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Unit 11: Test Case Planning

These types of questions might be asked over the course of a typical project. However, initially some
sort of a process needs to be in place that allows you to manage your test cases and track the results of
running them. There are basically four types of systems. They are:
1. In Your Head: You must not consider this, even for the simplest projects, unless you are testing
software for your own personal use and you do not want to track your testing.

2. Paper/Documents: It is possible to develop test cases on paper for very minor projects. Tables and
charts of checklists have proved to be effective. The advantage of maintaining a written
document is that if a written checklist includes a tester's initials or signature indicating that the
tests were run, it serves as an excellent proof in the court-of-law that testing was performed.
3. Spreadsheet: A preferred and practical method of tracking test cases is by using a spreadsheet. A
spreadsheet can provide a quick view of the status of your testing. This is because all details
concerning the test cases are maintained in one place. Spreadsheets are easy to set up and use.
They behave as a good proof of testing. A spreadsheet can be used to effectively track and
manage test suites and test cases.

Figure 11.4 shows an example of a spreadsheet application used to manage test
suites and test cases.

Figure 11.4 A Sample Spreadsheet

Source: Ron Patton, Software Testing, Second Edition, Sams Publishing
4. Custom Database: The best way to track test cases is to use a Test Case Management Tool. It is a
database, programmed specifically to handle test cases. There are many commercially available
applications that can be set up to perform just this task. If you want to create your own tracking
system, then database software like FileMaker Pro, Microsoft Access, and many others provide
almost drag-and-drop database creation facility. These software allow you to build a database
that is mapped to the IEEE 829 standard in a very short time.

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