The first step in every Software Testing Life Cycle is test planning.

It is important to test any new software before it goes live. This helps improve IT security and identifies any issues.

Software developers should make testing as easy as possible. This allows the software to be quickly released. However, more complicated testing software takes longer. If you are stuck with complicated software testing, then do consider availing Software Testing & QA Services in Canada for top notch assistance!

In this article, we will cover the entire process of test planning and all the necessary steps to create software tests that are result-oriented, regardless of the nature or project.

Let us first have a look at what is the test plan and test case is. Following this we will discuss its importance and components!

What is a Test Plan?

A test plan is a detailed document that lists the test strategies, objectives and schedules. It includes estimates, deadlines and other resources. It is a guideline for the testing required to ensure that the software works properly. This plan can be controlled by test managers.

A well-crafted test program is a dynamic document that can be modified according to the progress of the project at all times.

It serves as the basis for testing activities and coordination among QA teams.

The test plan can also be shared with Project Managers, Business Analysts, Dev teams and any other people involved in the project. This mainly provides transparency into QA activities, so all stakeholders can see how the software will work. The QA leaders and managers create the plan based on inputs from QA (and other times non-QA) team members.

What is a Test Case?

A software test case is a detailed description of the specific steps to be taken to test a software application or system to ensure that it behaves as expected.

It is a document that outlines the conditions that will be used to validate whether the software meets its intended functionality, performance, and security requirements. A test case typically includes input data, the expected output, and the specific steps required to execute the test.

Software test cases can be written by testers, developers, or business analysts, depending on the development process and the testing methodology being used.

Well-designed software test cases are critical for identifying defects and ensuring the quality of software products, and they are often used as part of a broader software testing strategy that includes other testing methods such as exploratory testing, regression testing, and acceptance testing.

Why is it important to have Test Plans and Test Cases?

As we discussed above, Test plans and test cases are essential components of software testing, and they play a critical role in ensuring the quality and reliability of software products.

Here are some reasons why it is important to have test plans and test cases:

Ensure complete coverage:

Test plans and test cases help to ensure that all the necessary tests are performed to validate the software’s functionality, performance, and security. Without a clear plan and defined test cases, some parts of the software may be left untested, leading to potential defects or bugs.

Improve testing efficiency:

Test plans and test cases provide a clear roadmap for testers, helping them to execute tests efficiently and effectively. Test plans and test cases can be used to prioritize testing efforts and ensure that the most critical functionality is tested first, reducing the risk of defects slipping through the testing process.

Facilitate communication:

Test plans and test cases provide a clear and concise way to communicate testing requirements and expectations to stakeholders, including developers, project managers, and business analysts. They ensure that everyone involved in the testing process is on the same page and working towards the same goals.

Increase confidence in software quality:

A well-designed and executed test plan, along with well-defined test cases, can increase confidence in the quality and reliability of the software. Testing can uncover defects and bugs, and fixing them before release can help to avoid costly and embarrassing problems after deployment.

In short, test plans and test cases are essential for ensuring that software products meet the required quality standards and that they perform as expected under different conditions.

Components of Test Plans and Test Cases?

Here are some common components that are typically included in test plans and test cases:

Test Plan Components:

Introduction:

A brief overview of the software product being tested, including its purpose, features, and objectives of testing.

Scope:

A detailed description of the testing scope, including the features and functionalities to be tested, as well as the testing approach.

Test Environment:

A description of the hardware, software, and network configurations needed to conduct the testing.

Test Strategy:

A high-level description of the testing approach, including the testing methodologies and techniques to be used.

Test Schedule:

A timeline for the testing activities, including milestones, deadlines, and resource allocation.

Risks and Assumptions: 

A list of potential risks and assumptions that may impact the testing process, as well as mitigation strategies.

Test Case Components:

Test Case ID:

A unique identifier for each test case is needed.

Test Case Description:

A detailed description of the test case, including the expected behavior and the specific steps to be taken to execute the test.

Test Data:

The input data required to execute the test, including any boundary conditions or special cases.

Expected Results:

The expected outcome or behavior of the software under test.

Actual Results:

The actual outcome or behavior of the software under test is compared to the expected results.

Pass/Fail Criteria:

A set of criteria that defines whether a test case has passed or failed, based on the actual results.

Test Priority:

The priority of the test case is based on its importance and impact on the overall quality of the software.

