How do you document and model solution design?

1 Solution Design Document

A solution design document (SDD) is a comprehensive and detailed document that describes the solution in terms of its scope, objectives, features, functions, specifications, and assumptions. It also includes the solution architecture, which is the high-level overview of the components, interfaces, and interactions of the solution. The SDD should follow a standard template and format that is consistent with the project methodology and stakeholder expectations. The SDD should be reviewed and approved by the project team and the key stakeholders before moving to the next phase of the project.

2 Solution Modeling Techniques

Solution modeling techniques are methods of representing the solution design in a visual or graphical way, utilizing diagrams, symbols, and notations. For example, use case diagrams can demonstrate the interactions between actors and use cases, while activity diagrams illustrate the flow of actions and events within a process. Sequence diagrams depict the order and timing of messages between objects or components, while class diagrams present the structure and relationships of classes or entities. Additionally, entity-relationship diagrams display the structure and relationships of data elements or tables, and user interface mockups show the layout and appearance of user interface screens.

4 Solution Testing Plan

A solution testing plan is a document that defines the scope, approach, strategy, and schedule of testing the solution design. It also identifies the test cases, test scenarios, test data, test environment, test tools, test roles, and test metrics. The solution testing plan should align with the project objectives, requirements, and quality standards. The solution testing plan should be reviewed and approved by the project team and the key stakeholders before executing the testing activities.

5 Solution Testing Techniques

Solution testing techniques are methods of verifying and validating the solution design against the business requirements and the solution specifications. Unit testing tests individual units or components of the solution, such as classes, methods, or functions, using code or scripts. Integration testing examines the interactions and interfaces between the units or components of the solution, using test drivers or stubs. System testing evaluates the functionality and performance of the solution as a whole, using test cases and scenarios. User acceptance testing assesses the usability and suitability of the solution from an end-user perspective, utilizing test scripts and feedback.

6 Solution Testing Tools

Solution testing tools are software applications that enable you to perform, automate, and manage solution testing activities with a variety of techniques and methods. For instance, unit testing tools, such as JUnit, TestNG, and NUnit, support the creation and execution of unit tests. Integration testing tools, like SoapUI, Postman, and RESTful API, help with integration tests. System testing tools like Selenium, LoadRunner, and JMeter aid in system tests. And user acceptance testing tools like UserTesting, UsabilityHub, and SurveyMonkey can be used for user acceptance tests.