STLC – Software Testing Life Cycle Phases & Entry, Exit Criteria
Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) is a systematic approach
to software testing that ensures the quality, reliability, and effectiveness of
software applications. It involves a series of phases, from requirement
analysis to test closure, which are performed in a sequential manner to achieve
comprehensive test coverage. STLC helps in identifying defects, validating
functionality, and ensuring that the software meets the desired quality
standards.
2. Phases of Software Testing Life Cycle
The following are the key phases of Software Testing Life
Cycle (STLC):
a. Requirement Analysis and Planning
In this phase, the testing team analyzes the requirements,
specifications, and scope of the software application. The objectives of this
phase include understanding the project goals, identifying the testing scope,
and defining the test strategy and approach. The entry criteria for this phase
include the availability of the requirements and specifications documents,
while the exit criteria involve the approval of the test plan.
b. Test Design
The Test Design phase involves creating test cases, test
scenarios, and test data based on the requirements and specifications
identified in the previous phase. Test cases are designed to cover different
functionalities, conditions, and scenarios. The entry criteria for this phase
include the availability of the test plan, while the exit criteria involve the
completion of test case design and the review and approval of test cases.
c. Test Execution
In the Test Execution phase, the designed test cases are
executed, and the software is tested against the expected outcomes. Testers
perform functional and non-functional tests, record the results, and report any
defects or issues discovered. The entry criteria for this phase include the
availability of the test cases and test data, while the exit criteria involve
the execution of all planned test cases, the reporting of defects, and the
completion of the test execution cycle.
d. Test Closure
The Test Closure phase marks the end of the testing process.
It involves evaluating the test results, preparing test closure reports, and
conducting a final review of the testing activities. The objective of this
phase is to assess the overall quality of the software and determine whether it
meets the defined acceptance criteria. The entry criteria for this phase
include the completion of test execution, while the exit criteria involve the
preparation of test closure reports, review and approval of the reports, and
the final sign-off.
3. Entry and Exit Criteria in STLC
Entry and exit criteria are essential checkpoints in each
phase of STLC. They ensure that the necessary inputs are available,
prerequisites are met, and the desired outputs are achieved before proceeding
to the next phase. The entry criteria define the conditions that must be met
before starting a particular phase, while the exit criteria define the
conditions that must be met to conclude a phase and move on to the next phase.
For example:
Entry and exit criteria may vary depending on the
organization, project, and specific requirements. They are defined in the test
plan and should be agreed upon by all stakeholders involved in the software
testing process.
4. Conclusion
Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) comprises several phases,
each with its objectives, activities, and deliverables. By following a
systematic approach to testing, organizations can ensure the quality,
reliability, and effectiveness of their software applications. Entry and exit
criteria play a vital role in ensuring that the necessary prerequisites are met
before starting or concluding a testing phase. Adhering to the defined entry
and exit criteria helps in achieving a smooth and efficient testing process,
leading to the development of high-quality software products.
There are generally four recognized phases of the software testing life cycle: planning and control analysis and design implementation and execution and closure. Each stage is important in its own right but the key to a successful testing program is to ensure that adequate time and resources are allocated to each stage. In the first stage planning and control are crucial to setting the tone for the entire project. It's important to establish realistic goals and objectives for the testing effort as well as clear lines of responsibility and communication. This phase also includes identifying any risks that could impact the project such as changes in technology or personnel. The second stage of analysis and design is where the real work of testing begins. In this phase, testers analyze the requirements for the project and design test cases that will exercise all aspects of the system. It's important to remember that not all tests need to be automated; sometimes manual testing can be more effective.
The third stage is implementation and execution
The software testing life cycle is the process that software testing follows to ensure that newly developed software meets all requirements and does not contain any bugs.
The cycle begins with the planning stage in which testers determine what needs to be tested and how it will be done. This is followed by the development stage in which tests are created and run. After the tests have been run results are analyzed to determine whether the software meets all requirements. Finally, the cycle ends with reporting in which testers report their findings to stakeholders.
The software testing life cycle is the process followed to test an application or system. It involves the following steps:
1. Planning and Requirements: In this phase, the objectives of the testing process are defined and a test plan is created.
2 Design: In this phase test cases are designed based on the requirements and objectives defined in the previous stage.
3 Execution: In this stage, the actual testing is carried out according to the plan and test cases designed in the previous stage.
4 Reporting and Documentation: In this final stage results of the testing process are documented and reported.