3.2 - Summary Table of STLC Phases
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Requirement Analysis
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In the Requirement Analysis phase, we focus on understanding what needs to be tested. Can anyone tell me what documents we might review during this phase?
We would look at the Business Requirement Documents and User Stories.
Exactly! These documents help us identify testable requirements. Remember, we also need to clarify any gaps or ambiguities with the BA or Product Owner. Why do you think this is important?
To ensure we test the right functionalities and avoid missing anything.
Correct! So, what is one of the key deliverables from this phase?
The Requirements Traceability Matrix!
Great! Now, letβs summarize this phase: Remember, its goal is to have all requirements clear and approved before we move to the next phase.
Test Planning
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The next phase is Test Planning. What do you think is the primary goal of this phase?
To define the strategies, objectives, and logistics for testing.
Exactly! We need to consider test objectives, estimation of resources, and tool selection. Can anyone name a key document produced in this phase?
The Test Plan Document.
Right! Remember, without a solid plan, testing can be haphazard. What do we need to have completed to move to this phase?
The requirements baseline needs to be done.
Exactly! In summary, proper planning is essential for effective testing.
Test Case Development
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Letβs discuss Test Case Development. What is the main task in this phase?
Writing test cases and preparing test data.
Correct! It's essential to ensure these are complete and well-reviewed. Why is reviewing these documents important?
To make sure we have covered all scenarios and requirements.
Exactly! What do we want to achieve before we move on from this phase?
All test cases must be reviewed and approved.
Right! So, it's clear that this phase sets the groundwork for our actual testing.
Test Execution
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Now, letβs talk about Test Execution. What do we do in this phase?
We run the test cases and log any defects.
Yes! During execution, we compare expected vs. actual results. Why is this step critical?
It helps us ensure that the software functions as intended.
Exactly! What do we provide as deliverables after this phase?
The Test Execution Report and the Defect Report.
Correct! And always rememberβattention to detail here is crucial for the overall quality of the software.
Test Cycle Closure
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Finally, we have the Test Cycle Closure. What is the focus of this phase?
To assess test coverage and document lessons learned.
Exactly! It's our time to analyze the success of our testing phase. What document do we produce at the end?
The Test Summary Report!
Right! It's vital that we learn from each cycle to improve future testing processes. Letβs summarize: this closure phase not only wraps up testing but also helps enhance future efforts.
Introduction & Overview
Read summaries of the section's main ideas at different levels of detail.
Quick Overview
Standard
The Summary Table of STLC Phases presents a structured overview of each phase involved in the STLC process. It highlights objectives, activities, entry and exit criteria, and key deliverables for each phase, emphasizing the importance of systematic and effective testing.
Detailed
Detailed Summary of STLC Phases
The Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) consists of essential phases that ensure quality assurance in the software development process. Each phase has distinct objectives, activities, entry and exit criteria, and deliverables as outlined below:
1. Requirement Analysis
- Objective: Understand what needs to be tested.
- Activities: Involves reviewing documentation, identifying testable requirements, and clarifying ambiguities with stakeholders.
- Deliverables: Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM), Requirements Review Report.
2. Test Planning
- Objective: Define the overall strategy, including scope and objectives.
- Activities: Identification of test objectives, estimation of resources, and preparation of a test plan.
- Deliverables: Test Plan Document, Risk Management Plan, Effort Estimation Sheet.
3. Test Case Development
- Objective: Establish detailed test cases and prepare necessary test data.
- Activities: Writing and reviewing test cases and scripts.
- Deliverables: Test Cases & Test Scripts, Test Data.
4. Test Environment Setup
- Objective: Ensure all testing environments are correctly configured.
- Activities: Installing tools, configuring environments, and validating readiness through smoke testing.
- Deliverables: Environment Validation Report, Access Credentials.
5. Test Execution
- Objective: Execute each test case and document findings.
- Activities: Running tests, logging defects, and retesting post-defect fixes.
- Deliverables: Test Execution Report, Defect Report.
6. Test Cycle Closure
- Objective: Close testing activities formally.
- Activities: Assessing metrics, archiving testware, and documenting lessons learned.
- Deliverables: Test Summary Report, Lessons Learned Document.
Importance of Entry & Exit Criteria
Entry and exit criteria are essential components in each phase, ensuring that a phase has been adequately addressed before moving on. This structure reduces ambiguity and aids in process maturity.
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Requirement Analysis Phase
Chapter 1 of 6
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Chapter Content
| Phase | Entry Criteria | Exit Criteria | Key Deliverables |
|---|---|---|---|
| Requirement docs available | RTM initiated, gaps identified clarification | RTM draft, log |
Detailed Explanation
The Requirement Analysis Phase is where the focus is on identifying what needs to be tested. Before this phase begins, the necessary requirement documents must be available to the team. The exit criteria specify that the Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM) should be initiated and any gaps or ambiguities in the requirements should be clarified. The key deliverables from this phase include a draft of the RTM and a log of identified gaps.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine preparing for a big test. Before you start studying, you need a syllabus (requirement docs) that outlines what topics you need to cover. You check if any chapters are unclear to ensure you focus on the right areas. Your study notes (RTM draft) will guide your preparation, ensuring you know exactly what areas might need more attention.
