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Software Testing
Interview Questions
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Software Testing
Interview Questions

By
S. Koirala
&
S. Sheikh

Infinity Science Press LLC

Hingham, Massachusetts
New Delhi
Revision & Reprint Copyright 2008 by Infinity Science Press LLC. All rights reserved.
Original Copyright 2008 by BPB PUBLICATIONS PVT. LTD. All rights reserved.

This publication, portions of it, or any accompanying software may not be reproduced in any way,
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S. Koirala & S. Sheikh, Software Testing Interview Questions

ISBN: 978-1-934015-24-7
ISBN: 978-0-7637-8297-9 (e)
8480
The publisher recognizes and respects all marks used by companies, manufacturers, and developers as
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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
Koirala, Shivprasad.
   Software testing interview questions / Shivprasad Koirala, Sham Sheikh.
     p. cm.
   ISBN 978-1-934015-24-7 (softcover)
1. Electronic data processing–Examinations, questions, etc   2. Computer software–
Testing.   I. Sheikh, Sham.   II. Title.
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What’s on the CD
The CD contains all that you need for software testing:

n  ample resumes which can help you improve your own

S
resume.
n testcomplete512demo setup is a software automation tool. In
the automation chapter we explain this tool. You can get the
latest update for this automated testing tool from http://www.
automatedqa.com/downloads/testcomplete/index.asp
n Estimation TPA sheet.
n Free estimation PDF book.
About this book
n  s the name suggests “Software Testing Interview Questions,”
A
is mainly meant for new testers as well as professionals who
are looking for opportunities in the software testing field.
n Other than software testing basics, this book also covers
software processes and interview questions (i.e., Six Sigma and
CMMI) which are important from SQA point of view. SQA is
a position which every tester eventually wants to reach on a
senior level.
n This book also goes one step farther and covers software
estimation and includes topics such as function points and
TPA analysis.
n Automation testing is one of the most covered sections during
software testing interviews. It is covered in this book using
testing software.
n From a senior level point of view metrics form an important
part of the software testing interviews. A complete chapter is
dedicated to it which covers the most frequently used metrics
such as DRE, spoilage, phage, defect density, and so on.
n During software testing interviews the quality of a tester is
judged by the various testing techniques previously used.
This book has dedicated a complete chapter to complicated
concepts such as Boundary Value Analysis (BVA), equivalence,
exploratory, random/monkey testing, and pair-wise,
orthogonal, and decision tables.
n This book also covers non-technical aspects such as resume
creating, salary negotiations, and points to be remembered
(why do want to leave the organization?, where do you see
yourself in 3 years, and so on) during the process.
n With the book we also have an accompanying CD which has
a test complete software testing tool setup, free software
estimation PDF book, interview rating sheet, and more.
n With the CD we have also provided an interview rating sheet
which can be used to judge for yourself to what extent you are
ready for software testing interviews.
n On the CD we have also provided a sample resume which can
help prepare your resume.
Organizational Hierarchy

It’s very important during the interview to be clear about what position you
are targeting. Depending on the position you are targeting the interviewer
will ask you specific questions. For example, if you are looking for a project
manager testing position you will be asked around 20% technical questions
and 80% management questions.

Figure 1 Organizational hierarchy

viii Organizational Hierarchy

Note: In small software houses and mid-scale software companies there are times
when they expect a program manager to be very technical. But in big software
houses the situation is very different; interviews are conducted according to
position.

Figure 1 shows the general hierarchy across most IT companies.

Note: There are many small and medium software companies which do not
follow this hierarchy and have their own adhoc way of defining positions in the
company.

An employer is looking for a suitable candidate and a candidate is looking for

a better career. Normally in interviews the employer is very clear about what
type of candidate he is looking for. But 90% of the time the candidate is not
clear about the position he is looking for. How many times has it happened
to you that you have given a whole interview and when you mentioned the
position you were looking for you get this answer, “we are not hiring for that
position?” So be clear about the position you are looking for right from the
start of the interview.
There are basically two teams in a software organization: project teams
and quality teams. Project teams are those who execute the project and quality
teams are comprised of testers and SQA. The quality team looks after the
quality part of the project. Director and CTO are on the top of the hierarchy
of the company. The main role of the director is to handle finances; he is
responsible of all happenings in the company. The CTO’s (chief technical
officer) main role is to have a bird’s eye view of technical as well as management
operations in the project. He is closely involved with the director in reporting,
budgeting, and people management across the organization. The program
manager comes below the CTO and is mostly involved in interacting with the
project managers to see to higher level day-to-day operations in every project.
The program manager normally does not interact directly with the developers
or testers (serious scenarios are an exception); he only takes daily reports and
metrics from project managers and monitors the health of the project. Now
 Organizational Hierarchy ix

let’s look at both project and quality team hierarchies. The following are the
number of years of experience according to position for the projects team:

n J unior engineers are especially new and work under software

engineers.
n Software engineers have around 1 to 2 years of experience.
Interviewers expect software engineers to be technically at a
medium level.
n Senior software engineers have around 2 to 4 years of experience.
Interviewers expect them to technically be very strong.
n Project leads handle the majority of technical aspects of the
project and should have around 4 to 8 years of experience.
They are also indirect architects of the project. Interviewers
expect them to be technically strong and in terms of
architecture to be decent. Interviewers also expect them to
have people management skills.
n Project managers are expected to be around 40% technically
strong and should have experience above 10 years. But they
are more interviewed from the aspect of project management,
client interaction, people management, proposal preparation,
etc. So now judge where you stand, and where you want to go.

The quality hierarchy for various reasons comes under the project manager
of the project. Let’s start from the bottom of the hierarchy:

n Junior tester: junior testers normally have 1 to 2 years of

experience or are entry level.Their main task is executing test
procedures prepared by seniors.
n Senior tester: senior testers generally have 2 to 4 years of
experience and are expected to know how to prepare test plans.
They are also aware of various metrics and testing techniques
which help them to communicate project health. But the main
expectation from a senior tester is that he should independently
prepare test plans based on the requirement documents.
n Team lead tester: team lead testers mainly help and guide
the senior testers. They are primarily involved in deciding the
 Resume Preparation Guidelines

testing strategy, what kind of automation tool used, etc. They

also act as a bridge between the project manager and the other
team members.
n Project test manager: the main job of a project test manager
is to collect accurate metrics and report them to the project
manager. He is also responsible for interacting with SQA
to give updates on the quality of the project. They are also
involved in the requirement phase.
n SQA: If you are starting your career as a tester then you would
surely aim to become an SQA leader somewhere down the
line. The main job of SQA is to define the quality standard of
the organization and to ensure that every project follows the
quality process.

Resume Preparation Guidelines

Note: The first impression is the last impression.

TH E C
N
D
O

A sample resume is provided in the “Sample Resume” folder on the CD.

Even before the interviewer meets you he will meet your resume. The
interviewer looking at your resume is 20% of the interview happening without
you even knowing it. With this in mind the following checklist should be
considered:

n  se plain text when you are sending resumes through email.

U
For instance, if you sent your resume using Microsoft Word
and the interviewer is using Linux, he will never be able to
read your resume.
n Attaching a cover letter really impresses and makes you look
traditionally formal. Yes, even if you are sending your CV
through email send a cover letter.
 Resume Preparation Guidelines xi

The following should be included in your resume:

n Start with an objective or summary, for instance:

® Worked as a senior tester for more than 4 years.
Implemented testing automation in projects.
® Followed the industry’s best practices and adhered and

implemented processes, which enhanced the quality of

technical delivery.
® Pledge to deliver the best technical solutions to the industry.

n Specify your core strengths at the start of your resume so the

interviewer can decide quickly if you are eligible for the position.

For example:

n Looked after SQA and testing department independently.

n Played a major role in software testing automation.
n Worked extensively in software testing planning and estimation.
n Well-versed with the CMMI process and followed it
extensively in projects.
n Looking forward to work as an SQA or in a senior manager
position. (This is also a good place to specify your objective
or position, which makes it clear to the interviewer that he
should call you for an interview.)

For instance, if you are looking for a senior position specify it explicitly:
‘looking for a senior position.’ Any kind of certification such as CSTE, etc.,
you should make visible in this section.

n  nce you have specified briefly your goals and what you have
O
done it’s time to specify what type of technology you have
worked with. For instance, BVA, automated QA, processes
(Six Sigma, CMMI), TPA analysis, etc.
n After that you can give a run through of your experience
company-wise, that is, what company you have worked with,
year/month joined and year/month left. This will give an
overview to the interviewer of what type of companies you
have associated yourself with. Now it’s time to mention all the
xii Salary Negotiation

projects you have worked on untill now. It is best to start in

descending order, that is, from your current project backward.

For every project include these things:

n  roject name/client name (It’s sometimes unethical to mention

P
a client’s name; I leave it to the readers.)
n Number of team members.
n Time span of the project.
n Tools, languages, and technology used to complete the project.
n Brief summary of the project. Senior people who have much
experience tend to increase their CV by putting in summaries
for all projects. It is best for them to just put descriptions of
the first three projects in descending order and the rest they
can offer verbally during the interview.
n Finally, include your education and personal details.
n If working in a foreign country, remember your passport
number.
n Your resume should not be more than 4 to 5 pages.
n Do not mention your salary in your CV. You can talk about it
during the interview.
n When you are writing summaries of projects make them
effective by using verbs such as managed a team of
5 members, architected the project from start to finish, etc.
n Make 4 to 5 copies of your resume as you will need them.

Salary Negotiation

Here are some points:

n  hat is the salary trend? Do some research and have some

W
kind of baseline in mind. What is the salary trend based on
number of years of experience? Discuss this with your friends.
n Let the employer first make the salary offer. Try to delay the
salary discussion untill the end.
n If you are asked your expectations come with a figure a little
high and say negotiable. Remember never say negotiable on
 Interview Rating Sheet xiii

a number you have aimed for; HR guys will always bring it

down. Negotiate on AIMED SALARY 1 something extra.
n The normal trend is to look at your current salary and add a
little to it so that they can pull you in. Do your homework and
be firm about what you want.
n Do not be harsh during salary negotiations.
n It’s good to aim high, but at the same time, be realistic.
n Some companies have hidden costs attached to salaries.
Clarify rather than be surprised.
n Many companies add extra performance compensation in your
base salary which can be surprising at times. Ask for a detailed
breakdown.
n Talk with the employer about the frequency of raises.
n Get everything in writing and, look it over with a cool head. Is
the offer worth leaving your current employer?
n Do not forget: once you have the job in hand you can come
back to your current employer for negotiation.
n The best negotiation ground is not the new company where
you are going but the old company which you are leaving. So
once you have an offer in hand get back to your old employer
and show them the offer and then make your next move.
n Remember somethings are worth more than money: JOB
SATISFACTION. So whatever you negotiate, if you think you
can get more, go for it.

Interview Rating Sheet

 n the CD we have provided an interview rating Excel spreadsheet. This

O
sheet will help you by providing insight about how ready you are for software
testing, JAVA, .NET, or SQL server interviews. In the spreadsheet there are
nine sections:
n Guidelines
n JAVA
n JAVA results
n .NET
n .NET results
xiv Interview Rating Sheet

n SQL server
n SQL server results
n Software testing
n Software testing results
The guidelines sheet defines the guidelines for the ratings. For every
question you can give a 1 to 5 rating. Ratings are based on the following
guidelines:
n 0-You have no knowledge of the question.
n 1-You know only the definition.
n 2-You know the concept but don’t have in-depth knowledge of
the subject.
n 3-You know the concept and have partial knowledge of the
concept.
n 4-You know the concept and have in-depth knowledge of the
subject.
n 5- You are an expert in this area.
The remaining eight sections are questions and results. For instance, we
have a software testing section and a software testing results section. The
software testing section will take in the rating inputs for every question and
software testing results will show the output. The same holds true for the
.NET, JAVA, and SQL server sections.

Figure 2 Choose rating

 Interview Rating Sheet xv

For every question you need to select ratings. So go through every

question and see how much you know. You do not have anyone to govern
you but you do have to clear the interview so answer honestly and know your
results beforehand.

Figure 3 Overall rating values

The figure shows how you have performed in every category and your
overall rating.
xvi Common questions asked during interviews

Common questions asked during interviews

n  ne of the first questions asked during an interview is “Can

O
you tell me something about yourself?”
n Can you describe yourself and some of your achievements?
n Why do you want to leave your current company?
n Where do you see yourself in three years?
n How well do you rate yourself in software testing, on a scale of
one to ten?
n Are you looking for onsite opportunities?
n Why have you changed jobs so many times? (Prepare a decent
answer; do not blame companies and individuals).
n Have you worked with software automation?
n What do you know about our company?
n Can you describe the best project you have worked on?
n Do you work on Saturday and Sunday?
n What is the biggest team size you have worked with?
n Can you describe your most recent project?
n How much time will you need to join our organization?
n What certifications do you have?
n What motivates you?
n Which type of job gives you the greatest satisfaction?
n What type of environment are you looking for?
n Do you have experience in software testing project
management?
n Do you like to work on a team or as an individual?
n Describe the best project manager you have worked with.
n Why should I hire you?
n Have you ever been fired or forced to resign?
n Can you explain some important points that you have learned
from your past projects?
n Have you worked on some unsuccessful projects, if yes can
you explain why the project failed?
n Will you be comfortable with location changes?
How to Read This Book
The book provides some legends that will make your reading more effective.
Every question has simple tags which mark the rating of the questions.
These ratings are given by the author and vary according to particular
companies and individuals. The questions all categorized as follows:
(B) Basic Questions: These are fundamental questions and should be
answered. Example: Can you explain unit testing? People stumbling on this
question will rarely pass software testing interviews.
(I) Intermediate Questions: These are mid-level questions and will be expected
to be answered if you are looking for a higher position in the company.
(A) Advanced Questions: These are advanced level questions which are
expected when the interviewer is looking for a specialist in the field.

Note: While reading you will come across “Note” sections which highlight
special points.
Contents
What’s on the CD v
About the Book vi
Organizational Hierarchy  vii
Resume Preparation Guidelines  x
Salary Negotiation xii
Interview Rating Sheet  xiii
Common Questions Asked During
Interviews xvi
How to Read This Book xvii

Chapter 1 Software Testing Basics 1

(B) In which software life cycle phase does
testing occur? 1
(B) Can you explain the PDCA cycle and
where testing fits in?  1
(B) What is the difference between white
box, black box, and gray box testing? 2
(B) What is the difference between a defect
and a failure? 3
(B) What are the categories of defects? 4
(B) What is the difference between verification
and validation? 4
(B) How does testing affect risk? 4
(B) Does an increase in testing always improve
the project? 5
(I) How do you define a testing policy? 6
(B) Should testing be done only after the build
and execution phases are complete? 7
(B) Are there more defects in the design phase
or in the coding phase? 9
(B) What kind of input do we need from the
end user to begin proper testing? 10

xviii
 Contents xix

(B) What is the difference between latent

and masked defects? 11
(B) A defect which could have been removed
during the initial stage is removed in a
later stage. How does this affect cost? 12
(I) Can you explain the workbench concept? 13
(B) What’s the difference between alpha
and beta testing? 16
(I) Can you explain the concept of defect
cascading? 17
(B) Can you explain how one defect leads to
other defects? 17
(B) Can you explain usability testing? 18
(B) What are the different strategies for
rollout to end users? 18
(I) Can you explain requirement traceability
and its importance? 19
(B) What is the difference between pilot
and beta testing? 20
(B) How do you perform a risk analysis during
software testing? 21
(B) How do you conclude which section is
most risky in your application? 21
(B) What does entry and exit criteria mean
in a project? 25
(B) On what basis is the acceptance plan
prepared? 25
(B) What’s the relationship between
environment reality and test phases? 26
(B) What are different types of
verifications? 27
(B) What’s the difference between inspections
and walkthroughs? 27
(B) Can you explain regression testing and
confirmation testing? 28
(I) What is coverage and what are the different
types of coverage techniques? 29
xx Contents

(A) How does a coverage tool work? 29

(B) What is configuration management? 30
(B) Can you explain the baseline concept
in software development? 30
(B) What are the different test plan
documents in a project? 32
(B) How do test documents in a project
span across the software development
lifecycle? 33
(A) Can you explain inventories? 34
(A) How do you do analysis and design for
testing projects? 34
(A) Can you explain calibration? 34
(B) Which test cases are written first: white
boxes or black boxes? 36
(I) Can you explain cohabiting software? 37
(B) What impact ratings have you used in your
projects? 38
(B) What is a test log? 38
(I) Explain the SDLC (Software Development
LifeCycle) in detail? 39
(I) Can you explain the waterfall model? 39
(I) Can you explain the big-bang
waterfall model? 39
(I) Can you explain the phased
waterfall model? 39
(I) Explain the iterative model, incremental
model, spiral model, evolutionary model
and the V-model? 39
(I) Explain unit testing, integration tests,
system testing and acceptance testing? 39
(I) What’s the difference between system
testing and acceptance testing? 46
(I) Which is the best model? 46
(I) What group of teams can do software
testing? 47
 Contents xxi

Chapter 2 Testing Techniques 49

(B) Can you explain boundary value
analysis? 49
(B) What is a boundary value in software
testing? 49
(B) Can you explain equivalence
partitioning? 49
(B) Can you explain how the state
transition diagrams can be helpful
during testing? 52
(B) Can you explain random testing? 53
(B) Can you explain monkey testing? 53
(B) What is negative and positive testing? 54
(I) Can you explain exploratory testing? 54
(A) What are semi-random test cases? 55
(I) What is an orthogonal arrays? 56
(I) Can you explain a pair-wise defect? 56
(I) Can you explain decision tables? 58
(B) How did you define severity ratings in
your project? 59

Chapter 3 The Software Process 61

(B) What is a software process? 61
(I) What are the different cost elements
involved in implementing a process in an
organization? 62
(B) What is a model? 63
(B) What is a maturity level? 64
(B) Can you explain process areas in CMMI? 64
(B) Can you explain tailoring? 65

Chapter 4 CMMI 67
(B) What is CMMI and what’s the advantage
of implementing it in an organization? 67
xxii Contents

(I) What’s the difference between

implementation and institu­tionalization? 68
(I) What are different models in CMMI? 69
(I) Can you explain staged and continuous
models in CMMI? 69
(I) Can you explain the different maturity
levels in a staged representation? 72
(I) Can you explain capability levels in a
continuous representation? 73
(I) Which model should we use and under
what scenarios? 75
(A) How many process areas are present in
CMMI and what classification do
they fall in? 75
(B) Can you define all the levels in CMMI? 77
(I) What different sources are needed to verify
authenticity for CMMI implementation? 80
(I) Can you explain the SCAMPI process? 81
(I) How is appraisal done in CMMI? 81
(I) Which appraisal method class is best? 82
(I) Can you explain the importance of PII in
SCAMPI? 84
(A) Can you explain implementation of CMMI
in one of the key process areas? 85
(B) What are all the process areas and goals
and practices? 88
(A) Can you explain all the process areas?  88

Chapter 5 Six Sigma 105

(B) What is Six Sigma? 105
(I) Can you explain the different methodology
for the execution and the design process
stages in Six Sigma? 105
(I) What are executive leaders, champions,
master black belts, green belts, and
black belts? 107
 Contents xxiii

(I) What are the different kinds of variations

used in Six Sigma? 109
(A) Can you explain standard deviation? 112
(B) Can you explain the fish bone/Ishikawa
diagram? 115

Chapter 6 Metrics 117

(B) What is meant by measures and metrics? 117
(I) Can you explain how the number of
defects are measured? 118
(I) Can you explain how the number of
production defects are measured? 119
(I) Can you explain defect seeding? 119
(I) Can you explain DRE? 121
(B) Can you explain unit and system
test DRE? 121
(I) How do you measure test effectiveness? 124
(B) Can you explain defect age and defect
spoilage? 125

Chapter 7 Automated Testing 127

(B) What are good candidates for automation
in testing? 127
(B) Does automation replace manual testing? 127
(I) Which automation tools have you worked
with and can you explain them briefly? 128
(I) How does load testing work for websites? 136
(A) Can you give an example showing load
testing for Websites? 138
(I) What does the load test summary report
contain? 144
(I) Can you explain data-driven testing? 145
(I) Can you explain table-driven testing? 145
(I) How can you perform data-driven testing
using Automated QA? 145
xxiv Contents

Chapter 8 Testing Estimation 147

(B) What are the different ways of doing
black box testing? 147
(B) Can you explain TPA analysis? 147
(A) Can you explain function points? 148
(B) Can you explain an application boundary? 149
(B) Can you explain the elementary process? 150
(B) Can you explain the concept of the static
and dynamic elementary processes? 150
(I) Can you explain FTR, ILF, EIF, EI,
EO, EQ, and GSC? 152
(A) How can you estimate the number of
acceptance test cases in a project? 175
(A) Can you explain how TPA works 181
(A) How do you create an estimate for black
box testing? 183
(A) How do you estimate white box testing? 190
(A) Is there a way to estimate acceptance test
cases in a system? 190
 S oft ware

Chapter 1 T esting
B asics

(B) I n which software life cycle phase does testing

occur?

OR

(B) Can you explain the PDCA cycle and where

testing fitS IN?

Software testing is an important part of the software development process. In

normal software development there are four important steps, also referred
to, in short, as the PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) cycle.

Figure 4 PDCA cycle

1
 Software Testing Interview Questions

Let’s review the four steps in detail.

1) Plan: Define the goal and the plan for achieving that goal.
2) Do/Execute: Depending on the plan strategy decided during the plan
stage we do execution accordingly in this phase.
3) Check: Check/Test to ensure that we are moving according to plan and
are getting the desired results.
4) Act: During the check cycle, if any issues are there, then we take appropriate
action accordingly and revise our plan again.

So now to answer our question, where does testing fit in….you guessed
it, the check part of the cycle. So developers and other stakeholders of the
project do the “planning and building,” while testers do the check part of
the cycle.

(B) What is the difference between white box,

black box, and gray box testing?

Black box testing is a testing strategy based solely on requirements and

specifications. Black box testing requires no knowledge of internal paths,
structures, or implementation of the software being tested.
White box testing is a testing strategy based on internal paths, code
structures, and implementation of the software being tested. White box testing
generally requires detailed programming skills.
There is one more type of testing called gray box testing. In this we look
into the “box” being tested just long enough to understand how it has been
implemented. Then we close up the box and use our knowledge to choose
more effective black box tests.
The following figure shows how both types of testers view an accounting
application during testing. Black box testers view the basic accounting
application. While during white box testing the tester knows the internal
structure of the application. In most scenarios white box testing is done by
developers as they know the internals of the application. In black box testing
we check the overall functionality of the application while in white box testing
we do code reviews, view the architecture, remove bad code practices, and
do component level testing.
 Software Testing Basics 

Figure 5 White box and black box testing in action

(B) What is the difference between a defect and a

failure?

When a defect reaches the end customer it is called a failure and if the defect
is detected internally and resolved it’s called a defect.

Figure 6 Defect and failure

 Software Testing Interview Questions

(B) What are the categories of defects?

There are three main categories of defects:

Wrong: The requirements have been implemented incorrectly. This defect
is a variance from the given specification.
Missing: There was a requirement given by the customer and it was not done.
This is a variance from the specifications, an indication that a specification was
not implemented, or a requirement of the customer was not noted properly.
Extra: A requirement incorporated into the product that was not given by
the end customer. This is always a variance from the specification, but may
be an attribute desired by the user of the product. However, it is considered
a defect because it’s a variance from the existing requirements.

Figure 7 Broader classification of defects

(B) What is the difference between verification and

validation?

Verification is a review without actually executing the process while validation

is checking the product with actual execution. For instance, code review and
syntax check is verification while actually running the product and checking
the results is validation.

(B) How does testing affect risk?

A risk is a condition that can result in a loss. Risk can only be controlled in
different scenarios but not eliminated completely. A defect normally converts
 Software Testing Basics 

Figure 8 Verification and validation

to a risk. For instance, let’s say you are developing an accounting application
and you have done the wrong tax calculation. There is a huge possibility that
this will lead to the risk of the company running under loss. But if this defect
is controlled then we can either remove this risk completely or minimize it.
The following diagram shows how a risk gets converted to a risk and with
proper testing how it can be controlled.

