Test Plan Example

Question

I was asked this question during an interview: I want you to prepare for testing a project. How do you do that.

Answer

There is no single correct answer for this question. This is a general question, my answer might be of a general nature as well

1. Testing never begin unless the following conditions are ready: We should start testing as soon as test data is ready, build is available and test environment is ready
2. Assuming point (1) above is ready then it is not enough to start testing. There should be some kind of test plan that governs and guides the testing process. A document that describes the scope, approach, resources, and schedule of intended testing activities. It identifies test items, roles and responsibilities and any risks
3. Assuming (1) and (2) are ready still there should be something else there. The QA lead should have some kind of test strategy which is a document that describes the test efforts, test configuration, testing tools, test environments, exit criteria and entry criteria for testing, what different types of testing will be carried out
4. Assuming everything is ready, then you just execute, report and track bugs and activities

By indicating (1), (2) and (3) I am talking about companies that follow the traditional water flow software development cycle where planning and documentation is of great importance. On the other hand companies employing Agile methodologies might do that in a different way for example continuous testing through automation and the replacement of documentation with collaboration, etc.