Software Testing - Test Plans in Software Testing

1. Definition

A Test Plan is a formal document that describes the scope, approach, resources, schedule, and activities for software testing.

It is created before the testing phase begins.
It acts as a roadmap for the testing process.

2. Purpose

Define what will be tested and how it will be tested.
Ensure all stakeholders understand the testing strategy.
Manage time, resources, and risks effectively.

3. Key Components of a Test Plan

A typical test plan includes:

Test Plan ID – A unique identifier for the document.
Introduction – Overview of the project and testing goals.
Test Items – Features/modules to be tested.
Features Not to be Tested – Out-of-scope areas.
Test Approach/Strategy – Methods (manual, automation, regression, etc.).
Test Environment – Hardware, software, network setup.
Entry & Exit Criteria – When to start and stop testing.
Test Deliverables – Documents and reports to be produced.
Testing Schedule – Timeline and milestones.
Roles & Responsibilities – Who will perform which tasks.
Risks & Mitigation – Possible challenges and solutions.
Approval – Stakeholders who will sign off on the plan.

4. Types of Test Plans

Master Test Plan – High-level plan for the whole project.
Level-Specific Test Plan – For unit, integration, system, or acceptance testing.
Type-Specific Test Plan – For functional, performance, security, or usability testing.

5. Advantages of Having a Test Plan

Provides clear direction for testers.
Improves communication among stakeholders.
Helps in resource allocation.
Serves as a reference document for future projects.

6. Example Scenario

If you’re testing an e-commerce website, your test plan would specify:

Scope: Shopping cart, payment gateway, order tracking.
Out of Scope: Admin panel.
Test Approach: Manual for UI, Automation for regression.
Environment: Chrome, Firefox, and Safari browsers on Windows & macOS.
Entry Criteria: Application build version 1.0 is ready.
Exit Criteria: All high-severity bugs are fixed.