Figure 9 Defect and risk relationship

(B) Does an increase in testing always improve the

project?

No an increase in testing does not always mean improvement of the product,

company, or project. In real test scenarios only 20% of test plans are critical
 Software Testing Interview Questions

from a business angle. Running those critical test plans will assure that the
testing is properly done. The following graph explains the impact of under
testing and over testing. If you under test a system the number of defects will
increase, but if you over test a system your cost of testing will increase. Even
if your defects come down your cost of testing has gone up.

Figure 10 Testing cost curve

(I) How do you define a testing policy?

Note: This question will be normally asked to see whether you can independently
set up testing departments. Many companies still think testing is secondary.
That’s where a good testing manager should show the importance of testing.
Bringing in the attitude of testing in companies which never had a formal testing
department is a huge challenge because it’s not about bringing in a new process
but about changing the mentality.

The following are the important steps used to define a testing policy in
general. But it can change according to your organization. Let’s discuss in
detail the steps of implementing a testing policy in an organization.
 Software Testing Basics 

Definition: The first step any organization needs to do is define one unique
definition for testing within the organization so that everyone is of the same
mindset.
How to achieve: How are we going to achieve our objective? Is there going
to be a testing committee, will there be compulsory test plans which need to
be executed, etc?.
Evaluate: After testing is implemented in a project how do we evaluate it? Are
we going to derive metrics of defects per phase, per programmer, etc. Finally, it’s
important to let everyone know how testing has added value to the project?.
Standards: Finally, what are the standards we want to achieve by testing. For
instance, we can say that more than 20 defects per KLOC will be considered
below standard and code review should be done for it.

Figure 11 Establishing a testing policy

The previous methodology is from a general point of view. Note that you
should cover the steps in broader aspects.

(B) Should testing be done only after the build and

execution phases are complete?

Note: This question will normally be asked to judge whether you have a
traditional or modern testing attitude.
 Software Testing Interview Questions

In traditional testing methodology (sad to say many companies still have

that attitude) testing is always done after the build and execution phases. But
that’s a wrong way of thinking because the earlier we catch a defect, the more
cost effective it is. For instance, fixing a defect in maintenance is ten times
more costly than fixing it during execution.

Figure 12 Traditional way of testing

Testing after code and build is a traditional approach and many companies
have improved on this philosophy. Testing should occur in conjunction with
each phase as shown in the following figure.
In the requirement phase we can verify if the requirements are met
according to the customer needs. During design we can check whether
the design document covers all the requirements. In this stage we can also
generate rough functional data. We can also review the design document
from the architecture and the correctness perspectives. In the build and
execution phase we can execute unit test cases and generate structural and
functional data. And finally comes the testing phase done in the traditional
way. i.e., run the system test cases and see if the system works according to the
requirements. During installation we need to see if the system is compatible
with the software. Finally, during the maintenance phase when any fixes are
made we can retest the fixes and follow the regression testing.
 Software Testing Basics 

Figure 13 Modern way of testing

(B) Are there more defects in the design phase or in

the coding phase?

Note: This question is asked to see if you really know practically which phase
is the most defect prone.

The design phase is more error prone than the execution phase. One
of the most frequent defects which occur during design is that the product
does not cover the complete requirements of the customer. Second is wrong
or bad architecture and technical decisions make the next phase, execution,
more prone to defects. Because the design phase drives the execution phase
it’s the most critical phase to test. The testing of the design phase can be done
by good review. On average, 60% of defects occur during design and 40%
during the execution phase.
10 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 14 Phase-wise defect percentage

(B) What kind of input do we need from the end user

to begin proper testing?

The product has to be used by the user. He is the most important person as
he has more interest than anyone else in the project. From the user we need
the following data:

n  he first thing we need is the acceptance test plan from the

T
end user. The acceptance test defines the entire test which the
product has to pass so that it can go into production.
n We also need the requirement document from the customer.
In normal scenarios the customer never writes a formal
document until he is really sure of his requirements. But at
some point the customer should sign saying yes this is what he
wants.
n The customer should also define the risky sections of the
project. For instance, in a normal accounting project if
a voucher entry screen does not work that will stop the
accounting functionality completely. But if reports are not
derived the accounting department can use it for some
time. The customer is the right person to say which section
will affect him the most. With this feedback the testers
can prepare a proper test plan for those areas and test it
thoroughly.
n The customer should also provide proper data for testing.
Feeding proper data during testing is very important. In many
scenarios testers key in wrong data and expect results which
are of no interest to the customer.
 Software Testing Basics 11

Figure 15 Expectations from the end user for testing

(B) What is the difference between latent and

masked defects?

A latent defect is an existing defect that has not yet caused a failure because
the exact set of conditions were never met.
A masked defect is an existing defect that hasn’t yet caused a failure
just because another defect has prevented that part of the code from being
executed.
The following flow chart explains latent defects practically. The
application has the ability to print an invoice either by laser printer or by
dot matrix printer. In order to achieve it the application first searches for
the laser printer. If it finds a laser printer it uses the laser printer and prints
it. If it does not find a laser printer, the application searches for dot matrix
printer. If the application finds a dot matrix printer (DMP) the application
prints using or an error is given.
Now for whatever reason this application never searched for the dot matrix
printer. So the application never got tested for the DMP. That means the exact
conditions were never met for the DMP. This is called a latent defect.
Now the same application has two defects: one defect is in the DMP
search and the other defect is in the DMP print. But because the search of
the DMP fails the print DMP defect is never detected. So the print DMP
defect is a masked defect.
12 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 16 Latent and masked defects

(B) A defect which could have been removed during

the initial stage is removed in a later stage. How
does this affect cost?

If a defect is known at the initial stage then it should be removed during that
stage/phase itself rather than at some later stage. It’s a recorded fact that
if a defect is delayed for later phases it proves more costly. The following
figure shows how a defect is costly as the phases move forward. A defect
if identified and removed during the requirement and design phase is the
most cost effective, while a defect removed during maintenance is 20 times
costlier than during the requirement and design phases. For instance, if a
defect is identified during requirement and design we only need to change the
documentation, but if identified during the maintenance phase we not only
 Software Testing Basics 13

Figure 17 Cost of defect increases with each phase

need to fix the defect, but also change our test plans, do regression testing, and
change all documentation. This is why a defect should be identified/removed
in earlier phases and the testing department should be involved right from
the requirement phase and not after the execution phase.

(I) Can you explain the workbench concept?

In order to understand testing methodology we need to understand the

workbench concept. A Workbench is a way of documenting how a specific
activity has to be performed. A workbench is referred to as phases, steps, and
tasks as shown in the following figure.

Figure 18 Workbench with phases and steps

14 Software Testing Interview Questions

There are five tasks for every workbench:

n I nput: Every task needs some defined input and entrance

criteria. So for every workbench we need defined inputs.
Input forms the first steps of the workbench.
n Execute: This is the main task of the workbench which will
transform the input into the expected output.
n Check: Check steps assure that the output after execution
meets the desired result.
n Production output: If the check is right the production
output forms the exit criteria of the workbench.
n Rework: During the check step if the output is not as desired

then we need to again start from the execute step.

The following figure shows all the steps required for a workbench.

Figure 19 Phases in a workbench

In real scenarios projects are not made of one workbench but of many
connected workbenches. A workbench gives you a way to perform any kind
 Software Testing Basics 15

of task with proper testing. You can visualize every software phase as a
workbench with execute and check steps. The most important point to note is
we visualize any task as a workbench by default we have the check part in the
task. The following figure shows how every software phase can be visualized
as a workbench. Let’s discuss the workbench concept in detail:

Figure 20 Workbench and software lifecycles

Requirement phase workbench: The input is the customer’s requirements;

we execute the task of writing a requirement document, we check if the
requirement document addresses all the customer needs, and the output is
the requirement document.
16 Software Testing Interview Questions

Design phase workbench: The input is the requirement document, we

execute the task of preparing a technical document; review/check is done
to see if the design document is technically correct and addresses all the
requirements mentioned in the requirement document, and the output is
the technical document.
Execution phase workbench: This is the actual execution of the project. The
input is the technical document; the execution is nothing but implementation/
coding according to the technical document, and the output of this phase is
the implementation/source code.
Testing phase workbench: This is the testing phase of the project. The
input is the source code which needs to be tested; the execution is executing
the test case and the output is the test results.
Deployment phase workbench: This is the deployment phase. There are
two inputs for this phase: one is the source code which needs to be deployed
and that is dependent on the test results. The output of this project is that
the customer gets the product which he can now start using.
Maintenance phase workbench: The input to this phase is the deployment
results, execution is implementing change requests from the end customer,
the check part is nothing but running regression testing after every change
request implementation, and the output is a new release after every change
request execution.

(B) What’s the difference between alpha and beta

testing?

Alpha and beta testing has different meanings to different people. Alpha testing
is the acceptance testing done at the development site. Some organizations

Figure 21 Alpha and beta testing

 Software Testing Basics 17

have a different visualization of alpha testing. They consider alpha testing as

testing which is conducted on early, unstable versions of software. On the
contrary beta testing is acceptance testing conducted at the customer end.
In short, the difference between beta testing and alpha testing is the location
where the tests are done.

(I) Can you explain the concept of defect cascading?

OR

(B) Can you explain how one defect leads to other

defects?

Defect cascading is a defect which is caused by another defect. One defect

triggers the other defect. For instance, in the accounting application shown
here there is a defect which leads to negative taxation. So the negative taxation
defect affects the ledger which in turn affects four other modules.

Figure 22 Defect cascading

18 Software Testing Interview Questions

(B) Can you explain usability testing?

Usability testing is a testing methodology where the end customer is asked

to use the software to see if the product is easy to use, to see the customer’s
perception and task time. The best way to finalize the customer point of view
for usability is by using prototype or mock-up software during the initial stages.
By giving the customer the prototype before the development start-up we
confirm that we are not missing anything from the user point of view.

Figure 23 Prototype and usability testing

(B) What are the different strategies for rollout to

end users?

There are four major ways of rolling out any project:

Pilot: The actual production system is installed at a single or limited number
of users. Pilot basically means that the product is actually rolled out to limited
users for real work.
Gradual Implementation: In this implementation we ship the entire product
to the limited users or all users at the customer end. Here, the developers
get instant feedback from the recipients which allow them to make changes
before the product is available. But the downside is that developers and testers
maintain more than one version at one time.
Phased Implementation: In this implementation the product is rolled out
to all users in incrementally. That means each successive rollout has some
added functionality. So as new functionality comes in, new installations
occur and the customer tests them progressively. The benefit of this kind of
rollout is that customers can start using the functionality and provide valuable
feedback progressively. The only issue here is that with each rollout and added
functionality the integration becomes more complicated.
 Software Testing Basics 19

Parallel Implementation: In these types of rollouts the existing application

is run side by side with the new application. If there are any issues with the
new application we again move back to the old application. One of the biggest
problems with parallel implementation is we need extra hardware, software,
and resources.
The following figure shows the different launch strategies for a
project rollout.

Figure 24 Launch strategies

(I) Can you explain requirement traceability and its

importance?

In most organizations testing only starts after the execution/coding phase of

the project. But if the organization wants to really benefit from testing, then
testers should get involved right from the requirement phase.
If the tester gets involved right from the requirement phase then
requirement traceability is one of the important reports that can detail what
kind of test coverage the test cases have.
The following figure shows how we can measure the coverage using the
requirement traceability matrix.
We have extracted the important functionality from the requirement
document and aligned it on the left-hand side of the sheet. On the other side,
20 Software Testing Interview Questions

at the top, we have mapped the test cases with the requirement. With this
we can ensure that all requirements are covered by our test cases. As shown
we can have one or more test cases covering the requirements. This is also
called requirement coverage.

Figure 25 Requirement Traceability

Note: Many professionals still think testing is executing test cases on the
application. But testing should be performed at all levels. In the requirement
phase we can use the review and traceability matrix to check the validity of our
project. In the design phase we can use the design review to check the correctness
of the design and so on.

(B) What is the difference between pilot and beta

testing?

The difference between pilot and beta testing is that pilot testing is nothing
but actually using the product (limited to some users) and in beta testing we
do not input real data, but it’s installed at the end customer to validate if the
product can be used in production.
 Software Testing Basics 21

Figure 26 Pilot and beta testing

(B) How do you perform a risk analysis during

software testing?

OR

(B) How do you conclude which section is most risky

in your application?

Note: Here the interviewer is expecting a proper approach to rating risk to the
application modules so that while testing you pay more attention to those risky
modules, thus minimizing risk in projects.

The following is a step by step approach for testing planning:

n  he first step is to collect features and concerns from
T
the current documentation and data available from the
requirement phase. For instance, here is a list of some
features and concerns:

Features
Add a user
Check user preferences
Login user
Add new invoice
Print invoice

Continued
22 Software Testing Interview Questions

Concerns
Maintainability
Security
Performance

Table 1 Features and concerns

The table shows features and concerns. Features are functionalities which
the end user will use, while concerns are global attributes of the project. For
instance, the security has to be applied to all the features listed.

n  nce we have listed the features and concerns, we need to

O
rate the probability/likelihood of failures in this feature. In the
following section we have rated the features and concerns as low,
high, and medium, but you can use numerical values if you want.

Features Probability of failure

Add a user Low
Check user
preferences Low
Login user Low
Add new invoice High
Print invoice Medium
Concerns Probability of failure
Maintainability Low
Security High
Performance High

Table 2 Probability rating according to features and concerns

n  nce we have rated the failure probability, we need to rate

O
the impact. Impact means if we make changes to this feature,
how many other features will be affected? You can see in
the following table that we have marked the impact section
accordingly.
 Software Testing Basics 23

Features Probability of failure Impact

Add a user Low Low
Check user preferences Low Low
Login user Low High
Add new invoice High High
Print invoice Medium High
Concerns Probability of failure Impact
Maintainability Low Low
Security High High
Performance High Low

Table 3 Impact and probability rating

n  e also need to define the master priority rating table

W
depending on the impact and probability ratings. The
following table defines the risk priority.

Probability of failure Impact Risk Priority

Low Low 1
Low High 2
Medium High 3
High High 4

Table 4 Priority rating

n  sing the priority rating table we have defined priority for the
U
following listed features. Depending on priority you can start
testing those features first.
n Once the priority is set you can then review it with your team
members to validate it.
24 Software Testing Interview Questions

Features Probability of failure Impact Priority

Add a user Low Low 1
Check user preferences Low Low 1
Login user Low High 2
Add new invoice High High 4
Print invoice Medium High 3
Concerns Probability of failure Impact
Maintainability Low Low 1
Security High High 4
Performance High Low 3

Figure 27 Priority set according to the risk priority table

The following figure shows the summary of the above steps. So list your
concerns, rate the probabilities of failures, provide an impact rating, calculate
risk/priority, and then review, review, and review.

Figure 28 Testing analysis and design

 Software Testing Basics 25

(B) What does entry and exit criteria mean in a

project?

Entry and exit criteria are a must for the success of any project. If you do
not know where to start and where to finish then your goals are not clear. By
defining exit and entry criteria you define your boundaries. For instance, you
can define entry criteria that the customer should provide the requirement
document or acceptance plan. If this entry criteria is not met then you will
not start the project. On the other end, you can also define exit criteria for
your project. For instance, one of the common exit criteria in projects is that
the customer has successfully executed the acceptance test plan.

Figure 29 Entry and exit criteria

(B) On what basis is the acceptance plan prepared?

In any project the acceptance document is normally prepared using the

following inputs. This can vary from company to company and from project
to project.

n  equirement document: This document specifies what exactly

R
is needed in the project from the customers perspective.
n Input from customer: This can be discussions, informal talks,
emails, etc.
n Project plan: The project plan prepared by the project manager
also serves as good input to finalize your acceptance test.
26 Software Testing Interview Questions

Note: In projects the acceptance test plan can be prepared by numerous inputs.
It is not necessary that the above list be the only criteria. If you think you have
something extra to add, go ahead.

The following diagram shows the most common inputs used to prepare
acceptance test plans.

Figure 30 Acceptance test input criteria

(B) What’s the relationship between environment

reality and test phases?

Environment reality becomes more important as test phases start moving

ahead. For instance, during unit testing you need the environment to be partly
real, but at the acceptance phase you should have a 100% real environment,
or we can say it should be the actual real environment. The following graph
shows how with every phase the environment reality should also increase and
finally during acceptance it should be 100% real.
 Software Testing Basics 27

Figure 31 Environmental reality

(B) What are different types of verifications?

OR

(B) What’s the difference between inspections and

walkthroughs?

As said in the previous sections the difference between validation and

verification is that in validation we actually execute the application, while in
verification we review without actually running the application. Verifications
are basically of two main types: Walkthroughs and Inspections. A walkthrough
is an informal form of verification. For instance, you can call your colleague
and do an informal walkthrough to just check if the documentation and coding
is correct. Inspection is a formal procedure and official. For instance, in your
organization you can have an official body which approves design documents
for any project. Every project in your organization needs to go through an
inspection which reviews your design documents. If there are issues in the
28 Software Testing Interview Questions

design documents, then your project will get a NC (non-conformance) list.

You cannot proceed without clearing the NCs given by the inspection team.

Figure 32 Walkthrough and inspection

(B) Can you explain regression testing and

confirmation testing?

Regression testing is used for regression defects. Regression defects are defects
occur when the functionality which was once working normally has stopped
working. This is probably because of changes made in the program or the
environment. To uncover such kind of defect regression testing is conducted.
The following figure shows the difference between regression and
confirmation testing. If we fix a defect in an existing application we use

Figure 33 Regression testing in action

 Software Testing Basics 29

confirmation testing to test if the defect is removed. It’s very possible because
of this defect or changes to the application that other sections of the application
are affected. So to ensure that no other section is affected we can use regression
testing to confirm this.

(I) What is coverage and what are the different

types of coverage techniques?

Coverage is a measurement used in software testing to describe the degree

to which the source code is tested. There are three basic types of coverage
techniques as shown in the following figure:

Figure 34 Coverage techniques

n  tatement coverage: This coverage ensures that each line of

S
source code has been executed and tested.
n Decision coverage: This coverage ensures that every decision
(true/false) in the source code has been executed and tested.
n Path coverage: In this coverage we ensure that every possible
route through a given part of code is executed and tested.

(A) How does a coverage tool work?

Note: We will be covering coverage tools in more detail in later chapters, but
for now let’s discuss the fundamentals of how a code coverage tool works.
30 Software Testing Interview Questions

While doing testing on the actual product, the code coverage testing tool
is run simultaneously. While the testing is going on, the code coverage tool
monitors the executed statements of the source code. When the final testing
is completed we get a complete report of the pending statements and also
get the coverage percentage.

Figure 35 Coverage tool in action

(B) What is configuration management?

Configuration management is the detailed recording and updating of

information for hardware and software components. When we say components
we not only mean source code. It can be tracking of changes for software
documents such as requirement, design, test cases, etc.
When changes are done in adhoc and in an uncontrolled manner chaotic
situations can arise and more defects injected. So whenever changes are
done it should be done in a controlled fashion and with proper versioning.
At any moment of time we should be able to revert back to the old version.
The main intention of configuration management is to track our changes if
we have issues with the current system. Configuration management is done
using baselines.

Note: Please refer the baseline concept in the next question.

(B) Can you explain the baseline concept in

software development?

Baselines are logical ends in a software development lifecycle. For

instance, let’s say you have software whose releases will be done in phases,
 Software Testing Basics 31

i.e., Phase 1, Phase 2, etc. You can baseline your software product after every
phase. In this way you will now be able to track the difference between
Phase 1 and Phase 2. Changes can be in various sections. For instance, the
requirement document (because some requirements changed), technical
(due to changes in the architecture), source code (source code changes),
test plan changes, and so on.
For example, consider the following figure which shows how an accounting
application had undergone changes and was then baselined with each
version. When the accounting application was released it was released with
ver 1.0 and baselined. After some time some new features where added and
version 2.0 was generated. This was again a logical end so we again baselined
the application. So now in case we want to trace back and see the changes
from ver 2.0 to ver 1.0 we can do so easily. After some time the accounting
application went through some defect removal, ver 3.0 was generated, and
again baselined and so on.
The following figure depicts the various scenarios.

Figure 36 Baseline

Baselines are very important from a testing perspective. Testing on a

software product that is constantly changing will not get you anywhere. So
when you actually start testing you need to first baseline the application so
that what you test is for that baseline. If the developer fixes something then
create a new baseline and perform testing on it. In this way any kind of conflict
will be avoided.
32 Software Testing Interview Questions

(B) What are the different test plan documents

in a project?

Note: This answer varies from project to project and company to company. You
can tailor this answer according to your experience. This book will try to answer
the question from the authors view point.

There are a minimum of four test plan documents needed in any software
project. But depending on the project and team members agreement some
of the test plan documents can be deleted.

Central/Project test plan: The central test plan is one of the most important
communication channels for all project participants. This document can have
essentials such as resource utilization, testing strategies, estimation, risk,
priorities, and more.

Acceptance test plan: The acceptance test plan is mostly based on user
requirements and is used to verify whether the requirements are satisfied
according to customer needs. Acceptance test cases are like a green light for
the application and help to determine whether or not the application should
go into production.

System test plan: A system test plan is where all main testing happens. This
testing, in addition to functionality testing, has also load, performance, and
reliability tests.

Integration testing: Integration testing ensures that the various components

in the system interact properly and data is passed properly between them.

Unit testing: Unit testing is done more on a developer level. In unit testing
we check the individual module in isolation. For instance, the developer can
check his sorting function in isolation, rather than checking in an integrated
fashion.
The following figure shows the interaction between the entire project
test plan.
 Software Testing Basics 33

Figure 37 Different test plans in a project

(B) How do test documents in a project span across

the software development lifecycle?

The following figure shows pictorially how test documents span across the
software development lifecycle. The following discusses the specific testing

Figure 38 Test documents across phases

34 Software Testing Interview Questions

documents in the lifecycle:

Central/Project test plan: This is the main test plan which outlines the
complete test strategy of the software project. This document should be
prepared before the start of the project and is used until the end of the
software development lifecyle.
Acceptance test plan: This test plan is normally prepared with the end
customer. This document commences during the requirement phase and is
completed at final delivery.
System test plan: This test plan starts during the design phase and proceeds
until the end of the project.
Integration and unit test plan: Both of these test plans start during the
execution phase and continue until the final delivery.

Note: The above answer is a different interpretation of V-model testing. We

have explained the V-model in this chapter in more detail in one of the questions.
Read it once to understand the concept.

(A) Can you explain inventories?

OR

(A)  ow do you do analysis and design for testing

h
projects?

OR

(A) Can you explain calibration?

The following are three important steps for doing analysis and design for
testing:
Test objectives: These are broad categories of things which need to be tested
in the application. For instance, in the following figure we have four broad
categories of test areas: polices, error checking, features, and speed.
Inventory: Inventory is a list of things to be tested for an objective. For
instance, the following figure shows that we have identified inventory such as
 Software Testing Basics 35

Figure 39 Software testing planning and design

add new policy, which is tested for the object types of policies. Change/add
address and delete customer is tested for the features objective.
Tracking matrix: Once we have identified our inventories we need to map
the inventory to test cases. Mapping of inventory to the test cases is called
calibration.

Figure 40 Calibration

The following is a sample inventory tracking matrix. “Features” is the

objective and “add new policy,” “change address,” and “delete a customer”
are the inventory for the objective. Every inventory is mapped to a test case.
Only the “delete a customer” inventory is not mapped to any test case. This
way we know if we have covered all the aspects of the application in testing.
36 Software Testing Interview Questions

The inventory tracking matrix gives us a quick global view of what is pending
and hence helps us to also measure coverage of the application. The following
figure shows the “delete a customer” inventory is not covered by any test case
thus alerting us of what is not covered.

Figure 41 Inventory tracking matrix

Note: During the interview try to explain all of the above three steps because
that’s how testing is planned and designed in big companies. Inventory forms
the main backbone of software testing.

(B) Which test cases are written first: white boxes

or black boxes?

