STARWEST 2008 - Software Testing Conference

When you think of automated testing, you usually think of computer software executing unattended tests. When you think of manual testing, you think of a human being executing tests without the aid of software. Instead of thinking of tests as either automated or manual, Jonathan Kohl explores ways you can blend the two.

To apply model-based testing (MBT) to many different applications, simply learning the high-level principles is not enough. You need extra guidance and practice to help orient testers and developers to begin using models for testing. Many people attempting MBT, confused about programming around observation and control, try to duplicate the underlying system functionality in models. Keith Stobie shows you real-world MBT case studies to illustrate MBT ideas you can incorporate into your own practices.

Our testing is only as good as our thinking—and all too often we are hampered by limiting ideas, poor communication, and pre-set roles and responsibilities. Based on the work of Edward de Bono, the Six Thinking Hats for software testers have helped Julian, and numerous others, work more effectively as testers and managers. The concepts are simple and easy to learn. For instance, we can use these concepts as individuals performing reviews and while testing and in groups during team meetings.

Classification trees are a structured, visual approach to identify and categorize equivalence class partitions for test objects. They enable testers to create better test cases faster. Classification trees visually document test requirements to make them easy to create and comprehend. Julie Gardiner explains this powerful technique and how it helps all stakeholders understand exactly what is involved in testing and offers an easier way to validate test designs.