The truth about test coverage is that there is never a 100% accurate method to gauge or calculate test coverage. However, using a combination of several metrics and tools, it is possible for a high level of accuracy. The tools and methods chosen would depend on the functionality of the project and the amount of time and resources at the disposal of the testers. All the data would help to provide a relatively stable and high level of test coverage across projects, which in turn would significantly elevate the quality of your product.
Benefits of Test Coverage Measurement
A popular dictum states that what is not measured cannot be improved. Hence, even though 100% accuracy is not possible, measuring test coverage still has several advantages.
- Meticulous measurement of test coverage enables testers to understand the duration of time required to complete project testing
- Test coverage uncovers gaps, which in turn would help testers to script and add newer tests with the aim of elevating the quality of a project
- The statistics that come through from test coverage enables testers to understand which tests perform the same function, thereby helping to eliminate too many tests. This in turn saves time and valuable resources.
How Does an Expert Software Testing Services Company Assess Test Coverage?
There are several methods that apply a variety of tools and metrics to pull together information that would indicate actual test coverage. Several are used only for some types of projects that provide pertinent and concentrated data. There are some methods applicable to any type of project and both manual and automated testing, which help to get the best out of test coverage.
1. Test Coverage by Features The testers prepare a list of all the features available to the project and ensure that the tests to be conducted cover all of them. While this step does not assess the quality of the features, it definitely ensures that all the features are listed and accounted for, such that none are left out.
2. Test Code Coverage This has a slightly elevated level of complexity – white box testing to create conditions through which testers can execute each path or branch or line of code.
3. Test Coverage through Use Case The testers examine the use case document to assess which features would remain part of the system and which ones should be removed. The test case would be based on the steps that would be part of the use case pre and post-conditions. Testers then would check the performance of the system, and any unwanted ‘behaviors’ would help them to create negative test cases. For testers to get the best out of test coverage, all these approaches can either be used in conjunction or independently – depending on the software/system.
In Conclusion
As mentioned, a reputed Software Testing company will honestly tell you that 100% accuracy in measuring test coverage is not possible, irrespective of the tools, metrics, or tests used. There will always be gaps, and collecting large amounts of data is not only time-consuming but would quickly use up a number of precious resources. Most businesses do not have the in-house ability to deal with these issues, and it is feasible and more efficient to partner with experts in this realm and the wider gamut of software testing. We excel at every realm of software testing and would love to help your business succeed – connect with us today.
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