Testing Matrix
A Testing Matrix is a structured, tabular document used to plan and track the scope of testing activities. It provides a visual, at-a-glance view of the entire testing effort by mapping test cases to specific requirements, functionalities, test data, and execution environments. By using a testing matrix, teams can ensure that every aspect of the software is being covered, helping to identify gaps in testing and prevent redundant effort.
How a Testing Matrix Is Used
A testing matrix typically includes columns for key information, such as:
- Test Case ID: The unique identifier for a specific test.
- Requirement/Feature: The software requirement or feature that the test case is validating.
- Test Scenario: A high-level description of what is being tested.
- Test Data: The specific data needed to run the test.
- Execution Environment: The platform or configuration on which the test will be run (e.g., browser, operating system).
- Test Status: The result of the test (e.g., Passed, Failed, Blocked).
Example: A quality assurance team is testing a new website login page. They create a testing matrix to track their efforts. The matrix would have a row for each test case, such as:
- Test Case ID: TC-Login-001
- Requirement: User can log in with a valid username and password.
- Test Scenario: Successful login
- Test Data: [email protected], P@ssword123!
- Execution Environment: Chrome, Firefox, Safari
- Test Status: Passed on all three environments.
This matrix allows the team to clearly see what has been tested and confirm that all critical scenarios have been validated across the required environments.