Why defect prevention is crucial to the software process

In this article we are going to discuss about what is defect detection and defect prevention. We will also throw some light on the role of a Software Tester to achieve the best use of these techniques.

A Software Defect is the deviation between the expected and actual result. Testing team applies number of methods and testing types may be applied to detect defects during software testing life-cycle. Defect Prevention is a process to identify the root cause of defects and establish the process to avoid defects surfacing.

By focusing on Defect Prevention, we can work on improving the quality of the Software from very earlier stage. Testers review requirement specification documents, try to understand the requirement from end user perspective. During this activity lots of misleading requirements are cleared. This stage is not only for Software Testers. Rather than wait for a postmortem on the project, which has frequently been the case, DPP is incorporated into every sub-process and phase of that project.

This approach ensures that meaningful discussion takes place when it is fresh in everyone's mind. It focuses on defect- related actions and process-oriented preventive actions, which is very important.

Through the action teams and action tracking tools and methodology, DPP provides a systematic, objective, data-based mechanism for action implementation. It is a bottoms-up approach; causal analysis meetings are conducted by developers without management interference. However, the process requires management support and direct participation via the action teams. Causal analysis of defects along with actions aimed at eliminating the cause of defects are credited as the key factors in these successes Mays et al.

Indeed, the element of defect prevention has been incorporated as one of the "imperatives" of the software development process at IBM. Other companies, especially those in the software industry, have also begun to implement the process. Get the best of Professional QA in your inbox. Toggle navigation. Home Contact Us About Us. Defect Analysis and Prevention Method Oct 10, Give your feedback!

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