The ISO/IEC/IEEE 29119-2 standard is part of the ISO/IEC/IEEE 29119 series, which provides an internationally agreed-upon set of standards for software testing. Specifically, ISO/IEC/IEEE 29119-2 focuses on the test process.

Key Aspects of ISO/IEC/IEEE 29119-2

  1. Scope:
    • The standard defines a generic test process model for software testing. It provides a framework that can be adapted to various software development and maintenance methodologies.
  2. Purpose:
    • It aims to ensure consistency and quality in the testing process across different projects and organizations.
    • The standard helps in establishing a common understanding and language for software testing activities.
  3. Structure of the Test Process:
    • The test process defined in ISO/IEC/IEEE 29119-2 includes several key activities and processes, which are categorized into three main levels:

Test Process Levels

  1. Organizational Test Process:
    • Purpose: Establishes the testing policies and strategies at the organizational level.
    • Activities:
      • Develop and maintain the organization’s testing policies.
      • Define the organizational test strategy.
      • Plan for the resources and infrastructure required for testing activities.
      • Provide training and support for test personnel.
  2. Test Management Process:
    • Purpose: Manages the testing activities for individual projects.
    • Activities:
      • Test Planning: Define the scope, approach, resources, and schedule for testing activities in the project.
      • Test Monitoring and Control: Track the progress of testing activities and make necessary adjustments to ensure objectives are met.
      • Test Completion: Ensure all planned tests are executed, and results are documented. Assess if exit criteria are met and report findings.
  3. Dynamic Test Process:
    • Purpose: Conduct the actual testing activities, including design, execution, and evaluation of tests.
    • Activities:
      • Test Design and Implementation: Develop test cases, test scripts, and test data. Prepare the test environment.
      • Test Execution: Execute test cases, log results, and report defects.
      • Test Result Evaluation: Analyze test results to determine if the software meets the specified requirements.
      • Test Reporting: Document and communicate the test results to stakeholders.

Benefits of ISO/IEC/IEEE 29119-2

  1. Standardization:
    • Provides a standardized approach to software testing, promoting consistency and quality across different projects and organizations.
  2. Improved Communication:
    • Establishes a common language and understanding of testing activities, improving communication among stakeholders.
  3. Enhanced Quality:
    • Ensures a systematic and structured approach to testing, leading to higher quality software products.
  4. Compliance:
    • Helps organizations comply with industry regulations and standards, which can be crucial for certain sectors.

Conclusion

ISO/IEC/IEEE 29119-2 is a comprehensive standard that defines a generic test process model for software testing. It provides guidelines for establishing and managing testing activities at both organizational and project levels, ensuring consistency, quality, and compliance. By following this standard, organizations can improve their testing practices and deliver higher-quality software products.