverable are required for any software testing phase. In many cases they include a test plan, test case, defect documentation and status report. Learn what is required for each in this tip from David W. Johnson. Continue Reading