Normally black box test cases are written first and white box test cases later. In
order to write black box test cases we need the requirement document and,
design or project plan. All these documents are easily available at the initial start
of the project. White box test cases cannot be started in the initial phase of the
project because they need more architecture clarity which is not available at the
start of the project. So normally white box test cases are written after black box
 Software Testing Basics 37

test cases are written. Black box test cases do not require system understanding
but white box testing needs more structural understanding. And structural
understanding is clearer in the later part of project, i.e., while executing or
designing. For black box testing you need to only analyze from the functional
perspective which is easily available from a simple requirement document.

Figure 42 White box and black box test cases

(I) Can you explain cohabiting software?

When we install the application at the end client it is very possible that on
the same PC other applications also exist. It is also very possible that those
applications share common DLLs, resources etc., with your application. There
is a huge chance in such situations that your changes can affect the cohabiting
software. So the best practice is after you install your application or after any
changes, tell other application owners to run a test cycle on their application.

Figure 43 Cohabiting software

38 Software Testing Interview Questions

(B) What impact ratings have you used in your

projects?

Normally, the impact ratings for defects are classified into three types:
n  inor: Very low impact but does not affect operations on a
M
large scale.
n Major: Affects operations on a very large scale.
n Critical: Brings the system to a halt and stops the show.

Figure 44 Test Impact rating

(B) What is a test log?

The IEEE Std. 829-1998 defines a test log as a chronological record of relevant
details about the execution of test cases. It’s a detailed view of activity and
events given in chronological manner. The following figure shows a test log
and is followed by a sample test log.

Figure 45 Test Log

 Software Testing Basics 39

Figure 46 Sample test log

(I) Explain the SDLC (Software Development

LifeCycle) in detail.

OR

(I) Can you explain the Waterfall Model?

OR

(I) Can you explain the Big-Bang Waterfall Model?

OR

(I) Can you explain the Phased Waterfall Model?

OR

(I) Explain the Iterative model, Incremental model,

Spiral model, Evolutionary Model and the
V-Model?

OR

(I) Explain Unit Testing, Integration Tests, System

Testing and Acceptance Testing?

Every activity has a lifecycle and the software development process is no

exception. Even if you are not aware of the SDLC you are still following
40 Software Testing Interview Questions

it unknowingly. But if a software professional is aware of the SDLC he

can execute the project in a controlled fashion. The biggest benefit of this
awareness is that developers will not start execution (coding) which can
really lead to the project running in an uncontrolled fashion. Second, it helps
customer and software professionals to avoid confusion by anticipating the
problems and issues before hand. In short, the SDLC defines the various
stages in a software lifecycle.
But before we try to understand what SDLC is all about we need to get a
broader view of the beginning and ending of the SDLC. Any project started
if it does not have a start and end then its already in trouble. It’s like if you go
out for a drive you should know where to start and where to end or else you
are moving around endlessly.
The figure shows a more global view of the how the SDLS starts and ends.
Any project should have entry criteria and exit criteria. For instance, a proper
estimation document can be an entry criteria condition. That means if you
do not have a proper estimation document in place the project will not start.
It can also be more practical. If half payment is not received the project will
not start. There can be a list of points which need to be completed before a
project starts. Finally, there should be an end to the project which defines
when the project will end. For instance, if all the test scenarios given by the

Figure 47 Entry, SDLC, and Exit in action

 Software Testing Basics 41

end customer are completed the project is finished. In the figure we have
the entry criteria as an estimation document and the exit criteria as a signed
document by the end client saying the software is delivered.
The following figure shows the typical flow in the SDLC which has six
main models. Developers can select a model for their project.

n Waterfall model
n Big bang model
n Phased model
n Iterative model
n Spiral model
n Incremental model

Waterfall Model
Let’s have a look at the Waterfall Model which is basically divided into two
subtypes: Big Bang waterfall model and the Phased waterfall model.
As the name suggests waterfall means flow of water which always goes
in one direction so when we say Waterfall model we expect that every phase/
stage is frozen.

Big Bang Waterfall Model

The figure shows the Waterfall Big Bang model which has several stages and
are described below:

n  equirement stage: During this stage basic business needs

R
required for the project which are from a user perspective are
produced as Word documents with simple points or may be in
the form of complicated use case documents.
n Design stage: Use case document/requirement document is
the input for this stage. Here we decide how to design the
project technically and produce a technical document which
has a class diagram, pseudo code, etc.
n Build stage: This stage uses technical documents as input so
code can be generated as output at this stage. This is where
the actual execution of the project takes place.
n Test stage: Here, testing is done on the source code produced
by the build stage and the final software is given the greenlight.
42 Software Testing Interview Questions

n  eliver stage: After succeeding in the test stage the final

D
product/project is finally installed at client end for actual
production. This stage is the beginning of the maintenance
stage.

Figure 48 The SDLC in action (Waterfall Big Bang model)

In the Waterfall Big Bang model, it is assumed that all stages are frozen
which means it’s a perfect world. But in actual projects such processes are
impractical.

Phased Waterfall Model

In this model the project is divided into small chunks and delivered at intervals
by different teams. In short, chunks are developed in parallel by different
teams and get integrated in the final project. But the disadvantage of this
model is that improper planning may lead to project failure during integration
or any mismatch of co-ordination between the team may cause failure.
 Software Testing Basics 43

Iterative Model
The Iterative model was introduced because of problems occuring in the
Waterfall model.
Now let’s take a look at the Iterative model which also has a two
subtypes:

Incremental Model
In this model work is divided into chunks like the Phase Waterfall model but
the difference is that in the Incremental model one team can work on one or
many chunks unlike in the Phase Waterfall model.

Spiral Model
This model uses a series of prototypes which refine our understanding of what
we are actually going to deliver. Plans are changed if required per refining
of the prototype. So everytime refining of the prototype is done the whole
process cycle is repeated.

Evolutionary Model
In the Incremental and Spiral model the main problem is for any changes done
in the between the SDLC we need to iterate a whole new cycle. For instance,
during the final (deliver) stage, if the customer demands a change we have to
iterate the whole cycle again which means we need to update all the previous
(requirement, technical documents, source code & test plan) stages.
In the Evolutionary model, we divide software into small units which
can be delivered earlier to the customer’s end. In later stages we evolve the
software with new customer needs.

Note: The Vs model is one of the favorite questions asked by interviews.

V-model
This type of model was developed by testers to emphasize the importance
of early testing. In this model testers are involved from the requirement
stage itself. The following diagram (V-model cycle diagram) shows how for
every stage some testing activity is done to ensure that the project is moving
forward as planned.
44 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 49 V-model cycle flow

For instance,

n I n the requirement stage we have acceptance test documents

created by the testers. Acceptance test documents outline that
if these tests pass then the customer will accept the software.
n In the specification stage testers create the system test
document. In the following section, system testing is explained
in more detail.
n In the design stage we have the integration documents created
by testers. Integration test documents define testing steps
for how the components should work when integrated. For
instance, you develop a customer class and product class. You
have tested the customer class and the product class individually.
But in a practical scenario the customer class will interact
with the product class. So you also need to test to ensure the
customer class is interacting with the product class properly.
n In the implement stage we have unit documents created by
the programmers or testers.
 Software Testing Basics 45

Let’s take a look at each testing phase in more detail.

Unit Testing
Starting from the bottom the first test level is “Unit Testing.” It involves
checking that each feature specified in the “Component Design” has been
implemented in the component.
In theory, an independent tester should do this, but in practice the
developer usually does it, as they are the only people who understand how a
component works. The problem with a component is that it performs only a
small part of the functionality of a system, and it relies on cooperating with
other parts of the system, which may not have been built yet. To overcome this,
the developer either builds, or uses, special software to trick the component
into believing it is working in a fully functional system.

Integration Testing
As the components are constructed and tested they are linked together to
make sure they work with each other. It is a fact that two components that
have passed all their tests, when connected to each other, produce one new
component full of faults. These tests can be done by specialists, or by the
developers.
Integration testing is not focused on what the components are doing but on
how they communicate with each other, as specified in the “System Design.”
The “System Design” defines relationships between components.
The tests are organized to check all the interfaces, until all the components
have been built and interfaced to each other producing the whole system.

System Testing
Once the entire system has been built then it has to be tested against the
“System Specification” to see if it delivers the features required. It is still
developer focused, although specialist developers known as systems testers
are normally employed to do it.
In essence, system testing is not about checking the individual parts of
the design, but about checking the system as a whole. In fact, it is one giant
component.
System testing can involve a number of special types of tests used to see if
all the functional and non-functional requirements have been met. In addition
46 Software Testing Interview Questions

to functional requirements these may include the following types of testing

for the non-functional requirements:
n Performance - Are the performance criteria met?
n Volume - Can large volumes of information be handled?
n Stress - Can peak volumes of information be handled?
n Documentation - Is the documentation usable for the system?
n Robustness - Does the system remain stable under adverse
circumstances?

There are many others, the need for which is dictated by how the system is
supposed to perform.

(I) What’s the difference between System Testing

and Acceptance Testing?

Acceptance testing checks the system against the “Requirements.” It is similar

to System testing in that the whole system is checked but the important
difference is the change in focus:
System testing checks that the system that was specified has been delivered.
Acceptance testing checks that the system will deliver what was requested.
The customer should always do Acceptance testing and not the developer.
The customer knows what is required from the system to achieve value in
the business and is the only person qualified to make that judgment. This
testing is more about ensuring that the software is delivered as defined by the
customer. It’s like getting a greenlight from the customer that the software
meets expectations and is ready to be used.

(I) Which is the best model?

In the previous section we looked through all the models. But in actual
projects, hardly one complete model can fulfill the entire project requirement.
In real projects, tailored models are proven to be the best, because they
share features from The Waterfall, Iterative, Evolutionary models, etc., and
can fit into real life time projects. Tailored models are most productive and
beneficial for many organizations. If it’s a pure testing project, then the V
model is the best.
 Software Testing Basics 47

(I) What group of teams can do software testing?

When it comes to testing everyone in the world can be involved right from
the developer to the project manager to the customer. But below are different
types of team groups which can be present in a project.

Isolated test team: This is a special team of testers which do only testing.
The testing team is not related to any project. It’s like having a pool of testers
in an organization, which are picked up on demand by the project and after
completion again get pushed back to the pool. This approach is costly but the
most helpful because we have a different angle of thinking from a different
group, which is isolated from development.

Outsource: In outsourcing, we contact an external supplier, hire testing

resources, and do testing for our project. Again, there are it has two sides of
the coin. The good part is resource handling is done by the external supplier.
So you are freed from the worry of resources leaving the company, people
management, etc. But the bad side of the coin is outsourced vendors do not
have domain knowledge of your business. Second, at the initial stage you need
to train them on domain knowledge, which is again, an added cost.

Inside test team: In this approach we have a separate team, which belongs to
the project. The project allocates a separate budget for testing and this testing
team works on this project only. The good side is you have a dedicated team
and because they are involved in the project they have strong knowledge of
it. The bad part is you need to budget for them which increases the project
cost.

Developers as testers: In this approach the developers of the project perform

the testing. The good part of this approach is developers have a very good
idea of the inner details so they can perform good level of testing. The bad
part of this approach is the developer and tester are the same person, so it’s
very likely that many defects can be missed.

QA/QC team: In this approach the quality team is involved in testing. The
good part is the QA team is involved and a good quality of testing can be
expected. The bad part is that the QA and QC team of any organization is
also involved with many other activities which can hamper the testing quality
of the project.
48 Software Testing Interview Questions

The following diagram shows the different team approaches.

Figure 50 Types of teams

Chapter 2 T esting
T echniques

(B) Can you explain boundary value analysis?

OR

(B) What is a boundary value in software testing?

In some projects there are scenarios where we need to do boundary value

testing. For instance, let’s say for a bank application you can withdraw a
maximum of 25000 and a minimum of 100. So in boundary value testing we only
test the exact boundaries rather than hitting in the middle. That means we only
test above the max and below the max. This covers all scenarios. The following
figure shows the boundary value testing for the bank application which we just
described. TC1 and TC2 are sufficient to test all conditions for the bank. TC3
and TC4 are just duplicate/redundant test cases which really do not add any
value to the testing. So by applying proper boundary value fundamentals we
can avoid duplicate test cases, which do not add value to the testing.

(B) Can you explain equivalence partitioning?

In equivalence partitioning we identify inputs which are treated by the system

in the same way and produce the same results. You can see from the following
figure applications TC1 and TC2 give the same results (i.e., TC3 and TC4 both
give the same result, Result2). In short, we have two redundant test cases. By
applying equivalence partitioning we minimize the redundant test cases.

49
50 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 51 Boundary value analysis

So apply the test below to see if it forms an equivalence class or not:

n All the test cases should test the same thing.
n They should produce the same results.
n If one test case catches a bug, then the other should also catch it.
n If one of them does not catch the defect, then the other
should not catch it.

Figure 52 Equivalence partitioning

 Testing Techniques 51

The following figure shows how the equivalence partition works.

Below, we have a scenario in which valid values lie between 20 and 2000.

Figure 53 Sample of equivalence partitioning

Any values beyond 2000 and below 20 are invalid. In the following scenario
the tester has made four test cases:

n Check below 20 (TC1)

n Check above 2000 (TC2)
n Check equal to 30 (TC3)
n Check equal to 1000 (TC4)

Test cases 3 and 4 give the same outputs so they lie in the same partition.
In short, we are doing redundant testing. Both TC3 and TC4 fall in one
equivalence partitioning, so we can prepare one test case by testing one value
in between the boundary, thus eliminating redundancy testing in projects.
52 Software Testing Interview Questions

(B)  an you explain how the state transition

C
diagrams can be helpful during testing?

Before we understand how state transition diagrams can be useful in testing,

let’s understand what exactly a state and transition. The result of a previous
input is called a state and transitions are actions which cause the state to
change from one state to another.
The following figure shows a typical state transition diagram. The arrows
signify the transition and the oval shapes signify the states. The first transition
in the diagram is the issue of the check that it is ready to be deposited. The
second transition is the check is deposited of which we can have two states:
either the check cleared or it bounced.

Figure 54 Sample state transition diagram

Now that we are clear about state and transition, how does it help us in
testing? By using states and transitions we can identify test cases. So we can
identify test cases either using states or transitions. But if we use only one entity,
i.e., either state or transition, it is very possible that we can miss some scenarios.
In order to get the maximum benefit we should use the combination of state
and transition. The following figure shows that if we only use state or transition
in isolation it’s possible that we will have partial testing. But the combination
of state and transition can give us better test coverage for an application.
 Testing Techniques 53

Figure 55 State, transition, and test cases

(B) Can you explain random testing?

OR
(B) Can you explain monkey testing?

Random testing is sometimes called monkey testing. In Random testing, data is

generated randomly often using a tool. For instance, the following figure shows
how randomly-generated data is sent to the system. This data is generated either
using a tool or some automated mechanism. With this randomly generated
input the system is then tested and results are observed accordingly.

Figure 56 Random/Monkey testing

54 Software Testing Interview Questions

Random testing has the following weakness:

n They are not realistic.

n Many of the tests are redundant and unrealistic.
n You will spend more time analyzing results.
n You cannot recreate the test if you do not record what data
was used for testing.

This kind of testing is really of no use and is normally performed by

newcomers. Its best use is to see if the system will hold up under adverse
effects.

(B) What is negative and positive testing?

A negative test is when you put in an invalid input and recieve errors.
A positive test is when you put in a valid input and expect some action to
be completed in accordance with the specification.

Figure 57 Negative and Positive testing

(I) Can you explain exploratory testing?

Exploratory testing is also called adhoc testing, but in reality it’s not completely
adhoc. Ad hoc testing is an unplanned, unstructured, may be even an impulsive
journey through the system with the intent of finding bugs. Exploratory
testing is simultaneous learning, test design, and test execution. In other
words, exploratory testing is any testing done to the extent that the tester
proactively controls the design of the tests as those tests are performed and
 Testing Techniques 55

uses information gained while testing to design better tests. Exploratory

testers are not merely keying in random data, but rather testing areas that
their experience (or imagination) tells them are important and then going
where those tests take them.

Figure 58 Exploratory testing

(A) What are semi-random test cases?

As the name specifies semi-random testing is nothing but controlling random

testing and removing redundant test cases. So what we do is perform random
test cases and equivalence partitioning to those test cases, which in turn
removes redundant test cases, thus giving us semi-random test cases.

Figure 59 Semi-random test cases

56 Software Testing Interview Questions

(I) What is an orthogonal arrays?

OR

(I) Can you explain a pair-wise defect?

Orthogonal array is a two-dimensional array in which if we choose any two

columns in the array and all the combinations of numbers will appear in those
columns. The following figure shows a simple L9 (34) orthogonal array. In
this the number 9 indicates that it has 9 rows. The number 4 indicates that
it has 4 columns and 3 indicates that each cell contains a 1, 2, and 3. Choose
any two columns. Let’s choose column 1 and 2. It has (1,1), (1,2), (1,3), (2,1),
(2,2), (2,3), (3,1), (3,2), (3,3) combination values. As you can see these values
cover all the values in the array. Compare the values with the combination
of column 3 and 4 and they will fall in some pair. This is applied in software
testing which helps us eliminate duplicate test cases.

Figure 60 Sample orthogonal array

Now let’s try to apply an orthogonal array in actual testing field. Let’s say
we have a scenario in which we need to test a mobile handset with different
plan types, terms, and sizes. Below are the different situations:
n Handset (Nokia, 3G and Orange).
n Plan type (4 x 400, 4 x 300, and 2 x 270).
 Testing Techniques 57

n Term (Long-term, short-term, and mid-term).

n Size (3, 4, and 5 inch).

We will also have the following testing combinations:

n  ach handset should be tested with every plan type, term, and
E
size.
n Each plan type should be tested with every handset, term, and
size.
n Each size should be tested with every handset, plan type, and
term.

So now you must be thinking we have 81 combinations. But we can test

all these conditions with only 9 test cases. The following is the orthogonal
array for it.

Figure 61 Orthogonal array in actual testing

Orthogonal arrays are very useful because most defects are pairs-wise defects
and with orthogonal arrays, we can reduce redundancy to a huge extent.
58 Software Testing Interview Questions

(I) Can you explain decision tables?

As the name suggests they are tables that list all possible inputs and all possible
outputs. A general form of decision table is shown in the following figure.
Condition 1 through Condition N indicates various input conditions. Action 1
through Condition N are actions that should be taken depending on various
input combinations. Each rule defines unique combinations of conditions
that result in actions associated with that rule.

Figure 62 General decision tables

The following is a sample decision table for a discount which depends on

age. Discounts are only allowed if you are married or a student. The following is
the decision table accordingly. Using the decision table we have also derived our
test cases. Because this is a sample example we cannot see the importance of the

Figure 63 Discount Decision table

 Testing Techniques 59

decision table. But just imagine that you have a huge amount of possible inputs
and outputs. For such a scenario decision tables gives you a better view.
The following is the decision table for the scenarios described above. In
the top part we have put the condition and below are the actions which occur
as a result of the conditions. Read from the right and move to the left and
then to the action. For instance, Married ‡ Yes ‡ then discount. The same
goes for the student condition. Using the decision table we can ensure, to a
good extent, that we do not skip any validation in a project.

Figure 64 Test cases from the above decision tables

(B) How did you define severity ratings in your

project?

Note: Severity ratings vary from organization to organization and project to

project. But most organizations have four kinds of severity rating as shown.

There are four types of severity ratings as shown in the table:

Figure 65 Severity rating in projects

60 Software Testing Interview Questions

n  everity 1 (showstoppers): These kinds of defects do not

S
allow the application to move ahead. So they are also called
showstopper defects.
n Severity 2 (application continues with severe defects):
Application continues working with these types of defects,
but they can have high implications, later, which can be more
difficult to remove.
n Severity 3 (application continues with unexpected results): In
this scenario the application continues but with unexpected
results.
n Severity 4 (suggestions): Defects with these severities are
suggestions given by the customer to make the application
better. These kinds of defects have the least priority and
are considered at the end of the project or during the
maintenance stage of the project.
 T he

Chapter 3 S oft ware

P rocess

(B) What is a software process?

A software process is a series of steps used to solve a problem. The following

figure shows a pictorial view of how an organization has defined a way to
solve risk problems. In the diagram we have shown two branches: one is

Figure 66 Software process

61
62 Software Testing Interview Questions

the process and the second branch shows a sample risk mitigation process
for an organization. For instance, the risk mitigation process defines what
step any department should follow to mitigate a risk. The process is as
follows:

n I dentify the risk of the project by discussion, proper

requirement gathering, and forecasting.
n Once you have identified the risk prioritize which risk has the
most impact and should be tackled on a priority basis.
n Analyze how the risk can be solved by proper impact analysis
and planning.
n Finally, using the above analysis, we mitigate the risk.

(I)  hat are the different cost elements involved

W
in implementing a process in an organization?

Below are some of the cost elements involved in the implementing process:

n  alary: This forms the major component of implementing

S
any process, the salary of the employees. Normally while
implementing a process in a company either organization can
recruit full-time people or they can share resources part-time
for implementing the process.
n Consultant: If the process is new it can also involve consultants
which is again an added cost.
n Training Costs: Employees of the company may also have to
undergo training in order to implement the new process.
n Tools: In order to implement the process an organization will
also need to buy tools which again need to be budgeted for.

Note: Implementing a process is not an easy job in any organization. More

than financial commitment, it requires commitment from people to follow
the process.
 The Software Process 63

Figure 67 Cost of implementing a process

(B) What is a model?

A model is nothing but best practices followed in an industry to solve issues

and problems. Models are not made in a day but are finalized and realized
by years of experience and continuous improvements.

Figure 68 Model

Many companies reinvent the wheel rather than following time tested
models in the industry.
64 Software Testing Interview Questions

(B) What is a maturity level?

A maturity level specifies the level of performance expected from an

organization.

Figure 69 Maturity level

(B) Can you explain process areas in CMMI?

A process area is the area of improvement defined by CMMI. Every maturity

level consists of process areas. A process area is a group of practices or activities
performed collectively to achieve a specific objective. For instance, you can
see from the following figure we have process areas such as project planning,
configuration management, and requirement gathering.

Figure 70 Process areas in action

 The Software Process 65

(B) Can you explain tailoring?

As the name suggests, tailoring is nothing but changing an action to achieve

an objective according to conditions. Whenever tailoring is done there
should be adequate reasons for it. Remember when a process is defined in
an organization it should be followed properly. So even if tailoring is applied
the process is not bypassed or omitted.

Figure 71 Tailoring

Let’s try to understand this using a simple example. Let’s say in a

organization there is a process defined that every contract should have
a hard copy signed. But there can be scenarios in the organization when the
person is not present physically, so for those scenarios the contract should
be signed through email. So in short, the process for signing a contract is not
bypassed but the process approach is tailored.

Figure 72 Example of tailoring

Chapter 4 CMMI

(B)  hat is CMMI and what’s the advantage of

W
implementing it in an organization?

CMMI stands for Capability Maturity Model Integration. It is a process

improvement approach that provides companies with the essential elements of
an effective process. CMMI can serve as a good guide for process improvement
across a project, organization, or division.
CMMI was formed by using multiple previous CMM processes. The
following are the areas which CMMI addresses:
Systems engineering: This covers development of total systems. System
engineers concentrate on converting customer needs to product solutions
and supports them throughout the product lifecycle.
Software engineering: Software engineers concentrate on the application
of systematic, disciplined, and quantifiable approaches to the development,
operation, and maintenance of software.
Integrated Product and Process Development (IPPD): Integrated
Product and Process Development (IPPD) is a systematic approach that
achieves a timely collaboration of relevant stakeholders throughout the
life of the product to better satisfy customer needs, expectations, and
requirements. This section mostly concentrates on the integration part of the
project for different processes. For instance, it’s possible that your project
is using services of some other third party component. In such situations
the integration is a big task itself, and if approached in a systematic manner,
can be handled with ease.
67
68 Software Testing Interview Questions

Software acquisition: Many times an organization has to acquire products

from other organizations. Acquisition is itself a big step for any organization
and if not handled in a proper manner means a disaster is sure to happen.
The following figure shows the areas involved in CMMI.

Figure 73 CMMI

(I)  hat’s the difference between implementation

W
and institu­tionalization?

