Hypothesis Based Testing is a newfound, unique, scientific and private methodology that helps the testers deliver clean software since it’s defect centric and adapts a top-quality growth model. Sounds too good to be true? Keep reading.

How does it differ from traditional testing?

Unlike traditional test methodologies and issue tracking tools that specialise in defining and implementing activities and tools which will help discover potential defects within the software, Hypothesis Based Testing focuses on identifying and defining the foremost probable defects first.

Once the potential defects are identified by issue tracking tools, testing activities to make sure that these defects are uncovered and glued are administered. In the case of traditional test methodologies, the last word discovery of defects still depends upon the experience of the tester. But with HBT, that’s not the case.

So, while traditional testing:

  • focuses on testing activities,
  • is driven by processes,
  • is powered by testing tools/utilities and
  • depends tons on the tester’s experience to get the desired result of finding defects;

When it involves HBT,

  • the primarily goal is on the practice of finding defects first and
  • then, on the activities that require administering to succeed in that goal.

How does HBT work?

Take any software, the below are the rules on how HBT actually is implemented.

  • First, identify the defects which will occur within the software. Define the cleanliness criteria for the software.
  • Then define the places, loops or functionalities where the defects are often found.
  • Also, write the opposite conditions which will cause the defect to occur.
  • Based on the above, create a test plan, test strategy and test cases.
  • Choose a tool that will assist you with defect detection. If possible, choose a wise test automation tool.
  • Perform the test cases and record the results.
  • Based on the results, certify the cleanliness of the software.
  • Redo the HBT and fix the code until the software is defect-free.

Advantages of HBT

  • Keeping defects in mind, the probability of discovery of defects is quite high as testing activities formulate and continue.
  • Goal-focused evaluation of the software is tailored.
  • Higher and wider test coverage is feasible.
  • The effort is often prioritized with reference to product features by concentrating on the foremost critical areas of the software first.
  • It is possible to define an objective quality growth model.
  • The overall test assessment and software analysis is accelerated.
  • The overall validation strategy is effective.
  • The amount of defect leakage is reduced since most of the defects are found at the first/initial stage itself.
  • Minimal/No defects are found within the production/post-production cycle.
  • The overall productivity is boosted since HBT helps in selecting an appropriate tool.
  • HBT is often customized as per individual project requirements.

Summary

In short, HBT consists of the below six stages –

Stage 1 – Understand the expectations with reference to the software/product by grasping its features, attributes, business criticality etc. Align the expectations and objectives with business goals.

Stage 2 – Understand the context of testing in terms of project requirements and therefore the cleanliness criteria.

Stage 3 – Formulate an appropriate hypothesis and potential defects catalogue.

Stage 4 – Create proof with test strategy, test design and requirements traceability matrix. Also, define measurements and a clear-cut plan of action.

Stage 5– Identify and choose appropriate tools. Perform tooling benefit analysis.

Stage 6 – Assess the software package and perform analysis supported testing results. perform test management and defect management activities.

Thus, HBT is effectively Defect Centric Testing which may help the test team prioritize the wants and utilize the available resources in the most appropriate and beneficial manner.