What is the best way to establish benchmarks for your testing process?

For a program, we need to define what our vision is from functional and non-functional areas. To work on the measurement part of the vision, we need to define or configure different attributes to get the information. Then we need to define a goal that we will target.

Define metrics that are required to provide insight of progress on defined vision. Define calculation mechanism, decide on fields required in tools so reports can be generated online. If some metrics require manual intervention, define a template for all the teams in a program. Metrics for coverage can be traceability, metrics for defects can be defect per sprint and priority wise distribution or status wise distribution and defect density. For test effectiveness, it can be execution %, pass%, automation % and regression effectiveness. Define the goal for each metric to have causal for deviation.

It’s important to draw from credible sources. Having a diverse set of SMEs from the outset can ensure accuracy of benchmarks. Don’t be afraid to continuously evaluate benchmarks to ensure validity and work toward a credible goal.

Check industry standards and historical data of comparable programs. Best practices like shift lift or right should reflect into the improved metrics data.

The best way to establish benchmarks for your testing process is to carefully choose your benchmark sources. Select reliable industry standards, previous project data, or similar products in the market as benchmarks. These sources provide valuable reference points for defining success criteria, setting performance goals, and measuring progress. By leveraging established benchmarks, testers can ensure their testing process aligns with industry best practices and delivers results that meet or exceed expectations.

The best way to establish benchmarks for your testing process is by collecting and analyzing benchmark data systematically. Gather data on key performance indicators, such as test execution time, defect density, and test coverage, from previous testing cycles or industry standards. Analyze this data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. Establish benchmarks based on these insights to set realistic goals and measure progress over time. Regularly review and update benchmarks as the testing process evolves, ensuring continuous improvement and alignment with organizational objectives.

RCA should be provided for deviation from goal in each metric. 5 why analysis and pareto chart can be used to prioritise and identify the causal. Improvement and action plans should be identified with target dates.

Benchmarks should be baselined and then reviewed on a periodic basis based on how they are helping meet end user requirements

Reports should be shared with all the stakeholders to get feedback and to ensure that objectives are aligned. Risks and dependencies should be clearly called out which can deviate the target metrics from its defined goal

CSAT for qa projects and feedback from customers is a good benchmark to know if our quality goals are aligned with business and take necessary action

Key Steps include : a.Define clear evaluation objectives and criteria. b.Understand the user's expectations and industry standards. c.Gather baseline data to use as a reference point. d.Design realistic test scenarios that reflect real world usage. e.Choose measurements that are relevant to your aims. f.Consider scalability while evaluating performance under varied loads. g.Create a controlled test environment that resembles production circumstances. h.Utilize automated testing methods to ensure efficiency. i.Conduct continuous tests to improve benchmarks over time. j.Document and share the benchmarking process and outcomes with stakeholders. k.Implement continuous monitoring to track performance changes and resolve issues as they arise.

The best ways to establish benchmarks for testing processes include: 1. Define Clear Objectives: Clearly define testing goals. 2. Identify Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Determine relevant metrics. 3. Gather Baseline Data: Collect current testing performance metrics. 4. Research Industry Standards: Learn industry benchmarks. 5. Compare Against Peers: Benchmark against similar organizations. 6. Set Realistic Targets: Establish achievable goals. 7. Implement Continuous Improvement: Use benchmarking for ongoing improvement. 8. Document and Communicate Results: Share benchmarking results. 9. Iterate and Refine: Continuously improve benchmarking approach.