What types of testing should be included in a test plan?

In an ideal world, all possible types of testing like unit, functional, performance, integration, regression, etc. should be included. However, the type testing actually included will depend on a number of factors including but not limited to functionality being tested, budget, timeline, environment and bandwidth availability. What is extremely important though is that whatever is decided to be included is documented and reviewed with important stakeholders like product, development and even support/ops. This can be done in a test strategy document which outlines when, where and what is being covered, what is being left out and why. This should be followed by detailed test plans followed by execution and automation.

I believe one of the biggest advantages of unit testing is early bug detection, and the developers who have written the code are gatekeepers here, which makes unit testing effective! By identifying issues at unit level, developers can address them before they escalate into much larger and most costly problem. On other hand well-written unit tests serve as documentation for the code as they provide an insight about what code is supposed to do, which can be extremely helpful for maintenance and future development.

The test plan will include an overview of the test approach, execution strategy, test management, and test strategy. When defining scope, we must include all of the functions and features of a system that need to be tested as well as any features and combinations that will not be tested, along with an explanation of why. The various testing levels—unit, functional, user acceptability, regression, stress, load, performance, compatibility, conformance, automation, and so forth—must be identified in the testing strategy.

Testing is an essential aspect of construction Projects to ensure that installed systems and structures meet requirements and standards. Depending on the scope and nature of a project, the test plan and method may vary. Here are some important testing types: Materials for specifications and standards Geotechnical for soil and foundation Structural integrity and performance Concrete for quality and strength Asphalt & Pavement for quality and durability of road Waterproofing to ensure materials and systems work HVAC & Plumbing system to ensure system integrity and functioning Electrical to ensure system safety and functionality Fire safety to ensure systems standards Env. to evaluate environmental impact Occupancy to ensure building safety

Unit testing is vital in software development, verifying the accuracy of isolated code units. This automated process, often focusing on functions or methods, employs controlled environments and white-box testing. Its objective is early defect detection, crucial in continuous integration, ensuring the reliability and maintainability of the software. Few mile stone need to achieve. 1. Unit Testing: Overview. 2. Scope of Unit Testing 3. Automation in Unit Testing 4. Isolation of Units 5. White Box Testing Approach 6. Objective of Unit Testing 7. Early Detection of Defects

Integration testing is a critical phase in software testing that validates the interaction and collaboration between various components or units of code within the system. Effective integration testing involves designing comprehensive test scenarios that cover different integration points and potential edge cases. Automating integration tests facilitates frequent execution and allows for early detection of integration issues, ensuring faster feedback to development teams. Incorporating integration testing within a continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD) pipeline enhances the software delivery process, minimizing integration-related defects.

Integration testing serves as a crucial phase in software development, evaluating the collaboration between individual code units. Conducted post-unit testing, it employs tools to mimic component interactions, aiming to unveil and address compatibility and coordination issues. This process is essential for verifying that the software aligns with both functional and non-functional requirements, enhancing overall system reliability.

Post-unit testing employing cutting-edge tools to simulate component dynamics ensures flawless interactions and resolves compatibility challenges. Prioritizing the alignment of software elements, this practice addresses issues related to communication and coordination, affirming compliance with functional and non-functional requirements.

It helps identify issues in the interactions between integrated components and ensures the proper functioning of the entire system.

Integration testing test the interfaces between the units. The focus is to test the interactions to other integrated units/components/interfaces

System testing serves as a crucial phase in software testing, aimed at evaluating the overall behavior and functionality of the entire software system. Incorporating system testing into a test plan entails examining the software in its entirety, focusing on its performance, reliability, security, usability, and interoperability. System testing involves rigorous testing under conditions that mimic the actual deployment environment, allowing testers to assess how the software performs in real-world scenarios.

The test plan covers different aspects such as approach, resources, scope, resources, systems, risks, and constraints. We must mention at a high level or in detail who and when some of the test levels will be performed. These 3 levels must be well-defined or identified as part of the plan: Functional Testing - completely new test cases defined and identified to cover the approach. System Integration - It can be performed by the same team or passed to the next level team Regression Testing - Mentioned the Regression identified or Test set identified. The other levels should be mentioned at a high level depending on the scope if it will be covered or not: ex. Stress, load, automation, etc., and the Acceptance Test are part of each ticket.

It ensures that the entire system meets specified requirements and behaves as expected in different environments and scenarios.

Testing the behavior of the whole system as per the defined scope is known as system testing. In system testing we should investigate the function and non functional aspects of software

System testing serves as the linchpin in upholding software integrity, a critical phase that I believe adds an indispensable layer of assurance. Conducted by independent testers, this meticulous evaluation using advanced tools mirrors real-world scenarios. From performance to security, every facet undergoes scrutiny, aligning with our expectations. System testing is the ultimate confirmation that our software seamlessly integrates with diverse systems and platforms, fostering a culture of unwavering quality.

From a past experience rolling out a new system, I would add the importance of 'load testing' to acceptance testing. An entire solution may perform one transaction from one user seamlessly, but when tasked to perform multiple transactions from many users at the same time, can slow down to unacceptable performance speeds.

Acceptance testing stands as a pivotal phase, focusing on validating the software's alignment with end-users expectations and business requirements. Typically conducted after system testing, acceptance testing involves end-users or stakeholders assessing the software's functionality and suitability for its intended use. Acceptance testing evaluates the software in a real-world context, simulating actual usage scenarios and user interactions. Moreover, acceptance testing should encompass comprehensive test scenarios that cover various user workflows, edge cases, and potential scenarios. Documentation and reporting play a crucial role in acceptance testing that aids in understanding the testing process.

