What is STLC?
STLC (Software Testing Life Cycle) is a systematic process for testing software to ensure its quality and functionality. It consists of multiple phases, each with specific objectives and deliverables.
1. Requirement Analysis
Objective: Understand the requirements and identify testable conditions.
Activities:
- Analyze software requirements and specifications.
- Identify testable requirements and scenarios.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to clarify ambiguities.
Deliverables:
- Requirement Traceability Matrix (RTM).
- List of testable requirements and scenarios.
2. Test Planning
Objective: Define the strategy, scope, and resources for testing.
Activities:
- Define objectives, scope, and approach for testing.
- Identify resources (team, tools, environments).
- Estimate effort, cost, and timelines.
- Identify risks and mitigation strategies.
Deliverables:
- Test Plan document.
- Resource allocation and schedule.
3. Test Case Development
Objective: Create detailed test cases and prepare test data.
Activities:
- Write test cases based on requirements and scenarios.
- Prepare test data and scripts (if automation is used).
- Review and validate test cases.
Deliverables:
- Test cases and test scripts.
- Test data.
4. Test Environment Setup
Objective: Set up the environment where testing will be executed.
Activities:
- Configure hardware, software, and network settings.
- Set up test tools and frameworks.
- Ensure the environment mimics the production setup.
Deliverables:
- Ready-to-use test environment.
5. Test Execution
Objective: Execute test cases, log defects, and validate fixes.
Activities:
- Execute test cases as per the test plan.
- Log defects and track their status.
- Retest fixed defects and perform regression testing.
Deliverables:
- Test execution report.
- Defect report.
6. Test Cycle Closure
Objective: Evaluate the testing process and document lessons learned.
Activities:
- Analyze test results and metrics (e.g., defect density, test coverage).
- Evaluate if exit criteria are met.
- Document lessons learned and best practices.
Deliverables:
- Test closure report.
- Test metrics and improvement recommendations.
Summary of STLC Phases
| STLC Phase | Key Activities | Deliverables |
| Requirement Analysis | Understand requirements, create RTM | RTM, Requirement Doc |
| Test Planning | Define scope, estimate resources, create strategy | Test Plan, Effort Estimation |
| Test Case Development | Write & review test cases, prepare test data | Test Cases, Test Data |
| Test Environment Setup | Configure hardware, software, tools | Test Environment Report |
| Test Execution | Run test cases, log defects, perform retesting | Test Execution Report, Defect Log |
| Test Closure | Analyze results, document findings, improve process | Test Summary Report |
