Test Execution Best Practices & Planning Guide

Test Run Planning

Create Focused Test Runs

  • Group test cases by release, sprint, or feature
  • Keep test runs manageable in size (50-200 test cases)
  • Use releases to organize multiple test runs over time

Release Management

  • Create releases for each project version or milestone
  • Set realistic start and end dates
  • Update release status as work progresses
  • Use release statuses appropriately:
    • Draft: Planning phase
    • Not Started: Ready but not begun
    • In Progress: Active testing
    • Completed: Testing finished

Test Case Selection

  • Include smoke tests in every test run
  • Add regression tests for modified features
  • Include new feature tests for the current release
  • Balance coverage with execution time

Execution Workflow

Assignment Strategy

  • Assign test cases based on tester expertise
  • Distribute workload evenly across team members
  • Assign related test cases to the same tester when possible
  • Use unassigned test cases for flexible team execution

Status Management

  • Update test case status promptly after execution
  • Use “Blocked” status when external dependencies prevent execution
  • Mark as “Skipped” only when intentionally omitted
  • Keep “Not Executed” status for pending work

Result Documentation

  • Add detailed notes when tests fail
  • Include screenshots or attachments for failures
  • Document any deviations from expected behavior
  • Note environment or configuration details if relevant

Progress Tracking

  • Monitor test run completion regularly
  • Address blocked test cases quickly
  • Reassign test cases if team members are unavailable
  • Update stakeholders on execution progress

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