Supportsoft Glossary

How Test Plans Document QA Strategy and Scenarios

The test plan consists of a single document that contains everything you need to know about testing a software application, including its overall testing strategy, scope, objectives, and resources. Therefore, a test plan is used to guide the QA teams by determining what should be tested, how it will be tested, who will conduct that testing, and what success means. The actual components of a good test plan should include test scenario examples, test deliverables, planned completion dates, entry/exit criteria, risk review, and dependencies.

The documentation of these elements via a test plan creates a common reference point between QA teams, developers, and other stakeholders. It will provide insight into testing priorities, allow for resource allocation based on availability and need, and clarify any uncertainties that may exist in testing. The need for the test plan is especially critical in larger, more complex systems where numerous combinations of functionality, integration, and environments need to be validated. Additionally, the test plan assists in "tracing" the test scenarios back to the requirements.

While creating a test plan acts as a guide for testing teams, it also allows for greater uniformity and accountability during the course of the testing life cycle. Regardless of whether the tests are performed using manual or automated methods, there is a systematic approach that ensures consistent and reliable results.