Software Testing Life Cycle

1. Requirement Analysis

Review and analyze functional and non-functional requirements.
Identify testable requirements and clarify any ambiguities with stakeholders.
Assess feasibility for automation and prepare the Requirement Traceability Matrix (RTM).

2. Test Planning

Develop a comprehensive test strategy and plan.
Define scope, objectives, resources, timelines, roles, and responsibilities.
Conduct risk and cost analysis, and select appropriate testing tools.

3. Test Case Development (Test Design)

Design detailed test cases and test scripts (manual and automated).
Prepare test data and ensure coverage of all requirements.
Review and finalize test cases and automation scripts.

4. Test Environment Setup

Configure the necessary hardware, software, and network environments.
Install required tools and perform smoke testing to validate the environment.
Ensure the environment mirrors production as closely as possible.

5. Test Execution

Execute test cases in the prepared environment.
Log results, report defects, and collaborate with developers for bug fixes.
Retest resolved defects and perform regression testing as needed.

6. Test Cycle Closure (Reporting & Analysis)

Analyze test results, prepare test summary and closure reports.
Assess test coverage, defect trends, and overall quality.
Document lessons learned and best practices for future cycles.