Test Plan
Date:
Test Plan – A Brief Overview
A Test Plan is a detailed document that outlines the strategy, scope, approach, resources, and schedule for the testing activities of a project. Think of it as a roadmap that guides the testing process—what to test, how to test, who will test, and when.
Key Elements of a Test Plan
1. Test Objectives
Defines what needs to be tested and the purpose behind it.
Example: Validate the login functionality across different browsers and devices.
2. Scope of Testing
Outlines what is in-scope and out-of-scope for testing.
Example: UPI payments will be tested, but net banking will not.
3. Test Strategy / Approach
Describes the overall approach to testing, including the types of testing involved.
Includes: functional, API, UI, database, regression, etc.
4. Test Environment
Lists the hardware, software, network, and tools needed to execute the tests.
Example: Android/iOS devices, Postman, test environment URLs.
5. Test Deliverables
Defines the documents and artifacts to be produced during the testing cycle.
Includes: test cases, test data, bug reports, test summary.
6. Roles and Responsibilities
Specifies who is responsible for different tasks in the testing process.
Example: Tester prepares test cases, QA lead reviews them.
7. Schedule and Milestones
Highlights key dates and timelines for each phase of testing.
Example: Test case writing: 1st–5th June, Execution: 6th–10th June.
8. Entry and Exit Criteria
Defines the conditions to begin and end testing activities.
Entry: Code freeze done. Exit: All critical bugs fixed and retested.
9. Risks and Mitigation Plans
Lists potential risks and how they will be handled.
Example: Risk: Test data delay. Mitigation: Use mock data for early testing.
Importance of a Test Plan
- Ensures alignment within the team
- Minimizes surprises during testing
- Helps in tracking and reporting progress
- Acts as a reference for stakeholders throughout the project
Real-World Example
Testing a mobile banking app’s UPI feature?
Your test plan will define which flows to test (send, receive), on which devices, using which data, who’s testing, and how success is measured.
Need a test plan template or want this customized for a fintech or web app project? Let me know!