Being an integral part of software development process, testing is carried out to ensure that the developed software works well with meeting all user’s requirements and needs. There are a lot of methods of testing which may vary greatly depending on the specific features of the software and the development process.
As any other complex process, software testing consists of different test stages, and each of them is represented by a specific range of activities. Unlike the types of testing or methodologies, its stages remain quite the same for any project and include 7 activities.
So what are the typical stages of testing life cycle? Let’s look at the different stages of testing in detail.
Testing Stage 1 – Test Plan
Software testing should always begin with establishing a well-thought-out test plan to ensure an efficient execution of the entire testing process. An efficient test plan must include clauses concerning the amount of work to be done, deadlines and milestones to be met, methods of testing, and other formalities like contingencies and risks.
Testing Stage 2 – Analysis
At this stage, a functional validation matrix is made. The in-house or outsourced testing team analyzes the requirements and test cases that are to be automated and which one need to be tested manually. Like all other different stages of testing, this one has a crucial effect on the outcome of the project and therefore needs a lot of attention.
Testing Stage 3 – Design
If the testing team has reached this stage, it means that there is no confusion or misunderstanding concerning the test plan, validation matrix, or test cases. At the Designing step of the software testing stages, the testing team makes suitable scripts for automated test cases and generates test data for both automated and manual test cases.
Testing Stage 4 – Development
At this stage, scripting is provided. In particular cases, development stage also includes unit tests and generating of performance and stress test plans. Usually it happens when testing starts together with the software development process.
Testing Stage 5 – Execution
As soon as the entire scripting has been made, its execution begins. First, the testing team executes unit tests, and then functionality tests. They identify bugs on the superficial level and report them to the software developers. After that, detailed testing is carried out. The execution part of the test stages is completed when test and bug reports are made up.
Testing Stage 6 – Bug fixing
When the testing team identifies the bugs, they send it to development team. If the development team considers fixing the bugs, the testing team has to retest the software in order to check that no new bugs have been created while fixing using, among other things, regression testing.
Testing Stage 7 – Software is implemented
This is the final one of the testing stages and takes place all test cases are executed and all procedures are carried out. The software is delivered to the end user who tests it and reports if any bugs take place.
To sum up
The stages of the software testing life cycle, also known as software testing stages, are one of the first things a prospective QA engineer learns when mastering the craft of testing. These testing stages are universally applicable and compatible with nearly every project methodology and scope. That is why this is essential knowledge for anyone related to the software development and testing process, whether a developer, QA engineer, project manager, or business owner.
