Test Plan Vs Test Strategy
There is great confusion about Test Plan and Test Strategy documents. A different organization has their unique processes and standards to manage these documents. For example, some organization include test strategy facts in Test Plan itself while some organization includes strategy as a subsection within the testing plan. To make it clearer if the Test Plan is some destination then QA Test strategy is a map to reach that destination.
How to prepare a good test strategy document
Every organization has their unique priority and set of rules for software designing, so do not copy any organization blindly. Always ensure that their document is compatible and adds value to your software development before following the template. Test Strategy in STLC:
It defines parameters like
Who will review the document? Who will approve this document? Software Testing activities carried out with timelines
Step#2 Test Approach It defines
Process of testing Testing levels Roles and responsibilities of each team member Types of Testing ( Load testing, Security testing, Performace testing etc.) Testing approach & automation tool if applicable Adding new defects, re-testing, Defect triage, Regression Testing and test sign off
Step#3 Test Environment
Define the number of requirement and setup required for each environment Define backup of test data and restore strategy
Step#4 Testing Tools
Automation and Test management tools needed for test execution Figure out a number of open-source as well as commercial tools required, and determine how many users are supported on it and plan accordingly
Release management plan with appropriate version history that will make sure test execution for all modification in that release
Step#6 Risk Analysis
List all risks that you can estimate Give a clear plan to mitigate the risks also a contingency plan
Step#7 Review and Approvals
All these activities are reviewed and signed off by the business team, project management, development team, etc. Summary of review changes should be traced at the beginning of the document along with an approved date, name, and comment
Download Test Strategy Template
Click below to download sample test strategy document Download the Test Strategy Template Conclusion: In Software Engineering, software release goes through Test Strategy documents from time to time to map the progress of testing in the right direction. When the release date is close many of these activities will be skipped, it is desirable to discuss with team members whether cutting down any particular activity will help for release without any potential risk.