Both of these concepts are important while implementing a process in any

organization. Any new process implemented has to go through these two
phases.
Implementation: It is just performing a task within a process area. A task
is performed according to a process but actions performed to complete the
process are not ingrained in the organization. That means the process involved
is done according to the individual point of view. When an organization starts
to implement any process it first starts at this phase, i.e., implementation, and
then when this process looks good it is raised to the organization level so that
it can be implemented across organizations.
Institutionalization: Institutionalization is the output of implementing
the process again and again. The difference between implementation and
institutionalization is in implementation if the person who implemented the
process leaves the company the process is not followed, but if the process is
institutionalized then even if the person leaves the organization, the process
is still followed.
 CMMI 69

Figure: 74 Implementation and institutionalization

(I) What are different models in CMMI?

OR

(I)  an you explain staged and continuous models

C
in CMMI?

There are two models in CMMI. The first is “staged” in which the maturity
level organizes the process areas. The second is “continuous” in which the
capability level organizes the process area.

Figure 75 CMMI models

70 Software Testing Interview Questions

The following figure shows how process areas are grouped in both
models.

Figure 76 Staged and continuous models

Let’s try to understand both the models in more detail. Before we move
ahead let’s discuss the basic structure of the CMMI process, goal, and practices.
A process area, as said previously, is a group of practices or activities performed
to achieve a specific objective. Every process area has specific as well as generic
goals that should be satisfied to achieve that objective. To achieve those goals we
need to follow certain practices. So again to achieve those specific goals we have
specific practices and to achieve generic goals we have generic practices.
In one of our previous questions we talked about implementation and
institutionalization. Implementation can be related to a specific practice while
institutionalization can be related to generics practices. This is the common
basic structure in both models: Process area ‡ Specific/Generic goals ‡
Specific/Generic practice.
Now let’s try to understand model structures with both types of
representations. In a staged representation, we revolve around the maturity
level as shown in the following figure. All processes have to be at one maturity
level, while in a continuous representation we try to achieve capability levels in
those practices. The following diagram shows how continuous representation
revolves around capability. Continuous representation is used when the
 CMMI 71

Figure 77 Staged representation

organization wants to mature and perform in one specific process area only. Let’s
say for instance in a non-IT organization we want to only improve the supplier
agreement process. So that particular organization will only concentrate on the
SAM and try to achieve a good capability level in that process area.

Figure 78 Continuous representation

72 Software Testing Interview Questions

(I)  an you explain the different maturity levels in a

C
staged representation?

There are five maturity levels in a staged representation as shown in the

following figure.
Maturity Level 1 (Initial): In this level everything is adhoc. Development is
completely chaotic with budget and schedules often exceeded. In this scenario
we can never predict quality.
Maturity Level 2 (Managed): In the managed level basic project
management is in place. But the basic project management and practices are
followed only in the project level.
Maturity Level 3 (Defined): To reach this level the organization should have
already achieved level 2. In the previous level the good practices and process
were only done at the project level. But in this level all these good practices
and processes are brought to the organization level. There are set and standard
practices defined at the organization level which every project should follow.
Maturity Level 3 moves ahead with defining a strong, meaningful, organizational
approach to developing products. An important distinction between Maturity
Levels 2 and 3 is that at Level 3, processes are described in more detail and
more rigorously than at Level 2 and are at an organization level.
Maturity Level 4 (Quantitively measured): To start with, this level of
organization should have already achieved Level 2 and Level 3. In this level,
more statistics come into the picture. Organization controls the project
by statistical and other quantitative techniques. Product quality, process
performance, and service quality are understood in statistical terms and are
managed throughout the life of the processes. Maturity Level 4 concentrates
on using metrics to make decisions and to truly measure whether progress is
happening and the product is becoming better. The main difference between
Levels 3 and 4 are that at Level 3, processes are qualitatively predictable. At
Level 4, processes are quantitatively predictable. Level 4 addresses causes of
process variation and takes corrective action.
Maturity Level 5 (Optimized): The organization has achieved goals of
maturity levels 2, 3, and 4. In this level, processes are continually improved
based on an understanding of common causes of variation within the processes.
This is like the final level; everyone on the team is a productive member,
defects are minimized, and products are delivered on time and within the
budget boundary.
 CMMI 73

The following figure shows, in detail, all the maturity levels in a

pictorial fashion.

Figure 79 Maturity level in staged model

(I)  an you explain capability levels in a continuous

C
representation?

The continuous model is the same as the staged model only that the arrangement
is a bit different. The continuous representation/model concentrates on the
action or task to be completed within a process area. It focuses on maturing
the organizations ability to perform, control, and improve the performance
in that specific performance area.

Capability Level 0: Incomplete

This level means that any generic or specific practice of capability level 1 is
not performed.

Capability Level 1: Performed

The capability level 1 process is expected to perform all capability level 1
specific and generic practices for that process area. In this level performance
74 Software Testing Interview Questions

may not be stable and probably does not meet objectives such as quality, cost,
and schedule, but still the task can be done.

Capability Level 2: Managed

Capability level 2 is a managed process planned properly, performed,
monitored, and controlled to achieve a given purpose. Because the process
is managed we achieve other objectives, such as cost, schedule, and quality.
Because you are managing, certain metrics are consistently collected and
applied to your management approach.

Capability Level 3: Defined

The defined process is a managed process that is tailored from an organization
standard. Tailoring is done by justification and documentation guidelines. For
instance your organization may have a standard that we should get an invoice
from every supplier. But if the supplier is not able to supply the invoice then
he should sign an agreement in place of the invoice. So here the invoice
standard is not followed but the deviation is under control.

Capability Level 4: Quantitatively Managed

The quantitatively managed process is a defined process which is controlled
through statistical and quantitative information. So from defect tracking to
project schedules all are statistically tracked and measured for that process.

Figure 80 Capability levels in a continuous model

 CMMI 75

Capability Level 5: Optimizing

The optimizing process is a quantitatively managed process where we
increase process performance through incremental and innovative
improvements.
Continuous representation is the same as staged only that information is
arranged in a different fashion. The biggest difference is one concentrates
on a specific process while the other brings a group of processes to a certain
maturity level.

(I)  hich model should we use and under what

W
scenarios?

Staging defines an organization process implementation sequence. So

staging is a sequence of targeted process areas that describe a path of process
improvement the organization will take. For instance, you cannot do your
project planning (Level 2) if you have not done requirements management
(Level 2). While in the continuous model you select certain process areas even
if they’re linked with other process areas and mature there.
So when your organization should only concentrate on specific process
areas you will likely go for the continuous model. But if you want your
organization to have a specific plan and to achieve not only the specific process
but also any interlinked process within that process area you should go for
the continuous model.

(A) How many process areas are present in CMMI and

what classification do they fall in?

All 25 process areas in CMMI are classified into four major sections.

Process management
This process areas contain all project tasks related to defining, planning,
executing, implementing, monitoring, controlling, measuring, and making
better processes.
76 Software Testing Interview Questions

Project Management
Project management process areas cover the project management activities
related to planning, monitoring, and controlling the project.

Engineering
Engineering process areas were written using general engineering terminology
so that any technical discipline involved in the product development process
(e.g., software engineering or mechanical engineering) can use them for
process improvement.

Support
Support process areas address processes that are used in the context of
performing other processes. In general, the support process areas address
processes that are targeted toward the project and may address processes
that apply more generally to the organization. For example, process and
product quality assurance can be used with all the process areas to provide
an objective evaluation of the processes and work products described in all
the process areas.
The following diagram shows the classification and representation of the
process areas.

Figure 81 The 25 Process areas

 CMMI 77

The following table defines all the abbreviations of the process areas.

Figure 82 Abbreviations of all the process areas

(B) Can you define all the levels in CMMI?

Level 1 and Level 2

These levels are the biggest steps for any organization because the organization
moves from a immature position to a more mature organization. Level 1 is an
adhoc process in which people have created a personal process to accomplish
a certain task. With this approach there is a lot of redundant work and people
do not share their information. This leads to heroes’ in the project, so when
people move out of the organization the knowledge also moves out, and the
organization suffers.
In maturity level 2 individuals share their lessons and best practices, which
leads to devising preliminary processes at the project and in some cases it also
moves to the organization level. In level 2 we focus on project management
78 Software Testing Interview Questions

issues that affect day to day routines. It has seven process areas as shown in
the figure below.
So in the short difference between level 1 and level 2 is related to immature
and mature organizations.

Figure 83 From level 1 to Level 2

Level 2 to Level 3
Now that in Level 2 good practices are observed at the project level, it is time
to move these good practices to the organization level so that every one can
benefit from the same. So the biggest difference between Level 2 and Level 3
is good practices from the projects that are bubbled up to organization level.
The organization approach of doing business is documented. To perform
Maturity level 3, first Maturity 2 must be achieved with the 14 processes as
shown in the given figure.

Figure 84 Level 2 to Level 3

 CMMI 79

Level 3 to Level 4
Maturity level 4 is all about numbers and statistics. All aspects of the project
are managed by numbers. All decisions are made by numbers. Product quality
and process are measured by numbers. So in Level 3 we say this is of good
quality; in Level 4 we say this is of good quality because the defect ratio is less
than 1 %. So there are two process areas in Level 4 as shown below. In order
to move to Level 4, you should have achieved all the PA’s of Level 3 and also
the two process areas below.

Figure 85 Level 3 to Level 4

Level 4 to Level 5
Level 5 is all about improvement as compared to Level 4. Level 5 concentrates
on improving quality of organization process by identifying variation, by
looking at root causes of the conditions and incorporating improvements for

Figure 86 Level 4 to Level 5

80 Software Testing Interview Questions

improve process. Below are the two process areas in Level 5 as shown in figure
below. In order to get level 5 all level 4 PA’s should be satisfied. So the basic
difference between level 4 and level 5 is in Level 4 we have already achieved
a good level of quality, and in level 5 we are trying to improve the quality.

(I)  hat different sources are needed to verify

W
authenticity for CMMI implementation?

There are three different sources from which an appraiser can verify that an
organization followed the process or not.
Instruments: An instrument is a survey or questionnaire provided to the
organization, project, or individuals before starting the assessment so that
beforehand the appraiser knows some basic details of the project.
Interview: An interview is a formal meeting between one or more members
of the organization in which they are asked some questions and the appraiser
makes some judgments based on those interviews. During the interview the
member represents some process area or role which he performs. For instance,
the appraiser may interview a tester or programmer asking him indirectly what
metrics he has submitted to his project manager. By this the appraiser gets a
fair idea of CMMI implementation in that organization.
Documents: A document is a written work or product which serves as evidence
that a process is followed. It can be hard copy, Word document, email, or any
type of written official proof.
The following figure is the pictorial view of the sources used to verify how
compliant the organization is with CMMI.

Figure 87 Different data sources used for verification

 CMMI 81

(I) Can you explain the SCAMPI process?

OR

(I) How is appraisal done in CMMI?

SCAMPI stands for Standard CMMI Appraisal Method for Process

Improvement. SCAMPI is an assessment process used to get CMMI certified
for an organization. There are three classes of CMMI appraisal methods:
Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A is the most aggressive, while Class B
is less aggressive, and Class C is the least aggressive.

Figure 88 SCAMPI

Let’s discuss these appraisal methods in more detail.

Class A: This is the only method that can provide a rating and get you a CMMI
certificate. It requires all three sources of data instruments, interviews, and
documents.
Class B: This class requires only two sources of data (interviews and
either documents or instruments). But please note you do not get rated with
Class B appraisals. Class B is just a warm-up to see if an organization is ready
for Class A. With less verification the appraisal takes less time. In this class
data sufficiency and draft presentations are optional.
Class C: This class requires only one source of data (interviews, instruments,
or documents). Team consensus, validation, observation, data sufficiency, and
draft presentation are optional.
82 Software Testing Interview Questions

The following table shows the characteristic features with proper

comparison.

Figure 89 Comparison between Class A, B, and C

(I) Which appraisal method class is best?

Normally, organizations use a mix of the classes to achieve process improvement.

The following are some of the strategies which an organization uses:

First Strategy
Use Class B to initiate a process improvement plan. After that apply Class C
to check readiness for Class B or Class A. The following diagram shows this
strategy.

Figure 90 Strategy one

 CMMI 83

Second Strategy
Class C appraisal is used on a subset of an organization. From this we get an
aggregation of weakness across the organization. From this we can prepare a
process improvement plan. We can then apply a Class B appraisal to see if we
are ready for Class A appraisal. The following diagram shows the strategy.

Figure 91 Second strategy

Third Strategy
Class A is used to initiate an organization level process. The process
improvement plan is based on an identified weakness. Class B appraisal should
be performed after six months to see the readiness for the second Class A
appraisal rating. The following diagram shows this strategy.

Figure 92 Third strategy

84 Software Testing Interview Questions

(I) Can you explain the importance of PII in SCAMPI?

Using PII (Practice Implementation Indicators) we find information

about the organization. PII gives us a compliance matrix showing how
practices are performed in an organization. PII basically consists of three
types of information: direct work products, indirect work products, and
affirmations. Direct work products and indirect work products come from
documents while affirmations come from interviews. The following table
shows sample PII information for the SAM process and for one of the key
process areas.

Figure 93 Sample PIID

Once the PII documents are filed we can rate whether the organization
is compliant or not. Below are the steps to be followed during the
SCAMPI:

n Gather documentation.
n Conduct interviews.
n Discover and document strengths and weaknesses.
n Communicate/present findings.
 CMMI 85

(A)  an you explain implementation of CMMI in one of

C
the Key process areas?

Note: This question will be asked to judge whether you have actually
implemented CMMI in a proper fashion in your oganization. To answer this
question, we will be using SAM as the process area. But you can answer with
whatever process area you have implemented in your organization.

For the following SAM process there are the two SG1 and SG2 practices which
need to be implemented to satisfy the process area. SAM helps us to define
our agreement with the supplier while procuring products in the company.
Let’s see, in the next step, how we have mapped our existing process with the
SAM practices defined in CMMI.

Figure 94 SAM process area

86 Software Testing Interview Questions

SAM is a process adopted by the company. If anyone wants to demand

any product he has to first raise demand for the item by using the demand
form which is defined by the company. Depending on demand the supervisor
defines which acquisition type the demand is. For instance, is it a production
acquisition type, office material acquisition type, or another type. Once the
acquisition type is decided the organization places an advertisement in the
newspaper to ask suppliers for quotes. Once all quotations are received
depending on cost, quality, and other factors the final supplier is decided. The
supplier is then called to the office and he has to sign an agreement with the
organization for the delivery of the product. Once the agreement is signed
the supplier sends a sample product which is analyzed by the organization
practically. Finally, the product is accepted and the supplier is then asked to

Figure 95 SAM process area mapped

 CMMI 87

send the complete delivery of all products. The product is accepted in the
organization by issuing the supplier a proper invoice. The invoice document
says that the product is accepted by the organization officially. When the
product is installed in the organization then either someone from the supplier
side comes for the demo or a help brochure is shipped with the product.
The above explanation is from the perspective of the how the organization
manages its transactions with the supplier. Now let’s try to map how the above
process fits in the CMMI model. In the above diagram the circled descriptions
are process areas of CMMI.

CMMI process Organization process

Determine acquisition type In the above process the demand form
decides what the acquisition type of the
product is.
Select suppliers Looking at the quotation the supplier is
reviewed and the selection is done.
Establish supplier agreements In the above process we have a step when
we sign an agreement with the supplier
which establishes all the terms and
conditions for the supplier agreement.
Review product One of the steps of the process is that the
supplier has to send a sample which is
reviewed by the organization.
Execute supplier agreements The supplier agreement is executed by
accepting the invoice.
Accept acquired product The invoice is the proof of acceptance of
the product.
Transition products In the above process the transition of the
product either happens through help
brochures or when the demo person
visits.
88 Software Testing Interview Questions

(B) what are all the process areas and goals and
practices?

OR

(A) Can you explain all the process areas?

Note: No one is going to ask such a question, but they would like to know at
least the purpose of each KPA. Second, they would like to know what you did to
attain compatibility in these process areas. For instance, you say that you did an
organizational process. They would like to know how you did it. You can justify
it by saying that you made standard documents for coding standards which was
then followed at the organization level for reference. Normally everyone follows
a process; only they do not realize it. So try to map the KPA to the process that
you followed.

Each process area is defined by a set of goals and practices. There are two
categories of goals and practices: generic and specific. Generic goals and
practices are a part of every process area. Specific goals and practices are
specific to a given process area. A process area is satisfied when company
processes cover all of the generic and specific goals and practices for that
process area.
Generic goals and practices are a part of every process area. They include
the following:
GG 1 Achieve Specific Goals
GP 1.1 Perform Base Practices
GG 2 Institutionalize a Managed Process
GP 2.1 Establish an Organizational Policy
GP 2.2 Plan the Process
GP 2.3 Provide Resources
GP 2.4 Assign Responsibility
GP 2.5 Train People
GP 2.6 Manage Configurations
GP 2.7 Identify and Involve Relevant Stakeholders
GP 2.8 Monitor and Control the Process
GP 2.9 Objectively Evaluate Adherence
 CMMI 89

GP 2.10 Review Status with Higher Level Management

GG 3 Institutionalize a Defined Process
GP 3.1 Establish a Defined Process
GP 3.2 Collect Improvement Information
GG 4 Institutionalize a Quantitatively Managed Process
GP 4.1 Establish Quantitative Objectives for the Process
GP 4.2 Stabilize Sub process Performance
GG 5 Institutionalize an Optimizing Process
GP 5.1 Ensure Continuous Process Improvement
GP 5.2 Correct Root Causes of Problems

Process Areas
The CMMI contains 25 key process areas indicating the aspects of product
development that are to be covered by company processes.

Causal Analysis and Resolution (CAR)

A support process area at Maturity Level 5.

Purpose
The purpose of Causal Analysis and Resolution (CAR) is to identify causes of
defects and other problems and take action to prevent them from occurring
in the future.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Determine Causes of Defects
SP 1.1-1 Select Defect Data for Analysis
SP 1.2-1 Analyze Causes
SG 2 Address Causes of Defects
SP 2.1-1 Implement the Action Proposals
SP 2.2-1 Evaluate the Effect of Changes
SP 2.3-1 Record Data

Configuration Management (CM)

A support process area at Maturity Level 2.
90 Software Testing Interview Questions

Purpose
The purpose of Configuration Management (CM) is to establish and maintain
the integrity of work products using configuration identification, configuration
control, configuration status accounting, and configuration audits.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Establish Baselines
SP 1.1-1 Identify Configuration Items
SP 1.2-1 Establish a Configuration Management System
SP 1.3-1 Create or Release Baselines
SG 2 Track and Control Changes
SP 2.1-1 Track Change Requests
SP 2.2-1 Control Configuration Items
SG 3 Establish Integrity
SP 3.1-1 Establish Configuration Management Records
SP 3.2-1 Perform Configuration Audits

Decision Analysis and Resolution (DAR)

A support process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of Decision Analysis and Resolution (DAR) is to analyze
possible decisions using a formal evaluation process that evaluates identified
alternatives against established criteria.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Evaluate Alternatives
SP 1.1-1 Establish Guidelines for Decision Analysis
SP 1.2-1 Establish Evaluation Criteria
SP 1.3-1 Identify Alternative Solutions
SP 1.4-1 Select Evaluation Methods
SP 1.5-1 Evaluate Alternatives
SP 1.6-1 Select Solutions

Integrated Project Management (IPM)

A Project Management process area at Maturity Level 3.
 CMMI 91

Purpose
The purpose of Integrated Project Management (IPM) is to establish and
manage the project and the involvement of the relevant stakeholders according
to an integrated and defined process that is tailored from the organization’s
set of standard processes.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Use the Project’s Defined Process
SP 1.1-1 Establish the Project’s Defined Process
SP 1.2-1 Use Organizational Process Assets for Planning Project
Activities
SP 1.3-1 Integrate Plans
SP 1.4-1 Manage the Project Using the Integrated Plans
SP 1.5-1 Contribute to the Organizational Process Assets
SG 2 Coordinate and Collaborate with Relevant Stakeholders
SP 2.1-1 Manage Stakeholder Involvement
SP 2.2-1 Manage Dependencies
SP 2.3-1 Resolve Coordination Issues
SG 3 Use the Project’s Shared Vision for IPPD
SP 3.1-1 Define a Project’s Shared Vision for IPPD
SP 3.2-1 Establish the Project’s Shared Vision
SG 4 Organize Integrated Teams for IPPD
SP 4.1-1 Determine Integrated Team Structure for the Project
SP 4.2-1 Develop a Preliminary Distribution of Requirements to
Integrated Teams
SP 4.3-1 Establish Integrated Teams

Integrated Supplier Management (ISM)

A project management process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of Integrated Supplier Management (ISM) is to proactively identify
sources of products that may be used to satisfy the project’s requirements and
to manage selected suppliers while maintaining a cooperative project-supplier
relationship.
92 Software Testing Interview Questions

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Analyze and Select Sources of Products
SP 1.1-1 Analyze Potential Sources of Products
SP 1.2-1 Evaluate and Determine Sources of Products
SG 2 Coordinate Work with Suppliers
SP 2.1-1 Monitor Selected Supplier Processes
SP 2.2-1 Evaluate Selected Supplier Work Products
SP 2.3-1 Revise the Supplier Agreement or Relationship

Integrated Teaming (IT)

A Project Management process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of Integrated Teaming (IT) is to form and sustain an integrated
team for the development of work products.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Establish Team Composition
SP 1.1-1 Identify Team Tasks
SP 1.2-1 Identify Needed Knowledge and Skills
SP 1.3-1 Assign Appropriate Team Members
SG 2 Govern Team Operation
SP 2.1-1 Establish a Shared Vision
SP 2.2-1 Establish a Team Charter
SP 2.3-1 Define Roles and Responsibilities
SP 2.4-1 Establish Operating Procedures
SP 2.5-1 Collaborate among Interfacing Teams

Measurement and Analysis (MA)

A support process area at Maturity Level 2.

Purpose
The purpose of Measurement and Analysis (MA) is to develop and sustain
a measurement capability that is used to support management information
needs.
 CMMI 93

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Align Measurement and Analysis Activities
SP 1.1-1 Establish Measurement Objectives
SP 1.2-1 Specify Measures
SP 1.3-1 Specify Data Collection and Storage Procedures
SP 1.4-1 Specify Analysis Procedures
SG 2 Provide Measurement Results
SP 2.1-1 Collect Measurement Data
SP 2.2-1 Analyze Measurement Data
SP 2.3-1 Store Data and Results
SP 2.4-1 Communicate Results
Organizational Environment for Integration (OEI)
A support process area at Maturity Level 3.
Purpose
The purpose of Organizational Environment for Integration (OEI) is to provide
an Integrated Product and Process Development (IPPD) infrastructure and
manage people for integration.
Specific Practices by Goal
SG 1 Provide IPPD Infrastructure
SP 1.1-1 Establish the Organization’s Shared Vision
SP 1.2-1 Establish an Integrated Work Environment
SP 1.3-1 Identify IPPD-Unique Skill Requirements
SG 2 Manage People for Integration
SP 2.1-1 Establish Leadership Mechanisms
SP 2.2-1 Establish Incentives for Integration
SP 2.3-1 Establish Mechanisms to Balance Team and Home Organization
Responsibilities
Organizational Innovation and Deployment (OID)
A Process Management process area at Maturity Level 5.
Purpose
The purpose of Organizational Innovation and Deployment (OID) is to
select and deploy incremental and innovative improvements that measurably
improve the organization’s processes and technologies. The improvements
94 Software Testing Interview Questions

support the organization’s quality and process-performance objectives as

derived from the organization’s business objectives.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Select Improvements
SP 1.1-1 Collect and Analyze Improvement Proposals
SP 1.2-1 Identify and Analyze Innovations
SP 1.3-1 Pilot Improvements
SP 1.4-1 Select Improvements for Deployment
SG 2 Deploy Improvements
SP 2.1-1 Plan the Deployment Areas
SP 2.2-1 Manage the Deployment
SP 2.3-1 Measure Improvement Effects

Organizational Process Definition (OPD)

A process management process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of the Organizational Process Definition (OPD) is to establish
and maintain a usable set of organizational process assets.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Establish Organizational Process Assets
SP 1.1-1 Establish Standard Processes
SP 1.2-1 Establish Life-Cycle Model Descriptions
SP 1.3-1 Establish Tailoring Criteria and Guidelines
SP 1.4-1 Establish the Organization’s Measurement Repository
SP 1.5-1 Establish the Organization’s Process Asset Library

Organizational Process Focus (OPF)

A process management process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of Organizational Process Focus (OPF) is to plan and implement
organizational process improvement based on a thorough understanding of
 CMMI 95

the current strengths and weaknesses of the organization’s processes and

process assets.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Determine Process Improvement Opportunities
SP 1.1-1 Establish Organizational Process Needs
SP 1.2-1 Appraise the Organization’s Processes
SP 1.3-1 Identify the Organization’s Process Improvements
SG 2 Plan and Implement Process Improvement Activities
SP 2.1-1 Establish Process Action Plans
SP 2.2-1 Implement Process Action Plans
SP 2.3-1 Deploy Organizational Process Assets
SP 2.4-1 Incorporate Process-Related Experiences into the
Organizational Process Assets

Organizational Process Performance (OPP)

A Process Management process area at Maturity Level 4.