Acceptance testing is conducted to ensure that the software meets the acceptance criteria and satisfies the business requirements. It validates whether the software is ready for release and meets the expectations of end-users and stakeholders.

Acceptance testing is performed to verify that the software aligns with the specified acceptance criteria and fulfills the business requirements. This process confirms whether the software is prepared for release and successfully meets the anticipated standards of end-users and stakeholders.

Emphasizing the pivotal role of Acceptance Testing in our software journey, where end-users and clients shape the final verdict. Conducted post-system testing with tools mirroring real-world usage, it ensures our software surpasses expectations, not just meeting but exceeding needs. Acceptance Testing is the critical juncture where we validate functionality, ensure quality, and confirm suitability for the intended purpose. It's not just a process, it's a conduit for invaluable stakeholder feedback and vital approvals.

Regression testing is a critical component of software testing, focused on verifying that recent modifications or additions to the software haven't adversely affected existing functionalities. The primary objective of regression testing is to identify and rectify any unintended side effects arising from changes made in the software. It's pivotal in preserving the software's quality and stability by ensuring that previously tested functionalities continue to perform as expected. Regression testing should encompass both functional and non-functional aspects, including edge cases and scenarios that could potentially be impacted by recent changes. Establishing a regression testing strategy enhances the software's overall performance

Regression testing without automation is probably the worst choice one can make. It's because at some point of time the effort required for regression would be so high that testers will eventually stop doing full regression. They will only Re-Test and approve the very dangerous build. If the investment looks high to set framework or automation engineers. Then one should opt for scriptless automation tools which require just 1 day setup and even manual testers can automate the regression suite. In environments where code changes are frequent, regression testing is crucial for continuous integration practices as well. As a closure, regression testing helps maintain stability of application hence a Must to be included in the Test Plan.

Regression testing verifies that new changes or updates to the software do not adversely affect existing functionalities. It helps ensure that bug fixes, enhancements, or updates do not introduce new issues or regressions.

Highlighting the significance of Regression Testing in our software journey-a safeguard ensuring that every change or modification doesn't compromise existing functionality. Post bug fixes or updates, automated tools become our allies, seamlessly executing test cases. In my opinion, Regression Testing is not just a checkpoint; it's the shield against unintended consequences, preserving software quality and stability.

Regression testing play major and Important role in testing. Regression cover all previous executed tests with recent changes in apppication. Along with this we can include new area in regression plan for validating new changes in application.

é incrível como o teste exploratório vira uma pe?a fundamental nos testes caso ele seja aplicado no contexto correto, por isso, devemos nos atentar que o teste exploratório deve ser feito aliado a um plano de teste bem planejado. O papel de do teste exploratório é preencher lacunas que o roteiro do plano de teste n?o preenche, usando muito da criatividade e da habilidade de "se colocar no lugar do cliente", buscando fluxos alternativos e inesperados nas features avaliadas, agregando mais valor e achando bugs que normalmente n?o iriamos achar nos planos de teste. Esta abordagem todavia n?o substitui as outras formas teste e SIM é um complemento quase que ESSENCIAL quando se fala em processo e entrega de qualidade em sistemas.

Exploratory testing represents a dynamic approach to software testing where the exploration process takes precedence over predefined plans or scripts. In this method, testers leverage creativity, intuition, and experience to delve into a software system, seeking potential issues or opportunities for improvement. Typically undertaken by testers possessing a deep understanding of the software domain and context, exploratory testing relies on tools and frameworks that facilitate thorough documentation and reporting of findings.

Exploratory is a dynamic approach to testing beyond the testing plan scope. tester will use creativity, intuition, and based from experience to execute different possible scenarios, seeking potential unexpected issues or unidentified little things for improvement.

Exploratory testing helps to discover errors that cannot be found by other types of testing. It helps to make the testers put themselves in the customer's perspective to uncover errors in the application, such as application working in low network areas, etc. It helps to uncover errors using different strategies by the testers. The test plan will be more effective when such strategies are included.

Exploratory testing uncovers unexpected defects and issues that traditional scripted testing might miss. It leverages the tester's domain knowledge, intuition, and creativity to dynamically explore the software, making it particularly effective in scenarios with evolving requirements or ambiguous specifications. Exploratory testing helps identify usability issues, corner cases, and potential risks, offering a more flexible and adaptive approach to testing that complements scripted methods. By encouraging exploration and adaptability, it enhances test coverage and ultimately improves the overall quality of the software.

Assess the accuracy and completeness of documentation, including user manuals, release notes, and technical documentation. Documentation testing ensures that users and developers have the necessary information.

Performance Testing: Evaluates the system's responsiveness, scalability, and stability under various load conditions. Performance testing helps ensure that the software application responds quickly and efficiently under different scenarios and loads. This is critical for providing a positive user experience. Exploratory Testing: Involves unscripted testing to discover defects, leveraging testers' domain knowledge and creativity.

In my experience, one of the most important testing type is Non-Functional Testing which includes majorly Performance and Security test. In every era, people will prefer websites or any application to be fast and secure. So, this testing would be a must-go in a test plan.

One of the most important and quite often overlooked is a rigorous usability test regime. Testing should be conducted with a broad demographic and closely monitored - including reactions of test subjects

How will you know that in advance without considering the project and its ecosystem? It may require most types of testing types which are known to us, or it may be limited also. Like A dataverse project is different from a typical e-commerce website. Otherwise, why project require a separate dedicated test plan? They could just derive from each other.