16 July 2024 Leave a comment QA
Testing a new application can be a challenging task, especially when the expectations of senior management do not align with the realities of the testing process. If your team is being questioned about their competence due to uneven bug discovery rates, it is crucial to present the situation clearly and manage expectations effectively.
Understanding the Data
The first step is to analyze the data you have collected. If you found around 26 bugs in the last half of May and approximately 27 bugs in the first half of June, you might project finding about 40 bugs in June. This projection is based on the assumption that the bug discovery rate remains consistent.
Creating a Visual Representation
To communicate this information effectively, consider plotting the data in a bar graph using your favorite spreadsheet application. This visual representation can help illustrate the trend over time, making it easier for senior management to understand the bug discovery process.
Explaining the Variations
It is essential to explain that the variations in the number of bugs discovered are normal and expected. Factors such as the complexity of bugs, the areas of the application being tested, and the methodology used can all impact bug discovery rates. For instance:
- Methodology: Different testing techniques, such as fuzzing, can result in random variations.
- Changes in Software: New bugs can be introduced when the software is modified, increasing the number of bugs found in subsequent tests.
- Bug Complexity: Some bugs take longer to identify and report correctly, especially if they are complex.
Communicating to Senior Management
When communicating with senior management, emphasize the following points:
- Small Data Set: Highlight that the current data set is too small to draw significant conclusions. More time and data are needed to identify trends.
- Extension of Testing Period: Advocate for an extension of the testing period to at least six months. This will provide a more accurate picture of the bug discovery process.
- Presentation of Results: Schedule a meeting to present the results at the end of the extended testing period. Use this opportunity to justify the benefits received from the testing process.
- Importance of Bug Discovery: Emphasize that bugs exist whether they are recorded or not, and unreported bugs pose significant risks to the project.
Conclusion
By providing a detailed explanation and visual representation of your data, you can help senior management understand the realities of the bug discovery process and the importance of continued testing.
Enhancing Testing Efficiency with Repeato
If you are looking to streamline your testing process further, consider using Repeato, a no-code test automation tool for iOS and Android. Repeato allows you to create, run, and maintain automated tests quickly and efficiently. Its computer vision and AI-based approach make it particularly fast to edit and run tests, ensuring that your quality assurance process remains robust and effective.