Test Planning Phase
Chapter 2 of 6
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Chapter Content
| Phase | Entry Criteria | Exit Criteria | Key Deliverables |
|---|---|---|---|
| Requirements Approved test baseline | Test Plan, Risk Plan |
Detailed Explanation
In the Test Planning Phase, the team defines the strategy for testing. This begins once the requirements have been approved and a test strategy template is available. The exit criteria for this phase ensure that the test plan is reviewed and approved. Key deliverables include the Test Plan Document and the Risk Management Plan, which outline how to navigate potential obstacles during testing.
Examples & Analogies
Think of planning a trip. Before you go, you need to finalize your itinerary (test plan) based on your destination (approved requirements). You may think about the risks, like bad weather (risk plan), and ensure you have all the resources needed for your travel.
Test Case Development Phase
Chapter 3 of 6
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Chapter Content
| Phase | Entry Criteria | Exit Criteria | Key Deliverables |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test plan approved | All test cases reviewed | Test Cases, Test Data |
Detailed Explanation
During the Test Case Development Phase, testers design detailed test cases based on the approved test plan. The entry criteria indicate that the test plan must be approved first. By the end of this phase, all test cases should be reviewed and approved along with the prepared test data. Key deliverables include the test cases and the test data, which will be used for executing the tests.
Examples & Analogies
Itβs like setting up a recipe before cooking. You first check that you have your ingredients ready (test plan approved). Once you've drafted the steps (test cases) and gathered everything (test data), you run through the recipe to ensure it will work well.
Test Environment Setup Phase
Chapter 4 of 6
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Chapter Content
| Phase | Entry Criteria | Exit Criteria | Key Deliverables |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environment requirements identified | Environment validated via smoke testing | Environment Checklist |
Detailed Explanation
In the Test Environment Setup Phase, the focus is on ensuring that the necessary hardware and software are properly installed and configured for testing. Entry criteria require that the environment requirements be well understood. The exit criteria ensure that all setups pass a preliminary check (smoke test) and that the environment is stable and accessible for testing. A primary deliverable is the Environment Validation Report, which confirms readiness.
Examples & Analogies
This is akin to setting up a stage for a play. You need to know what props and lights (environment requirements) you need. Before the show starts (testing), you run a rehearsed scene in front of a small audience (smoke test) to ensure everything works as intended.
Test Execution Phase
Chapter 5 of 6
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Chapter Content
| Phase | Entry Criteria | Exit Criteria | Key Deliverables |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test cases + environment ready | All test cases executed, bugs logged | Execution Logs, Bug Reports |
Detailed Explanation
The Test Execution Phase is where actual testing occurs. The entry criteria denote that all test cases and test data must be ready, along with the test environment. By this phase's end, all test cases should be executed, and any bugs must be logged. Key deliverables here include execution logs, which capture the results of each test, and bug reports that summarize any defects found.
Examples & Analogies
Think of this phase as a live performance. Youβve prepared everything (test cases, environment), and now itβs time to perform. You document the performance (execution logs) and take note of any mistakes (bug reports) to improve for next time.
Test Cycle Closure Phase
Chapter 6 of 6
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Chapter Content
| Phase | Entry Criteria | Exit Criteria | Key Deliverables |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test execution completed | Summary report, retrospectives held | Final RTM, Lessons Learned |
Detailed Explanation
The Test Cycle Closure Phase marks the conclusion of testing activities. The entry criteria require that testing is complete, and the status of defects is resolved or accepted. Exit criteria ensure that all necessary deliverables are submitted and that the Quality Assurance (QA) team provides final sign-off. Key deliverables include a Test Summary Report detailing the outcomes and a Lessons Learned document for future reference.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine running a project and, once itβs over, you sit down to review how it went and what could be improved. That summary report captures everything, including successes and mistakes (lessons learned), to help in future projects.
Key Concepts
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Entry Criteria: Conditions that must be fulfilled before a testing phase can begin.
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Exit Criteria: Conditions that must be fulfilled before advancing to the next phase.
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Test Environment Setup: Preparing the necessary environment for executing test cases.
Examples & Applications
An example of Requirement Analysis is when a QA team reviews functional specifications to identify what needs to be tested and what is feasible.
During Test Planning, if the team decides to utilize automation testing tools, they must document this decision in the Test Plan Document.
Memory Aids
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Rhymes
Before we test, make sure it's best; check the docs and create a quest.
Stories
Imagine a software explorer who checks maps (requirements) thoroughly before journeying into testing landsβthe foundation of successful testing!
Memory Tools
Remember the acronym 'RTE-TC' for Requirement Analysis, Test Planning, Test Case Development, Test Environment Setup, Test Execution, and Test Cycle Closure.
Acronyms
SIT-C (Software In Testing - Completion) represents the phases of STLC you must navigate.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Requirement Analysis
The process of assessing documentation to identify testable requirements.
- Test Planning
The phase in which a testing strategy and scope are defined.
- Test Case Development
The creation of detailed test cases and required test data.
- Test Environment Setup
The configuration and validation of the environment for testing.
- Test Execution
The phase where test cases are executed, and results are documented.
- Test Cycle Closure
The final phase that formally concludes testing and assesses outcomes.
- Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM)
A document that traces and links requirements to their test cases.
- Defect Report
A document that records and tracks identified defects in the software.
Reference links
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