Purpose
The purpose of Organizational Process Performance (OPP) is to establish and
maintain a quantitative understanding of the performance of the organization’s
set of standard processes in support of quality and process-performance
objectives, and to provide the process performance data, baselines, and models
to quantitatively manage the organization’s projects.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Establish Performance Baselines and Models
SP 1.1-1 Select Processes
SP 1.2-1 Establish Process Performance Measures
SP 1.3-1 Establish Quality and Process Performance Objectives
SP 1.4-1 Establish Process Performance Baselines
SP 1.5-1 Establish Process Performance Models

Organizational Training (OT)

A process management process area at Maturity Level 3.
96 Software Testing Interview Questions

Purpose
The purpose of Organizational Training (OT) is to develop the skills and
knowledge of people so that they can perform their roles effectively and
efficiently.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Establish an Organizational Training Capability
SP 1.1-1 Establish the Strategic Training Needs
SP 1.2-1 Determine Which Training Needs Are the Responsibility of the
Organization
SP 1.3-1 Establish an Organizational Training Tactical Plan
SP 1.4-1 Establish Training Capability
SG 2 Provide Necessary Training
SP 2.1-1 Deliver Training
SP 2.2-1 Establish Training Records
SP 2.3-1 Assess Training Effectiveness

Product Integration (PI)

An engineering process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of Product Integration (PI) is to assemble the product from the
product components, ensure that the product is integrated, functions properly,
and delivers the product.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Prepare for Product Integration
SP 1.1-1 Determine Integration Sequence
SP 1.2-1 Establish the Product Integration Environment
SP 1.3-1 Establish Product Integration Procedures and Criteria
SG 2 Ensure Interface Compatibility
SP 2.1-1 Review Interface Descriptions for Completeness
SP 2.2-1 Manage Interfaces
SG 3 Assemble Product Components and Deliver the Product
SP 3.1-1 Confirm Readiness of Product Components for Integration
 CMMI 97

SP 3.2-1 Assemble Product Components

SP 3.3-1 Evaluate Assembled Product Components
SP 3.4-1 Package and Deliver the Product or Product Component

Project Monitoring and Control (PMC)

A project management process area at Maturity Level 2.

Purpose
The purpose of Project Monitoring and Control (PMC) is to provide an
understanding of the project’s progress so that appropriate corrective actions can
be taken when the project’s performance deviates significantly from the plan.

Specific Practices by Goals

SG 1 Monitor Project Against the Plan
SP 1.1-1 Monitor Project Planning Parameters
SP 1.2-1 Monitor Commitments
SP 1.3-1 Monitor Project Risks
SP 1.4-1 Monitor Data Management
SP 1.5-1 Monitor Stakeholder Involvement
SP 1.6-1 Conduct Progress Reviews
SP 1.7-1 Conduct Milestone Reviews
SG 2 Manage Corrective Action to Closure
SP 2.1-1 Analyze Issues
SP 2.2-1 Take Corrective Action
SP 2.3-1 Manage Corrective Action

Project Planning (PP)

A project management process area at Maturity Level 2.
Purpose
The purpose of Project Planning (PP) is to establish and maintain plans that
define project activities.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Establish Estimates
SP 1.1-1 Estimate the Scope of the Project
98 Software Testing Interview Questions

SP 1.2-1 Establish Estimates of Work Product and Task Attributes

SP 1.3-1 Define Project Life Cycle
SP 1.4-1 Determine Estimates of Effort and Cost
SG 2 Develop a Project Plan
SP 2.1-1 Establish the Budget and Schedule
SP 2.2-1 Identify Project Risks
SP 2.3-1 Plan for Data Management
SP 2.4-1 Plan for Project Resources
SP 2.5-1 Plan for Needed Knowledge and Skills
SP 2.6-1 Plan Stakeholder Involvement
SP 2.7-1 Establish the Project Plan
SG 3 Obtain Commitment to the Plan
SP 3.1-1 Review Plans that Affect the Project
SP 3.2-1 Reconcile Work and Resource Levels
SP 3.3-1 Obtain Plan Commitment

Process and Product Quality Assurance (PPQA)

A support process area at Maturity Level 2.

Purpose
The purpose of Process and Product Quality Assurance (PPQA) is to provide
staff and management with objective insight into processes and associated
work products.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Objectively Evaluate Processes and Work Products
SP 1.1-1 Objectively Evaluate Processes
SP 1.2-1 Objectively Evaluate Work Products and Services
SG 2 Provide Objective Insight
SP 2.1-1 Communicate and Ensure Resolution of Noncompliance
Issues
SP 2.2-1 Establish Records

Quantitative Project Management (QPM)

A Project Management process area at Maturity Level 4.
 CMMI 99

Purpose
The purpose of the Quantitative Project Management (QPM) process area is
to quantitatively manage the project’s defined process to achieve the project’s
established quality and process-performance objectives.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Quantitatively Manage the Project
SP 1.1-1 Establish the Project’s Objectives
SP 1.2-1 Compose the Defined Processes
SP 1.3-1 Select the Sub processes that Will Be Statistically Managed
SP 1.4-1 Manage Project Performance
SG 2 Statistically Manage Sub-process Performance
SP 2.1-1 Select Measures and Analytic Techniques
SP 2.2-1 Apply Statistical Methods to Understand Variation
SP 2.3-1 Monitor Performance of the Selected Sub-processes
SP 2.4-1 Record Statistical Management Data

Requirements Development (RD)

An engineering process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of Requirements Development (RD) is to produce and analyze
customer, product, and product-component requirements.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Develop Customer Requirements
SP 1.1-1 Collect Stakeholder Needs
SP 1.1-2 Elicit Needs
SP 1.2-1 Develop the Customer Requirements
SG 2 Develop Product Requirements
SP 2.1-1 Establish Product and Product-Component Requirements
SP 2.2-1 Allocate Product-Component Requirements
SP 2.3-1 Identify Interface Requirements
SG 3 Analyze and Validate Requirements
100 Software Testing Interview Questions

SP 3.1-1 Establish Operational Concepts and Scenarios

SP 3.2-1 Establish a Definition of Required Functionality
SP 3.3-1 Analyze Requirements
SP 3.4-3 Analyze Requirements to Achieve Balance
SP 3.5-1 Validate Requirements
SP 3.5-2 Validate Requirements with Comprehensive Methods

Requirements Management (REQM)

An engineering process area at Maturity Level 2.

Purpose
The purpose of Requirements Management (REQM) is to manage the
requirements of the project’s products and product components and to
identify inconsistencies between those requirements and the project’s plans
and work products.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Manage Requirements
SP 1.1-1 Obtain an Understanding of Requirements
SP 1.2-2 Obtain Commitment to Requirements
SP 1.3-1 Manage Requirements Changes
SP 1.4-2 Maintain Bidirectional Traceability of Requirements
SP 1.5-1 Identify Inconsistencies between Project Work and
Requirements

Risk Management (RSKM)

A project management process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of Risk Management (RSKM) is to identify potential problems
before they occur so that risk-handling activities can be planned and invoked
as needed across the life of the product or project to mitigate adverse impacts
on achieving objectives.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Prepare for Risk Management
SP 1.1-1 Determine Risk Sources and Categories
 CMMI 101

SP 1.2-1 Define Risk Parameters

SP 1.3-1 Establish a Risk Management Strategy
SG 2 Identify and Analyze Risks
SP 2.1-1 Identify Risks
SP 2.2-1 Evaluate, Categorize, and Prioritize Risks
SG 3 Mitigate Risks
SP 3.1-1 Develop Risk Mitigation Plans
SP 3.2-1 Implement Risk Mitigation Plans

Supplier Agreement Management (SAM)

A project management process area at Maturity Level 2.

Purpose
The purpose of the Supplier Agreement Management (SAM) is to manage
the acquisition of products from suppliers for which there exists a formal
agreement.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Establish Supplier Agreements
SP 1.1-1 Determine Acquisition Type
SP 1.2-1 Select Suppliers
SP 1.3-1 Establish Supplier Agreements
SG 2 Satisfy Supplier Agreements
SP 2.1-1 Review COTS Products
SP 2.2-1 Execute the Supplier Agreement
SP 2.3-1 Accept the Acquired Product
SP 2.4-1 Transition Products

Technical Solution (TS)

An engineering process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of the Technical Solution (TS) is to design, develop, and
implement solutions to requirements. Solutions, designs, and implementations
encompass products, product components, and product-related life-cycle
processes either alone or in appropriate combinations.
102 Software Testing Interview Questions

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Select Product-Component Solutions
SP 1.1-1 Develop Alternative Solutions and Selection Criteria
SP 1.1-2 Develop Detailed Alternative Solutions and Selection
Criteria
SP 1.2-2 Evolve Operational Concepts and Scenarios
SP 1.3-1 Select Product-Component Solutions
SG 2 Develop the Design
SP 2.1-1 Design the Product or Product Component
SP 2.2-3 Establish a Technical Data Package
SP 2.3-1 Establish Interface Descriptions
SP 2.3-3 Design Interfaces Using Criteria
SP 2.4-3 Perform Make, Buy, or Reuse Analyses
SG 3 Implement the Product Design
SP 3.1-1 Implement the Design
SP 3.2-1 Develop Product Support

Documentation Validation (VAL)

An engineering process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of Validation (VAL) is to demonstrate that a product or
product component fulfills its intended use when placed in its intended
environment.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Prepare for Validation
SP 1.1-1 Select Products for Validation
SP 1.2-2 Establish the Validation Environment
SP 1.3-3 Establish Validation Procedures and Criteria
SG 2 Validate Product or Product Components
SP 2.1-1 Perform Validation
SP 2.2-1 Analyze Validation Results
 CMMI 103

Verification (VER)
An engineering process area at Maturity Level 3.

Purpose
The purpose of Verification (VER) is to ensure that a selected work product
meets their specified requirements.

Specific Practices by Goal

SG 1 Prepare for Verification
SP 1.1-1 Select Work Products for Verification
SP 1.2-2 Establish the Verification Environment
SP 1.3-3 Establish Verification Procedures and Criteria
SG 2 Perform Peer Reviews
SP 2.1-1 Prepare for Peer Reviews
SP 2.2-1 Conduct Peer Reviews
SP 2.3-2 Analyze Peer Review Data
SG 3 Verify Selected Work Products
SP 3.1-1 Perform Verification
SP 3.2-2 Analyze Verification Results and Identify Corrective
Action.
Chapter 5 S ix S igma

(B) What is Six Sigma?

Six Sigma is a statistical measure of variation in a process. We say a process

has achieved Six Sigma if the quality is 3.4 DPMO (Defect per Million
Opportunities). It’s a problem-solving methodology that can be applied to a
process to eliminate the root cause of defects and costs associated with it.

Figure 96 Six Sigma

(I)  an you explain the different methodology

C
for the execution and the design process stages
in Six Sigma?

The main focus of Six Sigma is to reduce defects and variations in the processes.
DMAIC and DMADV are the models used in most Six Sigma initiatives.

105
106 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 97 Methodology in Six Sigma

DMADV is the model for designing processes while DMAIC is used for
improving the process.
The DMADV model includes the following five steps:

n  efine: Determine the project goals and the requirements of

D
customers (external and internal).
n Measure: Assess customer needs and specifications.
n Analyze: Examine process options to meet customer
requirements.
n Design: Develop the process to meet the customer
requirements.
n Verify: Check the design to ensure that it’s meeting customer
requirements

The DMAIC model includes the following five steps:

n  efine the projects, goals, and deliverables to customers

D
(internal and external). Describe and quantify both the defects
and the expected improvements.
n Measure the current performance of the process. Validate data
to make sure it is credible and set the baselines.
 Six Sigma 107

Figure 98 DMAIC and DMADV

n  nalyze and determine the root cause(s) of the defects.

A
Narrow the causal factors to the vital few.
n Improve the process to eliminate defects. Optimize the vital
few and their interrelationships.
n Control the performance of the process. Lock down the gains.

(I)  hat are executive leaders, champions, master

W
black belts, green belts, and black belts?

Six Sigma is not only about techniques, tools, and statistics, but also about
people. In Six Sigma there are five key players:

n Executive leaders
n Champions
n Master black belts
n Black belts
n Green belts
108 Software Testing Interview Questions

Let’s try to understand the role of the players step by step.

Executive leaders: They are the main people who actually decide that
we need to do Six Sigma. They promote it throughout the organization and
ensure commitment of the organization. Executive leaders are mainly either
CEOs or from the board of directors. So, in short, they are the people who
fund the Six Sigma initiative. They should believe that Six Sigma will improve
the organization process and that they will succeed. They should ensure that
resources get proper training on Six Sigma, understand how it will benefit
the organization, and track the metrics.
Champions: Champions are normally senior managers of the company. These
people promote Six Sigma mainly between the business users. The champion
understands Six Sigma thoroughly, and serve as a coaches and mentors, select
the project, decide objectives, dedicate resources to black belts, and remove
obstacles which come across black belt players. Historically, champions always
fight for a cause. In Six Sigma they fight to remove black belt hurdles.
Master black belts: This role requires the highest level of technical capability
in Six Sigma. Normally organizations that are just starting up with Six Sigma
will not have master black belts. So normally outsiders are recruited. The
main role of the master black belt is to train, mentor, and guide. He helps the
executive leaders in selecting candidates, finding the right project, teaching
the basics, and training resources. They regularly meet with black belts and
green belts training and mentoring them.
Black belts: Black belts lead a team on a selected project which has to
be showcased for Six Sigma. They are mainly responsible for finding out
variations and seeing how these variations can be minimized. Master black
belts basically select a project and train resources, but black belts are the
people who actually implement them. Black belts normally work in projects
as team leaders or project managers. They are central to Six Sigma as they
are actually implementing Six Sigma in the organization.
Green belts: Green belts assist black belts in their functional areas. They are
mainly in projects and work part-time on Six Sigma implementation. They
apply Six Sigma methodologies to solve problems and improve processes at
the bottom level. They have just enough knowledge of Six Sigma and they
help to define the base of Six Sigma implementation in the organization. They
assist black belts in Six Sigma implementation.
 Six Sigma 109

Figure 99 Six Sigma key players

(I)  hat are the different kinds of variations used

W
in Six Sigma?

Variation is the basis of Six Sigma. It defines how many changes are happening
in the output of a process. So if a process is improved then this should reduce

Figure 100 Different variations in Six Sigma

110 Software Testing Interview Questions

variations. In Six Sigma we identify variations in the process, control them, and
reduce or eliminate defects. Now let’s discuss how we can measure variations.
There are four basic ways of measuring variations: Mean, Median, Mode, and
Range. Let’s discuss each of these variations in more depth for better analysis.
Mean: In the mean measurement the variations are measured and compared
using averaging techniques. For instance, you can see from the following figures
which shows two weekly measures, how many computers are manufactured.
We have tracked two weeks; one we have named Week 1 and the other Week
2. So to calculate variation using mean we calculate the mean of Week 1 and
Week 2. You can see from the calculations in the following figure we have
5.083 for Week 1 and 2.85 for Week 2. So we have a variation of 2.23.

Figure 101 Measuring variations using mean

Median: Median value is a mid-point in our range of data. The mid-point

can be found by finding the difference between the highest and lowest value
and then dividing it by two and, finally, adding the lowest value to it. For
instance, for the following figure in Week 1 we have 4 as the lowest value
and 7 as the highest value. So first we subtract the lowest value from the
highest value, i.e., 7 2 4. Then we divide it by two and add the lowest value.
So for Week 1 the median is 5.5 and for Week 2 the median is 2.9. So the
variation is 5.5-2.9.
 Six Sigma 111

Figure 102 Median for calculating variations

Range: Range is nothing but the spread of values for a particular data
range. In short, it is the difference between the highest and lowest values in
a particular data range. For instance, you can see for the recorded computer
data of Week 2 we have found the range of values by subtracting the highest
value from the lowest.

Figure 103 Range for calculating variations

112 Software Testing Interview Questions

Mode: Mode is nothing but the most frequently occurring values in a data
range. For instance, in our computer manufacturing data, range 4 is the most
occurring value in Week 1 and 3 is the most occurring value in Week 2. So
the variation is 1 between these data ranges.

Figure 104 Mode for calculating variations

(A) Can you explain standard deviation?

The most accurate method of quantifying variation is by using standard

deviation. It indicates the degree of variation in a set of measurements or a
process by measuring the average spread of data around the mean. It’s more
complicated than the deviation process discussed in the previous question,
but it does give accurate information.
Below is the formula for standard deviation. The “s“ symbol stands
for standard deviation. X is the observed values; X (with the top bar) is the
arithmetic mean; and n is the number of observations. The formula must look
complicated but let’s break-up into steps to understand it better.
 Six Sigma 113

Figure 105 Standard deviation formula

The first step is to calculate the mean. This can be calculated by adding up
all the observed values and dividing them by the number of observed values.
The second step is to subtract the average from each observation, square
them, and then sum them. Because we square them we will not get negative

Figure 106 Step 1: Standard deviation

114 Software Testing Interview Questions

values. The following figure shows this very detailed manner.

Figure 107 Step 2: Standard deviation

In the third step we divide the average by the number of observations as

shown in the figure.

Figure 108 Step 3: Standard deviation

In the final step we take the square root which gives the standard
deviation.
 Six Sigma 115

Figure 109 Step 4: Standard deviation

(B) Can you explain the fish bone/Ishikawa diagram?

There are situations where we need to analyze what caused the failure or
problem in a project. The fish bone or Ishikawa diagram is one important
concept which can help you find the root cause of the problem. Fish bone
was conceptualized by Ishikawa, so in honor of its inventor, this concept was
named the Ishikawa diagram. Inputs to conduct a fish bone diagram come
from discussion and brainstorming with people involved in the project. The
following figure shows the structure of the Ishikawa diagram.

Figure 110 Fish bone/Ishikawa diagram

116 Software Testing Interview Questions

The main bone is the problem which we need to address to know what
caused the failure. For instance, the following fish bone is constructed to find
what caused the project failure. To know this cause we have taken four main
bones as inputs: Finance, Process, People, and Tools. For instance, on the
people front there are many resignations ‡ this was caused because there was
no job satisfaction ‡ this was caused because the project was a maintenance
project. In the same way causes are analyzed on the Tools front also. In Tools
‡ No tools were used in the project ‡ because no resource had enough
knowledge of them ‡ this happened because of a lack of planning. In the
Process front the process was adhoc ‡ this was because of tight deadlines ‡
this was caused because marketing people over promised and did not negotiate
properly with the end customer.
Now once the diagram is drawn the end bones of the fish bone signify
the main cause of project failure. From the following diagram here’s a list of
causes:

n No training was provided for the resources regarding tools.

n Marketing people over promised the customer which lead to
tight deadlines.
n Resources resigned because it’s a maintenance project.
Chapter 6 M etrics

(B) What is meant by measures and metrics?

Measures are quantitatively unit defined elements, for instance, hours,

km, etc. Measures are basically comprised of more than one measure. For
instance, we can have metrics such as km/hr, m/s etc.

Figure 111 Measure and metrics

117
118 Software Testing Interview Questions

(I) Can you explain how the number of defects are

measured?

The number of defects is one of the measures used to measure test

effectiveness. One of the side effects of the number of defects is that all
bugs are not equal. So it becomes necessary to weight bugs according to
there criticality level. If we are using the number of defects as the metric
measurement the following are the issues:
n  he number of bugs that originally existed significantly
T
impacts the number of bugs discovered, which in turns gives a
wrong measure of the software quality.
n All defects are not equal so defects should be numbered with
a criticality level to get the right software quality measure.

The following are three simple tables which show the number of defects
SDLC phase-wise, module-wise and developer-wise.

Figure 112 Number of defects phase-wise

Figure 113 Number of defects module-wise

 Metrics 119

Figure 114 Number of defects

(I) Can you explain how the number of production

defects are measured?

This is one of the most effective measures. The number of defects found in a
production is recorded. The only issue with this measure is it can have latent and
masked defects which can give us the wrong value regarding software quality.

(I) Can you explain defect seeding?

Defect seeding is a technique that was developed to estimate the number of

defects resident in a piece of software. It’s an offline technique and should not
be used by everyone. The process is the following: we inject the application

Figure 115 Defect seeding

120 Software Testing Interview Questions

with defects and then see if the defect is found or not. So, for instance, if we
have injected 100 defects we try to get three values. First how many seeded
defects were discovered, how many were not discovered, and how many new
defects (unseeded) are discovered. By using defect seeding we can predict
the number of defects remaining in the system.
Let’s discuss the concept of defect seeding by doing some detailed
calculations and also try to understand how we can predict the number of
defects remaining in a system. The following is the calculation used:
1. First, calculate the seed ratio using the following formula, i.e., number of
seed bugs found divided by the total number of seeded bugs.
2. After that we need to calculate the total number of defects by using the
formula (number of defects divided by the seed ratio).
3. Finally, we can know the estimated defects by using the formula (total
number of defects2the number of defect calculated by Step 3).
The following figure shows a sample with the step-by-step calculation.
You can see that first we calculate the seed ratio, then the total number of
defects, and finally, we get the estimated defects.

Figure 116 Seed calculation

 Metrics 121

(I) Can you explain DRE?

DRE (Defect Removal Efficiency) is a powerful metric used to measure

test effectiveness. From this metric we come to know how many bugs we
found from the set of bugs which we could have found. The following is the
formula for calculating DRE. We need two inputs for calculating this metric:
the number of bugs found during development and the number of defects
detected at the end user.

Figure 117 DRE formula

But the success of DRE depends on several factors. The following are
some of them:

n Severity and distribution of bugs must be taken into account.

n Second, how do we confirm when the customer has found all
the bugs. This is normally achieved by looking at the history of
the customer.

(B) Can you explain unit and system test DRE?

DRE is also useful to measure the effectiveness of a particular test such as

acceptance, unit, or system testing. The following figure shows defect numbers
at various software cycle levels. The 1 indicates that defects are input at
the phase and2indicates that these many defects were removed from that
122 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 118 Defect injected and removed per phase

particular phase. For instance, in the requirement phase 100 defects were
present, but 20 defects are removed from the requirement phase due to a
code review. So if 20 defects are removed then 80 defects get carried to the
new phase (design) and so on.
First, let’s calculate simple DRE of the above diagram. DRE will be the
total bugs found in testing divided by the total bugs found in testing plus the
total bugs found by the user, that is, during acceptance testing. So the following
diagram gives the DRE for the those values.
 Metrics 123

Figure 119 DRE calculation

Now let’s calculate system DRE of the above given project. In order
to calculate the system DRE we need to take the number of defects found
during the system divided by the defects found during system testing plus
the defects found during acceptance testing. The following figure shows the
system DRE calculation step by step.

Figure 120 System testing DRE calculation

124 Software Testing Interview Questions

Unit testing DRE calculation is similar to system testing DRE. As you

can see from the following figure it’s nothing but the number of defects found
during unit testing divided by the number of defects found during unit testing
plus the number of defects found during system testing.

