Testing Phases¶
BGSTM defines six core phases that structure the software testing process from initial planning through final reporting. Each phase builds upon the previous one, creating a comprehensive testing workflow.
The Six Phases¶
Phase 1: Test Planning¶
Define scope, strategy, resources, and timelines
The foundational phase where the testing strategy, scope, objectives, and resources are defined. This phase sets the direction for all subsequent testing activities.
Key Activities: Test scope definition, resource planning, risk assessment, schedule creation
Phase 2: Test Case Development¶
Design and document test scenarios and cases
Design and document detailed test scenarios, test cases, and test scripts that will validate the software application.
Key Activities: Requirements analysis, test design, test case documentation, traceability mapping
Phase 3: Test Environment Preparation¶
Set up infrastructure and tools
Set up the hardware, software, network, and infrastructure components required to execute test cases in production-like conditions.
Key Activities: Environment setup, tool configuration, test data preparation, validation
Phase 4: Test Execution¶
Execute tests and manage defects
Execute test cases, identify and log defects, compare actual results against expected results, and manage the defect lifecycle.
Key Activities: Test execution, defect logging, retesting, regression testing, progress tracking
Phase 5: Test Results Analysis¶
Analyze outcomes and identify patterns
Examine test execution outcomes, analyze defect trends, evaluate test coverage, and derive insights to improve software quality.
Key Activities: Metrics collection, defect analysis, coverage analysis, quality assessment
Phase 6: Test Results Reporting¶
Communicate findings to stakeholders
Communicate test findings, analysis, and recommendations to stakeholders through comprehensive reports and presentations.
Key Activities: Report generation, stakeholder communication, sign-off, lessons learned
Phase Workflow¶
graph LR
A[Phase 1:<br>Test Planning] --> B[Phase 2:<br>Test Case Development]
B --> C[Phase 3:<br>Test Environment<br>Preparation]
C --> D[Phase 4:<br>Test Execution]
D --> E[Phase 5:<br>Test Results Analysis]
E --> F[Phase 6:<br>Test Results Reporting]
D -.Iterative.-> D
E -.Feedback.-> D
Methodology Adaptations¶
Each phase can be adapted to your specific methodology:
- Agile/Scrum: Phases occur within each sprint/iteration
- Waterfall: Phases occur sequentially at defined project stages
- Hybrid: Mix and match based on project needs