How can you ensure testing includes the appropriate level of risk analysis?

1 Define your risk criteria

The first step to ensure testing includes the appropriate level of risk analysis is to define your risk criteria, which are the factors that determine how risky a defect is for your software. Some common risk criteria are the likelihood of occurrence, the severity of impact, the visibility to users, and the complexity of resolution. You can use a scale, such as low, medium, or high, to assign values to each risk criterion. Then, you can use a formula, such as multiplying the likelihood and severity, to calculate the overall risk level for each defect.

2 Identify and classify your risks

The next step is to identify and classify your risks, which are the potential defects that could affect your software. You can use various techniques to identify risks, such as brainstorming, reviewing requirements, analyzing feedback, and conducting exploratory testing. Once you have identified the risks, you can classify them according to your risk criteria and assign them a risk level. You can use a matrix, such as a risk matrix or a risk register, to document and visualize your risks and their levels.

3 Plan your testing strategy

The third step is to plan your testing strategy, which is the approach you will take to test your software and mitigate your risks. Your testing strategy should be based on your risk levels, so that you can allocate more time, effort, and resources to the high-risk defects, and less to the low-risk ones. You can use various tools and methods to plan your testing strategy, such as test cases, test scenarios, test plans, test suites, and test cycles. You should also consider the test coverage, test techniques, test environment, and test data that you will need for your testing.

4 Execute and monitor your testing activities

The fourth step is to execute and monitor your testing activities, which are the actions you will perform to test your software and detect your defects. You should follow your testing strategy and prioritize the high-risk defects, while also checking for any new or emerging risks. You should use various tools and metrics to execute and monitor your testing activities, such as test automation, test management, test reporting, and defect tracking. You should also communicate and collaborate with your stakeholders, such as developers, managers, and customers, to share your testing results and feedback.

5 Review and update your risk analysis

The final step is to review and update your risk analysis, which is the process of evaluating and adjusting your risk criteria, risks, and testing strategy based on your testing outcomes and changes in your software. You should review and update your risk analysis regularly, such as after each test cycle, release, or iteration, to ensure that your testing includes the appropriate level of risk analysis. You should use various tools and techniques to review and update your risk analysis, such as lessons learned, risk audits, risk reviews, and risk re-assessment.

6 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?