Software failures result in reduced financial revenue, deterioration of the companies’ reputation, and customer dissatisfaction. Testing, therefore, has become a key foundation within any software development process. Applying a methodology such as STLC makes it possible for the team to deliver high-quality software in compliance with the set quality standards before being released to the user.

Still, it is possible that while a formal check did not reveal any bugs, something small was unnoticed. In this blog, we’ll discuss these phases in detail and describe their role in making software high-quality. As for the software under discussion, every piece of it is tested separately. This is to ensure that each part of the code functions smoothly as a stand-alone component.

Instead of testers imitating comprehensive performance, automation scripts are developed to perform these tasks. The operation of these scripts can be repeated several times without any human interference. In addition, through third-party reporting tools, which are made available by QA automation testing services, statistics such as the number of tests that passed or failed, steps that were skipped, the environment in which the test runs, the time it was executed, and others can be generated. QA life cycle in software testing extends the coverage of tests and minimizes chances of human error, making it a preferred approach.

What is the Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC)?

So, what is the software testing life cycle? STLC is a structured process that pinpoints the activities to be performed during the testing, thus facilitating the production of quality software. STLC is a part of SDLC, but the primary aim of STLC is to be concerned with testing only. Different tests are created for a reason, and hence, the results will make sense. Another aspect is that specifications are less ambiguous. Thus, it becomes a boon to the whole team.

When implemented, the software testing life cycle phases help teams test the software effectively and ensure that all issues associated with the particular software are recognized and worked on to ensure that the product is released in its best form. To that end, let’s understand what is software testing life cycle is properly. It specifies entry and exit conditions for each phase of the process so that one step is completed before moving on to another step.

So, when you understand the guidelines of an assignment properly, it results in improved coherence as well as efficiency. STLC’s goal is to propose a comprehensive vision of testing coverage and purposes. When using the life cycle model in software testing, teams are able to avoid the loss of pivotal defects and improve the reliability of their software.

The software testing life cycle phases occur soon after the SDLC phases, the software development lifecycle, take place. Following the generation of the code, the team deploys a test environment to confirm the functionality of the software. In particular, developers look at all the necessary conditions and proceed with smoke tests to ensure that the environment is fit for testing. You can use this opportunity to check for any big issues before they get enhanced.

Over time, AI in software testing has started to emerge due to technological developments. AI helps in test automation, which means that aspects like test case generation, bug identification, and performance metrics can be automated. Such a thought-out structure also enhances the quality of the result, as well as reduces time spent on the development of the product.

Importance of Bug Life Cycle in Software Testing

Bugs or defects are inherent in the process of software development; hence the software testing bug life cycle is an important aspect of the software testing process. The defect life cycle in software testing or bug life cycle explains the entire process of a defect from its identification to its final elimination. Knowing and controlling the software testing bug life cycle guarantees defects are correctly identified. I ranked for a solution and addressed it before the software went to production.

The life cycle model in software testing starts at the moment when a particular bug is identified by a tester and reported. Each bug discovered is further diagnosed, allotted to a developer, corrected, and then rechecked. Every bug is assigned a certain status, for example, New, In Progress, Fixed, or Closed, to indicate the process in which the bug is.

How does the software testing bug life cycle help us? If there was no defined pattern of managing the defects, they could fall between the cracks. Lack of these bugs will be costly in the long run once the software is out in the market. Additionally, this will lower the brand’s reputation. Skipping the analysis phase means that the project isn’t going to reach its goals, period, let alone do so in an optimal manner.

In most cases, analysis is not omitted, but it is done in a perfunctory and inadequate manner. This often results in wrong perceptions that may mislead the project direction. This lets the teams guarantee that every known bug will be worked on and fixed before a release.

The idea is that analysis should precede design. It doesn’t always have to be a proper stage, but it is crucial for proper development. For instance, agile approaches may not even use the term “analysis” or “design” in the way that traditional methodologies do. Nevertheless, even in agile, the correct amount of analysis and design is necessary to indicate what code is necessary to do.

Some success Metrics for Each Phase of the bug life cycle in software testing:

• The early detection of faults and their cause.
• Interactions between testers and developers facilitate efficient working.
• Administration of updated status of bugs

Also Read: Software Testing Process Explained: From Planning to Execution

Phases of Software Testing Life Cycle: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Undoubtedly, entry and exit criteria detail when each phase will commence and under which circumstances they should cease. Sometimes, some phases coincide with others, whereas in other cases, one can only start after the completion of the previous phase. Let us, therefore, discuss the types of software testing and get to know the importance of software testing life cycle phases in developing quality software.

Phase 1: Requirement Analysis

The first stage is the Requirement Analysis. During these phases of the software testing life cycle, testers document and compile the software requirements to determine what should be tested. This ensures that both functional and non-functional requirements are taken into account to yield coverage.

➢ Key Activities:

At this stage, the testers identify to determine what sort of test will be required or the various software testing categories like functional, performance, security, usability testing, and so on. Clear understanding in these phases of the software testing life cycle prevents miscommunication. Additionally, it ensures that all essential aspects are tested.

• Analyze functional and non-functional requirements.
• Understand the testable and non-testable requirements.
• Again, consult the stakeholders to clear any obscurity, if there is any.

