Software Testing - Test Plan Template

Here’s a clear and practical test plan template you can adapt for your projects.
It follows the IEEE 829 structure but keeps things straightforward.

Test Plan Template

1. Test Plan ID
A unique identifier (e.g., TP-ProjectName-Version).

2. Introduction
Brief overview of the system/product and the purpose of testing.

3. Objectives
Main goals of testing (e.g., validate functionality, ensure performance meets requirements).

4. Scope

  • In Scope – Features/modules that will be tested.

  • Out of Scope – Features/modules that won’t be tested.

5. Test Items
List of specific features, components, or requirements to be tested.

6. Test Strategy

  • Testing levels (unit, integration, system, acceptance).

  • Testing types (functional, performance, security, usability, etc.).

  • Approach (manual, automated, exploratory, etc.).

7. Test Environment

  • Hardware requirements.

  • Software requirements (OS, browsers, databases, etc.).

  • Test data setup.

  • Network configurations.

8. Test Deliverables

  • Test cases

  • Test scripts

  • Test data

  • Test execution logs

  • Defect reports

  • Test summary report

9. Entry Criteria
Conditions that must be met before testing begins (e.g., code complete, environment ready).

10. Exit Criteria
Conditions for stopping testing (e.g., all critical defects resolved, coverage achieved).

11. Schedule & Milestones
Timeline with major testing activities and deadlines.

12. Roles & Responsibilities
Who will perform each testing activity.

13. Resources & Tools
Testing team, automation tools, licenses, hardware/software resources.

14. Risks & Contingencies
Potential risks (e.g., environment delays, lack of test data) and backup plans.

15. Approvals
Names and signatures of stakeholders approving the plan.

 

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