testplanning

Test planning is the process of defining the scope, approach, resources, and schedule for testing activities to verify and validate a product. It aims to align stakeholders, manage risk, allocate testing resources, and establish clear objectives and criteria for success. A test plan serves as a roadmap that guides what will be tested, how testing will be conducted, and how results will be evaluated.

A typical test plan outlines the testing scope and objectives, the items to be tested, and the testing techniques and levels to be applied (such as unit, integration, system, and acceptance testing). It specifies the test environment, data requirements, tools, and any constraints. Responsibilities, roles, and communication channels are defined, along with a testing schedule and milestones. Entry and exit criteria describe when testing can begin and when it is considered complete. Risk assessment and mitigation strategies are included to prioritize testing efforts.

The test plan is a living document that evolves with the project. It interacts with requirements, design, and development activities and is updated as conditions change. It is commonly created during the planning phase of a software development life cycle and may be supplemented by a higher-level test strategy. Adherence to standards (for example, recognized test documentation guidelines) helps ensure consistency and auditability of the plan. Outputs typically include the plan itself, supporting test design artifacts, and progress reports.