➢ Success Tips:

Maintain open communication with stakeholders such as developers, business analysts, and project managers to prevent misunderstandings.

Phase 2: Test Planning

In the Test Planning phase, the testing strategy is defined. The testers make a full, detailed test plan. It contains the scope and objectives. Moreover, it includes the timelines and tools required. This phase also includes risk assessment and contingency planning.

➢ Key Activities:

• First, make a comprehensive test plan document.
• What is the responsibility of every individual working on the project?
• Select tools and define the performance testing service required for the project.
• Estimate how much testing effort and resources are required.

➢ Success Tips:

Firstly, a plan for risk management must be formed. Then, take care of all the challenges that could arise during testing, such as resource constraints or timeline delays.

Phase 3: Test Case Design and Development

The next phase is Test Case Design and Development, where detailed test cases are created to cover all possible scenarios. A well-designed test case ensures that all software functions are tested thoroughly. Reusability should be kept in mind while designing test cases, as this can reduce the effort required in future testing cycles. When you do the test case, you will get a step-wise procedure. This is crucial if you want complete coverage on the test.

➢ Key Activities:

• Draft test cases that include the pros as well as the negatives.
• Design test data for different conditions, such as boundary or edge cases.

➢ Success Tips:

So, when you are making a QA life cycle in software testing, make sure it is credible and efficient, too. This ensures that the same test cases can be used during future development phases.

Phase 4: Test Environment Setup

In this phase, the testing environment is prepared. The test environment must look and act similar to the scene of the production. Make sure that the testing results are not something unexpected. To do this, you have to set up the hardware. Then, organize the network. Additionally, install the software that is required for testing.

➢ Key Activities:

• Set up and configure the required environment.
• Install necessary tools and software.
• Validate the environment’s readiness for testing.

➢ Success Tips:

Prepare an alternative strategy in case the environment faces any problems while the testing process is going on.

Phase 5: Test Execution

Once the environment is set up, it’s time to execute the test cases. In the Test Execution phase, first check the test scenarios. Testers can notice if you find any problems.

➢ Key Activities:

• You can start by running the test cases manually. You can also do it using automation tools.
• Log any defects found during testing.
• Re-execute test cases after bugs are fixed.

➢ Success Tips:

Always be transparent in your interactions with the development team. They will provide quick resolutions for critical defects. Prioritize bug life cycle in software testing by ranking issues according to how serious they are and the effect on business operations.

Phase 6: Defect Reporting and Management

In these phases of the software testing life cycle, any defects discovered during test execution are recorded, tracked, and managed through the defect life cycle in software testing. Rectify any defects you find in the software. Defect reports should include all necessary information, such as steps to reproduce, environment details, and screenshots.

➢ Key Activities:

• Log defects in a defect tracking system.
• Prioritize defects based on their severity (e.g., critical, major, minor).
• Collaborate with developers to fix defects in a timely manner.

➢ Success Tips:

Regularly monitor defect statuses and ensure that defects are being resolved before the software is released.

Phase 7: Test Closure

In the Test Closure phase, the testing process is concluded, and the overall effectiveness of testing efforts is evaluated. Testers review test results, analyze test metrics, and prepare a final report.

➢ Key Activities:

• Execute every planned test case.
• Evaluate testing data, such as the coverage and how efficient and effective the test case is.
• Conduct lessons-learned meetings to gather feedback.

➢ Success Tips:

Archive all test artifacts and reports for future reference. The QA life cycle in software testing helps with continuous improvement.

Also Read: Latest Trends in Software Testing You Can’t Ignore in 2024

Best Practices for Life Cycle Model in Software Testing

To maximize the effectiveness of the life cycle model in software testing, there are several software testing best practices to follow.

⟹ Effective communication and collaboration: Maintain open communication across teams—testers, developers, and stakeholders—throughout the testing process to ensure everyone is on the same page. Thus, the task is equally provided to every team member.

⟹ Automation when applicable: Automating repetitive test cases can save time. Implement bug life cycle in software testing for improved efficiency in test case generation, bug tracking, and reporting. Automating code changes helps prevent new issues.

⟹ Regular updates to test cases: This speeds up the release cycle, reduces errors, and ensures consistent software quality. Divide whatever responsibilities you have into small goals by conducting sprint reviews and process assessments.

⟹ Continuous monitoring and reporting: Incorporate continuous security testing throughout the SDLC. Use both manual penetration testing and automated security scans. Use CI/CD pipelines to automate code testing, integration, and deployment.

⟹ Early involvement of testers: Their feedback helps to understand user needs and expectations better. Ongoing engagement refines requirements and ensures the project stays on track.

Protect Your Brand with a Reliable Software Testing Company Today!

In conclusion, the key stages include planning, requirement analysis, test design, execution, defect tracking, reporting, and closure. It helps set realistic goals, allocate resources, and manage risks throughout the project. This approach uses statistical tools to measure and improve software quality. The defect life cycle in software testing helps manage and resolve issues efficiently. Whether you’re testing manually or using automation tools, following a structured approach improves quality.

By following this method, the product’s overall quality improves. It guarantees the software meets the business or end-users’ needs. Looking for answers to ‘What is software testing life cycle?’ Consider hiring a company that follows these phases effectively. When you hire software testers, you invest in better quality assurance and a smoother development process.