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Test Estimation Techniques

Test estimation techniques predict the effort, time, and cost for testing activities in software projects, aiding in planning and resource allocation. Common methods include Experience-Based Estimation, Work Breakdown Structure, Delphi Technique, Three-Point Estimation, Function Point Analysis, and others, each with specific use cases and advantages. Accurate estimation requires considering risks, non-testing activities, and updating estimates as more information becomes available.

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12 views3 pages

Test Estimation Techniques

Test estimation techniques predict the effort, time, and cost for testing activities in software projects, aiding in planning and resource allocation. Common methods include Experience-Based Estimation, Work Breakdown Structure, Delphi Technique, Three-Point Estimation, Function Point Analysis, and others, each with specific use cases and advantages. Accurate estimation requires considering risks, non-testing activities, and updating estimates as more information becomes available.

Uploaded by

anup
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
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Test Estimation Techniques

explain test estimation tehniques

Test estimation is the process of predicting the effort, time, and cost required to complete testing activities in a
software project. It helps in planning, resource allocation, and setting realistic deadlines. Several techniques are
used for test estimation, and each has its own advantages depending on the project context.

🔑 Common Test Estimation Techniques

1. Experience-Based Estimation
Also known as expert judgment.

How it works: Estimators (test leads, managers) use their past experience on similar projects to estimate.

When to use: When historical data is available and estimators have domain knowledge.

Example: "In the last project of similar size, testing took 30 days with 2 testers. So, we'll estimate the same
here."

2. Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)


How it works: Break the testing tasks into smaller sub-tasks (test case design, execution, defect reporting, etc.),
estimate each, and sum them up.

When to use: When project requirements and scope are clear.

Advantages: More accurate as it considers each activity separately.

Example:

Test planning – 2 days

Test case writing – 5 days

Test execution – 10 days

Bug verification – 3 days

Total = 20 days

3. Delphi Technique
How it works: A group of experts anonymously estimate tasks. The estimates are averaged or discussed
iteratively until consensus is reached.

When to use: When unbiased group-based estimation is needed.

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Advantages: Reduces individual bias.

4. Three-Point Estimation
Based on PERT (Program Evaluation Review Technique).

How it works:

O (Optimistic): Best case

M (Most likely): Realistic case

P (Pessimistic): Worst case

Formula:

O + 4M + P
Estimate =
6
​

When to use: When there is uncertainty and risk in tasks.

Example:

O = 2 days, M = 4 days, P = 8 days

Estimate = (2 + 4×4 + 8) / 6 = 4.33 days

5. Function Point / Test Point Analysis


How it works: Measures complexity using function points (FP) based on inputs, outputs, interfaces, etc. Test
points are derived from FPs.

When to use: In large projects with well-defined functional requirements.

Needs: Expertise in function point analysis.

6. Percentage of Development Effort


How it works: Testing effort is estimated as a percentage of the total development effort (commonly 25% to
40%).

When to use: In early project stages where only rough estimates are possible.

7. Use-Case Point Method


How it works: Estimates are based on the number and complexity of use cases in the system.

When to use: When requirements are use-case driven.

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8. Top-Down vs Bottom-Up Estimation
Top-Down: Start with a high-level estimate and break down into tasks.

Bottom-Up: Estimate each task individually and sum them up.

✅ Tips for Accurate Estimation


Include buffer for risks and rework.

Consider non-testing activities (meetings, reporting, training).

Update estimates as more information becomes available.

Factor in team experience, tools used, and testing environment setup.

Would you like real-life examples or templates for any of these methods?

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