Task: Develop Test Cases
This task describes how to develop the test cases and test data for the requirements to be tested.
Disciplines: Test
Purpose

The purpose of this task is to:

  • Identify various sources for your test cases
  • Generate test cases from use case scenarios
  • Identify sources of test data needed to run the test case
Relationships
Steps
Examine the Requirements to Be Tested
Analyze the requirements to be tested with a focus on scenarios, and create at least one test case for each scenario. Ensure that the right number of scenarios have been addressed, and that edge conditions have been considered.
Consider Test Ideas
Review the Test-ideas List. Ensure that all relevant test-ideas have been reviewed. If you have prioritized your list, begin test case creation from the highest priority test ideas. For more information on Test Ideas, see Concept: Test-Ideas List.
Outline the Test Case

Write the name, purpose, and steps for the test case. Use a template to get you started (and for consistency reasons).

Depending on the complexity of the test and the project culture, it may be appropriate to realize the test directly as a Test Script, an approach that you should consider if it is acceptable for you not to create Test Case artifacts. If you take this approach, be sure to liberally comment your Test Scripts with useful information explaining why the test is useful. Use these comments to act as an informal, in-line Test Case.

Identify Test Data
Walk through the steps of a test case. Note where data input or output is needed to run the test case. For more information on test data selection, see Checklist: Test Data.
Maintain traceability relationships

Using the Traceability requirements for the project, update the traceability relationships as required.

Evaluate and Verify Your Results

Ensure that:

  • The prioritized use-case scenarios from your use case model have been used to generate test cases
  • Each test case has an outline
  • Sources other than use cases have been examined as prospective sources of test cases
  • Test data has been identified and ideally typed
  • Sources of test cases have been captured in a test-ideas list
  • For more information on test case creation verification, see Checklist: Test Case.
More Information