Improving the Test Process

4	Analytical-Based Improvement

Analytical approaches are used to identify problem areas in our test processes and set project-specific improvement goals. Achievement of these goals is measured using predefined parameters.

Specifically, we’ll first be looking at causal analysis techniques as a means of identifying the root causes of defects. After describing a framework for determining and analyzing data to be analyzed (the GQM approach), we’ll take a good look at the specific data items that can provide insights into our test process when analyzed.

In addition to the task of test process improvement, project-level problems normally dealt with by the test manager may also benefit from the analytical approaches described in this chapter.

As frequently ...