How do you estimate software testing time and resources?

1 Understand the testing scope

The first step to estimate software testing time and resources is to understand the testing scope. This means defining what, how, and when you will test your software. You can use various methods and tools to identify and document the testing scope, such as requirements analysis, user stories, test cases, test plans, and test matrices. The testing scope should be aligned with the project goals, the user expectations, and the quality standards.

2 Choose the testing strategy

The next step to estimate software testing time and resources is to choose the testing strategy. This means deciding how you will approach the testing process, such as what types, levels, techniques, and tools you will use. You can use different testing strategies depending on the project context, such as waterfall, agile, exploratory, or risk-based testing. The testing strategy should be based on the testing scope, the project constraints, and the testing objectives.

3 Estimate the testing effort

The third step to estimate software testing time and resources is to estimate the testing effort. This means estimating how much work and time it will take to complete the testing tasks. You can use various methods and formulas to estimate the testing effort, such as expert judgment, analogy, function point analysis, or test point analysis. The testing effort should be realistic, measurable, and verifiable.

4 Estimate the testing resources

The fourth step to estimate software testing time and resources is to estimate the testing resources. This means estimating how many people, skills, tools, and equipment you will need to perform the testing tasks. You can use various factors and criteria to estimate the testing resources, such as test complexity, test coverage, test automation, test environment, and test team size and experience. The testing resources should be sufficient, available, and compatible.

5 Adjust the testing estimates

The fifth step to estimate software testing time and resources is to adjust the testing estimates. This means revising and refining your estimates based on the feedback, changes, and risks that may occur during the testing process. You can use various techniques and tools to adjust the testing estimates, such as contingency planning, buffer time, variance analysis, or earned value management. The testing estimates should be flexible, transparent, and updated.

6 Communicate the testing estimates

The final step to estimate software testing time and resources is to communicate the testing estimates. This means sharing and presenting your estimates to the relevant stakeholders, such as the project manager, the developers, the clients, and the users. You can use various formats and channels to communicate the testing estimates, such as reports, charts, dashboards, or meetings. The testing estimates should be clear, concise, and consistent.

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?