Software Testing Myths and Facts

Just as every field has its myths, so does the field of Software Testing. Software testing myths have arisen primarily due to the following:

• Lack of authoritative facts.
• Evolving nature of the industry.
• General flaws in human logic.

Some of the myths are explained below, along with their related facts:

1. MYTH: Quality Control = Testing.
• FACT: Testing is just one component of software quality control. Quality Control includes other activities such as Reviews.
2. MYTH: The objective of Testing is to ensure a 100% defect- free product.
• FACT: The objective of testing is to uncover as many defects as possible. Identifying all defects and getting rid of them is impossible.
3. MYTH: Testing is easy.
• FACT: Testing can be difficult and challenging (sometimes, even more so than coding).
4. MYTH: Anyone can test.
• FACT: Testing is a rigorous discipline and requires many kinds of skills.
5. MYTH: There is no creativity in testing.
• FACT: Creativity can be applied when formulating test approaches, when designing tests, and even when executing tests.
6. MYTH: Automated testing eliminates the need for manual testing.
• FACT: 100% test automation cannot be achieved. Manual Testing, to some level, is always necessary.
7. MYTH: When a defect slips, it is the fault of the Testers.
• FACT: Quality is the responsibility of all members/stakeholders, including developers, of a project.
8. MYTH: Software Testing does not offer opportunities for career growth.
• FACT: Gone are the days when users had to accept whatever product was dished to them; no matter what the quality. With the abundance of competing software and increasingly demanding users, the need for software testers to ensure high quality will continue to grow.