A “test procedure specification” is a document that outlines the specific steps and instructions for executing a test case or test script during the software testing process. It provides detailed guidance on how to conduct the testing, including the necessary inputs, expected outcomes, and any conditions or criteria that must be met for the test to be considered successful.
Here are the key components typically found in a test procedure specification:
- Test Case Identifier: A unique identifier or name for the test case, which helps in tracking and referencing it.
- Test Objective: A clear statement of the test’s purpose and what it aims to achieve or verify.
- Test Environment: Information about the testing environment, including the configuration of hardware, software, and network components that should be in place for the test.
- Preconditions: Any specific conditions or prerequisites that must be satisfied before the test can be executed.
- Test Data: Details on the input data or parameters that should be used for the test, which may include sample data, test data files, or database records.
- Test Steps: A step-by-step sequence of actions or instructions that the tester should follow to execute the test. This includes interactions with the software or system under test.
- Expected Results: The anticipated outcomes, responses, or behaviors that the software should exhibit when the test is executed successfully.
- Criteria for Pass/Fail: Clear criteria that specify how to determine whether the test case has passed or failed. This may include a comparison of actual results with expected results.
- Test Execution Procedure: Additional details on the execution process, including any specific settings or configurations to be used during the test.
- Cleanup or Post-Test Actions: Steps to be taken after the test is executed, such as data cleanup or restoring the system to its original state.
- Dependencies: Any dependencies or relationships with other test cases or components, including any sequence or order requirements.
- References: Links or references to related documents, such as the test plan, requirements, or design specifications.
A well-documented test procedure specification provides clarity and guidance to the testing team, ensuring that the test is performed consistently and systematically. It also serves as a reference for future testing activities and is a valuable resource for quality assurance and reporting.
Test procedure specifications are often created in conjunction with the development of test cases, which outline the specific test scenarios and conditions to be tested, and they are a critical component of the overall software testing documentation.