How do you identify defects and their root causes?

1 Test Execution

The first step in identifying defects is to execute test cases or scenarios that cover the functional and non-functional requirements of the software product or system. Test execution can be done manually or automatically, depending on the test strategy and the available tools. During test execution, testers compare the actual results or outcomes of the test cases or scenarios with the expected results or outcomes. If there is a mismatch, a defect is detected and reported.

2 Defect Reporting

The second step in identifying defects is to report them in a clear and concise manner. Defect reporting is the process of documenting the details of a defect, such as the summary, description, severity, priority, status, steps to reproduce, screenshots, logs, and other relevant information. Defect reporting can be done using a defect tracking tool, such as Jira, Bugzilla, or Mantis, or using a spreadsheet, email, or other communication channel. The purpose of defect reporting is to communicate the defect to the developers, stakeholders, and other testers, and to facilitate its resolution.

3 Root Cause Analysis

The third step in identifying defects is to analyze their root causes. Root cause analysis is the process of finding out the underlying factors or reasons that lead to defects, such as design flaws, coding errors, requirement gaps, environmental issues, human errors, or external dependencies. Root cause analysis can be done using various techniques, such as the 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram, Pareto Chart, Fault Tree Analysis, or Cause and Effect Matrix. The purpose of root cause analysis is to understand the nature and origin of defects, and to prevent them from recurring.

4 Defect Prevention

The fourth step in identifying defects is to prevent them from occurring or reoccurring. Defect prevention is the process of implementing corrective and preventive actions based on the root cause analysis, such as fixing the defects, updating the requirements, improving the design, enhancing the code quality, refining the test cases, optimizing the test environment, or training the staff. Defect prevention can be done using various practices, such as code reviews, peer reviews, unit testing, integration testing, regression testing, or continuous testing. The purpose of defect prevention is to reduce the cost and effort of defect detection and resolution, and to improve the quality and reliability of software products and systems.

5 Defect Metrics

The fifth step in identifying defects is to measure and monitor them using defect metrics. Defect metrics are quantitative indicators that provide information about the characteristics and trends of defects, such as the number, severity, priority, status, type, origin, distribution, frequency, or impact of defects. Defect metrics can be collected, calculated, and displayed using various tools, such as dashboards, charts, graphs, or reports. The purpose of defect metrics is to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of the testing process, and to identify the areas of improvement and opportunities for quality enhancement.

6 Defect Feedback

The sixth and final step in identifying defects is to provide and receive feedback on them. Defect feedback is the process of exchanging information and opinions about the defects, their root causes, and their prevention, among the testers, developers, stakeholders, and other parties involved in the software development and testing lifecycle. Defect feedback can be done using various methods, such as meetings, emails, chats, calls, or surveys. The purpose of defect feedback is to improve the communication and collaboration among the team members, and to learn from the defects and their root causes, and to apply the lessons learned to future projects.

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?