Test Governance

Everything need to be tested before the outcome is deliverable. This idea brings a practice in place, a method which need to be meaningful, efficient, repeatable, adaptable at varied condition & circumstances be in software development, hardware manufacturing, Industrial appliance and their usages. In relation to Software Development “Test governance” refers to the strategic approach and framework used to manage and control software testing activities. It also helps the organization to build capability on Shift-left testing approach for software testing and system testing in which testing is performed earlier in the lifecycle. It is the first half of the maxim “test early and often” within an organization. It ensures that testing processes are aligned with business goals, comply with standards, and are effectively monitored and measured for continuous improvement. Robust “Test Governance” framework require detail planning with clarity & measurement effectively supporting organization’s objectives and deliver high-quality software products.

Here are the key components and considerations of test governance.

Establishing a Test Policy

• Definition: A high-level document outlining the overall testing approach, objectives, and principles.
• Components: Scope, objectives, compliance requirements, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

Creating a Test Strategy

• Definition: A detailed plan that describes how testing will be conducted to meet the objectives set in the test policy.
• Components: Test levels (unit, integration, system, acceptance), test types (functional, non-functional), tools, and methodologies.
• Define the overall approach to testing, considering factors like project goals, risks, and resource constraints.
• A Test Strategy could be high level Architecture including the sub-system indicating project functional Sprint, related to the Releases encompassing components & Test artifacts. (Example below showing the relation with various work item or issue id like 1,2,3,4,……… )

Test Planning

• Definition: Developing detailed test plans for specific projects or releases.
• Components: Scope, test objectives, resources, schedule, deliverables, and risk management.
  • Create a test plan that outlines the scope, objectives, test levels, entry/exit criteria, and resource allocation.
• Interaction from high level requirement say epic to be translated to small functionalities through story and associated with test cases – test scripts span across one or many cycles
• The interaction diagram below helps to understand the coverage on test execution , resultant bugs and triaging during the process of Test Planning.

Test Process Definition

• Definition: Establishing standardized processes and workflows for conducting tests.
• Components: Test case development, test data management, test execution, defect management, and reporting.
• Establish a clear testing process that aligns with the software development lifecycle (e.g., Agile, Waterfall).
• Define roles and responsibilities for test team members.
• Implement test phases (unit testing, integration testing, system testing, etc.) and ensure proper handoffs.
• Use of tools or the combination of tools and its selection are very important here.

Metrics and Reporting

• Definition: Defining metrics to measure the effectiveness and efficiency of the testing process.
• Components: Test coverage, defect density, test execution progress, and test pass/fail rates.
  • Collect relevant metrics (e.g., defect density, test coverage, test execution progress) to assess testing effectiveness.
  • Regularly report on testing status, issues, and risks to stakeholders.

Traceability metrics is an important factor for analysis.

Tool and Environment Management

• Definition: Managing the tools and environments used for testing to ensure consistency and reliability.
• Components: Test automation tools, performance testing tools, test environments, and data management tools.
  • Maintain stable and representative test environments (e.g., development, staging, production-like). The below image indicate the environment declared  Ensure proper configuration and data setup for testing.
• Modern Test Management tools started using generative AI technology which may be a good choice for improving test efficiency

Roles and Responsibilities & Activities

• Definition: Clearly defining roles and responsibilities within the testing process.
• Components: Test manager, test lead, test analyst, test engineer, and automation engineer.
  • Test Automation Governance:
    • Define guidelines for test automation, including tool selection, scripting standards, and maintenance.Monitor and manage automated test suites to ensure reliability and relevance.
  • Risk-Based Testing:
    • Identify and assess testing risks (e.g., critical functionality, complex modules, time constraints).
    • Allocate testing efforts based on risk priorities.

Training and Competency Development

• Definition: Ensuring that the testing team has the necessary skills and knowledge.
• Components: Training programs, certification, and continuous learning opportunities.

Compliance and Standards

• Definition: Ensuring that testing practices comply with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Components: ISO standards, regulatory compliance (e.g., GDPR, SOX), and best practices.
  • Adhere to industry standards (e.g., ISO 29119) and internal policies.
  • Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).

Continuous Improvement

• Definition: Implementing a feedback loop to continuously improve the testing process.
• Components: Post-mortem analysis, process reviews, and incorporating lessons learned.

Benefits of Test Governance

• Consistency and Standardization: Ensures uniformity in testing processes across the organization.
• Risk Mitigation: Identifies and addresses potential risks early in the development lifecycle.
• Quality Assurance: Enhances the overall quality of the software product.
• Efficiency: Streamlines testing processes, leading to faster delivery and cost savings.
• Compliance: Ensures adherence to industry standards and regulatory requirements.

Challenges in Implementing Test Governance

• Resistance to Change: Overcoming resistance from teams used to existing practices.
• Resource Constraints: Limited budget and personnel to implement and maintain governance practices.
• Complexity: Managing the complexity of coordinating across multiple projects and teams.
• Keeping Up with Technology: Adapting governance practices to evolving technology and methodologies.

How DevTools helps in Implementing Test Governance

• DevTools trained workforce identify, analyse, assess  the Organization Test mythology.
• Propose the tools associated with Solution landscape for implementation
• Implement the Process and Governance
• Initiate feedback for improvement