How do you evaluate and document the test results and the lessons learned?

1 Define the evaluation criteria

Before evaluating the test results, you need to define criteria that will measure the effectiveness and efficiency of the testing activities. This may include test coverage, which shows how much of the software is tested, defect density which indicates the number of defects per unit of code or test case, defect severity which classifies the effects on software quality and usability, defect resolution which tracks how quickly and accurately the defects are fixed, test execution time which reflects how long it takes to run tests and report results, and test cost which estimates resources and expenses.

2 Analyze the test results

Once you have the test results and the evaluation criteria, you need to analyze them to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the software and the testing process. To do this, you can use various tools and techniques, such as test reports that summarize the test outcomes, test metrics that quantify the test performance and quality, test charts and graphs that visualize the data and trends, test logs that record the test actions and events, and test reviews that involve checking and verifying the artifacts and results.

3 Communicate the test results

After analyzing the test results, you should communicate them to the relevant stakeholders, such as developers, managers, clients, and users. Tailor your communication style and format to meet the needs of each stakeholder group. You can use various methods and channels to communicate the test results, including test summary reports that provide an overview of the objectives, scope, status, and outcomes; test defect reports that detail the defects found, their severity, priority, and resolution; test presentations that showcase highlights, challenges, and recommendations; test meetings to discuss feedback on the results and issues; and test emails to inform and update stakeholders on progress.

4 Document the test results

Besides communicating the test results, you also need to document them for future reference and improvement. To do this, you should store and organize the test results and artifacts in a secure and accessible location, such as a test management tool, a document repository, or a cloud service. It’s important to follow best practices when documenting the test results, such as using a consistent and clear naming convention, including relevant and accurate information and data, utilizing templates and standards to format and structure the documents, updating and revising them as needed, and archiving and backing them up regularly.

5 Learn from the test results

Evaluating and documenting the test results is essential to learn from them and use them to improve the software and the testing process. To do so, it’s important to identify and document the lessons learned from the testing activities, including what went well and what didn’t in the testing process, the root causes and effects of any defects or issues found, best practices and techniques used, gaps and risks in the testing process, and suggestions and recommendations for improvement.

6 Apply the lessons learned

The final step of evaluating and documenting the test results is to apply the lessons learned to the next testing cycle or project. This will help to enhance the software quality and functionality by fixing defects and implementing feedback, as well as optimizing the testing process. Additionally, it can reduce testing costs and time by eliminating waste and inefficiency, while increasing the testing value and satisfaction by meeting or exceeding stakeholder expectations and requirements.

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?