How do you plan and prioritize testing activities for different release cycles and scopes?

1 Release cycle types

The first step in testing planning and prioritization is to understand the type of release cycle you are working with. There are different release cycle models, such as waterfall, agile, continuous, or hybrid, and each one has its own implications for testing. For example, waterfall releases typically have longer and more formal testing phases, while agile releases require more frequent and flexible testing iterations. Continuous releases rely on automation and continuous integration and delivery, while hybrid releases combine elements of different models. You should align your testing strategy and methods with the release cycle type, and adjust them as needed.

3 Release risk assessment

The third step in testing planning and prioritization is to assess the risk of the release. The risk refers to the probability and impact of defects, errors, or failures that may occur in the release. The risk can depend on various factors, such as the complexity, novelty, interdependency, or criticality of the release components. You should evaluate and prioritize the risk of the release, and use it to guide your testing efforts. For example, you should focus more on testing the high-risk areas, use more rigorous testing methods, and allocate more time and resources for testing.

4 Release feedback loop

The fourth step in testing planning and prioritization is to establish a feedback loop for the release. The feedback loop refers to the process of collecting, analyzing, and acting on the feedback from different sources, such as developers, testers, customers, users, or metrics. The feedback loop will help you monitor the quality and performance of the release, identify and resolve issues, and improve the testing process. You should create and maintain a feedback loop for the release, and use it to inform your testing decisions. For example, you should use the feedback to adjust the testing scope, methods, or priorities, as well as to validate the testing results and outcomes.

5 Release testing techniques

The fifth step in testing planning and prioritization is to select and apply the appropriate testing techniques for the release. The testing techniques refer to the methods, tools, frameworks, or standards that are used to perform testing activities, such as test design, execution, automation, or reporting. The testing techniques can vary depending on the release cycle, scope, risk, and feedback. You should choose and use the testing techniques that best suit your release context, goals, and constraints. For example, you should use testing techniques that support the release speed, quality, and reliability, as well as the testing efficiency and effectiveness.

6 Release testing evaluation

The sixth and final step in testing planning and prioritization is to evaluate the testing activities and outcomes for the release. The testing evaluation refers to the process of measuring, reviewing, and reporting the testing results, metrics, or indicators, such as test coverage, defect density, test execution time, or customer satisfaction. The testing evaluation will help you assess the quality and reliability of the release, as well as the value and impact of the testing process. You should conduct and communicate the testing evaluation for the release, and use it to learn and improve your testing planning and prioritization skills.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?