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What is STLC?

Published in Software Testing 3 mins read

The Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC) is a structured process used in software development to ensure quality standards are met through systematic testing phases.

Understanding the Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC)

The STLC is not just about finding bugs; it's about planning, designing, and executing tests to verify that the software meets the requirements and user expectations. It's a crucial component of the overall software development process, involving multiple stages that may be iterated until the product is suitable for release.

Key Aspects of STLC

  • Systematic Approach: STLC provides a clear, step-by-step method for testing, making the process more efficient and less prone to errors.

  • Quality Assurance: Its main purpose is to ensure that the final product meets the required quality benchmarks.

  • Iterative Process: The phases of STLC can be repeated multiple times as the product evolves through development.

  • Phases of STLC

    The STLC consists of several distinct phases. While the specific phases can vary between organizations, they typically include the following:

    1. Requirement Analysis: Understanding and documenting what the software should do.
    2. Test Planning: Defining the scope, objectives, and resources for testing.
    3. Test Case Development: Creating detailed test cases based on requirements.
    4. Test Environment Setup: Preparing the hardware, software, and network configurations for testing.
    5. Test Execution: Running the tests and documenting the results.
    6. Test Reporting: Analyzing the test results and creating reports for stakeholders.
    7. Test Closure: Documenting lessons learned and finalizing the testing process.

Why is STLC Important?

The STLC is an essential framework because it:

  • Reduces Bugs: Helps identify and fix defects early in the development cycle, reducing the cost of addressing issues later.
  • Improves Quality: Ensures a better product by making sure all requirements are met.
  • Saves Time and Money: Helps prevent costly fixes after the product is deployed.
  • Enhances User Experience: Contributes to a more reliable and enjoyable product.

STLC Example

Imagine you are testing a new mobile banking app:

  1. During requirement analysis, you understand the app should allow transfers, balance checks, and bill payments.
  2. In test planning, you decide to use both automated and manual testing.
  3. In test case development, you create a test for each function such as "transfer money between accounts using the app."
  4. For the test environment, you simulate network conditions and test it on different devices.
  5. During test execution, you run the tests and find that transfers are delayed.
  6. In test reporting, you document the defect and suggest a fix.
  7. Finally, in test closure, you discuss your learnings with the team.

Conclusion

The STLC is a fundamental process for software testing, focusing on quality assurance through defined phases that help detect and resolve software issues. It ensures the final product meets the required standards and user expectations.