2.5 Testing
2.5.1 Understand reasons for testing individual components
Software
Software is tested to ensure it performs as expected, is free from errors,
and meets user requirements before being integrated into a full solution.
Hardware
Hardware testing ensures components function correctly and are compatible
with other system parts, reducing the risk of faults after deployment.
Data
Data testing confirms that inputs, processing, and outputs are accurate,
reliable, and suitable for use within the system.
Interfaces
Interfaces are tested to ensure that different components can communicate
correctly, preventing integration and compatibility issues.
Resulting Service (Final Product)
The final service is tested to confirm that all components work together
effectively and meet user expectations in a real‑world environment.
2.5.2 Know testing methods, their purpose, benefits, drawbacks and use
Concept Testing
Concept testing evaluates ideas early to confirm feasibility before development begins.
Unit Testing
Unit testing checks individual components to ensure they function correctly in isolation.
Boundary Testing
Boundary testing checks values at the limits of acceptable input ranges.
Integration Testing
Integration testing checks how components work together after being combined.
Performance Testing
Performance testing assesses system speed, responsiveness, and stability.
System Testing
System testing evaluates the complete system against requirements.
Acceptance Testing
Acceptance testing confirms the system meets user and business needs.
Usability Testing
Usability testing checks how easy the system is for users to operate.
Regression Testing
Regression testing ensures updates do not break existing functionality.
Load / Stress Testing
Load and stress testing measure system behaviour under high demand.
Closed Box Testing
Closed box testing focuses on inputs and outputs without viewing internal code.
Open Box Testing
Open box testing examines internal code and logic during testing.
2.5.3 Be able to use testing methods
Using Testing Methods
Selecting and applying suitable testing methods helps identify faults,
validate functionality, and ensure systems meet requirements.
2.5.4 Purpose of automation methods
Macros
Macros automate repetitive tasks to improve testing speed and consistency.
Scripts
Scripts automate complex testing processes across systems and environments.
2.5.5 Know types of test data
Valid Data
Valid data meets all rules and should be processed successfully.
Invalid Data
Invalid data breaks rules and should be rejected.
Boundary Data
Boundary data tests limits of acceptable values.
Erroneous Data
Erroneous data is unexpected or incorrect input.
2.5.7 Know the steps and structure of a test plan
Test Plan Structure
A test plan identifies tests to be carried out, explains their purpose,
specifies test data, defines expected results,
and records actual results for evaluation.
2.5.8 Methods to check believability and accuracy of results
Checking Accuracy and Believability
Accuracy checks include logical reasoning, verifying all relevant inputs,
ensuring results make sense, review by subject matter experts,
and validation against test plans.