Software testing is a critical aspect of software development that ensures that software applications meet the desired quality standards and satisfy the end-users’ needs. Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) is a structured approach to software testing that defines the testing process and ensures software quality. In this blog, we will discuss the characteristics of STLC, the phases of STLC, and the activities that take place in each phase.
Characteristics of Software Testing Life Cycle(STLC) Life Cycle:
Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) is a well-defined process that is systematic, structured, and comprehensive. The characteristics of STLC are as follows:
1. STLC is a process-driven approach to software testing.
2. STLC is a continuous process that runs parallel to the software development life cycle.
3. STLC is a structured approach that defines the testing process and ensures software quality.
4. STLC is a comprehensive approach that covers all aspects of software testing, including functional testing, performance testing, and security testing.
5. STLC is a team effort that involves the testing team, the development team, and other stakeholders.
Phases of STLC Life Cycle:
Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) consists of the following phases:
1.Requirement Analysis
2.Test Planning
3.Test Case Development
4.Test Environment Setup
5.Test Execution
6.Defect Logging
7.Test Cycle Closure
Let us discuss each of these phases in detail.
1.Requirement Analysis:
The requirement analysis phase is the first phase of STLC, where the testing team interacts with the development team and the customer to understand the software requirements and identify potential risks. In this phase, the testing team analyzes the requirements and creates a test plan that outlines the testing objectives, test scope, test environment, and test strategies.
The activities that take place during the Requirement Analysis stage include:
- Gathering and understanding the software requirements.
- Identifying potential risks.
- Creating a test plan that outlines the testing objectives, test scope, test environment, and test strategies.
2.Test Planning:
The test planning phase is the second phase of STLC, where the testing team defines the testing approach, test schedule, and resource requirements. The test plan is created based on the inputs received from the requirement analysis stage. The test plan also includes details about the types of testing that will be performed, the test deliverables, and the testing tools that will be used.
- The activities that take place during the Test Planning stage include:.Defining the testing approach, test schedule, and resource requirements.
- Creating a test plan that outlines the testing objectives, test scope, test environment, and test strategies.
- Defining the types of testing that will be performed, the test deliverables, and the testing tools that will be used.
3.Test Case Development:
The test case development phase is the third phase of STLC, where the testing team prepares test cases based on the requirements and test plan. The test cases are designed to verify the functionality, performance, and usability of the software product. The test cases are designed in such a way that they cover all possible scenarios and edge cases.
The activities that take place during the Test Case Development stage include:
- Preparing test cases based on the requirements and test plan
- Designing test cases to verify the functionality, performance, and usability of the software product
- Designing test cases to cover all possible scenarios and edge cases
4.Test Environment Setup:
The test environment setup phase is the fourth phase of STLC, where the testing team sets up the test environment to execute the test cases. The test environment should be similar to the production environment to ensure that the testing results are reliable and accurate.
The activities that take place during the Test Environment Setup stage include:
- Setting up the test environment
- Ensuring that the test environment is similar to the production environment
- Installing and configuring the testing tools and software
5.Test Execution:
The test execution phase is the fifth phase of STLC, where the testing team executes the test cases in the test environment. The test results are documented, and defects are logged into the defect tracking system. The test execution phase is the most critical phase of STLC, as it determines the quality of the software product.
The activities that take place during the Test Execution stage of the Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) include:
- Executing the test cases in the test environment
- Documenting the test results
- Logging the defects into the defect tracking system
6.Defect Logging:
The defect logging phase is the sixth phase of STLC, where the testing team logs the defects into the defect tracking system. The defects are categorized based on their severity and priority. The development team then fixes the defects, and the testing team retests the software product to ensure that the defects are resolved.
7.Test Cycle Closure:
The test cycle closure phase is the last phase of STLC, where the testing team reviews the testing process and documents the lessons learned. The testing team also prepares the test closure report, which includes the testing results, defect analysis, and recommendations for improvement.
What is Entry and Exit Criteria in STLC?
Entry and exit criteria are the predefined conditions that must be met before the testing process can start and end. The entry criteria define the conditions that must be met before the testing process can begin, such as the completion of the requirement analysis and the availability of the test environment. The exit criteria define the conditions that must be met before the testing process can end, such as the completion of all test cases and the resolution of all defects.
What is the STLC life cycle in agile?
The Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) is a set of precise steps taken throughout the testing process to guarantee that the software quality goals are attained. Validation and verification are both included in the STLC. Software testing is not only a separate activity, despite what many people think.
What is SDLC vs STLC testing?
Difference among the SDLC and STLC. Software development life cycle, or SDLC, refers primarily to the software development process and encompasses all stages, including testing. In essence, STLC is a software testing procedure with multiple phases that is connected to software testing.
What is STLC interview questions?
What qualifications must one meet to enter a requirements analysis? What tasks are carried out during the requirements analysis phase? What tasks go under test planning? What products are produced during the test planning phase?
Which model is STLC?
THE RIGHT ANSWER IS V MODEL.
Conclusion:
Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) is a structured approach to software testing that ensures software quality and meets the end-users’ needs. STLC consists of seven phases, including requirement analysis, test planning, test case development, test environment setup, test execution, defect logging, and test cycle closure. By following a well-defined STLC process, organizations can improve their software development process, reduce costs, and deliver high-quality software products to their customers.
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