A test plan outlines the what, when, how, who, and other significant data in a software testing project. In general, it includes the objective and scope of the tests to be run. A test plan does not include the tests themselves – those are called test cases. Let us find out the importance of test plans in software testing.
What is a Test Plan
The first step in the STLC is test planning. In other words, the creating of a test plan is the beginning of the software testing process. Test plans must be carefully designed and updated. Hence, ensuring that the testing process will cover every area of the project.
A test plan describes all the activities of the testing process. Likewise, other important information related to the testing process. Another importance of test plans is they identify the features to be tested. Likewise, the testing tasks, who will do each job, degree of tester independence, and also the test environment. A test plan also determines the test design techniques, and entry and exit criteria to be used, and the rationale for their choice. It also identifies any risks that need contingency plans. A test plan records all the activities in the testing process.
Test Plan Importance
The use of tests plans increase the accountability and structure of the software test cycle. Because of the test plan, the testing process will be monitored. In other words, the team will know what was tested and what features are working. In addition to this, issues and defects will be identified, too.
Test plans may be high-level or low-level, depending on the needs of the project. However, a test plan is a must in every software project. It makes sure that the website or software performs and functions as it should and as expected.
The availability of a test plan in every software project means that the build progress may be analyzed. Hence, the project might fail when there is no test plan, ready to execute right away.
Types of Test Plans
- Master Test Plan
- Testing Level Specific Test Plans
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- Unit Test Plan
- Integration Test Plan
- System Test Plan
- Acceptance Test Plan
- Testing Type Specific Test Plans
Test Plan Advantages
- A test plan serves as a guide to testing throughout the development.
- We only need to define test points during the testing phase.
- Serves as a valuable record of what testing was done.
- The entire test plan can be used again if regression testing is performed later on.
- The test plan itself could have defects, just like software.
Important Test Plan Facts
- The test plan is responsible for tracking possible tests to be run on the project. This happens after the coding process.
- The test plan has the capability to develop as the project progresses.
- Test plans have the capability to keep tests documented as they happen.
- Test plans are the components of software development that are prone to test errors.
To Wind Up
Test plans serve as a guide for testers in the software testing process. They are helpful in terms of test coverage. Test plans make sure that all the areas of the software application are appropriately tested. Therefore, ensuring that the quality of the software is excellent.