Testing models: how did you ever live without them?

Typically, testing needs proper documentation explaining where, what and how to test. If testing of standard software needs checklists or test scenarios, OSS/BSS testing definitely requires a testing model.

What is a testing model?

It is a set of all possible scenarios connected with business requirements and stored in test-tracking systems. In the testing model test, scenarios are usually described best of all. They include all the necessary scripts, links to the documents and requirements.

Naturally, testing won’t go through absolutely all tests every time; it will only go through those that are required for that particular stage.

What provides such a detailed testing model?

First, requirements get changed when new functionality is implemented. Specific requirements and test cases allow organizations to easily define what they need to test in the near term and what to leave for the regression. Beginning this process with this step makes it less likely to miss a defect and significantly saves time needed to prepare for the test.

Second, the test cases can be used to train new engineers who need to support the billing system. Executing test cases with good content extends their knowledge of the system and its business processes.

Third, during the testing process, the cases described in detail can be performed not only by test engineers, but also by CSRs. When simultaneously developing OSS/BSS and executing test cases, it also aids in saving time and budget.

No matter how good the system is documented, organizations will benefit even more from knowledge and documentation of testing model implementations. Stay tuned: I’ll discuss what tools are most effective in my next article.