Figure 121 Unit test DRE calculation

One of the important factors to be noted while calculating unit testing

DRE is that we need to exclude those defects which cannot be produced
due to the limitations of unit testing. For instance, passing of data between
components to each other. In unit testing, because we test it as a single unit,
we can never reproduce defects which involve interaction. So such kinds of
defects should be removed to get accurate test results.

(I) How do you measure test effectiveness?

Test effectiveness is the measure of the bug-finding ability of our tests. In

short, it measures how good the tests were. So effectiveness is the ratio of
the measure of bugs found during testing to the total bugs found. Total bugs
are the sum of new defects found by the user plus the bugs found in the test.
The following figure explains the calculations in a pictorial format.
 Metrics 125

Figure 122 Measure test effectiveness

(B) Can you explain defect age and defect spoilage?

Defect age is also called a phase age or phage. One of the most important things
to remember in testing is that the later we find a defect the more it costs to fix
it. Defect age and defect spoilage metrics work with the same fundamental,
i.e., how late you found the defect. So the first thing we need to define is what
is the scale of the defect age according to phases. For instance, the following
table defines the scale according to phases. So, for instance, requirement
defects, if found in the design phase, have a scale of 1, and the same defect,
if propagated until the production phase, goes up to a scale of 4.

Figure 123 Scale of defect age

126 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure124 Defect spoilage

Once the scale is decided now we can find the defect spoilage. Defect
spoilage is defects from the previous phase multiplied by the scale. For
instance, in the following figure we have found 8 defects in the design phase
from which 4 defects are propagated from the requirement phase. So we
multiply the 4 defects with the scale defined in the previous table, so we get
the value of 4. In the same fashion we calculate for all the phases. The following
is the spoilage formula. It’s the ratio of the sum of defects passed from the
previous phase multiplied by the discovered phase then finally divided by the
total number of defects. For instance, the first row shows that total defects are
27 and the sum of passed on defects multiplied by their factor is 8 (4 3 1 5
4 1 2 3 2 5 4). In this way we calculate for all phases and finally the total.
The optimal value is 1. A lower value of spoilage indicates a more effective
defect discovery process.

Figure 125 Spoilage formula

Chapter 7 A utomated
T esting

(B)  hat are good candidates for automation

W
in testing?

OR

(B) Does automation replace manual testing?

Automation is the integration of testing tools into the test environment in such
a manner that the test execution, logging, and comparison of results are done
with little human intervention. A testing tool is a software application which
helps automate the testing process. But the testing tool is not the complete
answer for automation. One of the huge mistakes done in testing automation is
automating the wrong things during development. Many testers learn the hard
way that everything cannot be automated. The best components to automate are
repetitive tasks. So some companies first start with manual testing and then see
which tests are the most repetitive ones and only those are then automated.
As a rule of thumb do not try to automate:

n  nstable software: If the software is still under development

U
and undergoing many changes automation testing will not be
that effective.
n Once in a blue moon test scripts: Do not automate test scripts
which will be run once in a while.
n Code and document review: Do not try to automate code and
document reviews; they will just cause trouble.
127
128 Software Testing Interview Questions

The following figure shows what should not be automated.

Figure 126 What should not be automated

All repetitive tasks which are frequently used should be automated. For
instance, regression tests are prime candidates for automation because they’re
typically executed many times. Smoke, load, and performance tests are other
examples of repetitive tasks that are suitable for automation. White box testing
can also be automated using various unit testing tools. Code coverage can also
be a good candidate for automation. The following figure shows, in general,
the type of tests which can be automated.

(I)  hich automation tools have you worked with

W
and can you explain them briefly?

Note: For this book we are using AutomatedQA as the tool for testing automation.
So we will answer this question from the point of view of the AutomatedQA tool.
You can install the AutomationQA tool and practice for yourself to see how it
really works.
 Automated Testing 129

Figure 127 Candidates for automation

In this answer we will be testing a tool called “WindowsFileSearch.” This

tool offers the following functionality:

n  his tool basically searches files by name and internal content

T
of the file.
n It also has a wildcard search as well as an extension search
which means we can search the file by extension, for instance,
*.doc, *.exe, etc.

Note: To answer this answer in detail we have used the FileSearch application.
You can experiment with any other application installed on your system such as
a messenger or office application.

Let’s go step by step to learn to use the AutomatedQA tool to automate our
testing process. First, start the tool by clicking all programs ‡ AutomatedQA
‡ TestComplete 5. Once the tool is started you will get a screen as shown
130 Software Testing Interview Questions

here. We first need to create a new project by using the New Project menu
as shown in the following figure.

Figure 128 Create a new project

After clicking on the new project we will be prompted for what kind of
testing we are looking at, i.e., load testing, general testing, etc. Currently, we
will select only General-Purpose Test project. At this moment, you can also
specify the project name, location, and the language for scripting (Select
VBscript, currently).

Figure 129 Select the type of project

 Automated Testing 131

Once the project name and path are given you will then be prompted
with a screen as shown here. These are project items which we need
to be included in your project depending on the testing type. Because
currently we are doing a Windows application test we need to select the
project items as shown in the figure. Please note events have to be selected
compulsorily.

Figure 130 Select project items

Once you have clicked finished you will get the Test Complete Project
Explorer as shown here. The Test Complete Project Explorer is divided into
three main parts: Events, Scripts, and TestedApps. Script is where all the
programming logic is present. In TestedApps we add the applications that we
want to test. So let’s first add the application in TestedApps.
132 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 131 Project explorer

In order to add the application EXE in TestedApps we need to right click

on the TestedApps folder and click on New Item.

Figure 132 Add new applications to the project

 Automated Testing 133

You will then be prompted with a screen as shown here. Browse to your
application EXE file and add it to the TestedApps folder.

Figure 133 Add the EXE to your TestedApps folder

Currently, we have added the WindowsFileSearch application. Now that

your application is added we need to start recording our test. In order to start
recording click on the button shown in the figure or push SHIFT 1 F1.

Figure 134 EXE has been added successfully

134 Software Testing Interview Questions

Once the recording toolbar is seen right click on the application added
and run your test. In this scenario you can see the WindowsFileSearch
application running. In this we have recorded a complete test in which we
gave the folder name and keyword, and then tried to see if we were getting
proper results. Your application being tested can be something different so
your steps may vary.

Figure 135 Recording

Once the test is complete you can stop the recording using the button on
the recording toolbar. Once you stop, the recording tool will generate script of
all your actions done as shown in the figure. You can view the programming
script as shown here.
 Automated Testing 135

Figure 136 Script generated for the recording

Once the script is recorded you can run the script by right clicking and
running it. Once you run it the script tool will playback all the test steps which
you recorded.

Figure 137 Running the recorded test

136 Software Testing Interview Questions

If everything goes right you can see the test log as shown here which
signifies that your script has run successfully.

Figure 138 Successful execution of the scripts

(I) How does load testing work for websites?

In order to understand this we need to first understand the concept of how

websites work. Websites have software called a web server installed on the
server. The user sends a request to the web server and receives a response.
So, for instance, when you type http://www.questpond.com (that’s my official
website) the web server senses it and sends you the home page as a response.
This happens each time you click on a link, do a submit, etc. So if we want
to do load testing you need to just multiply these requests and responses
“N” times. This is what an automation tool does. It first captures the request
and response and then just multiplies it by “N” times and sends it to the web
server, which results in load simulation.
 Automated Testing 137

Figure 139 Concept of load testing

So once the tool captures the request and response, we just need to
multiply the request and response with the virtual user. Virtual users are logical
users which actually simulate the actual physical user by sending in the same
request and response. If you want to do load testing with 10,000 users on an

Figure 140 Load testing simulation by virtual user

138 Software Testing Interview Questions

application it’s practically impossible. But by using the load testing tool you
only need to create 1000 virtual users.

(A) Can you give an example showing load testing

for Websites?

Note: As said previously we will be using the AutomatedQA tool for automation
in this book. So let’s try to answer this question from the same perspective. You
can get the tool from the CD provided with the book.

The first step is to open a new project using TestComplete.

Figure 141 Create a new project

 Automated Testing 139

After that select HTTP Load Testing from the project types.

Figure 142 Select HTTP load testing

Once you click “OK” you will get different project items which you need
for the project. For load testing only select three, i.e., Events, HTTP Load
Testing, and Script as shown here.

Figure 143 Select the three items in load testing

140 Software Testing Interview Questions

This project has the following items: Stations, Tasks, Tests, and Scripts.
Stations basically define how many users the load testing will be performed
for. Task has the request and response captured. Tests and Scripts have the
Script which is generated when we record the automated test.

Figure 144 Load testing explorer

Figure 145 Project items

 Automated Testing 141

You need to specify the number of virtual users, tasks, and the browser
type such as Internet Explorer, Opera, etc.

Figure 146 Assign the number of virtual users and the browser

As said previously the basic idea in load testing is the request and response
which need to be recorded. That can be done by using the recording taskbar
and clicking the icon shown.

Figure 147 Record HTTP task

Once you click on the icon you need to enter the task name for it.

Figure 148 Specify task name

142 Software Testing Interview Questions

In order to record the request and response the tool changes the proxy
setting of the browser. So you can see from the screen here just click yes and
let the next screen change the proxy settings.

Figure 149 Prompt to change proxy setting

Figure 150 Changing proxy settings

 Automated Testing 143

Once the setting is changed you can then start your browser and make
some requests and responses. Once that is done click on the stop button to
stop the recording.

Figure 151 Stop the task once done

The tool actually generates a script for the task recorded. You can see the
script and the code generated in the following figure. To view the code you
can double click on the Test2 script (here we have named it Test2 script).

Figure 152 Test2 created

144 Software Testing Interview Questions

If you double click the test you can see the code.

Figure 153 Code generated for test

Right click on the task and run it and you will see a summary report as
shown in the figure.

Figure 154 Load test summary report

(I) What does the load test summary report contain?

The figure above explains the answer.

 Automated Testing 145

(I) Can you explain data-driven testing?

Normally an application has to be tested with multiple sets of data. For

instance, a simple login screen, depending on the user type, will give different
rights. For example, if the user is an admin he will have full rights, while a
user will have limited rights and support if he only has read-only support
rights. In this scenario the testing steps are the same but with different user
ids and passwords. In data-driven testing, inputs to the system are read from
data files such as Excel, CSV (comma separated values), ODBC, etc. So
the values are read from these sources and then test steps are executed by
automated testing.

Figure 153 Data-driven testing

(I) Can you explain table-driven testing?

OR

(I) How can you perform data-driven testing using

Automated QA?

[This question is left to the user. Please install the tool and try for yourself.]
Chapter 8 T esting
E stimation

(B)  hat are the different ways of doing black box

W
testing?

Note: Below we have listed the most used estimation methodologies in testing.
As this is an interview question book we limit ourselves to TPA which is the most
preferred estimation methodology for black box testing.

There are five methodologies most frequently used:

n Top down according to budget

n WBS (Work Breakdown Structure)
n Guess and gut feeling
n Early project data
n TPA (Test Point Analysis)

(B) Can you explain TPA analysis?

TPA is a technique used to estimate test efforts for black box testing. Inputs
for TPA are the counts derived from function points (function points will be
discussed in more detail in the next sections).

147
148 Software Testing Interview Questions

Below are the features of TPA:

n Used to estimate only black box testing.

n Require function points as inputs.

Figure 154 Inputs for TPA come from function points

Note: In the following section we will look into how to estimate function
points.

(A) Can you explain function points?

Note: It’s rare that someone will ask you to give the full definition of function
points. They will rather ask about specific sections such as GSC, ILF, etc. The
main interest of the interviewer will be how you use the function point value in
TPA analysis. Function point analysis is mainly done by the development team
so from a testing perspective you only need to get the function point value and
then use TPA to get the black box testing estimates.

Note: This document contains material which has been extracted from the
IFPUG Counting Practices Manual. It is reproduced in this document with the
permission of IFPUG.
 Testing Estimation 149

Function Point Analysis was developed first by Allan J. Albrecht in the

mid-1970s. It was an attempt to overcome difficulties associated with lines of
code as a measure of software size, and to assist in developing a mechanism to
predict efforts associated with software development. The method was first
published in 1979, then later in 1983. In 1984 Albrecht refined the method
and since 1986, when the International Function Point User Group (IFPUG)
was set up, several versions of the Function Point Counting Practices Manual
have come out.

Note: The best way to understand any complicated system is to break the system
down into smaller subsystems and try to understand those smaller sub-systems
first. In a function point you break complicated systems into smaller systems
and estimate those smaller pieces, then total up all the subsystem estimates to
come up with a final estimate.

Basics of Function Points

The Following are some terms used in FPA: [Function Point analysis].

(B) Can you explain an Application boundary?

Application Boundary
The first step in FPA is to define the boundary. There are two types of major
boundaries:

n Internal Application Boundary

n External Application Boundary

We will give the features of external application boundaries and the

internal application boundaries will be obvious.
The external application boundary can be identified using the following
litmus test:

n  oes it have or will it have any other interface to maintain

D
its data, which was not developed by you?. Example: Your
150 Software Testing Interview Questions

Company is developing an “Accounts Application” and

at the end of the accounting year, you have to report to
the tax department. The tax department has its own
website where companies can connect and report their
tax transactions. Tax department applications have other
maintenance and reporting screens developed by the tax
software department. These maintenance screens are used
internally by the tax department. So the tax online interface
has other interfaces to maintain its data which is not within
your scope, thus we can identify the tax website reporting as
an external application.
n Does your program have to go through a third party API or
layer? In order for your application to interact with the tax
department application your code has to interact with the tax
department API.
n The best litmus test is to ask yourself if you have full access
to the system. If you have full rights to make changes then it
is an internal application boundary, otherwise it is an external
application boundary.

(B) Can you explain the elementary process?

OR

(B) Can you explain the concept of the static and

dynamic elementary processes?

The Elementary Processes

As said previously FPA is about breaking huge systems into smaller pieces
and analyzing them. Software applications are a combination of elementary
processes.

Note: An EP is the smallest unit of activity that is meaningful to a user. An EP

must be self-contained and leave the application in a consistent state.
 Testing Estimation 151

When elementary processes come together they form a software

application.

Note: An elementary process is not necessarily completely independent. So,

we can define elementary process as small units of self-contained functionality
from a user’s perspective.

Dynamic and static elementary processes

There are two types of elementary processes:

n Dynamic elementary Process.

n Static elementary Process.

The dynamic elementary process moves data from an internal application

boundary to an external application boundary or vice-versa.
Examples of dynamic elementary processes include:

n I nput data screen where a user inputs data into the

application. Data moves from the input screen inside the
application.
n Transactions exported in export files in XML or any other
standard.
n Display reports which can come from an external application
boundary and an internal application boundary.

Examples of static elementary processes include:

n  tatic elementary process which maintains the data of the

S
application either inside the application boundary or in the
external application boundary.

For instance, in a customer maintenance screen maintaining customer

data is a static elementary process.
152 Software Testing Interview Questions

(I) Can you explain FTR, ILF, EIF, EI, EO, EQ, and GSC?

Elements of Function Points

The following are the elements of FPA:

Internal Logical Files (ILFs)

The following are points to be noted for ILF:
n ILFs are logically related data from a user’s point of view.
n They reside in the internal application boundary and are
maintained through the elementary process of the application.
n ILFs can have a maintenance screen but not always.

Note: Do not make the mistake of mapping a one-to-one relationship between

ILFs and the technical database design. This can make FPA go very wrong.
The main difference between ILFs and a technical database is an ILF is a
logical view and a database is a physical structure (technical design). Example:
A supplier database design will have tables such as Supplier, Supplier Address,
SupplierPhonenumbers, but from the ILF point of view you will only see the
Supplier as logically they are all Supplier details.

Figure 155 ILF example

 Testing Estimation 153

External Interface Files (EIFs)

n  hese files are logically related data from the user point of
T
view.
n EIFs reside in the external application boundary.
n EIFs are used only for reference purposes and are not
maintained by internal applications.
n EIFs are maintained by external applications.

Record Element Type (RET)

The following points are to be noted for RETs:

n An RET is a sub-group element data of ILF or EIF.

n If there is no sub-group of ILF then count the ILF itself as
one RET.
n A group of RETs within ILF are logically related. Most
likely with a parent-child relationship. Example: A supplier
has multiple addresses and every address can have multiple
phone numbers (see the following figure which shows a
database diagram). So, Supplier, SupplierAddress, and
SupplierPhoneNumber are a RETs.

Figure 156 RET

154 Software Testing Interview Questions

Please note the whole database is one supplier ILF as all belong to one logical
section. The RET quantifies the relationship complexity of ILF and EIF.

Data Element Types (DETs)

The following are the points to be noted for DETs counting:

n Each DET should be user recognizable. For example, in

the previous figure we have kept the auto increment field
(SupplierId) as the primary key. The SupplierId field from a
user point of view never exists at all, it’s only from a software
designing aspect, so does not qualify as a DET.
n DETs should be a non-recursive fields in ILF. DETs should
not repeat in the same ILF again, and should be counted only
once.
n Count foreign keys as one DET. SupplierId does not qualify
as a DET but its relationship in the SupplierAddress table is
counted as a DET. So Supplierid_fk in the SupplierAddress
table is counted as a DET. The same holds true for
“Supplieraddressid_fk”.

File Type References (FTRs)

The following points are to be noted for FTRs:

n An FTR is a file or data referenced by a transaction.

n An FTR should be an ILF or EIF. So count each ILF or EIF
read during the process.
n If the EP is maintained as an ILF then count that as an FTR.
So by default you will always have one FTR in any EP.

External Input (EI)

The following are points to be noted for EIs:

n EIs are dynamic elementary processes in which data is

received from the external application boundary. Example:
User interaction screens, when data comes from the User
Interface to the Internal Application.
 Testing Estimation 155

n EIs may maintain the ILF of the application, but it’s not a
compulsory rule.
n Example: A calculator application does not maintain any data,
but still the screen of the calculator will be counted as EI.
n Most of the time user screens will be EI, but again it’s not a
hard and fast rule. Example: An import batch process running
from the command line does not have a screen, but still
should be counted as EI as it helps pass data from the external
application boundary to the internal application boundary.

External Inquiry (EQ)

The following are points to be noted for EQs:
n An EQ is a dynamic elementary process in which result data
is retrieved from one or more ILF or EIF. In this EP some
input requests have to enter the application boundary. Output
results exits the application boundary.
n EQ does not contain any derived data. Derived data means
any complex calculated data. Derived data is not just mere
retrieval data but are combined with additional formula to
generate results. Derived data is not part of ILF or EIF, they
are generated on the fly.
n EQ does not update any ILF or EIF.
n EQ activity should be meaningful from a user perspective.
n EP is self-contained and leaves the business in a consistent state.
n DET and processing logic is different from other EQs.
n Simple reports form good a base for EQs.

Note: There are no hard and fast rules that only simple reports are EQs. Simple
view functionality can also be counted as an EQ.

External Output (EO)

The Following are points to be noted for EOs:

n EOs are dynamic elementary processes in which derived data

crosses from the internal application boundary to the external
application boundary.
156 Software Testing Interview Questions

n EO can update an ILF or EIF.

n The Process should be the smallest unit of activity that is
meaningful to the end user in business.
n EP is self-contained and leaves the business in a consistent
state.
n DET is different from other EOs. So this ensures that we do
not count EOs twice.
n They have derived data or formulae calculated data.

The major difference between EO and EQ is that data passes across the
application boundary.

Example: Exporting accounts transactions to some external file format such

as XML or some other format, which later the external accounting software
can import. The second important difference is that EQ has non-derived data
and EO has derived data.

General System Characteristics (GSC) Section

This section is the most important section. All the previously discussed sections
relate only to applications. But there are other things also to be considered
while making software, such as are you going to make it an N-Tier application,
what’s the performance level the user is expecting, etc. These other factors
are called GSCs. These are external factors which affect the software and
the cost of the software. When you submit a function point to a client, he
normally will skip everything and go to the GSC section first. The GSC gives
us something called the VAFs (Value Added Factors).
There are 14 points associated with (VAFs) and the associated
rating tables:

Data Communications
How many communication facilities are there to aid in the transfer or exchange
of information with the application or system?
 Testing Estimation 157

Rating Description
0  pplication uses pure batch processing or a stand-alone PC.
A
1 Application uses batch processing but has remote data
entry or remote printing.
2 Application uses batch processing but has remote data
entry and remote printing.
3 Application includes online data collection or TP
(Teleprocessing) front-end to a batch process or query
system.
4 Application is more than a front-end, but supports only one
type of TP communications protocol.
5 Application is more than a front-end, and supports more
than one type of TP communications protocol.

Table 5 Data communication

Distributed Data Processing

How are distributed data and processing functions handled?

Rating Description
0  pplication does not aid the transfer of data or processing functions
A
between components of the system.
1 Application prepares data for end-user processing on another
component of the system such as PC spreadsheets or PC DBMS.
2 Data is prepared for transfer, then is transferred and processed on
another component of the system (not for end-user processing).
3 Distributed processing and data transfer are online and in one direction
only.
4 Distributed processing and data transfer are online and in both
directions.
5 Processing functions are dynamically performed on the most appropriate
component of the system.

Table 6 Distributed data processing

158 Software Testing Interview Questions

Performance
Did the user require response time or throughput?

Rating Description
0  o special performance requirements were stated by the user.
N
1 Performance and design requirements were stated and reviewed but no
special actions were required.
2 Response time or throughput is critical during peak hours.No special design
for CPU utilization was required. Processing deadline is for the next business
day.
3 Response time or throughput is critical during all business hours. No special
design for CPU utilization was required. Processing deadline requirements
with interfacing systems are constraining.
4 In addition, stated user performance requirements are stringent enough to
require performance analysis tasks in the design phase.
5 In addition, performance analysis tools were used in the design,
development, and/or implementation phases to meet the stated user
performance requirements.

Table 7 Performance
Heavily Used Configuration
How heavily used is the current hardware platform where the application
will be executed?

Rating Description
0 No explicit or implicit operational restrictions are included.
1 Operational restrictions do exist, but are less restrictive than a typical
application. No special effort is needed to meet the restrictions.
2 Some security or timing considerations are included.
3 Specific processor requirement for a specific piece of the application is
included.
4 Stated operation restrictions require special constraints on the application
in the central processor or a dedicated processor.
5 In addition, there are special constraints on the application in the
distributed components of the system.

Table 8 Heavily used configuration

 Testing Estimation 159

Transaction Rate
How frequently are transactions executed; daily, weekly, monthly, etc.?

Rating Description
0 No peak transaction period is anticipated.
1 Peak transaction period (e.g., monthly, quarterly, seasonally, annually) is
anticipated.
2 Weekly peak transaction period is anticipated.
3 Daily peak transaction period is anticipated.
4 High transaction rate(s) stated by the user in the application requirements
or service-level agreements are high enough to require performance analysis
tasks in the design phase.
5 High transaction rate(s) stated by the user in the application requirements
or service-level agreements are high enough to require performance analysis
tasks and, in addition, require the use of performance analysis tools in the
design, development, and/or installation phases.

Table 9 Transaction rate

Online Data Entry

What percentage of the information is entered online?

Rating Description
0 All transactions are processed in batch mode.
1 1% to 7% of transactions are interactive data entry.
2 8% to 15% of transactions are interactive data entry.
3 16% to 23% of transactions are interactive data entry.
4 24% to 30% of transactions are interactive data entry.
5 More than 30% of transactions are interactive data entry.

Table 10 Online data entry

End-user Efficiency
Was the application designed for end-user efficiency? There are seven end-
user efficiency factors which govern how this point is rated.
160 Software Testing Interview Questions

YES OR NO End-user Efficiency Factor.

1  avigational aids (e.g., function keys, jumps, dynamically
N
generated menus).
2 Menus.
3 Online help and documents.
4 Automated cursor movement.
5 Scrolling.
6 Remote printing (via online transactions).
7 Preassigned function keys.
8 Batch jobs submitted from online transactions.
9 Cursor selection of screen data.
10 Heavy use of reverse video, highlighting, colors underlining, and
other indicators.
11 Hard copy user documentation of online transactions.
12 Mouse interface.
13 Pop-up windows.
14 As few screens as possible to accomplish a business function.
15 Bilingual support (supports two languages; count as four items).
16 Multilingual support (supports more than two languages; count
as six items).

