- Sticking to the 100% test case coverage. Need to follow risk-based testing/ exploratory testing.
Although test case coverage and exploratory testing are complementary to each other, sticking to test case coverage wholly can dilute the effectiveness of software testing. Whereas test case-based testing uses a specific condition set to run the software, exploratory testing is highly adaptive.
Exploratory testing allows the test team’s functional involvement in creating a test charter so that specific areas of the software can be explored. Moreover, test case-based testing is only efficient when test cases are replicated, making it difficult to troubleshoot in many generalized contexts. Hence, unlike the test case, exploratory testing is risk-based, drawing attention to high-defect portions that need to be examined.
- Not evolving the traditional STLC and adopting Agile Testing
Agile Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) is emerging as the more competent alternative to the traditional STLC software development packages. The new Agile STLC model follows a non-sequential software development model that prioritizes efficiency and quality. Traditional models such as Spiral, Iterative, V-shaped, or Waterfall models, follow a fixed and inflexible flowchart that necessitates hierarchical stages.
Agile testing enters the picture as an upgrade on traditional STLC testing. Circumventing rigidly defined testing models, it invests more resources into pair testing and unit testing automation. Hence, testing what is ready as and when available instead of waiting for the sequential green signal will prove substantially more productive.
- Need to drop formal communication and adopt cadence-driven communication
The software development process requires the coordination of a number of moving bits and pieces. Fostering a smooth communication flow between the software development team and the software testing team is key to avoiding delays in the development or testing processes.
The traditional practice of raising a ticket on a bug found in the software can restrict the smooth operation of the coordinating parts, and what is necessary is cadence-driven communication instead of technicality-driven communication. Smooth formal communication is essential to the entire software development and testing infrastructure, and adequately communicative written conveyance is often the most effective means of it.
- Not every testing artifact may be important and should opt for leaner, simpler, and project-specific artifacts
Bulky test plans and convoluted to-do lists can end up causing more confusion than they solve. The software testing process requires leaner and simple plans to make it clutter-free and time-saving.
Simplifying the intermediate processes, by letting go of redundant document production like dependency log allows the entire process to shrug off a lot of unnecessary dead weightage. In turn, it speeds up the testing and corrective process. Clear identification of the necessary paperwork, meticulous updating of the status, and continuous monitoring of the output are possible with a leaner project design specialized in heightening efficiency.
Read also 8 Rookie mistakes in software testing that should be avoided.
