What are the key steps for creating a mobile application test plan?

2 Choose the test strategy

The next step is to choose the test strategy, which is the overall approach and direction of your testing activities. The test strategy should include the types, levels, and techniques of testing that you will use, such as functional testing, integration testing, regression testing, usability testing, and automation testing. The test strategy should also include the tools, frameworks, and resources that you will use to support your testing process, such as test management software, testing devices, test data, and test scripts. Choosing the test strategy can help you plan your testing schedule, budget, and resources effectively and efficiently.

3 Design the test cases

The third step is to design the test cases, which are the specific scenarios and steps that you will use to verify the app's functionality, quality, and user experience. The test cases should include the test objectives, preconditions, inputs, actions, expected outputs, and postconditions for each test scenario. The test cases should also include the priority, severity, and status of each test case, as well as the traceability to the app's requirements and specifications. Designing the test cases can help you cover all the possible scenarios and outcomes of your app and document your testing logic and results clearly and consistently.

4 Execute the test cases

The fourth step is to execute the test cases, which is the actual process of running the tests and observing the app's behavior and output. The execution of the test cases should follow the test strategy and schedule that you have defined, and use the test tools and data that you have prepared. The execution of the test cases should also record the actual results, observations, and screenshots of each test case, as well as any defects, errors, or issues that you encounter. Executing the test cases can help you validate the app's functionality, quality, and user experience and identify any problems or improvements that need to be addressed.

5 Report the test results

The fifth step is to report the test results, which is the process of summarizing and communicating your testing findings and recommendations. The test report should include the test summary, test metrics, test analysis, test conclusions, and test recommendations. The test report should also include the test cases, test results, test screenshots, and defect reports as attachments or links. The test report should be clear, concise, and comprehensive, and highlight the main achievements, challenges, and suggestions of your testing process. Reporting the test results can help you inform and persuade your stakeholders, clients, and users about the app's quality, functionality, and user satisfaction.

6 Review and improve the test plan

The final step is to review and improve the test plan, which is the process of evaluating and enhancing your testing process and outcomes. The review and improvement of the test plan should include the feedback, comments, and ratings from your stakeholders, clients, and users, as well as your own self-assessment and lessons learned. The review and improvement of the test plan should also include the updates, changes, and revisions of your test scope, strategy, cases, tools, and report based on the feedback and findings. Reviewing and improving the test plan can help you optimize your testing process and outcomes and ensure continuous quality improvement of your app.