Table 11 End-user efficiency factor

Rating Description
0 None of the above.
1 One to three of the above.
2 Four to five of the above.
3 Six or more of the above, but there are no specific user requirements related
to efficiency.
4 Six or more of the above and stated requirements for end-user efficiency are
strong enough to require design tasks for human factors to be included (for
example, minimize keystrokes, maximize defaults, use of templates).
5 Six or more of the above and stated requirements for end-user efficiency are
strong enough to require use of special tools and processes to demonstrate
that the objectives have been achieved.

Table 12 End-user efficiency

 Testing Estimation 161

Online Update
How many ILFs are updated by online transactions?

Rating Description
0 None of the above.
1 Online update of one to three control files is included. Volume of updating
is slow and recovery is easy.
2 Online update of four or more control files is included. Volume of updating
is low and recovery is easy.
3 Online update of major internal logical files is included.
4 In addition, protection against data lost is essential and has been specially
designed and programmed in the system.
5 In addition, high volumes bring cost considerations into the recovery
process. Highly automated recovery procedures with minimum operator
intervention are included.

Table 13 Online update

Complex Processing
Does the application have extensive logical or mathematical processing?

YES OR NO Complex Processing Factor

1 S ensitive control (for e.g., special audit processing) and/or
application specific security processing.
2 Extensive logical processing.
3 Extensive mathematical processing.
4 Much exception processing results in incomplete transactions
that must be processed again, for example, incomplete ATM
transactions caused by TP interruption, missing data values, or
failed edits.
5 Complex processing to handle multiple input/output
possibilities, for example, multimedia, or device independence.

Table 14 Complex processing factor

162 Software Testing Interview Questions

Rating Description
0 None of the above.
1 Any one of the above.
2 Any two of the above.
3 Any three of the above.
4 Any four of the above.
5 All five of the above

Table 15 Complex processing

Reusability
Was the application developed to meet one or many users needs?

Rating Description
0 No reusable code.
1 Reusable code is used within the application.
2 Less than 10% of the application considers more than one user’s needs.
3 Ten percent or more of the application considers more than one user’s
needs.
4 The application was specifically packaged and/or documented to ease
re-use, and the application is customized by the user at a source-code level.
5 The application was specifically packaged and/or documented to ease
re-use, and the application is customized for use by means of user
parameter maintenance.

Table 16 Reusability

Installation Ease
How difficult is conversion and installation?
 Testing Estimation 163

Rating Description
0  o special considerations were stated by the user, and no special setup is
N
required for installation.
1 No special considerations were stated by the user but special setup is
required for installation.
2 Conversion and installation requirements were stated by the user and
conversion and installation guides were provided and tested. The impact of
conversion on the project is not considered to be important.
3 Conversion and installation requirements were stated by the user, and
conversion and installation guides were provided and tested. The impact of
conversion on the project is considered to be important.
4 In addition to 2 above, automated conversion and installation tools were
provided and tested.
5 In addition to 3 above, automated conversion and installation tools were
provided and tested.

Table 17 Installation ease

Operational Ease
How effective and/or automated are start-up, back-up, and recovery
procedures?

Rating Description
0  o special operational considerations other than the normal back-up
N
procedures were stated by the user.
1–4 One, some, or all of the following items apply to the application. Select
all that apply. Each item has a point value of one, except where noted
otherwise.
Effective start-up, back-up, and recovery processes were provided, but
operator intervention is required.
Effective start-up, back-up, and recovery processes were provided, and no
operator intervention is required (count as two items).
The application minimizes the need for tape mounts.
The application minimizes the need for paper handling.

Continued
164 Software Testing Interview Questions

Rating Description
5  he application is designed for unattended operation. Unattended
T
operation means no operator intervention is required to operate the system
other than to start-up or shut-down the application.
Automatic error recovery is a feature of the application.

Table 18 Operational ease

Multiple Sites
Was the application specifically designed, developed, and supported to be
installed at multiple sites for multiple organizations?

Description Rating
0  ser requirements do not require consider the needs of more than one user/
U
installation site.
1 Needs of multiple sites were considered in the design, and the application
is designed to operate only under identical hardware and software
environments.
2 Needs of multiple sites were considered in the design, and the application
is designed to operate only under similar hardware and/or software
environments.
3 Needs of multiple sites were considered in the design, and the application
is designed to operate under different hardware and/or software
environments.
4 Documentation and support plans are provided and tested to support the
application at multiple sites and the application is as described by 1 or 2.
5 Documentation and support plans are provided and tested to support the
application at multiple sites and the application is as described by 3.

Table 19 Multiple sites

Facilitate Change
Was the application specifically designed, developed, and supported to
facilitate change?
 Testing Estimation 165

The following characteristics can apply to the application:

YES OR NO Facilitates factors.

0 None of above.
1 Flexible query and report facility is provided that can handle
simple requests; for example, and/or logic applied to only one
internal logical file (counts as one item).
2 Flexible query and report facility is provided that can handle
requests of average complexity, for example, and/or logic applied
to more than one internal logical file (counts as two items).
3 Flexible query and report facility is provided that can handle
complex requests, for example, and/or logic combinations on
one or more internal logical files (counts as three items).
4 Business control data is kept in tables that are maintained by the
user with online interactive processes, but changes take effect
only on the next business day.
5 Business control data is kept in tables that are maintained by the
user with online interactive processes and the changes take effect
immediately (counts as two items)

Table 20 Facilitates change factors

Rating Description
0 None of the above.
1 Any one of the above.
2 Any two of the above.
3 Any three of the above.
4 Any four of the above.
5 All five of the above

Table 21 Facilitate change

All of the above GSCs are rated from 0-5.Then VAFs are calculated from
the equation below:
VAF 5 0.65 1 (sum of all GSC factor)/100).
166 Software Testing Interview Questions

Note: GSC has not been widely accepted in the software industry. Many software
companies use unadjusted function points rather than adjusted. ISO has also
removed the GSC section from its books and only kept unadjusted function
points as the base for measurement.

The following are the look-up tables which will be referred to during
counting.

EI Rating Table
Data Elements

FTR 1 to 4 5 to 15 Greater than 15

Less than 2 3 3 4
Equal to 2 3 4 6
Greater than 2 4 4 6

Table 22 EI rating table

This table says that in any EI (External Input), if your DET count (Data
Element) and FTR (File Type Reference) exceed these limits, then this should
be the FP (Function Point). For example, if your DET exceeds >15 and the
FTR is greater than 2, then the function point count is 6. The following tables
also show the same things. These tables should be there before us when we
are doing function point counting. The best way is to put these values in Excel

EO Rating Table
Data Elements

FTR 1 to 5 6 to 19 Greater than 19

Less than 2 4 4 5
2 or 3 4 5 7
Greater than 2 5 7 7

Table 23 EO rating table

 Testing Estimation 167

with the formula so that you only have to put the quantity in the appropriate
section and you get the final value.

EQ Rating Table
Data Elements

FTR 1 to 5 6 to 19 Greater than 19

Less than 2 3 3 4
2 or 3 3 4 6
Greater than 2 4 6 6

Table 24 EQ rating table

ILF Rating Table

Data Elements
RET 1 to 19 20 to 50 51 or more
1 RET 7 7 10
2 to 5 7 10 15
Greater than 6 10 15 15

EIF Rating Table

RET 1 to 19 20 to 50 51 or more
1 RET 5 5 7
2 to 5 5 7 10
Greater than 6 7 10 10

Table 25 ILF rating table

Steps used to Count Function Points

This section will discuss the practical way of counting FPs to end up with the
number of men/days on a project.
1. C
 ount the ILF, EIF, EI, EQ, RET, DET, FTR (this is basically all sections
discussed above): This whole FP count will be called the “unadjusted
function point.”
168 Software Testing Interview Questions

2. T hen put rating values 0 to 5 for all 14 GSCs. Add the total of all 14 GSCs
to set the total VAF. The formula for VAF 5 0.65 1 (sum of all GSC
factors/100).
3. Finally, make the calculation of adjusted function points. Formula: Total
function point 5 VAF * unadjusted function point.
4. Make an estimation of how many function points you will cover per day.
This is also called the “performance factor.”
5. On the basis of the performance factor, you can calculate men/days.
Let’s try to implement these details in a sample customer project.

Sample Customer Project

We will be evaluating the customer GUI, so we will assume what the customer
GUI is all about.
The following is the scope of the customer screen:
n The customer screen will be as shown here.
n After inputting the customer code and customer name, they
will be verified with a credit card check.

Figure157 Custom screen

 Testing Estimation 169

n The credit card check is an external system.

n Every customer can have multiple addresses.
n The customer will have add and update functionality.

There is one ILF in the customer screen:

n The customer ILF.
n There is one EIF in the form.
n Credit card system.
The following are the ILF counting rules:
n ILF are logically related data from the user’s point of view.
Customers and customer addresses belong logically to the
customer category.
n ILF reside in the internal application boundary and are
maintained through the elementary process of the application.
Customer resides inside the application boundary as we have
full access over it.
The following table gives the appropriate ILFs:

ILF Customer

Description Number of DETs Number of RETs

There are total 9 DETs, all 9 1

add and update buttons,
even the credit check button,
the address list box, check box
active, all text boxes. There is
only one RET, the customer
addresses.

So according to the ILF Total function 7

ranking table

Table 26 ILF for the customer

170 Software Testing Interview Questions

EIF lies outside the application boundary.

EI Credit Card Information

Number of DETs Number of RETs

Description
The credit card information referenced
is an EIF. Note this file is only referenced
for the credit card check. 1 1
There’s only one textbox credit card
number and hence one DET is put
in the side column. And RET is 0.
Looking at the rating table the
total FP is 5.
So according to the above ranking table Total function 5

Table 27 EI for the customer

The following EIF rules were defined in the previous sections:

n I t is a dynamic elementary process in which data is received

from the external application boundary. Customer details are
received from the external boundary, that is, the customer
input screen.
n EI may maintain the ILF of the application, but it’s not a
compulsory rule. In this sample project the customer ILF is
maintained. So there are two EI: one for add and one from
update.

While counting EI I have seen many people multiply it by 3.That means

we are going to do all CRUD functionality (ADD, UPDATE, and DELETE).
Here the customer screen has add and update. We can say that 2 * 6; that 5
12 FP for this EI customer. But later when someone refers to your FP sheet
he will be completely lost.
 Testing Estimation 171

EI Add Customer Number of DETs Number of FTRs

Description
There are total 9 DETs, all add and
update buttons, even the credit check
button, the address list box, check
box active, all text boxes.
There are 3 FTRs, one is the address
and the second is the credit card
information, and the third is the
customer itself. 9 3
So according to the above ranking table Total function 6

Table 28 EI for the add customer

EI Update Customer

Description Number of DET Number of RET

There are 9 total DETs, all add and update
uttons, even the credit check button, the
address list box, check box active, all text
boxes.There are 3 FTRs, one is the
address, the second is the credit card
information, and the third is the
customer itself. 9 3
So according to the above ranking table Total function 6

Table 29 EI for the update customer

The following are rules to recognize EO:

n  ata should cross application boundaries and should involve

D
complex logic.

Credit card check processes can be complex as credit card API complexity is
still not known. Credit card information crosses from the credit card system
to the customer system.
172 Software Testing Interview Questions

EO Check Credit Card

Description Number of DETs Number of RETs

One DET credit card number
and one RET credit card itself.
Note if there are no RET we use
a default of one. Look for RET
counting rules defined in
previous sections. 1 1
So according to the above ranking table Total function 4

Table 30 EO to check the credit card

The following are rules used to recognize EQ:

n  Q is a dynamic elementary process in which result data is
E
retrieved from one or more ILFs or EIFs. For editing, the
customer we will need to retrieve the customer details.
n Inthis EP some input requests have to enter the application
boundary. The customer code is inputted from the same screen.
n Output results exit the application boundary. The customer
details are displayed while the customer is editing the
customer data.
n EQ does not contain any derived data. The customer data
which is displayed does not contain any complex calculations.

EQ Display Customer Edit Information

Description Number of DETs Number of FTRs

There are 5 DETs to be retrieved:
customer code, customer name,
credit card number, active,
customer address. Only customer
details and customer address
will be referenced. 5 2
So according to the above ranking table Total function 3

Table 31 EQ to display customer edit

 Testing Estimation 173

So now let’s add the total FPs from the previous tables:

Function Point Section Name Counted

ILF customer
EO credit card check system 4
EIF credit card information 5
EI customer (add and update) 12
EQ display customer edit information 3
Total unadjusted function points 31

Table 32 Total of all function points.

So the unadjusted FPs come to 31. Please note we refer to unadjusted

function points as we have not accounted for other variance factors of the
project (programmers leaving the job, languages, we, architecture, etc.).
In order to make it the adjusted function points, we have to calculate and
tabulate the GSCs and end up with the VAFs.

GSCs Value (0–5)

Data communications 1
Distributed data processing 1
Performance 4
Heavily used configuration 0
Transaction rate 1
Online data entry 0
End-user efficiency 4
Online update 0
Complex processing 0
Reusability 3
Installation ease 4
Operational ease 4
Multiple sites 0
Facilitate change 0
Total 22

Table 33 GSC
174 Software Testing Interview Questions

VAF 5 0.65 1 ((sum of all GSC factor)/100) 5 0.65 1 (22/100) 5 0.87.

This factor affects the whole FP so be very careful with this factor. So
now, calculating the
adjusted FPs 5 VAFs * total unadjusted. Now we know that the complete
FPs for the customer GUI is 27 FPs. Now calculating the efficiency factor,
we say that we will complete 3 FPs per day, that is, 9 working days. So, the
whole customer GUI is of 9 working days (note: do not consider Saturday
and Sunday as working days).

FPs 5 0.87 * 31 5 26.97 5 rounded to 27 FPs.

Considering the SDLC (System Development Life Cycle)

Before reading this section please refer to the different SDLC cycles in
previous chapters.
Quotations are heavily affected by which software lifecycle you follow
because deliverables change according to the SLDC model the project
manager chooses for the project. Example: For the waterfall model we will
have requirement documents, design documents, source code, and testing
plans. But for prototyping models, in addition to the documents above, we
will also need to deliver the rough prototype. For the build and fix model we
will not deliver any of the documents and the only document delivered will
be the source code. So according to the SDLC model deliverables change
and hence the quotation. We will divide the estimation across requirement,
design, implementation (coding), and testing. How the estimation divides
across all deliverables is all up to the project manager and his plans.

Phase Percentage distribution effort

Requirements 10% of total effort
Design Phase 20% of total effort
Coding 100% of total effort
Testing 10% of total effort

Table 34 Phase-wise distribution of effort

 Testing Estimation 175

The above sample is 100% of the distribution of effort across various phases.
But note that function points or any other estimation methodology only gives
you the total execution estimation. So you can see in the above distribution we
have given coding 100%. But as previously said it is up to the project manager
to change according to scenarios. From the above function point estimation
the estimation is 7 days. Let’s try to divide it across all phases.

Phase Percentage distribution effort Distribution of men/

days acrossphases
Requirements 10% of total effort 0.9 days
Design Phase 20% of total effort 1.8 days
Coding 60% of total effort 7 days
Testing 10% of total effort 0.9 days
Total 10.6 days

Table 35 Phase-wise effort distribution of man days

The table shows the division of project men/days across the project. Now
let’s put down the final quotation. But first just a small comment about test
cases.

The total number of Test Cases 5 (Function Points) raised to a power of 1.2.

(A) How can you estimate the number of acceptance

test cases in a project?

The number of acceptance test cases 5 1.2 * Function Points.

20–25% of the total effort can be allocated to the testing phase. Test cases
are non-deterministic. That means if the test passes it takes “X” amount of
time and if it does not then to amend it takes “Y” amount of time.

Final Quotation
One programmer will work on the project for $1,000 a month. So his 10.6 days
of salary comes to around $318.00. The following quotation format is a simple
176 Software Testing Interview Questions

format. Every company has its own quotation format. http://www.microsoft.

com/mac/resources/templates.aspx?pid5templates has a good collection of
decent templates.

XYZ SOFTWARE COMPANY

To:
TNC Limited, Western road 17, California.
Quotation number: 90
Date: 1/1/2004
Customer ID: Z- 20090DATAENTRY
Quantity Description Discount Taxable Total
1 Customer Project 0% 0% $318.00
Quotation Valid for 100 days
Goods delivery date within 25 days of half payment
Quotation prepared by: XYZ estimation department
Approved by: SPEG department XYZ

Table 36 Final bill

CustomerSampleFP.xls is provided on the CD which has all the estimation

details you need.

GSC Acceptance in Software industry

GSC factors have been always a controversial topic. Most software companies
do not use GSC, rather they baseline UAFP or construct their own table
depending on company project history. ISO has also adopted function points
as units of measurement, but they also use UAFP rather than AFP. Let’s do
a small experiment to view the relationships between FP, AFP, GSC, and
VAF. In this experiment we will assume UAFP 5 120 and then lot graph
with GSC in increments of five. So the formula is
VAF 5 0.65 1 (GS/100).
Here’s the table with the values in the formula plotted.
 Testing Estimation 177

FP GSC
78 0
84 5
90 10
96 15
102 20
108 25
114 30
120 35
126 40
132 45
138 50
144 55
150 60
156 65
162 70

Table 37 GSC acceptance

Figure 158 FP versus VAF

178 Software Testing Interview Questions

The following are the observations from the table and plot:

n  he graph is linear. It also captures that the nature of

T
complexity is linear.
n If the GSC value is zero then the VAF is 0.65. So the graph starts
from UAFP * 0.65.GSC 5 35 AFP 5 UAFP. So the VAF 5 1.
n When GSC , 35 then AFP . UAFP. That means complexity
decreases.
n When GSC . 35 then AFP . UAFP. That means complexity
increases.

Readers must be wondering why 0.65? There are 14 GSC factors from
zero to five. So the maximum value of VAF 5 0.65 1 (70/100) 5 1.35. So that
VAF does not have any affect, i.e., UAFP = FP, the VAF should be one. The
VAF will be one when the GSC is 35, i.e., half of 70. So, in order to complete
value “1”, value “0.65” is taken. Note that the value is 0.35 when the GSC is
35, to complete the one factor, “0.65” is required.
But the following is the main problem related to the GSCs. The GSCs
are applied throughout FPs even when some GSCs do not apply to whole
function points. Here’s the example to demonstrate the GSC problem.
Let’s take the 11th GSC factor “installation ease.” The project is of 100
UAFP and there is no consideration of the installation done previously by the
client so the 11th factor is zero.

GSC with installation easewith ZERO

GSC Value (0–5)

Data communications 1
Distributed data processing 1
Performance 4
Heavily used configuration 0
Transaction rate 1
Online data entry 0
End-user efficiency 4
Online update 0
Complex processing 0

continued
 Testing Estimation 179

GSC Value (0–5)

Reusability 3
Installation ease 0
Operational ease 4
Multiple sites 0
Facilitate change 0
Total 18

Table 39 GSC with installation ease zero

VAF 5 0.65 1 (18/100) 5 0.83. So the FPs 5 100 * 0.83 5 83 function

points. But later the client demanded a full-blown installation for the project
with auto updating when the new version is released. So we change the
installation ease to 5.

GSC with installation easewith 5

GSC Value (0–5)

Data communications 1
Distributed data processing 1
Performance 4
Heavily used configuration 0
Transaction rate 1
Online data entry 0
End-user efficiency 4
Online update 0
Complex processing 0
Reusability 3
Installation ease 5
Operational ease 4
Multiple sites 0
Facilitate change 0
Total 23

Table 39 GSC with installation ease 5

180 Software Testing Interview Questions

So VAFs 5 0.65 1 (23/100) 5 0.88 so the FPs 5 100 * 0.88 5 88. The
difference is only 5 FPs which in no way is a proper effort estimate. You cannot
make an auto update for a software version in 5 function points. Just think
about downloading the new version, deleting the old version, updating any
databases, structure changes, etc. So that’s the reason GSCs are not accepted
in the software industry. It is best to baseline your UAFPs.

Enhancement Function Points

Major software projects fail not because of programmers or project managers,
but due to changing needs of customers. Function point groups have come
out with a methodology called “Enhancement Function Points.”

The formula is as follows:

Formulae of EFP (Enhanced Function Points) 5 (ADD 1 CHGA) * VAFA 1

(DELFP) * VAFB

ADD: This is where new function points added. This value is achieved by
counting all new EPs (elementary processes) given in a change request.
CHGA: Function points which are affected due to CR. This value is achieved
by counting all DET, FTR, ILF, EI, EO, and EQ which are affected. Do not
count elements that are not affected.
VAFA: This is a VAF which occurs because of CR. The example previously
given was the desktop application that was changed to a web application so
the GSC factor is affected.
DELFP: When CR is used for removing some functionality this value is
counted. It’s rare that the customer removes functionalities, but if they ever
do the estimator has to take note of it by counting the deleted elementary
processes.
VAFB: Again removal affects value added factors.
Once we are through with calculating enhanced function points, it is
time to count the total function points of the application. The formula is as
follows:
 Testing Estimation 181

Total Function points 5 [UFPB 1 ADD 1 CHGA]2[CHGB2DELFP]

UFPB: Function points previously counted before enhancement.

ADD: Newly added functionality which leads to new function points after
enhancements.

CHGA: Changed function points counted after enhancements.

CHGB: Changed function points before enhancements.

DELFP: Deleted function points.

(A) Can you explain how TPA works?

There are three main elements which determine estimates for black box
testing: size, test strategy, and productivity. Using all three elements we can
determine the estimate for black box testing for a given project. Let’s take a
look at these elements.
Size: The most important aspect of estimating is definitely the size of the
project. The size of a project is mainly defined by the number of function
points. But a function point fails or pays the least attention to the following
factors:

n  omplexity: Complexity defines how many conditions exist

C
in function points identified during a project. More conditions
means more test cases which means more testing estimates.
For instance, the following is an application which takes the
customer name from the end user. If the customer name is
greater than 20 characters then the application should give
an error. So for this case there will be one test case. But let’s
say the end user also puts one more condition that if the user
inputs any invalid character then the application should give
an error. Because there is one more extra condition in the
project the complexity has increased, which also means that
we need to test two cases. The following illustrates this figure.
182 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 159 Complexity

n I nterfacing: How much does one function affect the other

part of the system? If a function is modified then accordingly
the other systems have to be tested as one function always
impacts another.
n Uniformity: How reusable is the application? It is important
to consider how many similar structured functions exist in
the system. It is important to consider the extent to which the
system allows testing with slight modifications.

Test strategy: Every project has certain requirements. The importance of all
these requirements also affects testing estimates. Any requirement importance
is from two perspectives: one is the user importance and the other is the user
usage. Depending on these two characteristics a requirement rating can be
generated and a strategy can be chalked out accordingly, which also means
that estimates vary accordingly.
Productivity: This is one more important aspect to be considered while
estimating black box testing. Productivity depends on many aspects. For
 Testing Estimation 183

instance, if your project has new testers your estimates shoot up because you
will need to train the new testers in terms of project and domain knowledge.
Productivity has two important aspects: environment and productivity
figures. Environmental factors define how much the environment affects a
project estimate. Environmental factors include aspects such as tools, test
environments, availability of testware, etc. While the productivity figures
depend on knowledge, how many senior people are on the team, etc.
The following diagram shows the different elements that constitute TPA
analysis as discussed.

Figure 160 TPA parameters

(A) How do you create an estimate for black box

testing?

Note: On the CD we have provided an Excel file called “FunctionPoints

(Accounting Application)”, which is used in this example to make TPA calculation
easier. We have also provided an explanation of how to use the Excel spread
sheet. The entire image snapshot which you will see in this answer is taken from
the “FunctionPoints file.”
184 Software Testing Interview Questions

In order to really answer this question let’s do one complete estimation

practically for a sample project. The following is a simple accounting
application developed for http://www.questpond.com to track its sales. The
first screen is a voucher entry screen. It’s a normal simple voucher entry screen
with extra functionality to print the voucher. The second screen is a master
screen for adding accounting codes.

