In the context of testing strategy, what do 'entry and exit criteria' refer to?

Entry and exit criteria are essential components of a testing strategy as they define specific conditions that must be met before a testing phase can begin and the conditions that indicate when that phase is complete.

Entry criteria establish the prerequisites that must be satisfied to ensure that testing can start effectively. This can include the availability of test environments, the completion of necessary documentation, and the readiness of test data. By ensuring that these conditions are met, testers can proceed confidently, knowing that they have everything required for a successful testing effort.

Exit criteria, on the other hand, outline the conditions that must be fulfilled to determine that testing can be considered complete. This may involve achieving a certain level of test coverage, successfully passing pre-defined test cases, or sufficient defect resolution. These criteria are critical for managing project quality and ensuring that the software is ready for release.

Thus, the concept of entry and exit criteria is vital in structuring the testing process, providing clear guidelines for both starting and concluding testing phases while ensuring a systematic approach to ensuring quality.