These are some of the common components of test plans and test cases. However, the specific components may vary depending on the testing approach, tools, and methodologies being used.

How to create a test plan

In this section, we will give you 14 important things to include in your software test plan as part of the QA process.

1) Get information about the software

It is important to know everything about the software before you start testing. Ask questions about the software’s development to understand its purpose and how it works.

You can understand your software well and create test cases that are useful for testing your product.

2) Define the scope for testing

Defining the scope for testing is an essential part of creating a test plan. The testing scope outlines the specific features, functionalities, and areas of the software that will be tested. It helps to ensure that testing efforts are focused on the most critical parts of the software and that testing activities are comprehensive, efficient, and effective.

3) Create test cases

Creating test cases is another important part of the test plan, and it involves developing a set of detailed steps to be followed during testing. The purpose of creating test cases is to ensure that testing efforts are well-structured, thorough, and efficient.

A test case describes the steps involved in testing. It should contain information such as the test objectives, test scenarios, input data, the expected output, test steps, etc.

4) Develop a test strategy

Developing a test strategy is a key component of creating a test plan as it outlines the overall approach and methodology for testing the software. A test strategy includes a detailed description of the testing process, including the objectives, types of testing, and techniques to be used. It may also include the test environment, test data, and the roles and responsibilities of your team.

5) Define your test objective

Every test case should be tied to a test goal. This objective will ensure that every action is relevant and helps to make your software more valuable to customers.

The test objective outlines what needs to be tested, how it will be tested, and what the expected outcome of the testing process is.

6) Select testing tools

Selecting the appropriate testing tools is an important part of creating a test plan, as it helps to ensure that the testing process is efficient, effective, and comprehensive. There are a variety of testing tools available for different types of testing, such as functional testing, performance testing, security testing, and more.

7) Find bugs early

You should leave time in your plan document for bug-fixing sessions. These sessions allow you to spot problems early before they become costly or too difficult to fix. These problems are easier to fix and more affordable. You can check out the app’s security features and use all of them. Then, you can find out what is not working well.

8) Define your test criteria

Although this should be part of the test case, it is a good idea to separate it. Your objectives are broken down into smaller pieces called test criteria. These criteria provide specific information about each objective, which can help you monitor your progress.

Suspension criteria refer to criteria that must be met before testing can cease. You might want to suspend testing in the event of a set number of bugs being found, or if the software stops running due to performance problems.

Exit criteria are requirements that must be met before testing can conclude. The test case should be completed once all objectives have been met and bugs have been fixed.

9) Resource planning

Resource planning is an important part of creating a test plan as it helps to ensure that the testing process is properly resourced and that you have the necessary skills, tools, and infrastructure to execute the testing process effectively.

Include a resource plan in your software testing document that lists the people needed to complete the testing process. This document should outline the roles of each individual and any training required to do so.

10) Create a plan for your environment

Creating a plan for the testing environment helps to ensure that the testing process is conducted in an appropriate and controlled environment.

To create a plan for the testing environment, you should first identify the testing requirements and the scope of the testing process. This may include determining the types of testing that will be performed, the software and hardware configurations that will be required, and the network infrastructure that will be needed.

Based on these requirements, you should then plan and set up the testing environment, which may involve installing and configuring the necessary software and hardware components, as well as setting up the network infrastructure.

11) Test team logistics

The most important part of implementing is test management. Your testing document will not be as useful if you are unable to communicate effectively with your testers. You should also consider the testing team’s training requirements and ensure that appropriate training and support are in place to enable team members to execute the testing process effectively.

12) Schedule & estimation

Include a schedule in your test plan that outlines specific milestones and deadlines. Milestones could include the release of the product, the public beta test, and any other important points where testing is needed.

13) Test deliverables

A list of all deliverables that are required for testing should be included in your testing document. These deliverables should be linked with the steps in your schedule to ensure everyone is aware of when they are needed.

14) Test automation

You might consider software testing automation if your software is complex or requires many test cases.

Automation allows testers to do more work in a shorter time. This increases productivity and reduces testing costs. To speed up testing, you might be able to use a mobile bot.

Conclusion:

An important part of development project briefing is a solid test plan. The test document must be concise, clear, flexible, and easy to adapt to changes in your environment or schedule. To do this for you effectively, you can Hire Dedicated Software Development Team in Canada.

At OPRIM, we will ensure that everyone from our development team works towards the same goal and that we cater to you the best out of the best service.

Speak to our experts now!