Figure 161 Accounting application

The following are point requirements gathered from the end customer:
(1) T he account code entered in the voucher entry screen should be a valid
account code from the defined chart of accounts given by the customer.
(2) The user should be able to add, delete, and modify the account code
from the chart of the account master (this is what the second screen
defines).
(3) The user will not be able to delete the chart of account codes if he has
already entered transactions for in vouchers.
(4) The chart of account code master will consist of account codes and
descriptions of the account code.
(5) The account code cannot be greater than 10.
 Testing Estimation 185

Figure 162 Account code description

(6) T
 he voucher data entry screen consists of the debit account code, credit
account code, date of transaction, and amount.
(7) Once the user enters voucher data he should be able to print it in the
future at any time.
(8) The debit and credit account are compulsory.
(9) The amount value should not be negative.
(10) After pressing the submit button the value should be seen in the grid.
(11) The amount is compulsory and should be more than zero.
(12) The debit and credit account should be equal in value.
(13) Only numeric and non-negative values are allowed in the amount
field.
(14) Two types of entries are allowed: sales and commissions.
(15) Date, amount, and voucher number are compulsory.
(16) The voucher number should be in chronological order and the system
should auto increment the voucher number with every voucher
added.
(17) No entries are allowed for previous months.
186 Software Testing Interview Questions

(18) U
 sers should be able to access data from separate geographical locations.
For instance, if one user is working in India and the other in China,
then both users should be able to access each other’s data through their
respective location.
Now that we have all the requirements let’s try to estimate how we can
use TPA to do get the actual men days needed to complete a project. The
following figure shows our road map and how we will achieve using TPA.
There are in all ten steps needed to achieve our goal.

Figure 163 TPA steps.

 Testing Estimation 187

Step 1: Calculate function points

Note: You will understand this section if you have not read the function points
explanation given previously.

EI Calculation
The following are the EI entries for the accounting application. Currently,
we have two screens: one is the master screen and one is the voucher
transaction screen. In the description we have also described which DETs
we have considered. For the add voucher screen we have 7 DETs (note
the buttons are also counted as DETs) and for the account code master we
have 4 DETs.

Figure 164 EI for the accounting application

EIF
There are no EIFs in the system because we do not communicate with any
external application.

Figure 165 EIF for the accounting application

188 Software Testing Interview Questions

EO
EOs are nothing but complex reports. In our system we have three complex
reports: trial balance, profit and loss, and balance sheet. By default we have
assumed 20 fields which makes it a complex report (when we do estimations
sometimes assumptions are okay).

Figure 166 EO for the accounting application

EQ
EQs are nothing but simple output sent from the inside of the application to
the external world. For instance, a simple report is a typical type of EQ. In our
current accounting application we have one simple form that is the print voucher.
We have assumed 20 DETs so that we can move ahead with the calculation.

Figure 167 EQ for the accounting application

GSC Calculation
As said in the FPA tutorial previously given the GSC factor defines the other
factors of the projects which the FP counting does not accommodate. For the
accounting application we have kept all the GSC factors as 1 except for data
communications and performance. We have kept communication as 2 because,
one the requirement point is that we need application data to be accessed
from multiple centers which increases the data communication complexity
and also because the requirement of the end customer is that performance
should be mediumly good. The following figure shows the GSC entries.
 Testing Estimation 189

Figure 168 GSC factors for our accounting application

Total Calculation
Now that we have filled in all the details we need to calculate the total man days.
The following figure explains how the calculations are done. The first five rows,
i.e., ILF, EIF, EO, EQ, and EI, are nothing but the total of the individual entries.
A total unadjusted function point is the total of ILF 1 EIF 1 EO 1 EQ 1 EI.
We get the total adjusted function which is nothing but the total un-adjusted
function points multiplied by the GSC factors. Depending on the organizations
baseline we define how many FPs can be completed by a programmer in one
day. For instance, for the following accounting application we have 1.2 FPs per
day. Depending on the FPs per day we get the total man days. Once we have the
total man days we distribute these values across the phases. We have just found
the total execution time. So we have assigned the total man days to the execution
phase. From the execution phase and man days we distribute 20 percent to the
requirement phase, 20 percent to technical design, and 5 percent to testing.
190 Software Testing Interview Questions

(A) How do you estimate white box testing?

The testing estimates derived from function points are actually the estimates
for white box testing. So in the following figure the man days are actually the
estimates for white box testing of the project. It does not take into account
black box testing estimation.

(A) Is there a way to estimate acceptance test cases

in a system?

Total acceptance test cases 5 total adjusted function points multiplied by 1.2:
The total estimate for this project is 37.7 man days.

Figure 169 Total estimation of the accounting application

Now that we have completed the function point analysis for this project let’s
move on to the second step needed to calculate black box testing using TPA.
 Testing Estimation 191

Step 2: Calculate Df (Function-dependant factors)

Df is defined for each function point. So all the function point descriptions
as well as values are taken and the Dfs are calculated for, each of them. You
can see from the figure how every function point factor is taken, and how
the Df is calculated.

Figure 170 Df calculated

But we have still not seen how Df will be calculated. Df is calculated using
four inputs: user importance, usage intensity, interfacing, and complexity.
The following figure shows the different inputs in a pictorial manner. All four
factors are rated as low, normal, and high and assigned to each function are
factors derived from the function points. Let’s take a look at these factors.

Figure 171 Factors on which Dfs depend

192 Software Testing Interview Questions

User importance (Ue): How important is this function factor to the user
compared to other function factors? The following figure shows how they are
rated. Voucher data, print voucher, and add voucher are rated with high user
importance. Without these the user cannot work at all. Reports have been
rated low because they do not really stop the user from working. The chart
of accounts master is rated low because the master data is something which
is added at one time and can also be added from the back end.

Figure 172 User importance

Usage intensity (Uy): This factor tells how many users use the application
and how often. The following figure shows how we have assigned the values
to each function factor. Add voucher, Print Voucher, and voucher data are the
most used function factors. So they are rated high. All other function factors
are rated as low.

Figure 173 Usage intensity

 Testing Estimation 193

Interfacing (I): This factor defines how much impact this function
factor has on other parts of the system. But how do we now find the impact?
In TPA, the concept of LDS is used to determine the interfacing rating.
LDS stands for Logical Data Source. In our project we have two logical data
sources: one is voucher data and the other is account code data (i.e., chart
of accounts data). The following are the important points to be noted which
determine the interfacing:

n  e need to consider only functions which modify LDS. If

W
a function is not modifying LDS then its rating is Low by
default.
n To define LDS we need to define how many LDSs are
affected by the function and how many other functions access
the LDS. Other functions only need to access the function;
even if they do not modify it.

The following is the table which defines the complexity level according
to the number of LDSs and functions impacting on LDS.

Figure 174 LDS and the function concept

194 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 175 LDS ratings

So now depending on the two points defined above let’s try to find out the
interfacing value for our accounting project. As said previously we have two
functions which modify LDS in our project: one is the add voucher function
which affects the voucher data and the add account code which affects the
chart of accounts code (i.e., the accounts code master). The add voucher
function primarily affects voucher data LDFs. But other functions such as
reports and print also use the LDS. So in total there are five functions and
one LDS. Now looking at the number of LDSs and the number of functions
the impact complexity factor is Low.

Figure 176 Add voucher data

 Testing Estimation 195

The other function which modifies is the Add account code function. The
LDS affected is the chart of account code and the function which affects it is
the Add account code function. There are other functions that indirectly affect
this function, too. For instance, Report which needs to access account code,
Print voucher which uses the account code to print account description and
also the Add voucher function which uses the chart of accounts code LDS to
verify if the account code is correct. So we can see the look-up table and the
impact complexity factor is Average.

Figure 177 Add account code LDS and functions

The other function factors do not modify any data so we give them a Low
rating. The following is the interfacing complexity factors assigned.
196 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 178 Interfacing

Complexity (C): This factor defines how complex the algorithm for
the particular function factor is. Add voucher is the most complex function
in the project and it can have more than 11 conditions so we have rated the
complexity factor the highest. Reports are mildly complex and can be rated
as average in complexity. So as discussed we have assigned values accordingly
as shown in the figure.

Figure 179 Complexity

 Testing Estimation 197

Uniformity (U): This factor defines how reusable a system is. For
instance, if a test case written for one function can be applied again then
it affects the testing estimates accordingly. Currently, for this project, we
have taken a uniformity factor of 1. So, for example, if the customer had a
requirement to also update the accounts code then we could have used two
functions, Add voucher and Update voucher.

Figure 180 Uniformity

One we have all the five factors we apply the following formula to calculate
Df for all the function factors:
Df 5 [(Ue 1 Uy 1 I 1 C)/16] * U

Step 3: Calculate Qd
The third step is to calculate Qd. Qd, i.e, dynamic quality characteristics, have
two parts: explicit characteristics (Qde) and implicit characteristics (Qdi).
Qde has five important characteristics: Functionality, Security, Suitability,
Performance, and Portability. The following diagram shows how we rate those
ratings. Qdi defines the implicit characteristic part of the Qd. These are not
standard and vary from project to project. For instance, we have identified
for this accounting application four characteristics: user friendly, efficiency,
performance, and maintainability. From these four characteristics we assign
198 Software Testing Interview Questions

each 0.02 value. We can see from the following figure for user friendliness we
have assigned 0.02 value. In the Qde part we have given functionality normal
importance and performance as relatively unimportant but we do need to
account for them. Once we have Qde and Qdi then Qd 5 Qde 1 Qdi. For
this sample you can see that the total value of Qd is 1.17 (which is obtained
from 1.15 1 0.02).
Qd is calculated using the rating multiplied by the value. The following
table shows the rating and the actual value. So the 1.15 has come from the
following formula:
((5 * 0.75) 1 (3 * 0.05) 1 (4 * 0.10) 1 (3 * 0.10) 1 (3 * .10)) / 4

Figure 181 Qd ratings

Figure 182 Calculation of Qd (dynamic characteristics)

 Testing Estimation 199

Step 4: Calculate TPf for each function

In this step we calculate TPf (number of test points assigned to each function).
This is done by using three data values (FPf, Df, and Qd). The following is
the formula:
TPf 5 FPf * Df * Qd
Because we are using the Excel worksheet these calculations are done
automatically. The following figure shows how the TPf calculations are done.

Figure 183 Calculation of TPf

Step 5: Calculate static test points Qs

In this step we take into account the static quality characteristic of the project.
This is done by defining a checklist of properties and then assigning a value of
16 to those properties. For this project we have only considered easy-to-use
as a criteria and hence assigned 16 to it.
200 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 184 Qs calculation

Step 6: Calculate total number of test points

Now that we have TPfs for all function factors, FPs and Qs (static test point
data), it’s time to calculate the Tp (Total number of test points). The formula
is as follows:
Tp 5 sum(TPf) 1 (FP*Qs/500)
For the accounting system total Tp 5 71.21 (use a calculator if needed).
The following figure shows how the total Tp is derived.

Figure 185 Total number of test points

Step 7: Calculate Productivity/Skill factors

Productivity/skill factors show the number of test hours needed per test points.
It’s a measure of experience, knowledge, and expertise and a team’s ability to
perform. Productivity factors vary from project to project and also organization
to organization. For instance, if we have a project team with many seniors
then productivity increases. But if we have a new testing team productivity
decreases. The higher the productivity factor the higher the number of test
hours required.
 Testing Estimation 201

For this project we have good resources with great ability. So we have
entered a value of 1.50 which means we have high productivity.

Figure 186 Productivity factor/Skill factor

Step 8: Calculate environmental Factor (E)

The number of test hours for each test point is influenced not only by skills
but also by the environment in which those resources work. The following
figure shows the different environmental factors. You can also see the table
ratings for each environmental factor.

Figure 187 Testware

Figure 188 Test tools

202 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 189 Test environment

Figure 190 Test basis

Figure 191 Development testing

 Testing Estimation 203

Figure 192 Development environment

Step 9: Calculate primary test hours (PT)

Primary test hours are the product of test points, skill factors, and environmental
factors. The following formula shows the concept in more detail:
Primary test hours 5 TP * Skill factor * E
For the accounting application the total primary test hours is 101.73 as
shown in the figure.

Figure 193 Primary test hours

Step 10: Calculate total hours

Every process involves planning and management activities. We also need to
take into account these activities. Planning and management is affected by two
important concepts. Team size and management tools. So below are the rating
sheet for team size and management tools. These values are summed and the
percentage of this value is then multiplied with the primary test hours.
204 Software Testing Interview Questions

Figure 194 Number of test hours

Figure 195 Planning and control tools

Finally, we distribute this number across the phases. So the total black
box testing estimate for this project in man hours is 101.73 man hours, a
13-man day approximately.

Figure 196 Distribution over phases

Appendix A A bout the
CD-ROM

■ I ncluded on the CD-ROM are files related to topics about

software testing
■ See the “README” files for any specific information/system
requirements related to each file folder, but most files will run
on Windows XP or higher

205
Index

A C
Acceptance document, 25 Calculating variations, 109–112
Acceptance plan, 25–26 Calibration, 34–35
Acceptance test input criteria, 26 Test objectives, 34
Acceptance test plan, 32–34 Inventory, 34–35
Acceptance testing, 39, 46 Tracking matrix, 35–36
ADD, 180–181 Capability levels, 73–75
Ad hoc testing, 54 Capability level 0, 73
Alpha testing, 16–17 Capability level 1, 73–74
Application boundary, 149–150 Capability level 2, 74
Appraisal methods, 81–83 Capability level 3, 74
AutomatedQA, 128–145 Capability level 4, 74
Automation testing, 127–145 Capability level 5, 75
Automation tools, 128–129 Capability maturity model ­integration
(CMMI), 64–68, 70, 75–76,
77–80, 85–87
B Casual analysis resolution
Baselines, 30–31 (CAR), 89
Beta testing, 16–17, 20–21 Categories of defects, 4
Big-bang waterfall model, 39, 41–42 Central/project test plan, 32–34
Requirement stage, 41 Champions, 107–109
Design stage, 41 CHGA, 180–181
Build stage, 41 CMMI, 64–68, 70, 75–80, 85–87
Test stage, 41 Process areas of, 64
Deliver stage, 42 Systems engineering, 67
Black belts, 107–109 Software engineering, 67
Black box test cases, 36–37 Integrated product and process
Black box testing, 2–3, 147, 181–189 ­development (IPPD), 67
Creating an estimate for, 183–189 Software acquisition, 68
Boundary value, 49–51 Process management, 75
Boundary value analysis, 49–51 Project management, 76

207
208 Index

Engineering, 76 Defect seeding, 119–120

Support, 76 Defect spoilage, 125–126
CMMI model, 67–68, 70, 75–76, 77–80 Defects, 3
Level 1 and level 2, 77–78 DELFP, 180–181
Level 2 and level 3, 78–79 Deployment phase workbench, 16
Level 3 and level 4, 79 Design phase workbench, 16
Level 4 and level 5, 79–80 Design phase, defects in, 9
Coding phase, defects in, 9 Developers as testers, 47
Cohabiting software, 37 Development environment, 203
Common interview questions, xvi Development testing, 202
Complex processing, 161–162 Df calculation, 191–192
Complexity calculation, 196 Director, VII
Configuration management (CM), Distributed data processing, 157–158
30, 89–90 DMADV model, 105–107
Confirmation testing, 28–29 DMAIC, 105–107
Consultant costs, 62 Documentation, 46
Continuous models, 69–71 Documentation validation (VAL), 102
Continuous representation, 75 DPMO, 105
Cost elements in implementation DRE formula, 121–124
­process, 62
Cost of defects, 12–13
Coverage techniques, 29 E
Coverage tool, 29–30 EF calculation, 201
CTO, VII EI calculation, 187
Customer input, 25 EI rating table, 166
EIF calculation, 187
Elementary process, 150–151
D End-user efficiency, 159–160
Data communications, 156–157 Engineering process area, 76
Data element types (DETs), 154 Enhancement function points, 180
Data-driven testing, 145 Entry criteria, 40, 25
Decision analysis resolution (DAR), 90 Environment reality, 26–27
Decision coverage, 29 EO calculation, 188
Decision tables, 58–59 EO rating table, 166
Defect age, 125 EQ calculation, 188
Defect cascading, 17 EQ rating table, 167
Defect removal efficiency (DRE), Equivalence partitioning, 49–51
121–124 Evolutionary model, 39, 43
 Index 209

Execution phase workbench, 16 Inside test team, 47

Executive leaders, 107–109 Inspections, 27–28
Exit criteria, 25, 40 Institutionalization, 68–69
Exploratory testing, 54–55 Integrated product and process
External application boundary, ­development (IPPD), 67
149–150 Integrated project management (IPM),
External input (EI), 154–155 90–91
External inquiry (EQ), 155 Integrated supplier management (ISM),
External logical files (EIFs), 153 91–92
External output (EO), 155–156 Integrated teaming (IT), 92
Integration testing, 32–34
Integration tests, 39, 45
F Interfacing calculation, 193
Failure, 3 Internal application boundary,
File type references (FTRs), 154 149–150
FileSearch application, 129–136 Internal logical files (ILFs), 152
Fish bone diagram, 115–116 Interview rating sheet, xiii–xv
Formulae of EFP, 180–181 Inventories, 34
Function points, 148–167 Inventory tracking matrix, 35–36
Analysis of, 148–151 Ishikawa diagram, 115–116
Elements of, 152–167 Isolated test team, 47
Iterative model, 39, 43

G
General system characteristics (GSC), J
156, 166, 168, 176–180, 188–189 Junior engineer, ix
calculation of, 188–189 Junior tester, ix
Gradual implementation, 18
Gray box testing, 2–3
Green belts, 107–109 K
KPA, 88

I
ILF rating table, 167 L
Impact and probability rating, 23 Latent defects, 11
Impact ratings, 38 Launch strategies, 19
Implementation, 68–69 Load testing, 136–144
Incremental model, 39, 43 Logical data source (LDS), 193–195
210 Index

M P
Maintenance phase workbench, 16 Pair-wise defect, 56
Manual testing, 127–128 Parallel implementation, 19
Masked defects, 11 Path coverage, 29
Master black belts, 107–109 PDCA cycle, 1–2
Maturity levels, 63, 70–74 Performance, 46
Mean measurement, 110 Phased implementation, 18
Measurement and analysis (MA), 92 Phased waterfall model, 39, 42–43
Measuring defects, 118–119 Phase-wise distribution, 174–175
Measuring test effectiveness, 124–125 Pilot testing, 20–21
Median measurement, 110 Planning and control tools, 204
Metrics, 117 Positive testing, 54
Mode measurement, 112 Practice implementation indicators
Modern way of testing, 8–9 (PII), 84–85
Monkey testing, 53–54 Priority rating, 23
Priority set, 24
Probability of failure, 22
N Process and product quality assurance
Negative testing, 54 (PPQA), 98
Process area abbreviations, 77
Process areas, 73–75, 88–103
O Casual analysis resolution (CAR), 89
Online data entry, 159 Decision analysis resolution
Online updates, 161 (DAR), 90
Operational ease, 163–164 Integrated project management
Optimizing process, 75 (IPM), 90–91
Organizational environment for Integrated supplier management
­integration (OEI), 93 (ISM), 91–92
Organizational hierarchy, vii–viii Integrated teaming (IT), 92
Organizational innovation and Measurement and analysis (MA), 92
­deployment (OID), 93–94 Organizational environment for
Organizational process focus (OPF), ­integration (OEI), 93
94–95 Organizational innovation and
Organizational process performance ­deployment (OID), 93–94
(OPP), 95 Organizational process focus (OPF),
Organizational training (OT), 95–96 94–95
Orthogonal arrays, 56–57 Organizational process performance
Outsource, 47 (OPP), 95
 Index 211

Organizational training (OT), 95–96 Quality teams, vii

Product integration (PI), 96–97 Quantitative project management
Project monitoring and control (QPM), 98–99
(PMC), 97–98 Quotation, 175–176
Process and product quality
­assurance (PPQA), 98
Quantitative project management R
(QPM), 98–99 Random testing, 53–54
Requirements development (RD), Range measurement, 111
99–100 Record element type (RET), 153
Requirements management Regression testing, 28–29
(REQM), 100 Requirement document, 25
Risk management (RSKM), 100–101 Requirement traceability, 19–20
Technical solution (TS), 101–102 Requirements development (RD),
Supplier agreement management 99–100
(SAM), 101 Requirements management
Documentation validation (VAL), 102 (REQM), 100
Verification (VER), 103 Resume preparation guidelines, x–xii
Process areas in CMMI, 64, 70–71, 75 Reusability, 162
Process management, 75 Risk analysis, 21–23
Product integration (PI), 96–97 Risk management (RSKM), 100–101
Program manager, viii Risk mitigation process, 62
Project lead, ix Risk priority table, 23
Project management, 76 Rollout, 18–19
Project manager, vii, ix, 25
Project monitoring and control (PMC),
97–98 S
Project plan, 25 Salary, 62
Project teams, vii Salary negotiation, xii–xiii
Project test manager, x SCAMPI process, 81–82
PT calculation, 203 Class a, 81
Class b, 81
Class c, 81
Q Semi-random test cases, 55
QA/QC, 47 Senior software engineer, ix
Qd calculation, 197–198 Senior tester, ix
Qs calculation, 199–200 Severity ratings, 59–60
212 Index

SG2, 85 T
SGI, 85 Table-driven testing, 145–146
Six sigma, 105–112 Tailoring, 65, 74
Key players, 107–109 TC1, 49–51
Variations in, 109–112 TC2, 49–51
Software acquisition, 68 TC3, 49–51
Software development lifecycle, TC4, 49–51
30–31, 33–34, 39–43 Team leader tester, ix–x
Software engineer, ix Technical solution (TS), 101–102
Software engineering, 67 Test basis, 202
Software process, 61–62 Test complete project explorer,
Software testing teams, 47–48 131–136, 138–144
Isolated test team, 47 Test documents across phases, 33–34
Outsource, 47 Test environment, 202
Inside test team, 47 Test log, 38–39
Developers as testers, 47 Test objectives, 34
QA/QC, 47 Test phases, 26–27
Spiral model, 39, 43 Test plan documents, 32–33
Spoilage formula, 126 Central/project test plan, 32–34
SQA, x Acceptance test plan, 32–34
Staged models, 70–73 System test plan, 32–34
Staging, 75 Integration testing, 32–34
Standard CMMI appraisal method for Unit testing, 32–34
process improvement, 81–82 Test strategy, 182
Standard deviation formula, Test tools, 201
113–115 Testers, vii
Standard deviations, 112–113 Testing analysis and design, 24, 34
State transition diagrams, 52–53 Testing cost curve, 6
Statement coverage, 29 Testing phase workbench, 16
Supplier agreement management Testing policy, 6–7
(SAM), 71, 85–86, 101 Testware, 201
Support process area, 76 Tool costs, 62
System development lifecycle, 174 TPA, 147–148, 181–186, 193
System test plan, 32–34 Analysis, 147–148
System testing, 39, 45–46, 123 Parameters, 183
Systems engineering, 67 TPf calculation, 199
 Index 213

TPfs calculation, 200 V-model, 39, 43–44

Traditional way of testing, 8 Requirement stage, 44
Training costs, 62 Acceptance stage, 44
Transaction rate, 159 Specification stage, 44
Types of verifications, 27–28 Implement stage, 44
Inspections, 27–28
Walk-throughs, 27–28
W
Walk-throughs, 27–28
U Waterfall model, 39, 41–42
Ue calculation, 192 Requirement stage, 41
UFPB, 180–181 Design stage, 41
Uniformity calculation, 197 Build stage, 41
Unit testing, 32–34, 39, 45, 124 Test stage, 41
Usability testing, 18 Deliver stage, 42
Usage intensity, 192 White box testing, 2–3, 36–37, 190–204
User importance, 192 Creating an estimate for, 190–204
User input, 10–11 Workbench, 13–16
Uy calculation, 192 Design phase workbench, 16
Execution phase workbench, 16
Testing phase workbench, 16
V Deployment phase workbench, 16
VAFA, 180–181 Maintenance phase workbench, 16
VAFB, 180–181
Validation, 4
Verification (VER), 4–5, 103
Verifying authenticity, 80
Instruments, 80
Interview, 80
Documents, 80